Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 31-01-2025

No. 107701

PM Phillips: From coastland to hinterland: Budget 2025 bridges

development gaps

‘Clueless and confused’

- Dr. Singh hammers opposition for ‘sordid and disgraceful’ history of corruption, failure to deliver on commitments - exposes ‘unrealistic, whimsical and fanciful promises’ that amount to nearly a trillion dollars without any allocation for critical sectors

President Ali offers condolences following tragic Washington DC air collision

IN the wake of the devastating midair collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, DC, Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the United States.

The tragic incident, which occurred on Wednesday evening, resulted in the presumed loss of all 67 lives aboard both aircraft.

President Ali, in

a post on his official Facebook, expressed his profound sadness upon learning of the collision and the subsequent loss of life.

Speaking on behalf of the Government and people of Guyana, he conveyed deep sympathies to President Donald Trump, the US Government, and the American people in light of this horrific accident.

Recognising the far-reaching impact of the tragedy, President Ali acknowledged that

‘Opposition’s mediocre presentations prove they’re not ready for the big league’

- Jagdeo slams APNU/AFC for ‘delusional, dishonest, visionless’ contributions to Budget 2025 debate

the pain and grief extend beyond the immediate families of the victims, touching every corner of the American nation.

He emphasised Guyana’s solidarity with the American people during this difficult time, stating that Guyana shares in their pain and joins them in mourning the victims.

President Ali concluded his message by assuring that the hearts and prayers of the Guyanese people are with the families of the victims.

- Minister Teixeira emphasises PPP/C’s responsiveness, genuine interest in addressing the needs of Guyanese

‘From coastland to hinterland: Budget 2025 bridges development gaps’ - PM Phillips affirms

By Naomi Parris

OUTLINING a barrage of initiatives, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, on the final day of the Budget Debate, passionately defended the government’s spending, pointing to several programmes and policies that have been implemented to advance development and support citizens.

From expanding electricity, to building roads, the Prime Minister noted that the government has a clear strategy to ensure that development touches every community across the country.

His rebuttal came in response to Opposition Member of Parliament Volda Lawrence, who sought to question the gov-

ernment’s spending on several projects, which she argued has not been reaching the populace.

Countering this, the Prime Minister noted that billions of dollars have been spent across

the country to enhance infrastructure, boost tourism, and advance the agriculture and other sectors.

He particularly drew attention to investments in Linden,

Region 10, where the opposition has widely claimed that citizens are left out of the government’s development strategy.

“They spend only $456 million between 2015 and 2020— the APNU+AFC government literally and figuratively— took the breath out of the people of Region 10,” the Prime Minister said, citing the closure of a major call centre, immediately putting 100 persons on the breadline.

He further referenced the cessation of operations by RUSAL displacing more than 360 workers and indirectly affecting hundreds of families.

The previous administration, the Prime Minister noted, had also failed to make home ownership a realty for the people of Linden and Region Ten at large.

“Hope was restored, a new life injected into Region 10 by the PPP/C government,” he said.

The Prime Minister noted that the government has invested more 383 per cent than the APNU+AFC government in

resuscitating the tourism sector.

“We've invested more than 47 per cent on small business grants, loans and trading for small business entrepreneurs in Linden… invested more than $5.1 billion in four years on hinterland roads, bridges, miscellaneous roads, to improve the transport and logistics network in the region,” he said.

“How much did the APNU+AFC spend? Mister Speaker, $289 million in five years,” he added.

Delving further into the PPP/C government’s developmental plans, the Prime Minister spoke extensively about the country’s efforts in renewable energy.

Guyana, he noted, has made significant strides in expanding its renewable energy capacity, positioning itself as a regional leader in sustainability.

The government has launched multiple high-impact projects, including the development of large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) farms and hy-

droelectric power plants.

In December 2024, the 7.0 MW Moca Moca Hydropower Plant and the 9.65 MW solar farm in Mahdia were commissioned, contributing to a greener energy mix.

Additionally, the country has successfully implemented solar PV projects in remote areas, including the completion of the 1 MW Lethem Solar Farm in 2022 and the 1.5 MW Bartica Solar farm in 2023.

These efforts, he said, reflects the country’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and improving energy access across the country, while also supporting its long-term economic and environmental goals.

The Prime Minister said: “This budget [Budget 2025] is our collective, not we on this side, you on that side too, [it] is our collective, road map to a Guyana that is secure and sustainable, a Guyana where every citizen, regardless of origin or station, has the opportunity to thrive.”

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips

‘Clueless and confused’

- Dr. Singh hammers opposition for ‘sordid and disgraceful’ history of corruption, failure to deliver on commitments - exposes ‘unrealistic, whimsical and fanciful promises’ that amount to nearly a trillion dollars without any allocation for critical sectors

By Clestine Juan

ARMED with newspaper clippings and official records, Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh provided a searing indictment of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)/A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), calling them “clueless and confused” as they continue to peddle false narratives and attempt to rewrite history to mask their failures.

Dr. Singh, in closing off the Budget 2025 debate on Friday, exposed the opposition’s long history of corruption, economic destruction, and failure to deliver on promises.

The other side of the House sat almost mute, while Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton and several other members of parliament were absent for the majority of the Finance Minister’s presentation.

The Opposition Leader had made his presentation just before Dr. Singh, and spoke at length about his party’s plans, should it assume the governing role.

Norton touted “a people-centred strategy for development,” which includes a significant reduction in taxes, and the alleviation of the high cost of living.

Dr. Singh, however, said that with the opposition’s track record, it is highly unlikely that it will ever return to the governing office, and warned that their incompetence, economic mismanagement, and deception were the reasons they were rejected by the electorate.

The Finance Minister reminded the nation of the APNU+AFC’s disastrous tenure in

office between 2015 and 2020, during which they implemented draconian taxation policies, stifled economic growth, and mismanaged national resources.

He directly chastised Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton, stating: “I was reminded of an old saying: “Turtle can’t walk if he nah push he head out de shell.” They remain just as clueless and as confused as they were between 2015 and 2020, and as they were before 1992. They remain just as clueless and confused as they’ve always been – incompetent.”

Dr. Singh emphasised that every time the PNCR held power, it resulted in economic collapse. To illustrate this, he presented newspaper clippings from the 1980s and early 1990s, detailing the consequences of PNCR’s policies, including rampant inflation, food shortages, and international isolation.

“There is an almost perfect correlation between the political and economic history of our country. The APNU and the PNC before them have, on every occasion, demonstrated absolute disregard for democratic norms, respect for the will of the people, or even a shred of concern for the citizens they were supposed to serve,” the Finance Minister said.

He reminded the public that the PNCR, under Forbes Burnham, once banned basic food items like flour and potatoes, criminalising citizens for eating roti and dhal.

“Mr. Norton comes today to say he’s proud of the fact that their party banned basic food items. The APNU+AFC has learned nothing. They

want to mislead the people into believing they have changed, but they are the same PNC that reduced this country to pauperism,” Dr. Singh posited.

HYPOCRISY ON INFRASTRUCTURE AND SPENDING

Dr. Singh systematically tore apart the opposition’s criticism of the PPP/C’s investment in infrastructure, pointing out their contradictory stance on development projects.

“For weeks, we heard APNU members claim that we are investing too much in infrastructure. Then Norton comes and promises multiple bridges across the Essequibo River –not one, but multiple! Which is it? They want infrastructure or they don’t?” the Finance Minister said.

He ridiculed the opposition for their fascination with feasibility studies, sarcastically noting: “The champion of feasibility studies as Mr. Norton is, I don’t know where these studies are for the multiple bridges he promised. Maybe he’ll share them with us.”

Dr. Singh also highlighted Norton’s “absurd proposal” to bring back Guyana Airways

Corporation (GAC), a failed state-owned airline known for mismanagement under the PNC.

He said: “They want to bring back GAC, but they conveniently forget that under Burnham, the aircraft was used as a private jet. Seats had to be changed to his favorite colour, and friends and family were prioritised over paying passengers. They ran it into the ground, just like everything else they touched.”

RECORD OF DELIVERY

Dr. Singh reaffirmed that Budget 2025 is designed to continue Guyana’s transformation, ensuring prosperity for all citizens.

He pointed to tangible achievements under the PPP/C, including doubling the income-tax threshold, increasing the old-age pension from $20,500 to $41,000 per month, and expanding access to education and healthcare.

“We have doubled the income tax-threshold in one term, from $65,000 to $130,000 per month. We have increased oldage pensions and introduced a $100,000 baby grant for new mothers for the first time in our

country’s history,” the Finance Minister posited.

He added that the government is building modern hospitals, expanding the housing sector, and enhancing infrastructure, all of which create jobs and opportunities for thousands of Guyanese.

Dr. Singh said: “Every child in Guyana today has access to better education, every patient has access to better healthcare, and every Guyanese has the opportunity to own a home. That is the reality under the PPP/C.”

APNU’S BUDGET PROPOSALS

Dr. Singh also dismantled APNU’s reckless and unrealistic budget proposals, which he calculated would cost nearly a trillion dollars—without a clear plan to fund them.

“Their fictitious, imaginary measures, their whimsical and fanciful promises, amount to nearly a trillion dollars before they even build a school, a hospital, or a single road,” he said.

According to Dr Singh, these measures would cost an estimated $799 billion, and this fanciful host of proposed measures exclude the allocations needed for critical sectors like infrastructure and education.

Dr Singh challenged the opposition to justify that these measures would not cost as much as estimated.

He further urged the public to scrutinise these promises and do their own calculations to determine their feasibility.

“I want you to go and see what they promised you and pull out your pocket calculators and calculate for yourself. These things that they are

promising you alone would cost about a trillion dollars,” Dr. Singh said. He exposed their contradictions, highlighting their promise to eliminate VAT on electricity and water—taxes they introduced while in government.

“They put VAT on electricity and water in 2015. Now they come and tell you they’ll give it to you for free? The Guyanese people are not stupid,” he emphasised.

Dr. Singh warned that APNU’s deception was an insult to the intelligence of the people, stating: “They believe they can pull the same trick they did in 2015, when an entire generation had forgotten their failures. But after five years of their rule, the Guyanese people will never forget again.”

In concluding his address, Dr. Singh directed a powerful message to the young members of APNU and all young Guyanese citizens: “You must understand why you are sitting on the opposition benches today. It is because your leadership let you down. They let down the people who gave them a chance. The young people of Guyana deserve a future of progress, not a return to the past.”

With the PPP/C government delivering on its promises and forging ahead with Guyana’s unprecedented economic growth, Dr. Singh made one thing abundantly clear: “The APNU+AFC can continue to promise the impossible. The People’s Progressive Party/Civic will continue to deliver for the Guyanese people.”

‘Opposition’s mediocre presentations prove they’re not ready for the big league’

- Jagdeo slams APNU/AFC

GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Bharrat Jagdeo has criticised the APNU/AFC parliamentarians for their ‘mediocre’ and ‘contradictory’ presentations during the budget debate which concluded on Friday.

Although budget debating is crucial, since it sets a vision for the future, the General Secretary, during his weekly press conference on Thursday, said the Opposition is “visionless.”

The budget debate on the $1.38 trillion budget began last week Friday and concluded yesterday.

The presentations by the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/ AFC) Parliamentarians were riddled with conflicting policies, which raised doubts about their ability to offer a cohesive front, Jagdeo said.

He related: “Everyone is announcing policy, from the most junior Member of Parliament to the most senior one. From AFC to APNU, they’re all saying what they will do. So often what they announce is contradictory.”

While labelling them as “dysfunctional,” Jagdeo said that the opposition parliamen-

tarians’ presentations were an example of how they performed in office from 2015-2020.

Although the Opposition is guilty of firing the 2,000 Community Service Officers (CSOs), several Parliamentarians, within the past week, from the opposition have attempted to shift the blame.

“Downright dishonest” is how Jagdeo defined the rhetoric from the opposition.

“They’re attempting to rewrite history,” he said.

Also, the Opposition criticised the government for investing in infrastructure, yet, as Jagdeo pointed out, their contributions in parliament are contradicting their stance.

“You can’t build a ring road that would be ten times the amount that we’re receiving from the oil and gas sector,” Jagdeo said, while responding to one parliamentarian’s infrastructure suggestion.

Given the level of incoherency and lofty promises, Jagdeo asked how one could take the Opposition seriously.

Further, the General Secretary said that the portrait the Opposition is painting that they performed well as a government in 2015-2020 is “de-

lusional.”

“That is a healthy dose of cognitive disease,” he lamented, while blazing them for dodging accountability regarding their attempt to hijack Guyana’s democracy in the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Also, rebutting the constant position by the Opposition that Guyana’s debt is too high, the General Secretary said the debt is stable.

“We’re not borrowing to consume, we’re borrowing to build the infrastructure of the future,” he said.

Owing to prudent management by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government, the total Public and Publicly Guaranteed (PPG) debt-to-GDP ratio has been reduced from 47.4 per cent at the end of 2020 to 24.3 per cent at the end of 2024.

Under the People’s National Congress (PNC), Guyana was characterised by a significant debt-service burden, when the country’s debt was once nine times the size of the economy and the country was using over 100 per cent of revenue to service debt.

However, Guyana has since

gained better footing and is no longer facing a crippling debt-servicing crisis.

He also said that investments are being made to support every Guyanese in various areas such as health and education.

While the Opposition, in office from 2015-2020, focused on benefitting themselves, Jagdeo said that the PPP/C is working to better the lives of all, including public servants and providing jobs, which the opposition failed to do.

Additionally, undertones of racism and elitism were also observed in the Opposition parliamentarians’ presentations by Jagdeo.

He said: “There’s always an underlying tone of discrimination in some of their presentations,” adding: “They are racist and elitist… and they try to distract the public with these old, worn-out accusations of corruption.”

The Opposition raised concerns about corruption; however, Jagdeo highlighted the irony since a number of those parliamentarians were embroiled in allegations of corruption.

“I didn’t pay attention to all the

es but this is what I saw... it’s

Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh

Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton

Jagdeo rejects Opposition’s use of ‘false narratives’ to undermine GECOM

By Trina Williams

THE opposition is deliberately trying to erode trust in the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) in order to deflect from its impending defeat at the upcoming General and Regional Elections, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Bharrat Jagdeo, said during his Thursday press conference at Freedom House.

He, in response to this, highlighted how GECOM’s credibility to conduct free and fair elections has “vastly improved,” and also how the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) is attempting to rewrite its sordid track record of rigging elections.

Last week Thursday, the AFC met with GECOM and after this meeting it made several claims in a press release.

The AFC had claimed that GECOM’s Commissioners were unable to provide clear responses to their concerns, and said that its proposals are “necessary” to restore public confidence in the electoral process.

The General Secretary

meticulously responded and rejected the Opposition’s unsubstantiated claims, which, he said, are centred on destabilising this democratic institution.

“Now if anyone is in disarray, as an independent observer would recognise, is the opposition,” he contended.

The AFC said that GECOM has a “fractured structure,” given disagreements among the commissioners even against the backdrop that the opposition has three of its own representatives there.

In response to this, the General Secretary said that it is the Opposition’s commissioners who have consistently sought to undermine GECOM’s credibility.

Further, threats to free and fair elections never emerged from the Commission, he said, but as seen in 2020, it was the technical staff.

Jagdeo was referring to the electoral fraud charges, which allege conspiracy to manipulate the 2020 election results.

The defendants in this case are former Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo;

Health Minister under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government Volda Lawrence; People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) activist Carol Smith-Joseph; former Chief Election Officer (CEO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Keith Lowenfield; former Deputy Chief Election Officer Roxanne Myers and GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller.

Collectively, they face 19 conspiracy charges and are represented by a defence team that also includes attorneys Ronald Daniels, Eusi Anderson, and Darren Wade.

The initial results, announced by Lowenfield, claimed an APNU+AFC victory, but a recount led by GECOM and a high-level Caribbean Community (CARICOM) delegation revealed a win for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

The recount confirmed that the PPP/C won the elections with 233,336 votes against the APNU+AFC’s 217,920.

Following the PPP/C’s return to office in August 2020, criminal charges were filed against key election officials. UNCONSTITUTIONAL PROPOSALS

Despite their previous actions, the opposition is now trying to claim that biometrics are the only way to have free

and fair elections.

However, while addressing the unconstitutional proposals once again, the PPP General Secretary said GECOM’s Chairperson, Justice (Ret'd) Claudette Singh was very explicit as to why that suggestion was rejected.

He noted that the allegation by the opposition has been that there is voters’ impersonation at the place of poll.

However, the General Secretary said: “They (Opposition) have provided absolutely no evidence whatsoever to support this and if you go back historically to this issue, you will find that this is far from the truth.”

Even recently, GECOM once again, given the opposition’s consistent rhetoric, clarified that legislative provisions and other considerations are needed for biometrics.

Although the opposition

robust systems are in place at polling stations.

The General Secretary said the PPP has no such fear in how GECOM will conduct elections.

Also, as General Secretary of the PPP, Jagdeo said he will be meeting with GECOM soon to address the issues and concerns being raised.

“We are committed to a transparent and fair electoral process, and we will take all necessary steps to ensure that the will of the people is respected,” he said.

is attempting to cast doubt on GECOM, Jagdeo pointed out that in the previous General and Regional Elections, they applauded and contended that it was free and fair, even before the declaration.

This sudden shift in rhetoric by the Opposition indicates that they are scurrying for multiple fronts to posit electoral irregularities, he highlighted.

“The Opposition is trying to create a narrative where none exists. They are distorting the history of previous elections and accusing GECOM of being incapable of holding elections,” he said, adding: “This is nothing but a distraction from their own record.”

GECOM’s credibility has “vastly improved,” he said, noting that there will be a whole array of international and local observers in the upcoming elections to ensure

The AFC, in its recent press release, had said it will update the diplomatic community and representatives of the international observer missions on their claims.

However, Jagdeo reminded them that the international community has not forgotten the previous coalition administration’s five-month hold on the nation’s democracy.

“The AFC and APNU+PNC have threatened to internationalise their challenges… Good luck with this..; we will do the same,” he said.

Even in the recent meeting that President, Dr. Irfaan Ali had with United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, Jagdeo said that Rubio remembered the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

He even stated that Rubio was against the APNU+AFC’s attempt to rig the elections and stood up against it.

PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

‘Opposition’s political legacy inflicted scars on Guyana’

- Attorney-General argues, points to importance of trust, track record

THE PPP/C Government has secured the trust of Guyanese and established a track record of delivering on its promises due to its prudent people-centred policies and programmes.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, made the assertion during the budget debate in the National Assembly, on Thursday.

He stressed the importance of trust and track record in electoral politics.

Minister Nandlall said that there is a direct correlation between the budget estimates and the upcoming general elections, as the government will be seeking the votes of Guyanese to return them to office and will demonstrate that its track record is one of meeting the needs of the people.

“Once we show the people that the promises we made in 2020 have been delivered, we will ask them to return us to office. And that is what they certainly will do,” the AG said.

He noted that the opposition’s political legacy is one that inflicted scars on the country and laid the foun-

dation for the destruction of Guyana’s international standing.

“We have three decades of track record from both parties to examine. We heard a lot about constitutionality and the rule of law, but none of these attributes, as important as they are, can exist without a simple thing: free and fair elections,” the senior counsel stressed.

He recalled that the 1968 general elections were the first in a long tranche of election rigging by the opposition. These elections saw the People’s National Congress emerging victorious, with 30 of the 42 seats in the National Assembly.

“The PNC was in government and they passed a law that allowed for overseas voting. And one-fifth of the persons who voted at those elections were overseas,” he noted.

AG Nandlall stated that an investigation conducted by a British communications firm revealed that these overseas voters were fabricated.

“You know what they did? They sat down in Georgetown, compiled a

list and voted for 36,000 people in the United Kingdom…36,000 people that don’t exist. We were only two years old as a country, and they destroyed the democratic credentials of this country.

And they laid the foundation of what was to come. The 1973 elections followed, and it was worse rigged than the last. They used the army this time. Because of the exposure to the overseas voting, they had to find another mechanism to rig,” the AG explained.

This trend continued into the 1980 and 1985 elections, but the AG reminded that these efforts were finally quashed in 1992 and then again in 2020.

“It was not an easy task. The international community had to get involved. The Carter Centre had to get involved. And then we had the 1997 elections. We brought foreign observers. All over the world, people came here and observed. We had 2001 elections, 2006 elections, 2011 elections. Those are the elections we presided over. And all were certified to be free and fair by the in-

ternational community and the world,” the legal affairs minister reminded.

He said besides condemnation from international governments, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Commonwealth, the private sector and other international organisations, former government minister and leader of the Alliance For Change, Dominic Gaskin also criticised the conduct of the APNU+AFC during these elections.

Turning to the 2020 elections fiasco, AG Nandlall highlighted several crucial elements including the supporters of the APNU+AFC were misled into believing that the coalition won the elections and that there was a deliberate attempt to discredit the entire elections.

“No evidence has been provided to support the claim of vast numbers of rejected ballots among the discipline forces, let alone the allegation of a delib -

erate attempt to invalidate the votes of the discipline services. [And] no power on earth, can convince the APNU+AFC leadership that it lost the 2020 election,” he added.

AG Nandlall reminded that in its ambitious ‘100 Day Plan’ the APNU+AFC vowed to liberalise the telecommunications sector within its first 100 days in office.

Five years on, this commitment never materialised and it was left in the hands of the PPP/C government to effectively end the monopoly held by the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT), opening the market to more competition.

“They can never be trusted. They will come to the electorate and they will promise the skies, the mountains and the oceans, but it is all a farce. It is nothing but a three-card trick,” the AG emphasised. (DPI)

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall

A Prosperous Future

In an ever-changing world, Guyana stands at the edge of unparalleled growth and development.

The recent comments by President Dr. Irfaan Ali are not only a visionary for the present needs but also position Guyana as a future leader in the Caribbean and Latin American regions.

It is not just about building roads and putting up buildings, but it is actually about laying the foundation for a prosperous future.

This is an important

investment that stimulates economic growth, promotes trade, and enhances living standards for all Guyanese.

Sustainability, economic expansion, and job creation have been emphatically underscored by President Ali, which completely coincides with the country's developmental goals.

The Gas-to-Energy project is one such game-changer that promises a 50% reduction in electricity costs while at the same time drastically

reducing the greenhouse gas emissions burden.

It proves that Guyana is trying to balance its economic growth with environmental responsibility.

But perhaps most importantly, it is this call to look beyond Guyana's borders. As he pressed for projects at the regional scale, Dr. Ali thrusts Guyana right into the midst of the big Latin American and Caribbean scene.

It is a vision not just ambitious but most apt in a world increasingly more connected.

The investment strategy of the government is not limited to mere physical infrastructure. With over G$129.8 billion being invested in health in 2024, Guyana is ensuring that its human capital is just as strong as its physical capital.

Such a holistic approach to development is commendable and necessary for long-term success.

A final important point is the emphasis on early mover advantage in business. The proactive stance

in the development of its energy sector in projects such as the US$300 million Vreed-en-Hoop Shore base, positions it to be "a major mover and shaker in the energy market".

Without question, it will pay dividends sometime in the near future.

But with great opportunity comes great responsibility, and at the same time that Guyana is undertaking this ambitious journey, it needs to be vigilant about inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, and good

governance.

The openness of the government in projects like the Gas-to-Energy initiative sets a good precedent that should be replicated across all development endeavours. By investing in infrastructure, fostering sustainable growth, and thinking on a grand scale, Guyana is not just building roads and bridges; it is building a path to a prosperous future for all its citizens, setting an example for the entire region.

Budget 2025: Building a healthy nation

Dear editor,

THE year 2025 started off right with a whopping allocation of 143.2 billion GYD in Budget 2025 for the health sector.

I would say that this will be a continuation of progress that has started since 2020. We have seen the tremendous progress that the Ministry of Health has produced from the development of new policies to the mass infrastructural development.

We have seen how many persons have been accessing quality decentralised healthcare which never existed before. I am excited for what Budget 2025 promises to bring to the table.

Last week, I listened to many opposition members in there budget presentations questioning why the government is investing in building new hospitals.

Mr. Norton in his press conference sometime last week

even said “they are building hospitals for corruption purposes”.

And I thought that perhaps if we really cared about people and their well-being that we would want to support the expansion of health care for people instead of placing “Wild West” accusations.

As a citizen, I believe that the construction of these hospitals should be applauded since health care services are mandatory and should be considered as a major priority for people. With the amount of patients that requires medical attention at the Guyana Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

The patient load will be reduced significantly since more persons will have access to quality healthcare in a well-cared-for manner, and most importantly with the growing population and expansion of the housing sector this will be greatly needed.

Imagine what relief this will bring in regards to the referral rate and to the people of Moruca, Kamarang, Kato, Lethem & New Amsterdam and these are just a few.

I admire the way in which the government is prioritising the health and education sectors since these two are paramount for our well-being and growth.

According to the budget estimates last year 5 billion GYD alone was allocated to the component of infrastructureupgrade to health infrastructure and this year 6.3 billion GYD was allocated to rehabilitate and construct new health posts across the hinterlands.

I am always happy to hear of projects being executed in the hinterlands because I see the need for further advancements for our indigenous brothers and sisters to have access to these. Another key component I look forward to is drugs and

medical supplies. If we were to conduct a macro analysis of the supply of drugs line item 6221 of Volume One of the budget estimates, we would see that in 2019 4.9 billion GYD was expended.

Fast forward to 2024, 19 billion GYD was expended and now this year-2025 the allocation is 22.4 billion GYD.

This has seen a 357.1 per cent increase from 2019 to 2025. The supply of drugs is slated to be more efficient with the provision of five new drugs bonds catered for in budget 2025 for the efficient provision of drugs and medical supplies. This reflects a government’s commitment that cares for people while advancing the health sector.

I am impressed with what I saw in Volume Three of the budget under the component –One Health Programme which received an allocation of 230

million GYD for the provision of multi- sectoral health surveillance systems, laboratory equipment and capacity building.

This means that we can expect improved disease monitoring, early detection of outbreaks, enhanced diagnostic capabilities and of course with a collaborative health approach. These preventative measures shows how proactive the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony is as it relates prioritising prevention.

Let us not forget the medical treatment component of the Ministry of Health. In 2019, 220 million GYD was expended to offer assistance to 684 persons. In 2024, 1.4 billion GYD was expended which benefitted 2,653 persons. In 2025, 2.5 billion is being allocated to support this programme and that is a magnificent increase from 2019 to 2025.

The Ministry of Health-Dis-

ability and Rehabilitative Services Programme from 20212025 distributed 4,091 hearing aids, 2,176 wheelchairs and 2,176 prosthesis. With an allocation of 293 million GYD in Budget 2025, this programme is expected to thrive and offer continued support to the Guyanese people that needs it.

Following Dr. Frank’s continued commitment in the health sector, these are just some of the allocations that should see a stronger health system, improved public health outcomes and which will lead to better preventative measures and treatment of diseases in keeping with the government’s manifesto, delivery of quality healthcare to all of Guyana.

This is a good sign and hope for all of Guyana. The PPP/C’s legacy remains unmatched and commendable.

Regards, Sachin Persaud

I am offering money for legal assistance in 2025

THERE is no society in which the powerful authorities procrastinate in taking condign measures to stop social aberrations. People all over the world are inclined to praise the US as an open, free society. But the US enacted legislation to deport anyone despite the decades that person lived in the US if they are not citizens and are convicted for a criminal offence.

In Guyana, draconian policies to extirpate deviant behaviour that violates the rights of law-abiding citizens must be carried out this year. I start with noise nuisance. You don’t need any research to tell you that Guyana has a huge population of school children.

How can they study at nights when loud music and unbearable noise from the modified exhaust of motor cycles disturb them?

I live directly across

the road from MovieTowne. On the street where MovieTowne is, a member of the nouveau riche stratum has built a weekend structure that rivals any majestic house you see in Florida. I got to know this when I went to complain about the use of illegal firecrackers. If this is a weekend getaway, then imagine what takes place there. I can tell you what takes place there because it affects me and my wife and my neighbours – unbearably loud party noise after midnight. In the line of fire is my neighbour who is in her mid-eighties. In the line of fire is the Ambassador from the Dominican Republic who has two small children.

Noise nuisance is mental harassment and Guyana drifts from year to year complaining about it but it simply goes on. Noise nuisance has now reached a frightening level with car

music. If Guyana does not nip this new social cancer in the bud, it will become uncontrollable.

Here is what is taking place in Guyana since early last year. A substantial amount of low-life drivers have installed huge stereo seats in their trunks and lower the backset and let loose thousands of decibels on the society. These drivers cannot hear an incoming siren from the fire truck, ambulance and police. They would not hear if they hit a pedestrian on the road.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has to stop this deviancy before it becomes uncontrollable. And when the policy is implemented it has to be drastic. On being stopped for noise nuisance, the stereo set must be removed by the police. This would generate harsh reaction from those drivers but it will work and in weeks’ time, not months, you will see the success. A

society has no choice but to be condign in order to save society itself.

Here is what happened last year and the Home Affairs Ministry need to confront this danger. The riders of motorcyclist have modified their exhaust so it makes a very loud sound as when the racing car is on the tracks. This exhaust noise is terrifying especially in the early morning hours. It definitely wakes you up. Think of people who need their midnight sleep because they have to be up at 5am to prepare for work and they are awaken at 2 am by these low-life motorcycle riders.

I wonder all the time what the traffic ranks do on the West Coast when I am going to Parika with my wife. Innocent drivers are stopped to show documents and the vehicles and motorcycles fly pass

the ranks making loud noise. Do you know the law restricts the amount of decibels? I cannot remember the exact amount but I know it is below 20. The stereo in the trunks of low-life drivers exceed over two hundred.

What else we should see in 2025 that we must confront? I believe that when a bank account becomes dormant the banks are violating people’s rights by asking them to produce a large amount of documents in keeping with the anti-laundering Act. This is improper and illegal. There is nothing in the law that says anything about dormant account.

An account that becomes inactive cannot be involved in money laundering thus the holder should not be compelled to produce documents. The account should automati-

cally be renewed. Should you fall under the harassment tentacles of the bank for dormancy please take a lawyer. I will raise money for the lawyer. My phone is 614-5927. My email is fredkissoon@yahoo.com.

The banks must be compelled to stop this nonsense in 2025. The banks have become a law unto themselves. They must be confronted in their harassment of working class citizens of this country. Please take them to court over their mistreatment of you. I will willingly raise money for the lawyer.

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.

‘We listen and respond’

- Minister Teixeira emphasises PPP/C’s responsiveness, genuine interest in addressing the needs of Guyanese

By Shamar Meusa

MINISTER of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira has said that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) remains a responsive government, which has stimulated progress across the country.

The Minister made this disclosure during her contribution to the 2025 National Budget Debate, on Thursday, when she also noted that the government is one that listens, and this is reflective in this year’s budget which incorporates the citizens’ suggestions and requests.

According to Teixeira, while many people have spoken about inclusion in relation to the budget, this year’s budget is a clear example of

inclusion and participation.

To this end, she noted that the private sector, which is a critical component of any country, has all come forward in public statements supporting the budget and have further contributed and made recommendations that have been included in the budget.

“So we hear, we listen, there's not one time in this country that there aren't ministers out in the field, thousands of community meetings have been held…. we listen and we incorporate their views and suggestions into the budget,” she said.

The Minister added that the government is and remains accessible, and is visible and further not just listening but also responding to the needs of the citizens.

“And this is what you call a responsive government, a critical component of democracy,” Teixeira said.

The Minister indicated everywhere in Guyana, there is progress taking place.

She said, “Everywhere you go there is progress, schools, health centres, roads, buildings, houses going up, Airbnb’s going up, it is unbelievable.”

Teixeira noted that if one is to look at the government’s housing programme, it provides security of tenure and dignity to those who are benefitting from the programme.

“It is liberating and you can’t put a price on that, not only living in better conditions than you were before,” she added.

The minister added that

calculate it… being able to deduct from your income tax. These are things that people are welcoming,” she noted.

Further, the moving of the income tax threshold from $100,000 to $130,000, she said, amounts to some $8.5 billion and adds another 22,000 persons to persons who will be exempt from paying taxes on their salary.

All of these measures, along with others will make life easier and less stressful for a lot of people, Teixeira said.

a number of the measures presented in Budget 2025 were highly anticipated by the public.

This, she said, includes the $100,000 for every new born baby to a Guyanese mother which will cost some $1.3 billion in the budget.

She added that people are also looking forward to the $10,000 per child in relation to the income tax deductible.

“So those that have five children will have $50,000 a month times 12 months… you

Hitting back at comments from members of the APNU/ AFC opposition, she noted that while they claim that while they were not in government they did not have oil money, she reminded that there was lots of money left when the PPP/C demitted office in 2015.

The minister reminded that the APNU+AFC of 2015 to 2020 has nothing to show for its term in office or no notable projects that can be called a legacy for its term in government.

Speaking further on the measures in the 2025 budget, she pointed to the Gas to Energy project which, when com-

missioned, will cut consumer costs in relation to electricity by 50 per cent.

Moving forward, Teixeira added that in line with economic development, there must be targeted infrastructure.

“We have been very clear and strategic in what infrastructure we're doing because targeted infrastructure not only increases economic activity but also enhances economic growth. It reduces inequalities. It reduces inequalities. And it improves public service delivery,” she said.

She added that infrastructure is a major catalyst to develop that country, and this encourages investment and encourages the youth of the country.

The Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister noted that the opposition APNU/ AFC has to decide which side of progress they are on.

Against this backdrop, she said that the Guyanese have seen and experienced the change and progress thus far, and will continue to see this in the coming years under the PPP/C administration.

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira

Remaining cash grants to be distributed after approval of Budget 2025

GUYANESE who are yet to receive their $100,000 cash grants can now breathe a sigh of relief as the government has indicated that distribution of the remaining grants will commence after the 2025 National Budget has been passed.

This guarantee was given by Vice President and General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo.

He was at the time speaking at his weekly party press conference which was held on Thursday at the party’s headquarters, Freedom House, on Robb Street.

The Vice President stated that significant strides have been made in having cheques issued as the registration process across all regions have been completed.

“They have told me that they have completed the process in the remaining five

regions,” Dr Jagdeo stated.

Dr Jagdeo also clarified that even though the registration process in the regions would have mostly ended, the government is fully aware that not all citizens have been able to register and as such, reassured that permanent measures will be put in place for persons to register in the various regions.

“Anyone in any region who has not been or has been unable to

register, we are putting in place permanent arrangements where they can go in and get registered and then I will have to talk to them about how we deal with people who can’t come to their places and get registered,” VP Jagdeo reassured.

The VP further reminded that, “Even if they completed, say, Regions Six, Two or Ten and people [were unable to] get registered now, then, that does not mean that’s

the end of it. We put in place additional arrangements,”

The government has been doing all in its power to distribute the 100k cash grant in a timely manner.

To date, over 400,000 Guyanese have registered for the grant with some 300,000+ cheques printed already.

The General Secretary further expressed hope that the budget would be approved by next Thursday for

grant distribution to advance smoothly.

“As soon as their resources are [available], because we are appropriating; [so] hopefully by next week Thursday, the budget will be completed,” GS Jagdeo mentioned.

Recently, there has been some confusion on social media which sought to suggest that the government is either withholding the grant or moving at a snail’s pace with its disbursement. (DPI)

UG addresses concerns over delayed grade in Law Department

THE University of Guyana (UG) has expressed deep regret and concern over a letter to the editor from an anonymous writer regarding a long-outstanding grade in the Department of Law.

According to a press release from UG, the institution has assured affected students that the issue will be rectified by the beginning of next week, following an apology issued collectively by the Department of Law and the Faculty of Social Sciences.

The university noted that while it offers over 2,500 courses per semester and over 5,000 courses annually, 94 per cent of grades are posted on time. However, delays occasionally occur due to various reasons, which are continually being investigated and addressed.

The University’s Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Engagement is responsible for quality assurance and is actively working to perfect grading systems and

enhance faculty oversight, UG said.

The University also dismissed the broad criticism of its law programme based on a single incident, highlighting the consistent academic excellence of its graduates. Over the past decade, UG law graduates have ranked among the top 10 performers at the Hugh Wooding Law School, frequently securing prestigious academic prizes and honours.

Notable alumni include:

Chevy Devonish (2019)

– Valedictorian, winner of the Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission Clash of the Debate Titans National Tertiary Debate Competition, and winner of the school's Parliamentary Debate Competition.

Rondelle Keller – Best graduating student, recipient of the Certificate of Merit, Anand Ramlogan Prize, Council Prize, Chairman's Prize, and participant in the Stetson International Environmental Moot Court Competition.

Michael Munroe –Named to the Principal's Roll of Honour, recipient of the Book Specialist's Prize and Guyana Government Prize, winner of the 11th Annual Caribbean Court of Justice Law Moot, and participant in the American Caribbean Law Initiative at Stetson University.

Rea Harris (2023) –Valedictorian, recipient of the Mediation Board of Trinidad & Tobago Prize for Excellence in Mediation Studies, the Book Specialists Prize for Best Overall Performance, and the Book Specialists Prize for Second Outstanding

Year II Student. Further underscoring the prestige of its law programme, UG highlighted the recent recognition of Professor Kenneth Benjamin, current Head of the Department of Law, who was honoured in 2024 for his distinguished career in law and justice during the institution’s 50th-anniversary celebrations.

The university reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high academic standards and addressing challenges in a timely manner to ensure the best outcomes for its students.

Girl, 16, allegedly beaten to death by ‘husband’ at Baramita

POLICE are investigating an alleged murder committed on 16-year-old Janelly David at a camp at Barama Line, Baramita, North West District (NWD).

The teen’s lifeless body was found on Thursday in a camp she shared with 40-year-old Eon Moore, who according to the police was her common-law husband. Prior to the discovery, he reportedly fled the scene on an ATV in the direction of Five-Star back dam, NWD.

According to a police statement, ranks from Baramita Police Station in Region One and Medic Edghilo of Baramita Cottage Hospital visited the scene at about 11:00 hours on Thursday. It was observed that the scene is a makeshift camp measuring about 12 x 18 feet in length and width.

Police examined the body and observed that the teen was lying motionless face-up in a hammock. She was clad in a peach-colour top and black short pants. Ranks checked the victim's body and observed marks of violence to her right eye and what appeared to be swelling to the back of her head.

“Enquiries disclosed that the victim and suspect are known to each other, and they shared a common-law relationship and were living together up to the time of

Janelly's death.

“On 29th January 2025 at about 18:30 hours, a 31-year-old cook whose camp is about fifteen feet from the couple's camp at Baramita, said she saw both of them and the victim appeared to be in good spirits and health at the time. Subsequently, the cook left her camp and went to Central Baramita and she returned at about 10:30 hours today (Thursday), where she saw the suspect (Eon Moore) packing his belongings on a Red Suzuki All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), which did not have a registration number.

“The cook said she asked the suspect where Janelly was, and he responded: ‘She's sleeping in her hammock’.”

“The cook said she immediately checked the hammock and observed Janelly lying motionless with visible marks of violence on her face. At that time, the suspect took off on the ATV and made good his escape,” the police statement said.

A report was made to Baramita Police Station and the teen was later escorted to Baramita Cottage Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival by the medic.

“A manhunt is presently ongoing for the suspect as investigations continue,” the police said.

NDMA launches ICT hub at Aishalton Village

A team from the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) on Thursday launched the Aishalton Village Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub, powered by WiFiGY.

According to the NDMA, the WiFiGY service was installed in the last quarter of 2024, connecting all 57 villages of Region Nine with the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) high-speed internet service.

This initiative was complemented by the launch of the NDMA’s 2025 Cyber Hygiene Training Programme in the South Rupununi. This reinforced the authority’s commitment to not only provide free internet access through WiFiGY, but also the knowledge to use it safely and responsibly.

The NDMA stated that all South Rupununi villag-

es will benefit from these Cyber Hygiene Training Sessions.

ICT has been identified as a key pillar of the government’s national development and governance strategy.

It is a holistic approach adopted to ensure that the collaborative efforts of ministries and agencies achieve the shared vision of creating a digitally inclusive and accessible government.

Under the National Data Management Authority Act, the NDMA is responsible for the development of computerised solutions in the public sector to satisfy its information needs, develop training and manpower programmes to ensure adequately trained personnel are available for the efficient operation of computer systems, and to establish guidelines for the recruitment and

work conditions for ICT professionals, among other responsibilities.

Now that it is merged with the e-Government Agency, the NDMA will retain its responsibilities while its scope of work will now be extended to include providing support to ministries and government agencies to enable them to provide government services to citizens on an interconnected mediation platform.

With the effective functioning of the NDMA, there is now easier access to government services across all regions through the bridging of the digital divide. There will also be reductions in the cost for IT projects within the public sector, and improved responsiveness for citizens conducting regional and international business.

EPA hosts follow-up meeting with developers to address environmental concerns in Garden of Eden

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently conducted a follow-up meeting with developers along Second Street, Garden of Eden, to address environmental concerns related to dust and vibrations that are affecting residents.

At the previous meeting, the major issue addressed was dust caused by heavy trucks using the road.

According to the EPA, based on its examination of the area, the primary sources of these issues stem from developmental activities, including poultry rearing, laydown yards supporting the offshore industry, and concrete batching plants.

The EPA on Thursday stated that during the meeting, developers committed to implementing specific

measures within set timelines to mitigate these issues.

The agency said that given the impact of heavy vehicular traffic and industrial activities ongoing in the community, the developers agreed to several measures.

On such measure is that two road signs will be erected instructing drivers to reduce their speed to no more than 20 km/h when using the road in that area.

According to the EPA, this measure aims to reduce dust pollution and minimise vibrations caused by heavy trucks. This is expected to be implemented on February 10, 2025. The lead developers of this are Royal Chicken Ink and Rapid Oilfield Guyana.

Another measure to be implemented is that of a

Wet Suppression System, allowing the road to be periodically soaked to prevent excessive dust from affecting nearby residents. This is expected to be implemented on February 6, 2025.The lead developer of this is SHG Guyana Investment Inc., with support from the team of developers in the area.

The EPA noted that additionally, it will continuously monitor developmental activities to ensure compliance.

Residents are encouraged to report deviations from these commitments to both the agency and the developers.

It was mentioned that these proactive measures aim to enhance the well-being of the community while supporting responsible industrial development.

EPA officials and developers during the follow-up meeting (EPA photo)

The Aishalton Village ICT hub (NDMA photo)

DPP appeals dismissal of fraud charge against Patterson, former DHBC GM

THE Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC, has filed an appeal challenging the dismissal of fraud charges against David Patterson, the former Public Infrastructure Minister under the previous A Partnership for National

Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government, and Rawlston Adams, the former General Manager of the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC).

The joint charge stemmed from an alleged conspiracy to defraud

DHBC of $162,635,015 between November 18, 2016, and February 1, 2018, as part of a feasibility study for a new Demerara River bridge. Patterson and Adams were accused of conspiring with each other and unidentified individuals to misappropriate funds

from the corporation’s asphalt plant account for a project that fell outside the DHBC’s mandate.

On January 17, 2025, Senior Magistrate Leron Daly of the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts ruled that there was insufficient evidence to support allegations of a fraudulent agreement between Patterson and Adams. Consequently, both were found not guilty of the charge.

In response to the ruling, the DPP has filed a Notice of Appeal with the Court of Appeal requesting that the decision be overturned.

Additionally, the DPP seeks an order for Patterson and Adams to bear the costs of the appeal. The court has yet to set a date for the hearing of this case.

The fraud allegations were triggered by findings from the Public Procurement Commission (PPC), which investigated the Auditor General’s Report for the 2016 fiscal year.

The report revealed that the then Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MoPI) had violated the Procurement Act by awarding a contract in 2016 to LievenseCSO Engineering Contracting BV, a Dutch company, for the feasibility study and design of the new bridge, bypassing the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board’s (NPTAB) recommendation to retender the project.

Despite the irregularities, the MoPI, under

Patterson’s leadership, defended the decision to sole-source the contract, citing the urgency of completing the bridge and asserting that Cabinet had approved the selection of LievenseCSO.

The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) later launched an investigation into the matter, leading to the charges against Patterson and Adams in January 2021. Both men were granted bail in the amount of $200,000 pending the trial's outcome.

The PPC's 12-page report, titled Investigation into the Procurement of Consultancy Services for the Feasibility Study and Design of the New Demerara River Bridge, concluded: “Based on practice, this award of a contract…to LIEVENSECSO ENGINEERING CONTRACTING BV, by the DHBC, should have been administered by the NPTAB. If, indeed, the MoPI had considered that this project was under its purview, the same requirements would have been applicable.”

According to the PPC, Section 17 subsection 1 of the Procurement Act states that NPTAB is responsible for exercising jurisdiction over tenders which exceed the amounts prescribed in the procurement regulations. The regulations state that, for the MoPI, consultancy projects that cost in excess $5 million must be administered by the NPTAB, the PPC noted.

DPP Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC David Patterson Rawlston Adams

SODVPU conducts vital training for probation, childcare officers on new Family Violence Act

THE Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SODVPU) under the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS), recently conducted a vital training session with probation officers and childcare officers.

The unit in keeping with its mandate to raise awareness of the new Family Violence Act, hosted the session which aimed to strengthen the knowledge and capacity of the officers in addressing family violence cases effectively, thereby ensuring better protection and support for survivors.

In 2024, the Family Violence Bill was successfully passed in the National Assembly with the aim of enhancing protection for victims of family violence.

The Family Violence

Bill No.11 of 2024 intended to implement modifications to the general framework surrounding domestic violence and policies. Its passage led to the repeal of the Domestic Violence Act.

In addition to the inclusion of provisions from the old act, the expansion of the kinds of violence the piece of legislation sought

to address and the categories of persons who are entitled to seek and obtain such protection were also included in the bill.

The bill underscored that domestic violence has been recognised as violence between current and former partners in intimate settings. Because the old act did not address the kinds

of violence perpetuated daily and did not provide protection to persons from violence arising from familial relationships, the term ‘family violence’ was added to the bill. This expansive term relates to all forms of violence between family members.

The SODVPU seeks to protect, promote and preserve the rights, dignity and worth of all Guyanese, by advocating for the provision of quality, comprehensive and responsive services to victims of sexual, domestic and gender-based violence and their dependents as well as initiating actions that hold perpetrators accountable for their behaviour.

The SODVPU aims to enhance family and community resilience, through the promotion of responsive public policies that

offer a supportive environment for individuals who are at risk of and/or may experience sexual, domestic and gender-based violence.

It seeks to promote an inclusive society, where Guyanese are respected, equipped, empowered and supported, to live violence-free lives.

The unit is responsible for the development, promotion and implementation of educational programmes for the prevention of domestic violence. This includes specific groups and sectors in which domestic violence is manifested.

Additionally, it collaborates with the Guyana Police Force, and other government agencies and key stakeholders to study, investigate and publish reports on the prevalence of domestic violence in Guy-

ana; develops and promotes strategies that encourage policy change and improve service delivery for victims of domestic violence, and establishes and encourages the development of programmes on information, support and counselling services for victims of domestic violence.

Furthermore, it encourages programmes and services for boys and girls who experience family violence; provides training and orientation services for police officers and other key professionals who assist in the treatment and counselling of victims of domestic violence and abuse; and analyses and implements studies on the need for education, training and rehabilitation of perpetrators of domestic violence.

Probation and childcare officers during the family violence training session held earlier this week (Human Services Ministry photo)

New vessel will enhance Region Two’s tourism, economic landscape - Regional Chairperson

By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay

COMMENDING Budget 2025 for designating funds for an additional vessel from Parika to Supenaam, Region Two Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, has said that the initiative will reduce the lengthy wait times, promote tourism, and strengthen the economy.

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, De Silva shared that there are currently three vessels operating on the Parika to Supenaam route but due to significant development in the country, an increasing number of people are travelling for the purpose of business, leisure, or shopping on the West Coast of Demerara, in the capital city, or to other regions.

According to her, “With the increasing development of Guyana and specifically Region Two, people are travelling on

a daily basis, whether for work, business, or leisure, and most of them are travelling with their vehicles.

“Times are changing, and people are no longer waiting on holidays to travel in their large numbers to Essequibo. Every day the boats are packed with vehicles and people, especially on the weekends.”

De Silva further stated that as the region flourishes in all sectors, locals and international tourists are gravitating to the area because of the various resorts, lakes, and tourism destinations as well as agriculture.

She added that with an upsurge of people in the region, the benefits extend beyond just the resorts and tourist sites. According to her, restaurants, taxis, hire car operators, market vendors, shopkeepers, supermarkets, and various other businesses are also experiencing positive impacts.

The regional official

said: “The people in Region Two have always been known for their simplicity and hospitality. A region where people can come, relax, and enjoy the safety and tranquillity of what we have to offer here.

Ali and Minister Edghill for delivering on our request.”

As she reflected on the difficulties encountered by farmers under the opposition's leadership, De Silva emphasised that with the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government’s investment in a new vessel, they will no longer have to worry about their produce spoiling at the Supenaam stelling before it could reach consumers in Parika or Georgetown.

She also stated that the limited and overcrowded trips made by the two or sometimes one vessel during 2015-2020 period, resulted in farmers incurring thousands of dollars in losses.

“I am grateful that this new vessel can complement the other vessels and the development of this region, where Guyanese, especially Essequibians, can benefit directly. We must say thank you to His Excellency Dr. Irfaan

Meanwhile, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, while contributing to the Budget Debate on Wednesday said the enhancement of river connectivity and the acquisition of new vessels will cater to the substan-

tial number of people and vehicles that frequently traverse the waterways for work, business, or leisure.

He said there will be three new wooden cargo boats to service the Pomeroon, Berbice, and Northwest channels and new vessels for the Parika to Supenaam route in Region Two. Additionally, he also informed the House about the completion of works on the MV Makouria, MV Malali, MV Kananwan, and MV Sabanto.

Minister Edghill also noted that with a budget that is focused on the needs of the people, they will ensure that the dredging of the Demerara River channels is finalised, along with the removal of wrecks and obstructions from both the Essequibo and Demerara rivers. This, according to him, is essential and equally significant for guaranteeing the safe passage of larger vessels.

Region Two Chairperson, Vilma De Silva

Opposition’s call for biometric voting lays groundwork to blame GECOM for loss at 2025 polls - AG Nandlall

ATTORNEY-GENERAL

and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall, SC, has continued to criticise the opposition’s calls for the implementation of biometric voting ahead of the 2025 elections, arguing that it is a violation of the Constitution of Guyana and a strategic move to discredit the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) ahead of the polls.

Speaking during his weekly programme, ‘Issues in the News,’ Nandlall asserted that the opposition’s persistent advocacy for a biometric voting system is a calculated effort to lay the groundwork for contesting the election results in the event of a loss.

The opposition, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Alliance for Change (AFC) and the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), contend that without biometric verification, GECOM will be unable to ensure a credible election.

CANNOT WIN FAIRLY

“When they realise—as

the right to vote once they are registered.

According to him, any attempt to introduce biometric verification at polling stations would directly infringe on the rights of registered voters.

AG Nandlall pointed out that the courts have already ruled on the matter, upholding that once a person’s name is on the Official List of Electors (OLE), they are entitled to vote.

SAME PLOY USED IN 1997 ELECTIONS

The Attorney-General referenced the election petition filed by Esther Perreira challenging the validity of the 1997 elections.

He noted that the opposition had initially demanded the introduction of voter identification (ID) cards for the elections but later opposed it after the People’s National Congress (PNC) lost the General and Regional Elections that year.

“They lost the elections, and they started the burning, beating, and looting in the streets. Among the things they challenged in the election pe-

void because of the use of the ID cards. Claudette Singh, citing the Constitution, stated that the law requiring an ID card in order to vote added a requirement the Constitution did not have. As a result, that law collided with the Constitution and was therefore unconstitutional,” Nandlall explained.

DIRECTING

ATTENTION FROM THEMSELVES

Commenting on the opposition’s insistence on biometrics for the upcoming polls, Nandlall stated: “They are building the hopes of their supporters, [telling them] that they will …lose because of GECOM and because of the elections not being free and fair. That has been their strategy for decades now. They need to direct the attention away from themselves.

“They are not going to speak about their dismal performance; they are not going to speak about the neglect of their supporters over the past five years. They are going to focus energy and attention on GECOM and the electoral

they have realised now—that they cannot win a fair election, when they realise that they cannot secure the ballots of the electorate in majority to win an election, they always direct their attack and their scrutiny to the electoral system and GECOM,” Minister Nandlall said as he gave a historical review of the opposition’s tainted track record.

Although the opposition is aware that imposing a biometric requirement is unconstitutional, the Attorney-General stated that they continue to promote this narrative because they are poised to lose the elections by a significant margin. He made it clear that the introduction of biometric voting at polling stations would contradict Guyana’s supreme law, as the Constitution provides every eligible citizen

tition was the use of that very ID card they asked for...,” AG Nandlall recalled, reflecting on that dark chapter in Guyana’s history.

Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, the presiding judge in the case and the current chairperson of the GECOM, had ruled that the requirement of ID cards for voting was unconstitutional under Guyana’s Constitution, rendering the 1997 elections null and void. Consequently, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s term was cut short after just three years, leading to new elections.

“Claudette Singh—no other than Claudette Singh—was the judge who heard that election petition. And Claudette Singh ruled in their [PNC] favour. Claudette Singh ruled that the election was null and

person cannot come and vote… You have to be registered, your name must be on a list, and you can only vote at the polling station where your name is on that list. When you turn up at that polling place, you have a presiding officer, an assistant presiding officer, a poll clerk and you have a representative of every political party seated there as polling agents. There is the ink/ stain that is irremovable…,” the legal affairs minister emphasised.

He explained, “So now, they want biometrics. I have

said to you over and over again that we have biometrics in our system already. We have fingerprints, we have photographs, we have distinguishing marks. All of that is in our database.”

The Attorney-General further stated that to be eligible for voter registration, individuals must be at least 18 years old and either a citizen of Guyana by birth, descent, or naturalisation, or a Commonwealth citizen who has resided in Guyana for one year or more.

The GECOM Chairwom-

an has maintained that any major changes to the voting process must be made in accordance with the law and through wide stakeholder consultations.

On January 16, 2025, she ruled against introducing biometric fingerprint identification for voting, citing feasibility issues, legislatives changes and limited time.

“It is GECOM’s place to say that. GECOM is empowered with a plenitude of power to determine how elections are to be held. They are independent; they must determine, in accordance with the law, what can be done and what cannot be done. But the laws, in their current form, must be complied with,” said Nandlall, as he endorsed the GECOM chair’s position.

In response to the opposition's continued attacks on Justice Singh, Nandlall reminded them and his viewers that she was nominated for the position by former President David Granger under the APNU+AFC administration.

process. They will build a case against the electoral process and against GECOM, and when they lose, they will have a basis to tell their supporters, ‘This is exactly what we were speaking about.’”

The Attorney-General also criticised the opposition's habit of changing its stance on electoral matters to serve its own interests, arguing that its demand for unconstitutional biometric requirements is merely a repeat of past tactics.

ADEQUATE SAFEGUARDS AGAINST VOTER

IMPERSONATION

AG Nandlall also rebutted the opposition's claim that adequate safeguards are not in place to prevent voter impersonation at the polls.

“We have several safeguards to ensure that a wrong

Attorney-General Anil Nandlall, SC

Flashback: Voters waiting in line to cast their ballots for the 2020 elections (Photo Credit: AFP)

Brandon Harding makes triumphant comeback: Set to perform at Bob Marley Tribute in Georgetown!

RENOWNED Guyanese musician, Brandon Harding, has announced that he will be making a comeback to the music scene this year.

The Guyanese artiste, widely celebrated for his energetic performances at the former Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company's Jingle and Song competition—where he claimed the title of "Guyana Star 2011"—

as well as his victories at the Carib Soca Monarch competitions in 2018 and 2019, has announced his return to the music scene. He will be performing at a Musical Tribute to Bob Marley on February 7, 2025, at the Pegasus Hotel poolside in Georgetown.

Brandon stated, "I decided to return to music because I was getting calls from different people saying that they

missed my music and my presence on the music scene and on stage. I also realised that I missed my country and my fans. They wanted the Brandon vibes back!"

He expressed that it "feels good" to return to Guyana where he can reconnect with his fans, and celebrate his country and the Guyanese culture, especially during the high anticipated Mashramani

season where all cultures are celebrated as one Guyana. He said, "No matter where I go or how far away, I’m always a Guyanese."

The powerhouse said he intends to pick up where he left off, with a vibe that will showcase how much he has grown as an artiste since he has been away.

Taking a look back, Brandon noted that his music reflected how he felt at the time. He remarked, "I was younger and lived a different lifestyle. The music was organic and true to who I was."

He recalled that his last performance was at a One Guyana concert which was virtual, in 2022. He stated that this was primarily Soca music; however he believes that now he is a more well -rounded musician, and is exploring music in all genres. Brandon affirmed that his music will appeal to a broader base.

According to Brandon, "My brand is not that much

different but at the same time, there are a few new things that fans will see."

In addition to this, Harding revealed that his upcoming work will be a combination of the old and new. He stated that he will be exploring new genres such as the popular afro beats.

In an ever-evolving industry, the two-time Soca Monarch has kept up with the new trends in music, since most of the changes are world-wide.

"I embrace the changes as a part of my growth musically and am excited to see how my music will reflect these new elements. I’ve accessed different platforms such as tik Tok, IG, FB, Spotify, You Tube and other music platforms," he said

Commenting on the challenges in the music scene, Brandon said, "I haven’t experienced that many challenges since I’ve been away because I’ve stayed active musically. I’m still writing and performing here (and)

abroad. I’m also still connected to artistes who are currently active in the industry in Guyana and St. Lucia." For 2025, he stated that fans can expect a Soca EP and some singles, as well as collaborations with various artistes. He will also be working with a new producer form St. Lucia called, Metzo Forte. He has also been writing for artistes who competed in the Soca Monarch competition.

In addition to his performance at the Pegasus Hotel, Brandon will be performing at various Mash festivities this year, and said that his music will reflect that atmosphere. Brandon said he will be performing at Caribana in Canada, and at St. Lucia carnival, adding, "I’m also looking forward to touring in Africa and Japan, and some performances in the US. For Amerindian Month in September, I will be having a show, “Brandon Hardin and Friends”."

Brandon Harding during a previous performance

Ravi B announces first power soca track

TRINIDADIAN chutney-soca star, Ravi B, is shaking things up with his highly anticipated power soca debut, "Love In We."

Produced by Kyle Peters, who co-wrote the track with Ravi B and Collis Duranty. The song is more than just music—it’s a full-on Carnival celebration.

In a reel posted on Instagram, Ravi B shared his journey.

“I did so many things in my musi -

cal journey. So many things. I did chutney soca, I did Bollywood, I did groovy-soca. But the one thing that I always wanted to accomplish was a power soca,” the singer said In the video, Ravi B explains that he would have started power soca projects; however none of them seemed to have the right vibe or formula he was looking for.

He later presented an idea to Kyle Peters, who worked with him on the

track, and helped him to create the masterpiece that is ‘Love In We’.

It was stated that after years of pushing boundaries, the singer is ready to share something that is deeply personal to him; a new chapter in his musical journey.

The post mentioned that Ravi B’s first power soca track presents the energy, passion, and love he has for the culture, and it comes from the heart.

“Everything I put into this song; everything. All of my love. This is it,” he expressed, adding that, “I feel like the whole city coming for this one.”

(Faith Greene)

Fans can connect with Ravi B on Instagram @ravibkarma, Facebook @ravib, Tik Tok @ravibkarma, and Apple Music @ ravi-b.

Trinidadian Chutney Soca Musician(Ravi B /Facebook)

CWI first-class Championships

Savory and Anderson put Guyana in a commanding position after Day 2

By Sean Devers

On the back of outstanding performances from Skipper Kemol Savory and Kevlon Anderson the Guyana Harpy Eagles(GHE), replying to the 346 made by Barbados Pride were 3153 on the second day of CWI’s Regional First-Class four-day tournament at the Providence Stadium yesterday, just 32 runs away from first innings points.

start, grew in confidence as the partnership progressed.

The 21-year-old Nandu hit two sixes, the first from a top- edged hook as pacer Chemar Holder bowled short while the second was well-controlled off Jair McAllister on a track that was not conducive to short bowling.

Chanderpaul also played a classy on-drive which reached the ropes in a flash despite the morning drizzle

When bad light stopped play Anderson was unbeaten on 87 from 125 balls with 14 fours and has shared in an unfinished 179- run fourth-wicket partnership with Savory who has faced 135 balls and reached the boundary 14 times and cleared it once in his undefeated 95.

This was after Tagenarine Chanderpaul (40) and fellow left- hander Matthew Nandu (36) provided a solid foundation with an 88-run opening stand.

After a 15-minute last start due to a slight shower, Guyana began their reply in brilliant sunshine and off the first ball of the day, Chanderpaul cut Forde for four while Nandu, after a circumspect

as the left- handed pair who both play for Everest locally brought up the 50 partnership.

But with the score on 61, Nandu was controversially given out caught and bowled off the bowling of off-spinner Chaim Holder.

Nandu, who hit three fours and two sixes from 58 balls in his 30, stood his ground indicating the ball was hit into the ground.

Perez played a few impetuous shots but his square drive off pacer Chemar Holder was out of the top drawer. By lunch, the second wicket partnership was beginning to be a worry for Barbados.

At the interval, Guyana were 92-2 with Chanderpaul

on 31 and Perez on 20.

After Lunch, Perez had problems against Matthew Forde but attacked the off-spinner Holder hitting the bowler for consecutive boundaries and quickly passing Chanderpaul’s score.

The 50 partnership was soon posted as Chanderpaul continued to be the glue that held the innings together, allowing the others to bat around.

With conditions becom-

were unbeaten at Tea.

Savory was on 26, Anderson on 29 and Guyana on 184-3 After the break, both batters upped the tempo with Savory playing some audacious cuts while Anderson hit off-spinner Chaim Holder for back-to-back boundaries.

Savory reached his third fifty at this level and celebrated with a swept boundary and a lofted six off

ing overcast and a strong breeze blowing across the ground, Chanderpaul pulled Chaim Holder for four while Pere gained confidence the longer he batted.

Leg-spinner Javed Leacock had Chanderpaul caught and bowled after he had faced 119 balls and struck six fours in his 40 to break the 63-run stand with Perez and leave Guyana 124-2.

Twelve runs later Perez fell to fast bowler Jair McAllister for 46 with seven fours to bring skipper Kemol Savory to the crease to join Kevlon Anderson. Together they played with good intent and went after McAllister and both

Alana King helps Australia bag opening

AUSTRALIA continued to dominate England in the Women’s Ashes as they bagged the opening day honours at the MCG in the one-off D/N Test. Alyssa Healy, returning to the XI, had no hesitation on opting to bowl first as the seamers made an immediate impact which was then followed by Alana King weaving her magic with a four-fer to bowl England out for just 170. In reply, the home side lost debutant Georgia Voll but went into the stumps at 56/1, trailing by only 114 runs.

Australia took just four balls to strike as Maia Bouchier edged Kim Garth behind. Tammy Beaumont was the next to depart as the Australian pacers continued to find movement with the new ball to pose questions. While Nat Sciver-Brunt looked steady, Heather Knight was trapped lbw by Garth that reduced the visitors to 47/3. Sophia Dunkley and Sciver- Brunt looked set for the long haul as the pair batted out over 22 overs for their half-century stand but any hopes of an England revival were put to bed by King who broke the

partnership at a vital juncture in the second session. Just when another partnership appeared to be brewing, it was King who came to Australia’ s rescue again with a timely strike. Sciver-Brunt fought hard for a valiant fifty but didn’t find enough support from the lower order. Having already faced over 125 deliveries, Sciver-Brunt was the key to England to try and bat out the entire day. However, in the very first over of the final session, King got one to turn back sharply to castle the half-centurion, to effectively

No opening ceremony for Champions Trophy

THE will-he-or-won’t-he question has been answered. Rohit Sharma can well stay in Dubai - there is no need for him to go to Pakistan. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) have cancelled their planned opening ceremony for captains’ photo-up.

“An opening ceremony was never announced either by the ICC or the PCB,” said a source wellversed with the development. The PCB did not comment but did not deny that there won’t be an opening ceremony or captains’ photo-shoot.

There has been a sense of anticipation on whether Rohit will cross the Wagah, the first time a current Indian player would have stepped into the Pakistani soil since 2008. It will no longer be needed as there are no official functions for this.

pointed out. All 10 captains were called for a press conference in Ahmedabad, before the start of the 2023 World Cup.

The organisers explained that an opening ceremony or an official gathering of the captain was not possible because of different dates of arrival of the teams in Pakistan. The England team, currently in India, is reaching Lahore on February 18, almost a week after playing the last ODI, in Ahmedabad on February 12. It is being said that the England team is taking a break after the India white ball series.

Australia will be reaching Pakistan on February 19, five days after finishing their two-Test series in Sri Lanka on February 14. England and Australia, both in the same group, are slated to play in Lahore on February 22. “Both the sides have taken a break en-route to Lahore,” the source said.

Holder to post the hundred stand. His fifty lasted 67 balls and was decoratedwith eight fours. 87

The twenty-four- yearold Anderson reached his third half- century from 80 balls with eighth fours before caressing Forde for a boundary to post the 250.

The left-handed Savory was dropped by wicket Keeper Demetrius Richards when he was on 62.

With the floodlights on, Anderson and Savory scored freely before bad light stopped play at Caption: 5:32 The action is scheduled to commence at 9:45 AM on the third day, today.

day honours

end England’s resistance. Voll, opening the innings with Healy moving down to the middle order, started off in fine fashion with a boundary off Lauren Bell. But the bowler got her revenge as Voll chased a full delivery outside off, only to edge it behind to the keeper. Phoebe Litchfield and Annabel Sutherland were more than happy to bide their time and not risk it in the final session before collecting a few boundaries right at the death to rubberstamp Australia’s opening day dominance.

The authorities cite recent examples to substantiate the argument that no opening ceremony was planned. “ The last opening ceremony with all the participating players taking part was held in Dhaka 2011. Never after,” said a source.

The diplomatic dynamic cannot be overlooked in this decision. The Indian government has been red-flagging the cricket team’s visit to Pakistan. It can only be a conjecture if it has opposed the captain’s travel to Karachi, where an opening ceremony was reportedly planned. But Rohit not going to Pakistan is in line with the government’s policy.

To emphasise the point, the organisers emphasise that no photo-shoot was held before the last Twenty20 World Cup in the West Indies and then the US. “Nor was there a press conference before the tournament started,” it was

“Because the two sides will arrive either a day before or on the day of the opening match, all captains will not be available in the lead-up to the tournament. As such, no captains’ photo-shoot or joint-press conference will be held,” the source said, confirming that India’s captain will not be needed in Pakistan.

It has been learned that the PCB will go ahead with the pre-event ceremonies that were planned to unveil the refurbished stadiums in the country. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will inaugurate the renovated Gaddafi Stadium on February 7 while President Asif Ali Zardari will do the same at the National Stadium in Karachi on 11. Locally, the PCB will conduct an inaugural of the Champions Trophy on February 16. The inauguration will be held at the Lahore Fort in which top PCB and ICC officials will be present. (Cricbuzz)

FRIDAY , JANUARY 31, 2025 ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S

ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: (1) Clive Lloyd (vs AUST, Kingston, 1984) (2) Javed Miandad (vs IND, Lahore, 1989)

TODAY’S QUIZ:

(1) What was the result of the second Test of the just-concluded WI/PAK series? (2) Who copped the Man of the Match Award?

Kevlon Anderson is unbeaten on 87 from 125 balls.

Skipper Kemol Savory is unbeaten on 95.

Charrandas Persaud makes further contributions to ‘Project Cricket Gear’

FORMER Guyana High Commissioner to India and former Member of Parliament, Charrandas Persaud, has, once again, showed his love for cricket and confidence in Project “Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana,” the joint initiative between Anil Beharry of Guyana and Kishan Das of the USA.

The attorney-at-law donated four cricket bats, 12 red cricket balls and two pairs of batting gloves to the project. Persaud’s total contributions to this project are nine cricket bats, 24 red balls and two pairs of batting gloves. He disclosed that he was impressed with the initiative,

which was reaching out to young and aspiring cricketers, male and female, across the length and breadth of Guyana.

The project took the opportunity to thank the Berbician for his continued support. “This project is pleased to be part of the development of young cricketers in Guyana and aims to keep them off the streets and get them actively involved in sports, cricket in particular.”

Total cricket related items received/purchased so far: $460,000 in cash, 13 coloured cricket uniforms, one set of stumps, two trophies, 32 pairs of cricket shoes, 35 pairs of batting pads, 46 cricket bats, 44 pairs of batting gloves, 26 thigh pads,

three pairs of wicket-keeping pads, six arm guards, two chest pads, two boxes, 12 cricket bags, 13 bat rubbers, six helmets, one fiber glass bat, one pair of floppy hat, 14 boxes plus four white cricket balls, 13 boxes of red cricket balls, one bat cone and 28 footballs.

To date, 93 young players, male and female, from all three counties of Guyana have benefitted directly from cash, eight gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, 35 bats, four boxes, six helmets, 35 pairs of cricket shoes, 25 pairs of batting pads, 27 thigh pads, one bat grip, 45 pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicket-keeping pads and three pairs of wicket-keeping

gloves. 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 received 13 coloured uniforms while RHCCCC received six boxes of balls, 15 white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicket-keeping gloves, two sets of stumps and bails.

Other beneficiaries are the Essequibo Cricket Board, the Town of Lethem, youth coach Travis Persaud (one box of red cricket balls), male and female teams playing the tradition -

Windies Women wrap up T20 series with demolition of Bangladesh

BASSETERRE, St Kitts,

(CMC) – Led by an impressive half century from opener Qiana Joseph and another destructive innings by power hitter Deandra Dottin, West Indies Women easily brushed aside Bangladesh Women by 106 runs in the second T20I here at Warner Park to wrap up the series with a game to spare.

Joseph lashed 63 from 36 balls, her second T20I half century, while Dottin barely missed out on her second consecutive T20I half century, as West Indies Women posted their second highest T20I total of 201 for six.

Cherry-Ann Fraser then snared two early wickets and Bangladesh was restricted to 101 for seven from their 20 overs and West Indies took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Bangladesh would have been hoping for a change of fortunes after winning the toss once again but choosing to field

this time around.

However, they were made to instantly regret that decision after Joseph and her skipper Hayley Matthews launched an assault on their bowlers in the opening overs. Medium pacer Fariha Trisna was hit by Joseph for two boundaries in the first two balls of the day, and Joseph followed that up by smashing off-spinner Sultana Khatun for three successive boundaries in the next over.

Matthews joined in on the action, hammering Trisna for three more boundaries as West Indies rocketed to 34 without loss after three overs.

But right after hitting pacer Lata Mondal for two boundaries in the fifth over, Matthews was bowled by leg-spinner Rabeya Khan for 27 as she attempted a cut shot, to make the score 53 for one in the sixth over.

Fahima Khatun then breached the defence of Shemaine Campbelle to bowl her for 11 three overs later with the

score on 70.

Dottin arrived at the crease and showed that she meant business, slog sweeping Khatun for three sixes in the same over.

Joseph, not to be outdone, then bludgeoned Trisna for two fours and two sixes in the 10th over, the last of which brought up her half century.

But after striking a few more boundaries, Joseph was stumped trying to hit Khan out of the ground, to end their 63-run partnership that required less than four overs.

She faced 36 balls and struck nine fours and two sixes.

Dottin continued her aggression, hitting leg-spinner Shorna Akter for two fours and a six off consecutive deliveries and looked set to complete her 15th T20I half century when she was caught at long-on for 49 trying to hit another six, to leave the West Indies 160 for four in the 15th over.

Shabika Gajnabi then hit an unbeaten 24 from 12 balls

to bolster the team’s final total.

Fahima Khatun was the pick of Bangladesh’s bowlers with 3-38, while Rabeya Khan took 2-26.

Needing to score at over 10 runs an over, Bangladesh Women never mounted a serious challenge after losing three wickets inside the power play.

Fraser accounted for the wickets of both openers, Dilara Dola for eight and Sobhana Mostary for a four-ball duck and spinner Zaida James had Taj Nehar stumped for five, as the visitors slumped to 24 for three.

Sharmin Akter, who topscored with 22 and captain Nigar Sultana Joty tried to revive the innings in a 28-run partnership, but once Joty was bowled by Afy Fletcher for 10, the remainder of the Bangladesh batting crumbled as they lost six wickets for 41 runs.

Matthews, Fraser and Fletcher each took two wickets apiece.

Bermuda, T&T among eight teams to register second win in Concacaf Women’s U-17 tourney

TRINIDAD and Tobago, Bermuda, Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, and Puerto Rico all secured their second win on the trot in their respective Concacaf Women’s U-17 Qualifiers groups on Wednesday.

All eight teams moved to six points, but will still have all to play for in their final group fixtures as only the group winners and the two best second-placed teams are set to progress.

In Group A, host Puerto Rico, through Michaela Poidomani’s 38th-minute strike, edged Cayman Islands 1-0 at Estadio Centroamericano in Mayagüez.

Bermuda then slammed St Vincent and the Grenadines 5-1 in the feature game of the double-header.

Evans Welch (60th), Milan Gibbons (62nd, 85th), Avani Patton ( 77th), and Keyandae Lightbourne (89th) got Bermuda’s goals in the come-from-be-

hind win after Stephanie Hunte (31s) gave St Vincent and the Grenadines an early lead.

With the win, Bermuda assumed pole position in the group with a better goal difference to Puerto Rico, whom they will meet in a top-of-the-table clash to decide the group winner. Cayman Islands and St Vincent and Grenadines are without a point and out of contention.

Over in Group B, Honduras blanked US Virgin Islands 4-0 in the curtain-raiser at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva, Trinidad and Tobago. A brace from Jazlyn Sánchez (10th, 16th), and one each from Alexandra Merriam (54th) and Stephany Mercado (68th) got the job done for the Central Americans.

In the feature contest, host Trinidad and Tobago blanked Belize 2-0 courtesy of Cherina Steele (30th) and Rori Gittens (49th). The Twin Island Repub -

Part of the action in Wednesday’s Concacaf games

lic sit atop the group on six points and a one-goal difference ahead of Honduras (six points), heading into the group decider. Belize and US Virgin Islands are without a point and out of contention.

Elsewhere in Group C, braces from Sunehri Borrego (13th, 47th) and Marianelis Reyes (41st, 83rd) propelled Cuba to a comfortable 5-0 over Turks and Caicos Islands at Estadio Olímpico Félix Sánchez in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

al hardball and softball in the Upper Corentyne area, No.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, Malteenoes Sports Club (nine cricket balls each), Kendall’s Union Cricket Club with two boxes of red balls, Lower Corentyne, Corentyne Comprehensive and JC Chandisingh Secondary Schools with 12 red balls each.

Anyone interested in making a contribution can contact Anil Beharry on 623 6875 or Kishan Das on 1 718 664 0896.

Yorke includes two teenagers in squad to face Jamaica

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – Soca Warriors head coach, Dwight Yorke, has named teenage sensations Derrell Garcia and Lindell Sween in a 23-man squad that will play Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz in two international friendlies next month.

The first friendly is slated to be played on February 6 at the Catherine Hall Stadium, Montego Bay, with the second game scheduled for February 9 at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex in Kingston.

Speaking during a recent Zoom meeting, Yorke said he was impressed with what he had seen from the two youngsters.

Garcia, 17, and Sween, 18, are both attacking players who play with flair, and along with their dribbling ability can be a handful for defenders.

“We’ve got two young players that I have seen in the domestic game, and we have watched them quite carefully and those two players remind me when I started playing football for the national team.

Yaiselis López (86th) got Cuba’s other goal, as they sit level on six points with leaders Panama, who hold a superior four goal difference after they clipped Guyana 3-2 in the other group encounter.

Shaday Mow (second), Isabella Rendino (seventh), and Yasselis Magallon (73rd) got on the scoresheet for Panama, while Avril Pasvolsky (12th) and Veronica Chatta (83rd) got Guyana’s goals.

Meanwhile, Group D lead-

“When you look at Derrel Garcia…he reminds me that we do have talent and we have the boy Sweeny who is also a young talent that I like…we want to integrate them,” Yorke said.

“This is an opportunity

ers El Salvador mauled Curacao 6-0, while Guatemala blanked Anguilla 5-0 in that double-header at Estadio Nacional in Managua, Nicaragua. Linda Galindo (22nd), Keanna Vanterpool (39th), Emily Patzan (55th), Safiyah Gaskin ( 69th), and Victoria Godoy (76th) did the damage for Guatemala against Anguilla.

again to view the players, look at them, integrate our philosophies and ideas.

“As we go through the selection of the players, we have added a few new faces to make sure no stone is unturned. We looked at every possible footballer that is available to us – from college football (Secondary Schools Football League), right up to the men’s senior team and the domestic game,” he added.

The Soca Warriors will use the upcoming friendlies as preparation for the Concacaf Gold Cup preliminary playoffs in March, where they will play twice against Cuba – away on March 21 and at home on March 25.

Squad

Goalkeepers: Marvin Phillip, Aaron Enill, Jabari St Hillaire.

Defenders: Darnell Hospedales, Jamal Jack, Isaiah Garcia, Justin Garcia, Josiah Trimmingham, Jesse Williams.

Midfielders: Tyeres Bailey, Kevin Molino, Nathaniel James, Joevin Jones, Noah Powder, Steffen Yeates, Michael Poon Angeron, John Paul Rochford, Adriel George, Lindell Sween, Kaihim Thomas.

Forwards: Derrel Garcia, Isaiah Lee, Jariel Arthur, Brent Sam.

El Salvador’s goals against Curacao came from Angelina Carrillo (ninth, 17th), Maya Buerger (15th, 28th), Zoe Castro (75th), and Ava Rodriguez (83rd). The Central Americans will meet in the top-of-the-table clash, while Curacao and Anguilla will aim to salvage pride in their game of academic interest. ( Sportsmax )

Charrandas Persaud

Derrell Garcia

Andrew hits 57 as Leewards close

day two with comfortable 347-run lead over West Indies Academy

THE Leeward Islands Hurricanes ended day two of their opening round West Indies Championship fixture against the West Indies Academy at Coolidge with a commanding lead of 347 runs on second innings.

The Hurricanes started Thursday’s play 290-6 off 90 overs in their first innings with Jahmar Hamilton and captain Rakheem Cornwall at the crease on 67 and 13, respectively.

They faced a further 12.3 overs on Thursday, eventually being dismissed for 358. Hamilton carried his overnight score to 81 while Cornwall made 49 as Joshua Bishop added three wickets on Thursday to his four on Wednesday to finish with figures of 7-85 from 32 overs, a career-best and his second five-wicket haul in first class cricket.

In reply, the Academy offered very little resistance with the bat before being dismissed for just 145 in 39.3 overs.

Carlon Bowen-Tuckett with 34 and Rivaldo Clarke

with 29 were the only Academy batsmen to get any score of significance as both pace and spin proved to be too much for the others to handle.

skipper Cornwall was among the wickets as always with 3-33 from his 10.3 overs.

Left-arm seamer Colin Archibald also provided good

Debuting pacer Cameron Pennyfeather was the pick of the Hurricanes bowlers with 3-15 from six overs while

Jewel Andrew

support with 2-48 from 11 overs.

At stumps, the Leewards reached 134-4 from 35 overs

Blackwood’s all-round prowess on display as Scorpions tighten grip on Volcanoes

Jamaica Scorpions stamped their authority on their opening West Indies Championship encounter against Windward Islands Volcanoes, as they held a commanding 214-run lead at stumps on day two at Arnos Vale on Thursday.

Resuming on 291-7, the Scorpions, led by former West Indies vice -captain Jermaine Blackwood, who converted his overnight 101 into a solid 109, pushed their first-innings total to 337. However , it was with the ball that Blackwood truly shone, as he teamed up with pace-bowling all-rounder Odean Smith to snatch three wickets each and limit the Volcanoes to 195.

With a 142-run first-innings lead, Scorpions’ openers Kirk McKenzie and Carlos Brown made further inroads with a steady 72-run stand in their second turn at bat. Though Brown fell for 30 in the final over of the day, McKenzie remained unbeaten on 36 and will resume on Friday’s penultimate day alongside captain John Campbell.

Scores: Jamaica Scorpions 337 & 72-1; Windward Islands Volcanoes 195

Blackwood managed just eight more runs before falling for 109 after a 40-run partnership with Jeavor Royal (26). Marquino Mindley chipped in with a brisk 10 off nine balls before he was trapped leg-before-wicket by Daurius Martin, and Royal was last to depart as the Scorpions wrapped up their innings on 337.

Martin (2-74), Darel Cyrus (2-26), and Gilon Tyson (2-66) shared six wickets among them for the Volcanoes , but the damage had already been done. In response, the Volcanoes found themselves in early trouble against an inspired Scorpions attack. Blackwood, showing his all-round capabilities, ripped through the top order as he took the scalps of Stephan Pascal (30), Keron Cottoy (0), and Jeremy Solozano (13).

Mindley then removed captain Sunil Ambris for 20, caught behind, and the Volcanoes were wobbling at 67-4. A brief recovery followed as Shadrack Descarte (36) and wicketkeeper Gian Benjamin (8) put on 55 for the fifth wicket. However, their resistance was shortlived as they both departed

within the space of an over, with the score at 122-6.

Ryan John mounted a lone battle and topscored with 41 off 96 balls, but his efforts proved futile as partners dwindled. Kenneth Dember (15) and Cyrus (one) fell cheaply before Smith wrapped up the innings, taking care of John and Martin (four) to dismiss the Volcanoes for 195.

Blackwood finished with impressive figures of 3-27 from eight overs, while Smith returned 3-55 from 12.4 overs, as both ensured the Scorpions secured first-innings honours and a vital 142-run lead.

Determined to press home their advantage, McKenzie and Brown produced a far better start than in the first innings. The pair looked composed in their 72-run stand before Brown, on 30 from 44 balls, edged Dember behind to wicketkeeper Benjamin in the dying moments of the day.

Though his dismissal ended the day on a bittersweet note for the Scorpions, they remain firmly in control and will look to pile on an unassailable lead. (Sportsmax)

in their second innings for a lead of 347.

Teenage sensation Jewel Andrew has, so far, top scored with 57 off just 48 balls including 10 fours and a six while another debutant, Shelton Forbes, ended the day 38* off 96 balls.

With him at the crease was night watchman Colin Archibald who was yet to score.

Bishop has taken 2-52 from 13 overs so far in the second innings.

SUMMARIZED SCORES:

Leeward Islands Hurricanes 358 all out in 102.3 overs (Jahmar Hamilton 81, Karima Gore 59, Rakheem Cornwall 49, Kadeem Henry 48, Joshua Bishop 7-85) & 134-4 in 35 overs (Jewel Andrew 57, Shelton Forbes 38*, Joshua Bishop 2-52)

West Indies Academy 145 all out in 39.3 overs (Carlon Bowen-Tuckett 34, Rivaldo Clarke 29, Cameron Pennyfeather 3-15, Rakheem Cornwall 3-33, Colin Archibald 2-48). (Sportsmax)

Warriors win despite Gilgeous-Alexander’s 52 points

THE Golden State Warriors withstood a 52-point haul from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to beat Western Conference leaders Oklahoma Thunder 116-109.

Canada’s Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points in the first half as his side led 58-48 at the break but Golden State fought back to pull away for victory.

The home side were led by Andrew Wiggins’s 27 points, while Stephen Curry scored 17 of his 21 in the second half.

“We just stayed solid. Just all around effort,” said Curry.

“We need every win possible. We haven’t really developed anything consistent in terms of the win column. So this is a great test.”

Despite defeat, Thunder remain top of the Western Conference while Golden State

improve their record to 24-23.

In Wednesday’s other matches, the Cleveland Cavaliers maintained their lead over defending champions the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference with victory over the Miami Heat.

The Cavs, who were missing Darius Garland, Caris LeVert and Isaac Okoro, were led by 34 points from Donovan Mitchell in a 126-106 win.

The Celtics thumped the Chicago Bulls 122-100 with Kristaps Porzingis sinking eight three- pointers in his score of 34.

Elsewhere, there were wins for the New York Knicks over the Denver Nuggets, the Indiana Pacers against the Detroit Pistons, while the Los Angeles Clippers beat the San Antonio Spurs.

Golden State Warriors are 11th in the Western Conference.

‘We have great confidence in this team making us proud’

--President Ali encourages Junior Jaguars to excel at upcoming qualifiers, commits to further enhancement of facilities

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali lauded the Junior Jaguars, Guyana’s Under-17 football team, for their drive, and expressed confidence in their future undertakings, during a training session on Thursday afternoon at the National Training Centre in Providence.

The team is currently training to participate in the CONCACAF U17 World Cup Qualifiers from February 7-16, 2025.

The Junior Jaguars are placed in Group B and will tackle

Trinidad and Tobago, the British Virgin Islands, Sint Maarten and host Costa Rica. If Guyana gains qualification, they will participate in the FIFA U17 World Cup being hosted in Qatar from November 5 to 27.

“I want you to know that when I speak to you today, I’m speaking to you on behalf of all of Guyana, all the people of Guyana. We have great confidence in this team making us proud,” President Ali stated.

The Head of State, who made a sizeable donation to the venture, also pledged his government’s further support.

He said: “Today, I also wanted to let you know that even the facilities that you see here, we’re going to invest, from a government perspective, in further improving the facility, and also we are going to invest in you.”

President of the Guyana Football Federation, Wayne Forde, was also present.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali lauded the Junior Jaguars, Guyana’s Under-17 football team, for their drive, and expressed confidence in their future undertakings, during an engagement with the team on Thursday (Office of the President)