The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Friday, July 19 – 02:30h-04:00h and Saturday, July 20 –03:30h-05:00h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Friday, July 19 – 15:10h-16:40h and Saturday, July 20 –15:55h-17:35h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery showers are expected to prevail during the day and at night, with early-morning and late-afternoon sunshine. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to South SouthWesterly between 1.34 metres and 3.12 metres.
High Tide: 15:13h reaching a maximum height of 2.34 metres.
Low Tide: 08:42h and 20:59h reaching minimum heights of 0.75 metre and 0.88 metre.
Government to better recognise outstanding Guyanese stalwarts – President Ali
…as Ashton Chase Inc launched
The Guyana Government is moving to correct the “poor job” being done to give adequate recognition to all those who played a significant role in the past to shape Guyana’s political, social and economic landscape, paving the way for the country to be where it is today.
This was according to President Dr Irfaan Ali on Thursday evening as he delivered the feature address at the launch of Ashton Chase Inc. – a not-for-profit entity established to celebrate the life, work, and ideals of the late Guyanese stalwart Ashton Chase, SC, OE.
“I acknowledged this before, we do a poor job in this country at keeping and recognising those who contribute significantly to our country,” the Head of State admitted.
On this note, President Ali disclosed that he has instructed Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr, to convert Parliament Square into a space where “…we celebrate all of these people in a very public place”.
However, the key to this, the Guyanese Leader posited, is to instil this information and other important historical facts into the respective minds of young children so that they can then become the custodians.
women… then we will never be in a place where our history will be forgotten, or people who contributed so significantly will be forgotten,” the Head of State asserted.
Turning his attention to Chase, a celebrated legal luminary and champion of the working class who passed away on July 10, 2023, at the age of 96, President Ali noted that the Guyanese stalwart’s ideals remained relevant today and would continue to do so for generations to come.
These ideals include restoring the purity of the political vocation, protecting the covenant of democracy, upholding the rights and aspirations of workers, ensuring
of this organisation. It is his ideals that must set the agenda and mission of this organisation – nothing else…
“I pledge my government’s support for [Ashton Chase Inc’s] work in being true to the ideals of a great Guyanese. Nationalistic, patriotic, and champion of the working class, may the ideals of Ashton Chase continue to inspire generations,” President Ali stated.
“[We have to look at] how we instil the history of Guyana in the minds of our children, and that is the bigger task. That is the more important task because if our children, and us, know the history of our country, then all of us will be custodians of that history and all of us will carry the weight of that history...
A book that was written on the life of the late Ashton Chase that would be resold by the not-for-profit organisation set up in his name
that the law is of service to people and to the cause of justice, and the value of personal integrity in public life.
“And if we instil the history of our country, and the history of these great men and
“His ideals set the mission and the agenda for this non-profit organisation launched in his honour and under this name… It is his ideals, his values, and his standards that form the basis
Meanwhile, Chase’s daughter –Pauline, in recalling the journey to the establishment of the organisation, explained that her family wanted an avenue to honour, pay tribute, and continue her father’s life’s work.
“Nothing seemed sufficient to capture him,” she stated, adding that they ruled out a foundation and a trust – both limited in scope for what they intend to do – and eventually settled on the formation of a company.
According to Pauline, an Attorney-at-Law as well, “The vehicle of a company gives the necessary depth and flexibility… Ashton Chase was an institution within himself and it was only fitting that the name of the body in his memory reflected that… And so, Ashton Chase Inc was born – a not-
for-profit to promote his life, work, and ideals.”
With Chase having penned at least eight books during his illustrious life, the first order of business for Ashton Chase Inc would be a reprint of these texts that range from topics such as law, politics and current affairs as well as updating editions, especially the law text.
Proceeds from the sale of these books and other income to the not-for-profit entity will go towards funding scholarships in the field of labour law.
Some of the books authored by Chase include “The Law of Workmen’s Compensation” (1963); “A History of Trade Unionism in Guyana” (1966); “Industrial Law” (1974); “Trade Union Law in the Caribbean” (1976), and “Industrial Relations” (1981).
The late Ashton Chase along with Dr Cheddi Jagan, Janet Jagan, and Jocelyn Hubbard formed the Political Affairs Committee, which was the precursor of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in 1950.
Called the father of labour and industrial relations law in Guyana, a politician, a barrister, an Attorney-at-Law, as well as an author, Chase was the country’s first Labour, Industry, and Commerce Minister and was responsible for piloting legislation permitting the recognition of trade unions based on a majority vote of employees. (G8)
Guyana's recent tabling of the Family Violence Bill, No. 11 of 2024, in the National Assembly marks a significant stride towards modernising and strengthening protections against domestic violence. This Bill, set to replace the 1996 Domestic Violence Act, not only updates antiquated laws, but expands the scope of protection to include previously marginalised groups, and broadens the definitions of abuse and family relationships.
First and foremost, the bill's inclusion of protections for couples in same-sex relationships is a commendable step towards ensuring equality before the law. Historically, LGBTQ+ individuals have faced discrimination and inadequate legal safeguards in many jurisdictions, often being overlooked or outright excluded from legal protections. By explicitly extending protections to all couples, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, Guyana demonstrates a commitment to human rights and equality under the law.
Moreover, the expansion of definitions within the bill is crucial in addressing the complexities of modern familial dynamics and forms of abuse. Recognising that abuse can take various forms beyond physical violence — such as emotional, psychological and economic abuse — the bill ensures that victims are protected comprehensively. By acknowledging these broader definitions, Guyana acknowledges the multifaceted nature of domestic violence, and empowers authorities to intervene effectively in diverse situations.
Additionally, the bill's expanded definition of family members to include not only spouses, but also former spouses, cohabiting partners, and other relatives, recognizes the diverse structures of contemporary families. This ensures that individuals facing violence or abuse within various familial contexts can seek legal recourse and protection without facing undue obstacles.
Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandall, SC, has said that, after three decades, the law needed to be overhauled, and we agree with his statement.
He said: “In (those) three decades, we were able to detect a number of deficiencies, we were able to identify a number of loopholes and a number of shortcomings.”
The bill is “much improved” and “far more comprehensive,” he added, noting that a larger category of persons can now get protection under the Family Violence Bill, as opposed to the Domestic Violence Act.
Critically, the Family Violence Bill, No 11 of 2024, also enhances provisions for support services and assistance to victims, reflecting a holistic approach to combatting domestic violence. Accessible support services are essential in empowering victims to break free from abusive situations and rebuild their lives. By prioritising victim support alongside legal measures, Guyana has set a precedent for comprehensive care and rehabilitation for those affected by family violence.
While the bill represents a significant advancement, its effective implementation and enforcement would be crucial in realising its full potential. Adequate training for law enforcement officials and social workers is imperative to ensuring victims receive the support and justice they deserve; and public awareness campaigns can play a pivotal role in changing societal attitudes towards domestic violence, thereby encouraging victims to seek help without the fear of stigma or reprisal.
Introduction of the Family Violence Bill, No. 11 of 2024, marks a moment in Guyana's efforts to combat domestic violence and protect vulnerable individuals. By embracing inclusivity, expanding definitions, and enhancing support services, Guyana not only upholds human rights, but paves the way for a safer and more just society. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it is incumbent upon lawmakers to champion its passage and ensure its effective implementation.
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, who also holds the portfolio of Public Service
call from the outgoing Resident Coordinator of the
Dr Singh thanked Oruç for her unwavering dedication and support to fostering strong Guyana-UN relations during her three-year tenure, and also, on behalf of the Government, expressed appreciation for the tremendous work she has done, which allowed for the acceleration of several projects and programmes with the UN across several sectors in Guyana
Minister McCoy rubbishes Olive Sampson’s claims of affiliation to IDPADA-G
Dear Editor, Olive Cannings Sampson, Chief Executive Officer of the now disgraced and virtually defunct International Decade for People of African Descent Assembly-Guyana (IDPADA-G), has written to newspaper editors to brazenly assert exclusivity for the ‘sister’ political organization of IDPADA-G, the African Cultural & Development Association (ACDA), regarding emancipation celebrations, and to continue attempting to fraudulently arrogate to herself and IDPADA-G the right to pronounce and make national representation for and on behalf of Guyanese of African descent. It is therefore now more than apparent that the management of this organisation has cocooned itself into a shameless rhetorical state of denial about its fall from grace, and, consequentially, its revoked locus standi to continue meaningful representation of Guyanese of African descent.
Guyanese at home and abroad bore witness to the
shocking revelations, a few years ago, of IDPADA-G’s self-inflicted unravelling of its incestuous mismanagement and misappropriation of public funds amounting to more than a billion dollars of taxpayers' money at the expense of dozens of community-based organisations which were genuinely positioned to facilitate the empowerment of their various communities through what should have been equitable sharing of those public funds.
IDPADA-G hopes Guyanese would forget the embarrassing spectacle of learning how a small cabal of greedy and entitled individuals at the helm of the organization siphoned the members’ money into a private company structured with vulgar emoluments and other benefits swirling only in that circle of Afro-demigods, and allowing only for crumbs and trickles to fall slavishly at the feet of member groups; often, none at all.
Those criminal revelations, all of Guyana would recall, resulted in a rebellious exodus of the vast majority of member groups
from the wretched, corrupt halls of Mama IDPADA-G; demanding instead that their Government engage them directly and help revive their unshakable commitment to genuine representation of their respective constituent communities across the country. Their message was loud and unambiguous: for the Government to periodically release the funds committed for the extended International Decade directly among them, to finally allow for transparent and credible adumbration of the cause for upliftment and empowerment beyond what is embodied in the Government’s national transformational agenda. How ironic and utterly disrespectful is it therefore that, having unshackled themselves from the corrupt tyranny of Cannings Sampson and Alexander et al, the new Association of People of African Descent (APAD) is being subjected to continuous public lynching by IDPADA-G; this time around for where, when, and how it chooses to carry out the wishes of its members for the celebra -
tion of emancipation 2024. As if it previously were not clear enough, allow me to reiterate the Government’s position concerning the deployment of public funds and support for the vision of the United Nations General Assembly regarding the deserving extension of the ‘Decade of People of African Descent’; recognition and unwavering support will flow unabated to those organisations genuinely engaged in representing Guyanese of African Descent, and whose ethos is NOT self-serving, incestuous, and corrupt. Consequently, the Government’s support for observances and celebrations of the 186th emancipation in Guyana is assured for the dozens of community-based organisations that have boldly and judiciously unshackled themselves from the disgraced IDPADA-G.
Sincerely,
Honourable Kwame McCoy, MP Minister for
Information and Public Affairs, Office of the Prime Minister
Minister, on Wednesday received a farewell courtesy
United Nations (UN) in Guyana, Yesim Oruç.
PPP/C all ready for ‘fair and free’ elections
Dear Editor,
It is most wholesome to read that Prime Minister Brigadier (ret'd) Mark Phillips has met with the Carter Center team in Guyana for pre-election evaluation. This is a great promissory move with the portent that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic would again commit to ‘fair and free’ elections, and are not going to stymie transparency or independent external observers.
The news reported that the PM welcomed a delegation from the Carter Center, and discussed the center’s pre-election assessment mission in Guyana with an emphasis on the aims to evaluate the necessity of election observers ahead of the 2025 Regional and General Elections…reaffirming the Government of Guyana’s steadfast commitment to democracy and the rule of law.
As was evident in 2020, the PPP/C is all about openness to international electoral observer missions, and about maintaining transpar-
ent and fair electoral practices.
This takes me back to the horrors of 2020, when it was so obvious (and observed as well) that there was blatant collusion and collaboration between senior GECOM (Guyana Elections Commission) officials to divert votes to the APNU+AFC (A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change) instead of safeguarding and preserving the integrity of the electoral system.
Later, after the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the events of the 2020 General and Regional Elections, this was ratified, as it was conclusively established that there were shockingly brazen attempts by Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO) Roxanne Myers, and Returning Officer (RO) Clairmont Mingo to derail and corrupt the statutorily prescribed procedure for the counting, ascertaining,
and tabulation of votes of the March 2nd election, as well as the true declaration of the results of that election; and that they did so (as was stated by the CoI) “to put it in the unvarnished language of the ordinary man, to steal the (said) election.”
Editor, let me quote:
“The (independent and transparent Presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI)) Report found that Lowenfield blatantly made decisions and employed procedures in direct contradiction of the law and the will of the people. The findings revealed, too, that GECOM staffers ignored specific instructions from the court, used materials that were illegal and/or manipulated, and sided with APNU+AFC agents to berate observers whenever objections were raised”.
I recall the drama. It was ludicrous. Maybe there was the thought that APNU/AFC could have taken Guyana back to pre-Carter days leading up to 1992. In fact, in a 1980 report
by Charles de Florimonte, “Observers charge Guyana election rigged”, it was clearly publicised that “An international team of observers found 'massive' evidence of widespread fraud in the Guyanese elections that were expected to strengthen the power of (then) incumbent President Forbes Burnham.
As per the team of observers, they noted, 'We conclude that the worst fears expressed by the Guyanese people regarding the violations of the electoral process have been confirmed,' said Lord Eric Avebury, the British head of the observer team. A helpless Dr. Cheddi Jagan, gracious even in the heist, as head of the opposition Peoples Progressive Party, said, 'I am certain we would have won at least a simple majority had not the ‘army intervened again by seizing the ballot boxes.'
So, I am most glad, and I feel the joy of many that, in 2020, in utter desperation, the APNU/AFC Coalition,
really a disguised PNC, could not repeat the act of stealing the ballot boxes, or even come up with fictitious figures.
As a pertinent footnote, I remind all that the triumvir of Keith Lowenfield, Roxanne Myers, and Clairmont Mingo are before the court. I also hope that the President would not call any 2025 election until the 2020 election cases are completed. This vital visit from the Carter Center has precluded many negatives, as there were engagements with various stakeholders, including Opposition members (please note that), private sector representatives, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), and civil society organisations. This kind of comprehensive engagement has garnered great confidence in the pre-election landscape in Guyana.
The reason is that the Carter Center will be instrumental (yet again) “in determining the need for international observers to monitor the
upcoming 2025 elections, thereby contributing to the credibility and transparency of the electoral process in Guyana.”
Again, going back to the pre-1992 era, it was the norm for election rigging in favour of the then-ruling People's National Congress. These were to ensure overwhelming majority triumphs to facilitate Forbes Burnham's determination “to cling to power at all costs.”
Those days are gone. No more can there be certain “senior GECOM officials” abandoning all need for neutrality and impartiality, and demonstrating a bias for any party…”
I do warn that there are quite a few who are still with that mindset. Just this year, in February, Hamilton Green stepped up and stated, “I say we should keep rigging to save us from these devils” (meaning the PPP). What a Satan!
Sincerely, Hargesh B Singh
Hindus celebrate Guru Purnima
Dear Editor,
The rich legacy of Hindu culture is perfected, preached, and propagated in the way of life as practised not only by those following the tradition from birth, but also by those who align themselves with the customs and teachings that have evolved from the ancient days of the rishis, munis, saints, sages, and sadhus to the modern days of yogis, swamis, gurus, pandits and devotees.
With over a billion followers scattered throughout the world, it is regarded as the third-largest religion, and the oldest -- being over five thousand years old. Its religious texts are scribed in the “mother of all languages”, Sanskrit, which influenced other languages like Latin and Greek, and have survived the vicissitudes of time.
There are numerous events and occasions to commemorate Hindu systemic observances; these bear religious and cultural significance attesting to the historical and sociological habits of ancestral upbringing. Apart from the popular Holi, Diwali, and the various anniversaries of manifestations, emphasis is also placed on rituals depicting respect, regard, and reverence, the auspiciousness of Rakhi being an example.
Another pertinent and prime precedent is the conventional ceremony of Guru Purnima, which will be realized on July 21st, a Full Moon, also called Buck or Thunder Moon. It is celebrated not only in India, but also in Nepal, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and other places where Indian descendants reside, including
Europe, the Americas, the Caribbean, and Guyana.
The much-embraced Hindu festival of Guru Purnima is celebrated to honour the relationship between teachers and disciples. On this day, the students, or disciples (chailas), worship their teachers, guides, gurus and mentors. They thank and pay homage and gratitude to their Gurus for guiding them through their childhood and formative years, and for carrying them to open their minds to see the light of knowledge.
Guru Purnima is also known as Vyasa Purnima, and is observed as the birth anniversary of Veda Vyasa, a great sage and author of the Mahabharata. This festival is also celebrated as Gyaan Purnima owing to its association with knowledge and teachings.
Guru Purnima is celebrated not only by Hindus, but by Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists. Lord Shiva is considered to be the first Guru (Adi Guru), and the Jains symbolize it as “Treenok Guru Purnima”, the day when Lord Shiva transmitted the knowledge of Yoga to the Saptarishis. The Sikhs demarcate this day to pay obeisance to their Ten Spiritual Gurus. The Buddhists consider this day as Buddha Purnima, the day Buddha gained enlightenment and delivered his first sermon at Sarnath.
‘Gur’ means darkness, and ‘Ru’ means that which is opposite to darkness. So, a ‘Guru’ is one who drives out fear and ignorance and replaces the darkness with light.
Paramhansa Ramakrishna opinioned,
“He alone is the genuine teacher who is illumined by the light of true knowledge.”
The Guru/Shishya relationship shares a rich cultural and friendly history, which reflects a unison that is not only family-oriented but, above that, a student and tutor companionship tailoring a fine legacy of sound religious teachings, deep philosophical discussions, articulated conversations on unlimited topics, and enjoying the company of a very insightful personality who may always give sound advice and positive guidance.
All these events and opportunities go beyond academic instruction, and may afford a realization of spiritual awakening and provide the knowledge that can mould a person to be knowledgeable, honest, sincere, and humane; one capable of facing all worldly challenges on this competitive planet.
The Guru acts as a role model, and transmits to the student knowledge which moulds that person to face the world. The student is expected to trust and surrender him/herself while respecting and serving the teacher. A student may cordially challenge the teacher, as Buddha questioned his Guru about ascetic practices; the 15th Century poet Kabir inquired about societal norms, and Swami Vivekananda queried rituals.
The Guru-Shishya custom (parampara) knits a spiritual passage. Reference can be made to Lord Krishna and Arjuna in the Mahabharata, Shri Ram and Hanuman ji in
the Ramayana, and Lord Shankaracharya and Vasishta.
According to the Vedas, the Hindu life is structurally ordained into four phases (Asramas), each affording the individual transition into specific aspirations. With the expectation of surviving for one hundred years, the first hurdle is the student (Brahmacharya) asrama, the second block is the householder (Grihastha) asrama, the third juncture is the forest/dweller walker, hermit, social worker (Vanaprastha) asrama; and the final leg is the renunciation (Sannyasa) asrama.
The life cycle induces the products of education, growth, maturity and decline, to complete the birth and death concept.
In the modern world, which is materialistically entrenched, this cultural and social mosaic may not be practically nuanced for most, and the reality of aspiring with different goals and objectives to satisfy one’s lifestyle fundamentally satiates a variable pathway in this technological era and peer persuasions; which influence a division, diversifying scriptural prescriptions from societal perceptions.
There is need to remember that a successful Guru-Shishya pair embodies sincerity, unwavering dedication, and mutual respect. The Guru-Shishya relationship now incorporates bridging customs and tradition with modern practices and ways. Navigating these challenges requires dedication, innovation, and a commitment to student growth. The Guru-Shishya
relationship is dynamic, evolving, and deeply sentimental, if not personal. This relationship may blossom into a lifetime fruition.
On this Guru Purnima, not only Hindus, but all may reach out to your teacher and express your appreciation.
Om Om Om gurur brahm? gurur vi?? ur gurur devo mahe? vara? guru?
s?k??t para? brahma tasmai ?r?-gurave nama? To that Guru who is Brahm, the Creator, Vi??u, the Maintainer, and ?iva, the dissolver. To that Guru who is the direct experience of Brahman, salutations to that great guru.
Yours respectfully, Jai Lall
FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2024
Page Foundation
Solving equations by multiplication and division cont’d
You can solve equations with unknown numbers by multiplication and division.
Examples:
Problem: (w )/8 = 24
Since (w )/8 = w x (1 )/8, you multiply the left side of the equation by 8. Then you would have w x 1, which is equal to w alone. You can multiply the left side by 8 alone only if you also multiply the right side by 8.
Step 1 : Multiply both sides by the same number: w = 24 x 8
Step 2 : Multiply: 24 x 8 = 192. So w = 192
Problem: 4p = 16. Solve for p
Now you divide the left by 4 to get p. You must also divide the right side by 4.
In this fun and easy engineering science experiment, we’re going to collapse a bridge.
Materials:
Printer paper
Straw
Plastic cup
Two equal-size cans or cups
Water
Instructions:
Start at the short end of the paper and make a crease straight across about one quarter of an inch wide.
Using the first crease as a guide, fold an equal-sized crease back.
Continue going back and forth until the entire sheet is folded and resembles an accordion.
Find an area outside or that is easy to clean up as some water will spill during the next phase of the experiment.
Set the paper across the cans or cups in such a way that it forms a bridge.
Now fill the plastic cup partially with water and place it on the bridge.
Dip the straw in the water and plug the end.
Release a few drops of water from the straw onto the bridge until the structure fails.
How it works:
When the paper gets wet from the drops of water, the cellulose fibres in the paper start to break down and separate more easily. This causes the paper to become weak and unable to hold the weight of the cup of water. This demonstrates that some materials may have certain strengths until other factors are introduced.
Make this a science project: Try this experiment with different types of paper. Try this experiment with aluminium foil. Try adding small amounts of sand instead of water until the bridge collapses. (sciencefun.org)
In the sweltering interim my stepmother pulling her body out of the rusted wheelbarrow wearing the skin of a great grandmother one leg over the rim the other steeped in noonday ash my mother’s ballad wicking at her brow tumbling into the nearby bed prepared just for this moment bushels of melon leaves picked for the monthly shipment to China. Kuv niam cov lus lost again traversing again into the earth unto a most fluid exile my stepmother weeping into the mirage of the hissing coyote. Here at the farm where we are absent from dying I give up and reenter the valley. What more can I see?
Siv Yis braving the mountains the dust stirring above my feet my fist a glowing peach.
Source: Poetry (January 2021)
WORD SEARCH:
No internal pressure to alter course of corruption probe against Brutus – VP Jagdeo
...criticises vilification of Policemen for political gains
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has reaffirmed the Government’s confidence in the ability of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) to investigate allegations of financial irregularity levelled against Deputy Commissioner of Police (ag) Calvin Brutus, reassuring that there will be no pressure in changing the course of the probe.
He made these remarks at a press conference held at the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Freedom House Headquarters on Thursday, where he spoke about efforts by his government to build the capacity of local institutions to professionally handle matters such as these.
“There are allegations of corruption against Brutus. He is on leave and SOCU has been ordered to do the investigation… And I can say to you that at SOCU, there’d be no pressure by anyone in the Police Force because the President [Dr Irfaan Ali] himself is looking into this matter and all these matters. There’d be no pressure by anyone, internally, to alter the course
of this investigation or any other investigations of malpractices anywhere in the country or the Police Force,” Jagdeo stated.
After Top Cop, Clifton Hicken, initially denied last week that there was any investigation being carried out against Brutus, the Guyana Police Force disclosed the following day that Brutus has requested to go on leave to facilitate the probe.
It is alleged that Brutus reportedly deposited $15 million into his account at the Police Credit Union on December 15, 2023. The money was allegedly re-
turned to him the following day and the source of funds was given as contributions from before, during, and after his wedding.
Last Friday, Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn, expressed concerns about the development, telling reporters that the SOCU – the arm of the GPF that deals with white-collar crime – will conduct a “full and complete” investigation. He added that the outcome of that probe will guide the way forward.
Meanwhile, these allegations against Brutus come on the heels of the Police Force, earlier this month, announcing a shake-up of some senior officers – a move that saw Brutus being removed as Deputy Commissioner Administration and put as Head of the Special Branch.
At the time, Commissioner Hicken had explained that the rotation of senior officers is a management tool that is used to create and foster efficiency in an organisation.
Nevertheless, VP Jagdeo’s statement on Thursday about the Government’s confidence in SOCU comes on the heel of
"Crab" wanted for attempted murder of 6-year-old Charlestown boy
One day after the Guyana Police Force (GPF) issued a wanted bulletin for Marlon Marcus, also known as ‘Miceman,’ in connection with the attempted murder of six-year-old Jeremiah Gustave, it has issued a second bulletin for Odelle Garnette also called ‘Crab’ for the same crime.
Garnette’s last known address is East Ruimveldt, Georgetown.
The shooting occurred on July 9 at around 19:45h outside Jeremiah’s home on Charles Street, Charlestown. Jeremiah, a pupil at Smith Memorial Primary School, sustained a gunshot wound to the head
while standing next to his 39-year-old mother, a food vendor.
Reports are that the suspect approached on a black motorcycle and fired four shots aimed at a man known as ‘Crab’, who was nearby the child and his mother. ‘Crab’ managed to escape unharmed, but Jeremiah was struck by a bullet and collapsed.
Gustave’s mother, Keisha Gustave, transported him to a city hospital, where he has undergone two emergency surgeries and remains on life support.
Police recovered two 9mm spent shells at the scene.
In an interview with Guyana Times, Keisha re-
counted the harrowing incident, explaining that she initially mistook the gunfire for fireworks. It was only when Jeremiah called out to her that she found him in a pool of blood, shot through the temple with the bullet lodged at the back of his head.
She expressed her devastation and is calling for justice for her innocent son, hoping for the swift arrest of the suspect.
Anyone with information on Odelle Garnette also called ‘Crab’ whereabouts is urged to contact the police at 232-0313, 225-8196, 2256976, or the nearest police station.
Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton, calling for an external agency to investigate this corruption allegation against Brutus.
However, Jagdeo called out Norton over the duplicity being shown in this Brutus matter when similar allegations surfaced against senior police officers under the PNC-led APNU/AFC regime, and the probes were done internally by the GPF.
Moreover, the Vice President lamented against vilifying police officers, especially for political gains.
“We don’t want to vilify policemen too because somehow people believe it’s an open season on policemen. A lot of them do a great job and they are hard-working people serving this country. And we must not, for politics or ratings or to get a good newspaper article, vilify peo-
ple in the police force, and sometimes that is what is seen… You can openly discuss these things without vilifying all the policemen who are there, saying they are all engaged in… corruption,” Jagdeo asserted.
In light of the allegation of financial impropriety against the senior cop, Minister Benn on Tuesday called for comprehensive reforms to combat corruption in the Police Force.
Addressing attendees at the Force's 185th Anniversary Symposium, the Home Affairs Minister stressed the need for improved and honest practices to ensure financial integrity with the GPF.
“We want new, accountable policing. We want new and improved and honest work done. We want to see that the paper trail is not fraudulent… If mon-
ies go to places where they should not go, it means there is massive collusion and corruption… There will be and they’ve started reviews and investigations and audits in relation to the Guyana Police Force and also in relation to the other two agencies [Guyana Fire Service and Guyana Prisons Service].” (G-8)
Injured: Jeremiah Gustave
Wanted: Odelle Garnette, also called "Crab"
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
Deputy Commissioner Calvin Brutus
Mohameds defamation case High Court orders "Guyanese Critic", "They Break News" to pay $52M
ocial media talk
Sshow host, Mikhil Rodrigues also known as the “Guyanese Critic” and the “They Break News” entity was on Thursday ordered by the High Court to pay $52 million to businessmen Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed in relation to a defamation case filed against him.
The ruling was handed down by Justice Nigel Niles who ordered Rodrigues and his “They Break News” com-
pany to pay damages totaling $22.5 million along with punitive damages of $3.5 million each to the businessmen.
In breaking down the payments, Rodrigues has to pay $7.5 million for defamation committed on February 17, 2024, another $7.5 million for defamation committed on March 1, 2024, and a further $7.5 million for defamation committed on March 14, 2024. Rodrigues and his com-
pany were also ordered to pay the Mohameds $250,000 each in Court costs.
Further, the Judge also granted a permanent injunction, restraining Rodrigues and “They Break News”, whether by themselves, their servants, and or agents from uttering, repeating, posting, printing, publishing, sharing, reproducing, broadcasting, or otherwise disseminating either by video, audio broadcast, print, social media, or
by other electronic means, the offending words, utterances, statements and publications of words, utterances statements or publications similar to those made in the offending broadcasts.
It was reported that the Mohameds had filed a $200 million defamation lawsuit against Rodrigues and “They Break News” through their Attorneys Poonai and Poonai.
What’s going on… …elections-wise?
Your Eyewitness is kinda pleased as to how matters are turning out, from where it was just a few months ago for the PNC. As he’s been stressing for two years, he has no skin in the (PNC) game, per se – just that Guyana’s long-term success is totally dependent on us having a successful two-party system. In divided societies, if ANY one party feels it has got the majority of votes locked up, expect that party to start behaving big and bad, even to its own supporters. That’s how it is with power, baby!! It’s an aphrodisiac for all sortsa things!!
So, here it is that Aubrey Norton had been seen as a lame duck after he refused to be pushed around like a rag doll by those who controlled the party. They assumed he was just a street thug who’d reprise his role in the 1998 street protests of Desmond Hoyte. But, knowing that you can’t cash the same check twice, he demonstrated his political nous by fighting off all those high-falutin’ challengers who’d assumed they’d bowl him over with their fancy book credentials, bespoke clothing, and measured tones!! Now they gotta think again!! He showed them he didn’t have to channel Burnham in look and tone, just in his realpolitik approach to acquiring power by any means necessary. Even INSIDE the party!! By that yardstick, politics ain’t another form of war; it IS WAR!!
However, Aubrey can’t rest on his laurels, since the PPP GS has announced that elections are scheduled for November 2025!! So, there’s a lotta work to be done if Xmas 2025 will be a happy one for the PNC!! And there’s always the possibility of snap elections!!
The fundamental problem, however, is some of his advisors – not necessarily from inside the PNC - don’t wanna accept that that party needs voters outside of its 29% African-Guyanese ethnic base to get to that 50%+1 it takes to win democratic elections.
Rather than point out that Granger was a fool who nuked the one way they could do that - then apologise and begin anew by coalescing with a party, or bring in some big-name Indian-Guyanese who could garner enough Indian votes – they’ve forced Aubrey into a hold me-loose me posture. To hold his base, he has to scowl; to attract outside votes, he tries to smile!! And looks clueless.
In the meantime, the PPP think their base is secure as they give the PNC’s constituency the full-court press - better than LeBron in his prime!! Incumbency - with oil revenues flowing into the kitty - allows them to suck cane and blow whistle at the same time!!
…Guyana in 2025
So, what makes the PPP so confident?? Well…let’s count the ways!! By then, even if the bridge across the Demerara River ain’t complete, it’ll be so advanced that those 60,000 voters from Reg 3 would be so pleased they’ll place those Xs next to that Cup!! And let’s not forget the oil-and- gas power plants and manufacturing plants in Wales. Jobs, baby, jobs!!
Over in Berbice, there’s gonna be that Stadium, hotel, and 21st century landscape to catapult the Ancient County into the future!! Rose Hall Estate will certainly be grinding by then!!
Meanwhile hopping over to the Cinderella County, billions and billions are being spent to develop the agricultural base that’s been their mainstay. And so, truth be told, the PPP just needs a small piece of the PNC’s base to switch. They already have the Amerindian vote sewed up with all the funding for developing the hinterland communities that they look like the Cheshire Cat!! Any vote from the PNC base is just soorwah!!
…with fringe parties
The cover’s been blown on the small parties; they’re really lifeless paper organizations. But that’s not gonna stop some, like the AFC and the WPA, from campaigning in ‘25.
Do they forget that the last resurrection was two thousand years ago?!!
Social Media talk show host
Mikhil Rodrigues, also known as the “Guyanese Critic”
Businessmen Azruddin and Nazar Mohamed TURN TO PAGE 12
IDB approves US$400,000 loan to aid Guyana’s trade, food security efforts
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a US$400,000 loan for the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce to bolster Guyana’s food security efforts.
This funding will be used to strengthen trade and logistics at the Guyana-Brazil border and the GuyanaSuriname border.
According to the IDB’s project documents, the government had expressed an interest in upgrading the Linden-Lethem transport corridor, a key artery for the socioeconomic development of communities in Guyana’s hinterland and the regional integration with the Roraima and Amazonas states of Brazil. The road is paved on the Brazilian side but stops at the border in Bomfim.
While a largely unpaved road connection currently exists between Georgetown and the border, it is often hazardous due to dust during the dry season and frequently impassable in some sections during the rainy season where passage relies on low embankments, timber bridges, and fer-
ry crossings. The unpaved road length from Lethem to Linden is approximately 454 Km.
Road works are ongoing on the first 25 kilometres of the Linden-to-Lethem
Guyana Government.
While the current emphasis of the Government of Guyana so far has been on road construction, motivated by a desire to create a reliable and safe land
Roadway commencing from Linden. The project is being funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) via a US$112 million loan, a grant to the tune of £50 million (US$66 million) from the United Kingdom under the Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (CIPF), and an input of US$12 million from the
link with its neighbour, increase cross-border trade, and strengthen food security, the IDB said it is evident that the land connection must be considered within a wider framework to have a positive developmental impact. Towards this end, the IDB said the US$400,000 allotment is concerned with the broader economic and
social development objectives related to strengthening trade.
In providing a breakdown of the US$400,000 allotment, the bank noted that US$25,000 will allow for the provision of technical inputs on preferential tariffs, investment provisions, and trade facilitation to the Government of Guyana for future trade negotiations, whether bilateral or regionally.
The sum of US$50,000 is expected to finance activities related to policy dialogue and knowledge dissemination in relation to
bilateral or regional trade agreement negotiations, with particular emphasis on Brazil. These activities will consider the elaboration of communications materials and workshops which will support negotiations and consensus-building.
A total of US$275,000 will go towards conceptual designs for the improvement of the Lethem-Bonfim border crossing and the Guyana-Suriname border crossing. This includes a market analysis of trade flows; a diagnosis of existing physical infrastructure, logistics, and goods
clearance processes; status of trade policy (e.g. transit agreement), trade facilitation and regulatory measures; policy and investment recommendations and conceptual designs for the improved logistic flow of goods across both borders. Proposals undertaken in 2019 for the border at Lethem-Bomfim will be taken into consideration.
Finally, the sum of US$50,000 will be used to provide resources for a consultancy to monitor activities regarding the foregoing elements. This project is expected to last 36 months.
Preparation of land for corn and soya cultivation
Works on the Linden to Lethem Roadway
Sergeants busted with 154lbs ganja in GDF vehicle
Two Sergeants at-
tached to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) were in the wee hours of Thursday busted with 154lbs of cannabis at Coverden, East Bank Demerara (EBD) during a joint intelligence-led operation involving the Special Branch and Regional Division 4 ‘B’.
arrested after he was found with just over 21 pounds of marijuana during a roadblock.
It was reported that during an intelligence-led operation a white Toyota Premio car with License Plate number PYY 4027, driven by the Police Constable was intercepted at Garden of Eden Public Road, EBD.
The constable admitted to having narcotics in the car and as such, he was arrested and remained silent. The narcotics were weighed and amounted to 9.60 kilogrammes (21.1644 lbs.).
Police stated that on the day in question at about 3:45h, a vehicle bearing registration number DFB 1786 was intercepted with two occupants – the driver, a 31-year-old GDF Sergeant from Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, and a 42-yearold GDF Staff Sergeant from Linden. They both are stationed at GDF's Camp Ayanganna Headquarters. However, during a search of the vehicle, 22 bulky bags containing a quantity of cannabis were discovered.
vestigations.
The two ranks were arrested and escorted to the Regional Police Division 4'B' Headquarters, where the suspected Cannabis was weighed and amounted to 154 lbs. They remain in custody pending further in-
Following the incident, the GDF stated “The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is investigating an incident involving the transportation of Marijuana in a service vehicle by two Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs), Staff Sergeant Adisa Higgins and Sergeant Colvis Sam.”
The release added that the GDF is committed to maintaining the highest standards of conduct among its ranks and does not condone any behavior that undermines the trust and con-
fidence reposed in the Force by the public.
“The Force is fully collaborating with the Guyana Police Force to address this matter… And wishes to reassure the public that this incident is an anomaly and does not reflect the character and dedication of the men and women who serve. The GDF remains steadfast in its mission to protect and serve the people of Guyana with the highest level of professionalism and integrity.”
Only a few days ago, a 29-year-old male Police Constable from Linden was
This vehicle was transporting the cannabis when it was intercepted
The ganja that was found in the vehicle
2 guns used in execution-style killing of transgender sex worker – Crime Chief
– trio remains in custody as Police await DPP advice
Dead: Simon Shawn Anthony, also called “Coil Bottle”
As the investigation intensifies into the execution-style killing of transgender sex worker
Simon Shawn Anthony, also called “Coil Bottle”, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum has confirmed that three persons remain in custody –two of which shot at the now dead man.
Blanhum on Thursday told the Guyana Times that seven of the spent shells found at the scene matched those fired from a P80 9mm Pistol while another four were fired from an Elite Britain 9mm Pistol.
The Crime Chief added
that during initial interrogation, one of the suspects told detectives that his accomplice was the lone shooter but following the recovery of two types of bullets at the crime scene, investigators are working on the theory that two persons might have been involved in the shooting incident.
In addition, another suspect during interrogation reportedly stated that before the killing, he took the two guns in a food box and handed them over to one of his accomplices at a popular bar along South Road. No further information was provided as to which of the guns
GRA fire was electrical – Fire Chief
hief Fire Officer
CGregory Wickham has confirmed that the fire which started at the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) head office on Camp Street, on Wednesday was electrical.
He further disclosed that there was no major damage caused to the building except some electrical appliances that were destroyed. He did not divulge any additional information.
The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) was summoned to the scene at about 14:00h
on the day in question after a fire alarm went off in the management department.
Staff quickly followed evacuation protocols, leaving the building in an orderly manner. Firefighters arrived on the scene swiftly and efficiently managed to contain and extinguish the fire.
There were no injuries reported and GRA had resumed operation on Thursday following a safety inspection. GRA’s head office is a 6-storey building, which houses some 700 staff members.
inflicted the fatal wound.
Nevertheless, Blanhum added that the file was completed and was dispatched to the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for legal advice.
The three persons were arrested several hours after the shooting following a high-speed chase with police.
The 27-year-old victim was gunned down at about 2:00h on July 11, 2024, at the corner of South Road and King Street, Georgetown by an occupant of a heavily tinted dark grey motor car. At the time of the fatal shooting, the victim was in the company of other sex workers.
The police have since recovered nine 9MM spent shells at the scene, but according to detectives, the
victim was shot only once, under the right arm.
On Thursday, Orin Fraser who was an eyewitness to the shooting and a close friend of the deceased, recalled that on the day in question, he saw Simon talking to someone in a silver fielder wagon after which they both went into a yard “doing a business.”
Fraser stated that about 30 minutes later, Simon returned and it was then, that he observed the tinted car.
“Me and meh next sister Pretty was talking and making laugh and the same car had come around back and pull over… I was the first one to go to this car. I make three attempts to go to this car. Then Coil Bottle said y’all don’t go, that man came to me. And the man drove up with a speed.”
Despite them warning him not to approach the vehicle, Simon did not pay heed.
“This was my last words, I said girl don’t go, I told Coil Bottle don’t go and she went in front of the car. By time this woman put up her foot to go in the car, Coil Bottle was in front of me and if you hear gunshots start to shoot out.”
Fraser disclosed that because of the darkness inside the car, they could not identify the shooter. Another of his colleagues, however, identified the shooter as “Shaggy.”
“Everything in the car was dark, the only thing I see is something like sparks coming up from the front right by the driving side no other window had went down from the car and I held
my ears and start run over the road… soon after that I see Coil Bottle lying in a pool of blood” Fraser added. In October 2023, Simon had visited a friend, who works at a hotel in New Amsterdam, Berbice and while there, three men and two women – all of whom he knew– had threatened him. He had later accused the men of assaulting and threatening him. At the time he had claimed that he had gone to the Central Police Station in New Amsterdam, and an officer took a statement from him and asked that he return the following day. He had said that even though his face was partly swollen and he was bleeding, the officer did not give him a form to obtain a Police medical report from a doctor.
Customers, employees and firemen outside the GRA building
PNC-R appoints Attorney-at-law as new General Secretary
The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), the largest party in the parliamentary Opposition Coalition, has appointed Attorney-atlaw Sherwin Christopher Benjamin as its new General Secretary.
In a statement on Thursday, the PNCR disclosed that its first Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting was held on Wednesday since the 22nd Biennial Delegates Congress held almost three weeks ago in June.
Party Leader Aubrey Norton, under the authority granted to him by the party’s constitution, announced the appointment of Benjamin as the party’s new General Secretary.
According to the missive, Benjamin brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the PNCR, having been involved in the party since
1997.
Benjamin has held various positions within the Guyana Youth and Students Movement (GYSM), including Group Chairman, Regional Vice Chairman for Region Six, National Executive Committee Member, and National Treasurer.
Additionally, he currently serves as the Regional Representative to the PNCR’s CEC of Region Four.
Professionally, Benjamin is a lawyer admitted to the Fiji Bar in July 2015. He is a graduate of the GuySuCo Training Centre, New Amsterdam Technical Institute, Critchlow Labour College, Project Management Institute, University of Guyana, and the University of Fiji.
As the new General Secretary, the PNCR said Benjamin will play a key
role in leading the party’s efforts to strengthen its organisational efficiency,
readiness, and appeal as the party and country prepare for the upcoming regional
and national elections.
In addition, he will work closely with the party’s leadership and members to ensure that the organisation remains true to its mission and vision.
Benjamin is taking over the General Secretary post from Dawn HastingsWilliams, who resigned on June 24 – just days away from the party’s congress.
She cited among other things the lack of readiness for the party’s congress and her being sidelined in the preparations for the event in her resignation letter to Norton.
According to the PNCR’s Constitution, the General Secretary is the Chief Executive Officer in charge of the Party Secretariat and is responsible for its efficient organisation and its day-to-day functioning.
But Hastings-Williams, who is also a former Government minister under the APNU+AFC regime, complained about not being able to execute her duties. She raised concerns regarding the removal of a Central Processing Unit (CPU) from the Office of the General Secretary, without her knowledge as well as the lack of financial accountability within the party.
“I felt as if I was being watched and monitored. In fact, this was actually the second time I felt humiliated after being locked out at the gate where canters and cars were used to block my vehicle from entering to pick me up to take me home
from work… Congress Place at present is not conducive to working especially when you have someone shouting and threatening staff that they will be sent home,” the politician lamented.
Hastings-Williams’ tenure as the PNCR’s GS lasted for just over a year. In fact, since Norton’s assumption as Leader of the party in December 2021, there have been several changes in the GS post.
Norton’s leadership style has been criticised and questioned by many party members including stalwart and former GS, Amna Ally. Moreover, there have been several controversies leading up to the PNC Congress, where Norton was re-elected for a second term. He is facing allegations of sexual assault made by party member Vanessa Kissoon. Kissoon, who is currently a councillor on the Linden Town Council, claimed that Norton had threatened to rape her at gunpoint. The PNC’s elders have since launched an investigation.
In the lead-up to last month’s congress, Norton was being challenged for the PNCR leadership post by fellow parliamentarians, Roysdale Forde and Amanza Walton-Desir. However, both Forde and Walton Desir withdrew from the race just one day before Congress started. They, along with many other PNCR-elected parliamentarians, have been left out of the party’s new Executive Committee.
High Court orders ...
The lawsuit pointed out that on February 17, 2024, and on March 1, and 14, Rodrigues defamed the Mohameds through Facebook programmes where he publicly uttered and broadcasted several untrue and defamatory statements about the businessmen.
The lawyers further stated that the statements and accusations against the Mohameds are patently untrue without justification, misleading, and de-
famatory and have caused injury and significant harm to Nazar and his son Azruddin, their good name, reputation and has lowered their name in the minds of right-thinking members of society.
“In your broadcast you introduce yourself as the realest thing. Despite this, it seems you have a propensity for disseminating blatantly untrue, libelous and fictitious statements without lawful basis or justification that in their natural and ordinary meaning and by way of innuendo, are defamatory to my client and his reputation,” the letter stated.
“Further you hold yourself out as a Critic, yet none of your statements are valid or constructive criticism at all. Simply put none of your statements are real no matter the decibel you speak and the amount of times you repeat or the amount of vitriol and hate you heap upon my client, his son and family.”
As such, Poonai and Poonai demanded that Rodrigues cease making or repeating the defamatory statements made against the Mohameds.
Newly-appointed PNCR General Secretary, Sherwin Benjamin
Govt awards contracts for emergency road works in Noitgedacht, West Watooka
ublic Works Minister
PJuan Edghill awarded several contracts for emergency road work in Noitgedacht and West Watooka in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) on Wednesday.
Following a visit to the communities, it was observed that several critical roads are in deplorable conditions thus causing residents to complain to the authorities.
The asphalt road in Noitgedacht became impassable as heavy-duty ve-
ing town.
“The commitments for the people of West Watooka and the users of this road within a couple of days you’ll be able to start driving here because we have engaged an emergency contractor. Noitgedacht is being handled right now work is ongoing so it will be easier, and we want to stop those trucks diverting through Noitgedacht and breaking up the road,” Minister Edghill disclosed.
Minister Edghill also emphasised the need for
and destroy it,” he asserted.
Some 26 contracts amounting to $1.3 billion were already awarded to repair roads within the mining town.
Meanwhile, following assessments by the engineering department of the Public Works Ministry, local contractors from Linden will also be awarded contracts.
“Like last year what we did cause some of the contractors didn’t have the capacity with the pavers and equipment, so we went to
hicles were forced to use the roads during the May/June rainy season. On the other hand, damages were caused to the West Watooka main access road following the collapse of a culvert during the rainy season.
On Wednesday, Edghill explained that the emergency repairs will enhance both safety and accessibility on the roadways that serve as a critical link for residents and businesses in the min-
proactive maintenance and responsible usage of the roadways, given that the government has already committed to rehabilitating all the roads in Linden.
“The government has already committed to doing all the roads. What the people who are doing their videos and all the rest of it, they should help us to ensure that trucks with all the lumber and the overweight don’t come on these roads
the smaller contractors and they were able to do the concrete roads in sections, and that way we engaged more than 50 contractors in Linden. A similar rollout will be done based upon the assessment my team is doing,” the Minister explained.
According to Edghill, the awarding of contracts to locals are aimed at creating opportunities for small contractors and residents to earn an income.
The Noitgedacht Road was in a deplorable state
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, and engineers inspecting the deteriorating conditions of the West Watooka Road
$70M outdoor play park & gym commissioned at Mahdia
An outdoor play park and gym facility was on Wednesday commissioned in Mahdia, Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni) to the tune of $70 million through the Cabana Marketing and Fantasy Sports Lounge.
The park and gym offer a range of amenities including slides, see-saws, and swings which provide leisure activities for the entire family in a safe and relaxed environment.
During the commissioning ceremony, the Marketing Manager of Cabana Marketing and Fantasy Sports Lounge Diana Persaud explained
that this undertaking was the organisation’s way of giving back to the community.
“We commenced this project in March 2024 and we are so happy that it’s finally completed so that we can hand this over to the Mahdia community.” She revealed that the organisation will invest in a similar facility in Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu- Upper Essequibo).
Mayor of Mahdia, Eslyn Hussain was optimistic that the facility will significantly enhance the community.
“The installation of the play and outdoor gym has significantly enhanced our
oval ground undoubtfully, bringing joy and gratitude to the children of Mahdia and the surrounding communi-
significant idea to protect and conserve the park's surroundings.
"Together, we can ensure
around the park and a security guard be permanently placed to assist with daily monitoring."
ties by providing a secure and enjoyable recreational space.”
Moreover, she expressed that this endeavor has the potential to strengthen the people of Mahdia as they utilise the facility to spend quality time together.
Sharing similar views as the mayor was Kym Douglas, a representative of Movement Family Hotel and Bar, who played an integral role in the development of the initiative.
"This park represents more than just a recreational space; it is a symbol of community, collaboration, and a commitment to the well-being of our children and residents. To the residents of Mahdia, I ask for your assistance in caring for this park."
Douglas also revealed a
that this park remains safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone. In light of this, I recommend to the Mahdia Council that a fence be built
She emphasised that these measures will help maintain the park's integrity and ensure safety for all users.
Children posing alongside members of the Cabana Marketing and Fantasy Sports Lounge
A section of the newly-commissioned park
Marketing Manager of Cabana Marketing and Fantasy Sports Lounge, Diana Persaud
Hurricane Beryl
Shelters remain open in Grenada, St Vincent
– talks underway on potential impact of another tropical hazard
Following the passage of Hurricane Beryl, the focus is now on assisting Carriacou and Petite Martinique in Grenada and Bequia, Union Island, Canouan and Mayreau in St. Vincent and the Grenadines that were severely hit. Assessments continue in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands to determine damage and inform response and early recovery actions. Nevertheless, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) as well as the regional and international partners continue to support the ongoing response efforts being coordinated through the Regional Response Mechanism (RRM).
Presently, some 52 shelters that were set up in St. Vincent and Grenadines (SVG) and 13 in Grenada remain open for individuals seeking assistance due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl. About 1111 persons are occupying the shelters in St. Vicent and the Grenadines while another 260 are being attended to in shelters across Grenada.
The shelters are located
in cities that were severely affected by the hurricane including Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Grenada.
According to a recent report issued by the CDEMA, these facilities provide safe housing and access to food and sanitary supplies for vulnerable persons including the elderly and children. There is still a need for food supplies as it is a challenge
for local suppliers to provide the quantities required.
Further, limited electricity is available on Carriacou and Petite Martinique but the situation is improving as generators were sent to both islands to increase power generation capacity. With respect to water, both Carriacou and Petite Martinique benefitted from the distribution of bottled
water to reduce the risk of diseases borne out of poor water quality.
Over in St. Vincent, approximately 80 per cent of power was restored in certain areas and this is anticipated to be fully repaired within the next two weeks. In some areas such as Union Island, there is still limited power supply and the company has indicated that they
are waiting for conditions on the island to improve before workers are allowed to undertake the requisite restoration of the electricity infrastructure.
Moreover, 200 volunteers are currently assisting with cleanup efforts on both islands, including 50 Guyanese soldiers.
However, following the devastation, psycho-social support is being provided to the residents of Grenada while talks are taking place with key stakeholders on the potential impact of another tropical hazard during the current season. In addition, discussions for a contingency plan are taking place to prepare for any eventuality.
On July 1, categorised as the earliest Category 5 hurricane before decreasing to Category 4, Beryl caused widespread devastation in Grenada, severely impacting the islands of Carriacou and Petit Martinique, where 70 per cent and 97 per cent of buildings were damaged or destroyed, respectively. It was reported too that the disaster also destroyed the country’s livestock, permanent crops, and cash crops.
Beryl also wreaked havoc in Barbados, St. Lucia, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago – countries with large Guyanese diasporas.
In fact, over 38000 Guyanese residing in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), Barbados, and Trinidad were reportedly affected by the devasting Beryl, which has killed at least ten people.
The catastrophic storm came as Grenada was preparing to host the 47th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government from July 3 to 5 at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort Hotel, Grand Anse – just outside the St. George’s capital.
The meeting, which comes as Grenada takes over the CARICOM Chairmanship, has since been rescheduled to July 28 to 30 in St. George’s.
Since Hurricane Beryl’s impact across the region, the Guyana Government, as well as the local private sector and other NGOs, have been mobilising support to make much-needed and critical donations to the affected countries.
18 officers poised for future leadership within GDF
Atotal of 18 Guyana Defence Force (GDF) officers including one lieutenant commander and 17 captains, have recently completed the Senior Command and Staff Course Number 19 (SCSC#19).
The 16-week course, which was conducted under the tutelage of the Colonel Cecil Martindale Command and Staff School (CCMCSS), officially concluded on July 12, 2024, following a significant ceremony held at the Executive Room, Base Camp Ayanganna, Thomas Lands, Georgetown.
The SCSC is the highest internal level of training for officers of the Force, offering a unique and privileged opportunity. It is crucial in preparing the officers for the future leadership of the
Force. It is intricately and comprehensively designed to equip the officers with the necessary competencies to function as Grade Two Staff Officers and Combat Team Commanders.
During his feature remarks, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Brigadier Omar Khan congratulated the officers and urged them to behave in a manner suitable for leadership roles. He also reminded the officers that the GDF is pledged in service to Guyana and its people, and it is their responsibility to propel the Force professionally to achieve and maintain its mandate. The CDS also reiterated his command philosophy, which abbreviates SIM and speaks to Sound, Image, and Movement.
“You must consider yourselves as leaders in every sense of the word: in your sound, image, and movement. It is important that you recognise your achievements and the importance of the contributions you will have to make for the betterment and progress of this Force,” he posited.
Commanding Officer of the Training Corps and Director of SCSC#19, Lieutenant Colonel Harold Fraser, highlighted the importance of the officer’s presence on the course. He underscored that the objective and achievement of the course were to stretch the officers’ capabilities and prepare them for the multifaceted demands of senior leadership.
“Over the past 16 weeks,
you have been engaged in a transformative experience that tested your intellect, challenged your perspectives, and forged lasting professional bonds. SCSC#19 has not only enhanced your strategic and operational knowledge but also challenged your leadership abilities and tested your resilience.”
SCSC#19 was organised over three terms, covering the following subject areas: Minor Staff Duties and Operational Staff Work, Communication Skills Studies, and Joint Operational Planning. Its content included Military Components, Command and Leadership, Internal Security and Stability Operations, Peace Operations, Military
Law and Law of Armed Conflict, Military Theories, Administration and Logistics, and Research Paper Writing, among others. Additionally, for the first time, students of the course were exposed to new content, including Business Analytics, Big Data, problem-solving involving Harvard University Case Studies, and Mind Mapping.
Major Kareem Graham was adjudged Best Graduating Student, a testament to his outstanding performance and dedication. He also received the
prize for Best Service Paper. The Runner-up prize went to his counterpart, Captain Wavon Samuels, whose exceptional work was also recognised.
The CDS, branch heads, senior officers, officers, warrant officers, senior non-commissioned officers, soldiers, and civilian staff extend their heartfelt congratulations to the officers for their recent achievements. We are grateful for your dedication and hard work and wish you all the best in your future endeavours on your military journey.
COS Omar Khan along the graduating officers
Major Kareem Graham collecting his award from COS, Omar Khan
Carriacou, Grenada, after the passage of Hurricane Beryl
Gov’t launches revolutionary highspeed internet service in Moruca
– “We are bridging the digital divide for Guyanese” – PM Mark Phillip
Following the delivery of yet another manifesto promise, Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips extolled the high benefits of the revolutionary high-speed internet initiative that residents of Moruca, North West District (NWD), region One recently received.
The new low-earth orbiting platform is set to transform the subdivision of Moruca, bringing highspeed connectivity to the area and according to Prime Minister Phillips, this is part of the government’s
initiative to connect persons from hinterland communities to the digital world.
“This ICT performance project is for the entire community. It is going to reach everyone. We are now connecting you to the digital world. Teachers can come and get connected, which brings us to a whole new transformation in how we deal with healthcare. Much of the theoretical work can be done online,” he stated.
Discussing the agricultural and health sectors, Phillips highlighted how the new internet connec-
tion would enable residents to contact local experts and seek advice without leaving their community.
“As it pertains to agriculture, a lot of farming takes place here in this community. With this new implementation, you have access to experts without leaving your community to find out information about your crops if you are facing challenges. This is what ICT does—what exists on the coast must exist in the hinterland.”
He also pointed out that the new internet service reduces the need to travel to Georgetown to fill out government forms, thanks to the increased bandwidth.
“This is not only to watch Netflix. People will
be able to connect with relatives, and it will help you to do your studies under the GOAL initiative,” Phillips
terland communities with free high-speed internet access, aligning with the government's efforts to bridge
added.
“This project is set to provide underserved hin-
the digital divide. You no longer have to travel to Georgetown to apply for
forms; you can do that on your phones.”
“This is a promise made and a promise delivered, as outlined in the government's manifesto,” Phillips concluded.
With this monumental launch, 138 communities are now connected to the future. The new rollout promises transformative changes: connectivity to power the GOAL scholarship offerings, life-saving telemedicine services, and seamless e-government services, eliminating the need for residents to travel to the city. It also promises overall improved standards of living as Guyana harnesses the power of technology to diversify its economy and empower its citizens.
Malali, Muritaro boat operators now licensed to operate in Demerara River
Considering the influx of economic activity heading to Linden, Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice), and its surrounding communities, the government plans to invest in better facilities for boat operators there.
Approximately 43 boat operators from Malali and 36 from Muritaro recently completed theoretical and safety sensitisation training facilitated by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD).
MARAD’s Director General, Stephen Thomas stated that all of the boat
operators demonstrated the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and effectively operate small craft along the Demerara River. As such, they have received various certificates and licenses.
During his address at the handing-over ceremony on Wednesday, Thomas emphasised the importance of certification, particularly as those areas are budding tourist destinations.
“Tourism is booming in the country already and when tourists visit a community, the first thing they ask if they use a boat, are
boats certified or are the operators certified. So, we’re positioning you members of the community to be certified so you can benefit in addition to the other great things taking place in the country,” he stated.
Meanwhile, some 250 life jackets were distributed to the operators. In so doing, Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill underscored the importance of further bolstering safety measures along the country’s waterways.
MARAD recently provided approval to Bosai Minerals Group Guyana to
operate major vessels for transporting bauxite to a mothership in the Atlantic, and subsequently to international waters.
Initially, operations will involve two self-propelled barges, with plans for an additional two, thereby increasing river traffic.
Minister Edghill explained that now more than ever all boat operators must adhere to safety guidelines and protocols.
“So even right here in Linden/Wismar, the crossings with that kind of operation we have to ensure that everybody is operating
understanding safety. We don’t want anybody dying on our water ways and nobody colliding,” Edghill underscored.
Further, Edghill reiterated government’s commitment to improving water transport and infrastructure in Guyana, particularly with the growing importance of the oil and gas sector in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
In this regard, he disclosed plans to construct a new independent facility at the Malali and Muritaro landing for operators to dock their boats, access shelter,
an appropriate waiting area and sanitary outlets.
“The latest they can start is the beginning of August. We already have the designs and the rest of it is now getting the contractor in place to execute that job. It will be somewhere between the vicinity of $10 to $12 million and that is an investment we are giving the people of Muritaro and Malali… You are ahead of the game here in Malali and Muritaro because you’re able to get to the advantage even before other areas come into place,” he explained.
Minister Edghill handing over life jackets to one of the operators
Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill and the boat operators after the ceremony
Prime Minister Mark Phillips and other officials
Scores of residents were at the launch
Some of the devices that were handed over
The internet connection facility in Moruca
Foreign businesses must pay taxes so they don't undersell locals – VP Jagdeo
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday announced that the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is investigating businesses that are bypassing the payment of taxes.
He made this revelation during his weekly press briefing in light of criticisms over the ability of businesses owned by foreigners to sell commodities for a cheaper cost, attracting the majority of customers.
“We cannot allow people to out-compete Guyanese because of ripping off of the taxes and all of that, and sometimes they do and the GRA is having an intense look at that,” he told reporters.
However, he pointed out that Guyanese businesses must also work to promote the products which they sell. “If you are a businessman, you have to be nimble. We can’t force people to buy your tools that you’re selling at twice the price,” the Vice President contended.
Aside from imported products, many people have also been complaining about the increasing cost of food items on the local market.
Responding to questions about this, Jagdeo said it is the “middlemen” or retail-
ers who purchase from the farmers that increase the prices.
“We have to keep working to ensure that the farmers benefit more from any profit because they’re working in the fields and their margin is very very slim and they do the hard work, and the middlemen, they make most of the money,” he posited.
He added, “When you go into the supermarket, the prices will be three times what you can buy from the farmers and all they do is probably washing and packing it a bit more.”
In this regard, the Vice President stated that the Government is investing in processing plants across the country to provide a constant market for the har-
vests, therefore encouraging the farmers to plant more.
An increase in production will lead to lower costs.
Further, he highlighted that the farmers must be more organised to remove the “middlemen” and increase their profit margin.
This, he said, will ensure that they are also adequately compensated for the hard work put into the fields. The Government is also investing in drainage and irrigation along with farm to market roads and farmers’ market initiatives to address the cost of local produce.
Work collectively to maximise investment opportunities – GO-Invest Head tells WAIPA
Guyana’s Chief Investment Officer and Agency Head of the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest), Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, on Wednesday, called on investment promotion heads of the world to adopt a united approach to maximise investment opportunities in this part of the hemisphere.
He issued the call to regional investment agency heads and their representatives, at the opening of the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) Central America and the Caribbean Regional Meeting being held in the Dominican Republic.
Vice President of the Dominican Republic, Ms. Raquel Peña de Antuña, also attended the event.
In his presentation titled, “Guyana Case: Investment Possibilities in New Industries,” he underscored the importance of integration in the region and noted the use of artificial intelligence to create thriving agriculture and tourism sec-
tors.
The local investment chief also used the opportunity to promote Guyana as an investment hub in the region, pointing out that Guyana is open to green and sustainable investments in tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, energy, ICT, forestry, and efforts to tackle climate change.
With a surge in economic growth in recent years coupled with heavy investments in social development, food, climate, and energy securities, Dr. Ramsaroop also told the forum that Guyana has emerged as the Jaguar economy in this part of the world.
He also touched on relations between Guyana and the Dominican Republic.
Guyana and the Dominican Republic enjoy cordial bilateral relations. The two countries established diplomatic relations in 1970 but in recent years have ramped up collaborations. In 2023, President Dr. Irfaan Ali visited the Dominican Republic, and in the same year, President
of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, paid a reciprocal visit to Guyana.
In 2023 alone, the two nations signed 10 cooperation agreements. The Dominican Republic has also established an embassy in Guyana, and today the private sectors of the two nations enjoy a stronger bond as they collaborate in tourism, energy, and construction, among other areas.
The two-day WAIPA meeting brought together regional investment agencies head and representatives and was held under the theme “Building a Regional Agenda for the Promotion of Foreign Direct Investment”.
He called for the event to be held in Guyana in 2025.
Established in 1995 at the United Nations headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, WAIPA is a global body representing investment promotion agencies (IPAs) from over 100 countries. It focuses on supporting and empowering IPAs from around the world by serving as their primary knowledge hub for attracting, facilitating, and advocating investments.
By its role as a prima-
ry knowledge hub, WAIPA, in effect, actively works to assist nations in achieving economic development, fostering job creation, and facilitating technology transfer through sustainable Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Dr. Ramsaroop has been aggressively marketing Guyana as an investor-friendly nation at major investor and business conferences around the world, in keeping with President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s Vision 2030 agenda, which includes transforming Guyana into a global hub for business, ecotourism, and leisure.
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
Guyana’s Chief Investment Officer and Agency Head of the Guyana Office for Investment, Dr Peter Ramsaroop
Officials at the opening of the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) Central America and the Caribbean Regional Meeting in the Dominican Republic
Regional
Trinidad's court reaffirms recognition of ConocoPhillips' claim against Venezuela Peru extends pre-trial detention for former President Castillo
Trinidad and Tobago's High Court reaffirmed on Thursday a decision recognising US oil producer ConocoPhillips' arbitration claim against Venezuela, which could freeze the Caribbean country's payments to its neighbour for joint natural gas projects.
In late May, the court's original decision opened the door for ConocoPhillips to enforce in that country a US$1.33 billion claim against Venezuela for past expropriations by seizing any compensation from joint energy projects.
Venezuela and its Stateowned company PDVSA did not respond to the court by a deadline to present their arguments, Judge Frank Seepersad said in his decision seen by Reuters.
Earlier this month, Venezuela's Embassy in Port of Spain, Trinidad's capital, acknowledged receipt of the court order, the document showed.
"The order gives to the claimant a green light to be able to enforce the judgment in Trinidad if they can establish there are assets held by the defendants or there is money which is owed to the defendant by entities in Trinidad and Tobago," Judge Seepersad said in May when
he made his original decision.
PDVSA paid Conoco about US$700 million through a settlement agreement, but ceased payments in late 2019. Conoco has since attempted similar moves in Caribbean countries seeking to enforce arbitration rulings against Venezuela and PDVSA.
In a US federal court, the oil producer is among companies at the top of a list of creditors pursuing proceeds from an auction of shares in one of PDVSA's subsidiaries, PDV Holding, whose only asset is Houston-based refiner Citgo.
Venezuela and Trinidad, along with energy companies NGC, Shell and BP are looking to develop major offshore gas fields shared by the countries and on the Venezuelan side of the maritime border.
NGC said it has not been served with any documents related to the ConocoPhillips
claims and continues to work with its partners and stakeholders to progress the Dragon Gas Project.
NGC and Shell have a 30year licence to develop the 4.5-trillion-cubic-feet Dragon gas field in Venezuela and export the gas to Trinidad to be turned into LNG and petrochemicals with payments to be made to Venezuela and PDVSA.
ConocoPhillips specifically identified Dragon as one reason it wanted the Trinidad court to recognise the judgment.
As part of those projects' negotiations, parties in Trinidad were expected to pay PDVSA and Venezuela bonds to have access to the gas reserves, Conoco has told the court.
Shell and ConocoPhillips declined to comment. PDVSA did not immediately respond to requests for comment. (Reuters)
Argentina's Milei vows justice in 1994 bombing of Jewish community centre
Argentina's Jewish community on Thursday commemorated the 30th anniversary of the bombing of a community centre that killed 85 persons, with President Javier Milei promising to right decades of inaction and inconsistencies in the investigations into the attack.
A bomb-filled van hit the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) Jewish community centre in Buenos Aires in 1994, the deadliest such incident in the South American nation's history.
"Today we chose to speak out, not stay silent," Milei said in an address on Wednesday evening, ahead of a ceremony at the AMIA building on Thursday.
"We're raising our voice, not
folding our arms. We choose life, because anything else is making a game out of death."
In April, Argentina's top criminal court blamed Iran for the attack, saying it was carried out by Hezbollah militants responding to "a political and strategic design" by Iran. Tehran has denied involvement and refused to turn over suspects, and previous investigations and Interpol arrest warrants have led nowhere.
Milei, a staunch proponent of both the Jewish community and Israel, said on Wednesday he would propose a bill that would allow for the trial of the attack suspects in absentia. He also said his government
would beef up the national intelligence system to prevent future attacks, while dedicating further resources into investigating the AMIA incident.
Argentine prosecutors have charged top Iranian officials and members of Iranbacked Lebanese armed group Hezbollah with ordering the bombing, as well as an attack in 1992 against the Israeli Embassy in Argentina, which killed 22 persons.
"Although they may never be able to serve a sentence, they will not be able to escape the eternal condemnation of a court proving their guilt in front of the whole world," Milei said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Peru's Judiciary said on Thursday it was extending the pre-trial detention of former President Pedro Castillo by 18 months while an investigation against him on charges of rebellion continues.
The move adds four months onto the 14-month extension it had ordered back in June. (Reuters)
T&T flooding traps residents
Residents of Penal, Barrackpore and Debe woke up in shock after three hours of heavy overnight showers on Tuesday left their homes submerged in two to three feet of floodwater.
Many were marooned in their homes, unable to even venture outside, after widespread flooding in those areas.
In Sammy West Trace, the force of the floodwater caused a wall to collapse onto the property of mechanic Naresh Maharaj. He said a nearby hillside became waterlogged and the force of the dirt pushed over the wall, damaging tools.
“We had a van parked here, but fortunately it was not damaged. It got a lot of mud on it,” Maharaj said.
In Rahamut Trace, Marilyn Boodoo and her family were inundated with over three feet of water in-
side their home. The family urgently requested a pump from the Disaster Management Unit to mitigate the damage.
Along Penal Rock Road near the five-mile mark, over two feet of water remained on the street, stretching for over a mile, making Goodman Trace impassable.
At Ragoonanan Trace, Penal, Simi Jamuna and Roger Mansingh hastily boarded up their pluckshop as the low-lying areas became inundated by floodwater.
Mansingh blamed the flooding on the persistent issue of clogged drains.
“Every year it’s the same kind of floods we get. We have moved out the poultry stocks and we are praying for this water to go down,” he said.
At Lower Barrackpore, an excavator was covered as
the river near the Monkey Town Government Primary School rose. The flooding got worse in some areas as the day progressed.
At Mulchand Trace, Sunita Bachoo shared her distress. “Even if you come out of here in the trace from Bikah Trace, the water is high. If you have an emergency, you cannot pass here. We got up this morning and there was less water than this. Right now, water is coming up, and we cannot pass here. Sometimes the water comes inside the house and kitchen,” she said. Bachoo said while this was the first flooding of the year, it was a recurring problem.
“Every year, it’s flood upon flood,” she lamented. “We need proper drainage,” she lamented. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)
Then Peruvian President Pedro Castillo speaking upon arriving at congress in Lima, Peru, April 5, 2022 (Reuters/Angela Ponce file photo)
Around the World
ROIL NEWS
1 dead, 9 rescued off Oman s coast after oil tanker sinks
Israel bombards central Gaza as tanks advance deeper in Rafah
Israeli forces bombarded the Gaza Strip's historic refugee camps in the centre of the enclave and struck Gaza City in the north on Thursday, killing at least 21 persons, and tanks pushed deeper into Rafah in the south, health officials and residents said.
escuers have saved nine crew members and retrieved the body of another after their oil tanker went down off the coast of Oman in the Arabian Sea.
The search teams responded to the tanker, MT Prestige Falcon, after it keeled over late on Monday some 46.3 kilometres (25 nautical miles) from Oman s Ras Madrakah, said the country s maritime security agency on Wednesday. Thirteen Indian and three Sri Lankan nationals were on board.
It was not immediately clear what caused the Comorianflagged ship to capsize. But the Indian Navy, which sent a warship to help in search operations, said teams were dealing with rough seas and strong winds.
In a statement, India s navy said eight Indian nationals were among those rescued, and that Indian and Omani teams were continuing to look for the others.
It said a long-range naval reconnaissance aircraft was assisting in the search for six crew members still unaccounted for.
India s navy has been deployed continuously around the Arabian Sea since 2008 and has assisted in numerous rescue operations in the past year following a surge in regional piracy attacks.
The 117-metre long (384-foot long) MT Prestige Falcon entered operations in 2007 and was headed for the port city of Aden before it ran into trouble, according to shipping website VesselFinder. (Al Jazeera)
Rwanda's President smashes his own election record
Rwanda's President Paul Kagame has smashed his own record by winning Monday's elections with more than 99 per cent of the vote, full provisional results show.
The 66-year-old won the 2017 election with 98.63 per cent of the vote, higher than the 93 per cent he got in 2010 and the 95 per cent in 2003.
His critics say Kagame's thundering majorities come as no surprise as he rules with an iron hand.
However, his supporters say they point to his huge popularity, with Rwanda having achieved stability and economic growth under his rule.
Kagame is a former rebel commander whose forces swept to power in 1994, end-
Rwanda, June 22, 2024 [EPA]
ing a genocide that claimed the lives of around 800,000 persons in 100 days.
The electoral commission barred at least three presidential aspirants, including the president's most vocal critics, from contesting.
It allowed two candidates the Democratic Green Party s Frank Habineza and independent Philippe Mpayimana to run against him.
They got 0.53 per cent and 0.32 per cent respectively, worse than in the 2017 election when their combined vote topped the one per cent mark.
Voter turnout was remarkably high 98 per cent, according to the electoral commission.
(Excerpt from BBC News)
A barrage of Israeli airstrikes killed 16 in Zawayda town, Bureij and Nuseirat camps and the overcrowded city of Deir-Al-Balah, the last major urban centre in Gaza not to be invaded by Israeli forces, health officials said.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is due to address the US Congress next week, made a surprise visit to Israeli troops in the area around Rafah, telling them that military pressure combined with a demand to
bring back 120 hostages still held in Gaza was producing results.
"This double pressure is not delaying the deal, it is advancing it," he said, ac-
Biden weighs presidential race exit as Trump prepares for big moment
President Joe Biden was "soul searching" about dropping his Democratic re-election campaign, a source said, while Donald Trump prepared to accept the Republican presidential nomination in what aides said would be an unusually reflective speech.
The fortunes of the two candidates appeared to be on opposite trajectories on Thursday in the run-up to the November 5 election.
Biden, 81, was isolating at his Delaware home after contracting COVID-19, while facing a growing revolt from Democrats who urged him to step aside to avert a landslide defeat. His doctor said he was experiencing mild symptoms.
Trump, 78, has basked all week in adulation at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee after surviving Saturday's assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally.
13
TTrump's acceptance speech, scheduled for 20:00h Eastern Time (0200 GMT on Friday), offers him a chance to lay out his vision for a second White House term before a prime time national television audience.
Biden has faced increasing pressure from heavyweights in his party to cede his position at the top of the ticket after an erratic June 27 debate performance against Trump. Former House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi is among those who have told him he cannot win in November, according to a White House source familiar with the matter.
After weeks of insisting that he will remain in the race, Biden is now taking calls to step aside seriously and multiple Democratic officials think an exit is a matter of time, according to sources familiar with the matter.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
cording to a statement from his office.
The Israeli military said in a statement its forces killed two senior Islamic Jihad commanders in two
airstrikes in Gaza City, including one whom it said had taken part in the October 7 attack in southern Israel that triggered the Gaza war.
Palestinian medics said five persons were killed in the two strikes.
In Rafah, residents said Israeli tanks advanced deeper in the western side of the city and took position on a hilltop there. The Israeli military said forces located several tunnels and killed several gunmen.
At Al-Amal Hospital, run by the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, in Khan Younis in southern Gaza, Palestinian health officials exhumed at least 12 bodies buried inside the medical facility to rebury them at another location.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Ukraine's Zelenskiy to BBC: We have to work with the US
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy acknowledged in an interview published on Thursday that a victory for Donald Trump in the US election in November would be difficult for his country, but Ukrainians were prepared.
Trump's choice of Senator JD Vance as his running mate has underscored how Washington's stand on Ukraine, locked in a 28-monthold war with Russia, could change if he won the election. Vance is on record in an interview as saying "I don t really care what happens to Ukraine one way or the other."
Zelenskiy, speaking to the BBC while attending the European Political Community (EPC) meeting in London, noted the comment, but added: "Maybe he really doesn't care, but we have to work with the United States."
Trump's election, he said in
remarks on the BBC website, would be "hard work, but we are hard workers".
The Administration of Joe Biden has provided weapons and supplies throughout the conflict, though the flow of assistance was halted for months by disputes within the US Congress.
Trump has said during the campaign that once elected, he would bring the conflict to an end even before taking office by securing a deal at the negotiating table. He said there would have been no conflict at all had he been in office when Moscow sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022.
In other comments to the BBC, Zelenskiy said Ukraine was thankful for pledges from its partners to supply F-16 fighter jets, most likely this summer, though they had not yet arrived. (Excerpt from Reuters)
killed in Bangladesh protests over job quotas
hirteen persons were killed as thousands of students armed with sticks and rocks clashed with armed Police in Dhaka on Thursday, the worst day of violence so far in protests in Bangladesh against a policy that sets quotas for the allocation of Government jobs.
Authorities cut some mobile Internet services to try to quell the unrest, which has killed at least 19 persons this week.
The people who died on Thursday, which saw the highest death toll in a single day so far, included a bus driver who was brought to a hospital with a bullet wound to his chest, a rickshaw-puller and three students, officials told Reuters.
Hundreds of people were injured as Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to break up groups of protesters, who torched vehicles,
Police posts and other establishments, witnesses said. The nationwide agitation, the biggest since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was
re-elected earlier this year, is fuelled by high youth unemployment. Nearly a fifth of the country's 170 million population is out of work or education.
Protesters are demanding the state stop setting aside 30 per cent of Government jobs for the families of people who fought in the 1971 war of independence from Pakistan. Hasina's government had scrapped the quota system in 2018, but a High Court reinstated it last month. The Government appealed against the verdict and the Supreme Court suspended the High Court order, pending hearing the Government s appeal on August 7.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Palestinians standing amid debris at a UN-run school sheltering displaced people following an Israeli strike amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, in Gaza City, July 18, 2024 (Reuters/Dawoud Abu Alkas photo)
Paul Kagame waving to supporters during the launch of his presidential campaign in Musanze,
Anti-quota supporters clash with police and Awami League supporters at the Rampura area in Dhaka, Bangladesh, July 18, 2024 (Reuters/Mohammad Ponir Hossain photo)
DAILY HOROSCOPES
Snap up any opportunity that comes your way. Use your intelligence, ingenuity and ability to beat anyone trying to compete with you. Arrange to do something entertaining with a loved one.
Stick close to home and make changes that simplify your life. A change of plans will leave you in the lurch. Don't pay for someone else's mistake. Set the record straight.
20-May 20) (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
Pay attention to how you present yourself. Update your look, pick up a new hobby or plan a day trip that will offer insight into personal growth and a better lifestyle. Consider the possibilities.
Take nothing for granted. Distance yourself from anyone trying to pressure you to adopt their beliefs. Let your originality shine and stand up for what's right. You will make a difference.
Stay tuned in and ready to move out of the line of fire. Refrain from getting caught in other people's drama or taking the fall for something you didn't do. It's up to you to maintain control.
Be open to information and change, but don't let anyone push you in a direction that benefits them more than you. It's in your best interest to take the path that leads to progress.
Take the initiative to get things done and live up to your promises before someone complains or criticizes you. A connection you make looks inviting.
Put your differences aside and take care of business. Use your creativity and intuition to attract interest. Don't believe everything you hear, and don't take the first offer that comes along.
A clear mind will help you sort through what's feasible and worthwhile. Pay attention to what things cost and how to get the most for your money. Love and romance are in the stars.
Stick to the truth, set goals, establish what you are willing to do and entertain the people who can help you. Be proactive; you'll gain respect and interest in your achievements.
Take care of domestic issues and make your surroundings more functional. Sorting through any differences you have with a loved one will bring you closer together.
A change will offer a different perspective regarding new possibilities. Participate in activities that require discipline and imagination, and you will shine.
PEANUTS
…says
CGLDA’s Dr
hief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), renowned veterinarian Dr. Dwight Waldron, is advising horse owners to work closely with their respective vets to ensure the health and welfare of their horses.
With the 16th running of the Guyana Cup slated for August 11 -- less than one month away -- Dr. Waldron explained that, during this period, horses should have already been fully vaccinated, and foals/ yearlings should have already been placed on a strict antiparasitic programme.
“The welfare of these animals is critical in reducing stress during this period of harsh environmental conditions. There is a dire need for more evidence-based medicine to be adopted within the industry,” Dr. Waldron explained.
Dwight Waldron
Although sharing his professional opinion on what veterinary services need to be done for horses at this time, Dr Waldron is also aware that there is need for legislative instruments to be introduced to regulate the sport of horse racing. In this regard, he said concerning his professional advice stated above, “This will be difficult (to implement) without the necessary legislative instruments (welfare & horse racing bills).”
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, in an interview last month, disclosed that the drafted legislation has been submitted.
“It is completed in terms of the draft. It has already been approved to move to the sub-committee. In the next few weeks, the sub-committee will review (it) in detail. Once it is approved and finalized,
it is then approved to be laid (in) Parliament, then we have a debate,” Minister Ramson had explained.
The 16th staging of the Guyana Cup is organized by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing
Horses should be fully vaccinated, placed on strict antiparasitic programme
Committee, and more than $40 million in cash would be expended as prizes. The winning horse of the feature race would be rewarded with a whopping sum of $11,625,000.
Last year’s Guyana Cup saw total prize money of $24 million being expended across all races, while the horse that won the feature event was rewarded with $10 million.
According to organizers, the 2024 Guyana Cup Meet would certainly be the biggest, and the day will be packed with side attractions. The first-ever fun park is set to ignite the Rising Sun Turf Club, where kids would witness a parading bar on spot, and multiple stages will be set up across the venue.
Ten races are listed on the provisional programme, entries would be open from July 27 to August 3, and
no late entries would be accepted at this year’s Guyana Cup. In addition to the feature event, which would be contested over 1800 metres, other races on the provisional card include: the 1600-metre derby, 1000-metre Sprint
‘Learn to swim’ Region Six registration closes today
Rohit and Kohli to play in ODI series in Sri Lanka
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been selected in India’s ODI squad to contest the upcoming series in Sri Lanka, which is one of their two 50-over assignments scheduled before the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Rohit and Kohli have both spent time abroad with their families after the T20 World Cup felicitation event in Mumbai on July 4. There was speculation they would skip the tour of Sri Lanka and return only for the start of the home season in September, but they are now part of the 15-man squad for the series.
Jasprit Bumrah has been rested for the entire tour, while Hardik Pandya, who missed out on the T20I captaincy, will feature in just the T20I leg.
Shreyas Iyer, who lost out on a BCCI central contract earlier this year, has been picked in the ODI squad. KL Rahul also returns after a long injury layoff. He is one of two frontline wicketkeepers, along with Rishabh Pant, who last played an ODI prior to his car accident in December 2022.
Shubman Gill is India’s vice-captain Shubman Gill has been elevated to the vice-captaincy in both white-ball formats, following his captaincy stint with a second-string squad in Zimbabwe, where India won 4-1. Gill’s also been prolific with the bat in ODIs of late; he’s the second-highest run-getter worldwide in the format since the start of 2023.
With Hardik absent from the ODIs, seam-bowling allrounder Shivam Dube, whose only ODI so far was in 2019,
has earned a recall. Dube’s stocks in T20 cricket have grown considerably since IPL 2023, when he made a name for himself as an enforcer against spin for Chennai Super Kings.
The selectors have also rewarded Riyan Parag by picking him in both formats. His elevation in ODI can be looked at as a reward for his domestic form; he was the leading run-getter in the Deodhar Trophy, as well as the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20s, where he made seven straight half-centuries while leading Assam to their first-ever semifinal.
Fast bowler Harshit Rana has also been handed a maiden ODI call-up. Rana was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL-winning side of 2024, and finished as his side’s joint second-highest wicket-taker, with 19 scalps in 13 outings.
The pace attack will be spearheaded by Mohammed Siraj, with Arshdeep Singh
and Khaleel Ahmed completing it. Washington Sundar’s Player-of-the-Series performance in Zimbabwe has earned him a berth in both squads for the Sri Lanka tour; he’s one of two spin-bowling allrounders alongside Axar Patel.
Ravindra Jadeja, who (like Rohit and Kohli) is now retired from T20Is, did not make the ODI squad.
No Kuldeep, Abhishek for T20Is
As many as nine members from the young squad that won 4-1 in Zimbabwe earlier this month have been picked for the Sri Lanka T20Is. They are led by new captain Suryakumar Yadav. Gill, who led in Zimbabwe, is likely to open the batting alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal as part of India’s T20 World Cupwinning squad.
Sanju Samson has retained his place (a second option with the gloves alongside Pant), but there was no
room for Ruturaj Gaikwad or Abhishek Sharma, who struck a 46-ball hundred in just his second T20I in Zimbabwe.
Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube are likely to be options as finishers. Kuldeep Yadav will play the ODIs, but has not been picked for the T20Is, leaving Ravi Bishnoi as the frontline wristspinner. There has also been no place for Yuzvendra Chahal, who didn’t feature in a single game in either squad during India’s World Cup campaign.
India’s tour of Sri Lanka is the first assignment for new coach Gautam Gambhir, who was appointed after Rahul Dravid’s tenure ended with the T20 World Cup. The tour begins with three T20Is in Pallekele on July 27, 28 and 30, followed by three ODIs in Colombo on August 2, 4 and 7.
India squad for Sri Lanka ODIs - Rohit Sharma (capt), Shubman Gill (vicecapt), Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, Khaleel Ahmed, Harshit Rana.
India squad for Sri Lanka T20Is - Suryakumar Yadav (capt), Shubman Gill (vice-capt), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, Riyan Parag, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohammed Siraj. (ESPNCricinfo)
Tto swim’ pro gramme in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) has so far seen scores of persons taking advan tage of the free opportu nity to equip themselves with the life skill and registering to participate.
Considered one of the flagship programmes of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS), in collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC), the ‘Learn to swim’ programme now caters for adults and children aged six years old and above. Sessions are currently being held at the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) pool in the Albion Estate compound.
Region Six Sports Officer Randy Mangru explained that the programme introduces participants to the basic techniques of swimming. He noted that swimming is not only a form of athletics, but is also a lifesaving technique; and because of its popularity, the programme has now become an annual feature in several regions.
According to Mangru, at the National Schools’ Athletics Championships of the Ministry of Education (MoE), Region Six has been unable to field athletes in the swimming category.
“This programme has proven to be beneficial. Since it commenced, we have had athletes to send to swim at the Ministry of Education’s National Athletics Championships, to participate and represent Region Six,” he noted.
He also declared that today (Friday) is the last day to register for participation in this year’s programme.
Meanwhile, Angela DeSouza who learnt of the programme through the Education Ministry’s Facebook page, has registered her three kids: 14, 8 and 7 years old, to participate in the programme.
She told this publication that neither she nor her husband knows how to swim. The skills her children are now acquiring might become useful one day, she said.
“I am going to register myself too,” she further stated. (G4)
ENTERTAINMENT
“You are never too old or too young to learn to swim. I am urging persons to go on the Ministry’s Facebook page and register,” Mangru has admonished. The programme would be ongoing until the end on July.
Renowned veterinarian Dr Dwight Waldron, CEO of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA)
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been named in the ODI team for India’s series against Sri Lanka
Scenes from the ‘Learn to swim’ programme in Region 6
Juniors hold their own in Pan Am Chess Championships
Members of the eight-member contingent fielded by the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) to contest the Pan American Youth Championships XXXIV in Orlando, Florida are holding their own among international counterparts.
After five rounds of play, Sachin Pitamber is in 15th place with 3 points in the U14 Open, while Kyle Couchman is in 17th place with 2.5 points in the U16 Open.
In round one, Kyle Couchman defeated FM Nathan Yan, FIDE rated 2200, and in round four he defeated Jamaica’s Zuberi Edwards, rated 1642. In round five, Couchman earned a half-point after he drew with Trinidad’s Kael Samuel Bisnauth, whom he had defeated last year in the CAC Youth Chess Festival.
Aditi Joshi, competing in the Girls U14, is on 2.5 points after defeating Sara Vasquez and Tsahai Clarke,
from Panama and Jamaica respectively. Joshi earned a half-point after draw ing her game with Keytleen Troya of Panama.
Jeremy Cole, competing in the U12 Open, is on 1.5 points after he won against USA’s Polo Davila and earned a draw with Julian Rasch of the Cayman Islands.
Kataleya Sam is on two points, having earned a victory over Aruba’s Aaradhya Manchani in the U12 Girls category.
ty for the younger players to experience their first interna
Saura Ruplall is on 1.5 points after a bye and a draw with Costa Rica’s Elena Mayorga in round five of the U10 girls’ category. Maliha Rajkumar, playing in the U16 Girls, and Vir Narine, competing in the U10 Open, are both on one point.
each category represented by the Guyanese juniors.
This tournament presents a valuable opportuni-
tional competition. It allows them to test their skills against players from other countries, and learn from their opponents. The heavily contested tournament has mostly FIDE-rated players in each category. Three rounds remain for
Tof the Streets’ West/ East Bank Demerara edition will commence this evening at the Pouderoyen Tarmac with only four teams remaining after conclusion of the quarterfinal round.
In the opening semifinal fixture, at 20:00hrs, Cayenne Massive will lock horns with defending champions Ballerz Empire. Cayenne Massive have been in a clinical mood during the tournament, and have registered commanding victories over ESPN and Family by scores of 5-0.
On the other hand, Ballerz Empire have battled their way into the semifinals following a 2-1 victory over Sunshine Ballers and a 2-0 win over Epic Touch Family.
The second semifinal fixture will pit Jetty Gunners against three-time champions Showstoppers in a match
Jetty Gunners secured their place in the semifinal stage by wins over Pouderoyen Brothers and No Mercy by the identical score of 2-0.
On the other hand, Showstoppers defeated Westside Ballers 2-0 and crushed Goal Getters 3-0 in their previous matches, to send a strong warning to the field.
Eventual winners would advance to the final, while the losers would contest the third-place playoff. The tournament winner would secure an automatic berth to the National Championships in September.
Event coordinator Travis ‘Zoti’ Bess has said, “The tournament has produced quality encounters, with some unexpected results occurring, which highlights the ever-improving quality of the
two of the usual suspects in Showstoppers and Ballerz Empire in the semifinals, and two teams who are relatively new to this stage, which (bodes) well for the growth of the tournament.
“I expect another competitive and exciting night. The fans have been very receptive and supportive of the event, which is evident by the large and increasing turnouts since the event commenced two weeks prior. All systems are in place for an exciting conclusion as the teams vie for the opportunity to represent the zone at the National Championships… scheduled for September. Once again, I would like to thank the fans for coming out and supporting their respective teams, and we hope that continues throughout the event and until the conclusion of the event’s season.”
Participating in these international events allows the young chess players to put their training into practice and gain exposure to diverse playing styles.
Although many countries and languages are represented in the Pan Am Chess Championships, chess remains a universal language to which each player can relate, regardless of geographic background.
The United States Chess Federation has organized the event in partnership with the Confederation of Chess for the Americas, the International Chess Federation (FIDE), and the Rosen Shingle Creek playing venue.
Following the successful hosting of the Third Annual ExxonMobil Inter-School Kayaking Competition last Saturday at the Watooka House in Linden, organizer Deon Anderson has been ecstatic about the dedication of the participating teams, and support received from the spectators.
With their ability to move swiftly through the water, District 10, who finished with 71 points, walked away with a $400,000 grand prize. District 9, the 2023 Champions, had posed a threat to the title winners, but have had to settle for second place and a $250,000 reward. District 7 was forced to settle for third place and $150,000.
In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times Sport, event organizer Deon Anderson expressed gratitude for the large participation of youths among the districts and the skills they displayed.
“We are feeling elated to have all of these regions here present to witness our Third Annual Inter-District Kayaking Competition sponsored by our title sponsor ExxonMobil. And to see all these youths come out in their numbers to support and participate and showcase their talent; not only their talent, but to showcase their skillset that they practice in every aspect of their liveli-
hood, their day-to-day lives; to bring it here in a competition level, we feel very elated, and we see very interesting competition happening. Right now, we have three districts that are neck-and-neck, that is: District 9 - Rupununi, we have District 7, and of course we have district 10 and District 2. So, when you look at these areas - these are areas that have a lot of rural communities, well-known for things like regatta and so forth so - interestingly, they are leading in the competition,” Anderson detailed. Anderson went on to divulge that safety has been a number one priority, and the emphasis in that regard has been placed on the competition. Anderson divulged, “Well, when it comes to safety, we ensure that is our number one priority. So, we have lifeguards on the water-top, we have lifeguards on the jet skis, we have lifeguards in the boats; but also we have (a) mobile medical unit on the water ambulance, where we have doctors and nurses and so on to render assistance. Even in some of the races, we had participants who didn’t feel that they could make it to the finish line, and the medical personnel are there for assistance, so that they can be comfortable and, you know, also feel well throughout the entire competition. So safety
is intact, and you can never be too safe, so we would ensure that this continues to be covered at all times.”
He also shared on the behind-the-scenes staff and the importance of corporate sponsorship towards the successful hosting of this competition.
“It’s a lot of work, but I must say kudos to the team; they have really been supportive, and they are good team players to pull this event off. We were extremely happy to get the moral support of our Prime Minister today, where he delivered the feature address and declared the sports open. Of course, like our corporate sponsorship: the Guyana Tourism Authority; Ministry of Tourism; our ExxonMobil title sponsors; SLB, who have been our inaugural sponsors; as well as the support from our students from our community, we couldn’t have asked for anything more. So, it’s a lot of feeling right now, a lot of excitement, a lot of competition and healthy rivalry going on,” Anderson told this publication.
This competition has seen participation from 10 districts from the North West District, Essequibo Coast/ Pomeroon, West Coast Berbice, West Coast Demerara, Corentyne, Bartica, Potaro/Siparuni, Rupununi, Upper Demerara, and New Amsterdam. (Omar McKenzie)
A look at the action thus far in the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ West Demerara leg
Kataleya Sam participating in the Pan Am Youth Championships
Guyana’s Junior contingent at the Pan Am Youth Championships in Florida
The 2024 Champions of ExxonMobil Inter-District Kayaking Tournament, District 10
Richards-Botham Test series 2024: Test 2 of 3…
to 416 on high-paced first day
Ollie Pope’s century, combined with fifties from Ben Duckett and Ben Stokes, led England to a strong position on the opening day of the second Test, as West Indies were left to regret squandered opportunities at Trent Bridge.
Pope built on a blistering start by Duckett, who peppered the boundary on his way to 71 off just 59 balls. The duo shared a 105run stand for the second wicket, after Zak Crawley fell to the third ball of the match, lined up by Alzarri Joseph with a back-of-a-length delivery which drew a chunky edge and flew to Alick Athanaze at third slip.
Pope went on to reach 121 off 167 balls, his sixth Test century and second this year, after his 196 against India in January. Stokes made 69 before he sent Kavem Hodge’s 14th ball straight to deep midwicket, with England at 342 for 6.
from Alzarri Joseph with three consecutive fours, before being dropped on 24 at gully.
Brook had arrived at 142 for 3 when Joe Root fell shortly after lunch to a fluffed pull which flew straight to mid-on.
toe-end high towards midwicket, where Kirk McKenzie swallowed the catch.
Pope brought up his century with four off Seales over square leg; then, adding to West Indies’ woes, Shamar Joseph
Left-arm spinner Hodge had entered the attack in the 68th over, and ended up with 2 for 44 off 10 overs, with a hand in two more dismissals, catching both Pope and Gus Atkinson in the slips.
Stokes, Jamie Smith and
Seales’s heart was in his mouth as Alzarri Joseph juggled the ball twice before grabbing it for good.
Brook moved to 30 with an effortless six over deep point off Alzarri Joseph, and, up to then,
SCOREBOARD
hobbled off the field midway through his 12th over - the last before tea - clutching a cramping left leg. The tourists could take some comfort from Pope’s dismissal, however, as he drove at Alzarri Joseph and the ball
ing Holder for four through deep third. It was Sinclair and Shamar Joseph who found some control for West Indies after the first drinks break, but Duckett threatened to break free when he lunged forward to sweep a full delivery from Sinclair for four to bring up England’s hundred, and he punished a wide one from Shamar Joseph through the covers. Shamar Joseph finally broke through when he drew an outside edge from Duckett, and Holder held on at second slip. (ESPNCricinfo)
Smith had put on 61 runs with Stokes, smashing Hodge for six beyond deep midwicket
ing another down the ground, but Hodge responded next ball
lar shot and picking out Holder in the deep, continuing the trend
After surviving a missed stumping, Mark Wood was dropped by Mikyle Louis as he dived forward at point off er unwanted theme for West
ond new ball after 86 overs, and Jayden Seales and Alzarri Joseph used it to prise out the last two wickets, Chris Woakes
rival of his first child, Duckett had been supremely focused in the middle. He found the boundary four times in a ond over, two glorious ending a cut in front of point and a clip through self to two more in Seales’s next over, and another off Alzarri Joseph brought up England’s fifty in just 26 balls, the fastest
Holder conceded just one run when he was brought on in the sixth over, but was soon dispatched over extra cover by Duckett, who brought up his
…After disappointing Copa America performance
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz have fallen six places in the latest FIFA global rankings, following a dismal performance in the 2024 Copa America tournament.
The recent rankings, released on Wednesday, also saw drops for other CONCACAF teams, with the USA and Mexico slipping down the order.
The Reggae Boyz, now ranked 59th globally after slipping six places, faced a string of defeats in the tournament, losing 1-0 to Mexico, 3-0 to Venezuela, and 3-1 to Mexico as they finished at the bottom of Group B. This poor showing prompted immediate repercussions, with Head Coach Heimir Hallgrímsson resigning post-tournament. Hallgrímsson has since accepted a new role as the Head Coach of the Republic
Ecuador.
The USA, previously the highest-ranked CONCACAF team, slipped five places to 16th. Their Copa America cam
Jesse Marsch, Canada’s journey in the tournament included a second-place finish in Group A, with a win, a loss, and a draw. They advanced to the knockout stages and eliminated Venezuela 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation. Although they lost 2-0 to Argentina in the semi-finals and succumbed to Uruguay in the third-place playoff, their
Kavem Hodge bagged Ben Stokes for his first Test wicket
Ben Duckett brought up his fifty off just 32 balls
Shamar Joseph walked off the field mid-over with a hamstring injury
