Kaieteur News

must never befall

- Vincent Adams

‘We will not be bullied’

- Striking teachers

tell Government

GTU presents proposal to court-appointed mediators to end 4-week teachers’ strike

Team Mohamed to take legal action against ‘Guyanese Critic’ for murder accusation

Qatari Investors to pay G$2B for prime Carifesta

-GOINVEST Avenue land

Jagdeo wants to know why GRA taking so long to release Exxon’s audit

Jagdeo deceiving nation with 52% profits from Exxon

Thenationisbeing deceived through b i l l b o a r d s planted countrywide by US oil major, ExxonMobil, purporting that Guyana is receiving 52% profits from the Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement(PSA).

This is according to former Head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr Vincent Adams.

During an Alliance For Change (AFC) press conference on Friday, the Petroleum Engineer explainedthatcontrarytothe explanation provided by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, in defense of Exxon's misleading billboards, Guyana will never benefit from 52% of the monthly revenues, even after the oil company's investments have been recovered.

The chief policymaker for the petroleum sector

duringhisFebruary22,2024 media engagement told reporters that Guyana will enjoy 52% of the total proceedsfromoilproduction after the costs have been repaid.

VP Jagdeo pointed out that presently 75% of the earnings are deducted to cover cost, with the remaining 25% shared with Guyana. He said however,

EPA’s former Head,

Dr. Vincent Adams

“When those costs are amortized fully, then we get 50%ofthetotalproceeds,all theprofits.Sosay100%now goes to profit oil, all the revenue goes to profit oil because you finish amortizing the investments, paying back for the investments, so now 100% of your revenue is available fordistribution,not25%.”

He said this means

Guyana will receive 50% with an additional 2% royalty, taking the country's share to 52% while Exxon wouldreceive48%.

To this end, Dr Adams said, “We watched and listened with dismay, the second VP's press conference of February 22, 2024, and thought our ears must be failing us with the disbelief of what was being spoutedbythisself-anointed oil guru from whom the peopleareexpectingtruthful information about our god givenpatrimony.”

The former EPA boss contends that there have been several letters penned by learned professionals explainingExxon'sbillboard hoaxofthe52%oilrevenues being received by Guyana, which the VP must have seen.

“The VPembarrassingly went on to expose the toxic mixture of his dutifulness to Exxonandthelimitationsof his honorary degree, when he once again prattled on with his selling of Exxon's farcical billboard touting that Guyana is getting 52% oftheoilrevenues.

Let us read and spell for the VP that it is impossible for Guyana to ever get 52% of the revenues, without the impossibilityofzerocostfor production operations,” Dr Adamsargued.

He pointed out however

One of Exxon's billboard that claims Guyana receives 52% profit share from the oil rich Stabroek Block

thattheVPcompletelyfailed to inform the nation that even after costs associated with the Stabroek Block projects have been repaid, Guyana's oil will still be deducted for operational expenses.

P r e s e n t l y , t h e operational cost is an unknown factor, but at an estimated 30%, Dr Adams said profit oil will then be

70% This means that Guyana'ssharewillbe37%half of the 70% plus the 2% royalty

The former EPA head therefore noted, “If Jagdeo wants to be seen as a real Guyanese and leader representing Guyana's interest, he must demand that Exxon immediately remove those hocus-pocus billboards.”

GTU presents proposal to court-appointed mediators to end 4-week teachers' strike

Th e G u y a n a Teachers Union (GTU) on Friday submitted its proposal to mediators outlining the terms under which the country's teachers will end industrial action and return totheclassroom.

This week marks four weeks since teachers have been on strike demanding improved salaries and better working conditions. They have been calling on the government of Guyana to engage the union in collectivebargaining.

The proposal was tabled before court-appointed mediatorsAttorneys-at-Law, RobinStobySCandEdward Luckhoo SC at the commencement of the mediationprocessonFriday In attendance were representatives of the GTU includingitsPresidentMark Lyte and Chief Education Officer (CEO) Saddam Hussain along with their legalteams.

Speaking to reporters at the High Court at the conclusion of the first day's session, Attorney for the GTUDarrenWadedisclosed thattheUnionhasnotshifted itspositionasitrelatestothe terms on which to end the

strike.

“Nothing has changed from our position and the proposal is still on the table…” he said adding that the mediation process will continueMonday.

The attorney was however tightlipped about thedetailsofmediation.

He noted that as part of their commitment to have mediation conducted in a manner that the court intended,hewasaskednotto disclose the details of the process.

“I was asked by the mediators not to discuss the issues in the public. It was alsoaskedbyMr Ramdhani that his superiors also not discuss the issues in public as we trust the system and hopethatwecancometoan amicable resolution as soon as possible,” Wade told reporters.

Earlier in the day, Wade hadexpressedoptimismthat the process would yield results “I am very optimistic , ” he said adding that much depended on the outcome of instructions that the government'slawyerswould receive from Attorney General Anil Nandlall SC whohastraveledoverseason

Statebusiness.

For his part, the Government's legal representative, Attorney-atLawDarshanRamdhaniKC alsoseemedoptimisticabout themediation.“Wehavehad a very, I believe, fruitful session.

Itisgoodthattheunionis ready now to engage the government again so we are hoping that those talks can resume,” he said following thefirstsessionofmediation onFridaymorning.

The GTU has been

proposing a 25 percent salaryincreasefor2019,and 20percentfor2019to2023, and an additional performance-based incentive of 2 percent annuallyofthetotalteachers' wagebilltoeligibleteachers during the period of the multi-yearagreement.

Further, the union wants a GY$5,000 emotional/ stress/risk allowance; a monthly Internet allowance o f G Y $ 1 0 , 0 0 0 ; a GY$10,000 monthly allowance to teachers who

usetheirvehiclestoperform official duties, and a fixed monthly allowance of G Y $ 7 , 0 0 0 f o r headteachers/principals to conduct business on behalf oftheirinstitutions.

On Thursday, Justice Sandil Kissoon invoked the Civil Procedures Rules

2016, Part 26 for Court Ordered Mediation to resolve the ongoing industrial action that has impacted the education systemforclosetoamonth.

Justice Kissoon

announced that Senior Counsel, Edward Luckhoo and Robin Stoby have agreedtoserveasmediators inthenationalinterest.

The orders were made despite repeated objections from the Attorney General (AG).

I n v o i c i n g h i s reservation, theAG had told theCourtthatthetwoparties have had a track record of consistentdialogue.

He noted thatnothing is stoppingtheGovernmentvia the Ministry of Education and the Guyana Teachers Union(GTU)fromspeaking again.

“There is already a framework in place, let the partiesbeallowedtoresume talks under the same arrangement.

The government has never reneged from meeting with the union and I don't think that the mediation is necessary because the union can come back and begin negotiations,” the Attorney Generalhadsaid.

However,AttorneyWade told the court that despite several attempts, the government has refused to engage in collective bargaining as it relates to teachers'salaries.

Jagdeo wants to know why GRA taking so long to release

ExxonMobil’s audit reports

Vice-President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo at his w e e k l y p r e s s conference on Thursday promised that he will find out why the GuyanaRevenueAuthority(GRA) is taking so long to release the reports of two audits on billions of US Dollars in expenses racked up By ExxonMobil from 1999 to 2020.

“Soletmefindoutwhythisone [one of the audit reports] is not in the public domain,” Jagdeo told reporters after Kaieteur News told him that its attempts to source the reports from the GRA have been futile.

So far two audits have been conductedtoreviewExxonMobil's multibillion expenses for the lucrative Stabroek Block.The first was done by a British Firm IHSMarkit and was a review of some

US$1.6billionincostsincurredby Exxon during the period 1999 to 2017. The second was done by a local consortium, VHE, supported by an overseas company for some US$7.3Binexpensesrackedupby the Oil Company from 2018 to 2020.

Jagdeo said that while one of the audit reports may be publicly available, he will find out why the other has not been made available. It must be noted that the two audit reports handed over to the government were never released through the appropriate governmentchannels.

Instead, the documents were leakedtosectionsofthemediathat widelypublicizedthefindings.

The Vice-President has repeatedly said that he and his Cabinetwanttostayfarawayfrom getting involved with audits to

avoidpoliticalinterferenceandhas directed the media to get the documents from GRA because it has the authority to make them public.

However, three years have passedandtheagencyhasfailedto

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

release the two audit reports to the public.

The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) ReportonGuyanafor2021flagged the secrecy of ExxonMobil's audit reports.

In 2019 ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) began producing oil in the Stabroek Block. To this end,thereportnoted,“Theamount of cost oil deductible by EMGLin arriving at profit oil is subject to audit by the Government of Guyana.At the date of this report, twosuchauditswerecarriedoutby separate teams, but agreement has not been reached on any potential adjustmentstobemade.”

It added, “These reports have not been made available to the public as the audits are considered incomplete.”

The core objective of the EITI report is to help the understanding of the level of contributions of the extractive sector to the economic andsocialdevelopmentofGuyana to improve transparency and good governance at all levels of the extractiveindustryvaluechain.

Senior Counsel, Robin Stoby

Senior Counsel, Edward Luckhoo

Tel:

Contracts and contractors

Itlookslikesomebodyingovernmenthasputacontract on Guyanese. It might be more accurate to posit that the PPPCGovernment,initsmanyagenciesandfunctionaries, have taken out a contract on helpless Guyanese taxpayers. Billions upon billions in contracts for public works are awarded to mostly favored contractors, and the more they arehandedouttocronies,themorecontroversiestheyraise, andthemorecoverupsseemtobetheorderoftheday The Guyanesetaxpayeralwaysenduppaying,isneverlessthan theperpetualloser

According to Opposition Member of Parliament, Mr Ganesh Mahipaul, work on contracts awarded for pump stationsareyettobegin. Thisisdespiteahalfyearelapsing sincetheawardofthecontract. Theweatherwasfavorable formostoflastyear,henceitcouldnothavebeenafactor The issue is whether the contract was given to the wrong contractor,whoisnownotabletoperforminkeepingwith the contract terms. When we say wrong contractor, our focusisonaccesstotherequiredfinancing($1.7B),which maybeprovingtobeoutofreach. Thereistheconcernthat thetypeofequipmentneededtogetthejobdoneisnotpart of the resources of the winning contractor By saying the ‘wrong’ contractor, the questions for the six months and countingdelayinstartingcouldbeaboutpossessionofthe necessary skills and experience to deliver pursuant to the contractterms.

Nobodywinsa$1.7Bcontractandthensitsonitforsix months. Nocontractor,nomatterhowcloselyconnectedto powerfulpoliticalpeople,shouldbegivenafreepasswhen heorhisgroupishangingbyathread,andholdsaGuyanese communityhostage.

There have been too many of these so-called winning bids,withtoomanyquestionssurfacingaboutthepropriety ofthetenderdecision-makingprocess. Manyareafraidto speakoutoffearoflosingoutforgoodonanybidsthatthey make. To put differently, they do their best through tight silencemaintained,sothatthedreadedmarkofbeingplaced onablacklistisnottheirs. TheNationalProcurementand Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) has been more concerned about maintaining silence than shedding any light on how it arrives at tender decisions that raise many questions,andwhichleavelocaltaxpayersinahole. Ifthis $1.7B award for pump stations was the only one that has made the news in recent times, it could be counted as an unusual event with little significance. But that is not the case.Fortherehasbeenamuchbiggercontractawardthat has generated no end of controversy, with no answers comingfromanyofficialsource.

NPTABhadawardedacontractfor$865Mforapump stationinBelleVue,WestDemerara. Questionswereraised aboutthequality(credentials)ofthewinningbidder,which left NPTAB looking in less than a favorable light. Opposition Member of Parliament, Mr David Patterson, wrote to the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) over twomonthsagotogetsomeclarityonwhattookplacewith the suspect award. Silence and stonewalling have been whathascomefromthePPC.

ThePPCispartofthecheckandbalancethatisinplace to get to the bottom of just such a situation. Instead of representing the interests of Guyanese taxpayers for a contract that is in the vicinity of a billion dollars, the PPC hasbeencontenttomanifestalargelylameduckstatus. The first surprise was that it was encountering difficulties in getting NPTAB to release the pertinent tender documents. Since then, the PPC has been a study in weakness and limpness. Itcannotmove,ithasnoanswerstoprovide,and it is content to let matters linger in that state of extended suspense.

Whetheritisonlyoneinstance,ortwo,thatmadeitinto thepublicdomain,thefactremainsthatlocaltaxpayersare taken for a ride over and over and year after year Parliamentary committees meet, the media reports, a few citizensvoicetheiroutrage,thenitisbacktobusinesswith nobodypenalized.

They died under the rubble so that hopefully, the living can enjoy a just and lasting peace

DEAREDITOR, Behind the collective punishment of Palestinians at Gaza and the Occupied West Bank by Israel, there will be many untold stories about the 30,000 civilian deaths; 70,000 wounded; of 4,500 prisoners 350 held in administrative detention; an increaseby20-35percentin deaths of premature born babies; the death of 50,000 physically disabled persons; the birth 20,000 babies duringthewar;thekillingof more than 10,000 children; 25,000 ‘unaccompanied’ children or orphans; more than half a million students withoutschools,morethana hundred massacred in a desperate race for food; more than 2,780 widowed women; 1 9 million displaced persons; a populationdensityof14,000 persons for every 2 59 square metres or one square mile; destruction of buildings,hospitals,schools, and religious institutions; hundreds of kilometers of roads dug up; 300,000 who would have walked for 9 hours from Northern to Southern Gaza; blocking food and medicine; children eating food unfit for human

consumption; 50,000 suffering from respiratory infections, meningitis, skin rashes, scabies, lice infestation, hepatitis, chicken pox, cholera and typhoid.

During Israel’s war on Gaza, we’ve read or viewed episodes about Israeli Defence Force (IDF) soldiersdigginguphundreds of graves of slain Palestinians and carting off the corpses to unknown locations to determine their trueidentities.

Israel’s top military’s lawyer on February 21, 2024,reportedthatheroffice h a d d i s c o v e r e d ‘’unacceptable conduct by Israeli forces in Gaza, including some that appeared criminal, and warned that commanders must prevent unjustified force and destruction or plunder of civilian property.’’

She went on to add; that “inappropriate statements that encourage unacceptable phenomena; the application of non-operationally justified force, including on detainees; looting, which includes the use or disposal of private property that

doesn’t serve an operational use; and the destruction of civilian property against orders.”

At the same time, the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor reported receiving‘dozensofhorrific testimonies about the IDF’s practice of sadistic abuse, torture, and inhuman treatment, including severe beatings,abuse,humiliation, and attacks on personal dignity, against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip after storming their homes, shelter centers, or on the roads.’

News reports have emerged informing that; approximately 600 Israeli soldiers have been killed; over 1,600 Israeli soldiers have suffered from signs of stress, shell shock, and combat fatigue and have been treated by ‘Combat Fatigue Teams’ established immediately since the start ofthewar. IDF reported that approximately 3,000 soldiers and reservist soldiers called the IDF’s mental health hotline, and over 100 soldiers have been discharged from service due topsychologicaldifficulties.

Moreover, according to IDF sources,mostofthesoldiers sought treatment in the first four weeks after October 7, 2023 and long before the startofthegroundoperation intheGaza.

Israel’s war on Gaza is likely to end with major geopoliticalrepercussionsin the Middle East. Moreover, it is unlikely that Israel will succeed in achieving its declaredgoalsinthatwar In fact, it is likely to end up isolated within the internationalcommunity

Failure to establish a Palestinian state will remain thegreatestobstacletopeace in the Middle East Achieving a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue will require joint initiatives and cooperation between Iran, Russia, Turkey, the United States and Western Europe. From its seat at the UN Security Council, Guyana can contribute positively to a joint initiative that can ensure that those who perished under the rubble died in order that the living can, hopefully, enjoy a just andlastingpeace.

Yoursfaithfully,

ClementJ.Rohee

What is the real motive of The Opposition and its acolytes?

DEAREDITOR,

When you take a good look at the Opposition and their associates you get the clear message that these individuals and groups are onacampaigntoimpoverish this country and return it to the backwater state of yesteryear At the onset of our sovereign wealth there has been an inundated rush by the forces of doom to either stop or bring an end any developmental good of our nation. Hardly a day passes that something negative is not said or done tosabotageTheGovernment oftheday

The naysayers are everywhere and, in every fabric, to undermine our nationwidedrivetoprogress.

They have resigned themselves into that diabolical place to painfully u n d e r d e v e l o p a n d demoralizethiscountry

Thelistislong,butIhave itemizedafewofthese:

The Opposition voted down a comprehensive Budget 2024, with special

emphasis placed on Oil and gas This was a cold calculated effort to cripple The Government, by removing all sourcing of funds to energize capital works.

The Opposition voted downthegastoshoreenergy project claiming that it was tooexpensivetobuildone,in addition, that it would not make any significant changes to the national energy grid. Note well, the gasunderreviewisatpresent being wasted either by flaring or being reinjected into the earth, in either scenario that natural gas is lost forever, and the country isbereftofitsvaluableuses.

Opposition voted down The Amaila HEP Project, a renewable energy supply project that would redound to the benefit of all of Guyana. Ever since 2015 Amaila would have gone a great way in satisfying our energy needs Guyana, would have been the proud recipients of cheaper, reliable and cost-efficient

energyforyearstocome.All ofthiscametoanabruptend when The PNC Led Coalitioncametooffice.

O n e s o - c a l l e d

environmentalist Mrs. Deane-Hughes took the governmenttocourttoorder The International Oil Extractor Exxon Mobil to immediately cease Oil extractionhere.

S o - c a l l e d

environmentalist Melinda Janki issued a letter to The American lending agency to block all funds for the building of the Gas to Shore Project

Opposition vehemently opposesthereopeningofand continuing development of theSugarIndustry Sugarhas beenasurehistoricalpillarin piloting this country in its worstoftimesandwouldbe a notable feature in our economic diversification effortintheavoidanceofthe DutchDiseaseaffectingus.

OppositionForcesisona campaign, demanding that The Government stop all infrastructural works aimed

atmodernizingtheeconomy andfocustheirattentionand funding on APNU Strongholds.

While casting down the Oil industry, Opposition Forces are demanding that monies from the Sovereign WealthFundshouldbespent on striking teachers only, or f o r t h e m t o b e disproportionately enriched over and above all other sectorsintheeconomy

So called International Environmentalists wants Exxon Mobil to report to t h e m b e f o r e a n y development could take place in Guyana, this is unheard of in the civilized world.

Opposition forces are just waiting in the sidelines for negative things to take place,sothattheymaygloat in it. They keep lamenting the fact that an Oil spill that would cause massive destruction hasn’t taken place yet. It is a morbid campaign waged on the peopleofGuyana,andan (Continuedonapge05)

DEAREDITOR,

The Guyana Lands and Survey Commission should provide the survey plan for Transport #337 of 1887 to verify Quintin Hogg’s land donation to the Mayor and City Council. It’s unclear why GLSC is reluctant to present this critical piece of information.

U n f o r t u n a t e l y, GLSC’s statement published in the Guyana Chronicle on January 20, 2 0 2 4 , c o n t a i n s inaccuracies that may misleadthepublic

GLSC erroneously

claims that Lots 1 and 2 of Plantation Thomas were part of the allocation granted to the colonial authority in 1863

However, the official gazette of August 27, 1864, and transport issued in 1864 confirm that they were not included Moreover, GLSC’s claim that Lot 2, comprising 15 acres, was transferred to Quintin Hoggisalsoincorrect

The official gazette, transport of 1864, and Chalmers’ diagram prove that Lot 2 is only five acres with a right of

drainage to the land throughCummingsCanal.

Additionally, GLSC claims that the council’s property is south of Woolford Avenue, which is impossible since it is smaller than Hogg’s donation Given these discrepancies, the central a n d m u n i c i p a l governments must resolve this issue urgently and prevent it from escalating toajudicialprocess

Sincerelyyours,

LelonSaul

LtCol(Ret’d) Councillor

Clarification on land donation CRG support ceasefires

DEAREDITOR, CRG supports having ceasefires in the war currently going on in the Middle East that respects Shabbat. It will ensure that both sides regain an appreciation for Shabbat, and will encourage that no further attacks from both sidesoccuronthisday

Also, it will allow the region to remember the sixday war of 1967 and the significanceofit. Wemustasahumanrace embrace the fact that our strengthisnotinourmilitary, butintherighteousnessofour fight Returning of the hostages and increasing the respect for life will also

remindusallthatweshould notkilleachother Itistime for serious reflection on the value of life and the return towards a path that respects it.

Sincerely,

Mr.JamilChanglee Chairman

T h e C o o p e r a t i v e RepublicansofGuyana

What is the real motive...

Frompage04 attempt to gain maximum attention to their diabolical cause.

Either the Opposition and its allies believe that Guyaneseareplainstupidor that their doomsday formulas would cripple the government.

In either scenario these naysayers and prophets of doom would not stop this country from moving forward.

Ten major projects - and there may be more - have been callously voted down

and the naysayers continue in their campaign to tear downanddestroy

So, we ask the question, where is the patriotism? Where’s the love of country the naysayers so claim to have?

Buttheywillnotsucceed in turning back the hand of progress,thisisnotgoingto happen, because we are determined to build our country, and to make it one ofthebest.

We stand committed, as hand in hand with our government we will press

Hamas says seven captives killed in Israeli army bombing of Gaza

The group’s military wing confirms the news after an investigation although it does not state when the captives died.

Aljazeera -The military wingofthePalestiniangroup Hamas says seven more captives held in the Gaza Striphavediedasaresultof Israel’s bombardment of the besiegedenclave.

Abu Obeida, the spokesperson for Hamas’s Qassam Brigades, made the statement on the Telegram apponFriday

The group said it confirmed the news following investigations conducted over the past few weeks after it had lost contact with the fighters who had been holding the captives.

Hamas seized about 250Israelisandforeigners during its October 7 attacks on southern Israel, of whom about 130 are believed to still be held captive.

The Qassam Brigades said three of the captives mentioned in Friday’s statement had been identified, but it did not clarifywhenthesevenhad died

onwards to build a prosperouscountry This does not mean that there would not be mistakes made, far from it,therearepitfallsthatlie ahead, and mistakes could surface their way into our vocabulary, but resolve the right, that if we do not know, we shall seek adviceonthewayforward from reputable sources Guyana is on an upward trajectory, and nothing is goingtostopusnow

RespectfullySubmitted

Neil Adams

The group said the total number of captives killed as a result of Israeli military operations “may haveexceeded”70

‘Second priority’ for Israel

The deaths of the captives show that Israel’s

government considers them a “secondary priority”, Omar Ashour, a professor of security and military studies at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, told Al Jazeera

“The[Israelimilitary’s] first priority is to destroy the armed wing of Hamas and the other Palestinian factions, to undermine them in any way, even if it costs the lives of some of thehostages,”Ashoursaid

Friday’s reported deaths also indicate that Israel’s war strategy is not achieving its objectives, he said,adding:“Weareinthe 147th day of the war, and there are more and more hostages dying, the majority of them by Israeli fire.”

During a Qatarimediated weeklong truce in November, 105 captives were released in exchange for 150 Palestinian women and children held in Israeli prisons.

Israel’s war on Gaza has

killed at least 30,228 Palestinians, according to theGazaMinistryofHealth. The death toll in Israel from the October 7 attacks stands at1,139.

Egyptian, Qatari and United States mediators are currentlyscramblingtolock downanewtruce

In telephone talks on Thursday, the three countries’ leaders set out what a ceasefire deal could look like, the White House said

“ T h e l e a d e r s underscored that the release of hostages would result in an immediate and sustained ceasefire in Gaza over a period of at least six weeks,” the White House said.

However,Israel’sWalla news site, citing a senior Israeli official, reported that Israel has told Egypt and Qatar that it will not proceed with ceasefire negotiations until Hamas sends it a list of Israeli captives who remain alive intheGazaStrip

Biden announces US plan to airdrop aid to Gaza

BBC-USPresidentJoe Biden has announced that the US will begin airdropping aid into Gaza, one day after dozens were killedscrambleforsupplies.

“Weneedtodomoreand the United States will do more,” Mr Biden said on Friday as he announced the USplan.

Thedecisioncomesamid tense ceasefire negotiations, and as political pressure builds for Mr Biden to help curtail Israel’s operation in Gaza.

Air drops have been criticised by aid groups as costlyandinsufficient.

“Oxfamdoesnotsupport US airdrops to Gaza, which would mostly serve to relieve the guilty consciences of senior US officials whose policies are contributing to the ongoing atrocities and risk of famine in Gaza,” the charity group saidonFriday

“While Palestinians in Gaza have been pushed to

the absolute brink, dropping apaltry,symbolicamountof aid into Gaza with no plan for its safe distribution wouldnothelpandbedeeply degrading to Palestinians,” Oxfam said, adding that the US should instead work to “cut the flow of weapons to Israel”.

OnThursday,atleast112 Palestinians were killed and more than 760 injured as they crowded around aid lorriesenteringGazaCity.

“Innocent people got caught in a terrible war, unabletofeedtheirfamilies. And you saw the response when they tried to get aid,”

An aid package is seen parachuting into Gaza on Friday

MrBidensaidonFriday.

“Butweneedtodomore, andtheUnitedStateswilldo more.”

What video and eyewitness accounts tell us about Gazans killed at aid drop Hamas, which governs Gaza,accusedIsraeloffiring at civilians, but Israel said mostdiedinastampedeafter itfiredwarningshots.

Roughly one quarter of Gaza’s population are currentlyatriskoffamineas

the humanitarian crisis sparkedbythewarcontinues to swell, according to UN figures.

UN agency chief PhilippeLazzarinicalledthe planned airdrop “a lastresort, extraordinarily expensive way of providing assistance”,sayingitwasnot the answer to problems in Gaza.

“The real answer is: Openthecrossingsandbring convoys and medical assistance into the Gaza

Strip,” he told reporters on Thursday

White House National S e c u r i t y C o u n c i l Spokesman John Kirby said that the US will continue to work toward bringing aid to Gaza by land and sea, as well, and that it has not stopped pressing for a ceasefire.

The US announcement comes one day after Jordanian air force pilots dropped 33 tonnes of medical supplies and food intoGaza

According to the Wa s h i n g t o n P o s t , Jordanianplaneshavealso dropped aid provided by the US and the UK, while planes from France, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates have also participated in similar operations.

The Israeli military launched a large-scale air and ground campaign to destroy Hamas - which is proscribed as a terrorist organisation by Israel, the UK and others - after its gunmenkilledabout1,200 people in southern Israel on 7 October and took 253 backtoGazaashostages.

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We must maintain a zone of peace - Pres. Ali

“Latin America and the Caribbean must remain a Zone of Peace.

The never-ending war in Ukraine and the unceasing bombing of Gaza are senseless acts of aggression and inhumanity which have consumed the efforts of the international community to find ways in which the citizens of Ukraine and Palestine can be relieved of their suffering. But so far – to no avail.

We must never allow the peoples of this region to be subjected to such actions.

The genocide in Palestine must come to an end and hostages held must be returned.”

“The aspect relating to Venezuela's claim to the Essequibo is before the International Court of Justice and the Joint Declaration of Argyle on Dialogue and Peace acknowledges that Guyana is committed to the process and procedures of the International Court of Justice for the resolution of the border controversy. We are prepared to accept the judgement of the Court on this matter. I can assure you that Guyana remains steadfast in its commitment to the international judicial process, as well as, to maintaining our region as a ‘Zone of Peace'. We want peace.”

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Qatari Investors to pay G$2B for prime Carifesta Avenue -GOINVEST

TheQatariInvestorswho have been given the green lighttobuilda5StarHotelon Carifesta Avenue, are expectedtopayG$2Bforthe prime lands, the Guyana Office for Investment (GOINVEST) disclosed on Thursdaynight.

GOINVEST's statement followed questions from Kaieteur News to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursdayathisweeklypress conference held at Freedom House, Robb Street,

Georgetown.

“Can you say, what was thesellingpricefortheprime lands given to the Qatari hotel?” the Kaieteur News reporter asked to which the Vice President responded, “No you can talk to GOINVEST about that. You deal with GOINVEST because you will see all the termsofthedeal.”

The local investment office in its statement said that “As part of the signed MoU, the company is

expectedtopurchasetheland forGY$2Billion.”

GOINVEST noted that the inking of the MoU is a major step for the country's tourism and hospitality landscape and the project whichwillbespearheadedby AssetsGroup,asubsidiaryof Power International Holding (PIH) with an expected completion date of March 1st, 2026. The Hotel will house 260 rooms and suites, 150 serviced apartments which will include branded

residences and premium villas.

“Power International Holding(PIH),aQatar-based conglomerate has a diverse portfolio spanning various sectors such as real estate, hospitality, construction, manufacturing, and services. PIHhasestablisheditselfasa prominent player in the Qatari business landscape and has expanded its operations internationally in nineteen (19) different countries,” the statement added.

GOINVEST also said that, “Notably, this development frontally addresses the country's deficit of quality room stock by more than doubling the number of available rooms withinaone-mileradius.The resort will feature a world class 30,000 square ft convention center outfitted with all modern amenities to

cater to international conferences and events of diverse scales, thereby increasing Guyana's competitiveness as a MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences,andexhibitions) tourismdestination.”

The investment office also explained in the statement that the, “InvestmentAgreementwith the Government of Guyana, facilitated through the Guyana Office for Investment, is in its final stages, aimed at providing fiscalconcessionsinkeeping with the standard incentive regime for hotel businesses andthetourismsector.”

Thestatementcontinued: “Itmustberecalledthatsince resuming office in 2020, the People's Progressive Party/Civic Government receivedseveralproposalsto construct internationally branded hotels and state-of

the-art convention centers in Guyana This particular proposal compares very favorably to all others received.”

Since the announcement oftheacquisitionoflandsby the Qatari Investors, the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has asserted its ownership of the lands the investors intend to buildaUS$300Mhotelon.

During a statutory meeting held on Monday, City Mayor Alfred Mentore circulated a transport that purports to show Council's ownership of the prime waterfront property to the over30councilorspresentat themeeting.

Mentore was adamant that the issue of the ownership of the lands should be urgently attended to and sought to suspend the Council'sStandingOrdersto (Continuedonpage17)

Sorry, there is no hypocrisy involved!

Th e r e i s n o h y p o c r i s y c o n c e r n i n g Guyana’s position on Haiti.

This is a misinformed position that stems from the conclusion that while Guyana claims to be in solidarity with the people of Haiti, it had revoked the policywhichallowedHaiti’s free movement to the country

For the government of Guyana to be accused of hypocrisyforthisistoindict also the overwhelming majority of Member States oftheCaribbean.Allbuttwo Caribbeanstatesrequirevisa forHaitians.

In 2018, the Caribbean Communityacceptedalegal opinion, which argued that Haitian nationals were entitled, as members of the Caribbean Community, to a six-month automatic entry into other member states. In accordance with this decision, the APNU+AFC government moved quickly to issue an Immigration Order granting Haitians a six-monthautomaticentry

Barbados and Dominica didthesame.However,they have since reversed gear after facing a pushback at home.

In the case of Guyana, the pushback came from across the border. The Brazilians were concerned aboutthelargemovementof Haitians through Guyana and as part of a human traffickingring.Itwasfound forexamplethatthemajority ofthosecomingintoGuyana did not legally exit the countryanditwasfoundthat most of them had gone to BrazilandFrenchGuiana.In fact, a group of Haitians were found lost and wandering in the forests alongthetrailtoLethem.

The flood of Haitian immigrants has caused BraziltoengagetheGuyana Government on the issue. The Brazilians had been exerting pressure on the Guyanese Government to stem the flow of illegal Haitian immigrants entering their country through Guyana Many of these Haitian immigrants were using Guyana as a transit point to enter Brazil to seek employmentortogotoother South American countries suchasChile.InChilethere is a significant Haitian community of around 200,000. Haitians were also being trafficked to the United States. A large number of Haitians were in themassivemigrantcaravan to the USA last year A UN report found that Haitians were paying as much as US$4, 500 per person to be trafficked to the USA overland and by sea Guyana was also cited as part of a human trafficking route through corridors in Brazil and through Colombia. Mexican human trafficking cartels were believed to be involved in traffickingHaitians.

Itwasinresponsetothis problem of human traffickingthatthePresident ofGuyanaissuedOrder9of 2021 revoking the Immigration Order which hadentitledHaitianstoasixmonth automatic entry into Guyana This revocation Order was published in the Extraordinary Official Gazette of June 22, 2021. Haitians now require a visa tocometoGuyana.Theyare notdebarred.

Only two Caribbean states allow visa-free entry to Haitians. The policy of requiring visas for Haitians was explained by the then

Chairman of CARICOM, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda. Prime Minister Browne conceded that nationals of member states that are part of the regional single market are entitled to move freely across the Caribbean. However, he explained that CARICOM memberstatescantakesteps to prevent mass and illegal migration of Haitians to prevent the violation of immigrationrules.

Mr Browne said the issue has been raised with Haiti in the past. “That has been a vexing issue not necessarily in keeping with the Treaty requirements but we have to be pragmatic aboutthesethings.”

T h e C A R I C O M Chairmannotedthatmemberstateshavehadtotakestepsto curbthemovementofHaitians especially by those who have violated the protocols but instead have been smuggled into various countries in the region

“It’sonethingtohavethe righttomovebutifyoudonot follow the administrative arrangements and the legal arrangements and you are smuggled into the country, thenevidentlystepshavetobe takentoprotecttheintegrityof thereceivingState,”hesaid

One senior CARICOM official had indicated that there was illegal activity involving Haitians who under normal circumstances would be allowed “free access” to enter like other CARICOM nationals but there is growing evidence thattheyarebeingtrafficked

Those who therefore attempt to describe the Guyana government’s actions towards Haiti as hypocritical need to avail themselves of a thorough

DEM BOYS SEH

Dat’s wat friends are for

Kaieteur News – A friend in need is a friend indeed. Nuff times when yuh deh bad, is only yuh friend does come to yuh rescue. Dat’s wat friends arefor

As delyricsofdesong goes:

“Keep smiling, keep shining Knowing you can always count on me, for sureThat’swhatfriendsare forForgoodtimesandbad times I’ll be on your side forever more That’s what friends are for” Some friendscomewithbenefits.

But a friend who is only a friend because of the benefitsisnofriendatall.

Last Sunday, a man losehegoodfriend.Hetalk how de friend abuse de friendship. Well is mostly yuh friends and yuh other loved ones wah does stab yuh in yuh back. Dat is de wayofdeworld.

Dem boys know wat it is to lose a dear friend. Even though yuh vex with dem, yuh does miss dem company In yuh lonely hours, yuh does remember de good times yuh bin had

understanding of the decision of the government. They can hardly condemn the Guyana government for its visa policy towards Haitians while excusing the rest of the Caribbean governments who have

enactedsimilarpolicies.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this n e w s p a p e r a n d i t s affiliates.)

togetherandyuhdoeslang fuhdemtimesfuhreturn.

We all does need someone to lean on. And dereisnobettershoulderto support yuh burdens dan dat of a friend. As Bill Withersdidsing:

“Leanonme

Whenyou’renotstrong AndI’llbeyourfriend I’ll help you carry on…”

But as de saying goes, once bitten, twice shy Sometimes de best ah friendsdoesgattopart.

TalkHalf!LeffHalf!

BY GHK LALL

Infrastructureversusinhabitants

Infrastructure is about what is unmoving, unbreathing,andunliving. It hasnotemperature,nopulse, no sense of feeling. In the sum of its monuments to progress, and grand spending, it is about what is stone cold, dead wood, and steel and glass caskets. But the race for more and more infrastructure works has become the highest priority inGuyana.

Thereisanurgencyabout spending money on infrastructure, like the Chinese did with their Great Wall, no matter the human toll Like the Egyptian Pharoah did, regardless of what it took in flesh and blood casualties. We still admirethoseiconicemblems oftheworldsofantiquityand mystery No expense is spared, no provision is overlooked here, to get the

most out of infrastructure projects (and that could be read in any way, with an emphasis on the traditional andpolitical). Thementality of those behind such priorities is to build now, so that the opportunities to get couldbehadnow

In contrast, there are thosewhomove,breathe,and live with intensifying difficulty in this society They are the people of Guyana, and with an emphasisonthebulkofthem thatformthebroadcohortof poorandstruggling,limping, andlickingtheirhurts.

When compared to the lavishness that is heaped on inanimate infrastructure in Guyana, the inhabitants of thisnationcomeoutadistant second Theirs is the grimness of an extended experience that should not be. Notinthisgoldenageof

oil. Theyfeelthehardpinch of deep piercings, but their criesarelargelyignored. The attitude of President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo is: tek dah, and count yuself lucky that is nah less, that our generosity delivers this level charity Itischarity,isitnot?

At least, when compared to whathasbeenspent,andisto bespent,oninfrastructure.

Undoubtedly, massive infrastructure undertakings have place and merits. I march past with eyes fixed straightahead,soastoavoid getting entangled in local traditionsofself-help. Think towards, quality of work delivered,andcosts(original and additional to taxpayers).

Thoseaside,Icannotendorse infrastructure spending at levels identified, and subscribe to the miserly, niggling, and paltry allocationsfordirectreliefto

the people. Those groping for a way out of the cost-ofliving, and wider economic morass. Therehastobemore of a balance, a spending gap involving the nonhuman and human that is narrower Considering the extravagant amounts approved in the last two national budgets for cement and steel, and paint and putty, versus what has been earmarked to provide relieftothosepushedtodrag themselves through each challenging day, I come to thisplace.

ThankstoExcellencyAli and Supreme Excellency Jagdeo,thereisinfrastructure enrichment in one pan of the s c a l e , a n d h u m a n impoverishmentintheother

For those who applaud the hundreds of billions in budgetary outlays for roads and bridges, and under the broad, expansive tent, of capital expenditure, here is a little illustration extracted fromreallife.

If Guyanese are still capableofthinking,stillhave a heart, the logic is irrefutable. Iftheystillhave some residual honesty in them, the commonsense is infallible.

The government builds a sprawling network of public projects. The roads and bridges bring the world right to the doorstep. What could bemoreenergizingthanthat, more fulfilling…. Now here

is the dark side of all t h a t c o s t l y modernization,allthose haloed expressions of President Ali's version of wisdom, and Vice President Jagdeo's supposed smarts

Theroadsconnectthemenin their carts, their laden, openbacked trucks, to the villagers, among whom are pensioners, minimum wage workers, public service contributors, and their families The calls are compelling: 'bangamary and coarse shrimp.' Or 'baigan and ba-gee” (eggplant and s p i n a c h , f o r t h e enlightenment of Alistair Routledge and his kind)

Now for the handicap, and it is a crippling one, a roundthe-clock one: the villagers, pensioners, and cast of workers do not have money in their pockets to partake of thepumpkinandsquash,and thecatfishandkorass. What thenComradeAli?

What about them, dear Comrade Jagdeo? It should nothaveeludedattentionthat the good comrade doctor Singh has been all but dismissed,andforthebestof reasons. As bright a bulb he (or was), his on and off switch is controlled by those mentionedbefore. Hissurge isdependentuponthewhims of others He is the messenger,andlikePresident Ali, he is a messenger withoutamessage.

In language that should be familiar to esteemed economist, Dr Jagdeo, the people have the best infrastructure, but they have nopurchasingpower Infact, given the ever-lengthening spirals in the cost of surviving in Guyana, their already severely constricted purchasing power is rapidly diminishing, despite budgeted relief measures Indeed, the argument could be made for velocity of money, but it is what knocks thepeopleflatontheirbacks, blows them out of participation, in this infrastructure-oriented oil country

In sum, infrastructure puts Guyana on the map, but poverty puts poor Guyanese onthebreadline.

Perhaps, this is President Ali's and Vice President Jagdeo's idea of destroying theGuyanesepeopleinorder to save them. Infrastructure is wonderful, but not when thepoorhavenomoney,can't usethemtobuyanything.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the a u t h o r a n d d o n o t necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this newspaperanditsaffiliates.)

War in Ukraine, bombing of Gaza are senseless acts of aggression that must never befall Region

Guyana's Head of State, Dr. IrfaanAli has described the war in Ukraine and the bombing of Gaza as senseless acts of aggression, whichhesaysmustneverbefallthe Region.

The President was at the time sharing remarks at the 8th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) on Friday in Saint VincentandtheGrenadines.

President Ali opened his presentation by underscoring the importance of the Region's commitmenttopeaceandstability He said, “Latin America and the Caribbean must remain a Zone of Peace. The never-ending war in Ukraine and the unceasing bombingofGazaaresenselessacts of aggression and inhumanity whichhaveconsumedtheeffortsof theinternationalcommunitytofind ways in which the citizens of Ukraine and Palestine can be relievedoftheirsuffering.

Butsofar–tonoavail.Wemust never allow the peoples of this region to be subjected to such actions. The genocide in Palestine

- Pres. Ali tells Regional Heads

assure all leaders here that Guyana's priority is peace and you can have the confidence that our territorywillnevereverbeusedasa platformofwarorforwar.”

Meanwhile, the Head of State urged that CELAC can play a pivotal role in seeking to address issues that impact the sustainable developmentoftheregion,suchas climate change, energy security, andfoodandnutritionsecurity

President Irfaan Ali addresses the 8th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) on Friday in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. (Photo credit: Office of the President)

must come to an end and hostages held must be returned.” He said it was in this vein that Guyana accepted the offer of Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves last December to facilitate a dialogue with President of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro last December to addressthetensionsthathadarisen betweenthetwoStates.

“Iassuredeveryoneatthattime,

and now, that I am prepared to speak with President Maduro on any aspect that may contribute to enhancingtherelationshipbetween our two countries The aspect relatingtoVenezuela'sclaimtothe Essequibo is before the International Court of Justice and the Joint Declaration ofArgyle on Dialogue and Peace acknowledges that Guyana is committed to the

process and procedures of the International Court of Justice for the resolution of the border controversy,”Alisaid.

The President added that Guyana is prepared to accept the judgement of the Court on this matter and the country remains committed to the international judicial process and maintaining a “Zone of Peace”. He noted, “I

Hesignaledthatclimatechange andextremeweatherconditionsare puttingtheworld'sfoodproduction and global food security at risk, which was further driven by the pandemic.AlisaidGuyana,aslead in Caricom on this initiative, continues to advocate for food and nutrition security in the region. To this end, he said that the Guyana government welcomes collaborative efforts and partnerships in the retooling effort to build the necessary capacity to meettherisingneedforexpertisein theadvancementofthissector

TeamMohamedtotakelegalactionagainst ‘GuyaneseCritic’formurderaccusation

Businessmen Nazar and AzruddinMohamedhaveindicated thattheywillbetakinglegalaction against social media personality Mikhail Rodrigues popularly known as the 'Guyanese Critic' who, on his morning show broadcast on Facebook, accused the father, son duo of committing murder

On Friday, 'Guyanese Critic' reportedlyaccusedtheduoofbeing involvedinmurder

In response later Friday, Azruddin Mohamed told Kaieteur Newsthatthe'GuyaneseCritic'will be sued for all libelous and defamatory statements made about him and his father, Nazar Mohamed.

“Theattorneysarelookingover this through the weekend and we will take legal actions in the upcoming week,” Azruddin told thisnewspaper

The'GuyaneseCritic'isalready facing a $450M lawsuit from a former opposition Member of Parliament, Simona Broomes over defamation and libel and might have found himself in hot water again after he accused the Mohameds of the murder of Ricardo Fagundes and paying moneytocoveritup.

RicardoFagundesbetterknown asPaperShorts,wasshotmorethan 20 times in March 2021 by two men,momentsaftersteppingoutof apopularnightspotonMainStreet,

Georgetown.

Themenhademergedfromthe backseatofawaitingwhiteToyota Fielder car which was heavily tinted. Police had later found a burnt-outcaratalocationalongthe

similarfatethatCriticmightfacein thecomingweek. TheMohamedshaverepeatedly denied any involvement in the murderandthe'GuyaneseCritic'in the past had defended them by publiclysayingthattheaccusations areunfounded.

He even implied that persons behind the accusations are “enemies” of the Mohameds who

fromthemtosettlewiththefamily of a dead Crane Operator, Shon Joseph, a former employee of his Company Tepui Group Construction, but only gave them $460,000 Joseph died in an industrialaccidentwhileondutyat hiscompany'sworksite.

In an attempt to refute the claims made by the Mohameds, The 'Guyanese Critic' on his live

might be trying to set them up for thecrime.

Soesdyke/LindenHighway

Thisisnotthefirsttimethatthe Mohameds have been accused of beingconnectedwithhiskilling.A police detective Sergeant Dion Bascom was the first to do so and was sued millions for libel, a

However,onFridayCriticsang a different tune where he now alleges that the Mohameds were involved in the killing. The social media personality's statement comes a day after the Mohameds accused him of collecting $5M

morning show said, “Fuh the Mohameds to come say dem give me money to settle. I don't know what is the cost for life is not me shoot somebody and kill them and paytocoveritup.Ihaveneverdone thatbefore''adding,“Iain'tplaying nice no more because there are people crying out there for their

families. The Fagundes Family wantsjustice”.

Laterinhisshow,Criticimplied that one of the reasons why the Mohameds are angry with him is because they allegedly could not gethimtohelpthemtocoverupthe murder

“Is when the Mohameds find themselves in a problem is then themrealizethatthemcan'tuseme. They thought I suppose to come andsehnomantheMohamedsain't dothis,whothef..kdiditthen?”,he said before questioning details of theinvestigationintothemurderin an attempt to directly link the Mohamedstocoveringitup.

“How the story died down? Howamangetmurderandcamera disappear?Nowthismejustsaying I f..king ready… Who got the moneyandtheresourcesfuhmake acamerainfrontofpalmcourtstop work?Who got the money and the resourcestogetabrandnewcarfuh doahitandthenburnthecarwhen itdone?Notpoorpeople.”

Following these accusations, AzruddinMohamedhasonceagain saidthatheisinnocentandsaidthat the 'Guyanese Critic' is “ungrateful”anda“liar”.

“IchallengeCriticandanyone that got any evidence about me or any associate for me involved in thatmurdertheycancomeforward and provide the evidence to the policeforceattheearliesttime,any time,”Azruddinsaid.

Prominent businessman in Guyana, Azruddin Mohamed Mikhail Rodrigues popularly known as the ‘Guyanese Critic’

‘We will not be bullied’

–StrikingteacherstellGovt.

Weeks

of being released from jail...

Convict pleads guilty to seven counts of Robbery Under Arms charges; says he was on ‘Molly’

Weeks after being released from jail, a convict pleaded guilty to seven counts of Robbery Under Arms (RUA) charges when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates' CourtonFriday.

Twenty-seven-year-old Matthew Sylvain of Lot 14 Melanie, East Coast Demerara (ECD) appeared before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly where two RUA chargeswerereadtohim.He also appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs -Marcus, where five otherRUAchargeswereread tohim.

Sylvain reportedly committed the crimes between February 21, 2024 andFebruary27,2024.

Magistrate Daly read the

RUA charges, which stated thatonFebruary27,2024,at aChineserestaurant,located on Hadfield Street, Georgetown and Louisa road,Sylvain,whilebeingin company of another, and

armed with a dangerous weapon that being a gun, robbed Adela Dosantos of one gold ring valued $24,000, one silver and

diamond ring valued $120,000 and US$300 in cash(GYD$60,000),totaling thesumof$204,000.

Sylvainisalsoaccusedof robbing Shelly Peters of one gold chain valued $370,000, $ 1 3 , 7 0 0 c a s h a n d

T T D $ 2 , 7 7 0 c a s h (GYD$67,000), total value being$421,400.

The prosecutor related that on February 27, 2024, thevictimswenttoaChinese restaurant, located at Hadfield Street on Louisa Road, where they were confrontedbySylvain.Upon his approach to Peters, he aggressively snatched the gold chain she had around her neck, and proceeded to relieve her of her valuables, whilst pointing a handgun towardsher

Following that, he demanded that Dosantos hand over her belongings. After the victims complied with Sylvain's request, he made good his escape on a motorcycle with his accomplice.

Notably, the court heard that the accused was previously sentenced to four months' imprisonment by Senior Magistrate Dylon Bess, for the offence of escaping lawful custody In addition to that, Sylvain was also on remand for armed robberyin2023,howeverthe matterwasdismissed.

He was released from prisoninJanuary,2024.

The accused pleaded guilty with explanation to both RUA charges. Sylvain explained that he was not in therightstateofmindduring therobbery

“I was under the influence of Molly,” he said, whilst noting he cannot remember precisely what occurredduringtherobbery

Magistrate Daly sentenced him to two years' imprisonment on each

February 27, 2024 at Triumph, ECD, while being in the company of another and armed with a handgun, Sylvain robbed Danian Simon of two Samsung cell phones valued $104,000, a quantity of gold jewelries valued $1, 512, 000, and $66,000 in cash, total value being $1,682,000. He also robbed Stephen Gopaul of a quantity of gold jewelries valued $1,512,000 and $66,000 in cash, total value being$1.5million.

charge.

Meanwhile, Sylvain also appearedbeforeActingChief Isaacs-Marcus and pleaded guilty to five other RUA charges.

The RUA charges stated that on February 21, 2024 at Lot 56 Back Street, Peters Hall,ECD,Sylvainwhilstin the company of another, robbedDelonMcbethofone blue and black 110 Haejue motorcycle, valued $211,000.

The Prosecutor stated that on February 21, 2024, around 20:25hrs, McBeth left home to run some errands, while returning home he observed Sylvain andanothermaleonascooter following him. However, he proceeded to go home, as he reached his house and entered his yard to park the motorcycle; Sylvain came offthescooterandpulledout a handgun, and then robbed him of his (Mcbeth) motorcycle.

Another RUA charge leveled against Sylvain, related that on February 22, 2024,atEnmoreECD,acting in consort with others, and armed with a handgun, he r o b b e d a C h i n e s e Supermarket.

The charge stated that SylvainrobbedWeiZuChen, a Chinese national of $500,000, two bottles of Johnny Walker whiskey valued$20,000,onebottleof Hennessy cognac valued $25,000, two haversacks valued $10,000, one carton ofPallMallcigarettesvalued $6000, and a quantity of DigicelandGTTphonecards valued $100,000, total valued being $661,000. It is also alleged that Sylvain robbed Shantie Mohan, a staff of the said supermarket of a Samsung cell phone valuedat$75,000.

Additionally, another charge stated that on

T h e p r o s e c u t o r highlighted to the court that both victims were in the process of conducting business,thatistosaySimon was at the business place of Gopaul,whoisagoldsmith. As Simon took his gold jewelry to be examined and cleaned by Gopaul, both of them were held at gun-point by Sylvain and another male relieved them of their valuables The duo then made good their escape on a motorcycle.

To this end, on February 28, 2024, at about 09:00hrs, ranks of the Criminal Investigation Department's special patrol, received certain information about a male who was suspected to be involved in a series of RUA,andwashidingoutina house at Lot 14 Melanie, ECD.

Ranks then went to the said location, where Sylvain was found Upon his apprehension, Sylvain was shown the video footage, which showed him committing the act. He was told of the allegation leveled against him, to which he admitted.

A gold chain with the name'Gabby'andaSamsung cell phone were recovered, and identified as Simon's property

Thereafter Sylvain was escorted to the Cove and JohnPolicestation,wherehe wasplacedincustody

During the court proceedings, Sylvain pleaded with the court to be lenient with him. He listed several factors why he committedtheacts.Hesaidit was bad influence; not finding a job; the need of moneyandheclaimedhewas notintherightstateofmind.

Considering the accused's statements, Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus requested a probation report and that the accused receive psychiatrichelp.

The case was then adjournedtoMarch15,2024 forreportsandsentencing.

Convict: Matthew Sylvain

A screenshot from a Close Circuit Television (CCTV) footage capturing the robbery at the Chinese restaurant (red jersey: Matthew Sylvain)

New Police headquarters at Eve Leary estimated to cost $1.4B

Having been allocated $44.8

billionfromthisyear'sbudget, the Ministry of Home Affairs is preparing to spend approximately $1.4 billion of its allocation to construct a new headquarters admin building for the Guyana Police Force (GPF) at Eve Leary, Georgetown.

This was revealed at the opening of tenders on Tuesday at the National Procurement and Tender Administration

Board (NPTAB) office. At the opening, it was disclosedthat15contractorshaveappliedforthe contractallofwhomsubmittedbidshigherthan

$1,439,031,474.

Kaieteur News understands that the new headquarters building will be a modern fivestoreystructure.

Belowarethecompaniesandtheirbids: Construction of a five-storey Headquarter AdminBuilding,GPF-EveLeary

LEGAL NOTICE 3

Hearing date be and is hereby extended to Wednesday the 27th day of March, 2024 at 9:15 am before the Honourable Madam Justice

Damone Younge via Zoom Meeting ID: 845 1426 6584 and Password: 786 445. AND IT IS

FURTHER ORDERED that if the Petitioner is still not in a position to proceed on the next Directions Hearing date then this Petition shall be dismissed.

BY THE COURT

LEGAL NOTICE 4

IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE OF GUYANA COMMERCIAL

JURISDICTION

2023- HC- DEM- CIV- SOC284 BETWEEN:

1.PRADEEP RAMOUTAR

2. ALEXIS ANDREA PIO Applicants/Claimants -and--

RK CONCRETE GUYANA

INC., a Company incorporated in accordance with the Laws of Guyana with its registered office located at Unit 5, 116 North East Public Road, Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, Guyana Respondent/Defendant Notice

TO: RK Concrete Guyana Inc Unit 5, 116 North East Public Road Golden Grove East Bank Demerara, Guyana

TAKE NOTICE that a Fixed Date Application was filed on the 9"November, 2023 in the High Court of the Supreme Court of Judicature of Guyana at Georgetown, Demerara by PRADEEP RAMOUTAR and ALEXIS ANDREA PIO in which the Applicants claim for:

LEGAL NOTICE 4

a. Damages for breach of contract in excess of $4,000,000 (four million dollars).

b. Special damages in the sum of$2,040,000 (two million and forty thousand dollars).

c. Special damages in the sum of $4,000,000 (four million dollars) for employing a new contractor for the completion of the house.

d. Exemplary and or aggravated damages in excess of $1,000,000 ( one million dollars).

e. Interest pursuant to the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Chapter 6:02.

f. Any other relief that the court deems fit in the circumstances.

g. Costs.

UPON APPLICATION in person or by letter to Mr. Donavon Rangiah Attorney-at-Law for the Applicant whose address for service and place of business is at Lot 156 Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, copies of the Fixed Date Application, filed herein, will be Delivered or sent to you.

AND TAKE NOTICE if you desire to defend this action you must forthwith within 35 days after the second and final publication of this notice, prepare an Affidavit in Defence in Form 10C prescribed in the Civil Procedure Rules 2016, serve it on the applicant’s attorney-atlaw, to Mr. Donavon Rangiah whose address for service and place of business is at Lot 156 Charlotte Street, Lacytown, Georgetown, and file it with proof of service at the Registry at Georgetown, Demerara, not later than 4 days before the date fixed for hearing of the application, and you or your attorney-at-law must appear at the hearing.

AND FURTHER TAKE

NOTICE that if you fail to file such affidavit and or if you fail to appear at the hearing, final judgment may be given against you notwithstanding your absence.

LEGAL NOTICE 4

LEGAL NOTICE 5

Filing Attorney: Ms. MICHELLE MATTHIAS GUY ANA LEGAL AID

CLINIC 185 Charlotte & King Streets “Maraj Building” Georgetown, Guyana. Tel: 225-9246/ 225923

legalaid@networksgy.com2024HC-DEM-CIV-FD-166 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY

DIVISION Petition No. FD166 BETWEEN: (BARKER)

ODESSA FINE nee SMITH

PetitionerApplicant Respondent-VS-(BARKER)

CARL ANTHONY TO: CARLANTHONYBARKER

Last Known Address was at Kuru Kuru, Soesdyke, Linden Highway. TAKE

NOTICE that on the 2nd day of February, 2024 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by ODESSA FINE BARKER

nee SMITH the Petitioner in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara.

AND FURTHER TAKE

NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 8th day of February, 2024, the Petitioner was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of the Guyana Kaieteur Newspaper, a daily newspaper, printed, published and circulated in Guyana. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorney-at-Law at the Registry of Family Divisionof the High Court at Georgetown Demerara Where you will be issued with a certified copy of the petition together with related document’s

Kenya and Haiti sign agreements to try and salvage plan to deploy Kenyan police to battle gangs

NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Kenya and Haiti signed agreements Friday to try to salvage a plan for the African country to deploy 1,000 police officers to the troubled Caribbean nation to help

LEGAL NOTICE 4

AND FURTHER TAKE

NOTICE that if you desire to defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, y an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 35 (thirtyfive) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice.

TAKE NOTICE that the divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on , Wednesday the 24111 day of April, 2024 at 10:00 am before the Honourable Madam Justice

DamoneYounge via Zoom Meeting ID: 845 1426 6584 and

Password: 786 445IN

DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce. The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the registry is closed.

Dated the 13th day of February,2024

police to Haiti

Kenyan opposition politician Ekuru Aukot, who filed the High Court petition against the deployment, said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, that Henry has no constitutional or legal powers to commit Haiti to any agreements with Kenya.

In a public lecture at the United States International University in Kenya on Friday, Henry said elections in his country need to be held as soon as possible to bring stability.

“We need elections in order to stabilize the country. We need democratic governance in order to have people to come and invest in Haiti,” he said.

combat gang violence that has surged to unprecedented levels. Kenya agreed in October to lead a U.N.-authorized international police force to Haiti, but the Kenyan High Court in January ruled the plan unconstitutional, in part because of a lack of reciprocal agreements between the two countries. Kenya’s President William Ruto said in a statement that he and Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry witnessed the signing of the reciprocal agreements between the two countries on Friday. It was not immediately clear how, or if, the agreements could circumvent the court’s ruling, which also said that Kenya’s National Police Service cannot be deployed outside the country.

Haitian police spokesman says new gang attacks overwhelmed officers: ‘The city center was at war’

Haitian prime minister in Kenya to try to salvage African country’s deployment of

Henry has repeatedly pledged to hold elections since being sworn in as prime minister and interim president after the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. But he and other officials say gang violence has not allowed them to move forward on those promises.

Caribbean leaders said late Wednesday that Henry has agreed to hold general elections by mid-2025.

Henry shrugged when asked if it was safe for him to return home from Kenya following a surge of gang violence in Haiti’s capital Port au Prince on Thursday.

Gunmen shot at Haiti’s main international airport and other targets, including police stations, in a wave of violence that caught many people by surprise. Separately, at least four police officers, including two women, were killed in an attack on a station near the community of Canaan, according to a police union.

Qatari Investors to pay G$2B...

From page 8 have the matter dealt with.

Several Peoples Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Councillors sought to block any discussion surrounding the ownership at the statutory meeting given that it was not placed on the meeting’s agenda.

The Councillors, who were opposed to having the matter discussed at the meeting, reminded Mentore that there was no proper basis for matter to be discussed.

The Council nevertheless moved a motion to have the matter discussed. The City Council agreed that a letter should be sent to President Irfaan Ali in an effort to resolve the current dispute over the ownership, and usage of the land that has been earmarked for the US$300M Qatari Hotel on Carifesta Avenue.

“Nothing was provided to us on this issue. So, I see the

fence is being done, and the sod has been turned, and a whole host of other things. The project document has to start with the Council.

“We must have one rule for everyone. There must be one rule for the citizens of this city, and there must be one rule for central government, and there will be one rule for investors, who want to invest in Guyana. We must not break the rules or bend it to suit anyone,” Mentore explained.

He noted that the land which was being used by the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) was a gift to the City of Georgetown for recreational purposes by former plantation owners in 1887.

“If there is no clarity or no success in the hopeful discussions with his Excellency, and maybe other government people on this matter, the council is prepared to take litigation in this matter,” Mayor Mentore said.

Haiti’s Prime Minister A riel Henry gives a public lecture at the United States International University (USIU) in Nairobi, Kenya, Friday.

Australia 13-2 as New Zealand strikes back late on Day 2 of the 1st cricket test

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — The almost comical run out of Kane Williamson for a second-ball duck was one of many setbacks suffered by New Zealand on the second day of the first test yesterday as it fell 217 runs behind Australia.

That was until the very end of the day when Australia batted for a second time after passing up the chance to make New Zealand follow on.

Tim Southee dismissed Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne to have Austra-

lia 13-2 in its second innings after it had led by 204 on the first. At stumps Usman Khawaja was 5 not out and nightwatchman Nathan Lyon was 6 not out. Lyon was dropped at slip by Tim Southee off the last ball of the day.

Smith was out for a duck to the third ball of the innings, bowled by Southee, and Labuschagne fell to Southee in the fifth over for 2. After falling for 1 in the first innings, it was Labuschagne’s lowest aggregate score in a test in his career. They were the 12th and 13th wickets to

fall in the day which mostly had not gone New Zealand’s way. First, New Zealand needed more than a full session to claim one wicket and end Australia’s first innings. In that time Cameron Green and Josh Hazlewood put on 116 runs to increase Australia’s total from 279-9 after the first day to 383. Green finished 174 not out.

Then New Zealand lost three wickets at 12 and two at 29, was 29-5 before Glenn Phillips’ half century from 41 balls slowed its steady downhill slide.

New Zealand eventually

was all out for 179 in 43.1 overs, a deficit of 204. Phillips made 71 and Matt Henry 42. “Obviously the way Cam Green played with Hazlewood, they put on a massive partnership and that wasn’t exactly ideal for us wanting to wrap up the tail,” Phillips said. “At the end that’s what test cricket is about.”

New Zealand always will be able to look back and pinpoint where this match began to get away from it. It started on the second day when Australia was 89-4 and Mitch Marsh made a fast 40 in a 67run fifth-wicket partnership which seemed to energize Cameron Green.

Saturday March 02, 2024

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

This is an excellent day for you, Aries. The farther you extend your emotions, the more prosperous you will be. Don't be afraid of new things. More than likely.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

It may seem like people aren't taking things as seriously as you'd like them to, Taurus. If so, take it as a hint that perhaps you're the one who needs to lighten up.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

Don't turn down any opportunities today, Gemini, even if they seem like dead-ends at first. One could be your lucky break. Realize that success doesn't always have a big neon sign pointing you in the right direction.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

It's time to put your plans in motion, Cancer. There's a very expansive energy urging you to reach out and make valuable connections with others.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

Go for the gold, Leo. Don't settle for less. There's an expansive energy on your side urging you on to prosperity in every aspect of your life. Take control of the situation and act on your emotions.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22)

The more you vacillate, the more valuable time and energy you waste, Virgo. Take a decisive stance and be confident about your choice. Give it everything you've got.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

Arguments could quickly turn into declarations of war today. Things could get blown out of proportion if they aren't handled with care, Libra.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

Your life is taking off in many different directions, Scorpio. Everything seems to be expanding at once. It may be difficult to get a solid grip on any one thing.

SAGIT (Nov.22–Dec.21)

This is a great day for you, Sagittarius. There's a terrific feeling of expansion in the air. This is one of those times in which a small germ of an idea can grow into something big right before your eyes.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)

You may feel like someone caught in a tornado, Capricorn. Things are whirling around you and everything seems out of control. Don't get stressed out.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

It's time to take charge, Aquarius. There's fuel for your fire, and the scope of your influence is virtually unlimited. Don't hold back in any way. Confidently attack every project knowing that things will work out in your favor.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

Don't concern yourself with getting more. Concentrate on what you already have, Pisces. Work with whatever resonates within you. You instinctively know what does and doesn't work.

Green went on to reach his century in the last over of the first day and was able to form an heroic last-wicket partnership with Hazlewood which frustrated New Zealand for all of the first session and an additional 20 minutes before Hazlewood fell for 22.

This test match is the first in eight years between New Zealand and Australia in New Zealand, has been much anticipated and this match at the Basin Reserve is sold out on all five days.

Watching Australia go from 267-9 on day one when the match was about even to 383 when Australia was totally in charge left fans dispirited.

Tom Latham fell for 5 when New Zealand was 12, changing his decision to leave a ball from Mitchell Starc too late and directing the ball back onto his stumps.

Then disaster. Williamson played a ball from Starc back past the bowler. Will Young at the non-striker’s end turned to watch the ball, then looked up to see Williamson had set off for a run.

Young turned to see the ball heading straight to mid off and looked again to see Williamson bearing down on him on a collision course.

As Young swerved to his left, Williamson dodged to his right and the pair collided in mid-pitch as Starc tried to take evasive action.

Williamson was stranded as Marnus Labuschagne’s throw hit the stumps directly at the non-striker’s end.

Williamson walked off without looking back. New Zealand had lost two wickets in two balls and that became three in five when Rachin Ravindra drove too freely too early in his innings and sliced the ball directly to Nathan Lyon at point.

Australia’s Steve Smith is bowled by New Zealand’s Tim Southee on the second day of their cricket test match in Wellington, New Zealand, Friday March 1, 2024. (Andrew Cornaga/Photosport via AP)

Annual Survival Golf Tournament Tees off this Weekend at the LGC

Calling all golfers, the highly anticipated annual Survival Golf tournament returns this weekend, promising two days of

thrilling competition on March 2nd and 3rd. Players have the unique opportunity tochoosetheirpreferredday of play, ensuring maximum

participationandflexibility Hosted at the Lusignan Golf Club, the tournament willfeatureMedalplayover 18 holes, with competitors

divided into two flights basedonhandicap:0-13and 14-28 A plethora of prestigious prizes awaits, including:

% 1st Place Trophy (OverallBestNetWinner)

%1stPlaceTrophy(0-13 Handicap)

% 1st Place Trophy (1428Handicap)

%LongestDriveTrophy

%NearesttoPinTrophy

%ConsolationPrizesfor 2nd to 4th place in each flight Tee times are set for

8:00am sharp on both Saturday and Sunday, ensuringanearlystarttothe excitement. In adherence to Covid-19 safety protocols, allparticipantsarereminded to observe necessary practices throughout the event.

Players are kindly advised to connect with the club’smanageronthedayof the tournament to collect scorecards, settle tournament fees, and proceedtotheirallocatedtee

boxes promptly for the 8:00amtee-off.

The prize giving ceremony is scheduled for 1:30pm on Sunday, where champions will be celebrated and accolades presented.

Don’t miss out on this electrifying golfing extravaganza Join the Lusignan Golf Club for a weekend of camaraderie, c o m p e t i t i o n , a n d celebration! A release from theclubinformed.

Blake impresses as Caribbean athletes suffer mixed fortunes at World Indoor Championships in Glasgow

SportsMax - Caribbean athletes experiencedamixofsuccessandchallenges on the opening day of the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow, Scotlandyesterday

Jamaican sprinter Ackeem Blake showcased his speed in the 60-metre dash, winninghisheatin6.55.Althoughhestands as the third-fastest in the world this year at 6.45, Blake is fifth-fastest heading into the semi-finals. Notably, gold-medal favorite ChristianColemandominatedtheheatswitha remarkable run of 649 Mario Burke of Barbados is also through to the semi-final roundafterhefinishedsecondtoColemanin

658 AlsothroughisRikkoiBrathwaiteofthe British Virgin Islands, who ran a season-best

662 for fourth-place in Coleman’s heat Coleman’scompatriot,NoahLyles,whoisalso incontentionforthegoldmedalwonhisheatin

657 The60msemi-finalsandfinalswereset for later yesterday Rusheen McDonald, also from Jamaica, delivered a lifetime best performance in the 400m, clocking an impressive46.25.Hefinishedsecondinhis heat behind the Czech Republic’s Matej Krsek(46.07),securinghisplaceinthenext round. Trinidad and Tobago’s defending champion Jereem Richards faced a close callinthe400m,finishingfourthinhisheat with a time of 47.04. However, Richards

securedaspotinthenextroundaheadofthe USA’s Jacory Patterson, credited with a similartime.Inthewomen’sevents,StaceyAnnWilliamsfromJamaicaadvancedinthe 400m,clocking52.16.Williamsenteredthe competitionwithaseasonbestof51.86and secured a spot as one of the fastest losers after finishing fourth in her heat, won by Netherlands’LiekeLaverin51.31.

Despite these successes, the challenges were evident Charokee Young faced disappointmentinthe400m,finishingthird in her heat with a time of 53.06. Shalysa Wray of the Cayman Islands and Yanique Haye-Smith of the Turks and Caicos producedseason-bestperformancesbutwill takenofurtherpartinthecompetition.Inthe 800m, Natoya Goule Toppin advanced to the semi-final round with a second-place finish in her heat, clocking 2:00.83. She opened her season in a competitive field, withEthiopia’sHabitamAlemuwinningthe heat in 2:00.50. In the shot put final, DanielleThomasDoddthrewaseason-best 19.12m,earningsixthplace.Canada’sSarah Mitton claimed gold with a throw of 20.22m, followed by Germany’s Yemisi Ogunleyewithalifetimebestof20.19mfor thesilvermedal.TheUSA’sChaseJackson (nee’Ealey)securedthebronzewithathrow of19.67m.

LGC Vice President Brian Hackett President receives the sponsorship cheque from a Survival representative alongside LGC President Patanjilee Persaud.

Cuba, Antigua and Barbuda, Suriname remain in hunt for top spots at U-20 qualifiers

SportsMax - Spanishspeak Caribbean nation Cuba joined Central Americans El Salvador and Guatemala on the verge of progression to the Concacaf Men’s Championships following their latest victories in their respective qualifying campaigns on Thursday

GroupA

of the campaign when they edged Turks and Caicos Islands 2-1, at the ABFA TechnicalCentreinPiggots, AntiguaandBarbuda.

withElSalvadorinatop-ofthe-table clash, while Suriname will have the easiertaskagainstTurksand CaicosIslands.

failedcampaign. Barbados’s goals came from Xavier Webster (1st),

Ethan Taylor (77th) and Khalil Vanderpool Nurse (80th, 90+1), while Jaheem

Joe (42nd) and a Warren Trotman own goal (72nd) gotStMartin’sgoals.

CubaedgedBelize1-0at the Estadio Nacional in Managua, courtesy of Aniel Casanova 12th-minute strike,topulllevelwithhost nation Nicaragua on nine pointsatthetopofthegroup.

Ezekial Rowland’s brace (32nd,55th)wasenoughtoget the job done for the Golden Jaguars, while Emmanuel Martin (90th) got on the scoresheetforTurksandCaicos Islands Both teams are out of contention where topping the groupisconcerned The feature contest of the dayendedwithamassivethree points for El Salvador, who blanked Suriname, 3-0

Victory for Suriname couldpropelthemtothetop, but only if the Antigua and Barbuda clash with El Salvador,endinastalemate.

GroupC

Host nation Guatemala assumed pole position in the groupwithninepoints,after a 4-0 win overAruba, at the Estadio Doroteo Guamuch FloresinGuatemalaCity

RudyMunoz(8th),Daniel

The other contest on the day saw British Virgin Islands (BVI) register their second win in a 3-1 beating of Anguilla Azarni Callwood (18th, 23rd, 89th) scored all three goals for BVI, while Jared Smeins (28th), pulled one back for Anguilla.

Group B Guyana registered their first victory

Christopher Argueta (17th), Nestor Delgado (24th) and Kiano Casamalhuapa (66th) did the damage for El Salvador, who now sit atop the group on seven points, one point ahead of Antigua and Barbuda and Suriname, on six points each. This makes things interesting headingintoSaturday’sfinal round of games, as Antigua andBarbudawilllockhorns

Mendez (24th, 37th), Matthew Evans (45th) and AxelDeLaCruz(85th)gave the home crowd much to cheerabout.

Guatemala are now two pointsaheadofCuracao, with both set to meet in the decisivecontesttoday

Meanwhile, Barbados registered a morale-boosting 4-2 win over St Martin to takesomepositivefromtheir

Mayers named man of the match as Fortune Barishal secures maiden BPL title with six-wicket win over Comilla Victorians

SportsMax-WestIndian all-rounder Kyle Mayers producedamanofthematch performancetohelpFortune Barishal secure their first BangladeshPremierLeague title with a six-wicket win over Comilla Victorians in the final at the Shere-eBangla Stadium in Mirpur yesterday.

The Victorians, who entered yesterday’s game seeking their third BPLtitle in a row and fifth overall, made 154-6 from their 20 oversafterbeingputintobat

by Barishal. Mahidul

Islam

Ankonwasthetopscorerfor Comilla with a measured 35-ball 38 while Andre Russell provided some lowerorderexcitementwith 27 off 14 balls including foursixes.

James Fuller was expensive in his four overs, going for 43 while picking upapairofwickets.

Mayers and Obed

McCoy were both economical on the day with figures of 1-26 and 1-24 f r o m f o u r o v e r s ,

respectively

Barishal then needed only19overstoreach157-4 andsecuretheirmaidenhold onthetitle.

Mayerscompletedafine all-round display with a top score of 46 off 30 balls includingfivefoursandtwo sixes.

Captain Tamim Iqbal, who was named the player of the tournament, made 39 off 26 balls including three fours and as many sixes at t h e t o p o f t h e order.Victorians.

Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association members to sponsor Demerara Cricket Board Inter Association U19 championship

Members of the G u y a n a Floodlight Softball CricketAssociation (GFSCA) will once again sponsor the DCB Inter Association Under19 Cricket Tournament which willcommenceshortly GFSCA is known for

- Trophy Stall delivers on promise

pioneeringsoftballcricketin Guyana and overseas The tournament will involve the five associations, Upper Demerara, East Bank, East Coast, West Demerara and Georgetown and played on a round robin format with the top two teams qualifying for thefinal Thefinalwillbelive

streamedacrosstheglobe.It is the main yardstick to be usedbytheselectionpanelto selecttheDemerarateamfor the GCB Inter County Under19Tournament.

The tournament will be b r a n d e d T r o p h y Stall/Ramchand’s Auto Spares/Ariel Enterprise/Rohan

r Trend/Cricket Equipment

Marines/Terry Mathura and RajMathura.

Trophy Stall, with its Head Office located at Bourda Market and several

branchesaroundGuyanahas provided all trophies and medals to be used as incentives for the tournament.

The trophies and medals wererecentlyhandedoverto theDCB.

Ramesh Sunich, owner and Managing Director

indicated that he is impressed with the work of the board and is happy to be given the opportunity to be part of this significant tournament.

The DCB takes this opportunitytosaythankyou to all the sponsors for comingonboard.

July, Rogers, Sampson and Surinamese Sadhoe shine Surinamese at GBA Developmental tourney

The Guyana Boxing Association(GBA)wrapped u p i t s s e c o n d Developmental Boxing Championship on Thursday at the National Gymnasium with Ryan Rogers, Tiquan Sampson,DwayneJuly,and SurinameseDonn-GSadhoe emerging as standout champions in the Junior’s 51-53kg, Youth 64-67kg, heavyweight 87-92kg, and Schoolboy’s 43-45kg weightclasses,respectively

Thefinalnightwasareal showdown, especially for Ryan Rogers from the ForgottenYouthFoundation (FYF). Rogers threw down intheJunior’s51-53kgfinal against Issac Ruiz from the PaceandPowerboxinggym toclinchedthevictory

Tiquan Sampson, another FYF boxer, showed realdominanceintheYouth division, taking home the gold against Shemrock Wintz from the New Amsterdam Boxing Academy (NABA) Sampson bulldozed his way to the top, winning all three roundsofthecontest.

Dwayne July from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Boxing gym gave us anelectrifyingperformance, locking horns with

Surinamese Richard Averd intheheavyweightdivision. It was a nail-biter, but July secured the heavyweight title, landing some solid punches and taking control inthefinalround;evenutally winning the contest on points.

Suriname’s young gun, Donn-G Sadhoe, aged 13, was the star in the Schoolboy’s 43-45kg division. He not only won against Joshua Lewis but also displayed a brutal performance against Jaden Fileen in the final. Sadhoe had Fileen on two 8-count stands within the first minute, and Fileen had to bowoutduetoamildstress injury from a head blow Sadhoe claimed victory just twominutesintothefight.

Other notable winners from the two-night event included Drewshawn

Willery and Izah Daniels from Pace and Power

Boxing Gym, Ronaldo Hunte from the Police (Pol) Boxing Gym, and many more.TheElitedivisionsaw impressive wins, with Dexter Wray (Pol), Julian Clarke (GDF) , Septon Barton (FYF), Emmanuel Sancho(Pol),ShaquileDaw (GDF), and Aluko Bess (DGF) taking home gold in their respective weight classes.

On the heavier side, Zidhan Wray of GDF defeated his gym mateTroy Glasgow to the Super heavyweight title, while EmmanuelPompeystolethe show in the International heavyweight matchup, out boxing, outmaneuvering, and outfighting Leandro DongoofSurinametoclaim victory on points at the end ofthethirdandfinalround.

Meanwhile Ryan Rogers, Tiquan Sampson, D w a y n e J u l y a n d SurinameseDonn-GSadhoe won the Best Boxer awards in the Junior, Youth, Elite H e a v y w e i g h t a n d Schoolboy’s divisions, respectively

New Amsterdam Boxing Gym gets gear

had its baptism (participated with four boxers) when the GBA hosted

Emmanuel Pompey celebrates after winning this Heavyweight (international) final against Suriname’s Leandro Dongo on Thursday evening.

New Amsterdam Boxing Gym gets gear - Ninvalle hands over the equipment to NABG head coach and former national champion Jeff Roberts (left). National coach Lennox Daniels is at right.

July, Rogers, Sampson and Surinamese Sadhoe shine at GBA Developmental tourney

Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association members to sponsor Demerara Cricket Board Inter Association under19 championship

Ramesh Sunich, owner and Managing Director of Trophy Stall with some of the trophies that will be on offer.

Pompey landing a solid right on Leandro Dongo during the Heavyweight 92+kg Final

Surinamese Donn-G Sadhoe (left) and FYF’s Ryan Rogers share photo at the National Gymnasium after receiving their Best Boxer trophies.