Guyana Times - Friday, November 8, 2024

GGDMA urges miners to boost 2024 production as gold targets slip behind …says

drought, labour woes slow production

Striving to keep up with the 2024 gold production targets already set out, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) is calling on gold miners to ramp up production and redouble their efforts to reach the 2024 annual production target of 500,000 ounces.

On Thursday, the GGDMA in a statement said that various factors have contributed to the snail pace of gold production.

According to the mining body, 2024 has already been a relatively tough year, with challenges related to the pro -

longed drought and labour shortages.

The association, however, expects that the industry can still deliver on the targets set.

Additionally, the GGDMA is also reminding miners that gold must be sold only to the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) or an authorised buyer.

An authorised buyer may be a Dealer licensed by the GGB or persons/ entities who are Licensed Traders in gold as authorised by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). This includes the recently-established office which is temporarily located at the GGMC com -

pound in Lethem.

The GGDMA recognizes that there are inherent dangers of working in the mining sector and will continue to work with the government and security forces to address improvements to security and safety. The issue of border security is not native to Guyana only, but it is a problem that affects even the much more developed countries of North America and Europe.

On this point, the GGDMA is reminding miners that they should ensure that proper documentation and a periodic statement of their transactions are received from the Licensed Gold Dealer.

These statements should be with the gold dealer’s records presented to the GGB. This verification is important since it will ensure that the gold is properly accounted for and that miners’ taxes are

being correctly paid to the Government.

The GGDMA said that it continued to support the Government as it addresses issues within the sector.

Gold mining remains a major source of foreign exchange for the Guyana economy and all efforts must be made to ramp up expansion and production. The sector provides a livelihood for more than 50,000 persons.

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, November 8 – 21:30h-23:00h and Saturday, November 9 –23:00h-00:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, November 8 – 08:35h-10:05h and Saturday, November 9 –10:00h-11:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.

WEATHER TODAY

Sunshine is expected during the day, interrupted by light to thundery showers in the morning hours. Clear to partly cloudy skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 3.12 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 09:05h and 21:27h reaching maximum heights of 2.13 metres and 2.22 metres.

Low Tide: 14:53h reaching a minimum height of 1.13 metres.

AFC has rigging, hundreds of other things to apologise for – Jagdeo to Hughes

…rubbishes AFC calls for referendum on APNU/AFC's lopsided 2016 oil contract

ice President and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo at a recent press conference on Thursday responded to Alliance For Change (AFC) leader Nigel Hughes' question about what his party should apologise for. Jagdeo asserted there were "hundreds of things" the AFC should apologise for, with election rigging at the top of the list.

Jagdeo pointed out the active role the AFC and its surrogates played in trying to rig the 2020 election, including a list of dead people the AFC claimed voted during the election. This list has already been disproved, with Jagdeo recalling that some of these persons were found to be alive and well, including by Guyana Times

“Nigel Hughes has refused to apologise for the AFC’s role in trying to rig the last elections. He couldn’t find a single thing to apologise for. He wanted specifics on what he should apologise. We can find 100 things for the AFC to apologise for. But the key issues – their role in trying to steal the election and trying to thwart the will of the people.

“If he doesn’t see that, as egregiously wrong. If he doesn’t see stealing elections as something reprehensible. If he doesn’t see this as unconstitutional behaviour to condemn. Then he is not fit to lead a political party, because it’s a party based on deception and lies. And all his talk about decency in politics, it is just that – talk,” Jagdeo said.

In a bold statement at the AFC weekly press conference on Friday last, Hughes had declared that the AFC stood firmly by its actions during the tumultuous aftermath of Guyana’s 2020 elections and has nothing to apologise for.

During the 2020 elections, the AFC was a member of the then coalition Government with A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), which faced massive accusations of undermining the electoral process. For five months following the March 2 elections, the APNU/AFC coalition employed various delay tactics, including filing multiple court cases to stall the official declaration of results, which were ultimately confirmed through a Caricomled national recount.

Referendum

Then there is the matter of the referendum, with recent calls from the AFC for a referendum on whether the Government should renegotiate the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with ExxonMobil. However, Jagdeo pointed out that AFC was the very same party, in the person of former Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman, who

signed the 2016 agreement.

Jagdeo reiterated the PPP/Civic’s position that it was not in favour of a referendum for next year, making it clear that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), which would hypothetically be tasked with carrying out the massive preparations a referendum necessitates, has to focus on preparing for the next General and Regional Elections and be in a state of readiness by next year August.

According to the Vice President, AFC would love to have GECOM divert its attention from the upcoming election. Jagdeo noted, however, that the PPP/C would not be sucked into AFC’s trap, even as the smaller party scrambles for issues to latch on to, to generate support.

“They have very little to offer people. They’re trying to find a couple issues to mobilise themselves around causes. One of the new causes. That’s why Patterson, the people who signed the 2016 contract, want referendum now. He and the WPA [Working People’s

Alliance]… they want referendum now. They want to obfuscate the key issues. They don’t want to talk about delivery of house lots to people, fulfilling their dream of owning their own home.

“They don’t want to talk about lower mortgage rates. They don’t want to talk about assistance in building, core homes or young professional homes. They don’t want to talk about ex-

pansion of health care – 12 new hospitals. They don’t want to talk about the 12, 13 new water treatment plants and the inline iron removal plants that we’re building. or the 200 kilometres of transmission main. Or the investment in power.”

Silly Ramjattan

Jagdeo also blasted another senior figure in the AFC, former leader Khemraj Ramjattan, who had recently made an outlandish claim that during the 2020 General and Regional Elections, Jagdeo had been spotted talking in Russian to the Russians who the

smaller party had claimed were in Guyana to rig the election.

Jagdeo debunked such claims and questioned whether a case could be made against Ramjattan, who was the then Public Security Minister, for malfeasance in public office, after his public admission that these ‘Russians’ were deported for the alleged crime of engaging in a conversation with a public official.

“First of all, I never spoke with anyone in Russian or with Russians in Russian at the Marriott… and secondly, assuming there was a conspiracy to do this, would I be doing it in the lobby of a hotel?” Jagdeo questioned. Additionally, Jagdeo pointed out that Guyana’s elections are paper based, unlike other countries that use electronic voting which make them susceptible to hacking. “They deported four maybe unsuspecting persons. They just picked them up and sent them off, that may be malfeasance in public office. How can you be so silly?”

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

AFC leader Nigel Hughes AFC co-founder Khemraj Ramjattan

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Empowering young minds

In a significant development for educational resources in Guyana, Education Minister Priya Manickchand recently led the opening of a new library at Hampton Court Primary School, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam). This initiative aligns with an ongoing drive to improve educational infrastructure and create opportunities for intellectual and personal growth among young people.

The library is more than just a repository of books; it is a dedicated space designed to foster a love of reading and learning. With an initial collection of approximately 460 books spanning various genres and educational topics, the Hampton Court library offers young learners and the community an invaluable resource. This space is expected to contribute significantly to the academic development of students, providing them with tools to expand their knowledge and imagination beyond the classroom.

Libraries play a unique role in nurturing literacy, critical thinking, and lifelong learning skills, especially in primary education. Minister Manickchand highlighted this when she discussed the role of libraries in supporting both academic and personal growth for students. The presence of a library encourages students to explore diverse perspectives and ideas, and enhances their comprehension, language, and analytical skills. Libraries, as knowledge hubs, offer students opportunities to deepen their understanding of subjects and discover new interests — something textbooks alone may not achieve.

Beyond its physical resources, the Hampton Court library aims to be a centre for various educational activities and initiatives. This multifaceted approach reflects a vision of holistic education that integrates reading, digital literacy, and interactive learning. By providing access to computers and other multimedia resources, the library equips students with digital skills that are essential in today’s information-driven society. Access to a diverse range of learning tools would allow young people to become comfortable with technology while learning how to research and evaluate information effectively.

This initiative comes at a time when educational resources are needed more than ever, especially in rural areas, where access to books and learning materials is very crucial. Through projects like this, the Education Ministry is seeking to bridge educational gaps and provide equal learning opportunities for students across Guyana. By investing in libraries, the Government aims to foster a culture of literacy and intellectual curiosity in the younger generation, making education accessible to all, regardless of location.

One cannot overstate the importance of encouraging young people to read, not only for academic purposes, but also for their personal development. Reading cultivates empathy, stimulates the imagination, and sharpens the mind, helping young readers to understand and connect with people and ideas from diverse backgrounds. Research shows that children who read regularly exhibit stronger cognitive abilities, better problem-solving skills, and increased adaptability, qualities that prepare them to navigate life’s challenges more effectively.

In today’s digital world, where screen time often surpasses time spent with books, initiatives like this library are critical to instilling a love for reading in young minds. When children read, they are invited into worlds created by authors, where they can learn empathy, understand emotions, and grapple with complex ideas. This mental exercise improves focus, enriches vocabulary, and sharpens critical thinking - skills crucial to personal and professional success.

Encouraging young people to read from a young age provides them with the foundation to become lifelong learners. By immersing themselves in books, they can develop curiosity and a sense of wonder, which are essential traits for innovation and progress. Libraries play a critical role in supporting this habit by offering a variety of genres, topics, and reading levels, allowing each student to explore stories and ideas that resonate with them personally.

The Hampton Court library serves as a reminder that communities thrive when they have access to resources that promote education and literacy. When students have a space in which they can learn freely, they become more engaged, motivated, and prepared for future endeavours. The library would undoubtedly serve as a hub where young minds gather, exchange ideas, and inspire one another; a place where knowledge is not just acquired, but shared and celebrated.

Through reading, young people can find their passions, develop empathy, and understand the world in greater depth.

Why did voters abandon Kamala Harris? Because they feel trapped – and Trump offered a way out

Since we’ll hear a lot again about “populism”, let’s remember again that 19th-century US populism had a healthy strain of leftwing politics. Defending workers, riling up bankers, decrying the “cross of gold” and economic conservatism: look past his Bible-bashing, and William Jennings Bryan was a precursor to Franklin Roosevelt. Yet, for much of this election year, the populists’ modern-day successors in the Democrats have served up anti-populism: telling voters they were wrong.

Americans were told they were wrong to see the corrosion of Joe Biden’s abilities, and wrong to think that his replacement should not be decided in a giant backroom stitch-up. They were wrong not to enjoy the US economic miracle, and wrong not to worry about the future of democracy.

Black and brown people and students were wrong to expect the party to oppose the bloodbath in Gaza. Latinos were ungrateful to desert the party of racial equality, while Black men were boneheaded not to back a Black woman. Everyone was wrong not to lap up the rallies opened by Beyoncé and Usher, the skits on Saturday Night Live, and that clip of Barack Obama rapping. Why couldn’t they just feel the joy?

For reasons I’ll explain in a moment, I’m no fan of explanations that begin and end with the bogeyman of “populism”. They almost always wind up with welllunched commentators ventriloquising the opinions of people they’ve never talked to, and in whose worlds

they’ve never set foot.

Look at the exit polls and you see a materialist explanation for what’s just happened: two out of three US voters report their economy is bad. And they have an excellent point. As I wrote last month, look at the data over the long run, and two big trends stand out.

First, for the vast majority of US employees – whether middle class or working class, teacher or shop assistant – wages have flatlined. Not for four or even 20 years, but for most of the past half century. Strip out inflation, and average hourly earnings for seven out of 10 employees have barely risen since Richard Nixon was in the White House.

I can’t think of a more flammable political economy than a country with a few very rich people, where most workers only get by because of low gas and food prices. Then what happens? A second blow. Covid peters out, the world comes out of lockdown and low-wage America is doused in that most combustible of economic substances: inflation. The entire system goes up –and Donald Trump spots his chance.

Faced with the flames, what would be a left-populist response? It wouldn’t be to resort to pedantry, to correct angry voters by showing them the aggregate figures – but that’s what many Democrat supporters did. Nor would it be to roll back all the benefits extended over the pandemic: the improved child tax credit, Medicaid and unemployment insurance. But that’s what Joe Biden did, even as he shovelled billions into infrastructure.

The electoral result was that working- and middle-class voters peeled away from the Democrats. Kamala Harris won the most affluent voters, while Trump took those earning between $50,000 (£39,000) and $100,000 (£77,000). The two tied for those on $50,000 and below. So much for Harris being part of the most pro-worker government since the 1960s.

Just as the electorate professed fury with the entire political and economic system, she and the Democrats made themselves the system’s defenders. They weren’t about change, but more of the same. They worried about the future of “democracy”; they warned about disrupting free trade. Harris’s slogan of “We’re not going back” said it all: a campaign defined by being anti-Trump rather than for anything. A strategy intended to woo “moderates” left nearly everyone cold.

Harris started her campaign differently, by promising to hunt down price-gouging corporates. That policy was popular, but there was little else. She went policy-lite so as to present Trump with less of a target. Among the supporters she wheeled out this autumn was the billionaire Mark Cuban.

In a country where the richest 0.1% own nearly 20% of all wealth – almost as much as 90% of Americans put together – this is almost the definition of anti-populist politics.

We probably won’t hear much about billionaires over the next few days. If the commentariat’s form from 2016 is anything to go by, the sketch would be of angry left-behinds and rednecks

rallying to a strongman. Never mind that last night’s exit polls showed Trump as personally less popular than Harris, or that more than half of voters judge his views to be “too extreme”. Not to mention that Trump is easily the richest man ever to serve in the White House, with a personal net worth of about $5.5bn (£4.3bn).

A marketing man skilled at targeting discontent, Trump does not follow his crowds. Rather, he is led by the money men around him: the fossil fuel executives, the shadow bankers, the crypto bros, and the world’s richest man, Elon Musk.

Mitt Romney and George W Bush could always rely on some stuffed shirts from the Fortune 500 to hand over a few tens of thousands. But Trump’s donor class is very different. They include men like Stephen Schwarzman, head of the world’s largest private equity firm, Blackstone; billionaire investor Nelson Peltz, and Silicon Valley’s David Sacks. They’re not company men building relationships, but, as Trump styles himself, dealmakers. This lot has shelled out a lot more to get in Trump (Musk alone has spent an estimated $100m), and expect their money’s worth.

“They’re less concerned about the photo op and a visit to the White House,” as one former bagman for Trump told the New Yorker. “They want to essentially get their issues in the White House.” (Excerpted from The Guardian) (Aditya Chakrabortty is a Guardian columnist)

President Dr Irfaan Ali welcomed Finnish Ambassador to Guyana and Caricom, Pertti Ikonen, for a courtesy visit focused on strengthening collaboration, particularly in trade between Guyana, the European Union, and Finland. President Ali highlighted Guyana's ambitious development goals and the Government's commitment to economic expansion through innovative diversification strategies (Office of the President photo)

Congratulations to Presidentelect Donald Trump

Dear Editor,

The New York-based Guyana Democracy Project (GDP) has issued a statement congratulating Donald Trump on his re-election as President of USA. Trump served as President between January 2017 and January 2021, when Joe Biden was declared the winner.

Trump defeated Kamala Harris, Biden’s Vice President, who replaced him as the Democratic nominee for the White House, and will be sworn-in on January 20, 2025 for a second and final term after those four years’ gap.

NYGDP was founded years ago to promote and defend democracy in Guyana, and to strengthen ties between Guyana and USA.

The NYGDP noted in its statement that Mr. Trump, as President and as candidate for re-election in 2020 and throughout the last four years, has remained a friend of the Guyanese people in America and in Guyana. The statement makes reference to the role of the Trump Administration in protecting democracy in Guyana during its March 2020 elections, when multiple attempts were made over a five-month period to rig the election. The Trump Administration saved democracy in Guyana.

“We (meaning GDP members and supporters) are true allies and promoters and defenders of democracy”, the statement noted.

The statement also urges that America and Guyana continue to work closely to strengthen democratic governance in the South American nation, to consolidate the friendship that exists between

the people of the two nations, and that they enter into a strategic alliance on common interests.

It states: “Working together, we can increase trade and build on the fruitful and productive partnership on strengthening democracy in Guyana and security arrangements between our nations”.

The statement reads: “Our organization (NYGDP) congratulates Mr. Donald Trump on his election success as the 47th President of the great USA, and JD Vance as Vice President. Your election victory is the biggest political comeback in political history globally. Your election showed the world the strength of American values on democracy and when out one can make a comeback. It is a much-needed victory for the World! It is a remarkable political comeback, a historic return to the White House. You have been a friend of Guyana and the Guyanese people in USA during your first term. You protected democracy via free and fair elections in Guyana when it was challenged. We are natural allies as democracies. And when our democracy was under threat, you came to the rescue. You defended and saved democracy in our former homeland.

NYGDP recognizes that America is an important trade, strategic, and defense partner of Guyana. America also remains one of Guyana’s largest sources of foreign investment and a vital player in our country. And the relationship is based on the ide-

als we share: namely, liberalism, open economy, freedom, and democracy. We must increase trade between our two countries.

“Trump, your renewed Presidency offers greater opportunities between our two countries on a partnership. Our organization vows to work closely with your (Trump) Administration to promote strengthen ties between Guyana and USA. Our shared goal is to ensure that the relations between our countries remain friendly and strong, and that we continue to develop them for mutual benefit and prosperity. We seek to build on a strategic partnership that started in late 2020 during your term.

Our organization looks forward to working closely with your Administration to further expanding and strengthening relations between our countries in order to successfully meet challenges in Guyana, the Caribbean, and Northeast South American region.

We look forward to working with you to further strengthen the relationship between our two countries during your term and to promote peace and prosperity globally. We look forward to close cooperation with Guyana on shared interests. We also urge you to use your considerable influence to help end the wars in Ukraine and Middle East.

“May God bless America and Guyana, and May the Lord guide the President Elect”.

Yours faithfully, Vishnu Bisram

Need for fair treatment and respect for Guyanese oil sector workers

Dear Editor, The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), through our Oil & Gas Branch, stands in solidarity with the sixty-five (65) young, qualified and experienced Guyanese workers who, without any indication, were recently rendered jobless, and are now clueless about what their tomorrows hold.

The workers, who were engaged in works related to the heavily touted gas-to-shore energy project, were employed by a well-known operator in the sector on one-year contracts. However, they are now placed on the breadline after a mere five (5) months on the job. The now jobless workers shared with the GAWU that there was no information really forthcoming, with vague references to certain clauses in their contract and the “slowing down of work”.

These obviously now distressed Guyanese were excited to contribute to this national project, and, in some instances, eagerly uprooted themselves in order to be close to their new jobs.

This most recent layoff is yet another indicator of the troubling labour situation and the apparent disregard for workers’ rights and concerns in the burgeoning sector. GAWU’s advocacy is on the record in defence of the rights of all workers. We have, on several occasions, emphasised the need for job security, transparency, and respect for Guyanese workers’ rights and laws.

We had previously warned of this unfolding situation,

which appears to have become more pronounced. The situation has raised alarm in the sector, and there are concerns over whether the short-term employment of locals is used as a means to meet thresholds set out by the Local Content Act. We sincerely hope this is not the case, but cannot condone our Guyanese workers being treated as mere “props” to satisfy quotas.

This incident underscores the efforts of GAWU’s Oil and Gas Branch to advance union protection and recognition in the sector. Local workers undoubtedly need a strong voice to safeguard their jobs and hold their employers accountable for fair treatment. We urge Guyanese to recognise the importance of their rights, and to join us in advocating for stronger protections and decent employment. Certainly, it is not our hope that other workers are victims of similar tactics by their employers. Our Union is steadfast in its commitment to providing leadership, guidance, and representing workers in the sector. We also urge those who hold responsibility to ensure that compliance is not superficial, but translates into genuine, sustained employment for local workers.

Together, we can ensure the respect of Guyanese workers and the positive contribution of the oil and gas sector to our country's development and prosperity.

Sincerely,

Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union

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UG’s 58th convocation ceremony President Ali calls on graduates to lead Guyana into a “golden age of shared prosperity”

The University of Guyana (UG) on Thursday kickstarted its 58th convocation ceremony with the largest batch of students to ever graduate from the prestigious institution – more than 3500.

President Dr Irfaan Ali, in his remarks, pledged support for the graduands, noting that they are the backbone of Guyana’s new economy and urged them to solidify their space in society by bringing fresh ideas to the table.

According to the Head of State, Guyana’s economy is modernising, diversifying, and expanding at a rate never seen before, opening up chances for everyone to participate. However, he noted that innovative minds would propel the nation further.

With this in mind, Ali told the gathering that their skills were needed, highlighting that the graduands are the backbone of the nation and hope for a better and sustainable future.

“We need you to be audacious and for you to bring fresh ideas to the table. As we look to 2030 and beyond, our vision for Guyana demands more than just economic growth. It demands shared prosperity, inclusion and sustainability…We need all of you, whatever your field, whatever your discipline, to play your part,” the Head of State said, adding “the golden age of Guyana is within reach, but it is you, our graduates, who will take the controls and help steer us there. You're the ones that we're counting on to be the cockpit of this great transformation. You're the ones we're counting on to make the dream of shared prosperity a reality. We have high expectations for you and we know they're not misplaced. You've shown by reaching this point that you have what it takes,” Ali said.

According to President Ali, the graduands’ experience at the University of

Guyana has given them a strong foundation, as well as knowledge and skills. He emphasised that education is the secret to opening the door to success.

On this point, he urged them to step forward into new challenges and new opportunities, with passion and an innovative spirit at the forefront.

Ali encouraged them to let their determination and drive lay a foundation for Guyana that can stand tall among the best in the world.

“The oil and gas sector just a few years ago, a distant dream, is now a force that is helping to propel our development. We're solidifying an industrial base, investing in manufacturing and services and creating new opportunities in non-traditional sectors like tourism, innovation, digitisation. This is not just progress, it is structural transformation that will shape the lives of every Guyanese, every citizen for generations to come. In this new Guyana, we need all hands on deck. We need you, our qualified graduates, to be the builders of this new economy”.

He stated: “As you leave here, take pride not only in what you've achieved, but in what you're about to do. This is a moment of enormous promise for Guyana and you are the heart of it. Know that our country believes in you and has great faith in your ability to lead us forward.”

Ali also encouraged the new graduands to continue furthering their studies until they are awarded master’s and PhDs. He noted that the Government’s loan write-off initiative will play a crucial role in this process.

“As you step out into this new chapter, I urge you to make the most of what the future holds. Those who will follow in their footsteps, thousands more who will have the opportunity to

learn, grow, and aspire will do so thanks to the free education of the University of Guyana. And you too will benefit from a complete write-off of your tuition fee, the loan write-off.

“This free education is a demonstration of the Government's commitment to ensuring that every Guyanese have access to world-class education and every Guyanese must have an equal opportunity of earning a degree, a diploma, or a certificate from the University of Guyana. The commitment of free education is not an end in itself. It is the vehicle through which we open doors and expand access for all, but with a resolve to set world-class standards in tertiary education,” the President said.

Binding responsibilities

Meanwhile, Education

Minister Priya Manickchand stated that she believes the graduands’ achievements will encourage them to produce more in their respective fields.

She said that the goals and expectations for the growth of this relatively young country through the calibre of the people it produces shaped the institutional architecture of UG.

“As you now take your place among the thousands who have successfully emerged, we can only hope that you will fully internalise and appreciate the binding responsibilities you now take on as children of Guyana’s soil,” Manickchand noted.

“As you now look across our highly diverse and complex landscape, I fully expect that you will do so through a different lens from when you entered. You are now charged with being problem solvers. The cohort of intrepid, critical-minded trailblazers ushering in a new era of

prosperity.”

Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor John Edward Greene shared similar sentiments, highlighting that Guyanese were becoming specialist in the fields of engineering, agriculture, forestry and environmental science, among others.

“Your skills are rele-

vant to the development of Guyana and the Caricom region in high demand. Our engineers, especially in this new oil and gas economy, are prime examples. Another group is identified with UG’s Institute of Research and Innovation and Entrepreneurship and it is important to note that at their exhibition a couple of months ago that institute demonstrated the vitality of the University of Guyana’s research programmes and

this catapults the university in the global arena,” he noted.

The 2024 convocation ceremonies for graduates of the University’s Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown Campus started on Thursday and will conclude Saturday, November 9.

So far, the ceremonies have been blended, with a large majority of the graduates attending face-to-face and the remaining participating virtually. (G1)

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor John Edward Greene

Rosignol man busted in $10M fake robbery scheme

…$8M in cash recovered

Atale of deception unfolded when 37-yearold Paramdeo Victor, a resident of Rosignol, West Coast Berbice, found himself in police custody after allegedly staging a multi-million-dollar robbery to pocket his employer’s cash.

Victor initially reported to the Mahaica Police Station that while transporting $10,250,000 from a Georgetown Cambio back to Rosignol, he was ambushed by three masked, gun-wielding men at Unity Mahaica Old Road, East Coast Demerara, and the armed robbers forced his vehicle off the road, snatched the cash, and disappeared.

However, his story did not hold up under scrutiny of the Criminal Investigation

Department, as investigators quickly noted inconsistencies that led to suspicions of the alleged robbery being a ruse.

Victor eventually crumbled under further question-

ing, and admitted to concocting the entire story.

He confessed that he fabricated the tale of being robbed in order to keep the money for himself, and led officers to his vehicle where-

in he had hidden $2 million, then revealed that his accomplice, known as Cornell “Rastaman” Taylor, was holding additional cash in Ithaca Village, West Bank Berbice.

Police on Thursday said that, at about 19:00h on Wednesday, they accompanied Victor to Ithaca, and later to his Rosignol home, where they discovered $6 million stuffed in a black plastic bag inside a washing machine. Police are still searching for “Rastaman” and the remaining cash. Investigations are continuing.

iTEL to pay over 400 workers full benefits amid shutdown – Labour Minister

With only 22 days remaining before iTEL Guyana ceases its local operations, the Labour Ministry has indicated that the business process outsourcing (BPO) company’s management team would pay all its employees their full benefits.

Over 400 workers will lose their jobs and the financial support system when iTEL ceases operation on November 30.

In a written reply to this publication on Thursday, Minister Joseph Hamilton revealed that the Labour Ministry has engaged the management of the BPO company and all relevant information was provided.

As stipulated in Guyana’s Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Act, upon the announcement of business closures, employers are

mandated by law to inform the Labour Ministry, and provide them with the information needed to ensure that each employee being laid off is properly compensated. This includes furnishing the Labour Ministry with documentation containing the names, years of service, and all other information necessary for determining an individual’s termination benefits.

Minister Hamilton has assured that labour officers “will continue to check the benefits paid, to ensure that they are correct”.

Meanwhile, Fernandes Guyana Enterprise, management of the local pastry franchise Demerara Bakery Incorporated, has finally informed the Labour Ministry on Thursday that the bakery would cease operating, after breaking the news to its em-

ployees on Wednesday.

According to Minister Hamilton, Fernandes Guyana Enterprise issued a letter to the Ministry informing that it would cease operations with effect from November 30, 2024. A meeting to discuss severance benefits for workers is schedule for next week.

Similar to Itel, Dem Bake cited rising operational costs, resources, and an ongoing labour shortage as key factors in the decision to close its doors. When questioned about this trend, the Labour Minister stated, “Except for the persons for a short term, this will hurt them (employers), because, while some doors are closed, there are several doors that are being opened. If you read the -- I look at not so much the

papers, but I look at social media, more so Facebook -- posts of every day, (you will see) dozens and scores and hundreds of advertisements for vacancies and for staff. New companies, companies that are expanding… so all people have to do is pay attention to what is happening, and make themselves available and seek out places where employment exists. And people have to be flexible enough to understand that whilst you might want your preferred job, in my view, you need to be employed and then you work on your preferred job. So, I can say as Minister of Labour, there are hundreds of vacancies available right now in Guyana across the spectrum in all different sectors”.

Elections…

…the day after

Even if there weren’t so many Guyanese living in America, the American elections would’ve still transfixed us. Let’s face it: they’ve actually told the rest of the world that this side of the Atlantic is their backyard - in their Monroe Doctrine!! And we’re scattered across the globe cause one of our leaders (Jagan) decided to test their resolve! We better keep our fingers on their pulse!!

So, it looks like Trump’s gonna win their political trifecta –he’s already grabbed the Presidency, secured the Senate, and is well on his way to controlling the House. Then, of course, he’s already stacked the Supreme Court with conservatives, so that whatever “check and balance” that was created to be exerted is now gone for channa!! So, all those moaning and groaning about an “autocracy” here in Mudland should be salivating at what’s ahead for the US of A!!

In his first turn at the wheel, 2016-2020, quite a few oldline Republicans in Congress didn’t support Trump’s policies. But since then, he’s remade the GOP in his image, and will have his way. Most critical is the 900-page “Project 2025” document - prepared by the Heritage Foundation and other likeminded think tanks - that details the changes he’s gonna be making. Right off the bat, he’s gonna do away with the notion that bureaucrats in charge of executing governmental policies oughta be “neutral”!! No siree, Bob!! He’s gonna be getting rid of most of the incumbent bureaucracy and fill the positions with true believers in his vision!!

The PPP government that complains of our Public Service sabotaging their programs here will have a veeery sympathetic ear in Washington about cleaning that swamp!! Trump’s biggest shaking up of the present status quo will be pulling the rug from under a Europe that’s been coddled since WWII. They’re gonna have to pay their way for their defence, and we’ve already seen a fallout in Germany –Europe’s largest economy – where the government fell on the same day Trump was elected!! Here in our neck of the woods, those 300 million barrels of oil sloshing around under Mad Maduro’s feet will prove irresistible, and he should look out for a fire being lit under the said feet!!

The 2024 G20 Rio de Janeiro summit of their heads of state gonna be held on Nov 18 -19. And while Trump won’t be there, of course, expect leaders emboldened by his election – like India’s Modi – to be much more forceful!! China, of course, is Trump’s greatest bugbear, and as he uses the stick of tariffs with the carrots of inducements for US companies to relocate “home”, expect us to be caught in some of that crossfire!

In the meantime, let’s focus on getting our house in order!!

…the days to come

Your Eyewitness just can’t understand this Opposition. If he didn’t know better, he’d swear they’re working to return the PPP to office come 2025!! Take the elections’ fraud charges that were slapped on GECOM CEO Lolo and his Maleficent Eight!! This was delayed for years by a series of Opposition stratagems involving all sorts of detours and frolic - like inapplicable Constitutional motions and an inexplicably ill magistrate.

Well, we’ve finally got a new magistrate, so you’d think the Opposition would get on with it so’s not to run into the runup to the 2025 elections - thus keeping their rigging perfidy in front of the voters’ eyes!! But the defence lawyer – who just happens to be an Opposition Leader – is fighting tooth and nail to have all the matters introduced in the trial up to now be thrown out!!

This, of course, would prolong the trial – with the aforementioned shooting of the Opposition in the foot. Like the Sanctimonious Gangster’s firing of 7000 sugar workers, is this a death wish??

…today

The PPP continues inveigling oldline Opposition supporters to mosey over to their tent by fulfilling their incredible Manifesto promises on house lots, investments and cash infusions. The latest being 200 house lots allocated at Amelia’s Ward!! PPP tsunami 2025!!

The cash recovered by police

Arrested: Paramdeo Victor

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton

PPP/C will not fall for electoral traps being set by APNU, AFC – Jagdeo …says

party supports electoral changes that will help, not hinder voting

While the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) is all for proposals that will improve transparency and strengthen the election system, the Party will never support proposals that hinder the process and will not fall for the traps being set by the Opposition that if sprung, will do just that.

This was the position

more difficult for persons and even disenfranchise them.

“I explained before that the enhanced biometrics is not to shut out people from the polling place, but to ensure at the polling place, we don’t have people voting who shouldn’t vote. And that’s why I said we should explore the possibility. Their enhanced biometrics

taken by PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo, who was responding to agitation from the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) for biometrics to be implemented at polling stations for the next General and Regional Elections.

“I don’t have an objection to any system, biometrics or not, that will seek to ensure that people who vote are the people eligible to vote. And no impersonation. The PPP will never be opposed to anything of that nature. I’ve spoken many times about cleaning up the list. I said it here. I said don’t wait to get these dead people off.

“Go back to maybe 10, 15 years and get the entire list from the GRO. And publish it in the newspapers and send it to the political parties. If you have 30,000 or 40,000 dead people on the list. We can do that now. We’re in favour of this,” Jagdeo said during a press conference on Thursday.

As a matter of fact, he noted that the PPP was still in favour of a system that would strengthen the voting system, rather than hamper it. According to Jagdeo, the APNU/AFC has a track record of changing or advocating for changes at the polling station that will only make voting that much

is to shut down and start off from scratch. That’s what they’re looking at.

“If you have an iris scan in the polling place,

you’ll never get to vote with APNU. They will create a million reasons for you not to vote at the polling place. The same things they brought to the recount. They’re just looking for confusion in the future. And we’re not going to give them an opportunity for confusion. We will not act unconstitutionally. You cannot remove people’s names from the voters’ list for residency reasons.”

Persons of integrity

That being said, Jagdeo did note that the current polling station system is an effective one, with strong checks and balances. As a matter of fact, Jagdeo pointed out that APNU/AFC once was in support of it and had professed confidence in the system before the votes from the March 2, 2020 elections were counted and it became apparent it had lost. Jagdeo noted that the downfall of the last election was not in the system, but rather the integrity of those manning it.

“The system is robust enough to prevent them (illegal use of an overseas person’s name) voting. And they (Opposition) must get strong polling agents, like we had in the past, to prevent that happening. Each polling agent must have the names of the people, the folios so they can see the photos, and everything else. To see that they don’t vote. A robust system. It worked in the past. Nobody complained about that until the recount.”

Jagdeo also noted that the amendments the PPP/C passed in 2022 to the Representation of the People Act (RoPA) further bolstered the electoral process by closing various loopholes that were exploited by alleged riggers back in 2020.

“The new law fixes all of these issues. Several months before the elections, a manual has to be produced by GECOM that would outline the instructions and responsibilities to all the GECOM officials.

It will outline the role and responsibility of polling agents,” Jagdeo explained.

“It will say which document has to go in the box and which has to be submitted directly. Which belong to the presiding officer and polling agents. Every procedure. So, the Chief Elections Officer cannot change instructions after. That document will then be published in the newspapers, shared with political parties, and people will be trained.”

Biometrics

On Thursday also, the joint opposition, APNU and AFC in a statement had reiterated their call for biometrics to be implemented. The statement came following reports that GECOM

Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Vishnu Persaud had done a feasibility study that had determined biometrics could cost as much as US$20 million to implement.

“Let us re-emphasise that the Joint Opposition supports the full implementation of biometrics throughout the election process: that is, the capture of fingerprints digitally in the registration process (to enhance the quality of fingerprints available to the Commission and aid in the prevention of multiple registration) and digitised fingerprint identification at the place of poll (to prevent voter impersonation or identity theft),” a statement from the joint Opposition read. (G3)

PPP/C General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo

PNC Leader Aubrey Norton

Berbice rice farmers complain of lack of water to start crop

As farmers in East Berbice prepare for the next rice crop, access to irrigation water has become a sore issue.

Even though the Region Six Administration has nine pumps working to take water from the Canje River, rice farmers in Black Bush Polder and communities considered ‘front lands’ along the Corentyne Coast are not getting any fresh water.

Many of the canals are almost dried up. Farmers say the canals should be overflowing to allow them to pump water into their rice fields and sow paddy for the next crop. They are just out of the second crop of 2024, and are preparing for the first crop of 2025.

For the second crop of 2024, between 65,000 and 70,000 acres were harvested, and farmers raked in between 40 and 45 bags per acre. As part of the preparations for the first crop of 2025, irrigation pumps have recently been put into operation to facilitate farm-

ers with water.

According to Region Six Chairman David Armogan, six pumps are currently in operation in the Black Bush Polder community, and a further three are at Manarabisi. “Once those pumps keep (on being) operational, we should be able to get sufficient irrigation water to supply all of the farmers within the Black Bush Polder, the front lands as well as the Manarabisi area and the Crabwood Creek area,” he told this publication. However, Black Bush Polder farmers have expressed concern over the insufficiency of water in the irrigation canals.

Bicham Sookdeo, a 65-year-old rice farmer of Mibicuri South, who cultivates thirty acres with rice, says there is an urgent need for water.

“Right now, it is water we are waiting on; we need water to start. I already prepared the land, and now I am waiting on water to finish the land preparation,” he said.

Tamash Sookhai, another rice farmer who cultivates fifty acres in the same

area, has said he has already sowed his paddy. “We have a shortage of water. We don’t have enough water, so we haven’t finished working yet,” he said.

Regional Chairman Armagon has pointed out that while the pumps have been working for the past two weeks, water has not reached most areas as yet. “The problem is that, right now in the Cookrite Savannah, there are between 6000 and 7000 acres of rice under cultivation. So, as the water is being pumped from the Black Bush Polder end, these farmers have tubes and are taking the water into the Cookrite Savannah,” he explained.

According to Armogan, during a visit to the area on Wednesday, he was told that the farmers at Cookrite Savannah now have enough water to commence their crop.

“So we expect that a lot of water will now be diverted into the Black Bush Polder area. Once the water is being diverted there, you would find that the farmers in the Black Bush Polder

will have sufficient water to start their crop,” he clarified.

Further, he explained that when the water level in Black Bush Polder has reached a high, the water

would be regulated so that those in the front lands would start getting water.

“Because cash crops are also very important, and so water will be diverted into the front-land areas so that

Congested Le Repentir Cemetery set for major makeover …new burial grounds planned as space runs out – M&CC engineer

Budgetary allocations would be expended by the Georgetown Mayor & City Council (M&CC) to rehabilitate the long-standing Le Repentir Cemetery from its present state of congestion and dilapidation.

Located in lands immediately south of Princes Street Wortmanville, this burial ground has, for many years, been overcrowded by tombstones, and tombs have been overtaken by bushes, among other issues it currently faces.

During a recent interview with Guyana Times, City Engineer Colvern Venture disclosed that nearby areas have so far already been developed to accommodate additional burials.

“There were some spac-

He added that the goal for the upcoming years is to develop more areas for burial grounds. “Next year, we will continue to open up new areas to accommodate more burial spaces. The area we opened about two months ago will be maintained to ensure it can continue to serve its purpose,” he said. He revealed that, currently, the new grounds that

es that we would have created recently that could accommodate burials, and we are in the budgetary planning stage for next year. There are some spaces we have recently created that can accommodate more bodies,” he said. “We are currently in the planning stage for next year.”

have been identified for burials are divided into sections, with the eastern portion being at Vlissengen Road, Georgetown. However, the budgetary allocations have not yet been revealed, as meetings are still proceeding in this regard.

we can have both rice and cash crops having sufficient water to grow,” Chairman Armogan pointed out. (G4)

City Engineer Colvern Venture

A section of the Le Repentir cemetery

Tamash Sookhai

Low water levels at Black Bush Polder

Bicham Sookdeo

Gail Teixeira receives prestigious Commonwealth Parliamentarian Lifetime Achievement Award

Adding to the array of accolades that have followed her path for over three decades, Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira has received the prestigious Commonwealth Parliamentarian Lifetime Achievement Award at the 67th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) in Sydney, Australia.

The award was presented during the conference’s award ceremony to Speaker of the National Assembly of Guyana, Manzoor Nadir supported by Local Government and Regional Development Minister Sonia Parag, MP; Ganesh Mahipaul, MP, and, Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs, AA, who are attending the conference.

On Thursday, President Dr Irfaan Ali, in congratulating Teixeira, said that she was most deserving of the outstanding award.

“You have dedicated your entire adult life to serving Guyana and all Guyanese. Your execution of every task you undertook has been nothing short of exceptional. You are an outstanding citizen and an invaluable asset to Guyana. It is a privilege for me to witness, up close, your selfless service, remarkable commitment, humility, and sacrifices for our country. As you continue to serve, the inspiration and motivation you bring to our team are deeply valued. Keep shining with beauty, intellect, success, and in your service to the people of our nation,” the Head of State said.

In order for someone to receive the Parliamentarian Lifetime Achievement Award, the nominee must have served as a parliamentarian for over 20 years and, over that time, must have demonstrated an impressive record of achievement in their contribution to their Parliament and to their country; promoted democracy and good governance within their jurisdiction; and achieved notable and sustainable positive change over the course of their career.

Teixeira was nominated for this prestigious award by the Parliament of Guyana in September 2024.

Following her nomination, she was selected as this year’s recipient after meeting all outlined criteria of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA).

Teixeira’s distinguished parliamentary service spans more than three decades, marked by her commitment to principled leadership, and her leadership in the areas of governance, accountability, and consultation.

Exemplary

Her dedication to serving her constituents and the public has been exemplary, and she has earned the respect and trust of her colleagues while demonstrating an unwavering dedication to country, duty, skilfully leading her teams and fostering collaboration among parliamentary members.

Although she humbly avoids praise, Teixeira’s record of leadership is inspiring. She has served in four ministerial roles since 1992: Minister of Health (19921997); Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport (19982005); Minister of Home Affairs (2005-2006), and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance (2020-present).

In addition to her roles as Minister, Teixeira served as the Presidential Advisor on Governance (2006-2015), where she established and led the Governance Unit within the Office of the President. Her current port-

folio builds upon this foundation, and she continues to demonstrate a deep commitment to governance and public service.

Not only has Minister Teixeira’s leadership within Parliament been exemplary, but she has also served as both Government Chief Whip and Opposition Chief Whip, holding these key roles during critical periods from 2012 to 2015, 2015 to 2019, and from 2020 to the present, standing as a beacon for scores of persons.

As a longstanding member of the Parliamentary Management Committee, Minister Teixeira has provided valuable guidance, helping to foster consensus on complex issues and encouraging a spirit of cordiality in the House. Her influence extends regionally and internationally, where she continues to mentor parliamentarians.

Standing and Special Committees

The well-known Minister has sat on numerous Standing and Special Committees, dealing with issues ranging from constitutional reform to abortion, anti-money laundering and the countering of financing of terrorism, local government reform, and domestic violence.

She chaired the Parliamentary Constitutional Reform Human Rights Task Force, which prepared the new hu-

man rights section of the revised 1980 Constitution.

Teixeira chaired the oversight Sectoral Committee on Economic Services and is Chair of the Parliamentary Commission on Appointments, and a member of the Public Accounts Committee, Parliamentary Management Committee, and several others.

She piloted Guyana’s two reports (2010 and 2015) to the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process and Guyana’s reports on the Rights of the Child Convention,

the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the Convention for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, and the Convention against Torture.

Additionally, in her role as a Geographic Member of Parliament, Minister Teixeira represents Administrative Region Seven, one of Guyana’s largest regions, providing leadership and assistance to its communities.

The Minister’s career is characterised by a commitment to people engage-

ment. In the struggle for free and fair elections, she coordinated efforts among political parties and civic and religious organisations. Minister Teixeira’s accessibility and open-door policy afford citizens a listening ear and aid in her advocacy for the poor and vulnerable, youth, women and children, the elderly, disabled, and Indigenous peoples.

Teixeira has been the lead at stakeholders’ fora, nationally, regionally, and internationally. She was the Coordinator of the National Stakeholders Forum (involving over one hundred civil society organisations) from 2008 to 2015, and the Government’s representative on the National Working Group on Public/ Private Partnership on the Millennium Development Goals (2008-2014).

Coupled with her duty to the people of Guyana, Minister Teixeira has been invited to and delivered presentations at CPA post-election training programmes between 2020 and the present. She was a member of the CPA Election Observer Mission during the United Kingdom (UK) elections in 2016.

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira

Venezuelan shines as …inspires graduates with story of

Shaneeza Persaud’s journey to becoming the University of Guyana’s 2024 Valedictorian is a tale of resilience, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond of family.

Born to a Venezuelan mother and a Guyanese father, Shaneeza’s childhood was spent in Venezuela, yet she always felt a longing for the roots she had in Guyana. When it came time to choose where she would study, her heart led her to Guyana, a decision she knew would bring both challenges and growth.

Her path to a Bachelor of Science in Marketing at the University of Guyana’s School of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation (SEBI) was far from easy. The early days of her degree were spent online due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and she logged into classes from her mother’s old laptop in Venezuela.

After moving to Guyana in 2023, she faced a fresh wave of challenges: living alone for the first time, adjusting to a new culture, balancing a demanding academic schedule, and managing all of this without the immediate presence of her family.

“This was one of the hardest, most challenging periods of my life. I was alone in a country I

hadn’t been in for years…There were days when I wouldn’t eat in order to get everything done on time…Believing in myself, believing I could handle the stress and pressure, was something I struggled with during the entire four years of my degree,” she recalled.

But go on she did, embracing every moment of university life and transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth. Shaneeza took on leadership roles as a faculty representative and an active member of the University of Guyana Student Society (UGSS), where she found strength in building a community around her. It was these experiences that gave her the resilience to persevere through her toughest days; and in a remarkable turn of events, her hard work culminated in the honour of being named Valedictorian.

“When I received the call from my professor, it was 12 a.m. here in China…I was genuinely speechless for a few seconds, processing the information,” she recalled.

Her first thought was to share the good news with her parents, despite the miles between them.

“There was nothing I would’ve wanted more than to be able to tell them in person and share this

beautiful moment with them,” she shared. For Shaneeza, the valedictorian title goes beyond recognition; it represents “a journey of growth, resilience, and perseverance.”

Sacrifices

Currently in China for a language programme to perfect her Mandarin — a skill she hopes would expand her horizons — Shaneeza expressed how much she wished she could have been in Guyana to accept the honour in person.

From

ever

when

“The sacrifices my parents made for me to be able to attend university in Guyana…there will never be enough words to showcase my gratitude to them. This achievement is for them. If there were

moments

I wanted to give up, my parents would always come to mind, leading me to start over with more vigour and renewed courage.

my days of logging into class on my mom’s laptop back in Venezuela, to leaning on them from afar while I was in Guyana, I owe this milestone to them,” she proudly said.

University of Guyana’s 2024 Valedictorian, Shaneeza Persaud

Anjali Alima Jameer

Ariel Perry

Eli Inniss

Jaheem Simpson

Rakin McDonald Rockell Stephens

as UG valedictorian of perseverance, dreams fulfilled

Looking ahead, Shaneeza is preparing to pursue a master’s degree with dreams of giving back to her community. “With a degree in Marketing, I’m excited to leverage the power of effective communication to positively impact my community and field,” she shared. Her ultimate goal is to use her skills to help small businesses in Guyana thrive.

As she reflects on her journey, Shaneeza cannot help but express deep gratitude to the people who supported her. Once a shy individual, she

now steps forward with confidence, ready to face new challenges and continue making her family, friends, and community proud.

She also credits her success to the close-knit friendships she made in Guyana, describing her friends as her “family away from home.”

“They were there through every late-night study session, every moment of homesickness. They made me feel like I belonged, even when I was so far from my roots,” she explained.

Shaneeza’s story is not just about academic success, it’s about the courage to pursue a dream across borders, the power of community, and the love that fuels perseverance. From her days as a shy student in Venezuela to being a confident valedictorian with a clear vision for the future, Shaneeza’s journey is an inspiration to all who dare to chase their dreams, no matter the distance or difficulty.

Testimonies & transformed lives

Following Thursday’s 2024 convocation ceremony for graduates of the University’s Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown campus, several students shared testimonials about how UG transformed their lives, while some have reflected on overcoming challenges.

Rockell Stephens, who graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies, shared that she is thrilled to finish, proving to herself that she is capable of fulfilling her dreams.

“I’m really happy to be graduating. I was already looking forward to this in my second year, and now I'm thrilled to finish and move on to the next stage. I completed a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies. Initially, I wanted to pursue pharmacy, but I didn’t get into that programme, so I chose Environmental Studies mainly because of my interest in conservation,” Stephens shared.

Another graduate, Eli Inniss who secured a Certificate in Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing, shared, “I am very excited! It was tough, but I was able to graduate with a distinction. I chose this area of study because I work at the Civil Defence Commission. I think this is the way forward as it relates to fighting disasters."

Buzzing with joy, Tanoop Persaud said, "I feel really happy about graduating, but it has been a bittersweet moment, because I’m embracing all the emotions leading up to this. It’s been a challenge, but I accept challenges, and I am ready to grow and develop as a civil engineer going forward, and as a human being as well. I lost a mentor, Mr Maxwell Jackson; may his soul rest in peace. He has been a mentor to me since my first year up to my final step. He’s watching from above, and even if his presence won’t be felt physically, I know he’s there. I would tell other aspiring engineers to go for it. I know for some it can be very difficult in terms of finances and so on. My advice is to go forward. Accept the challenge and grow with it. Grow with the lessons learned from the challenges."

Anjali Alima Jameer acquired a Bachelor's of Science in Electrical Engineering. She shared similar sentiments: "I'm excited! I'm just happy to be the first of my family to graduate, so it's a big deal. I came from the interior, Lethem, so all the way to town was a big challenge for me. But again, the challenge, you have to overcome it; and I did, and

I'm here. My journey at the University of Guyana taught me perseverance and faith. Despite selfdoubt and obstacles, I focused on my passion for geology and relied on God for strength.”

“Embrace your challenges. Every step forward brings you closer to your dreams. You are not alone — trust in yourself, your faith, and keep moving forward,” Jaheem Simpson, who secured a Bachelor’s in Applied and Exploration Geology, has said.

Marcelina Budburgh hails from the Amerindian village of Moraikobai. She gained a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry. "I'm from Moraikobai, the only Amerindian village in Region Five. I'm very excited, pleased, and happy to be graduating. Growing up in a small family that faced many struggles, I actually made it out, and I'm glad to be here today. I chose this field of study because of my passion for chemistry and my love of understanding how things work — how reactants come together to form a product, and how we can improve lives across Guyana through chemistry,”

she said. Meanwhile, Rakin McDonald, who gained an Associate of Science in Information Technology, stated, "I’m feeling a bit nervous, but the stress of preparing for today has eased. I can’t wait for the day to end! I chose this programme because I enjoy coding, and I believe information technology offers many career opportunities. As the world increasingly embraces digital transformation, IT provides flexibility — if one path doesn’t work out, there’s always a plan B, or even a plan C.” Moreover, Ariel Perry who copped a Diploma in Biology, said, "It’s a privilege to graduate from the University of Guyana. I’m incredibly grateful, because I’ve worked hard for the past two years, and it’s rewarding to see that hard work pay off. I chose this programme because I have a strong passion for science; it allows me to understand the world from a unique perspective. I knew I wanted to pursue something in the field of science, so I chose biology.”

Marcelina Budburgh

Tanoop Persaud

Govt wants accountability as GuySuCo misses production targets …new cane varieties from Brazil & Cuba among current interventions – VP

President Dr Irfaan Ali is expected to soon be briefed on the performance of the sugar industry, which has seen concern expressed recently on the ability of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) to meet its production target for 2024.

During a press conference at Freedom House on Thursday, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo revealed that he, along with President Ali, spoke with Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha only recently and that the Minister was expected to meet with relevant stakeholders in the industry before briefing the President.

“I was with the President a few days ago and he said to

the Minister of Agriculture, directed him to meet with all the parties – the union, the management and a number of other people who have an interest or knowledge of sugar, to get a report back to him. Their argument has been that they have expanded the cultivation. They’re doing quite a bit of work in cultivation, to get more canes in the field. And they will increase back their target,” Jagdeo said.

He added, “From what I’ve heard, they’ll make between 60,000 and 70,000 tonnes this year. So clearly, that’s below their target. So, the Minister of Agriculture has to explain to the President why they’re underperforming on their target. And to give credible explanations. He’s asked that.

I don’t want to be premature before that report comes back to the President.”

Jagdeo also slammed Alliance For Change (AFC) leader Khemraj Ramjattan for jumping on the current underperformance of the sugar industry to score political points. According to Jagdeo, the AFC and Ramjattan should be the last to talk about the sugar industry, seeing as the industry was on its death bed under their leadership.

“Sugar workers have been working very hard. A lot of things are stacked against them. When you have so much, you need to reorient almost the entire industry. I’ve seen the attempt to do so now, in a major way. The conversion of the belts for mechanization. That requires a lot of capital input now, but will yield the benefits later for mechanised harvesting and sowing. That has been done, if you see the pictures.

“The variety of cane they’re bringing in and planting, would have higher yields. And already we’re seeing this. Some are coming from Brazil. We’re looking at Cuba to bring in. Because all of the old ratoons, the old cane, are not yielding the kinds of varieties. We’ve had cases where the technical specialist from

India, said we could get double the output per hectare if we just change the variety. And work is ongoing on that.” Jagdeo also highlighted that owing to deferred maintenance and the lack of capital investments dating back to the tenure of A Partnership for National Unity(APNU)/ AFC factories have deteriorated. As a consequence, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has had to take on the responsibility of resurrecting these factories. Additionally, Jagdeo acknowledged that there have also been management issues.

With an investment of $8.1 billion in 2023 to advance the revitalisation efforts of the sugar industry, Guyana saw a massive 28 per cent or 13,155 metric tonnes increase in sugar production, compared to 47,049 metric tonnes

in 2022. This was highlighted by Minister Mustapha, during the Ministry’s yearend review earlier this year.

But recently, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) had expressed concerns over the current trend of sugar production. The workers’ union had questioned the competency of the sugar company’s management in light of the poor performance so far for this year.

According to GAWU, as of October 26, 2024, GuySuCo produced 24,711 tonnes of sugar, representing just 39 per cent of its 63,276-tonne target for the year. With 60 per cent of the cropping period already exhausted, GAWU had expressed apprehension on whether the deficit could be closed in the remaining cropping weeks.

Back in August, <<<Guyana Times>>> re-

ported that GuySuCo produced 6738 tonnes of sugar for its first crop of 2024, falling short of the initial target of 16,000 tonnes. Minister Mustapha had stated at the time that the shortfall of the target was a result of the devastating effects of the prolonged drought, which “significantly restricted the growth of canes”.

He had revealed that the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate produced 2874.3 tonnes while Blairmont produced 2084.8 tonnes and Rose Hall with the lowest, 1779.8 tonnes. While the three estates began grinding sugar cane between February and April 2024, it was explained that the Albion Estate did not grind for the first crop due to a powerhouse fire on February 3. The Skeldon Estate also encountered several issues when producing its first crop. (G3)

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

Sod turned for new $1.3B Nismes Secondary School

The sod-turning ceremony for a new $1.3 billion Nismes Secondary School was conducted on Thursday with Education Minister Priya Manickchand leading the ceremony to celebrate the start of this project.

According to Manickchand, the school will serve 800 students and provide much-needed educational infrastructure for the community.

The school project, with a total invest-

ment of $1,336,166,784, is an essential part of the Government's commitment to enhancing educational facilities and expanding access to quality learning environments across Guyana.

Located in the La Grange-Nismes district, the school will be equipped to meet the needs of students, supporting the region's dedication to educational excellence and furthering efforts to achieve universal second-

ary education. According to the Education Ministry, the construction work has been divided into five lots and awarded to trusted contractors with a range of completion timelines. ECS Construction & General Supplies has been awarded Lot 1, with a contract sum of $237,050,110, and Lot 2, valued at $237,427,608. Both are scheduled to be completed in eight months.

JK Enterprise Inc is overseeing Lot 3, valued at

$392,372,526, also with an eight-month timeline. Mason s Innovative Construction will manage Lot 4, valued at $154,448,800, with an expedited three-month schedule. Finally, R&R General Construction & Supplies has been awarded Lot 5, valued at $314,867,740, with an eight-month completion timeline.

The Education Minister, a release from the Ministry said, shared her thoughts on the importance of this

new facility for the community, emphasising the Government's dedication to education, regardless of location.

"We set about immediately looking to see how we can build secondary schools with the view that every single child in this country whether you're from Georgetown or you're from here on the West Bank, or you're from the deep hinterland or you live on a mountaintop you must be able to access a secondary

education, she explained. Further, the Minister expressed appreciation towards the One Communications corporation for donating a portion of land to the school.

"I have to say that after negotiations, they've been very kind to say they're going to give us that piece of land, and I so want to recognise One Communications for donating a piece of land to the secondary education of the children of the West Bank, she said.

The sod-turning ceremony for the new $1.3 billion Nismes Secondary School

Need for psychologist in Region 6

...many not taking up profession – Armogan

None of the medical hospitals in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) is staffed with a psychologist. The region has four hospitals – the New Amsterdam, Port Mourant, Mibicuri, and Skeldon Hospitals.

Addressing the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) on Thursday, Councillor Sharon Smith informed them of the need for certain medical facilities to be staffed with certain professionals.

According to Smith, if someone wants the services of a psychologist, they

are referred to the National Psychiatric Hospital (NPH).

Even at that institution, a psychologist is seldom available. The NPH is staffed with at least one psychiatrist daily.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in mental health, including substance use disorders. Psychiatrists are qualified to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems. People seek psychiatric help for many reasons.

On the other hand, a psychologist is a professional who practices psychology

and studies mental states; perceptual, cognitive, emotional, and social processes and behaviour. Their work often involves the experimentation, observation, and interpretation of how individuals relate to each other and their environments.

The main difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist is that psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication, while psychologists focus on non-medical interventions.

Smith in questioning the reason for no psychologists being at any of the hospitals in the region, noted that persons in need of such services might not have the time to wait until such professionals are available before it is too late.

“There are some persons who are suicidal and need attention right away and they can’t get it. The distance from Port Mourant to New Amsterdam is a long time…”

The Regional Chairman confirmed that there was no psychologist in the region.

“But why is that so? We have all these resources now.” Smith remarked.

Armogan pointed out that many persons were not qualifying themselves in the field.

“We have been depending on Georgetown to send a psychologist to the National Psychiatric Hospital every now and then.”

Psychologist stationed Armogan, who chaired the Regional Health Board for more than a decade, said as far as he can remember there has never been a psychologist stationed in Region Six.

“There has always been a psychiatrist working at the National Psychiatric Hospital, but apart from that, there is no psychologist,” he noted.

He pointed out that it is a field that many persons were not getting qualified in.

Smith argued that just as the Health Ministry has been importing nurses to work at local hospitals, mental health professionals could also be imported by the Health Ministry.

“Mental health issues are on the rise,” she said, while making mention of recent incidents of suicide in the region.

“We know the statistics, it is very high and that is not good.”

Meanwhile, also dealing with the lack of adequate medical professions in the region, Smith said that there was a shortage of paediatricians.

She said she visited more than one hospital within the region seeking a paediatrician and was told that none were available.

Apart from that, she

pointed out that there was also a dire need for social workers at medical facilities within the region.

“How are we going to get help; the average person who can’t afford to go to a private facility? Why is it that we don’t have these persons at our public hospitals?” she enquired.

Based on her experience, Smith, who is herself a social worker, pointed out that persons who are at one of the medical hospitals within the region and are in need of a social worker will have to wait until contact is made with the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security for someone to be sent to meet with the patient.

“Why is it that we don’t have these persons at our hospitals? It is unacceptable. We have so many persons graduating every year from the University of Guyana with Social Work, why is it that the Port Mourant Hospital, for example, doesn’t have a social worker?” she enquired.

According to the

University of Guyana, Faculty of Social Sciences website, in 2023, 24 persons graduated with a Bachelor of Social Science, three with Master’s and one with an associate degree in social work.

The Regional Chairman noted that there was a paediatrician stationed at the New Amsterdam Hospital.

“But the outlying hospitals like Mibicuri and Port Mourant, they don’t have specialists. The specialist normally goes to those hospitals on specific days of the week.

“We probably need to advance to another stage whereby we can be able to get specialists at all of these hospitals. It would take some time, because these people would have to be brought in from overseas. We do not have enough Guyanese who are qualifying themselves in specific areas that can now come back to work in these hospitals. The specialists that we have in this region are all at the New Amsterdam Hospital,” Armogan explained. (G4)

AG calls for backlog of appeal cases to be addressed

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall on Tuesday evening disclosed that there was a backlog of cases at the Guyana Court of Appeal.

During his weekly programme “Issues in the News”, he said while the Judiciary has successfully dealt with litigation at the High Court and cases were “moving swiftly”, more needed to be done at the Appeal Court level.

“We have now developed an unfortunate bottleneck or backlog at the level of the Court of Appeal… People are dying, people are migrating, their properties are deteriorating, and the appeals are not coming up for hearing, so that is something that we have to address very urgently,” he stated.

The Appellate Court has three Judges and while this may be an explanation for the slothful delivery of rulings, Nandlall noted that “it can’t be a justification”.

According to the AG, the Judicial Service Commission is working to fill existing vacancies within the court.

“Hopefully, we will get ap-

pointments and there will be greater speed in the disposal of cases,” he expressed.

On the other hand, the Minister of Legal Affairs raised concerns over the rate of cases being overturned by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), which is Guyana’s final Appeal Court.

“In certain types of cases, there is a 100% reversal where the CCJ overrules; in other cases, the rate of reversal is not much different.

This is a worrying issue and as Minister with responsibility for justice, it is my duty to voice these concerns,” he contended.

The most recent decision reversed by the CCJ relates to the appointment of two

Parliamentary Secretaries –Sarah Browne and Vickash Ramkissoon. The case challenging the appointment of the duo was first upheld by acting Chief Justice Roxane George in 2021 and in 2023, Court of Appeal Judge Dawn Gregory affirmed George’s ruling. In dismissing the appeal, Gregory ruled that Browne and Ramkissoon were not lawful members of the National Assembly since they were on the candidate list.

However, the CCJ on Wednesday, October 30 delivered a ruling which determined that both persons are permitted to be appointed as Parliamentary Secretaries.

Sharon Smith addressing the Region Six RDC on Thursday

Region Six Chairman David Armogan and Regional Executive Officer Navindra Persaud

Nandlall rubbishes call for law to govern cash grants

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall on Tuesday rubbished calls by the opposition for legislation to govern the distribution of cash grants. The Attorney General noted that such a decision would not be sensible since the amounts given to citizens through various cash grant initiatives are not constant.

These include the yearly ‘Because We Care’ cash grant for students as well as the imminent the $100,000 cash grant per adult citizen.

“What will happen if next year we don’t get the money to pay?” Nandlall asked.

“Why you want to make that law? You don’t make law for the purpose of making law. Law is to govern and regulate society,” he added.

“So, you put it into law and for some reason next year oil prices drop, because oil prices depend upon a volatile world market and you are unable to pay, you violate your own law, or you will amend the law every time,” he further explained.

According to Nandlall, “what is important is that people are receiving or will receive the cash grant and that is what the people want.”

The Government of

Guyana will soon commence the distribution of $100,000 cash grant to every citizen above 18 years old. A mobile app is being developed and tested to finalise the commencement date for the distribution process.

The grant is also available to overseas-based Guyanese but they must come to Guyana to uplift the grant.

The sum will be paid in the form of a cheque for coastlanders. In the hinterland regions where banks are not as accessible, a different system will be put in place which can be carefully scrutinised.

First 110 houses at Silica City 50% complete

The first 110 young professional homes, being constructed at Silica City, Kuru Kururu along the Linden- Soesdyke Highway are 50 per cent complete.

up [construction on] these houses within the next few months…The next stage is to ensure that we have potable water to ensure people can move in immediate-

beautiful. The recipients of these houses at Silica City will be very pleased with the design and the quality of work,” Minister Rodrigues said.

Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues has since expressed satisfaction with the progress of the work, following an inspection on Wednesday.

She also disclosed that all the infrastructural works have been completed, including road and drainage networks and the installation of utility services.

“We are looking to wrap

ly by the time the houses are completed,” she is quoted in a Department of Public Information (DPI) report as saying.

There are 75 flat housing units and 35 elevated units. The flat houses are priced between $25,200,603 and $25,290,178, while the elevated ones cost approximately $33,980,153 to $34,450,145.

“We incorporated a more modern design that is very

Parika Market 85% completed

The Parika Market on the East Bank of Essequibo, Region Three is nearing completion, with approximately 85 per cent of work now finished.

External works, such as casting and painting, have been completed, and the contractor is currently focusing on the final touches inside the building.

During a recent visit by the Department of Public Information (DPI), Regional Chairman Inshan Ayube explained that the contractor was working towards fully completing the market soon.

“It is a steel structure and consists of two stories. All the stalls have already been erected. The upstairs will be completed soon as well. The compound is already asphalted and everything else is in place, such as the washrooms and so on,” the Chairman

told DPI.

When completed, priority will be given to vendors who had previously operated in the market before it was destroyed by fire in February 2023.

The market will house around 110 stalls.

Notably, the new market will be equipped with essential firefighting systems to ensure safety and prevent future incidents.

“We are also engaging to have a fire hydrant either in the compound itself or within the vicinity of the market so that we can have an easy flow of water, when necessary. Overall, we will have all the preventative measures that are needed,” the Regional Chairman assured.

The vision for the market is to create a high-end space where quality products are sold, Ayube said.

“We have standard stalls in the market so no

one would be disadvantaged. But what we have to decide is what will be sold in the market and then we will put the vendors accordingly,” he stated.

Guided by the Local Government Minister, plans for a food court on the upper floor of the market are also in the works.

The current roadside vendors, along parallel to the market site and opposite the Parika Police Station, will be relocated to alleviate traffic congestion.

Ayube further stated, “We have a big compound inside the market area so we will have accommodation for vendors who have vehicles.”

The construction is being overseen by the Local Government and Regional Development Ministry and the Region Three Regional Democratic Council.

Silica City is the brainchild of President Dr Irfaan Ali. It will have high-end developments including smart homes with the newest energy-saving technologies for wastewater management, energy management, and water conservation.

The city will have recreational parks, community centres, an electricity grid, and a multi-specialty health facility.

Works ongoing at the new Parika Market

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues and a technical team from Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) during a site visit to Silica City (DPI photo)

Some of the houses being constructed at Silica City

Regional

Cuba slowly restores power after hurricane, Havana still dark

Cuban authorities said they had begun restoring power to the eastern half of the island on Thursday, a day after Hurricane Rafael knocked out the country's electrical grid, leaving 10 million persons in the dark.

The grid collapsed on Wednesday as Rafael tore across Cuba with top winds of more than 115 mph (185 kph), damaging homes, uprooting trees and toppling telephone poles.

The hurricane had spun off westward into the Gulf of Mexico where it no longer posed an immediate threat to land, the Miami-based US National Hurricane Center

said. Rafael was the latest blow to the Communist-run country's already precarious electrical grid, which just two weeks ago collapsed multiple times, leaving many in the country without power for days and sparking scattered protests across the island.

The Energy and Mines Ministry said on Thursday afternoon it was making progress restoring power to pockets of central and eastern Cuba, but warned the process would be slower in western parts of the island, which were hardest hit by the storm.

Havana, the capital city of two million, was still with-

out power late in the day on Thursday, and authorities had not said when it would be restored.

The country's decrepit oilfired generation plants have struggled to keep the lights on for decades, but this year the system collapsed into crisis as oil imports dropped off from allied countries Venezuela, Russia, and Mexico.

Rafael was the second hurricane to hit the island in less than a month after Oscar ravaged eastern Cuba in October, a one-two punch that was sapping more resources in a country already suffering shortages of food, fuel and medicine.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Kidnapped Cunupia businessman freed after a month

Close to a month after his brazen abduction by men dressed as Police Officers, Cunupia businessman Suvesh Ramnarine has been released safely. The 33-yearold is said to be resting and in good spirits with his family. The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, in a statement, confirmed that around 01:15h Wednesday, Ramnarine s captors allegedly contacted his family, directing them to a location on Jerningham Road in Cunupia.

A male relative reportedly arrived at the site at approximately 01:54h, where he found Ramnarine waiting and safely brought him home. Following his return, the family alerted the AntiKidnapping Unit (AKU).

The AKU team promptly took Ramnarine to a medical facility for a thorough checkup. After examination, he was discharged and reported to be doing well.

The statement added that to support his recovery, the TTPS has referred him to the Victim and Witness Support Unit, where professional counselling will be provided.

The TTPS assures the public that investigations into this incident are still actively being conducted by a team of officers.

The incident began on October 12, when Ramnarine was at Rob s Bar, Southern Main Road, Cunupia. Reports indicate he was confronted by armed men dressed in Police attire, who forced him out of the establishment and into a black

Hyundai Tucson SUV.

Shortly after the kidnapping, Ramnarine s family received calls from individuals claiming responsibility and demanding a ransom of $3 million for his safe release. Police have not confirmed if any ransom was paid. (Excerpt from T&T Guardian)

Mexico authorities find 11 bodies in Guerrero state

Authorities in Guerrero, one of Mexico's most violent states, said Thursday they found the remains of 11 persons in the capital Chilpancingo, marking what appears to be another grisly homicide weeks after the city's Mayor was murdered and decapitated.

The bodies were of nine men and two women, with two minors among the dead, and their identities were still unknown, the office of Guerrero's attorney general said in a statement.

A citizen had reported an abandoned van to authorities on Wednesday

night, leading them to find the bodies. The killings were being investigated as homicides, the statement said.

In October, the mayor of Chilpancingo, 43-yearold Alejandro Arcos, was killed six days after taking office. Photos depicting his decapitated head on the roof of his pick-up trick circulated in local media and on WhatsApp, shocking the country and presenting one of the first major challenges to new President Claudia Sheinbaum's pledge to reduce violent crime.

Sheinbaum, who presented her security plan

days after Arcos' killing, said she will continue to offer social support for young people as alternatives to organized crime, an approach also used by her mentor, former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. She also aims to improve intelligence sharing and coordination among government organisations and a beefed-up National Guard. There have been 2638 homicides in Mexico since Sheinbaum was sworn into office on October 1, according to pollster TResearch's analysis of Government data.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Brazil denies CNN report that upcoming spending cuts limited to US$2.6B

Brazil's Government denied on Thursday a report by CNN Brasil saying its highly-anticipated package to rein in mandatory expenses would involve cuts of up to just 15 billion reais (US$2.6 billion), an amount the market views as insufficient.

CNN Brasil reported that President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was reviewing two spending cut proposals, one for 10 billion reais and another for 15 billion reais, the latest aimed at the health and transportation sectors.

"It is important to note that this information does not reflect the discussions underway between the economic team, other ministries, and the Presidency," the Finance Ministry said in a statement.

The report had prompted a further weakening of the Brazilian real against the US dollar, while some short-term interest rate futures hit session highs, and Brazil's equities benchmark Bovespa reversed early gains.

Analysts told Reuters Brazil needed a package containing 30 billion to 50 billion reais in spending

cuts to reduce the risk premium on Brazilian assets, which have been affected by uncertainties surrounding public debt sustainability and volatility tied to the US elections.

The central bank cited the need for structural fiscal measures as it accelerated monetary tightening on Wednesday with a 50 basis-point rate hike, bringing rates to 11.25 per cent.

Previously, Finance Minister Fernando Haddad said the Government would announce measures after the municipal elections concluded in late October to extend the lifespan of new fiscal rules introduced by Lula last year.

The fiscal framework combines primary budget targets with a cap for overall spending growth to a certain threshold above inflation. However, with many mandatory expenses such as social benefits and pensions growing at a faster rate, the framework restricts room for investments and operational spending. Numerous economists warn that without reforms to change spending dynamics, the framework could become unsustainable in a few years, limiting its effectiveness in controlling Latin America's largest economy rising public debt.

(US$1 = 5.6822 reais) (Reuters)

Trump's team keen to unite anti-dictatorship exiles, Nicaragua dissident says

Members of US President-elect

Donald Trump's transition team reached out to a leading Nicaraguan Opposition figure on Thursday, saying they want to unite exiled communities from Nicaragua, Cuba, and Venezuela, the Opposition figure said.

Miami-based Felix Maradiaga, head of Nicaragua's Freedom Foundation and a vocal critic of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega, told Reuters

he received a "courtesy call" from Trump representatives seeking to "open communication channels with the incoming administration".

He added that he also recently met Trump campaign officials in Chicago.

Trump's transition team did not respond to a request for comment.

In the wake of Trump's win in Tuesday's US election, Maradiaga said members of the future President's team had contacted him, keen to "strengthen cohe-

sion" among Nicaraguan Opposition members and with exiled communities from Cuba and Venezuela.

Maradiaga said he would soon meet with those handling Latin American foreign policy and security for the Trump Administration.

"They told us that they are interested in having the opponents of Nicaragua, Cuba and Venezuela unite our points of view in the face of three similar dictatorships, so that the actions that come from the United States have

a joint impact in the quest for democracy," Maradiaga said.

Maradiaga, a former presidential candidate, was imprisoned by Ortega in 2021. He was one of 222 dissidents expelled to the US in February 2023, stripped of Nicaraguan nationality. The Opposition coalition Platform for Unity and Democracy, to which Maradiaga belongs, urged Trump to maintain support for Nicaraguan migrants fleeing political repression.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

People charge their mobile phones after Hurricane Rafael knocked out the country's electrical grid, leaving 10 million without electrical service, in Havana, Cuba, November 7, 2024 (Reuters/Norlys Perez photo)

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (Reuters/Andressa Anholete file photo)

Suvesh Ramnarine

Around the World

OIL NEWS

Oil rises 1% as investors digest US election fallout

Thousands under evacuation near Los Angeles as wildfire torches homes

More than 10,000 people were ordered to evacuate communities northwest of Los Angeles as fierce seasonal winds drove a wildfire down tinder-dry hillsides into ranches and homes, authorities said.

Oil prices rose nearly one per cent on Thursday as the market weighed how President-elect Donald Trump's policies would affect supplies and as drillers cut output while bracing for Hurricane Rafael.

A strong dollar and lower crude imports in China limited gains.

On Wednesday, the election of Republican former President Trump initially triggered a sell-off that pushed oil down more than US$2 as the dollar rallied. Crude prices later pared losses to settle down by less than one per cent.

On Thursday, Brent crude oil futures settled up 71 cents, or 0.95 per cent, at US$75.63 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose 67 cents, or 0.93 per cent, to US$72.36.

Prices gained support on expectations that Trump's incoming administration may tighten sanctions on Iran and Venezuela, said Andrew Lipow, President of Lipow Oil Associates, adding that this could take oil supply off the market.

"The market is now looking into what Donald Trump's policies might be and the market is reacting to that prospect," said Lipow.

In his first term, Trump put in place harsher sanctions on Iranian and Venezuelan oil. Those measures were briefly rolled back by the Biden Administration but later reinstated.

Also supporting prices, the US Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point at the close of its policy meeting on Thursday. Interest rate cuts typically boost economic activity and energy demand.

Actual, supply cuts also lent support. In the US Gulf Coast, over 22 per cent, or 391,214 barrels per day, of crude oil production was shut in response to Hurricane Rafael, the US Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement said.

The dollar index eased nearly one per cent, but remained near a two-week high after surging following Trump's victory. A strong dollar makes oil more expensive for other currency holders and tends to weigh on prices.

Downward pressure also came from data showing crude oil imports in China fell nine per cent in October, the sixth consecutive month showing a year-on-year decline, as well as from a rise in US crude inventories. (Reuters)

Firefighters and Police cleared residents from neighbourhoods near Camarillo before homes were set ablaze by embers blown 3.2 kilometres (two miles) from the fire front, Ventura County Fire Department Captain Tony McHale said by phone from near the blaze.

"It's like trying to put out a blowtorch with a squirt gun," said McHale of the fire which began in a hillside canyon on Wednesday then tore west, driven by Santa Ana winds.

Fuelled by abundant grass and scrub, with wind gusts up to 130 km per hour (80 mph), the blaze has burned over 5900 hectares (14,500 acres), authorities said.

Climate scientists say warming temperatures have created wet winters that allow California's coastal chaparral – small trees, shrubs and bushes – to thrive. Record-high temperatures this summer have turned hillsides into unlit bonfires.

Several civilians were injured and a significant number of homes, businesses and other structures destroyed,

Mozambique Police fire tear gas at biggest

protest yet against ruling party

Mozambican Police fired tear gas at thousands of protesters in the capital Maputo on Thursday during the biggest demonstration yet against the long-ruling Frelimo party, which was declared the winner of a disputed election last month.

Anger has mounted since election authorities said Frelimo had won the October 9 vote, extending its 49-year rule. Human rights groups say at least 18 persons have been killed in the Police crackdown on protests since then.

The election was hotly contested, with many young people supporting indepen-

dent candidate Venancio Mondlane, who says the vote was rigged and encouraged demonstrations.

Protesters chanted "Power to the people" and "Frelimo must fall" and some blockaded streets with burning tyres and held homemade signs supporting Mondlane.

"This is it. If we don't stand up now, nothing will change," said Julia Macamo, 55, a street vendor and mother of six who was still shaken by the tear gas she inhaled while protesting in the Maxaquene neighbourhood. "It's time to see the back of Frelimo."

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Biden urges Americans to “bring down the temperature” after Trump's

US election win

US President Joe Biden urged Americans to "bring down the temperature" on Thursday following Republican Donald Trump's election victory and sought to console fellow Democrats who were alarmed by the former President's stunning comeback.

"Setbacks are unavoidable. Giving up is unforgivable," Biden said at the White House Rose Garden as he addressed staff who were disappointed in Vice President Kamala Harris' defeat. "A defeat does not mean we are defeated."

Biden said Tuesday's election had proven the integrity of the US electoral system and pledged an orderly transfer of power – an implicit rebuke of Trump, who sought to overturn his 2020 defeat to Biden and raised baseless claims of fraud during this year's campaign as well.

"Something I hope we can do no matter who you voted for is see each other not as adversaries but as fellow Americans, bring down the temperature," Biden said. "I also hope we can lay to rest the question about the in-

tegrity of the American electoral system. It is honest, it is fair, and it is transparent. And it can be trusted, win or lose."

Biden invited Trump to come meet at the White House – a courtesy Trump did not offer to Biden in 2020 – and Trump's campaign said the Presidentelect would go. In the weeks ahead, Trump will select personnel to serve under his leadership.

Some Democrats have blamed Biden, 81, for Harris' defeat, saying he should not have sought re-elec-

tion. Biden only dropped his re-election bid in July after a disastrous TV debate with Trump raised alarm bells about his mental fitness.

"We lost this battle. The America of your dreams is calling for you to get back up," he said.

Harris sought on Wednesday to console supporters. Like Biden, she promised to aid Trump's transition before his inauguration on January 20 but urged Democrats to continue to fight for what they believe in.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

McHale said, adding that it was too dangerous to enter the area to assess damage.

California Governor

threatened 3500 structures.

Schools in Ventura County were closed through Friday due to the fires, according to the county's office of education.

The fire expanded in size on Wednesday after powerful winds came into contact with very dry air.

The United States is experiencing a strong wildfire year with 8.1 million acres burned to date, compared with an annual, full-year average of around seven million acres over the last decade, according to National Interagency Fire Center data.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

More families stream out of north Gaza, as tanks push deeper

Israeli forces stepped up bombardment across the Gaza Strip on Thursday and ordered more evacuations, creating a fresh wave of displacement from northern Gaza, to which Palestinians fear they will not be able to return.

Palestinian health officials said at least 10 persons had been killed and several others wounded in an Israeli air strike on a school housing displaced families in Shati refugee camp in Gaza City.

The Israeli military said the strike targeted a Hamas command centre embedded inside the compound that previously served as a United Nations-run school. It accused Hamas of exploiting civilian facilities for military purposes, which the group denies.

As Israeli tanks advanced in Beit Lahiya, a month into a new push on northern Gaza, dozens of families streamed out. They arrived at schools and other shelters in Gaza City

with whatever belongings and food they could bring.

Drones hovered overhead broadcasting evacuation orders, which were also carried on social media outlets and on audio and text messages sent to residents' phones, one displaced man said.

"After they displaced most or all of the people in Jabalia, now they are bombing everywhere, killing people on the roads and inside their houses to force everyone out," the man told Reuters via a chat app, giving only one name, Ahmed, for fear of repercussions.

Palestinian officials say Israel is carrying out a plan of "ethnic cleansing". Residents say no aid has entered Jabalia, Beit Lahiya or Beit Hanoun since the operation began on October 5.

The Israeli military says it was forced to clear Jabalia and start clearing nearby Beit Lahiya on Wednesday in order to take on Hamas militants who it says have regrouped there.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Gavin Newsom said the fire

People react near houses that were damaged in the Mountain Fire in Camarillo, US, November 7, 2024 (Reuters/David Swanson photo)

Palestinians gather after a school sheltering displaced people was hit by an Israeli strike, at Beach camp in Gaza City, November 7, 2024 (Reuters/Mahmoud Issa photo)

Make choices that put your mind at ease. Put your trust in facts, not hearsay. Create opportunities that enhance your looks or encourage better health.

It's time to stop talking; act. A change will exhilarate you and help get your confidence back. Let go of the past and tone down indulgent behavior. Refuse to let drama overcome common sense.

Refuse to let anyone ruin your plans or take advantage of you financially. Consider what you want to achieve and keep an eye on your objective. An unexpected offer will have flaws.

Now is not the time to be a homebody. Engage in networking events, exhibits or activities that interest you. You'll gain insight into something that brings you joy.

Look for opportunities to shine. Step into the spotlight and let your dynamic personality inspire others to see the possibilities. Your input will attract attention and offers that are worth considering.

Respond carefully. Someone will overreact or misinterpret what you say. Pay attention to detail and leave nothing to the imagination. Bring forth positive ideas with solid proof that what you propose is doable.

Accumulate information that can make your journey easier. A mental or physical exercise will allow you to test the plausibility of setting out on a new adventure or educational pursuit.

Try something new and explore the possibilities. A creative outlet or a novel proposition will lead to reimagining how to use your skills, possessions or ideas to bring in extra cash or make your life easier.

Put an investment plan together, or use your skills and talents to bring in extra cash. Hard work will pay off if you refuse to let outsiders interfere or scammers take advantage of you.

It's up to you to initiate a change if that's what you want. Altering your environment will spark your imagination and influence your perception. Seize the moment, get the lowdown and turn a thought into a reality.

Refuse to let your emotions stand in the way or lead you astray. Keep situations in perspective and go directly to the source before you act on hearsay.

Spend time rearranging your workspace to optimize output. It's up to you to organize and declutter your life. Refrain from letting anyone else handle your money and decisions.

CWI secures groundbreaking 6-year media rights deal with ESPN Caribbean

Cricket West Indies (CWI) have announced the finalization of a new six-year media rights agreement with ESPN Caribbean, ensuring exclusive broadcast and digital cover age of all West Indies Men’s and Women’s home interna tional match es, as well as the Men’s and Women’s re gional tourna ments - the CG United Super50 Cups. The agreement, which runs from 2024 to 2030, further solidifies ESPN Caribbean as the home of West Indies cricket across the region.

Under this partnership,

ESPN Caribbean would provide extensive live coverage of the West Indies Men’s and Women’s home internationals, as well as the Men’s and Women’s CG United Super50 Cups. Fans across the Caribbean would be able to enjoy their favourite teams and players on ESPN’s platforms, such as ESPN, ESPN 2 and Disney+, continuing the longstanding relationship between ESPN Caribbean and CWI.

On the agreement, CWI Acting Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating

Officer, Lynford Inverary, said, “This new six-year agreement with ESPN Caribbean marks the largest media rights deal CWI has ever secured in the Caribbean. It not only reflects the growing commercial value of West Indies cricket, but also ensures that fans across the region will continue to enjoy comprehensive coverage of our international series and CG United Super50 Cups. ESPN is a longstanding partner, and this new deal will help CWI meet its longterm financial goals, while expanding the visibility and engagement of West Indies cricket within the region.”

Scott McGlone, Snr Director of Programming and Acquisitions, ESPN, expressed his excitement: “We are thrilled to contin-

Cricket West Indies announces suspension of Alzarri Joseph for two matches

Bridgetown, Barbados: Cricket West Indies (CWI) has imposed a two-match suspension on

Joseph following an on-field incident during the 3rd CG United ODI at the Kensington Oval in Barbados.

As part of the CWI’s ongoing commitment to upholding the highest levels of professionalism and integrity in the game, the incident -which involved conduct falling short of CWI’s standards of professionalism -- was reviewed in consultation with the Senior Men's coaching staff.

Miles Bascombe, CWI Director of Cricket, addressing the decision, has said: “Alzarri's behaviour did not align with the core values that Cricket West Indies upholds. Such conduct

cannot be overlooked, and we have taken decisive action to ensure the gravity of the situation is fully acknowledged."

Joseph also has issued a public apology, acknowledging the incident and expressing regret.

“I recognize that my passion got the best of me. I have personally apologized to Captain Shai Hope and my teammates and management. I also extend my sincerest apologies to the West Indies fans. I understand that even a brief lapse in judgment can have a far-reaching impact, and I deeply regret any disappointment caused”, he has said.

Cricket West Indies has said it remains committed to fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and discipline both on and off the field.

ue our strong relationship with CWI with this groundbreaking new deal. ESPN

seeks to serve local sports fans anytime, anywhere. What better way to accomplish this goal than a longterm partnership with CWI that represents such a rich sporting history both locally and internationally?”

Under the new agreement, CWI has retained the right to licence post-match highlights on free-toair and digital platforms throughout the region, ensuring fans would have access to additional content throughout each series and tournament.

The new ESPN Caribbean deal, brokered

in partnership with CWI’s media consultants Pitch International, is a key milestone in CWI’s broader strategy to enhance the global visibility of West Indies cricket and engage more fans. The partnership aligns with CWI’s ongoing efforts to bring worldclass cricket content to Caribbean audiences, and deliver the best possible cricket experience to fans. (CWI)

‘We haven’t done anything yet’ – Curry plays down strong Warriors’ start

Despite improving to a 7-1 record by beating the Boston Celtics, Steph Curry insists the Golden State Warriors “haven’t done anything yet”.

Curry impressed in the Warriors’ 118-112 victory over the reigning NBA champions by finishing with 27 points, seven rebounds, nine assists and four steals.

He played for 34 minutes, after missing a week with a sprained ankle, and moved to 30th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, passing Charles Barkley when he scored the 23,747th point of his career in the third quarter.

The win moved the Warriors to jointly top of the Western Conference, but despite what looks to be a statement win, Curry was not getting ahead of himself.

“We haven’t done anything yet,” Curry said. “A good team, or a relevant team, wins the games they are supposed to win. You steal a couple on the road against good teams, you protect your home court; we’ve done those things so far, but we got two more games on this road trip, two tough tests. So, I like where we’re at obviously, but [there’s a] long way to go.

“Until proven otherwise, that’s how we have to play [splitting up the contributors]. And we’ve talked about it. Coach has talked about

it until he’s blue in the face already. Every practice, every film session, every pregame, it’s the same message. So, it is who we are right now. It’s who we have to be.”

The Celtics had taken the lead in the first quarter after a strong start, but they struggled to cope as the Warriors’ constant rotation among defenders wreaked havoc on the hosts’ offence. Boston committed 12 turnovers as they failed to find their rhythm for most of the game, though coach Joe Mazzulla was fairly pleased with how his team adapted.

“They’re physical, so they force you to fight for your space,” Mazzulla said. “They have active hands, so, I think in the first half, they got a ton of deflections.

They were able to get some stuff there, but I thought we did a better job of handling the physi-

cality in the second half, and just have to put - again, we talk physicality, it’s just as much about defence as offence.

“So, it took us a little while to get adjusted to that. Once we did, we executed really well, and then it just came down to a couple possessions at the end.”

The Celtics sit second in the Eastern Conference behind the Cleveland Cavaliers, who hold a perfect record so far. (Sportsmax)

Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors

fast bowler Alzarri

Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph

Keacy Carty, Brandon King hundreds seal ODI series for West Indies

West Indies made light work of their run chase under the Kensington Oval floodlights, with centuries from Keacy Carty and Brandon King setting up a dominant eight-wicket win that sealed a 2-1 series victory over England.

Carty’s maiden hundred, from 97 balls, made him the first cricketer from St Maarten to reach the landmark for West Indies. He was followed to three figures by King, who made the most of being dropped twice with a timely knock, his first 50-plus score in ODIs since the World Cup Qualifier in July 2023. Their double-century stand, eventually worth 209, was the highest for West Indies against England in the format.

England had scrapped their way up to what might have been a competitive total, after a nightmare start saw them on 24 for 4 at the end of the first powerplay. Phil Salt knuckled down to play his longest international innings in terms of balls faced, while Dan Mousley was inventive on the way to a maiden ODI fifty. With an injury to Romario Shepherd forcing Shai Hope to turn to Sherfane Rutherford - whose 3.5 overs at the death disappeared for 57England had at least given themselves a glimmer.

It took one ball of the reply to suggest that conditions for batting had eased, as King spanked Jofra Archer’s opening gambit through the covers. He did the same to the second delivery, with Archer’s first three overs eventually costing 24; and although Jamie Overton claimed a first ODI wicket with his third legitimate ball, Evin Lewis being bounced out for 19, West Indies were already up and running.

King finished the powerplay by bashing Reece Topley for two fours in three balls, putting West Indies ahead of the asking rate at 65 for 1 after ten. And while Carty, who picked up his first four by gliding

Topley behind square in the same over, had some uncertain moments against the legspin of Adil Rashid and Liam Livingstone early on,

ground.

Having surpassed his previous ODI best of 88, he reached his hundred with a glide for four

the second-wicket pair were soon motoring towards the target.

Rashid’s first three overs had gone for just seven, but King pumped him down the ground for six, to mark a shift in the mood.

An edge off Livingstone evaded Salt’s gloves when King was on 44, and the West Indies opener went to a 60-ball fifty in the next over, clubbing Rashid emphatically through midwicket.

Carty had been given out lbw to Livingstone’s first ball, but reviewed in the knowledge that there was bat involved. He cut and swept consecutive boundaries in the same over, and later launched Rashid over deep midwicket boundary as West Indies steadily brought the required rate down while negotiating England’s seven bowling options.

After bringing up a 61-ball 50, Carty again took back-to-back fours off Livingstone, before doing the same to Sam Curran. A muscular pull for six off Topley ended up in the crowd at deep midwicket as Carty overtook his partner, and he followed it up with a flat-batted four down the

off Jacob Bethell’s leftarm spin, then removed his helmet and raised his arms aloft as applause rolled around the ground.

The moment was repeated at the start of the following over, as King, who also saw a cut off Archer burst through the hands of Jordan Cox in the covers on 86, swatted the same bowler through fine leg to raise his third century in the format. King was bowled by Topley with 13 required, but the result was beyond doubt.

Kensington Oval, said he was “not sure what we’re going to get” from the surface; but his seamers cer-

livery that went away just enough to take the outside edge. Shepherd then enjoyed immediate success when replacing Joseph, as Bethell slashed at a wide delivery only to be spectacularly held by the leaping Roston Chase at point.

When Livingstone fell to another catch at the wicket in trying to force a drive off Shepherd, England were flatlining at 24 for 4 with one ball left in the powerplay. One of the

effort in Barbados; albeit, 11 not out off 26 balls told of England’s struggle.

Salt found useful allies in Curran and Mousley, adding consecutive stands of 70 for the fifth and sixth wickets. Curran, again up the order at #6, was proactive from the outset, but fell in looking to take on Chase’s offspin.

The alacrity with which the West Indies hunted down their requirement amply

tainly knew how to exploit the conditions, leaving England four down and tottering inside the first powerplay.

The main source of discomfort for the West Indies early on came via an extraordinary on-field contretemps between Alzarri Joseph and Shai Hope, the fast bowler seemingly unhappy with the field set for England’s #3, Cox. Joseph could be seen repeatedly remonstrating with his captain from the top of his run-up, and he took his frustration out on the batter, Cox barely seeing a 148kph/92mph lifter that flicked the glove on its way through. Joseph didn’t celebrate, and walked off at the end of the over, briefly leaving West Indies with 10 men on the field.

Matthew Forde had already struck in his second over - responding to being driven for four by Will Jacks

with a similar

England

batters still standing was Salt. His half-century in the second ODI was the first time he had batted through the powerplay since June 2022, but he backed up that

Mousley then continued the rebuilding effort, with Salt grinding away to a 79-ball fifty - by far the slowest of his five in ODIs. England were 163 for 5 at the end of the 40th, but lost Salt in the following over, King’s athleticism at deep midwicket resulting in a comfortable relay catch for Joseph. Shepherd then collapsed after catching his studs in the turf, and had to be helped from the field as the momentum shifted again. Mousley fell shortly after reaching fifty, but lower-order cameos from Overton (32 off 21) and Archer (38 not out off 17) saw Rutherford’s medium-pace bowling take a battering and 100 runs being bled from the last ten overs. That ended up as a footnote after King and Carty took charge. (ESPNCricinfo)

Keacy Carty celebrated reaching his maiden ODI hundred

Matthew Forde removed Will Jacks in his first over

Phil Salt driving down the ground

Rangpur Riders, Cricket Victoria reveal GSL T20 squads

Two more teams have unveiled their rosters ahead of the inaugural season of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 tournament, set to bowl off in Guyana later this month.

The Rangpur Riders and Cricket Victoria have confirmed their squads for the 2024 edition of the ExxonMobil Guyanasponsored event, which will take place at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara from November 26th to December 7th.

Bangladesh’s Rangpur Riders squad would feature experienced Bangladesh internationals Nurul Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, Afif Hossain and Mahedi Hasan. They will be joined by overseas players

Matthew Forde from West Indies, Wayne Madsen and Zak Chappel from England, and Harmeet Singh from the USA.

The full Rangpur Riders squad for the 2024 GSL is

as follows: Nurul Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, Mahedi Hasan, Afif Hossain, Mohammad Saifuddin, Saif Hassan, Rishad Hossain, Arafat Sunny, Kamrul Islam, Mathew Forde

(West Indies), Harmeet Singh (USA), Wayne Madsen (England) and Zak Chappell (England).

On the other hand, Australia Cricket Victoria is bolstered by a number of

USA and Caribbean players alongside their local cohort, namely: Joe Clarke, Corey Anderson, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Jahmar Hamilton, Karima Gore, Carmi Le Roux, Callum

Stow, Juanoy Drysdale, Max Birthesal, David Moody, Scott Edwards (Wk), Blake Mc Donald, Jon Wells and Farzan Chowna.

About Global Super League

The Global Super League is an annual T20 tournament that takes place in Guyana. It features T20 teams from around the world. The inaugural event would take place at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence. Five teams would compete across 11 matches, which take place from 26 November to 7 December 2024, for a US$1million prize fund. The five teams for the 2024 tournament will be: Guyana Amazon Warriors, Hampshire Hawks, Lahore Qalandars, Rangpur Riders and Victoria.

Second no-result for GHE, as rain has the final say

As the Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE) made a positive march towards solidifying a spot in the top four of the CG United Regional Super50 tournament, it quite literally ‘rained on their parade’ on Thursday, as the local team was forced to endure yet another washed-out fixture.

Taking on the Jamaica Scorpions at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, the Harpy Eagles won the toss and elected to bowl first. Ashmead Need was able to make early inroads, and with the support of Veerasamy Permaul and company, was able to stifle the Scorpions’ batters, though they offered some resistance.

Nedd first removed Carlos Bowen for 2 runs,

while Chanderpaul rattled Kirk Mckenzie’s stumps for a duck. However, a 73run partnership between John Campbell and Jermain Blackwood brought the Scorpions back to life.

Campbell hit a half-century, 53 in 65 deliveries, before becoming Permaul’s victim.

From there, the Guyanese bowlers picked at the Jamaica wickets at regular intervals whilst Blackwood continued to hold one end.

Things took a turn for the worse in the 42nd over, when the heavens opened in Port-of -Spain and persistent showers forced the players off the field. At that point, the Scorpions were 162-6 in 41.3 overs and the Harpy Eagles were in full

SCOREBOARD

control.

The players could not take to the field for the remainder of the afternoon,

as the drenched outfield posed another threat to the restart of the game after hours of rain. As such, the

Harpy Eagles would have to wait until Saturday to hunt their second victory of the 2024 tournament, when

they take on the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force at the Queen’s Park Oval from 09:00hrs.

Lennox Blackmore Intermediate punches off tonight

All roads would tonight lead to the Andrew ‘Six Heads’ Lewis Gym in Albouystown, Georgetown, where the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) would be staging the annual Lennox Blackmore National Intermediate boxing Championships. The first bell is scheduled for 18:00hrs.

These championships were supposed to be hosted at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue from today, Friday November 8th, to Sunday November 10th, but the staging has now been shifted to a new location, and action would be seen only on Friday and Saturday night.

President of the GBA, Steve Ninvalle, has said, “While the National Gymnasium has served in recent years as the venue for this auspicious event, the decision to stage the championship at the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis facility can be viewed as an opportunity to promote the sport

within the community. Decentralisation is not only a reality of moving from one region to another, but also amongst communities within that jurisdiction.”

He further said, “We believe that this decision will bring a different ambience, environment and flavour to the event, which has not only improved in quality with each iteration, but also importance to the discipline. Like many sports in Guyana, boxing has always

been community-based, and we believe that the best way to promote the discipline is to return to its proverbial roots, and what better way to do that than to stage a major championship at a venue that is named after one of Guyana’s most famous athletes, who was not only a world champion, but a son of that community?”

The event, which concludes tomorrow at the same venue, had initially been slated for staging in

October, but rescheduling became necessary because of the unfortunate passing of GBA Technical Director Terrence Poole, who had been a vital cog in the administration of the event.

Participation has been confirmed from several notable gyms, including the Guyana Defence Force, the Guyana Police Force, the Forgotten Youth Foundation, Pace and Power, New Amsterdam Academy, Rose Hall, Vergenoegen, and Republicans.

The official medical examination and weigh-in process for the event occurred yesterday at the Mandela Avenue facility under the guidance of trained professionals.

The tournament is named after former Commonwealth champion and world-ranked pugilist Lennox Blackmoore, who ended a celebrated career with an impressive record of 30 fights, 25 wins, and five losses.

Cricket Victoria are currently 14 strong for the GSL T20

GBA President Steve Ninvalle

Rain had the final say in the clash between Harpy Eagles and Jamaica Scorpions

The Harpy Eagles would now look to bag their second win on Saturday against the T T Red Force

The much-anticipat-

ed ticket sales for the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League T20 matches in Guyana are set to begin on Saturday, November 9th, 2024, at the local box office from 09:00 hours.

Cricket enthusiasts can secure their seats for the action-packed tournament, which runs from 08.30 hours to 16:30 hours on weekdays, and from 09:00 hours to 13:00 hours on Saturdays, at the box office located at 233-234 Camp Street in Georgetown.

Ticket prices range from $1,000 to $7,000, and tickets are available for all stands.

The inaugural ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League runs from 26 November to 7 December, and would see five teams from around the world competing at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence for a US$1million prize pool.

The five teams that would be participating in the tournament are: Hampshire Hawks, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Lahore Qalandars, Rangpur Riders and Victoria. The ultimate global cricket showdown is coming to Guyana.

Tuesday November 26:

Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Lahore Qalandars (7pm)

Here is the lineup of matches and ticket availability:

Wednesday November 27: Hampshire Hawks vs Rangur Riders (7pm)

Friday November 29: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Victoria (7pm)

Saturday November 30: Hampshire Hawks vs Lahore Qalandars (10am)

Sunday December 1: Rangpur Riders vs Victoria (10am)

Sunday December 1:

Keacy Carty, Brandon King hundreds seal ODI series for West Indies

Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Hampshire Hawks (7pm)

Tuesday December 3: Victoria vs Lahore Qalandars (7pm)

Wednesday December 4: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Rangpur Riders (7pm)

Thursday December 5: Lahore Qalandars vs Rangpur Riders (7pm)

Friday December 6: Hampshire Hawks vs Victoria (7pm)

Saturday December 7: GSLT20 Final (7pm)

Local Box office on Camp street Georgetown