Man shot after pulling gun on cops
$13.6M already paid by Guyana for arbitration with Gas-to-Energy contractor -PrimeMinister
‘Not everyone will get cash grant before Christmas, it might come in good for New Year’ – Jagdeo
Budget 2024 increases to $1.271 trillion as Parliament approves $84.5B
more for spending
Vice President (VP) and ChiefPolicymakerintheoil and gas sector, Bharrat
Jagdeo on Thursday maintainedhisgovernment's position that windfall taxes will not be instituted at this time.
Windfall tax is a tax levied by governments against certain industries when economic conditions allow those industries to experienceaboveaverageor projectedprofits.
Jagdeo, in response to a question posed by Kaieteur
N e w s o n w h y t h e
government is not implementingwindfalltaxes since it does not breach the existing Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with ExxonMobil and its partners, Jagdeo said, “I have dealt with windfall profits in the past, and why we believe that windfall taxation should not be pursued at this time. I dealt with it in the past, if you go backandread.”
In May 2022, Kaieteur News questioned the Vice Presidentontheissueandat that time he admitted that citizens in Canada, and the United States had forced their governments to increase their royalties charged to oil operators. In the United Kingdom, the government increased the one-off tax slapped on oil companies.
At that time, this publication reported extensively on the changes in the fiscal regimes for the oil operators in those countries Canada had moved its royalty charged between five and 40%, the US in December of 2021 raised its royalty rate higher than the 18.75% it had been receiving while the UK slappedaone-off25percent tax on the oil companies there.
Jagdeo had told the media that the windfall tax that some countries are exploring only came after intense pressure from their
populations However, he explainedwhytheinstitution of the tax could not be replicated in Guyana. “We are bound by a PSA (Production Sharing Agreement) with very specific terms on the taxation side.” To this end, he suggested “if you change the taxation here, it's considered a breach of the contract.”
Seeking to draw a distinction between Guyana and the ABC countries, Jagdeosuggestedthattheoil companies would have been operating for decades in those jurisdictions and as suchwouldhavecomeunder the standard tax regime for the respective countries withinwhichtheyoperate.
According to the Vice President, under such a situation the parliaments of thosecountriescouldbyway oflegislationeasilymakethe changes to institute for example a windfall tax. He was adamant, this is the key reason the same cannot be done in Guyana if the administrationdidinfactgo ahead and make the legislativechanges;itwould beconsideredabreachofthe contract and “we would run afouloftheagreement.”
Notwithstanding, the occurrences in other oil producing countries, Jagdeo remains firm in his stance that going after windfall taxes will affect the sanctity of the contract, despite industry experts sharing a different opinion Trinidadian Energy Expert a n d I n t e r n a t i o n a l Consultant, Anthony Paul
recently shared his perspective with Kaieteur News.
Paul'sviewisthat“Since all contracts must abide by national law and since such an instrument does not violate existing contracts, Windfall Profits Taxes provide a simple and fair mechanism to ensure that countriesgettheirjustdues.”
In a November 24, 2024
article, Paul made the point that oil companies do not produceoil;naturedoes.The role of the oil companies is simply to extract the resource.
Paul explained, “Nature blesses countries with it. Once the oil company removesit,thatassetisgone forever For this reason, countries should realise that they are not just innocent bystanders to the business ventureofoilandgas.”
In fact, the Energy Expert described the role of countries as “active contributors,” providing their natural heritage as an assetinthebusiness.This,he noted, makes countries coinvestors with a contractor, so that both can make money
“An investor who brings money wants to make profit
inproportiontotheamountit invests. Similarly, countries should make a return on the investment of their asset, proportional to the value of that asset,” the International Consultantpointedout.
He was keen to note that Stabilisation clauses in contracts are based on an agreed economic model whichcontemplatesarateof return to the contractor, basedonaprojectedpriceor pricing formula for the commodity on an agreed market.
However,Paulexplained that when the price of the commodityisfarhigherthan the projected price in the economic model, the extra profit is referred to as a windfall. To this end, he noted, “Since the market conditions are generally beyond the control of the
producer,itisthecommodity itself that creates the higher revenue, not any action of thecontractor.”
It has therefore become customary in jurisdictions around the world, including developed countries, to introduce a Windfall Profits Taxtoensurethattheowner of the resource gets a bigger share of the profit, in line with the disproportionate contribution the resource makes to the increased revenue, the Energy Expert said.
Further, “Since all contracts must abide by national law and since such an instrument does not violate existing contracts, Windfall Profits Taxes provide a simple and fair mechanism to ensure that countriesgettheirjustdues,” Paulnoted.
Heexplainedthatwhilea law may be necessary, it is far from sufficient, adding that Guyana can learn a lot from its neighbour in TrinidadandTobago,where, despite excellent legacy policy and legal provisions, poor implementation means thatthetwinislandhasbeen losing billions of dollars each year for more than two decades.
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EDITORIAL
Get a boat, get it going, get it done. Get light to the people plagued by a rolling tide of blackouts. No citizens who have felt the brunt of power outages would find fault withsuchenergyfromthePPPCGovernment. Thedriveto get a powerboat to supply electricity to Guyanese is commendable. Butdidthepowerboathavetobefilledwith so many holes in its procurement, with revelations coming and the questions that are now taking shape? This now developing Turkish powerboat issue is less about who is responsible, and how could this have been allowed to slip throughthecracks. Itisallaboutwhythesemattersrelated toprocurementofanythinginGuyanahappensooftenand sobrazenly.
Guyanese long for a steady supply of electricity desperately to ease their anxieties, to reduce their woes, losses. Expensiveitemslostthroughspoilage,workhours andpreciousstudyhoursgoneandnotcomingback. When the PPPC Government first contracted with Karpowership ofTurkey,thehopewasthatthelightswouldcomeonandthat anycontroversywouldbeonthe‘off’switch Whateverhope therewasthatKarpowership,obtainedthroughUCCHoldings, would be only about electricity and nothing that resembles controversyisnowdashed InSouthAfrica,inLebanon,andin Pakistan, disputes have dogged the company’s way of doing business Allegationsofbriberyhavebeenleveled,courtcases areontherecord,andsoarethefinesleviedagainstKaradeniz, the parent company of Karpowership How could all of this been missed by Government of Guyana officials tasked with identifyingareputableandcapablesourceofpowerforenergystarvedGuyanese? Couldthisbeviewedasacaseofsimple negligence,withpeopleactingirresponsiblyundertherushof circumstances? Orwasitmorethat,givenitsrecordthatisnow comingtolight,Karpowership(theKaradenizparent)wasthe kind of power company with which PPPC Government officialswereonlytoopleasedtosealadeal? Focusingon itsrecord,thiscouldbeacaseofwillfulblindness,withthe usual political corruption that haunts Guyana having an openfieldinwhichtooperate. Thegrimrealitycouldbethat while Guyanese were being battered by blackouts, the regular wheeling and dealing was in motion. Again, it is baffling that the due diligence done on KaradenizKarpowershipturnedupacleanpage.
According to renowned economist and Working People’s Alliance co-leader, Dr Clive Thomas, the group’s research revealed that “the company has one of the most distasteful reputationsforanenergycompanyintheworld Notonlybythe typeoffuelthatituses,tocauseenvironmentalhazardsbutby the behaviour of the ownership, management and so forth” Thatisenoughtogivepausetoanysensiblegovernmentofficial in the hunt for a trusted energy supplier Dr Thomas then pointedtowhatshouldhaveledtotheimmediatediscontinuing of any discussions with Karadeniz-Karpowership: “Every perceivable crime that a multinational can commit they have been accused of and we have a paper which we can make availabletoanyofthepeoplewhomightwanttohaveitinthe audiencewhoarerepresentingthemediatoday,wheresomeof thesethingsareportrayed (sic)Ithas(a)significantamountof it” Considering government’s own reputation in the local environment,thisTurkishpowersupplygroupshouldhavebeen the last partner that it would engage in a contractual relationship.
Tobefrank,thiswholebusinessstirssomequestionsthat willnotbemetwithcalmbythePPPCGovernment. Whoin the government’s team knew about theTurkish company’s reputation? How much did they know about the raps hanging on its head? And when did they come by such knowledge? Thereputationofthecompanyissospeckled withproblematicissuesthatitisfairtoaskwhatelsecould have been involved in the signing of a contract with Karpowership. Was it a matter of casual recklessness, or wastherewhathadlotsofrogueryinhowthatcontractcame about? Itseemsthatshabbypracticesarenowsonormalin thePPPC’sgovernanceculturethatitjustdoesn’tcare.
DEAREDITOR
,
Thediversebeautyofour country, built on the foundation of six ethnic groups, necessitates deliberate efforts to foster unity, mutual respect, understanding, and shared p r o s p e r i t y I t i s disheartening to observe a patternofdivisiverhetoricin the public sph
e, particularly from some frequent contributors to the letters’ column These individuals,whileexercising their right to freedom of expression, often push narratives that deepen divisions and sow seeds of discordinacountrythathas already endured the scars of a colonial past marked by slavery, indentureship, and engineeredracialdivisions. While the right to freedom of speech is a cornerstoneofdemocracy,it mustbewieldedresponsibly Words have power, and thosewhohaveplatformsor frequent access to public discourse must use them constructively Mr Vishnu Bisram has the skill and reach through his pen to inspirechange.Icallonhim andotherstousetheirvoices tofosterunityandupholdthe aspirations of our national motto: One People, One Nation,OneDestiny Atthis juncture in our history, the responsibilityofeachcitizen is to contribute to forging a united Guyana, where all races and ethnicities feel a sense of belonging and togetherness.
Having mentioned the above, I am a firm believer
thatsportisamongthemost powerful tools to achieve thisunity
Throughout history, sports have been a force for good, breaking down barriers, creating equal opportunities, and promoting understanding among people of different races,religions,andpolitical affiliations.
The Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports must recognizethecriticalroleitcan play after four years in building racial harmony and fostering a sense of community. When I say “community,” I am not speaking about community ground enhancement, which seems to be the ministry’s flagshipproject.
I mean, the ministry shouldthinkbiggerandwider initsmandatetothepeopleof Guyana For example, by implementing programs and initiatives that bring together individuals of all backgrounds,theministrycan transformsportsintoavehicle for reconciliation and understanding Sportprovides a level playing field On the cricketpitch,footballfield,or athletics track, an athlete’s successisdeterminedbyskill, effort,anddedication,notrace, ethnicity,orbackground
This meritocracy challenges preconceived notions and prejudices Witnessing athletes from diverse backgrounds excel together can inspire respect, admiration, understanding, andempathy Sportsbecome a reminder that we are all more alike than different,
united by shared goals and thepursuitofexcellence.
Historically, sport has been an avenue for addressing racial injustice. From the triumphs of West Indies cricket in uniting Caribbean nations, to global icons like Muhammad Ali and Jackie Robinson using their platforms to confront racism, sports have long beenintertwinedwithsocial justice Our Guyanese athletes, too, can play a pivotal role in this journey, but they need structured opportunities to come together,compete,andlearn fromoneanother.
At the grassroots level, sportleaguesandprograms shouldbedesignedtobring together young people
from all races and communities This deliberate mixing can create lasting relationships and teach values such as teamwork, trust, and mutualrespect
After all, it is the youth who hold the greatest potential to break the chainsofdivisionthathave plagued our society Sport programscanprovidethem with not only physical fitness but also the tools to become ambassadors of unity
H o w e v e r , t h e responsibility for unity does not lie solely with the sports or athletes Each of usmustplayourrole This includes addressing racism and inequality through education, dialogue, and even legislation when necessary Athletes and
their platforms can spark conversations about these issues, but the public must engage in these dialogues with open minds and hearts It is also crucial for those who shape public opinion, such as Mr Bisram and others, to consider how their narratives influence our society Constructive dialogue, aimed at finding common ground and celebrating our shared identity as Guyanese, shouldbethegoal.
Imaginehowimpactfulit would be if Mr. Bisram, known for his frequent letters, were to articulate a vision for unity, one that recognizes our differences but emphasizes our shared humanity and aspirations as onepeople,onenation,anda shared destiny His words could inspire the very change we so desperately need for the good and prosperityofallourpeople.
Let us all commit and recommit to using our platforms, be it a pen, a microphone,oracricketbat, afootball,orontheathlete’s track,toadvancethecauseof nationalunity Ourcountry’s history is indeed marked by pain and division, but it is also a history of resilience, strength, and hope.Through responsible expression and theunifyingpowerofsports, we can take meaningful stepstowardtheidealofOne People, One Nation, One Destiny
Sincerely, H o n J e r m a i n e Figueira,MP
DEAREDITOR, Late last week His ExcellencythePresident,the Honorable Irfaan Ali, explained what was very probably going to be an extended process for the distribution of the $100,000 into one that was simple and straightforward, could easily befollowedbyanyadultwith commonsense. The government was in possession of an already defined set of recipients,
public servants and pensioners These he explained were easily verifiable and would receive
their$100,000beforetheend ofNovemberviapaymentto their bank accounts The governmentwouldthenwork through neighborhoods aroundthecountrytopickup and verify the rest of the population. Agreed.Nothing toargueabout.
Iwasbarelyabletocatch
Ashni Singh’s new declaration this Wednesday on disbursing the $100,000 grant, and reading it brought to mind a host of questions, thefirstofwhichis:IsAshni in a face-off with His ExcellencyMr IrfaanAli? Is he trying to overwrite
allthepresidentexplainedin injecting the onerous, lengthy and costly threestageepisodeofverifyingall citizens, even including public servants and pensioners already on the governmentpayroll,withthe added nuisance of taking pictures even as he admitted thatrecipientswillhavetheir national IDs scanned in his new process, verifying the information collected, and then cutting cheques for EVERYONE, including public servants and pensioners. Was Dr Singh peeved
thathewasbroughttotaskby the President at the 5;30 am meeting recently, and was trying to get one back on the president? Is he trying to jostle the President in public forleadership. Or does he really think that he can walk all over the President’sideas?
I am kindly asking PresidentIrfaanAlitostepin andtrytoclearupthemessof unnecessaryworkcreatedby Dr Singh to help Guyanese get their $100,000 grant soonerthanlater
YoursFaithfully, IratePensioner
, Guyana is rapidly positioningitselfasacritical player in global agriculture, thanks to the transformative investments championed by President Irfaan Ali and his administration.
The government in doing so has recognized
agricultural potential,
addressing food security challenges, bolstering
r
m
n g t h e agricultural sector to meet global standards as we are seeingtoday
One of Guyana’s primaryassetsisitsfertile land, particularly the expansive plains of the coastal region, which are ideal for producing rice, sugar, and a variety of othercrops
The government has madesignificantstridesin improving the productivity ofthisarableland.
For instance, efforts are being made to rehabilitate neglected infrastructure such as drainage and irrigation systems, as we know, billions have already been
invested and is crucial for mitigating the risks posed byclimatechange P r e s i d e n t A l i ’s administration has also placed significant emphasis on diversification, moving beyond traditional staples likericeandsugartoexplore high-value crops and aquaculture. Through partnerships w
reducetheregion’sannual food import bill by 25% by 2025, a huge step for the agricultural sector
This initiative aligns with
making Guyana a regional breadbasket
M
government is prioritizing
technology into farming practices
I n v e s t m
n t s i n precision agriculture,
d
ng techniques, and research institutions are aimed at boosting yield efficiency
while minimizing environmentalimpact
A notable example is the collaboration with
I
innovative rice varieties that are more resilient to
conditions and with the recent visit by Prime Minister Modi, we can o
collaboration between the two countries, this is forward thinking by the government
alongwiththeAgriculture M
Mustapha has also been
criticalforaddingvalueto raw products and creating jobs New processing facilities for products like cassava, fruits, and spices are being developed,
exports and fostering economicgrowth
With oil revenues providing the financial backing, these ambitious agricultural projects are w e l l
d e d a n d sustainable.
This foresight ensures thatGuyananotonlysecures its own food security but also becomesa key supplier in a world grappling with increasing demand for sustainable agricultural products.
Byleveragingitsnatural resources and strategic investments, Guyana under PresidentIrfaanAliispoised to redefine its agricultural legacy, making it an indispensable player in the globalfoodsupplychain.
Sincerely, AndrewHarrinarine
Impact of remedial Education programme on the lives of persons with disabilities
DEAREDITOR, We know that education is transformative, and necessary for the development of any society However, the impact of education on the lives of people with disabilities is even more profound. It ena
financially independent as adults.
When the Guyana CouncilofOrganisationsfor Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) approached the Ministry of Education to foster collaboration and support for its Remedial Education programme for adults with disabilities as a transition to our Caribbean Sec
C
ifica
(CSEC) programme, we were met with shared enthusiasm and a willing partner Under the guidance of Mr Ganesh Singhandwithsupportfrom Mr. Keon Cheong, the remedial education programme commenced
withatotaloftenadultswith physical, hearing, vision, and mild intellectual disabilities.
Of the first cohort of students,sevenpersonswere promoted to the Ministryfunded CSEC programme and are scheduled to sit the regional examination in May-June 2025 This initiative marks a second chance given to these personswithdisabilitieswho neverhadtheopportunityto complete their formal education.
With this remedial education programme, these persons are given the knowledgeandskillstogain meaningful employment, pursuehighereducation,and a c c e s s t h e m a n y opportunities provided by theGovernmentofGuyana.
We are certain of these long-termoutcomesbecause ourtracerreportoutlinesthe successes of the 80 persons whohavegraduatedfromthe
(Continuedonpage17)
TheUSEximBank has approved a loanforGuyana’s Gas-to-Energy project, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announcedonThursday
The Vice President was asked to provide an update on the progress of the loan.
“For a few weeks now, we had this information, but we wantedtheannouncementto come from Exim Bank, but since it has now been forthcoming, let me say to you that the loan has been approved.”
As of November 21, the approval was sent for a 30day approval to the Congress,afterwhichitwill return to the Exim Bank’s boardforthefinalapproval.
“So that is where we stand at this point in…in time,”Jagdeosaid.
When pressed further by the media, theVPexplained that though the original application was for $660M this will not be the sum received. “No, the amount will not be $660 million, it
will be less than that, and it will only cover the exports out of the United States of America. So, it would be upwards of $500 million, upwardsof500million.”
He added that the loan willbeprovidingretroactive financing, so if it is made available it will be covering financing that the government had to make sincethestartoftheproject.
On September 8, Kaieteur News reported that SeniorMinisterintheOffice of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service Dr Ashni Singh met and held discussions on Gas-toEnergy project with the Senior Advisor to the President and Chair, Mr Larry T Decker, and other seniorandtechnicalofficials of the Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of the United States (U.S.) in Washington DC According to a statement released by the Ministry of Finance, the meeting took place during
the Senior Minister’s fourdayvisittotheUS.
The EXIM Bank was at the time still considering approval of a loan to Guyana, valued at approximately US$646 million.Theloanismeantto support the Gas-to-Energy project. As a result, during
s surrounded the bank’s support towards the project, which, when completed, is expected to significantly reduce electricity costs, increasethecompetitiveness of other industries, and reduce the nation’s reliance onheavyfossilfuels.
Atthemeeting,Dr Singh expressedappreciationtothe Bank for its continued support to Guyana, and reiterated that the Government values greatly, its relationship with the Bank.Dr Singhmetandheld discussions with several other high-level officials as Guyana has been partnering in several areas such as economic growth, trade and
development including enhancedsecurity.
There has been a lot of talk surrounding the loan, in January of this year International Lawyer, MelindaJankihadwrittento the United States Export Import (US-EXIM) Bank
urging the financial institution to “respect the rule of law in Guyana” and withholdfundingforthegas plants to be built at Wales, WestBankDemerara.
Janki on behalf of public interest litigants Elizabeth Deane-Hughes and Vanda Radzik wrote to the Bank on January12,2024 Intheletter addressed to President and Chair of the Board of Directors, Reta Jo Lewis, the Lawyer pointed out that Guyana’s High Court on October 5, 2023, concluded that “…the decision by the EPA to grant the permit to EssoGuyanawascontraryto lawandwasimproper.”
Consequently, Janki said, “Eximbankshouldnotprovide fundingforanyprojectwhich is based on a decision (the grant of a permit) that is ‘contrary to law’ Eximbank shouldrespecttheruleoflaw inGuyana”
InJuneofthisyear,itwas reported by the Kaieteur News that more than 16,000 Americans had written to Chair of the United States Export-Import Bank (USEXIM), Reta Jo Lewis
demanding the financial institution not to fund the controversial Gas-to-Energy (GTE)projectbeingpursued by the Government of Guyana(GoG).
According to a letter from 16,452 members of Friends of the Earth United States, a non-governmental organization, the project is both a disaster for Guyana andtheclimate.
They said, “This project isbothadisasterforGuyana and the climate! The U.S. government should not be using taxpayer dollars to subsidize Exxon – a company that has recently reportedbillionsinprofits.”
The advocacy group in the missive issued late last month went on to point out that studies done indicate that the gas project is not necessary as solar panels could provide a cheaper alternate of power generation.Accordingtothe letter, “This fossil fuel projectinGuyanaisnoteven close to necessary Some analyses have shown that installingsolarpanelswould
meet the energy needs of Guyanesecommunities.
Moreover, it would cost lesstobuild,reducebillsfor ratepayers, generate local jobs, and fight the climate crisis.”
The letter also pointed out that “This project will help increase the world’s dependence on fossil fuels and make limiting global warmingto1.5°Cevenmore difficult.” and that “greedy c o m p a n i e s [ l i k e ] ExxonMobil will get even richer!” The activist group notedthattheletterwassent in solidarity with Guyanese citizens who are opposing the gas project on multiple grounds including the failure to carry out anenvironmental impact assessment for the gas plant; the lack of a business case; the lack of any financial information showing how spending billionsofUSdollarswould deliver ‘cheap’ electricity; the failure to comply with n
involvedwiththeproject
The National Assembly during the wee hours of ThursdaypassedaFinancial Paper for a Supplementary Provision of over $80B, increasing the 2024 Budget to$1.271trillion.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh had tabled two Financial Papers (Financial Papers Three and Four) in the House on November 25, 2025.
Financial Paper Number Three, which was approved on Wednesday afternoon, relates to advances from the Contingency Fund for the period 2024-11-07 to 20241 1 - 2 2 a n d t o t a l s $456,851,845 for current estimates while Financial
Paper Number Four (approved Thursday morning)soughtthesupport
of the House for a supplementary provision of $84,074,229,401 for the periodending2024-12-31.
The National Assembly resolved itself into the CommitteeofSupplyaround 14:30h on Wednesday afternoon to commence the
debate process for the additionalrevenuerequested by government Around 00:50h on Thursday, Financial Paper Number F
Opposition on the various initiatives to receive additionalfunding.
In a statement, the Ministry of Finance said among the key initiatives
rovided for were Government's $100,000 cash grant to persons 18 years and older and the transformational Gas-toEnergyproject.
To begin the rollout of the highly anticipated $100,000 cash grant initiative, which was announced by President IrfaanAliinOctoberlast,the N
mbly approved $30.5 billion so that resources would be provided for the initiative.
Dr. Singh, during a recent interview with the media said that the Government is focusedonensuringthatthis economicprosperityreaches allGuyanesecitizens.While providing details on the
electricityinGuyana. I n l i n e w i t h Government's 2020
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr.Ashni Singh during the debate on the financial papers
distribution process, he outlined that it will be done intwosteps.
Step One involves a registration process where a schedule for each area will beprovidedtoguidepersons to their registration centres along with the dates for registration. Persons are advised to visit their respective registration centreswithavalidNational Identification Card or Passport.
StepTwowillinvolvethe verification of the registration to ensure there arenoduplicationsalongthe way This initiative, when completed, will place $60 billion in the hands of citizensacrossthecountry
PrimeMinisterBrigadier (ret'd)MarkPhillipstoldthe Housethatifthereisneedfor additional resources to pay out the outstanding $100,000 cash grant to Guyanese citizens then governmentwouldapproach Parliament with another FinancialPaper.Meanwhile, anadditionalof$25.3billion was approved under the OfficeofthePrimeMinister to advance Government's GastoEnergyprojectwhich, when it comes on stream, is expected to result in a reductionofelectricitycosts by 50% countrywide. This project not only promises to significantly reduce energy costs but also to meet the growing demand for
Manifesto promise of delivering50,000houselots over the term, approval was also granted for $8.4 billion under the Ministry of Housing and Water to continuetheadministration's transformational and expansive housing schemes initiative, as well as its
programme.
Further, under the agriculture sector, $5 5 billion was approved for the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority to support the advancement of D&I works throughout the country and $4.5billion was approvedundertheMinistry of Health to advance construction of the six regional hospitals at Lima, De Kendren, Diamond, Enmore, Bath and No. 75 Village,aswellastoinitiate works on regional hospitals at Lethem, Moruca and Kato.Thiswasinadditionto theapprovalbytheHouseof $3.6billionfortheprovision of drugs and medical supplies.
The National Assembly also approved $1.2 billion under the Ministry of Education to support the operations of the University of Guyana for which tuition fees will be abolished in January 2025 as announced by His Excellency President IrfaanAliinOctoberlast. It would be recalled that just over three months ago Financial Papers Number OneandTwowereapproved intheNationalAssemblyon August 9. The two papers totaling$40Bwereapproved following a nine-hour long debateintheHouse. Financial Paper One, for Current Estimates, totaled $8,566,812,000 while Financial Paper Two for Capital Estimates totaled $32,182,604,021. It should be noted that this year's National Budget, the largest to date was approved in the National Assembly on February 2, 2024, to the tune of $1.146 trillion.This means that this year's Budget has been increased to $1.271 trillion withtheapprovalofthefour financial papers tabled and approved.
It’s a classic Guyanese tale, really You live in the fastest growing economy in the world an economy that’sgushingoilwealthlike a fire hydrant busted wide open—and yet, when the Global Super League (GSL) cricket tournament is held, the stands at the National Stadium look like an
Opposition political meeting Forget crowds roaring for every boundary; you’re more likely to hear the echo of the cricket ball than the cheers of a packed audience.
Let’s take this sparse attendanceasametaphorfor the average Guyanese bank account—empty Sure,there was a good showing last month for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Backthen,thelocalteam,the Guyana Amazon Warriors, had us dreaming of glory Families scraped together the money to attend and to scream their support for the local franchise. But two tournamentsintwomonths? Sorry, that’s asking too much. Christmas is around the corner, and Guyanese wallets have officially hit theircrease.
Let’s break down the seeming paradox. We are told—repeatedly, as if it’s a h y m n t o m o d e r n prosperity—that Guyana is thefastestgrowingeconomy in the world. Oil revenues areflowing.GDPfiguresare soaring. Foreign investors are elbowing each other to get in on the action. If we were to believe the
headlines, we should all be sipping whiskey at cricket matches while feasting on lobsterrolls.
The organizers of the GSL must have been gobsmacked.Theyprobably envisioned crowds spilling out of the stadium gates, vendors hawking flags, and fans chanting like it was Carnival. Instead, they got a handful of spectators, many of whom were probably wondering whether they should’ve spent that money ontheirlightbillinstead.
Here’stherub:thosewho engineered this economic marvel the government, the technocrats, the oil magnates are either in denialorutterlyoutoftouch. They seem genuinely surprised that the common Guyanesefancan’taffordto attend back-to-back cricket tournaments. It’s as though they believe that economic growth translates directly into disposable income for everyone. Newsflash: it doesn’t.
The truth is, the oil wealth isn’t trickling down. It’s pooling at the top. Meanwhile, the average citizen is living in “prosperity limbo ” They hear about the wealth, they see the numbers, but their paychecks remain the same. The price of food goes up, rent skyrockets, and even going to the cinema costs a handandaleg.Allthewhile, the mythical oil dividend is nowheretobefound.
What’s particularly galling is the government’s
apparent shock at the sparse GSL crowds. You’d think they’dnoticethatthecostof livinghasbeenclimbinglike a six in cricket while wages are like dot balls. But no, they’re too busy patting themselves on the back for being the poster children of economic growth Never mind that the average Guyanese can’t afford to enjoytheveryentertainment that’s supposed to distract themfromtheirstruggles.
To the politicians and planners, here’s some free advice: stop drinking your ownKool-Aid.GDPgrowth is a number; it’s not a meal on a table or a ticket to a cricketmatch.Realwealthis measured by the quality of life of your citizens, not by how many foreign investors are salivating over your oil reserves.
The GSL fiasco should be a wake-up call Governments have a way of interpreting failure as a “learning opportunity” without actually learning anything. They’ll probably chalk this up to “poor marketing” or “timing issues” rather than face the uncomfortable truth: their economic policies are widening the gap between thehavesandthehave-nots.
Meanwhile, the cricket fans of Guyana—the real cricket fans, the ones who bleed Amazon Warriors —are left to wonder what happened They’ve spent their savings on CPL, juggledtheirbudgetstokeep upwithrisingcosts,andnow
Guyana
E v e r y t h
n g d o e s flip—land,house,car,even dem lil garden lots. But Dem Boys hear ‘bout de latest flippin’ scheme, and disonetekdecake.
One man win a big government contract. Big money, big ting. De man sign he name, flash he pearly whites, an’pose fuh de cameras. Dem call he a “contractor.” De problem is, de man ain’t know de difference between cement and concrete. He tek de advance money, buy a big ride, and even sponsor a BBQ lime. But when time come fuh do de work, de mandehstucklikeabrokedown tractor in muddy
sand. De man behind schedule bad. Not one w e e k , n o t t w o weeks months! Dem government people start sending letters, calling fuh meetings, an’ giving deadline pon top ah deadline But dis man smart. He seh, “I got a plan!”
Guess wah? He decide fuh flip de contract! Yes, you hear right. He looking fuh sell de same contract wha he win to somebody else. He find a man who actually know how fuh do de work an’ seh, “You tek dis contract, you pay me a small fee fuh de hustle.”
Smallfee?Ismillions!
Imagine dat. Is now contracts does flip just like land. You ain’t need skills
they’re being asked to dig even deeper for the GSL. Sorry, but Santa Claus is already knocking, and the kids’ Christmas gifts take priority over another T20 match.
So here we are, in the fastest growing economy in the world, where the cricket stadium is half-empty, and the average citizen is struggling to keep up with therisingcostofeverything.
It’s a paradox worthy of a Shakespearean tragedy, exceptthere’snocatharsisat the end, just more bills to pay
Maybe the GSL organizers will figure out a way to fill the stands for the remaining matches. Maybe they’ll slash ticket prices or handoutfreeones.Ormaybe they’ll realize what the rest of us already know: the real problemisn’tcricket;it’sthe economy
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
no more. All you need is connections, a lil fancy talk, an’ a big smile. You don’t even haffi lift a hammer or mix a batch ah mortar Justgetdecontract, flip it, an’laugh all de way todebank.
De man who buy de contractgunsweatbloodto meet dem deadlines, while de first man sitting comfy in he hammock sipping coconut water Dem Boys seh flippin’ gone to a next level in dis country One daysomebodygonflipdem pension.Watchan’see!
But dem boys seh dis: Guyana might be a flippin’ nation, but de real flippin’ gonstartwhendetaxpayers findoutwhoreallyflipping demmoney Talkhalf.Leffhalf
Many Guyanese prefertopoint the finger at Burnham. Oh man! was he bad or what, bad fuh decades. So bad that four decadesafterhisdeparture,it isasifheisstillinthemidst weavinghisspecialbrandof magic. Andmayhem.
In that early fight for powerinGuyana,therewere some citizens who gave of their all, so that success would grace their efforts. And the visions of their leaders. Cheddi Jagan lost that one. Men and women and children also lost their lives. Thetollbeforeandafter
is longer, no less grim:
homes burnt, spirits destroyed, families broken, national assets damaged or destroyed, hatreds fanned and still flaming at fevered pitch. The fight for power drives men and women to those sacrifices, even the ultimateone. And then where did all thatfighting(rightorwrong) leadto,whathappened?
Richmond Hill and Brooklyn stand as new and separate and distant Guyana(s).
Distant,butstillhereand embroiled in the ugliness that is called democracy Even those who made many
akillingandmuchofaliving from tyranny, delight to speak about how much they are of democracy. Citizens couldn'tspeak,buttherewas democracy.
Citizenslivedinfear,but it was not tyranny. Guyanesewereforcedtoflee to hustle a living, starting fromthebottominanyplace that would accept them
Even many of those who were in the bosom of the winnersenjoyedthefruitsof their tainted handiworks, foundthenextplaneoutafter atime.
But their own country still ranked high despite the multiplicity of human rights
obscenities, national leadership vulgarities, the decays that were so obvious allover.
Insum,toitscore,thatis a snapshot of where the ferociousfightforpowerled. It'srevealing,isn'tit?
A harsh, but powerful and poignant, reminder of where the fight for power led, and what it did to a country and its citizenry It is a memory that won't let many Guyanese forget, won't let go of those willing to limit themselves to what proves their points, enriches theirbankaccounts,orallow the worst to fester inside of them. Afterseveralcyclesof
brutalfightsforpower, the crippling failures of leaders, this is whe everyroadterminates. Then restart.
The year 1992 opened the door to a restart. It startedoutwithbackstowall after another bruising fight for power (what else was new?) and looking uphill at thenearinsurmountable.
Astheyearspassedinto a new millennium, the right way was found to be demanding, so the easy way was chosen, has become the norm.
The five-year seasonal fights continued, the jangling quarrels continued in the aftermath, and Guyanese continued to fly and then flock in unfamiliar enclaves.
What else is there left to be said, with one more keyboard letter pressed?
Guyana is so good, Guyanese leaders are so great,butthereareGuyanese citizensgoingcrazytogetas far from here as possible. Power,themostintoxicating of aphrodisiacs, can also be abused to deform into the power of the most determinedassassins.
Well, is this not what Guyanesehavehadhere? It is why so many seek the sanctuary of silence, so few (thefoolish)arelefttotoil.
The roads and buildings help. Where is the human quality, the leadership integrity, the governance moralityandaccountability? I seek that indefinable, but very feasible, individual vitality
I leave 1992 and somewhat unfinished, for it was the proverbial calm, if thatlicensecouldbetaken.
Along came 2020, and with it came oil. Oil, of all things, as if Guyanese did not already have too much toxicself-destructionintheir hearts.
The fight for power mutated into the monstrous, made the pitched battles of before look like kid's play Somehow,nobodydied. But everythingelsedid.
Truth died first Rigging was pronounced dead in one spot, but multiplied exponentially in almost every other place, hauntsterribly Fairness died and was unceremoniously buried Justice died, but is ashamed to say so. Those are among the deep wounds that came after the fight for power in 2020.
More are likely to come next year, in the unlikely event that the white people decide to stand on the sidelines and allow Guyanese to duke it out. There is a self-check in place,though:nosidewants tobehavebadly,comeacross poorly
Not with all these foreigners putting up their money here Nor risk getting on the wrong side of that other champion of democracy residing in the White House Quick digression: in the perpetual fight for power in Guyana, the only ones who have escaped unscathed are the Americans. The folks with the most blood on their hands are like Lady Macbeth: don't stare at me, lookhardandlongatself.
The 2020 fight for power, where did it lead, what did it produce? Working backwards, it produced a set of impotent leaders. Oil.
All the oil in the world and their lamps have none, not a drop. Then, it led, returned, Guyanese back to thepast. Theyokeofforeign dominance. The foreigners empower local leaders to oppress.
Democracy is a funny, clumsy, dirty, nasty story Deadly,too. ThePPPfought toothandnailforpower,but nowdoesn'tknowwhattodo withit.
Other than to let the whitemanwrapitaroundthe necks of its leaders. Go tell the Guyanese people some foolishness,somecock-andbullstory
ThePNCisstillfighting that 2020 battle, but the wrongenemy Itself. It,too, hasalloweditselftobeawed by the power of the white man, his visions, machinations.
Forhimself. Afterallthe manywarsforpower,thisis where its success has led. Self-enslavers. Grovelers. Boot lickers. Manhood has succumbed Nationhood has been vanquished Suddenly, both Burnham and Jagan loom gigantic. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the o p i n i o n s o f t h i s newspaper.)
Ex x o n M o b i l Guyana Limited (EMGL) is still i n t e r e s t e d i n t h e government's first oil block auction, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo revealed on Thursday He made the disclosure following his announcementlastweekthat the U.S. oil giant had pulled outoftheauction.
ExxonMobil, Hess New
Ventures Exploration Limited, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited were approved for the shallow water block –S8. Last month, the Ministry of Natural Resources in an update on the competitive bidding round for the petroleum exploration licences, disclosed that four companieshaveacceptedthe new Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) while ExxonMobil is still reviewingthePSA.
However, during Jagdeo'sNovember21,press conference he was asked for anupdateontheauctionand during his response on why this process has been draggedoutthislong.
Jagdeo had disclosed, “ So then the others, remember Exxon pulled out and they wanted to use the area for carbon capture and storage,andwedon'twantto dothatatthisstage.”
On Thursday, the Vice President said that since his public statement last week
that the oil company has walked away from the auction, “Exxon has written to us saying that that might notbethefullstory,thatthey stillhavesomeinterestinit.”
He continued, “So from last week to now, after my press conference and I verified it with Vickram Bharrat, that was said in a meeting, and they said that there might have been a misunderstanding that they have not walked away from it.So,let'sseehowitgoes.”
Guyana'smaidenauction launched in December 2022 featured 14 blocks but only eightreceivedbids.
The fiscal regime of the new PSA requires the payment of a 10 percent royalty and a 10 percent corporate tax The cost recovery ceiling will be capped at 65 percent each year, while profits will be shared 50/50 between companiesandtheState.
A 25-year-old man was on Wednesday night shot by policeafterhereportedlypulledagunonofficersat'E'Field Sophia,GreaterGeorgetown.
Accordingtopolice,themanidentifiedasQuincyMorris, wasresistingarrestafterpatrolranksrespondedtoadomestic violencereportathishome.
Morrisisaccusedofassaultinghis18-year-oldgirlfriend. Thewomantookpolicetotheaccusedhometoarresthim butonlyhissisterswerethere.
However, while leaving, Morris entered the yard in the companyofabout20men,policesaid.
He was reportedly approached and cautioned by police about the domestic violence allegation made against him. PolicethenattemptedtoarrestMorriswhoreportedlysaid,"I amnotgoinganywhere...thisisSophia."
“Hethenpulledwhatappearedtobeahandgunfromthe waistofhispantsandpointeditattheranks,”policesaidina pressrelease.
Inretaliation,apoliceofficerdrewhisserviceweaponand shotMorriswhofelltotheground.The20menwhowerein Morris'companytookhisgunandfledthescene.
ContactwasthenmadewiththePoliceOperationsRoom forassistanceawoundedMorriswastakentotheGeorgetown Public Hospital where he is undergoing treatment for a gunshotwoundtohisupperthigh.
“His condition is stable. The suspect is presently under Policeguard,”policestated.
ExxonMobil is the operator of the Stabroek Block, and it holds 45% interest in that block. Its partners Hess and CNOOC hold 30% and 25% respectively Guyana's oilrich Stabroek Block, operated by ExxonMobil, requires a meagre 2% royalty,notaxes,75%cost recovery ceiling each month which leaves 25% of profit to be shared with Guyana. Stakeholders had
warned that the terms of the Exxon deal could deter investment since the new PSA now requires greater fiscal benefits for the country
This led to calls for new projects in the Stabroek Block to be subjected to these terms; however, the government remains adamantthatseekinggreater benefitscouldslowthepace of development and chase investors.
Palestinians walk through a damaged site amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip November 27, 2024. REUTERS/Hussam Al-Masri
CAIRO, Nov 28 (Reuters) - Israeli military strikes killed at least 26 Palestinians across the Gaza Strip on Thursday, medics said, as forces stepped up theirbombardmentofcentral areas and tanks pushed deeper into the north and southoftheenclave.
Theescalationcameaday after Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah began a ceasefire in Lebanon, halting more than a year of hostilities and raising hopes among many
Palestinians in Gaza for a similar deal with Hamas, whichrulestheenclave.
Israel'smilitarycampaign - with the avowed intent of eradicating Hamas militants after the group's deadly raid on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023 - has laid waste to the enclaveof2.3millionpeople.
"I hope a ceasefire will happen like it did in Lebanon...Ijustwanttotake my children to see my land, my house, to see what they did to us, I want to live in safety," said Amal Abu Hmeid,adisplacedwomanin Gaza.
"Godwillingwewillhave a truce," she said, sitting in the courtyard of a school sheltering displaced families in Khan Younis in the southernGazaStrip.
The courtyard was filled with dirt and water streamed in from where people did their laundry Clothes were airing outside classrooms as childrenplayednearby
"Lifewasbeautifulbefore the war Now there is nothing beautiful, it's all gone. Our houses are gone, ourbrothersaregone,andno one is left. Now we hardly get...onemealaday Wecan't even get bread,"Abu Hmeid told Reuters.Announcing the Lebanon accord on Tuesday, U.S.PresidentJoeBidensaid hewouldnowrenewhispush for a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, urging Israel and Hamastoseizethemoment.
Months of efforts to negotiate a ceasefire have yielded scant progress, and negotiationsarenowonhold.
The ceasefire in the parallel conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, an ally of Hamas, took effect before dawn on Wednesday, bringing a halt to hostilities that had escalated sharply in recent months and overshadowed the conflict in Gaza.
Israel'scampaigninGaza has killed nearly 44,200 people and displaced nearly alltheenclave'spopulationat leastonce,Gazaofficialssay
Vast swathes of the territory areinruins.
OnThursday, the head of the United Nations Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, said at least 70 percent of those killed in Gaza were women and children.He said the ongoing Israeli offensive in the northernedgeofGazaforthe past seven weeks has uprooted130,000people.
The Hamas-led militants whoattackedsouthernIsraeli communities 13 months ago, triggering the war, killed some 1,200 people and captured more than 250 hostages,Israelhassaid.
On Thursday, six people were killed in two separate airstrikesonahouseandnear thehospitalofKamalAdwan inBeitLahiyainthenorthern Gaza Strip, while four others were killed when an Israeli strike hit a motorcycle in Khan Younis in the south, medics said Later on Thursday,anIsraeliairstrike near a tent encampment housingdisplacedfamiliesin easternKhanYouniskilledat least five people and woundedothers,medicssaid.
InNuseirat,oneofGaza's eight historic refugee camps, Israeli planes carried out several airstrikes, destroying a multi-storey building and hitting roads outside mosques. At least 11 people were killed in those strikes, according to health officials at Al-Awda Hospital in the camp They said in a statement that dozens of familiesweretrappedintheir homes after some tanks advanced from the northern area of the camp and that ambulance vehicles were unabletoreachthembecause ofcontinuedtankfire.
ContactedbyReuters,the Israelimilitarysaiditsforces were continuing to "strike terror targets as part of the operational activity in the Gaza Strip".In Rafah, near the border with Egypt, tanks pushed deeper into the northwest area of the city, residentssaid.
The Ministry of Home Affairs on Thursday signed $1.1 billion in contracts for several projects under the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Prison Service(GPS).
A c c o r d i n g t o information released by the ministry, these projects aim to bolster infrastructure and services under its mandate. Thispublicationunderstands that the works encompass a widerangeofdevelopmental initiatives designed to en
successoftheseprojects,”he toldthecontractors.
ThePSalsoinformedthe contractors of the need for their workers to adhere to safety protocols by always wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), stressing that workers' safety is a top priority.“Contractors have pledgedtheircommitmentto completing the work on schedule, ensuring that the highest standards are upheld,”theministrynoted.
Of the $1.1 billion in contracts, the PS signed a
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Andre Ally on Thursday signing the contracts with some of the contractors. (Photos,MinistryofHomeAffairs)
l capacity and improve living and working conditions for staffandthepublic.
Signing the eleven projects at the Ministry's
Brickdam office was PermanentSecretary(PS)of theMinistry,AndreAlly
In his address to the contractors during a simple ceremony, the Permanent Secretary highlighted the importance of completing the projects on time and within scope, ensuring that theyalignwiththeMinistry's vision of delivering highqualityinfrastructure.
“This significant investment underscores our focus on enhancing infrastructure to better serve our communities and workforce. It is imperative that contractors maintain timelines and adhere to safetystandardstoensurethe
$180,124,701 contract with Sheriff Construction Inc. to construct Female Living Quarters at Mazaruni Prison (Lot 2) This project is expected to be completed withinayear
A contract valued at $191,564,447 was inked withAdvanceEngineeringto complete a Male Living Quarters at Mazaruni Prison (Lot3)within12months.
The ministry will be constructing a Staff Living Quarters at the Lusignan Prison (Lot 4) and these works will be done by NP Contracting & Transporting Services for $161,285,125. According to the ministry, thecontractorhasaduration of12monthstocompletethe project.
Anotherprojectisforthe construction of Trade Shop (Lot 1) and this will also be u
Contracting & Transporting Services to the value of $87,526,782 The project hadadeadlineof10months.
For the Guyana Prison Service, there will be an
Suppression System at the Lusignan Prison, and the works will be conducted by Energy Empire. The project will cost $27,288,922 and has a duration of seven months.
The ministry further disclosed that Professional E
Construction Service will undertake the expansion of the New Amsterdam Prison Power Network
r $132,450,675. The project hasasix-monthdeadline.
FortheMazaruniPrison, a project was signed for the construction of a Caged Walkway. Undertaking the works is Shop Modern Guyana for $79,651,960. That project is scheduled to be completed in nine months.
Another project entails t
Rockcastle Building at MazaruniPrison.Contractor SBC Construction Supplies & Transportation was awarded a $119,393,040 contract and is expected to complete the works within sixmonths.
NP Contracting & Transporting Services was awarded another contract.
The enti
y will be constructing the Officer Living Quarters at New Amsterdamfor$39,991,980. Theprojecthasadurationof
eight months.Notably, the same contractor will also be building the Officer Living Quarters at Wisroc, Region 10. This project is valued at $37,562,952 and will be completed within eight months.
Finally, the Amerindian Village of Paramakatoi in Region Eight will get a brand-new police station within six months. The Permanent Secretary signed a contract with K & D Contracting Services for $40,853,190.
Th e G u y a n a National Bureau
of Standards (GNBS)hascertified50new localmanufacturerssofarin 2024, as part of its efforts to promote quality in the country'smanufacturingand servicessectors.
T h e G N B S O n Wednesday, officially certified B & R Food Packaging and Crafts, a
business located at Auchlyne, Corentyne, Berbice,underthe'Permitto Use the Made in Guyana Certification Mark' The
Some products manufactured by B&R Products, certified GNBS Approved 'Made in Guyana'
Management and Staff of New Vision Medical Centre Inc. Laboratory proudly pose with GNBS Certified Stickers and GYS 170 Certificate and Plaque
certification ceremony took place at the GNBS Meeting Room at the National Exhibition Complex, Sophia,Georgetown.
According to a GNBS release, “The business is now permitted to use the GNBS Approved Made in Guyana Standards Mark on their Mango Achar, Pepper Sauce, Coconut Oil, Dry Peppers, Satwa, and Pickles under the Intrinsic Quality brand name.” B & R Food Packaging and Crafts is one of 24 companies that received support from the
Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce (MinTIC) under a special project aimed at certifying women-led businesses. The project also provided technical assistance and training to help businesses meet the certification criteria, promoting local content and highlighting authentic Guyanese products.
The certificate was presented to the owner of B & R Food Packaging and C r a f t s , B u d w a t t y (Continuedonpage16)
President Irfaan Ali and Member of Parliament Jennifer Westford unveil the plaque for the $688.8 million Brigadier Gary Beaton Aerodrome in Eteringbang, Region Seven.(DPI)
DPI - President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Thursday officially opened the$688.8millionBrigadier Gary Beaton Aerodrome in Eteringbang,RegionSeven.
This state-of-the-art, 24hour all-weather facility is a fitting tribute to the late Brigadier Beaton, who tragically died in a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) helicoptercrashlatelastyear
whileperforminghisduties. The rehabilitation of the EteringbangAirstipbeganin July 2022 under Brigadier Beaton'sleadership. The laterite airstrip, situated near the GuyanaVenezuelaborder,hadbeena sourceofsafetyconcernsfor years. The remote location and challenging conditions, includingfrequentrobberies, made it difficult to source
materials and maintain the airstrip.
TheGDFembarkedona $214 5 million upgrade projectinSeptember2022to address these issues. This i
g approximately 2,100 feet of the laterite runway with c
, significantly enhancing its safety and operational capacity
Thischallengingfeat,the President said, should be recognized with honours beinggiventothosewhosaw theprojectcometoreality “I believe that too often wedonotrecognizeproperly theservicethatisgivenandI would say that the appropriate border medal should be given to all those whoservedonthisprojectin this important border location,” the head-of-state announced.
P r e s i d e n t A l i underscored that Brigadier Beaton poured his entire being into fortifying the security architecture of the country, which included the completion of the very
airstripthatisnownamedin hishonour.
“It was a mission linked to national security interests that they were returning on. It was a security related mission of which this [airstrip] was an important
componentthattheypaidthe ultimate sacrifice for their country, and we salute them…every single day of ourlife,”thepresidentsaid. Meanwhile, Eteringbang and the surrounding
(Continuedonpage16)
Drivers (25-45 Year old) to deliver Groceries & Porter to work on the canter & warehouse. Attractive salary. Tel673-7373.
One male & Female staff to work in a store. Call: 2252313 / 658-8559.
Reputable transportation service is seeking experienced Chauffeur with mini bus and hire car license. Call: 645-0025 / 707-9428.
General domestic- Age 30-45 years to work in Campbellville- 621-5140.
Experienced bus driver for Region #3, Must have a valid bus license. Contact : 600-79618/ 703-7133 or email : e.e.transportgy@gmail.com
1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, spoiler, crash, low mileage PTT Series (first owner). Call: 649-0956.
One Unregistered Nissan X-Trail 2016 model, Mode Premiere. Call : 649-0956.
For Sale 6 used American made Dental chairs excellent condition contact Mr Vino on 661-3030 or 626-8918
One Nissan Double cab pickup, fully off road setup ; -5 Million Negotiable. Call: 626-8919 / 661-3030.
Newly constructed 2 bedroom house in A Safe & healthy environment. Call : 698-6496.
Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 629-5526.
Visa Application:U.S.A, Canada & UK:Graphics design, advertisements, wedding arch rentals.Tel:6267040.
General domestic, must know to cook, clean , press ect. 3 days, $6000, 8-4 at Keyfood, Mcdoom village next to the post office.
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Pastry maker, Cleaner, sales representative, security personnel at Humphrey's Bakery & Farm produce @ Ketley street. 505-1324.
One able-bodied porter & One handyman, apply at Keyfood trading Mcdoom next to the post office.
Maid to clean for east bank area. Call: 615-9132.
Female cleaner. Call : 6159132 / 645-8443.
Vacancy exist for one sale representative, customer friendly team played Georgetown based toy store. Tele: 658-4874.
Two Electrician- Must have previous experienced in electrical installations & repairs. Call: 644-9084/664-9635. (Domestic & industrial wiring)
Royal link Auto parts are seeking 2 sales persons. contact: 616-7006.
Male project supervisor (Road Construction Field) 3550 years old, 5-8 years experience. Email Cv: rbinvestmentic@gmail.com
One (1) painter & Male cleaner 615-9132 or 645-8443.
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BBC - At least 113 people are missing, and at least 15 people are known to have died after a landslide in eastern Uganda, the police say.
The landslides triggered by heavy rainfall affected multiple villages in the Bulambuli district, about 280 km (178 miles) from the capital Kampala.
A rescue operation is underway after at least 40 houses were swept away, the Ugandan Red Cross Society said on X.
The Ugandan police said that as well as the 15 bodies, another 15 injured people had been rescued and admitted to
hospital. At least six of the bodies recovered have been children, the Ugandan Red Cross Society told the BBC.
Heavy rainfall has inundated the East African country for the last few days.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja issued a disaster warning on X. “People are suspected to be missing and some feared buried by slides,” her statement said.
Rivers have burst their banks, flooding schools and churches, destroying bridges, and isolating communities.
The military has been de-
ployed to assist with search and recovery efforts.
On Wednesday, the defence forces said on X that two boats had been deployed during an operation to rescue a taxi stuck on a bridge near the town of Pakwach.
One of the boats capsized and an engineer died.
In parliament on Thursday, the speaker, Anitah Among, expressed her condolences to the relatives of those who have lost their lives in the flooding across the country.
This is not the first time that eastern Uganda has been hit by floods and landslides.
people. This was one of the most devastating natural disasters in the country.
The region is mountainous with arable land which is good for farming - one of the reasons people are reluctant to move away, alongside their attachment to their ancestral land.
But this year alone, the heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides have forced thousands of people to leave their homes, according to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
From page 15 communities will see better economic fortunes, since the risks associated with flying to the communities will significantly reduce with the introduction of this new and improved airstrip.
“Needless to say, when we make this investment, we reduce the risk of failure for
the industry, we reduce the risk of damages, and with reduced risk comes reduced prices,” President Ali highlighted.
In addition to the aerodrome, President Ali announced several other development initiatives for the community, including a new 450ft by 250ft tarmac that will
be used for aircraft parking.
The president was adamant that these initiatives also included the agricultural initiatives that will contribute to Guyana’s role in reducing the Caribbean region’s food import bill by 25% by 2025, providing local contractors with an opportunity for airstrip maintenance contracts, among others.
The construction of the airstrip is part of the government’s plan to improve and expand hinterland travel. The Kaieteur, Paruima, Orinduik, and Kaikan airstrips are all part of that expansion program, and is coupled with the removal of VAT from hinterland travel.
From page 14 Ramnarine, by GNBS Technical Officer Rosmarie Liliah. Ramnarine expressed her gratitude for the support she received from the Ministry, GNBS, and her family.
“When I received the call to proceed with certification, I was very happy because it took a lot of patience and hard work to get my business to this stage.
I must say working with the GNBS is very good, the staff is amazing, and they are very helpful,” she remarked in the release.
In August 2024, five manufacturing companies, including the popular wine manufacturer AJ Signs &
Propa GT Local Wines, were also certified. Other companies certified that month included Coconut Grove of Patentia Housing Scheme, West Bank Demerara, and King’s Jewellery World, among many others throughout the year.
The GNBS has also certified 38 laboratories in 2024, including two new laboratories this month under the National Standard ‘GYS 170:2021 - Requirements for Operations of a Laboratory.’
Consultant Lendon Wilson, who assisted with the certification process, praised the effort, saying, “It is a true testament of the dedication, skill, and hard work of everyone involved, especially in this clinic.
Thank you to the GNBS for the guidance and support throughout this process. Your expertise, leadership, and guidance have made this all possible.”
On November 20, 2024, New Vision Medical Center Inc. Laboratory was also certified by the GNBS. The certificate was presented to the
On November 5, 2024, the GNBS certified the Executive Medical Clinic Laboratory, located at 345 East Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown. The certification was presented to the laboratory’s Quality Manager, Naressa Abrams.
Chief Operating Officer, Bradley Chin, by the Acting Head of Certification, Keon Rankin, at the laboratory’s location at 176 Middle Street, Georgetown. Both laboratories received plaques from the GNBS to display, indicating their certification status.
The GNBS congratulates the companies and laboratories certified under its various certification programs and encourage other businesses to join by applying through the GNBS website at gnbsgy.org. For more information, businesses can contact the GNBS at telephone numbers 219-0064-66, the GNBS hotline at 219-0069, or via WhatsApp at 692-4627.
Withworksunderwayon a new secondary school at Kopinang Village, Region Eight, the Ministry of Education is now seeking a contractor to build a students’ dormitory to complementtheschool.
This is according to an invitation for bids (IFB) published in Wednesday’s editionofthisnewspaper
With no engineer’s estimates provided, the ministry stated in its document, that they are also seeking bids for the construction of a multipurposehallandakitchenat Kopinang(Lot2).
The Education Ministry
in July turned the sod to commence the construction of the village’s first secondary school building.
Withthisprojectexpectedto be completed shortly, the ministry is moving now to h a v e a d o r m i t o r y constructedtoaccommodate the students who will attend the school from nearby villages.
It was reported that the new school is expected to a c c o m m o d a t e approximately 250 students whencompleted.
T h e K o p i n a n g
SecondarySchoolisbeing built to the tune of $199,376,751 by Sheriff
Construction Inc which was awarded the contract following the national bidding process through the National Procurement a n d T e n d e r Administration Board (NPTAB)
This publication previously reported that plans to build a secondary school in Kopinang Village were made last year when Minister of Education Priya Manickchand visited the areaandtoldresidentsabout theministry’sintention.
At the time, she mentioned “It’s going to allow us to close six primary tops in the
catchment area Right now, the children from this catchment are going to Kato or at the primary top. AtKato,theyareonrotation becauseit’sjusttoomanyof them.”
During the sod-turning exercise, the minister e m p h a s i z e d t h e transformative impact of the Kopinang Secondary School on the local community,statingthatthe childrenwillnolongerhave to leave their region to accesstheireducation.
K a i e t e u r N e w s understands that Kopinang Secondary is one of three new schools that will be constructed in the region
The other villages that are set to get brand new secondary schools are Monkey Mountain and Micobie. The Ministry of Education was allocated $74 4B, a portion of which will be used for the c o n s t r u c t i o n , rehabilitation, extension, and maintenance of educationalfacilities
Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall, SC
Pr o p o s e d amendments to the Wills Act of 1902havebeentabledinthe NationalAssembly and will see changes to Sections 6A and 14 of the existing legislation.
TheamendmentBillwas read for the first time on Monday Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC has said that
theamendmentstotheWills Actwillhelptosimplifythe process of probating or validatingofwills.
“These are the simple amendments in the law that can have such an important impact on the lives of our people,andthisisthetypeof social law reform that our government engages in,” he said. TheAttorney General explained that the current law requires the presence of thewitnesseswhosignedthe will for it to be probated, despitethelikelihoodofthis processoccurringyearsafter thewillwaswritten.
Probate is the legal process in which a will is reviewed to determine whether it is valid and authentic.
“The law requires an affidavit from one of those witnessestoprobatethewill in court That document must be produced when the will is probated but
Frompage05
sometimesthewitnessesare difficult to find so probates are held up for years…and the properties also deteriorate,”heexplained.
To remedy this problem, the proposed amendments will require the witness(es) to complete the Affidavit at the time of signing the will andattachsameaspartofthe will.
TheAG pointed out that while this may seem like a simple amendment, it can save substantial sums in courtfeesandlegalexpenses while fast-tracking the probate.
According to the explanatory memorandum
attached to the Bill, the new section 6A1 provides that oneoftheattestingwitnesses to a will may swear to affidavitastodueexecution ofthewillimmediatelyafter theexecutionofthewilloras soon as practicable after the executionofthewill.
Section6A(2)ofthenew section provides for the affidavit of due execution under sub-section (1) to be stated at the bottom of the will, on a separate page annexed to the will or on a separatedocument.
Section 6(A) (3) p r o v i d e s t h a t notwithstanding any other laworpractice,oneaffidavit
of due execution of a will shall be sufficient evidence astothedueexecutionofthe will unless the Court orders otherwise. Only the Court m a y d e c i d e t h a t circumstances require two affidavits or any other evidence.
Meanwhile, Section 14 provides for the Minister to make regulations for the better execution of the provisionsoftheAct. Under Section 14, the Minister has power to make offences for breaches of the regulation and the penalties for the breaches shall not exceed a fine of $1,000,000 and imprisonmentoffiveyears.
CSEC programme over the past ten years, with over 50% of them attaining tertiary level qualifications, and gaining either fulltimeorpart-timeemployment. When there is a shared vision for the empowerment of people with disabilities and a government recognizes theimportanceofcollaborationandsupport, a country can only benefit from having educatedandempoweredcitizens.
Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disab
(GCOPD)
Social media companies that do notenforcetheban could receive fines of up to A U S $ 5 0 m i l l i o n (US$32.5m).
Aljazeera - Australia’s Parliament has passed a law banningchildrenagedunder 16 from using social media, one of the strictest regulations targeting the platformsintheworld.
The law, which was passed by the Senate on Thursday, requires social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok to prevent those under 16 from having accounts.
Failure to do so could result in fines of up to A U S $ 5 0 m i l l i o n (US$32.5m).PrimeMinister
Anthony Albanese championed the legislation andralliedparentstosupport thebill.
Before the vote in parliament, Albanese said socialmediawas“aplatform
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaks on the Online Safety Amendment Bill in the House of Representatives atParliament House in Canberra, Australia, on November 25, 2024 [Lukas Coch/AAP Image via Reuters]
forpeerpressure,adriverof anxiety, a vehicle for scammersand,worstofall,a toolforonlinepredators”. Headdedthathewanted
youngAustralians “off their phones and onto the footy and cricket field, the tennis and netball courts, in the swimmingpool”.
While privacy advocates and some children’s rights groups opposed the bill, 77 percent of the public supported the ban on under-
16s, according to the latest polling Australian antibullying advocate Ali
Halkic, whose 17-year-old son Allem committed suicide in 2009 after social media bullying, praised the legislation, saying giving controlbacktoparentswasa “starting point”. “For the 10- to 15-year-olds, [the ban] will be hard to manage, but the next generation who are coming up who are seven, eight or nine years old, if they don’t know what it is, whyisitimportant?”
he told the Reuters newsagency
Meanwhile, advocacy groups and academics warn that the ban could prevent vulnerable young people, including those f r o m t h e L G B T Q community and immigrant teenagers, from finding supportnetworks.
Australia’s Human Rights Commission said the law may also interfere
with the human rights of young people by blocking their ability to participate in society
For privacy advocates, the concern with the bill is t h e p o t e n t i a l f o r heightened personal data collection
Sarah Hanson-Young, a Greens senator, said before the vote that the legislation was “boomers trying to tell youngpeople howtheinternetshouldwork to make themselves feel better.”
The current legislation does not offer details about how the ban will be enforced, and it will be at least 12 months before regulators work out the detailsbeforethebancomes intoeffect.
Some companies, including WhatsApp and YouTube, will also likely be granted exemptions, because teenagers may need them for work or recreation.
BBC - The Colombian navyhasinterceptedasemisubmersible vessel packed with cocaine in the Pacific Ocean, as part of an operationinwhichhundreds ofarrestshavebeenmade.
It said the vessel had enough fuel to sail to Australia, on what was believed to be a new smuggling route, and maps indicatedthatiswhereitwas headed.
Smuggling cocaine from South America to Australia is particularly lucrative, as a kilogramme of the illegal drug can fetch up to $240,000 (£190,000) theresix times more than in the US, Colombian security forcessaid.
Officials said the semisubmersible was the third such vessel they had seized inthatpartofthePacific.
That suggested to them that gangs had established newdirectmaritimerouteto Australia,theysaid.
Australians are the highest per capita users of cocaine in the world,
accordingtotheOECD.
Thelatestnarco-subwas intercepted 1,200 miles southwest of Clipperton Island, an uninhabited
Semi-submersible vessels have been used to smuggle drugs to Europe but now they are capable of sailing to Australia, the Colombian navy says (Colombian Navy)
French coral atoll in the Pacific The wood-andfibre-glass vessel is thought to have sailed from the Colombian port of Tumaco, covering thousands of miles
beforeitwasstopped.
The chief of naval operations staff for the Colombian Navy, ViceAdmiral Orlando Enrique Grisales,saidthethreesemi-
submersibles they had stopped were all capable of sailing from Colombia to Australiawithouttheneedto refuelatsea.
“That’s when we began working with Australian authorities,”headded.
T h e s e m isubmersibles were intercepted as part of “Orion”, a multinational naval operation during which security forces from dozens of nations seized a totalof225tonnesofcocaine oversixweeks.
Orion also led to the arrest of more than 400 people across several countries.
Vice-Adm Grisales said Orion had uncovered close links between drug trafficking gangs in South AmericaandOceania.
“They are organised crime networks joined together,”hesaid
Colombian President G u s t a v o P e t r o congratulated the navy forthesuccessfuloperation.
s discovered in Colombian waters, and thanks to the mapsitcarried,weidentified the route,” the vice-admiral told reporters at a news conference.
The Government of Guyana to date has incurred a legal bill of $13.6 million for the arbitration process with the Gas-to-Energy contractor,CH4-Lindsayca.
This was revealed by Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret'd) Mark Phillips on Wednesday during the 89th Sitting of the 12th Parliament.
Prime Minister (PM) Phillips was at the time responding to questions
f r o m O p p o s i t i o n Parliamentarian, David Patterson on an additional sum of $25.3B that was sought by the Office of the Prime Minister to support theproject.
On December 13, 2022, the Government of Guyana (GoG) signed a US$759M
contract with CH4Lindsayca to build two NaturalGasPlantsatWales, West Bank Demerara
(WBD).Thescopeofworks includes construction of a Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) plant and a 300-megawatt naturalgasfireplant.
The Prime Minister told the National Assembly that theadditionalsumrequested doesnotcaterforarbitration costs.
He explained, “This money does not include the sum for the dispute, avoidance and adjudication board. That sum is to date $13.6M.”
The Prime Minister noted that the $13.6M that has been paid to date by the government went towards fees to the consultants and lawyers that are guiding the stateonthematter
Itisnotclearwhoarethe lawyersandconsultantsthat have been recruited by the government.
In April this year, Reuters first reported that
‘Not everyone will get cash grant before Christmas, it might come in good for New Year’ – Jagdeo
Vice President Bharrat
Jagdeo on Thursday announced that while the government is looking to distributethe$100,000oneoff cash grant to public servants and pensioners first–noteverycitizenwill receive theirs before Christmas.
At his press conference on Thursday Jagdeo said, “What I can say to Guyanese is that they will getit,noteveryonewillget itbeforeChristmas.
Alotofpeopleask,Oh, willIgetitbeforeChristmas but I would say to people you still will get it…and it might come in good after Christmas.”
The Vice President
stated that he had previously stated since the cash grant initiative was first announced by President Irfaan Ali in October, that the process would take the government about five months to complete.
“The president said that we are trying to hurry this uptoseeifwecancomplete at least the public servants and the pensioners before theendoftheyear.Wemay beabletodothatandthena numberofotherpeoplewho are registered…” Jagdeo noted.
CH4-Lindsayca initiated legalproceedingsagainstthe GOG for US$90 million in costoverrunsfortheproject.
Notably, at that time, it wasstatedthatthefirstphase of the 300-MWpower plant was running six months behind schedule and full operation is not expected until the fourth quarter of 2025.
Days later, Vice
onboardin2025.”
On Wednesday, the Committee of Supply approved $30.5 billion to cater for the distribution of the one-off $100,000 cash grant to citizens 18 years andabove.Thisisexpected to cover the first phase of the distribution and includespublicservantsand pensioners.
Jagdeo also disclosed that the government is aimingtodistributethecash grant to about 300,000 persons before the end of the year Jagdeo noted that the 2025 budget which is expected to be passed by February will cater for the second phase of the distributionofthe$100,000 cashgrant.
“And then we can seek toappropriatethebalanceof the money, we anticipate thatitwillbeaboutanother $30 billion because we think about 600,000 adults you have in the country, or just over that…” the Vice Presidentstated.
The Vice President noted that the government anticipatesthatinthefuture there will be similar grants. Assuch,henotedthatonce the government completes the database for the distribution the future distribution will become easier
President Bharrat Jagdeo during his weekly press conference at Freedom House, Georgetown blamed ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) for the construction delays in the Walesgasplants. He explained that the contractor was required to deliver228MWofpowerby the end of 2024. He said,
“Fourturbinesweretocome onstreamattheendof202457 MW each. To complete the project in the agreement where the full 300 MW would come on line, that is the combined cycle the steam turbines should have comeonstreambytheendof 2025.”
He therefore noted that the completed project was expected to be delivered by t h e e n d o f 2 0 2 5 Consequently, he pointed out, “what we have now…the delay we believe is by three months so taking ittoendofMarch-Apriland the contractor wants to complete the simple cycle turbines, the gas turbines by August but the project timeline has not shifted that istobringthe300MWfully
Jagdeo said that E x x o n M o b i l w a s responsible for the site preparation, the road, the Materials Offloading Facility (MOF) and the laydown yard “We were supposed to hand over the sitetothecontractorbyJune, wedidnothandoverthesite, that is, Exxon did not hand overthesiteuntilSeptember and it was still incomplete and they handed over an additionalUS$14Mfromthe US$1Bthattheysetasideto the contractor to complete the site, so a three months delay,” he said Guyana Shore Base Inc (GYSBI) was contracted by ExxonMobiltocompletethe site Jagdeo further stated thatthegovernmentdecided to give the contractors an extension of three months (fromtheendof2024),“that is why we are arguing that theplantmustbecompleted byApril of 2025, instead of endDecember2024.”
He explained that GAICO, another Guyanese firm was contracted to construct the Materials Offloading Facility (MOF) and was required to hand over the facility to Exxon in July but never did so until October with there still being challenges in that regard.The former Head of StatesaidtheGoGisatodds
with the contractor over the delay period. He explained, “That is where the three months we are arguing the three months delay on the project came. They want a longer period because the liquidating damages for not completing the project on time for the contractor, if they don't complete the project on time it's over US$11M per month they have to pay in liquidating damages for delay on the project, so they are arguing theyneedmoretimebeyond the three months. We are saying three months is adequate.”
Jagdeo added that the contractor has now made a claim for additional money sincetheyarguethedelayis costing them. The VPnoted however, that the independent supervision firm that was hired by the government from India, Engineers India Limited (EIL)hasreviewedtheclaim andrejecteditinitsentirety Consequently, the VP said the contractor was required to file for a dispute resolution through an official'disputeadjudication andarbitrationboard'.
In September, it was reported that the arbitration panel was set for USmillion-dollar cost overruns claimed by the joint venture againsttheGoG.
(Reuters)-Liverpoolare sweating on the fitness of central defender Ibrahima Konate for Sunday’s home Premier League clash with champions Manchester City but Trent Alexander-Arnold isreadytoreturn.
The one sizeable cloud on Liverpool’s horizon after an impressive 2-0 victory over Real Madrid on
Wednesday in the Champions League was the sight of Konate and right back Conor Bradley hobblingoffthefield.
France international Konate is a particular worry for managerArne Slot as he has been superb at the heart of a Liverpool defence that has conceded only eight Premier League goals in 12
games. Former RB Leipzig player Konate appeared to have hurt his knee while Bradley, who was outstanding up against Real’s Kylian Mbappe, looked to be struggling with ahamstring.
“Conor,Ihadtotakehim off and Ibou didn’t walk off the pitch as he should have after such a fantastic game
that he played,” Slot told reportersonThursday
“He should have made a round of the pitch and clapped the fans but unfortunately he couldn’t so that’snotagoodsign.
“They are still being assessed and it is so close after the game yesterday night,andIjustcameoffthe trainingpitch.So,Ican’ttell you exactly where they are, so we have to wait and see wheretheyarethisweekend andafterthat.”
ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)
You'll find that things are slipping nicely into place for you today, Aries Your persuasivemannerandgentle nudges are just enough to get peoplewhereyouwantthem.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)
When faced with ten entrees onthemenu,itmightbehard for you to choose just one. Feelfreetoordertwoormore, Ta u r u s D o n ' t l e t indecisiveness slow you down.Atthesametime.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
Your dreams won't come true unless you believe in and act onthem,Gemini.Nooneelse is going to do it for you. Unless you have a fairy godmother, you need to take mattersintoyourownhands.
CANCER(June21–July22)
If people hassle you or give you a hard time about your appearance today, pay them nomind,Cancer Youhavethe righttoliveyourlifeanyway youwantto.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
Reachforthepotofgoldatthe end of the rainbow, Leo. It's closerthanyouthink.Indeed, your dreams are completely within your reach, and there are huge forces at work helping you achieve your goals.
VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)
Today is your day to dream and dream big, Virgo. Think aboutwhatitisthatyouwant most out of life. Aim your arrow to the stars and pull back your bow as far as possible. There's no limit to howfaryoucango.
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
Expand your mind to its furthest reaches today, Libra.
opportunity opening up for you in which you can make great strides in a creative realm.Followthemusic.
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)
Your mind may seem rather cloudy today, Scorpio, but don't let this hinder you. In fact, you'll find that you can use this feeling of fantasy to your advantage. Try to bring moremagicintoyourlife.
SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)
Today is an excellent day for you,oneinwhichyou'llfinda great deal of strength in your emotions, Sagittarius Trust that your instincts are serving youwell.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
Things might get a bit confusing for you today, Capricorn. Don't feel like you needtomakesenseofitall.In fact, this task may be impossible. Just be yourself. Let your creative nature shine through.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)Mixyourrealitywithabit of fantasy today, Aquarius. Allowyourfeettocomeoffthe ground for a little while. Give yourselfarest.Takesometime to meditate and clear your mindofyourdailyworries.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
Let yourself go into high creative mode and drift into a whole other world, Pisces. Escape your present reality and explore your fantasies through any sort of artistic endeavor Dreamasbigasyour mindallows.
Liverpool’s record of 15 wins from 17 games in all competitionsunderSlotisall the more impressive as they have suffered injuries to the likes of first-choice keeper
Frompage29 as one of Guyana’s most memorable sporting achievementsoftheyear
Coach and Officials Honoured
ThesuccessofGuyana’s athleteswouldnothavebeen possible without the guidanceoftheircoaches.
Mark Scott, coach of Tianna Springer and a key figure at the Police Progressive Sports Club, was named Coach of the Year
His dedication to nurturing young talent has been instrumental in the country’s recent track and fieldsuccesses.
Track and field coach andjudgeKeneishaHeadley and former West Indies cricketer Reon King were recognized as the Female andMaleSportsOfficialsof the Year, respectively, for their contributions to the d e v e l o p m e n t a n d management of sports in Guyana.
Athletics Association of Guyana: Association of the Year
T h e A t h l e t i c s Association of Guyana (AAG) was awarded Association of the Year, a fitting recognition for an association that had overcome turmoil to ensure its athletes were granted with the opportunities and resourcesneededtoexcelon theinternationalstage.
S w i m m i n g S t a r RaekwonNoelShines While track and field dominated the awards, swimmer Raekwon Noel
Alisson, Diogo Jota, Konstantinos Tsimikas and Alexander-Arnold.
“In general, people only talk about injuries if results aren’t there, so it is good people don’t talk about them,” Slot said. “But the momentyoustarttoloseitis about kickoff times or injuries but nine out of 10 times it is quality of game plan or quality of other team.”
made waves by earning the JuniorSportsmanoftheYear title. Noel’s remarkable performances a
Championship saw him become the first Guyanese swimmer to win five gold medalsattheevent. In addition to breaking four national records, Noel set a new CARIFTA record in the 800m freestyle and narrowly missed breaking the200mbutterflyrecordby lessthanone-hundredthofa second.
(Cricinfo) - Lancashire
have signed Anderson Phillip for the first four monthsofthe2025summer Phillip is expected to be available for 11 County Championship fixtures as wellasthegroupstageofthe T20Blast.
Fast bowler Phillip played three Championship matches at the end of last season, taking 15 wickets at 23.93,butwasunabletohelp Lancashire avoid relegation fromDivisionOne.
“I really enjoyed my spell with Lancashire at the end of last season and I am excitedbytheopportunityto returnforthe2025seasonto spendalongerperiodoftime at Emirates Old Trafford,” Phillipsaid.
“Helping Lancashire returntoDivisionOneatthe first time of asking is my numberonepriorityfornext season and hopefully I can putintheperformanceswith the ball which can help the
Anderson Phillip took 15 wickets in three appearances for Lancashire last season (Getty Images)
teamtoachievethat.
“The standard of firstclass cricket in England is highandascloseasyoucan gettoplayingTestcricket,so I am looking forward to being back next summer, continuing to test myself in those conditions, learning andimprovingmygame.”
Phillip, 28, has played two Tests and five ODIs for WestIndies,themost-recent ofwhichcamein2022.
Lancashire’s director of
cricket performance, Mark Chilton, said: “We were hugely impressed by Anderson’s performances during the final three matches of last season and jumpedattheopportunityto bring him back for a longer spellnextseason.
“Dale[Benkenstein]and I have continually spoken about our desire to add further pace to our bowling attack as we look to win morered-ballmatches.
The inaugural edition of the Rockstone Street-ball Classic will commence this evening at the Pouderoyen Tarmac in West Bank Demerara.
In the opening match at 19:00hrs, Team Family of Mochawillmatchskillswith Bagotstown Warriors, while the second match will pit Agricola against Ballerz Empireat19:50hrs.
In the third contest, the Pouderoyen Brothers will face off against the West SideBallersat20:40hrs.The final match of the night will pit Showstoppers against JettyGunnersat21:30hrs.
The winners of the aforementioned matches willadvancetothesemifinal round, which will be staged onDecember6thatthesame venue.Theevent,whichwill utilize an elimination format, features eight teams battingforover$400,000in cashandprizes.
The winner of the event willpocket$200,000andthe championship trophy, while
thesecond,third,andfourthplace finishers will receive $100,000, $75,000, and $50,000,respectively
Championship, said, “The excitementforthisinaugural championship is palpable becausetheplayersandfans h
commitment and passion in making this a reality They haveimploredusinthepast tocontinuestagingeventsof this nature, which led to the birth of this championship.
West Demerara is a major street-ball community, and we are excited about the p
tournamenthas.Allsystems are in place for an exciting andsafenight.
The players and fans are ready to represent their teams, and all that is left to do is sound the opening whistle.” He further said, “We once again thank the sponsors, Guyana Brewery under the Rockstone brand, a product that has become
ingrainedinthecommunity, for showing trust in staging this event, which has the capacity to become a national success This is simply the beginning of biggerandbetterthingsfrom thisproduct.”
CompleteTournament Fixtures
Quarterfinal round –Friday,November29th
(1): Team Family vs. BagotstownWarriors
(2):Agricola vs. Ballerz Empire
(3): Pouderoyen Brothers vs Westside Ballers
(4): Jetty Ballers vs Showstoppers
SemifinalRound–Friday, December6th (5): Winner of 1 vs. Winnerof2 (6): Winner of 3 vs. Winnerof4 3rdPlace (7): Loser of 5 vs Loser of6
Final (8): Winner of 5 vs. Winnerof6
(GFF) — The Guyana
Football Federation (GFF)’sTechnicalDirector, Bryan Joseph recently handed over key football materials to East Bank Football Association (EBFA) President Orein AngoyaspartoftheGFF’s ongoing efforts to support its ongoing youth football
competitions and development across Guyana. The materials, which included essential equipment for the ongoing U14 Boys League, were presented to President Angoy on behalf of the EBFA Expressing gratitude for the support, Mr Angoy highlighted the significant impact of the contribution on the tournament’s success and the growth of young playersinhisassociation.
“Wearedeeplygrateful to the Guyana Football Federation for their invaluable support in
providing these materials. This contribution will undoubtedly enhance the quality of the U14 Boys League and support the development of football at the grassroots level in our region.
We are committed to utilizing these resources to createopportunitiesforour young players to grow and excel in the sport,” PresidentAngoyremarked.
Duringthepresentation ceremony, Mr Joseph commended the EBFA’s leadership for their proactive approach to y o u t h f o o t b a l l development He stated,
“The Guyana Football Federation is proud to support initiatives like the EBFA U14 Boys League, which align perfectly with our mission to develop football across all levels in Guyana Regional Associations play a critical role in organizing
competitions, especially at the youth and grassroots levels, as they have a constitutional obligation to create opportunities for theirclubsandplayers.
He added that the Federation is committed to supporting these activities, but they must be driven by the leadership of the RegionalAssociations.
We hope that the example being set by the EBFA will inspire other Associationstotakesimilar proactive steps in organizing competitions that nurture and showcase theimmensetalentwehave inGuyana.”
The GFF applauds the EBFA for its unwavering dedicationtoyouthfootball andencouragesfans,clubs, and communities to continue supporting these competitions, which are instrumentalinbuildingthe future of Guyanese football.
(GFF)
Guyana Beverages Inc (GBI) in an effort to contribute to the development of women’s football has partnered with the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) as a sponsor of the Maid Marian WheatUp Women’sCupandendof year tournament slated to kick off on Saturday, November 30 at the Parade Ground.
T h r o u g h t h i s collaboration, GBI will provide its popular Fruta juiceandOasiswaterbrands tofuelplayersandfansalike, ensuring they stay hydrated throughoutthetournament.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Guyana FootballFederationforsuch an important event in the local sports calendar,” said Mr Samuel Arjoon, GBI’s General Manager “Football is a sport that continues to thrive in Guyana, and we’re proud to support the Maid Marian Wheat Up Women’s Cup, which promotes
women’sparticipationinthe g a m e A t G u y a n a Beverages, we understand theimportanceofhydration, andwe’reexcitedtoprovide the players, coaches, and fans with our trusted Fruta and Oasis drinks during the tournament.”
TheMaidMarianWheat Up Women’s Cup is an exciting competition that showcases the talent of female footballers across Guyana. With kick-off games beginning on November 30, 2024, the event promises to be a c e l e b r a t i o n o f sportsmanship, teamwork, and the growing popularity of women’s football in the country
The tournament is expected to draw large crowds and will be a significant step forward in thedevelopmentofwomen’s footballinGuyana. Guyana Beverages Inc. was keen to note that it remains committed to supporting sports, health,
and wellness initiatives that positively impact communities across the country As a long-time partnerinpromotinghealthy hydration, the company’s sponsorship of the t
reinforcesitscommitmentto supporting athleticism and the well-being of Guyanese people.
Commenting on the partnership,Presidentofthe GFF, Mr. Wayne Forde, noted “We are deeply grateful to Guyana Beverages Inc for their investment in women’s football.
Supporting female athletes is not just about fostering talent—it’s about addressing the historic underi
recognizing the immense valuetheybringtothegame andourcommunities.”
He referred to the partnershipasatestamentto the transformative power of investing in underserved
Wakenaam Masters will face Parika Defenders in a T20 softball encouter on SaturdaynightatMeerZorgCricketground, Wakenaam.
Wakenaam Masters will be led by Mustak Mohamed and include Wazir Khan, Satnarine Sahadeo, Khemraj Surujpaul, HeeraSukram,NazeerMohamed,Navishaul Pooran, Saga Jadookool, Oyono Sampson, Kennard Lewis, Abdool Salim and Vijay Persaud.
ParikaDefenderswillhavethelikesofK. Persaud,OswaldChandler,DevananKanan, PrexAslam,S.Mohamed,ImtiazSadiekand UcilArmstrong.Thegameissettobowloff at6:30pm.
Earlier, U19 male and female cricketers on the island will contest a 15-over mixed team affair which is expected to commence at4:00pm.
The matches are being sponsored by MustakConstructionandSatnarineSahadeo.
athletes, and noted the Federation’s excitement to work with Guyana Beverages Inc. to inspire young girls and strengthen
With kick-off games beginning on November 30, 2024, the event promises to be a celebration of sportsmanship, teamwork, and the growing popularity of women’s football in the country
the future of women’s footballinGuyana. Astheexcitementbuilds forthetournament,fansand players alike can look forward to an action-packed seriesofmatches,madeeven betterbytherefreshingtaste and health benefits of Fruta andOasisdrinks.
R
k (Guyana) Limited in collaboration with Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) have successfully completed another year of theRepublicBank‘Fivefor Fun’ProgrammeinGuyana. The national festival finals were hosted at the Queen’s College Grounds featuring the primary school county champions from Berbice, DemeraraandBerbice.
The round-robin format featuring five overs per side saw St Theresa’s Primary (Berbice Champions), Sparta Primary (Essequibo Champions) and Lenora Primary (Demerara Champions) battled for victory in a safe and playercentredenvironmentdesigned around the principles of fun, inclusion and equality These elementsresonatedevenmore on finals day as it coincided with the commemoration of Universal Children’s Day St Theresa’sPrimaryemergedas the champion school in Guyana for 2024, playing unbeatenatthenationalfinals
Participants fostered the values of teamwork, mental focus, tactical awareness and physical development whilst demonstrating highlevel cricketing skills in the rudiments of the game: batting, bowling, fielding andwicket-keeping.
Among the attendees at the final event were
Republic Bank (Guyana) Ltd Managing Director, Mr Stephen Grell, Director of Sport Mr Steve Ninvalle, EducationOfficerMr Saeed Zameen, Secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board and CWI Director Mr. Ronald Willams and CWI Project Officer Mr. Brendon Ramlal. Mr. Stephen Grell, Managing Director Republic Bank (Guyana) Ltd stated: “Thistournamenthasbeenan extraordinary showcase of youthful energy and sporting potential Fromallreports,the fast paced, fun and engaging format of the game have captivated not just the players, but also parents, teachersandcoaches.
In the Caribbean and especially in Guyana, cricket ismorethanjustasportit’sa passion that runs deep in our veins RepublicBankisproud
tosupportthisinitiativewhich goes beyond just simply playingagame Ourgoalisto nurture talents, spark interest and develop the necessary skills that could transform these young players into future cricket legends”
The Republic Bank ‘Five for Fun’ Programme is supportedthroughapartnership with both the Ministry of Education,andtheMinistryof Culture,Youth and Sports in a collaborative effort to further strengthenyouthdevelopment
Mr Steve Ninvalle Director of Sport in the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport expressed congratulations to everyone who participated in the competition as they’re no loserssinceeveryonegained someexperiencefromtheFive for Fun Tournament He
laudedRepublicBankfortheir investment in sport and fulfillingtheircorporatesocial responsibility and indicated that this is the result when publicandprivatesectorsjoin hands. He also mentioned the government’s focus on enhancing over 400 grounds across the country thereby providingthefacilitiesforsuch activities Mr Ninvalle also commentedthathe’senthused that so many females are participating and its important for everything we do now to havegenderbalance
The Republic Bank ‘Five for Fun’ programme forms part of Republic Bank’s ‘PowertoMakeaDifference Programme’andcontinuesto strengthen the base of CWI’s developmental pathway and it’s ‘Future Stars’ programme ” (Republic BankLtdPressRelease)
HOBART,Tasmania–In a groundbreaking initiative to develop the next generation of West Indies women’s cricket stars, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has launched a new player development program in Tasmania,Australia.
Four promising Under25 players Jannillea Glasgow, Cherry-Ann Fraser, Shawnisha Hector, and Kate Wilmott — are currently honing their skills in the region’s premier cricket competition, marking a significant step forward in women’s cricket development.
The program, conceived by West Indies Women’s Head Coach Shane Deitz andAssistantCoachDamien Wright,hasbeenintegrating young talents into Tasmania’s premier firstgradecricketcompetition.
Glasgow and Wilmott representNewTownCricket Club, while Fraser and Hector represent Clarence Cricket Club. Fraser also appearedforClarenceinthe men’s third-grade competition, while Wilmott tookawicketforNewTown in a match against North Hobart.
In New Town’s sevenrun win over Clarence in a women’s T20 game, Glasgowscoredanunbeaten 70, while Hector remained notouton66forClarence.
The initiative also provides an opportunity for these emerging cricketers to train alongside professional athletes, including members of the Women’s Big Bash
League(WBBL)Hurricanes team.
Assistant coach Wright, who is accompanying the players in Hobart, was complimentary of their effortssofar,saying,
“This is a wonderful initiative that combines high-performance training with valuable match experience.
Our players are getting extensive batting time and taking on leadership roles, which is crucial for their development They’re training four to five times a week, using world-class facilities and gaining exposuretodifferentplaying conditions.”
He added, “It’s been a great opportunity for the girls to open the batting and play in the high to middle order
They are being called upon to score runs, face the new ball, and perform with theballaswell.
There are a lot of positives, and hopefully, it cancontinue.”
The comprehensive program includes bi-weekly training sessions with the WBBL Hobart Hurricanes, regulargymworkatpremier facilities, including Ninja Stadium,formerlyknownas Bellerive Oval, and participationinbothT20and 50-overformatsofthegame.
This initiative is strategically timed, with players preparing for international commitments inIndiathisDecemberanda home series against BangladeshinJanuary
In a celebration of athletic excellence, track and field emerged as the dominant force at the 2023 National Sports Awards, held last evening on the picturesque lawns of CastellaniHouse.
Hosted by the National Sports Commission, the event honoured Guyana’s top athletes, coaches, and officials for their outstanding performances over the past year, with several history-making moments taking centre stage.
Emanuel Archibald: Sportsman-of-the-Year
Sprinter Emanuel Archibald was crowned Sportsman-of-the-Year, a well-deserved recognition following his groundbreaking achievements at the Pan American Games and the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games.
At the CAC Games in San Salvador, Archibald etchedhisnameintherecord booksbywinninggoldinthe men’s100m—becomingthe first Guyanese athlete to
accomplish this feat since the event’s inception in 1926. Archibald’s success continued at the Pan Am Games, where he secured a bronze medal in the 100m, which marked another milestone, as he became the first Guyanese male to medalintheeventatthePan Am Games, further solidifyinghislegacyasone ofGuyana’sfinestsprinters.
Jasmine Abrams: Sportswoman-of-the-Year
On the women’s side, sprinter Jasmine Abrams
earnedtheSportswoman-ofthe-Yeartitleafterherstellar performance at the Pan Am Games Abrams made history by claiming a silver medalinthewomen’s100m, becomingthefirstGuyanese womantomedalintheevent since the Games began in 1951. Tianna Springer: JuniorSportswoman-of-theYear
At just 16 years old, Tianna Springer was named JuniorSportswoman-of-theYear after an extraordinary season that saw her
dominate regional and internationalcompetitions. Springerclinchedgoldin the U20 400m at the South American Championships, settinganewGamesrecord, and added a bronze in the 200m.
She also won the Girls U17 400m at the 2023
Raekwon Noel had a fantastic 2023 photo name: RAEKWON
CARIFTA Games in The Bahamas. Her crowning achievement came at the 2023Youth Commonwealth Games, where she became the first Guyanese athlete to win a gold medal at the event, triumphing in the 400m. Springer also anchored Guyana’s 4x400m
mixed relay team to gold, breaking the Youth Commonwealth Games record with a time of 3:22 07, surpassing the previous record set by Australiain2017. Team of the Year: 4x400mMixedRelaySquad
The ele
ying performance of Guyana’s 4x400m m
lay team—comprising Malachi Austin, Javon Roberts, Narissa McPherson, and Tianna Springer earned themtheprestigiousTeamof theYearaward. Their record-breaking performance at the 2023 Youth Commonwealth Games in Trinidad and Tobago shattered the previous Games record of 3:25.08, set by Australia in 2017. Withablazingtimeof 3:22.07, they not only won the gold medal but also etchedtheirnamesinhistory
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