Exxon oil contract a legalized form of highway banditry
“The oil agreement we have is a legalized form of highwaybanditry.”Thisavid description of the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement(PSA)wasmade by Publisher of Kaieteur News,Mr GlennLallduring an interview with one of the largest media outlets in the United States, the Financial Times.
In an article released on Tuesday, the Financial Times reported that Lall has criticized both the government and Opposition for mismanaging the relationship with the oil companies and argued that the Guyanese are getting “chickenfeed”.
Lall also noted that Exxon, the oil industry and the government are increasingly acting in concert to stymie criticism, including by hiring several KaieteurNewsjournalists.
Meanwhile, President of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), Alistair RoutledgetoldtheFinancial Times that Lall’s activism was hinged on his political aspirations.Accordingtothe Financial Times, Routledge dismissed Lall as a constant critic with political ambitions and “an axe to
grind”, adding that “this is a competitive contract that is bringing investment into the country.”
The Publisher in response to the comments made by Routledge argued that as a citizen of Guyana, he is entitled to not only speak in defence of his country, but pursue any
careerhedesires.
“I find Routledge’s statement about me very rude and disrespectful.As a citizen of this country, I am entitledtopursueanycareer or say and do anything I so choosetodo.WhetherIwant to enter politics or not, it’s my prerogative,” Lall asserted.
H
ExxonMobil is threatened thatthelopsidedoildealwill be subjected to a complete overhaul,whileotheractsof mismanagement will not be tole
stewardship.
Lall added, “But let me say this, had he and his company given this country
a fair deal, he would have been happy to talk to the Financial Times about what Guyana is receiving rather than push his mouth in the domestic affairs of who is aspiring to be political leaders. Mr Routledge and his company know that if there is any change in this country, that wholesale thievery going on will come toafullstopthenextday.”
Further, Lall questioned whether any decent and patriotic leader would sit quietly and allow the sector to be mismanaged. “Any patriotic leader would allow Exxon to pump oil without their own meters? Any true leader would allow those projects to be approved without ring-fencing? Would allow them to invest without capping the interest rates? Would continue givingthemprojectswithout
Continuedonpage23
President, ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge
Publisher of Kaieteur News, Mr. Glenn Lall
Show us the production forecast for Liza One and Liza Two -Civilsociety activist
...as concerns swell over feasibility of Gas-to-Energy project
Diagram showing the two FPSOs to be used in the GTE project and the additional infrastructure to generate electricity.
As concerns continue to balloon over the feasibility of government’s US$2B Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project, civil society activist Elizabeth Hughes is requesting information on the production forecast of the two projects that will supply gas to the power plant.
The GTE project comprises three elements,
the pipeline to transport the gas - presently being constructed by ExxonMobil - a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility to treat the gas and a power plant to generate some 300 megawatts of electricity is being pursued by the government.
Hughes in a letter addressed to the Minister of Natural Resources,Vickram
Bharrat; the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and GTE Taskforce, last week requested the production forecast of the projects, as these are expectedtosupplythepower plant with gas over its 20yearlifetime.
Theactivist’slettertothe respective agencies comes amidst ramped up oil production at both projects
by ExxonMobil. This has therefore sparked further questions about the feasibility of the project, since depleted oil wells will force the operator to turn to other projects for gas to supplythepowerplant.
Notably, the Liza One project which commenced productionactivitiesin2019 was designed to produce up to 120,000 barrels per day (bpd) while Liza Two was designedtoproduce220,000 bpd.Bothhaveanestimated life of 20 years. Presently, the two projects are each producing 150,000 bpd and 250,000 bpd, respectively
T h i s c o u l d f o r c e ExxonMobil to turn to its other oil producing developments to meet the gas demand for the power plant which would inevitably drive up the cost oftheGTEproject.
Government in April 2023 applied to the US EXIM Bank for a loan to
Civil society activist, Elizabeth Hughes
support the NGLand power plant aspects of the GTE project.
Since the government did not conduct a feasibility study,thebankconductedits own assessment of the projectandissaidtobeinthe process of reviewing its findings before a final decision is made regarding the US$646M loan application.
Hughes in her letter requested that the productionprofileforecasts; reservoir performance evaluation and prediction; decommissioning plan and risk management be shared for the Liza One and Liza Twoprojects.
The activist further requested these details for thePayara,Yellowtail,Uaru
ThetoptwoUSoilcompaniesarelockedinawarfor30% ofGuyana’slucrativeStabroekbasin. BothExxonMobiland Chevron, ranked number 1 and 2 respectively in the US, and inthetop10globaloilcompanies,arenotyieldinganinchin this struggle for a piece of Guyana’s rich oilfields. For ExxonMobil, it is expanding its already huge 45% footprint in the Stabroek Block to a gigantic 75% control of Guyana’s young but proven oilfields. Gigantic could turn out to be a monsterforthegovernmentandGuyanesepeople,onethatis uncontrollable and unchallengeable. For Chevron Corp, success with its 30% stake would mean getting its foot in the door of the most exciting oil play in the world.The prospects ofgreatprosperityaresohighthatbothcompaniesareputting their best efforts to win, with many resources and man hours thrownintowhathasalreadygiveneveryindicationofafight to the death. Amid this corporate struggle between two American oil elephants, there is an irony that staggers the imagination, so unbelievable it is. The Government of Guyana is also fighting a war, but it is not against predatory, exploitative foreign oil companies from West and East. The most draining battle being fought is the one that Guyana’s PPP/CGovernmentiswagingagainstGuyanese.
There is no argument that the battle royal going on betweenExxonMobilandChevronoverthe30%shareofthe Stabroek Block is worth every penny spent for the winner The square mileage and acreage are vast. The explorations have yielded a steady stream of billion-barrel discoveries. The oil is of a high quality And, best of all, it is cheap. Thoughconsignedtotheroleofabystander,iftheCEOofthe HessCorporation,JohnHess,cangethissaletoChevronover the finish line, it would be a big payday for his once cash strapped and bottom feeding third rate Oil Company Mr Hess can’t wait to get his hands on the US$53B that he sold his entire company for to Chevron. It is an enormous price, but such is the high value of the crown jewel in the Hess Corporation’s portfolio of assets. It is its 30% share in Guyana’s Stabroek Block that never seems to stop gushing oil. ExxonMobil has reaped incredible returns; Hess Corporation did so and now stand in excited anticipation of cashing in still further Meanwhile, Chevron crosses its fingers and bides its time. A third arbitrator must be found, anditissomeonewhomustbeacceptabletobothcompanies. This is where the Guyana Stabroek Block fight is stuck currently ItisafightthatmakestheonebetweentheGuyana Teachers’ Union and the Guyana Government look like child’splay TheHesstoChevronsalewouldstillhavetoget the clearance of US regulators who are concerned about possibleantitrustviolations.
Over here, the PPP/C Government is a picture of unconcern. Instead of finding a way to capitalize on the ExxonMobil-Hess-Chevron developments, the Guyana Government prefers to concentrate its energies on crushing any oil disagreements from Guyanese. Limited audits have revealed that ExxonMobil is first tricking Guyana with its multibillion-dollar-invoices, then introducing every kind of delaying action to wear down the will of the PPP/C Government. The Guyana Government should be the fiercest local force standing up to ExxonMobil and twisting its nose out of joint, so that more can come into the local coffers. Instead,thePPP/CGovernmentanditsleadershave been shameless in groveling before the American oil supergiant and selling out the interests of Guyanese for a pittance. Worse,theleadersthatGuyaneseelectedtobetheir government, to manage their oil patrimony well, have turned around and declared war against them. To speak against ExxonMobil amounts to treason. To push for more from ExxonMobilforitspresenceinGuyana’soilfieldsmakesthat citizen an unpardonable enemy in the eyes of the PPP/C Government. It is the same in the circle of self-enriching cronies, families, and con men. Oil companies battle it out for Guyana’s treasure, while the PPP/C Government targets itsowncitizenstokeepExxonMobilhappy
The Political Calculations Behind the “Because We Care” Grant
DEAREDITOR, Addressing Financial government can shift the image and secure its
The “Because We Care” Needs: More Than Just focus away from its position. It is crucial for Grant, a one-off cash grant Benevolence - The grant is shortcomingsandtowardsits citizens to remain vigilant initiative by the government, intended to help individuals efforts to support the and critically assess such isacarefullycraftedmeasure who are struggling to afford populace. initiatives. True care and aimed at providing financial certain necessities, thereby Buying Support and supportshouldbereflected assistance to individuals in cushioningthecostofliving. Loyalty - The grant can also inconsistentandlong-term need. On the surface, this This is a practical and be seen as an attempt to p o l i c i e s a i m e d a t initiative seems altruistic, necessary intervention for influence public opinion of improving the overall welldesignedtoalleviatesomeof many, especially in the PPPled government, buy being of the population, the financial burdens faced economically challenging support or, at the very least, rather than in sporadic, by citizens. However, the times. However, the grant’s the perception of support. strategically timed name and timing of the grant true impact extends beyond Financial assistance, handouts. reveal a deeper political the immediate financial especially in times of need, The “Because We Care” strategyatplay relief.Itservesasapacifier,a can significantly influence Grant is a classic example of
A Strategic Name: tool to quell dissatisfaction public opinion. Recipients how governments use “Because We Care” - The and to garner favour among of the grant may feel a financial incentives to shape choice of naming the grant the electorate. Ironically, it sense of gratitude or public perception and “Because We Care” is not is a recognition that obligation towards the political loyalty While the coincidental. It serves a dual Guyanese are experiencing a government, translating grant provides immediate purpose: it positions the highcostofliving,andmany into increased political relief to those in need, it also government as empathetic of our incomes are unable to support or diminished serves the government’s and responsive to the needs adequately provide for our criticism. This strategy is interests by portraying it as of its citizens, and it mostbasicneeds. particularly effective in c o m p a s s i o n a t e a n d reinforces a narrative of
APoliticalCalculation- societies where public responsive. It is imperative b e n e v o l e n c e a n d
In politics, timing is opinion and voter sentiment for the public to look beyond compassion. By explicitly e v e r y t h i n g T h e play crucial roles in the surface and understand stating “Because We introduction of the determiningpoliticalpower the political calculations Care,” the government is “Because We Care” Grant The Illusion of Care - behind such initiatives. True essentially branding itself often coincides with While the grant undoubtedly progress lies in holding as the savior and protector periods of heightened provides much-needed governments accountable of its people. This creates a scrutiny or criticism of the financial relief, it is essential for their actions and positive association between government. Whether it’s a to recognize it as part of a demanding sustained and the government and the scandal, policy failure, or broader political strategy meaningful policies that assistance provided, which economic downturn, the The government’s portrayal genuinelyimprovethelives can be strategically grant serves as a diversion. of itself as caring and ofcitizens. beneficial, especially during By providing immediate responsive is a calculated Regards, timesofpublicdiscontent. financial relief, the movedesignedtoenhanceits C.A. Singh
OBSTINATE SAMMY TO BE BLAMED 100%
DEAREDITOR, bethefirsttoadmitthatIwas the need to change the Sammy had no intentions of My former teachers can wrongaboutChase. strategy, but Sammy playing Hetmyer Once attest to the fact that I always Let me hasten to add that remained resolute in his Hetmyer was selected, he had a good handwriting and in all my life listening to and flawed conviction that his should have been given his took copious notes, and this watching cricket, I have method was the answer role and allowed to perform attribute has served me well never seen or heard of despite other teams making it. If he failed, it would have over the years even up to this pitches as ridiculous as what the required adjustments. It been justifiable to drop him. day SowhenDarrenSammy has been prepared for this was clear that he had no Instead, he was fetching made that eye raising World cup. Bridgetown and backup plan and as a water and suffered the comment on the possibility GrosIsletwereok,butallthe consequence would rather ultimate disrespect when of selecting Shamar Joseph others were disgraceful to live in hope and die in Myers was brought into the into the West Indies T20 saytheleast. despair And die did he and t e a m a n d p l a y e d World Cup team, having West Indies selectors, West Indies hopes of immediately Is Myers a already selected Johnson including Sammy, having winningtheT20WorldCup. better batsman then Charles who had failed selected the team, clearly HavingselectedShimron Hetmyer? And was Myers miserably the previous suggested by its composition, Hetmyer, it was expected innings different from what e l e v e n m a t c h e s , I that players were selected to that he would have been told Charles had been playing? immediately recalled the St. performspecificrolesandthe ofhisroleandgivenachance And people question Lucian West Indies cricket presumption was, and it was to execute. I can understand Hetmyer’s actions when it administrators duo of Hunte obvious, that West Indies Rutherford’s performance comes to West Indies and Hilarie who ushered in would start quickly (which is justified his selection, but cricket? I say he is in perfect the era of the most blatant why Charles was selected) Charles’ performance was order to act the way he does a n d d i s g r a c e f u l consolidate in the middle not what was planned. He and I hope Shamar Joseph demonstration of insularity (where Chase would come in wasscoringrunsatjustabout tookcopiousnotes. ever It was no coincidence ifquickwicketswerelost)and runaball,tostayintheteam, Once Shepherd was and instructive to note that accelerateattheend,whichis and by the time he got out in dropped, it lengthened the Sammy, an ordinary why Russell, Shepherd and the 10th or 11th over, it was tail and it was asinine to cricketer all his life, was the Hosein were sure picks as difficult to execute the believe that tail enders could mainbenefactor well as for their role in the flawed plan and the big have dealt with difficult It was my opinion that bowlingdepartment hitting batsmen just could pitches which the top order except for Charles and Fromthefirstfewgames, notdeliver. batters could not. Hetmyer is Chase, it was the best West itwasclearthatthesepitches He should have been one of the better players of Indies team selection since were not the common types dropped since then and a spin bowling in the West the Roger Harper team that andwouldrequireadifferent backup plan implemented to Indies team and should have was sent to Bangladesh. approach which would deal with the conditions and been selected to perform the While I could have seen the ultimately determine the realities,insteadSammywas role he is accustomed to for reason for Chase, there was makeup of the playing p e r s i s t e d w i t h h i s hisIPLfranchiseteam.AndI no other justifiable reason eleven The matches in countryman and only daresaythatnoteamplaying for Charles’selection except Guyana and Trinidad dropped him in the must win inthisworldcupwouldhave that he was St. Lucian. I will provided ample evidence of game It was clear that (Continued on page 5)
Satellite Campus is one small step for Aishalton and Reg. 9, one giant step for UG
DEAREDITOR, and implemented under effect of this UG Satellite opportunities is definitely a The headline, “Historic! “ivory towers” approaches. Campus at Aishalton is the key “pull” factor that helps MoU takes UG Satellite The University was aloof potential to arrest the flight intheretentionofourpeople Campus to indigenous from the village people. In ofresidentsoutoftheremote inthehinterlandregions.We
Aishalton Village, ” modern times, in our current regions. I understand when mustalsoprovidetherelated (Newsroom, June 24, 2024) digital and information age, our people of Amerindian servicesineducation,health, is to be celebrated as this everyone can have universal descent and people from economic development, initiative is one small step access to higher education. rural communities come out agriculture, public works, for Aishalton/Rupununi and The internet has become a toGeorgetowntoattendUG, regional development, Region 9, and one giant step great equalizer The UG the Cyril Potter College of administration of justice, fortheUniversityofGuyana initiative should spark more Education (CPCE), or the etc.Peopleshouldreceiveall reaching out to contribute to concerted efforts to improve “town”schools,manydonot G
n internet access to Region 9 want to go back to their efficiently in their own education in the remote and as well as Regions 1, 2, 7, 8, communities when they regions and within the same hinterland areas. Hopefully, 10, and in places in the other graduate. If we do not arrest
this initiative will reach all areas where internet service this trend, those rural Georgetown/Region 4 folks.
o f is poor and not quite
It should not take longer in GeorgetownandRegion4. affordable Free internet depleted of key human theregions. IcallonourGovernment access across Guyana would resources necessary to Digitise all operations in to give full support and be a nice Government goal promote development there. a hurry to push such fundingtothisboldinitiative for the people of Guyana. Government’s planning in efficiency Change colonial of the University of Guyana. Let’s have “One Guyana” in rural communities must be era rules and procedures to There was a time when internet access. Do it for the designed to reduce the speed up
p
, higher education was a children and people of “p
OBSTINATE SAMMY TO BE BLAMED...
rationeditemforaluckyfew, Guyana! accentuatethe“pull”factors. implementation of projects. restricted from the masses, The bigger multiplier Theprovisionofeducational To keep teachers and Government staff there, we must provide housing, transportation, hefty allowances, and every incentive to make those communitiesviable.
From page 4 concern to all the other teams without hadaHetmyerintheirteamandnotplayhim. exception, but the obstinate Sammy who After the first two matches, I called on stuck with his plan despite clear indications socialmediatodropCharles,promotePooran that it was not working and his insularity and toopenthebatting(hehasthecapacitytodeal vindictiveness dictates that he must take full with the spin that was slowing down the responsibilityforWestIndieselimination. scoring rate) and bring in Hetmyer to bat I am not saying that West Indies lost beforeRussellandperformtheroletobatand because they did not play Hetmyer I am finish the innings, because I saw clearly that saying that they lost because Sammy did not the big hitting was not going to work. Brian recognizethathisplanwasineffectiveandhe Lara expressed the same sentiments a few had no backup plan which required a change games after In fact, the innings Rutherford ofstrategyandasaconsequence,changesofa played against New Zealand was the role I fewpersonnel.Andpleasedon’ttellmeabout sawHetmyerplaying.Butofcourse,thatwas West Indies moving up the world rankings. assuming that Sammy had the intellectual Thatwasnottheobjective.Theobjectivewas capacity to recognize that his plan was not to win the T20 World Cup and West Indies going to work and the intelligence to make failedandtheyfailedbecauseoftheobstinate thechangesthatwereneeded. Sammy West Indies had this T20 World Cup to Yours truly, win. They had a good team which was of Eric Whaul
The AFC has moved on
DEAREDITOR,
1968 Fortunately, the
This nation is now aftermath of the 2020 witnessing the implosion of General Elections not only both the PNC and the AFC - exposed theAFC’s penchant the infamous Coalition for corruption and its newly These Parties were not built discovered appetite to on the foundation of shamelessly rig to remain in democracy and nation power but the fact that its building but primarily to leaders have lost their moral achieve power, to hold on to compass and are not it and to use that power for interested in the socioself-aggrandizement The economic progress of this people do not count, they are country. The Alliance on the merely pawns in the scheme Move has stopped moving a ofthings,butthepeoplehave l o n g t i m e a g o a n d now come to realize that and Ramjattan’s ‘dead meat’ most remarkable those prognosticationcametopass within these parties. You to the extent that he himself simply cannot fool all the hasnowostensiblyfledfrom peopleallthetime. thedecomposedcarcass.
The Alliance on the What is most notable is Move (AFC) was built on that the remaining founders lofty ideals and had decried of the AFC are now the ‘corruption’ of the PPP uninterested in the and made claims that they leadership of the Party and were the ‘right turn’ for this the man who resigned a country but having tasted couple of times (2013 and power, they not only became 2016) has now displayed a subservient to the PNC but keeninterestinassumingthe became consumed in their leadership, supposedly to corrupt practices and rigging save the AFC from falling culture. Both Ramjattan and into the ‘wrong hands’ Nagamootoo had fought and Unfortunately, the AFC condemned the PNC for madethe‘wrongturn’since riggingalltheElectionsfrom (Continued on page 6)
I prefer the UG presence atAishalton as local content, superior to the GOAL providers. Thanks to the VC and UG leadership team for such a great initiative Maybe, do the same in the other remote regions too. I wish this project very well. Let’s make sure it succeeds forRegion9.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jerry Jailall Civil SocietyAdvocate
Civil Society groups present feedback on draft Sexual Offences Bill to Govt.
DEAREDITOR, Wewelcomeamendment for storage etc. It is further amendment also does not committed; and(d) all other There is not adequate space
The Ministry of Legal 43A as our understanding is recommendedthatunderthis consider the physical and relevant circumstances (2) to go through this in any AffairshaspublishedaDraft that this allows for provision instruction are psychological trauma that Whether the complaint was detailhere.Butitisclearthat
S e x u a l O f f e n c e s admissibility of written written into this amendment survivors/victims of sexual made as soon as could this new section needs more (Amendment) Bill (2024) on statements once these have to reflect security issues offence suffer, directly reasonably be expected will consultations especially as i t s w e b s i t e a t already been admitted into identified and that there be impeding their ability to depend on the facts of the we are mindful of the https://mola gov gy/draft- evidence.Thisallowcasesto stiff penalties for anyone report sexual offences and particular case. and there is challenges the Guyana bills, and invited feedback continue even in absence of breaking the chain of the more brutal the sexual nooutertimelimit.” PoliceForcehavehadindata fromcitizensonthedraft. claimant/victimorwitnessto custody and releasing or offence the more serious the Wewelcomeamendment collection and maintenance We have reviewed the attendcourtforthefollowing sharingsuchinformation. trauma. 86A Breach of Duty to ofdatabases. amendments and given reasons; death, being On the other hand,
Additionally, if you live Report as it now has We caution that adequate feedback to the Ministry of physically or mentally unfit amendment 72A must be in Indigenous, hinterland, p e n a l t i e s
time and expertise be made Legal Affairs. We think it is to attend trial, out of Guyana removed altogether and the interior or isolated rural amendment is unclear on available for creation of the important to share the andunabletoreturnforgood original wording in 72 (1) of areas, it might be in effect who is an officer of a state or national sex offender data feedback with the public to reasons, cannot be found or the Sexual Offences Act impossible to reach any non-state institution Our base and a public sex encourage wider discussion is being kept away from the (SOA) 2010 be kept placeordesignatedpersonto recommendation is that offenders registry with clear on sexual violence in trial by threat of bodily harm Argumentsforremovingthis reportthesaidsexualoffence these officers should be instructions on accessing Guyanaandtoencouragethe ordeath. amendment are that it turns with the heightened clearly defined, as set out in such information. We also participation of citizens We also welcome the back the clock, fails to possibility of obstruction of Protection of the Children’s are concerned that convicted across Guyana in the amendment to section 56 as acknowledge that the ‘recent prosecutionanoffenceunder Act, and even added to as sex offenders can use the prevention of sexual this allows video recorded complaint’ amendment is the SOA 2010. The section necessary, such as head appeals process not only to violence. statements to be used outdated, debarred, and that the 72A amendment teachers and teachers, social delay sentences but also to
The detailed matrix of including those related to discredited from the seeks to modify is 72. (1) workers, counsellors, delay being added to the sex our feedback is available on sexual offences. This would majority of sexual offence whichstates“Inconsidering coaches, religious leaders, offender’s data base as a Google document at be particularly useful in laws in the majority of whether a recent complaint persons who offer childcare appeals can take many years https://bit.ly/3xcxHZ3. cases of young children and jurisdictionsglobally was made as soon as could services, health care tobeheard.
On amendment 41A no doubt would be Additionally, it fails to reasonably be expected, the professionals – doctors, We hope that the public “Power of Director of Public welcomed by Child recognize, as clearly stated Court shall consider the medexes, nurses, lawyers, will engage with the Prosecutions to remit cases AdvocacyCentres(CAC)s. in SOA 2010, that many following factors - (a) the members of NGO’s, G
nm
n
on the summarily, we have a However, at the same survivors/ complainants of nature of sexual abuse and coroners. amendments. We will also concern that this amendment time, we have great concern sexual offences may not the stigma or humiliation We w e l c o m e t h e present our concerns about gives the DPP sweeping about the challenges of immediately report an SOA often thought to go with inclusion of section IXA - the implementation of some powers to refer matters to be maintaining security for offence due to a number of them, and that they are National Sex Offenders sectionsofthecurrentact. tried summarily in suchvideorecordings. goodreasons. commonly found difficult to Database, but recommend Yours sincerely, MagistrateCourts. As such, we recommend To reinsert such a report (particularly child thatlikeTrinidad&Tobago’s Red Thread Guyana
Our recommendation is at a minimum the following discredited amendment is an sexual abuse); (b) the SOA, Guyana considers Indigenous Delegation that the types of sexual safeguards be put in place: assault on the years of relationshipofthevictimand having not only a restricted against Domestic and offences must be clearly Safe & secure storage activism by women, NGOs accused; (c) the particular sex offenders data base but Sexual Violence identified in 41A, and these systems for such recordings; and members of Guyanese characteristics of the person also a public sex offender Danuta Radzik should be minor sexual c h a i n o f c u s t o d y civil society to have such inrelationtowhomtheabuse registry which can be Vanda Radzik offences. arrangements to ensure language removed, as this is alleged to have been accessed through a website. VidyarathaKissoon
This is important as c o n f i d e n t i a l i t y o f has been responsible for not penaltiesatmagistratecourts r e c o r d i n g s ; c l e a r only many survivors of rape are half of those if treated as identification of those with losing their cases but has an indictable offence before access to such recordings; been a major impediment to judge and jury in the high clearinstructionsastowhere the rights of survivors of court. and who has responsibility sexual abuse to justice. This
The AFC has moved on
From page 5 CanyouimaginethatthePNCrunstheirown its formation and was in the ‘wrong hands’ Party in the same manner they ran this which saw many top members abandoning country? They rigged every Election from theparty Trotmanlaidbarehistrueintentions 1968 onwards to 1985 and then attempted to for the rationale behind the formation of the blatantly rig the 2020 Election as well. They AFC a while back and the last man standing, bankrupted this country and allowed it to Ramjattan has now deserted his post. Where descend to the poorest nation in the Western is the adventurer who ‘serenaded’ and Hemisphere, with the exception of Haiti. waltzed away? Why these strange They stole, mismanaged and squandered happenings? everythingofvalueandreducedustoanation
However, it is not only the AFC which is of mendicants where to put food on the table facing demise. They say karma is a b***h. was a vile criminal act. Why would some Apartfrombeingfacedwithdestructionfrom PNC members still have faith in the PNC within and allegations of rape against the whenitfailsonbothcounts:self-governance current leader, the PNC’s members, andgovernanceofthiscountry? remarkably a person no less than the General The PNC and the AFC are peas from the Secretary, Dawn Hastings-Williams, has same pod and should be rejected by the resigned from her post citing ‘poor financial people of this country having now witnessed accountability, poor preparation for fair and their innate diabolical qualities which can do transparent internal elections’. This speaks nogoodforthiscountryanditspeople. volumes of the true nature of the PNC and its Yours sincerely, strong inclination for corruption and rigging. Haseef Yusuf
Prices, prices, prices!
The price of a chicken $1700to$1900. the school holidays are of many households has not options out of reach for fried rice is now $1400. Even roadside food coming because the cost of kept pace with the rising many During the pandemic, the vendors have upped their providing meals for their costs. Salaries and wages Advantageisbeingtaken pricewas$960.Inamatterof prices. This is the reality children’s lunch kits is increases have not kept of consumers. The increase a few years, the price has facingGuyaneseconsumers. placing a real strain on their abreast with the price in prices cannot be solely sellers believe consumers climbedbymorethan50%. C h i c k e n , a k e y finances. The burden has increasesinthemarket. This attributed to supply chain can and should pay more. Ihavesaidbeforethatthe ingredient in many meals, become so heavy that some growing disparity leaves issues and imported However, the reality is that best way to gauge the has also become more parents are unable to send families with less money to inflation. If these were the most citizens are not seeing increase in the cost of living expensive. The cost of one their children to school. It is cover basic needs.The result only factors, how can we the benefits of the oil istolookatthemovementof pound of plucked chicken is humiliating to see a child is an increased financial explain the significant price economyintheirdailylives. food prices in our Chinese nowG$450.Thisriseinlocal withoutlunchatschoolwhen strain on households, hikes for locally-produced There used to be a time
r e s t a u r a n t s T h e s e food prices therefore cannot theirpeershavefood. particularly those with food? when going to the market businesses only increase simply be attributed to When parents go to the children. Local farmers and just as the vendors were their prices when there is no international factors. There grocery store, they return Nothing in the market vendors are not facing the packinguptogohomemeant other choice available. If has been an increase in the with far fewer goods than now sells for $100. Every same import costs, yet prices getting bargains Vendors you want to know how high costoflocalproduce. they used to Despite bundle of vegetables is now for homegrown vegetables would be keen to sell their is inflation just look at the Parents are particularly spendingthesameamountof $200 and upwards Vine and fruits have skyrocketed. produce cheaper rather than increase in prices for a hard-hitbytheserisingcosts. money, their carts are vegetables like bora sell for Thissuggeststhatbusinesses havetodumpit. chicken fried rice or a Many parents struggle to noticeablyemptier as much as $500 for a small and vendors are taking Not anymore, the chickenchowmein. provide their children with Thisisastarkillustration bundle. This small bundle advantage of the situation vendors would pack up their But it is not only the lunch for school. Whether of how inflation erodes canhardlybeenoughforone rather than reflecting true leftovers and take them Chinese restaurants that they pack a lunch or give purchasing power Families meal for a family Prices are
home and bring them back have increased their prices. theirchildrenmoneytobuya are forced to make difficult rising, making it difficult for exploitation exacerbates the when next they come to sell. Fast food enterprises have mealatschool,thecostshave choices, cutting back on families to afford fresh financial strain on families, They prefer to take it back also increased their prices. becomearealburden. essentials to make ends produce. making basic necessities home and have it rot than At one such place, a 3-piece Some parents are meet.
Dem Boys Seh...
A bargain means a great deal dese days
Bananas, which used to unaffordable. reduce the prices No combo has moved from breathing a sigh of relief that The disposable income retail for as low as $100 per Partoftheproblemisthat bargains are being given to pound, are now $300 per sellers have internalized the late-hourshoppers. pound. Fruits have become a notion that Guyana is an oil Consumers have the luxury that the poor cannot economy and therefore can power to change this state of afford. Five mangoes are afford higher prices. Since affairs, but they refuse to currently selling for $500. the onset of oil production, exerciseit. Thesepriceincreasesmakeit prices have increased, (The views expressed in difficult for families to buy establishing a clear link this article are those of the nutritious fruits. The rising betweentheoileconomyand a u t h o r a n d d o n o t cost of fruits adds to the the movement of prices in necessarily reflect the financial burden on the market. This perception opinions of this newspaper.) consumers, pushing healthy has led to inflated prices, as
Yuh ever tried getting a you ask for a discount, they hours.Itremindeddemboys discount from certain stores does bring it down to the about the de story of a man in Guyana. You could beg price they originally had in who was late for a meeting fromnowtoneverandthese mindtomakeyoufeelnice. and could not find a parking stores would never budge. Nowadays, when space. He kept circling the In fact, some of dem have people hear about sale, they block but could not find items that they do not need lining up since midnight to somewheretopark. but they would rather it cash-inonthebargains.And Desperate he looked to remain there than sell it. when the stores open their the heavens and said, ”Lord They never heard about the doors during a sale, a take pity on me. If you find word discount. It does not stampedetakesplace. me a parking place, I will existintheirvocabulary A bargain today is rarer stop womanizing and stop But who can give then than a 50-carat diamond.As drinking alcohol for the rest wrong? Nowadays, the one man said, “A bargain is ofmylife!” trend is for people, when somethingyoudon’tneedat Miraculously, a parking buyinganitem,todemanda apriceyoucan’tresist. place appeared. The man discount. But smarter de Finding a bargain in looked up to the heavens population wiser de Guyana is like finding a again and said, ”Never businesses They does parking space in downtown mind,Ifoundone.” increasethepricesandwhen Georgetown during peak Talk half. Leff half.
Show us the production forecast...
From page 3 before the closing date in or about 12 July and Whiptail projects, since gas from these 2024.Thisrelevantdataformsanintegralpart fields could be used to meet the required of the assessment of the Gas-to-Energy capacity for the project of about 120 million project’s viability over its proposed 25-year standard cubic feet per day (MMscfd). With life Failure to provide the requested the GTE project poised for startup next year, information before the deadline date may be she also requested that the gas sales construed as a direct action by GoG to deny agreement and other commercial documents civil and/or civic society’s right to fortheprojectbemadepublic. information thereby stymieing their Hughes was keen to note, “This resistance to the implementation of the GTE information is a necessity for submissions in projectwheretodate,therehasbeennopublic the aforementioned EXIM Bank system disclosureofanyfeasibilitystudy.”
RoysdaleForde–Anunbarbedprofile
Today,itistheturn of Mr Roysdale Forde, SC, MP, shadow attorney general The man who wants to be king has come out of the shadows,andheisswinging forthefences.
Will he scale, or will he succumb to its height, its barbed talons reaching to deter the ambitious, the reckless?
The pencil marks on the wall confirm my thinking. He will have to wait for his coronation, but that should not stop him from being a kingmaker
Itisacharmedexistence, the intricate role of kingmaker who is, in effect, a tightrope walker They have a history of falling on their heads or losing their heads. Thereissuchathing as a man before his time, a man in a hurry, one that still
mustpayhisfulldues. Noneofthishasdeterred Mr Forde, and his hat is in the middle of the leadership ring. I see him staking out his position in the contrast that he wishes to project. There must be change(s) to that exceptional piece of corporate handiwork from Exxon.
It is an unofficial Sabbath day, so I thought that it is best to keep things civil Hence, corporate handiwork, and not corporate crime, or odious
A
calumnyfromExxon. It is obvious that Mr Fordebelievesthatgoinghis own way and traveling on grounds that even the politicalgodsofGuyanafear to tread will usher him into theheartsofhisfirsttargeted constituency. That would be his PNC
constituency He makes enough inroads there, and emerges victorious, and that bigger and broader constituency would be his next challenge. He has his workcutoutforhiminboth instances.
The first is old PNC Guyana, and the second is the same ole, same ole, PPP Guyana. Yeah,theramparts arehigh. Thebestofluckto Mr Forde in his political endeavours come July or August.
Changemusthappenand change to the contract is the higher gear that Mr Forde hasmadehismantra. Hehad better be prepared to go all theway
Orhemaynotbeableto get out of the way fast enoughtosavehisneck. He cantakecareofhimself. My priorityisthishuntforthose who will take care of
Guyanese interests. Not theirown.
Not that which benefits Exxon first, foremost, and for all time. That’s not a contract, it is a despicable crime.
A shame and cardinal disgrace on its authors, and the sharpest condemnations on its backers. The US Ambassadorisdutyboundto doso. But,byGod!notany leader in this country Not onecitizen.
If some Venezuelans haveabeefwithExxon,then why should not every Guyanese? I reassure the recoiling that this has absolutely no relation to the enemy of my enemy is my friend.
Indeed, without delving into mafiosi culture, that is usuallyso. Buthowcanitbe when Exxon is such a fiend to Guyanese and not the friend that it should be, but couldcarelesstobe?
Changes to the contract must be made, and I hear Roysdale Forde, Esquire He is advised to squire his human assets and body armourwisely,developeyes on the sides and back of his head.
He has to contend with internal competitors, and he mustbereadytograppleina more f
cious manner with the external army that is watchinghim,goingtobe arrayedagainsthim.
ThereisthePPPbrigade, and it is more than a dirty dozen.
There are Exxon’s importedmercenariesandits local co=conspirators. Yes, there are those kinds of craven and maggot-infested Guyanese. Mr Forde has the spark of youth on his side, but does he have the stomach,themuscle,toface the day and carry the day whenitdawns?
Another holding the highest oil office in this country also spoke like a champ about change to the contract when he was in the ranksoftheopposition.
Today he is a chump on thatsamecontract. Thereis anoldsayinginGuyanathat hastakenonnewmeaning.
Anything for a dollar, anythingtoliveandslaveon another day Did some inquiringGuyaneseaskwhat about Mr Clean? C’mon people, this is local politics and oil politics, and not something like kitchen detergents.
Exxon’s Alistair Routledge is a proven sorcerer, and he has
perfected his chemical concoctions.
One of them has to do with a special kind of printing ink. It is invisible and inerasable, and of the kind for which the Bank of Guyana (or its US equivalent) has great demand.
Many a Guyanese politicianfrombothsidesof the political divide is perceivedtohavefallenprey toitsaromaandallure.
Can Mr Forde follow through on the ground that he has tilled? Can he keep his hands clean and hold his headhigh?
Only then will his mind be free to work at 100 miles perhourlikethatmannamed Mohamed Ali The LouisvilleLip,theKentucky caballero, proved his worth in platinum. Mr Roysdale Forde, SC, MP, now has his turntoprovehimself.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
GanjafoundinplantbucketatMahdia
TheGuyanaPoliceForce(GPF) on Sunday found 610 grams of cannabishiddeninaplantbucketat the Mahdia Arcade, Region Eight duringaraid.
Police said that several persons and stalls were searched during the exercise.
It was during the search that ranks found several plastic bags containing suspected cannabis in a plant bucket between two plastic chairsandhiddenunderablacktank withconstructionplastic.
Following the discovery, the
photographed and taken to the MahdiaPoliceStation,andweighed.
Investigationsareongoing.
The 610 grams of marijuana that was found
Chinese firm gets US$9M contract to build national control centre to manage power plant
P o w e r C h i n a International Group Limited out of Beijing, China has b e e n a w a r d e d a $1,827,929,605 (US$9M) contract to construct the Guyana National Control Centre(GNCC).
K a i e t e u r N e w s understands that the constructionof theGNCC is a project being executed by the Office of the Prime Minister, and it aimed at managing the affairs of the gas-firedpowerplant.
The award of contract was made public by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board(NPTAB)which revealed on website that the $1 8 billion contract was awarded on June 21, 2024.
It was reported that the Office of t h e P r i m Minister last year issued a tender seeking bid for the ‘Engineering, P r o c u r e m e n t , a n d Construction(EPC)Services for the Construction of a Building for the Guyana NationalControlCentre’and Power China International Group Limited was among fourbiddersforthecontract.
Thecapacityofthegenerator set shall be ISO rated at 125% of the design load capacity of the GNCC Building. Additionally, the scope of work includes an appropriately dimensioned building to house the generator unit and ISO fuel tank capacity to allow for an autonomyof24hours.”
The EPC contractor will be required to complete all civil works relative to the installation of the transformers, as directed by GPL.
This publication had reported that back in April 2022 that GPL’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the time, Bharat Dindyal revealed plans to establish a n a t i o n a l c o n t r o l centre at Eccles, East B a n k D e m e r a r a (EBD), where the present isolated systemslocatedinEssequibo and Linden would be integrated into the new nationalgrid.
Thetenderdocumenthad stated that the control centre will support the integration and dispatch of the new 300 MW combined cycle gas turbine(CCGT)PowerPlant andallowtheGuyanaPower and Light (GPL) to supervise, manage and controlthenewandupgraded powersystem.
The Office of the Prime Minister explained that the scope of works includes all EPC activities necessary to complete the building and install all systems as specified in the employer requirements. This includes, but is not limited to, the contractor’s overall responsibility for designing, procuring, constructing, commissioning, defects notifications period, and maintaining the building to meet the specified performance and functional standards.
The RFP also explained that,“Thescopeofworkalso includes the supply and installation of a complete diesel-firegeneratorset,with dutytooperatecontinuously
NEWPOWERPLANT Kaieteur News had reported that the 300megawatt (MW) CCGT power plant is a component of the highly touted Wales Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project.Itincludesa12-inch pipeline, being funded by ExxonMobil, to transport naturalgasfromtheLizaOne and Liza Two fields in the StabroekBlock,totheWales DevelopmentSite.
There, the gas will be processed by a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility whichwillseparateandtreat its components to supply other products for resale, such as cooking gas A portionofthetreatedgaswill be utilized to generate some 300 MW of electricity to supply power to the national grid.
The NGL facility and power plant are expected to be financed through a loan fromtheUnitedStates(‘US) ExportImport(EXIM)Bank. Government has said the application is still pending approval.
Notably, the pipeline component is expected to cost US$1 billion, while the contract for construction of the gas plants were awarded to CH4-Lindsayca, to the tuneofUS$759M.
Georgetown Magistrates’ Court
hosts first Open Day
The Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday held its first ‘Open Day’ at its AvenueoftheRepublicbuilding.
The event aimed to connect with the public and stakeholders and offered an opportunity to interact with various court representatives, including the Chancellor of theJudiciaryandseveralMagistrates.
Chancellor of the Judiciary Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards expressed her appreciation for the initiative, “It gives me a great pleasure to be associated with the initiativethathasbeenplannedandexecuted solely by Chief magistrates, Principal Magistrate, Senior Magistrates in executingourfirsteveropenday.”
The event drew a large crowd and had several goals, including encouraging the
publictoaccessjustice,understandthecourt process, and strengthening community relations between the court and the public. Activities included guided tours, live court proceedings, interactive sessions, educational presentations, and questions and answerssurvey
Senior Magistrate Clive Nurse remarked on the importance of the event, “We believe thatthiswillassistmembersofthepublicand stakeholderstohaveabetterappreciationand understandingofwhatthecourtdoesandthe wayitdoesit.”
Senior Magistrate Nurse also provided detailed information about the Court and futureplansforthedistrict.Hementionedthat GeorgetownisoneoftenMagisterial
Continued on page 22
Attendees at the Georgetown Magistrates’Court Open Day
Govt. does not have citizens’ best interest at heart – Red Threat activists
The rising cost of living and a willingness by the Government of Guyana to allow ExxonMobil GuyanaLimitedtooperatetaxfree showsthatthegovernmentdoesnot have the citizens’ best interest at heart,Civilsocietyactivistssaidon Tuesday
Wintress White and Norma Adrian, members of women’s rightsorganization,RedThread,on Tuesday morning joined Charles Sugrim of Oil & Gas Governance Network(OGGN)asguestsonthe radio programme Oil Talk with OGGN Guyana with the episode being titled “Exxon cashing in
…lament Exxon’s tax-free ride, high cost of living
—poorpeoplesuffering”.
They spoke at length about the disparities between the prosperity being experienced by ExxonMobil anditspartners,andthesufferingof theGuyanesepeopleatatimewhen thecostoflivingisconsistentlyon the rise, with no increased purchasingpower
During the course of the discussion, White stated that she believes that the government of Guyana holds its people in
contempt, due to the discrepancies between their treatment of the oil companies that have been operating on and off of shore, and the very people that should be benefitting the most from those operations—theGuyanesepeople.
“I think there is a contempt for the people of Guyana by the government. How could you ask poor people to pay taxes and you areexemptingExxonMobilandits partners from paying so much
money in tax, what is it you’re saying to us? What is it you’re telling us, when you’re using our tax money, our hard-earned tax money to build roads, to expand airport and to use on other things and Exxon and their partners have those facilities to use and they’re not paying a cent? When the road breaksup,westillhavetofixit;and they’renotpayingacent,”shesaid.
Guyanese currently pay a 14 percentValueAddedTax(VAT)on
specific goods and services, while Exxon and its sub-contractors, as outlined under the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), are completely exempted from paying taxes
“In Guyana, we have seen the rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer and contempt for poor people. In Guyana, if you workovertime,theytakeoutpayas youwork.Ifyourfamilysendsa
Continued on page 18
TenPuisneJudgesappointed
Ten Puisne judges will today be sworn in by President Irfaan Ali, the J u d i c i a l S e r v i c e Commission (JSC) announcedonMonday.
The new judges are Commissioners of Title to the Land Court, Priscilla Chandra-Hanif and Nicola Pierre, Former Deputy Solicitor General Deborah Kumar-Chetty, former Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Attorney, Hessaun Sharifa-Yasin, Acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus and Magistrates
Peter Hugh and Zamilla Ally-Seepaul, Judge of the Eastern Caribbean Court, Jaqueline Josiah-Graham; DeputyCommissionerofthe GRA,AttorneyJoyPersaudSingh and Attorney and Company Secretary of the
Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Nigel Niles are the otherappointees.
According to the JSC, Pierrewascalledtothebarin Trinidad in 1998 and served inwidespectrumofcivillaw and litigation, legislative d
appointed to the bench as a landcourtjudgein2014.She also served as Secretary to the Bar Association and is former Chairman of the Deeds and Commercial RegistryDepartment.
Chandra-Hanifservedas ajunioradvocateinTrinidad in the civil courts, before servingasanattorneyforthe MinistryofHumanServices and Social Services. She wasemployedthereforeight y
appointment as a land court judge.
practised law for over 23 years. After 17 years in p
transitioned to the public service thereby being appointed to the post of Deputy Solicitor General of the Attorney General Chambers.
Yasinisanattorneysince 1998, with experiences working at the Attorney General Chambers and later the GRA as its first lawyer She was instrumental in creating a legal division for the GRA in 2010 and later became Head of the Department contributing significantly to the GRA’s legalframework.
Acting Chief Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus’s legal career beganinTrinidadwhereshe served as an associate
attorney before returning Guyana in 2006 where she served in the Director of Public Prosecutions Office before she joined the Magistracyin2007.
Magistrate Hugh’s bio
indicated that he worked with several distinguished legal firms at the start of his career before establishing his own private practice.
According to the JSC, Hugh showed a great commitment to the justice system and legal education which led himtoserveinthesummary court.
Mrs. Ally-Seepaul was admittedtothebarin2008
Continuedonpage19
Nicola Pierre
Zamilla Ally-Seepaul
Hessaun Sharifa-Yasin
Peter Hugh
Joy Persaud Singh
Jaqueline Josiah-Graham
Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus
Priscilla Chandra-Hanif
Nigel Niles
Deborah Kumar-Chetty
Bandits loot several vehicles at ‘Clash of the Titans’ show
Missing mirrors from one of the cars that was broken into.
BanditsonSaturdaylootedseveralvehiclesbelongingto patrons who attended the ‘Clash of the Titans’ chutney concert held at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) marring their experience at the annualevent.Thepatronswereadvisedtoparktheirvehicles inthevicinityofGreenfieldPark,Providence,EBD.
Thousands of persons attended the concert and though manysecuredvehiclepassesthatallowedthemtoparkinside the Providence Stadium, when they arrived, they were told thatthedesignatedparkingareawasfilled.
Agroup of friends was among the unlucky patrons who couldnotgainentrydespitehavingparkingpasses.
One victim, who requested anonymity, told Kaieteur News thatsheandherfriendsweredirectedtoleavetheircar in Greenfield Park and were given all assurance by police directingthetrafficandenforcingthesecuritymeasuresatthe eventthattherewillberegularpatrols.
Ataround23:00hrsthatnight,thewomanrecalledthatshe neededtochangehershoesandsenttogetanotherpairfrom the car when it was discovered that someone broke into the vehicleandstoleanumberofvaluables.Thewomansaidher Samsung S23 ultra phone and other important documents includingherdriver’slicencewereremovedfromthecar An alarmwasraisedandotherpatronswhosecarswereparkedin thesameareacamescamperingtochecktheirvehicles.Some ofthemsufferedasimilarfate.
Kaieteur News understands that some mirrors were stolen.
The woman told this publication that, “They gone away withanotherman’sdocuments”.
Another patron became irate with the police officers on duty after he learnt that the thieves had broken into his car becauseitwasthepolicewhodirectedhimtoparkthere.
“AndthenwhenIconfrontedhim(apoliceofficer)about it, he then turned and said ‘if that’s his problem” and threatened to arrest me for disorderly behaviour,” another victimrecounted.
Kaieteur News understands that while some persons reported the break-ins to police, others did not. However, hours later on Sunday morning, the female patron’s drivers’ licencewasfoundonBroadStreet,Georgetowninfrontofthe LotusHardwareStore.Thepatronwastoldthatitwasfound among some containers in front of the hardware store by a passerbyataround01:30hrsonSunday
…residentsblamecloggeddrains Section of La Parfait Harmonie flooded for 2 months
Residents from a section of Onderneeming, La ParfaiteHarmoniehave complained that their community hasbeeninundatedfortwomonths duetocloggeddrains.Oneresident, Geeta Persaud said she tried clearing the drain in front of her home to ease the flooding but it continues to be flooded, as are her neighbours.
Persaud is calling on the relevant authorities to visit the community and make an assessment of what the problem is and have it fixed soonest. The woman said the water is stagnant andstink.
Persaud said that only the houses on her side of the street are affected.
“Themneighboursoppositewe, them ain’t affected”, Persaud told Kaieteur News The frustrated woman pleaded for help on Facebookwhereshepostedavideo ofthestagnantwater
“I am under this water for two months now and it is really
botheringme,itisreallyunhealthy for me. We need help; we really needhelp;thisiswhatIhavetolive with”.
In a subsequent telephone interview with this newspaper, Persaud said that the water is infested with tadpoles, has “green moss”. She is also afraid that the stagnant water could also be a breathinggroundformosquitoes.
“Ifitkeeprisingmoreandmore and if it seeps into the septic now, it’s going to be worse and even worse,” the woman told Kaieteur News
She said that she lives with her children and grandchildren and because of fear that the “dirty water”couldgetthemsick,shehas chosen to keep them indoors at all times.
“We does have to jacky them out when is time for school,” the woman added while making a public plea for some assistance to get the community drains uncloggedsothattheycanreturnto theirnormalwayoflife.
Geeta Persaud’s flooded yard
$72McontractawardedtorehabilitateMeadowBankWharf
Khan’s Construction and Transportation Services has been awarded a $72,275,000 contract to rehabilitate the MeadowBankWharf,Georgetown.
According to information obtained from the National Procurement and Tender Board (NPTAB) website, the contractwasawardedonJune24,2024,followinganational biddingprocess.
Khan’s Construction and Transportation Services was among 20 contractors who bid for the project which was estimatedtocost$151million.
Kaieteur News previouslyreportedthatplanstohavethe facilityrehabilitatedwereannouncedbyPresidentIrfaanAli during an impromptu visit to the wharf in March. The President was joined by Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha where they listened to concerns raised by the fisherfolk.
It was reported by the Department of Public Information (DPI)thatoneofthemajorconcernsraisedwastheneedfor runningwaterintheareaandrepairstothewharf.Theyalso requestedadditionalstreetlightsforthearea.
Afterlisteningtotheirconcerns,PresidentAlisaidthatall theissuesraisedwouldbeaddressedandnotedthattheroad leading to the wharf would be rehabilitated and a number of standpipeswillbesetupinthearea.
Additionally, a shed will be constructed in the area to properlyaccommodatethem.
Asimilar visit by the President in 2022 saw the Guyana PoliceForce(GPF)establishingapermanentpresenceatthe location to ensure the safety of those plying their trade and customers.
The President’s intervention also saw the installation of properwashroomfacilitiesandlightingforthefisherfolk.
Govt.doesnothave...
Frompage14
barrelforyou,yougottopaytaxonthatbarrel,theyopenitand they tax you In Guyana, if you buy a washing machine, they chargeyouVATandifyoubuyabed,theychargeyouVATtoo Sowe,thepoorpeopleareheavilytaxed,”Whitesaid
Further,theRedThreadrepresentativequestioned:“How couldyouaskustopayandyounotaskingthem?Themisnah poor people, they don’t have to scrape, they don’t have to worryaboutdoingmathematics…Theydon’thavetoworry because their bank book in the billion line, we own in the thousandline.”
Similarly,Adrian lamented the sharp, repeated increases ofthecostoflivinginGuyana,listingseveralfooditemsthat haveseenanincreaseinpriceinrecenttimes.
“No matter how we planting the greens right in Guyana here, everything is expensive. Imagine, mango is in season right now, and [you only get] six ripe mangoes for five hundreddollarsandthatgrowsinGuyana,”theactivistsaid.
Meanwhile,host CharlesSugrimquestionedhow thetax waiver Exxon received could have benefitted Guyanese families.
“If we were to take the tax for last year that was waived —notcollected—,everyfamilyoffourwouldhavereceived GYD$1.4millionlastyear Whatwouldanextra$1.4million doforafamilyoffourinGuyana?”heasked.
Both White and Adrian acknowledged that such an amount would be a good start but maintained that approximately GYD $116,000 a month would still not be enoughwhenfactoringintheever-increasinglivingcostslike housingandtransportation.
President Irfaan Ali visiting the Meadow Bank Wharf in March.
Ten Puisne Judges appointed
Frompage15
andpractisedintheDPP’sChambersasSenior State Counsel before she was appointed as a Magistratein2012 JusticeJosiah-Grahamisa formerlegalofficeroftheGRA,Legalassistant totheChancelloroftheJudiciaryinGuyanaand Former Registrar of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) before she was appointed to serve as a Judge of the Eastern Caribbean Court
Additionally, Persaud-Singh is a most recentDeputyCommissionerattheGRAwith experiencespractisinginGuyanaandCanada
Niles is an attorney with 23 years’ experience, seven of which he served in private practice He joined the GWI in 2008 andwaslaterappointedExecutiveDirectorof CorporateServicesandCompanySecretary Hehasheldthoseportfoliosfor16yearsuntil hisrecentappointment.Thenewjudgeswill serve either in Essequibo, Demerara or Berbice and will serve in the civil and/or criminaljurisdictionsasassigned
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court, in a statement,notedthat37peopleappliedforthe postand10wereappointedbytheJSC,thebody
responsiblefortheappointmentofjudges
Last October, the JSC announced that it would advertise to fill vacancies for judges withintheHighCourtandAppealCourt
In its advertisements published in the online and print media, the JSC invited attorneys with at least seven years of experiencepractisinglawinGuyanaorwithin the Commonwealth jurisdiction
Additionally,anypersonwhohasbeenajudge ofacourtofunlimitedjurisdictioninciviland criminal matters was also invited to apply to fillthepositionofjudge
Mansentencedto3years forganjapossession
A 24-year-old labourer of Heathburn Village, East Bank Berbice (EBB) was sentenced to three years in prison for Possession of Narcotics for the purpose of traffickingonJune24,2024.
TreavethWintzwasarrestedonSundayfor beinginpossessionof350gramsofmarijuana. HemadehisfirstcourtappearanceattheNew Amsterdam Magistrates’ Court before Magistrate Michelle Matthias, where the chargewasreadtohim.
Wintzpleadedguiltytothechargeandwas sentenced.
UG signs agreement for Maoka Taawa University of the Forests Campus
The University of Guyana along with the South Rupununi District Council and the Aishalton Village Council recently signed an agreement to establish the Maoka Taawa University of ForestsCampus.
This momentous agreement was signed in Aishalton, marking a major milestonefortheindigenous communities in the South Rupununi.
Seven of nine village
Toshao leaders, alongside high-level officials from the 21 villages of the South Rupununi District, and representatives from the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen campus, gathered to witness the signing of a historicagreement.
The campus, situated near the Brazilian border, will be located in close proximity to the 21 communities of South Rupununi, as well as other nearby ind
communities.
Thecampuswillcaterto the21communitiesofSouth Rupununi, located closer to the Brazilian border, as well
communitiesnearby Accordingtoastatement from the University of Guyana, the Maoka Taawa
University of Forests will catertoapopulationofover 11,000individualsacrossthe 21villages.
Notably, the goal is to provide higher education and training opportunities within their territory, reducing the need for students to leave for extendedperiods.
Despite producing over 600 secondary school graduates annually, the SouthregionofGuyanasees less than 5% of these graduates pursing higher education. Those who do often have to leave their communities for extended periodsordonotreturn.
The geographic location and other social conditions have presented a challenge to higher education and traininguntilnow
Additionally, the university will offer courses tailoredtothespecificneeds andinterestsoftheresidents.
Several disciplines have been prioritized, including education, agriculture, environmental sciences, sustainabletourism,medical sciences, sustainable engineering, construction and infrastructure, business, indigenous knowledge, entrepreneurship, and accounting.
Toshao of Aishalton, Timothy Williams said, “Energy and Focus over the past year was to help make thishappenalongwithother key persons. Education is what we have yearned for; we know it’s the key to everything.Thisisahistoric andproudmomentforus”.
The efforts to establish thecampusweredrivenbya delegation of five Toshao leaders who approached the University of Guyana with their idea. Vice-Chancellor ProfessorPalomaMohamed Martin played a supportive role, and the negotiations resulted in fruitful collaboration.
Representatives from the University of Guyana, South Rupununi District Council and the Aishalton Village
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Parents robbed after collecting ‘Because We Care’ cash grant
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is investigating several incidents across the city where parents were robbed of their “Because We Care” cash grants.
Distribution of the $45,000 cash grant per child began on Monday and while most parents were able to put their cash grant to good use, others were unlucky as bandits grabbed theirs.
Kaieteur News received
several reports that parents were robbed on the Stabroek Bus park.
The bandits reportedly pounced on them and snatched their bags containing the envelopes.
Kaieteur News attempted to contact some of the victims but up to press time, all efforts were futile.
Canter truck, great for mobile vending, 2019 December, RHD with 54,500 KM. Arrived in Guyana December 2023. Contact: 676-5051.
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Additionally, Kaieteur News understands that a number of parents were also reportedly robbed in Sophia, by motorcycle bandits. This newspaper was told that at least four parents were robbed in that community. Reports are that the police have since made contact with all the victims and are actively searching for the culprits.
It is believed that the bandits were following the parents and waited until the most opportune time to pounce on the parents.
Taxi driver sentenced to three years for possession of narcotics
A 27-year-old taxi driver from Heathburn Village, East Bank Berbice (EBB) was sentenced on Monday to three years in prison for Possession of Narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.
The taxi driver, Hardat Chan was apprehended on Sunday and subsequently charged.
The narcotics found in Chan’s possession amounted to 235 grams when weighed. Chan appeared at the New Amsterdam Magistrates’ Court before Her Worship Magistrate Tuanna Hardy, where the charge was read to him.
He pleaded not guilty to the charge and was sentenced.
Georgetown Magistrates’ Court hosts first...
From page 13 Districts in Guyana, with others being in East and West Demerara and, Corentyne, Berbice, West Berbice, Essequibo, North West, Rupununi, and the Upper Demerara River.
He also announced that there would a new magisterial district which will be created soon on the East Bank Demerara. Further, Magistrate Nurse disclosed that there are 52 magistrates in the country
and efforts are being made to have courts established at Friendship, Timehri, and La Parfaite Harmonie. New buildings will be dedicated to court at Port Kaituma and Mabaruma.
Meanwh ile, attendees also had the opportunity to learn about different court services offered, including the children’s court, drug treatment and counselling. They were able to see the layout of the court and
understand the roles of everyone involved, including the persons handling criminal cases, civil disputes, domestic violence iss ues, and cases involving children.
A student of the University of Guyana told Kaieteur News that the event “was good and informative because I was not aware that the Magistrate court offers so many services especially to juvenile offenders.”
Norton unfazed by allegations of sexual...
From page 8
Mayors and Councillors, as well as all delegates and members of our party. It was unanimously agreed that Mr. Phillip Drayton would handle the design, and I distinctly remember stating that Ms. Shonelle SmithDaniels would assist in distribution,” Mahipaul said in the letter.
Meanwhile, Norton commenting on whether he believes that there is a deliberate attempt by some sections of his party to taint his image and ultimately cause the Congress to be held later said, “It is obvious to everyone that since I became the leader of the party, there is some people who decided that they would go after me but when you are in politics that is the ruff and tuff of politics.”
Alluding to the high number of nominations he received for the leadership position, Norton said that he is “extremely confident,” that the party’s base is united and will support him in his bid for re-election.
In recent days, the Opposition leader has faced several accusations from members of the PNC/R.
Last week an allegation of sexual harassment was leveled against him by party member Vanessa Kissoon and on Monday, Norton was hit with the resignation of Hastings-Williams.
Hastings-Williams is the second General Secretary appointed by Norton to have resigned - the first being Geeta ChandanEdmond.
Hastings-Williams, a Member of Parliament and former government minister cited a range
of issues for her resignation - chief among them being the party’s lack of preparedness for the upcoming Congress and a lack of accountability and transparency in the management of the organization.
Her resignation took effect from June 24, 2024. In the resignation letter addressed to Norton, Hastings-Williams noted that within the period of over one year, she was unable to present any financial statement to the Central Executive Committee (CEC).
“Reason simply being that I have no access to the weekly or monthly income and expenditure statement,” she noted.
She added that she had asked the accountant last December to prepare and produce a financial statement for the year 2023 so as to present it to the CEC.
“When I called for the statement to be handed in to me, the accountant said that she had completed the statement as was instructed by me but was told not to hand it over to me but to put in on hold,” HastingsWilliams explained. Further, the former General Secretary pointed to the lack of readiness for the Congress.
“With the entire administrative task that has to be undertaken by the Secretariat, I believe that the one-month period for preparation for such a Congress can lead to confusion rather than having a fair and transparent process and outcome. I am quite sure that you and the members of the CEC will agree with me that when the Congress is over, it must conclude in a positive light,” she said.
Hardat Chan
President Ali announces honey production project for Santa Mission
Some of the plants the community received on Tuesday.
President Irfaan Ali
Israeli airstrikes kill at least 24 in Gaza City, health officials say
Palestinians inspect the damages at Abdulfattah Hamoud school where displaced people were taking refuge, following an Israeli strike, amid IsraelHamas conflict, in Gaza City, June 25, 2024. REUTERS/Dawoud Abu Alkas
CAIRO, June 25
(Reuters) - Israeli forces killedatleast24Palestinians inthreeseparateairstrikeson Gaza City early on Tuesday andthedeadincludedasister of Ismail Haniyeh, the chief of militant Islamist group Hamas, Gaza health officials andmedicssaid.
Israeli tanks also pressed deeper overnight into western areas of Rafah in the enclave’s south, blowing up homes,residentssaid.
Two of the Israeli airstrikes hit two schools in Gaza City, killing at least 14 people,medicssaid.Another strike on a house in the Shati (Beach) camp, one of the Gaza Strip’s eight historic refugee camps, killed 10 others. The house in Shati belonged to the extended family of Hamas political chief Haniyeh, who is based in Qatar One of his sisters was killed along with other relatives, family members andmedicssaid.
Haniyeh, who leads Hamas diplomacy and is the end to the aggression is not rubble - with no prior bombedtwostructures“used Ahighriskoffaminealso border Israel’s ground and public face of the group that an agreement. Our position warning, with people around by Hamas terrorists in Shati persistsacrosstheGazaStrip air campaign in Gaza was has run Gaza since 2007, has onthiswillnotchangeatany them, and there are injuries and Daraj Tuffah in the as the conflict rages on triggered when Hamas-led lost many relatives in Israeli stage,” Haniyeh said in a among the neighbours,” northern Gaza Strip. The unabated and humanitarian militants stormed into airstrikes since Oct 7, statement. KaskintoldReuters. terrorists operated inside access remains restricted, a southern Israel on Oct. 7, includingthreesons. Hassan Kaskin, a Israel’s military said its school compounds that were global hunger monitor said killing around 1,200 people Responding to the latest neighbour, said the Haniyeh forces had targeted militants usedbyHamasasashieldfor onTuesday and seizing more than 250 Israeli attack that killed his familyhousewashitwithout overnight in Gaza City who its terrorist activities”, the HEZBOLLAH hostages,accordingtoIsraeli sister, Haniyeh reaffirmed advance warning before had been involved in the militarysaidinastatement. CONFLICT tallies. the group’s demands for dawn on Tuesday Footage planning of attacks on Israel. Hamas denies using Over eight months into The Israeli offensive in reaching a ceasefire obtained by Reuters showed The militants, it said, civilian facilities such as the war, international retaliation has so far killed agreement with Israel and the multi-floor building included some who had schools and hospitals for mediation backed by the 37,658 people, the Gaza said killing relatives would reducedtorubble. seized hostages as they took militarypurposes. U.S. has failed to yield a health ministry said on notinfluenceHamasactions. “ T h e y w e r e 1 0 part in the Hamas-led cross- Separately, the armed ceasefire agreement. Hamas Tuesday,andhasleftthetiny, “We still maintain that individuals, three of them border attack on Israel on wings of Hamas and the says any deal must bring an heavily built-up Gaza Strip any agreement that does not were scattered outside the Oct.7lastyear. allied Islamic Jihad said in a endtothewarandfullIsraeli inruins. guarantee a ceasefire and an house and seven under the The Israeli Air Force joint statement their fighters withdrawal from Gaza, Since early May, ground had fired mortar bombs while Israel says it will fighting has focused on overnight against Israeli accept only temporary Rafah, abutting Egypt on forces in the Yibna pauses in fighting until Gaza’s southern edge, where neighbourhood of eastern Hamasiseradicated. around half of the enclave’s Rafah. Israeli Prime Minister 2.3 million people had been
In the city of Khan BenjaminNetanyahusaidon sheltering after fleeing other Younis to Rafah’s north, Sunday the phase of intense areas.Mosthavesincehadto medics said Israeli tank fighting against Hamas fleeagain. shelling killed seven would end “very soon”, Gaza’s health ministry Palestinians and wounded freeing up more forces for said on Tuesday that several other people at a tent deployment on Israel’s hospitals and medical campinawesterndistrict. northern border with centres in the enclave were Gazahealthofficialssaid Lebanon,whereclasheswith experiencing a severe at least 45 Palestinians had Iran-backed Hezbollah have shortage of medicines and been killed by Israeli escalated. medical supplies due to the military strikes across the Israel’s national security continued Israeli offensive, densely populated coastal adviser Tzachi Hanegbi said Israel’s control and closure enclaveonTuesday on Tuesday it would spend of all crossings and its
The United Nations the coming weeks trying to targeting of the health sector Palestinian refugee agency resolve the conflict with inGaza.
(UNRWA) said chaos was Hezbollah and would prefer In particularly short taking hold in Gaza as a diplomatic solution there. supply are medications smuggling bands form, Shelling has led to the needed for emergency, adding to the difficulties of evacuation of tens of anaesthesia, intensive care delivering sorely needed aid thousands of people on both and operations, the ministry totheterritory sides of the Israel-Lebanon saidinastatement.
Gulbadin Naib accused of faking injury as Afghanistan knock Australia out of T20 World Cup
The Telegraph - win (using the Duckworth- fieldingatsliptothespinner, while former New Zealand A short rain delay moment for Afghanistan Gulbadin Naib was accused Lewis-Stern method) was took Trott’s instruction very bowler Simon Doull was followed, with the players cricket, whose men’s team offakinginjurytowastetime not without controversy, literally, and suddenly fell to fierceinhiscriticismofwhat returning having lost one have emerged as a real force before taking a wicket that however Bangladesh had the ground clutching his leg, appeared gamesmanship on over, and Bangladesh’s in the game over the last helped secure Afghanistan’s stumbled to 81 for seven in appearing to feign a theICC’scommentaryfeed. target being adjusted to 114. decade (the ruling Taliban, first ever World Cup semi- the 12th over, in response to hamstring injury Moments “Oh no no no, sorry You Rashid bowled his last over meanwhile, have banned final, eliminating Australia Afghanistan’s 115.With rain later, the players were being can’t have this,” said Doull, (finishing with brilliant their women’s team from and sparking scenes of joy in startingtofall,Afghanistan’s taken from the field, with “I’m not accepting that… figures of four for 23), and playing). They are now one Kabul. head coach Jonathan Trott, Afghanistan captain Rashid Even Rashid doesn’t like it. soon turned to Gulbadin, win away from a World Cup Afghanistan needed to theformerEnglandbatsman, Khan appearing unhappy It’s just delay tactics. I get it who had bowled superbly in final. beatBangladeshtotaketheir was seen on the boundary with his player’s behaviour, butIdon’tlikethatatall.Itis the win over Australia on For Zampa and his placeintheWorldCupsemi- tellinghisplayerstoslowthe and Bangladesh batsman unacceptable.
Sunday With his second ball Australian team-mates it is a final atAustralia’s expense – game down in the hope that Litton Das mocking
“They might have gone he picked up the eighth brutal blow, though. They and they won a rain-affected the umpires would take the Gulbadin. off anyway for the rain but wicket, of Tanzim Hasan made a flying start to the classicinStVincenttosetup players from the field
Adam Zampa, the that’snotagoodlook.Iknow Sakib, before Naveen-ul- tournament and fast bowler a last-four clash with South Afghanistan, at that point, Australia spinner, described the Euros are going on in Haq took the final two Josh Hazlewood even Africa. wereaheadonDLS. the injury as “the old football, you’d be better off wickets amid scenes of high wondered aloud whether Afghanistan’s eight-run Veteran Gulbadin, rainstring” on Instagram, there.” drama. they could engineer
Former England captain England’s elimination by and Te
columnist Michael Vaughan underperforming against posted on social media: Scotland.
“Spirit of cricket is alive But after Super 8 staged and”beforeadding“Greatto defeats to Afghanistan and see Gulbadin become the India, Australia are heading first cricketer in the history home, with England through ofthegametogetawicket25 to the semi-finals. They will minsafterbeingshot…” face India on Thursday in The win is a seismic Guyana.
Livingstone says England have grown into World Cup ahead of India clash
Liam Livingstone is hopeful England are coming good at the perfect time.
SportsMax - Liam Livingstone is hopeful England are cominggoodattheperfecttimeaheadoftheirT20WorldCup semi-final against India, having grown into the tournament afteraslowstart.
The defending champions almost succumbed to a humiliating group-stage exit, with only old rivals Australia keepingtheminwithadramaticvictoryoverScotland. HavingfinishedsecondinGroupB,JosButtler’steamdid likewise in Group 2 at the Super-8 stage, a resounding victory over the United States sending them through at West Indies’ expense.
England now have a chance to reach their fourth T20 WorldCupfinalandtheirthirdinthelastfoureditions,whilea thirdtriumphatthetournamentwouldtakethemclearofthe (Continued on page 25)
Livingstone says England have grown into World Cup ahead...
From page 26 games which should stand us coming. Windies for the outright in good stead going forward. “AsakidIalwayswanted record All-rounder We’ve hopefully got two to be involved, that’s the Livingstone says England moremassivegames.” reason I started bowling a have a chance to prove Livingstone sustained a fewyearsback,”hesaid. tournaments are not about torso injury while batting “So batting at seven and how you start, but how you against Namibia in the group maybe bowling one over, finish. stage but has shrugged that that’s where the hard bit “In tournament cricket, problem off to play all of comes as you want to be sometimes it is better to England’smatches. involved. sneak up and nick it at the He has yet to truly hit top
“Thankfully the last two end,” said Livingstone form, taking two wickets and games I struck the ball well “Hopefullythatisthewaywe scoring 13 and 33 in his two against South Africa and willgo. innings with the bat in the bowled pretty well [against “A lot of lads have been middle order, but he is the USA], so I feel I’m in a contributing in the last few confident a big finish is goodplace.”
Austria stun the Netherlands...
From page 28 had chances to add to their lead through Sabitzer and Marko Arnautovic, but the Netherlands were level just 75 seconds into the second half.
The Dutch came out fighting in the second half and equalised when Cody Gakpo curled in a great finish.
That prompted a shift in tempo and Austria were holding on as Virgil van Dijk’s header deflected over thebar
But Austria weathered the storm and retook the lead through Romano Schmid’s powerful header, which the unfortunate Stefan de Vrij couldonlyhelpovertheline.
Wednesday June 26, 2024
ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)
This is an excellent day to tell people exactly how you feel, Aries.Youremotionsaremore stable than usual, so open up andletyourheartspeak.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)
Today may be tough for you, Taurus. It might seem like nothing is fitting into place. Could it be that you're trying to be someone you aren't? If things aren't working out, don'tpresstheissue.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
Enjoy yourself today, Gemini. You have a great deal to be grateful for, so give thanks. Take pride in all that you've accomplished so far and share your joy with others. Feel free to let go of the reins and sit backandgetcomfortable.
CANCER(June21–July22)
Today may be one of those days when you don't know which way to turn, Cancer You're spinning around, and no direction looks good to you. For some reason, your engine won't turn off, and you justkeepgoingincircles.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
Romance is coming your way today as long as you stay levelheaded about the immediate situation, Leo Takecareofmenialdailytasks andthenletyourheartsoar
VIRGO(Aug 23–Sept 22)
Your emotions may be a bit reserved today, Virgo. It's OK to take a break from the activity and simply lay low This is a good time to sit back and receive. Don't make any sudden moves. Let the energy of the day take you where it will.
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
Family issues play an important role today, Libra. Speak from your heart and tell your closest relatives how much they really mean to you. In general, you might feel a bit reservedwithyourenergy
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)
Todayisagreatdaytoworkon getting yourself together Your emotions are stable, leaving your heart free to soar in the clouds.Feelfreetodaydream.
SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)
Todayisagreatdaytoworkon getting yourself together Your emotions are stable, leaving your heart free to soar in the clouds. Feel free to daydream. Now is a good time to make planswitharomanticpartnerif possible.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
T h e r e ' s a s o m e w h a t conservativeairtoyourfeelings today Youmightbecalledonto getseriousforasecondandtake care of business This may not beabadidea
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)
There's a conflicting push-pull aspect at play that may leave you feeling a bit unsure of how to proceed, Aquarius. On the one hand, you feel like you want to plan and get your emotions stabilized so you can functionatfullcapacity
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
Get your chores done early today so you have time to play tonight,Pisces.Planaromantic evening with someone you love,ifpossible.Feelfreetolet yourimaginationcarryyoutoa whole new realm of pleasure. Today is a great day to explore moreofyourartisticnature
Young Guyanese horse...
From page 30
that dominant win last weekend. “I felt very accomplished knowing that I came from Guyana with a dream at a young ageandmadeitarealityattheageof27.”
He also highlighted that he was impressed with the growthinGuyana’shorseracing.
“I always love racing horse in Guyana and will continue todoso.Guyanahorseracingisbuildingrapidlyandwiththe aimoflegislationwewillonlygoforward.”
Prince has walked away with a lot of experience while racing in the USA. He changed a few trainers but found success when he teamed up with a fellow Guyanese, in trainerRandiPersaud.
“There were some challenges I had faces during my journeywhichIhadtookayeartogetmyvictory Ihadafew second and third places along the way and had to change a fewtrainersuntilIteamupwithmyfellowGuyanesetrainer Randi Persaud. I continue to believe in myself and my knowledge of horse to overcome any obstacles,” Prince explained.
With age on his side, Prince will be hoping to make furtherstridesinthehorseracingfraternity.
Memphis Depay thought he had earned the Dutch a draw when his close-range volley survived a check for handball by the video assistant referee, but Sabitzer had the final say when he broke through and drove into the roof of the net to send the Austrian fans wild.
Austria stun the Netherlands to progress to last 16
Romano Schmid got Austria’s second goal to help them on their way to an impressive win. (Getty Images)
BBC Sport - Austria produced a hugely impressive performancethatwillmakeotherstakenoticeatEuro2024as they beat the Netherlands to progress to the last 16 as Group Dwinners.
Despite being handed a tough draw with the Dutch and France,RalfRangnick’ssidewontwooftheirthreegamesto gofinishtopofthestandings.
The Netherlands had already guaranteed their progressiontothelast16buttheywillnowgothroughasone ofthebestthird-placedsides,withFrancesecond.
This was a fully deserved win forAustria as they played with spirit and desire throughout, and showed great determination to respond to a fast start to the second-half by the Netherlands as Marcel Sabitzer’s strike secured the victory
The Austrians had been gifted a sixth-minute lead when Donyell Malen turned home Alexander Prass’s dangerous cross.
And, although Malen had a chance at redemption but scuffed his shot, Austria took control as the Netherlands struggledtogetatouchoftheballattimes.Rangnick’sside (Continued on page 25)
GMMAF Strategy Meeting Sets the Stage for IMMAF Pan American Championships
(From left to right) - Troy Phillips, VP GYMMA, Natasha Carrington, GPFMMAA, Charles Greaves, Assistant Technical Director GYMMAF, John Campayne, JCMMAA, Neville Persaud, Executive GYMMAF, Troy Bobb, Harpe Eagle MMA Jeffery Wong, IKO Karate Academy.
The Guyana Mixed readytostepintothecage. chance to showcase their forward to a successful M
A
A subsequent date will talentandgrow IMMAF Pan American
n be announced for the T
Championships and to our (GYMMAF) convened a athletes’ physical and committee overseeing these fighters bringing home the high-energy planning and m
, activities includes notable gold. strategic meeting with its followed by an internal figures such as Phillips, The clubs submitting memberclubsrecently,atthe c
n to Roland Fanfair, Charles fighters include: TransportSportsClub(TSC) finalizetheselection Greaves, and Dr Sarwan - John Campayne Mixed conferencecenter
This meticulous process Jagnarain, ensuring a MartialArtsAcademy
The primary agenda was ensures that only the best balancedandcomprehensive - A c a d e m y o f the submission of club will represent Guyana on the approach. ContemporaryMMA athletes for this year’s Pan American stage, The GYMMAF remains -HarpeEagleMMA International Mixed-Martial accordingtoorganisers. committed to fostering a -YingYangFightClub Arts Federation (IMMAF) Troy Phillips, Vice- thriving mixed martial arts -360MuayThai P a n A m e r i c a n President and Team community in Guyana, - Spartan Fight Central Championships With 10 Manager, underscored the providing a fair platform for Club clubs represented, 7 fairness of the selection all athletes to prove their - Guyana Police Force submitted the names of their process, emphasizing that it mettle. Mixed Martial A
ts fighters, totaling 27 athletes allows all clubs a fighting The Federation looks Academy
Royals and Jets to face off in Nigel Hinds/ LABA championship game Saturday
Amelia’s Ward Jets earned the right to face VictoryValleyRoyalscomeSaturdayinthefinal of the Nigel Hinds / Linden Amateur Basketball Association’s (LABA) Senior League tournamentafterthesemifinalsweredecidedlast Saturday at the Amelia’s Ward Hard Court in Linden.
ThefirstsemifinalendedwithAmelia’sWard Jets edging their way past Retrieve Raiders, 6257, after the half time scores were knotted 2525.Quincy Easton was the leading scorer for the Jets with 23 points and teammate Junior Niles supported with 12 while for the Raiders Selwyn Henryhad19pointsandShemarSavoury10.
However,theunbeatenVictoryValleyRoyals gainedawalkovervictorywhenBlock22Flames did not field a team in second semifinal, paving the way for the grand show down on Saturday between the Royals, widely regarded as the best clubinGuyana,andupstartsJets.
Cash incentives are on offer for the participating clubs along with trophies as Nigel Hinds Financial Services are the major sponsors forthisSeniorLeagueChampionship,thesecond tournamentfortheLABA’s2024season.
Actionstartsfrom6:30PM.atAmelia’sWard Hard Court, with the first game being the third placeplayoffgamebetweenRaidersandFlames.
Half time entertainment, music will be entertained before the final featuring Royals and Jets, along with refreshments. Admission Fee $1,000.
Raiders and Jets battle during the match.
Leung, Persaud, Jeffrey shine at GCF National Road Race Championship
Despite heavy rainfall, the first fromAlexanderLeungofTeamWe day of the Guyana Cycling Stand United. The young prodigy Federation’s (GCF) National left his competition in the dust, Championship Road Race saw finishing the 62-mile race in two spirited competition and standout hours, 34 minutes, and 33 seconds performances along the (2:34:33). Sidwel Sandy also of Linden/Soesdyke Highway Four KARCC secured the second spot, determined cyclists including; trailing Leung’s commanding Alexander Leung, Robin Persaud, lead.
Abigail Jeffrey, and Alex Newton In the Women’s division, pedaled their way to victory in Abigail Jeffrey showed their respective divisions on remarkable resilience and skill, Sunday coveringa32-milecoursetoclinch
With a low turnout of just 13 firstplace.Similarly,AlexNewton participants, the event was emerged victorious in the nonetheless fierce in competition. Juvenile’s category, showcasing Defending Masters National promisingtalentinthesport. Champion, Robin Persaud of KFC Meanwhile, the Over-50 Evolution, showcased his category race saw KFC Cyclist dominance in the Under-50 Mark Spencer take the top podium division. Persaud completed the position,demonstratingendurance grueling 62-mile route from and strategy Nigel London Soesdyke Junction to Silver Hill delivered a strong performance to and back in an impressive two securesecondplace. hours, 35 minutes, and 42 seconds The heavy rains may have (2:35:42). Hot on his heels was dampened the roads, but not the Kwame Ridley of Kaieteur Attack spirits of these exceptional Racing Cycle Club (KARCC), cyclists. Their determination and claimingsecondplace,withSegun triumphs on the first day of the Hubbardfinishingthird. GCF National Championship The Junior’s category Road Race set a high bar for the witnessed a stellar performance competitionstofollow
The respective category winners are (from left) Robin Persaud (Masters), Abigail Jeffrey (Women’s), Alex Newton (Juvenile), and Alexander Leung (Junior).
Archery Guyana Hosts Successful AGM
Treasurer.
The electoral process, known for its transparency and adherence to democratic principles, was conducted under the supervision of Mr Siand Dhurjon, Attorney-atLaw
President of Archery Guyana, Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon
expressed thanks for the professionalism demonstrated and opined that she is pleased that this year saw the number of women coming forward to contest positionsontheBoardofDirectors.
This is indicative of gender
- AG President McKinnon delivers feature address
From left to right, returning Officer Mr. Siand Dhurjon, Archery Guyana’s new Board of Directors: Mr. Siand Dhurjon (Assistant Treasurer), Mr. Ryan McKinnon (Assistant Secretary), Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon (President), Mr. Umasankar Madray (Vice-President) and Mr. Robert Singh (Treasurer).
Archery Guyana (AG) parity and she encourages more successfully held its Annual women to step to the fore to take General Meeting (AGM) at the leadership positions. Regrettably, Georgetown Club, Camp Street on in spite of contenders such as Friday 21st June, with the new Roshini Boodhoo, Melesa executive body immediately Ramnaraine, Samira Duncan and tabling a variety of topics up for Narda Mohamed, the electorate did discussioninthenearfuture. not favour them and the elected Therein given the opportunity board whose tenure ends 2027 now to discuss activities and plans for comprises as follows-President: the way forward which promotes Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, Vice- the Olympic sport of Archery in President: Umasankar Madray, Guyana. At the AGM, President, involvement is crucial to the approved Two motions were Godfrey Statia, the Guyana Secretary-General: Nicholas Hing, Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon diverse and dynamic future of unanimously passed to amend the RevenueAuthority Assistant Secretary: Ryan delivered a detailed report and ArcheryGuyana”. Constitutionaccordingly”. Mr Harryram ParmesarMcKinnon, Treasurer: Robert background to the membership, “Archery Guyana is committed Thanks were expressed to the Parmesar Accounting Firm, Singh, Assistant Treasurer: Saeed from its establishment in August
following persons and entities that Members and the Board ofArchery Karim 2014todate. environment that supports the assisted in one way or the other Guyana Inc., Guyana Beverages Mrs Persaud-McKinnon This was followed by the development and participation of during the reporting period: Inc., Mr Umasankar Madray, Mr concluded by urging continuous delivery of a comprehensive all members. The Federation looks Honorable Minister Charles Robert Singh, Massy Distribution efforts toward gender balance and Annual Report on all of the forward to another year of growth, Ramson, The Ministry of Culture (Guyana)Inc.,MassyGasProducts inclusivity within the Federation. activities of the Federation, which
Youth & Sport, Director of (Guyana) Ltd., Mr Ray Beharry, “While we have made strides was well received. At the AGM, engagementfromitsmembers.The Sport, Mr Steve Ninvalle, The Seven Seas, Mr Samuel Arjoon, towards gender parity, there is still elections took place for the Externally Audited Financial National Sports Commission, Mr General Manager of Guyana and work to be done. I encourage more positions of Vice-President, Report was presented to the RyanMcKinnon,Mr JuliusSimon, many others including the local women to step up and lead. Their Assistant Secretary, and Assistant membership and was
Archery Guyana (AG) President Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon.
Afghanistan into semi-finals after Bangladesh thriller, Australia out
fans gather in Jalalabad
Bangladesh.
Naveen-ul-Haq took 4 for 26. (AFP/Getty Images)
AFP - Afghanistan while Naveen took 4-26 as but delighted “Man of the Rishad Hossain claimed advanced to their first-ever Bangladesh were dismissed Match”Naveen. three for 26 to lead the senior world tournament for 105, chasing a revised “We always knew they impressive Bangladeshi produced a superb four-over 100-runmark. semi-final with a nerve- targetof114off19overs. were going to be coming bowlingeffort. spell, conceding just 12 runs “The belief came when jangling eight-run victory An unbeaten 54 from hard at us to try to get the Despite another good for the wicket of former we beat New Zealand (at the over Bangladesh at the T20 Bangladesh opener Litton target in 12.1 overs but we opening stand – 59 off 10.4 captainMohammadNabi. group stage),” said the World Cup on Monday that Das (49 balls, five fours, one stuck to the task and kept overs – theAfghans failed to “I think through the Afghancaptaininexplaining eliminatedmightyAustralia. six) threatened to deny gettingwickets.” capitalise on that platform whole tournament we’ve his team’s journey to this
Amid excruciating Afghanistan’s fairytale win - ‘Make the with topscorer Rahmanullah been bowling pretty well,” unprecedentedachievement. tension at the Arnos Vale and earn Australia the last country proud’- Gurbaz’s laborious 43 off 55
“We thought 130-135 Stadium in St Vincent, semi-final spot. But pacer With India defeating ballstypifyingthestruggleto Bangladesh captain Najmul would be a good total on this AfghancaptainRashidKhan Naveen claimed the last two Australia earlier in the day gettheballaway HossainShanto. wicket, but still, we knew if and seamer Naveen ul Haq wickets – TaskinAhmed and and advancing to the second Ibrahim Zadran and “As a batting group we stuck to our plans we w
roes as Mustafizur Rahman – off semi-final against England A
though we have a lot of would have a good chance to Afghanistan battled through consecutive deliveries to in Guyana on Thursday, this managed to get into double- improvement to make. We defendthetotal.Wejustgave three rain stoppages to trigger delirious Afghan resultassuredtheAfghansof figuresbuttherateofscoring didn’t make good decisions 100 percent effort, to make secure a famous victory celebrations and leave a second spot in the group and
and going forward we need the country and the people under the DLS scoring disconsolate Das stranded at eliminated the Aussies and throughout. tothinkaboutourbatting.” backhomeproudofus.” method that was sealed after thenon-striker’send. Bangladeshis.
Seamer Taskin, one of It was left to Rashid (19 Scores: Afghanistan 115 1amlocaltime. “Wehaveworkedsohard Afghanistan will now t
not out) to belt three sixes – for 5 (Gurbaz 43, Rishad 3Defending a modest total over the past few years and face South Africa in the first Bangladesh team which lost there was only one more in 26) beat Bangladesh 105 of 115-5 on a bowler- we were dreaming of this semi-final in Trinidad on heavily to semi-final the entire innings – in the (Litton 54*, Rashid 4-23, friendly surface, Rashid d a y I t ’s a s u r r e a l Wednesday qualifiers India in their last final two overs to help Naveen 4-26) by eight runs finished with figures of 4-23 experience,” said a relieved Earlier, leg-spinner match two days ago, dribble the score over the via DLS method.
Young Guyanese horse owner
Kevin Prince strikes gold in USA
Twenty-seven year old Guyanese horse based Guyanese began his journey in horse owner Kevin Stephenson Prince
gold racing at a tender age, and racing
in his with a win in the United States of America. family veins. He noted that his father and His horse Dads Good Runner won in New unclewerehorseowners. York last weekend at the Belmont at the Big “My uncle was a jockey/trainer where I A. spent most of time being around and where I According to Prince, there were some learntalotabouthorses.It’sbeenmypassion nerves leading up to the race, knowing the since then. As a youth I started having my caliberoftheotherjockeys. own horses in Guyana, which I won a few “Going into the race with Dads Good raceswith.” Runner, I was a bit nervous with the Whilesuccessissweet,Princehadhisfair competition.ButIknewhewaswellprepared share of challenges in horse racing. “After for the race and I was hoping he got the migrating to the United States my dream was perfect trip, which he had went out the lead to own a race horse and win a race here in the andneverlookback,”Princesaid. USA.”Princedreambecamearealityafter The passionate 27-year-old overseas- (Continued on page 25)
Afghanistan
to watch the must-win Super Eight match against
(AFP via Getty Images)
The connections of Dads Good Runner during last weekend’s win in the USA.
struck
runs
Carlos Peterson-Griffith is Guyana’s second WR holder and first Open Classic
Winston ‘The Little Master’ Stoby Master
KFC Elite League Season Six
Wh i l s t t h e nation is still i n a
celebratory mood and overjoyed by the recent feat of Carlos ‘The Showstopper’ PettersonGriffith at the recent Worlds
O p e n P o w e r l i f t i n g Championship held in Druskininkai Lithuania, the G u y a n a A m a t e u r Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) would like to inform the public that Carlos becamethefirstathleteinthe Open category to set a world record with his squat of 337.5kg.
- Winston ‘The Little Master’ Stoby was our first as a Masters 2 athlete
Guyana Police Force FC hold firm in third with victory over Buxton United FC
- Santos FC secure fourth place with win over Ann’s Grove United FC
Santos fired six goals past Ann’s Grove in their victory.
Carlos Petterson-Griffith
One would recall that he had attempted this feat in England at Sheffield 24 but came up short in that memorable battle with the USA’s Gavin Aiden. The records of GAPLF informs that the first Guyanese athlete to achieve a world record in the sport is the trail blazing and accomplished, Winston ‘The little Master’ Stoby Stoby’s feat was achieved over a decade ago newrecordof277.5kgtowin bronze is also commendable in the 74kg Masters 2 the gold medal in that lift but in his first year as a senior Division, first at the World hadtosettleforoverallsilver athlete and the Federation is Masters Powerlifting medal as the USA’s Gregory confident that Tyrell will Championships held in Pagewonthegold.Hedidtry continue to grow and set Killeen Texas, October 2012 to raise the bar even higher himselfapartinthesport. and he added more kgs by attempting 280kg on his Meanwhile, next up for almostayearlateratthe31st thirdandfinalliftbutwasnot Guyana on the international World Masters Men’s successful, he set the new scene will be the World PowerliftingChampionships WRonhissecondattempt. Classic & Equipped Subheld in Orlando, Florida, The GAPLF and by Junior & Junior Powerlifting September,2013. extension, the nation, is very Championships set for Carrying the nation on proud of both Stoby and Malta, August/September his shoulders then, Stoby Petterson-Griffith for their where Romeo Hunter would destroyed his old deadlift achievements and would be competing in his final World Record of 272.0kg set continue to work towards year as a sub-junior. Hunter one year earlier at the World high standards being won the Squat gold medal at Masters Powerlifting maintained. the 2023 championship Championships held in D
Killeen Texas, USA with a achievement of a Deadlift Romania.
Guyana Police Force FC maintained their standings show little change Guyana grip on third place in the table with a victory Defence Force continues to lead with thirtyover Buxton United FC on Saturday night, one points, boasting ten wins and one draw, while Santos FC secured their fourth spot in accompanied by an impressive goal tally of the standings of Round Two of the KFC Elite forty-seven.
League Season Six by defeatingAnn’s Grove Slingerz FC of West Demerara maintains UnitedFC. second place with twenty-nine points,
Fans at the June 22 fixtures witnessed a securedfromninewins,twodraws,andfortycommanding performance from the Police four goals scored. Guyana Police Force is in side, who scored five goals against Buxton third place with twenty-eight points, having Unitedandconcededjustone. played eleven matches, winning nine,
Meanwhile, Santos displayed dominance drawingoneandlosingtwo. by netting six goals and shutting down all Santos FC occupies fourth position with scoring opportunities for Ann’s Grove twenty-four points, achieved through eight United. wins and five losses, while Fruta Conquerors
In the opening match at the Guyana FC follows in fifth place, accumulating Football Federation (GFF) National Training sixteen points from five wins, one draw and Centre in Providence, East Bank Demerara, sixlosses.
Neron Barrow of the Guyana Police Force Western Tigers FC remains in sixth place netted three stunning goals in the 10th, 18th with fifteen points from five wins and six and88thminutes. losses after eleven games, while Den Amstel
Chai Williams and Jermine Junor FC holds seventh place with twelve points, contributedtheremaininggoalsfortheirteam recording three wins, three draws and seven in the 74th and 84th minutes, respectively losses.
Tyreek Cummins scored Buxton United’s Ann’s Grove United FC sits in eighth solitarygoalinthe90+2ndminute. positionwithelevenpoints,havingwonthree
In the final match of the night, Santos matches, drawn two, and lost eight, followed asserted their dominance on the field with closely by Monedderlust FC in ninth position goals scored by Ryan Dowding in the 9th with nine points from two wins, three draws minute, Ian Daniels in the 25th minute, andsevenlosses.
Andrew Simmons in the 66th, 71st, and At the bottom of the table, Buxton United 90+1st minutes and Shem James in the 74th FC remains in tenth place, securing one point minute. fromasolitarydrawandtwelvelosses.
Ann’s Grove United FC faced difficulties Upcoming fixtures on June 27: GDF FC in breaking through Santos’ formidable will face off against Monedderlust FC at defence. 6:30p.m., followed by Fruta Conquerors FC
As the new week begins, the points table takingonSlingerzFCat9:00p.m.attheNTC.
