Guyana Times - Saturday, August 10, 2024.pdf

“You are the change for your community” – Region 2 Chair to ICT graduates

4 underaged Brazilian girls smuggled

AG appeals $2M judgment to Roxanne Myers for unlawful arrest

Shotguns, ganja found in abandoned house in Berbice River

New housing areas identified – Croal on increased demand for housing

55 women among 186 new GDF recruits

2 plead guilty to murder of Better Hope moneychanger, daughter

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo met with residents of several communities in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) on Friday as he conducted an outreach in the region (Office of the Vice President photos)

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Saturday August 10, 2024 at 21:00hrs for a period of one and a half hours.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday August 10, 2024 at 07:15hrs for one and a half hours.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Light to thundery showers are expected during the day, interrupted by sunshine in the late-afternoon hours. Clear to partly cloudy skies and thundery showers are expected at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to South SouthEasterly between 0.89 metre and 2.68 metres.

High Tide: 06:43h and 19:00h reaching maximum heights of 2.59 metres and 2.53 metres.

Low Tide: 12:37h reaching a minimum height of 0.66 metre.

“We can’t control prices in supermarkets” – Mustapha on hike in rice costs …assures of adequate supplies for both local, foreign

Agriculture Minister

Zulfikar Mustapha has stated that Government cannot control the increase in prices for rice in the supermarkets but assures that there is sufficient supply to meet the demands of both local and foreign markets.

He made this comment during the consideration of an $8.5 billion Financial Paper in the National Assembly on Friday. This sum was advances made from the Constingency Fund for the period April 1 to July 30, 2024.

Mustapha was grilled on a $524 million subvention to the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB). He was asked by Opposition Member of Parliament, Vinceroy Jordan, about the industry’s capability to meet both local and foreign demands.

“I met yesterday

and that is not a supply problem. We have enough [to] supply… We are living in a market economy and we can’t put a controlled price on the supermarkets but I asked the millers to put a recommended price, which they will do… The point is that we don’t have a shortage of rice locally or for exports,” minister explained.

Replenish GRDB’s account

The funds sought, which were eventually approved in the National Assembly, was to replenish the GRDB account after government first reduced the commission paid by millers by 25 per cent to cushion the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic and then subsequently removed it completely for a four-month period last year so that rice farmers got a higher price for their paddies.

(Thursday) with GREMA –the Guyana Rice Exporters and Millers Association and they assured me that there is enough rice in the system for export and local consumption,” the minister noted.

In fact, he went onto disclose that during the first crop of this year, some 362,040 tonnes of rice were produced. The agriculture minister is confident in achieving the 710,000 tonnes production target that was set for 2024.

In light of the minister’s response, the Opposition MP further questioned Mustapha about the increase in the cost of rice in the local market – a situation which the agriculture minister contended was not caused by any shortages.

“That is why I met with the millers [on Thursday]. They assured me that the price remained the same,

While the commission was removed from April to August 2024, the agriculture minister disclosed that it has since been restored and there are efforts now to gradually increase the commission from the current 75 per cent back to the full 100 per cent cost.

“We are working here with a supply-chain management, [but] we are working with the millers. As a matter of fact, only yesterday [Thursday] I had a meeting with GREMA and the millers assured me that seeing we’re having now increase in production, we will try as much as a possible to go back to normalcy,” Mustapha stated.

Meanwhile, this $524 million shortfall at GRDB accounts for $404.8 million in employment cost, $42.9 million for materials and supplies, $11.1 million for utilities, $21.7 million for

markets

out of crop maintenance, $43.3 million field operations.

According to the agriculture minister, there were certain circumstances such as paddy bug infestations, irrigation issues and even the impact of the El Niño phenomenon, among others, that needed urgent attention hence the money had to be spent on addressing them.

Increased production

Only earlier this week, Mustapha disclosed that Guyana’s rice sector has generated a whopping US$127 million already for the year even as a production continues to increase.

“When you look at the rice industry, we are seeing a lot also for a revenue coming in for example in 2023 the rice industry brought in US$212 million for this year, almost US$127 million have already been generated by this industry so rice is an important part of our country’s development” he said during remarks on Tuesday at the closing ceremony for the Enhancing Precision Farming Practices in rice production for Guyana’s small farmers using drone technology programme, which was conducted in collaboration with GRDB and The Food and Drug Organisation.

According to Mustapha, his Ministry has been committed towards enhancing agricultural productivity. He added that through the GRDB, they have implemented several high yielding varieties of rice to commercial farmers.

“Over the last few years we have witnessed almost nine high-yielding rice vari-

eties that have been released for commercial production boosting productivity and sustainability of the rice industry recently as last year when we had the agri investment expo we launched one of the most exciting variety a more nutritious variety a variety that can attract preferential prices the biofortify rice we have collaborated with ICA to launch that variety and now that variety has been made for commercial use too in our country” he stated.

Meanwhile the exploration of new rice varieties and export markets aligns with the government’s commitment to advancing the agricultural sector and ensuring sustainable development.

In 2023, the rice sector recorded an increase of seven per cent with a production of 653,706 metric tonnes. This signifies an increase of 43,111 metric tonnes in 2023 as compared to 610,595 in 2022. Guyana earned approximately $45.2 billion in exports in 2023, over $3 billion more than in 2022.

This year, $1.3 billion was budgeted to be expended by the GRDB to support increased production and productivity of the rice industry.

Mustapha explained that the government would continue to implement various measures to bring immense relief to rice farmers so as to maintain the level of production. So far, farmers have benefited from the distribution of seed paddy and availability of more farmlands to increase yields, and a number of facilities have been built and upgraded to aid in the nation’s rice production. (G8)

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

Opposition MP Vinceroy Jordan

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Guardians of Guyana’s forests

Yesterday Guyana joined the rest of the world in observing International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, to honour the rich cultural heritage, resilience, and contributions of Indigenous communities across the globe. This day, established by the United Nations in 1994, is a crucial reminder of the unique challenges faced by these communities, and the importance of protecting their rights, lands, and traditions.

In Guyana, Amerindians constitute a significant part of the nation's identity, as their deep connection to the land, traditional knowledge, and sustainable practices have long played a vital role in the preservation of Guyana’s vast natural ecosystems.

It is essential that, in observing this day, there is reflection on the strides made towards ensuring the well-being of Amerindian communities and the preservation of their lands, especially within the framework of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

The LCDS, launched in 2009 and recently updated, has been a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to balance economic development with environmental preservation. This strategy, centred on the sustainable management of Guyana’s forests, offers significant benefits to Amerindian communities, which have historically been the stewards of the country’s most biodiverse regions.

One of the key benefits of the LCDS to Amerindian communities is the direct financial support through the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF). Funds derived from the conservation of forests under this framework have been used to improve infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other essential services in Indigenous villages. This not only enhances the quality of life for Amerindians, but also empowers them to participate in national development without compromising their cultural integrity or the environment.

Moreover, the LCDS has facilitated the titling and demarcation of Amerindian lands, a crucial step in recognising and securing the land rights of Indigenous peoples. Land ownership is not just a matter of economic value for these communities; it is intrinsically tied to their identity, culture, and spiritual practices. The titling process, therefore, is a fundamental aspect of protecting their way of life and ensuring that they can continue to manage their lands according to traditional practices.

Another significant aspect of the LCDS is its emphasis on involving Indigenous communities in decision-making processes. The strategy encourages consultations and the active participation of Amerindians in discussions about land use, environmental policies, and development projects. This inclusive approach ensures that the voices of those who are most affected by these decisions are heard and respected.

LCDS has brought substantial benefits, which have seen all Amerindian communities benefiting.

It is important that, as a nation - not only on International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples - the commitment to addressing challenges and continue working towards a future in which the rights, lands, and cultures of Indigenous peoples are fully respected and protected be celebrated and recognized.

The Amerindian communities of Guyana have shown remarkable resilience in the face of historical and contemporary challenges. It is hoped that a collective responsibility be given to support their efforts to preserve their heritage and ensure that they thrive in a rapidly developing economy.

As Guyana continues to develop its natural resources, it is imperative that this is done in a manner that also protects our Indigenous communities. The LCDS provides a model for sustainable development that benefits all Guyanese, especially those who have been the guardians of Guyana’s forests for generations.

Anti-racists saved Britain, now it’s time for Keir Starmer to take action

By ShaiSta aziz

Thousands of anti-racists took to the streets across the north and south of England on Wednesday evening, reclaiming our towns and cities from the far-right rioters who have been terrorising British Muslims, people of colour, refugees, and migrants over the past eight devastating days.

In doing so, anti-racists have also reclaimed the narrative from the politicians and media operatives who have emboldened these violent racists with their inflammatory rhetoric on migration, making it clear that the majority in Britain does not buy into their hatemongering, and that our multiracial neighbourhoods and communities are “no go zones” for the far-right.

This unprecedented show of force from the decent people of Britain came on the back of a warning from police that more than 100 far-right gatherings were planned across the country on Wednesday. It was said that the far right, who have already been causing havoc across the country in so-called “anti-immigration” demos for days, were planning to attack the offices of immigration lawyers and refugee and migration charities, as well as mosques and community buildings.

People who have been horrified by such attacks earlier, as well as the widespread looting and violence against police officers that accompanied them, said enough is enough. Combined with a determined response from the police (more than 400 rioters have been arrested, and some 140 have already been charged), the presence of anti-racists and anti-fascists on the streets in large numbers proved enough to intimidate the far-right thugs. In the end, in many localities where such violent gatherings were planned, only a handful of farright rioters showed up.

It seems the race riots are now over, and those who participated in them, or even encouraged them from afar, are starting to feel the “full force of the law”, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer promised.

While this victory against racists and fascists, this rec-

lamation of Britain’s identity, should undoubtedly be celebrated, there is also an urgent need to ask: How did we end up with far-right riots on our streets? And what can we do to prevent a repeat of this atrocity?

Many in Britain have pointed to online disinformation as the source of the far-right riots. Indeed, misleading inflammatory social media content scapegoating Muslims and refugees for all that is wrong with the country -- from the rising cost of living to lack of housing, and even heinous crimes against children -- has played an important role in emboldening the worst in our society to take over our streets. Nonetheless, British Muslims and those belonging to other ethnic minorities in this country know for a fact that the hate that led to the events of this past week is much older than social media.

These riots triggered old traumas in our communities that go back at least half a century. Indeed, those of us who are the children of working-class migrants invited to Britain to rebuild the country after World War II feel like we experienced first-hand in this past week the discrimination, hate, and intimidation our parents faced in this country in the 1970s and 1980s.

Our parents had told us how elders, youths and women from our communities were told to stay home when far-right thugs were out in the streets looking for targets, victims. Last week, that sad history repeated itself. There have been warnings for Muslim women and elders, and everyone else who happens to look as if they may be Muslim or a “migrant”, to stay at home, to avoid certain streets and neighbourhoods. We feared we might be harassed, beaten up, or even face acid attacks as we tried to go about our daily business.

This past week has also reminded us that the especially potent anti-Muslim hate and bigotry that was unleashed in the aftermath of 9/11 did not go anywhere, despite years of anti-racist efforts to curtail it.

After al-Qaeda’s attack on New York’s twin towers 25 years ago, the United States and its

allies, including the United Kingdom, embarked on a socalled “war on terror”, unleashing unimaginable terror and suffering on Muslim communities in Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and across the Middle East. Simultaneously, Muslims began to be demonised in political and popular culture, which fully normalised and mainstreamed anti-Muslim bigotry.

This two-pronged campaign of destruction and dehumanisation inevitably had a profound impact on Muslims living across the West, including the UK. Post-9/11, in most of Europe, Islamophobia became state policy. States started banning the niqab, the hijab, the building of mosques and the call to prayer.

There were several attempts to ban halal meat across different countries. For years, most mainstream media in Europe proudly disseminated Islamophobia, publishing without consequence false stories and hysterical headlines to fuel bigotry against Muslim communities.

In the UK, anti-Muslim, anti-immigration and anti-refugee voices in media and politics have been as loud as those on the continent, but there has also always been a widespread effort to defend multiculturalism and all the communities, including Muslims, that make Britain great.

In the past few years, however, there has been a concerted effort to undo the anti-racist gains made in our country since 9/11. The politicians and the media tried their best to demonise Muslims and baselessly present our communities as a threat to the future of our nation.

Especially since the beginning of Israel’s war on Gaza, we have seen a return to the dark days in the immediate aftermath of 9/11. The anti-genocide marches calling for peace and a ceasefire were branded as “hate”, and British Muslims demanding an end to the killing were branded as “hatemongers” by those in political power as well as in mainstream national media.

All this led to the horrific explosion of hate we have seen on our streets in the past week. Indeed, the race riots were an inevitable consequence of all this –

thanks to the efforts of anti-racists they lasted only a week, but they were decades in the making. Now that the far-right threat on our streets appears to have been quelled, affected communities are trying to catch their breath and process what they have experienced.

So how can we prevent the repeat of this horrific explosion of hate against Muslim and other minority communities?

The only way to ensure the UK never sees such racist riots again, the only way that our communities can feel fully safe and secure in this country, is for the government to embark on a war against dangerous far-right ideologies.

The government must take the far right and its Islamophobic bigotry head on, defend and uphold the internationally recognised rights of asylum seekers and migrants. It must create a new asylum and immigration system that is aligned with international law and respectful of the dignity and humanity of all people.

Further, it must make its stance on Islamophobia clear. Unless the leaders of this country recognise that hatred of Muslims, migrant and refugees is a source of domestic terror, that it is threatening the very fabric of British society, I am certain that there will be other weeks of shame in this country’s future when minorities are told to stay home for their safety. The government must now thank the British people who stopped the far right in its tracks, and take immediate action to ensure their efforts were not in vain.

Starmer and his cabinet must defend multiculturalism and simultaneously take action to address the deep-seated inequalities and injustices affecting the UK’s multiracial working classes that allow for far-right ideologies to take hold in our country. Anything else would be capitulating to far-right extremists and handing power to them over all our lives. (Al Jazeera)

(Shaista Aziz is a political commentator, journalist and writer. She’s a former Labour councillor and national anti-racism and equalities campaigner)

A model young professional home at the International Building Expo 2024, being hosted at the National Stadium at Providence, EBD (CH&PA photo)

$600M spent to rehab control room destroyed by fire at Albion Sugar Factory

…house approves $4B for GuySuCo

The Government has expended some $600 million on the rehabilitation of the control room at the Albion Sugar Factory, which was destroyed by a fire back earlier this year.

The February 3rd fire at the Albion Estate destroyed millions of dollars in specialised pieces of equipment in the control room resulting in the disruption of the operations at the sugar factory.

On Friday, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha told the National Assembly that critical repairs have been executed to prepare the factory to resume operations.

“Only two days, Albion burnt cane to start the crop and that factory will commence grinding. And we spent approximately $600 million to rehabilitate the entire power house because of the fire,” the minister noted.

He was at the time responding to questions from Opposition Member of Parliament, Vinceroy Jordan, who also raised concerns about the monies spent.

Jordan cited a preliminary report from the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), which had stated the fire caused serious damage to crucial electrical infrastructure in the Powerhouse including

the four megawatts generating control panel, 2.5 megawatts generating control panels, 700 kilowatts low voltage cap set control panel, 3.3 kv interbus transformer, interbus transformer barker, a section of the low voltage bus bar and several major section of the circuitry.

At the time, the sugar corporation had estimated damages to be around $50 million.

Based on that figure from GuySuCo, the Opposition parliamentarian questioned the spending of the $600 million to carry out the repairs.

In response, the agriculture minister committed to providing a breakdown of how and on what the money was spent to repair the power-

house.

Meanwhile, Mustapha went onto note that preliminary investigations revealed that the fire was electrical in origin.

MP Jordan enquired whether that cause was as a result of any neglect. “We want to know, was it as a result of overheating, negligence. What is it?”

The agriculture minister maintained the fire was “… electrical in origin. I’m not an electrician… They said they had some feedback power into the system that caused overheating and caused the fire.”

The control system that was destroyed plays a significant part in the factory’s operation. It controls the de-

vices that grind the cane to extract the juice and also the elements that lead to the boilers. The control system is also responsible for regulating the temperature of the boilers. The system, which is computerised, controls most of the mechanical parts of the factory.

GuySuCo had noted at the time that large sections of the wiring would have to be replaced along with the damaged panels, and all of the breakers, and other components, in order to return the factory to a state of readiness to grind sugar.

With the fire halting operations, the Albion Factory missed the grinding of sugar in the First Crop of 2024. In fact, the sugarcanes from that estate had to be sent to the Rose Hall Factory to be grinded.

This fire came just after GuySuCo had announced critical upgrades to the infrastructural and equipment components of the Albion Sugar Estate have been undertaken to ensure greater efficiency this year.

The sugar company noted that 36 bridges were rehabilitated to improve access to the canes. Some of these bridges were unusable for over 12 years.

2 plead guilty to murder of Better Hope moneychanger, daughter

Forty-year-old Paul Chan, also called “Anthony”, of Dennis Street, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, and 47-yearold Troy Abrams, called “Rasta Man”, of Middle Street, Agricola, East Bank Demerara (EBD), on Friday pleaded guilty to the July 14, 2019 murder of Better Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD) moneychanger Aaron Latchman, and his daughter Arianna Latchman.

The accused duo appeared before Justice Navindra Singh recently and had the charge read to them. They were represented by attorney Ronald Bostwick, while the prosecution was spearheaded by Tinesha Sagon, Carissa Henry, Praneta Seeraj, and Christopher Belfield. They will return to court on September 30, 2024 for sentencing. Initially, five persons had been charged for the crime, but the charge against Sean Thomas, called

der, both Aaron Latchman and his 19-year-old daughter Arianna had just returned to their home at Lot 58 Robert Street, Better Hope, East Coast Demerara when they were attacked by armed men. It is alleged that the bandits held the man and his daughter at gunpoint and took them into the upper flat of their home, where they demanded money. Upon receiving a bag that contained an undisclosed

arm and several rounds of ammunition were found.

Two of the accused killers – Abrams and Sadloo –had previously been arrested and placed before the court for various offences, ranging from robbery-under-arms to trafficking in narcotics.

Abrams had, in 2016, been found guilty of robbery-under-arms committed on moneychangers Rayburn Fraser and Osaffo Ward at

“Yankee”, of William Street, Kitty, Georgetown, was discharged by the magistrate during the preliminary inquiry, and Lloyd Sadloo of Mocha, East Bank Demerara (EBD) was acquitted in May. The fifth accused, 25-year-old Mark Rufina, escaped from the Lusignan Prison at some time between October 20 and October 21, 2020, and remains on the run.

RECAP

It has been reported that, on the day of the mur-

amount of cash, the bandits shot the moneychanger and his daughter before escaping.

Shortly thereafter, the businessman and his daughter had been rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where they had both been pronounced dead.

Sometime later, a motorcar that belonged to the dead businessman, which had been used by the bandits, was found at Front Road, La Penitence, Georgetown. During a search of the vehicle, an illegal fire-

America Street, Georgetown on November 3, 2015, and had been sentenced to five years in prison.

Sadloo had, in 2008, been charged with murder. It is unclear at this time what had been the outcome of that matter. However, in 2016, Sadloo had been handed a four-year prison sentence after being found guilty of trafficking in marijuana. He had also previously been charged with armed robbery and escaping from lawful custody.

Further, 22 tractors that were down owing to a shortage of spares were all repaired, and 95 per cent of the field machines were re-fitted with new tyres during October to increase availability and reliability.

The estate had also noted that this year, it would continue to prioritise innovation and efficiency to further enhance its productivity and streamline its production process.

Subvention

These issues were raised in the National Assembly on Friday when the Committee of Supply was considering a $4.042 billion supplementary funding for GuySuCo, which was eventually approved.

A disaggregation of this figure showed that under Irrigation, whopping $397 million was for fuel and another $81 million for other aspects of the D&I works while issues relating to machinery (excavators and tractors) amounted to $45 million along with other costs.

Minister Mustapha disclosed that the local sugar industry suffered from the effects of the El Niño phenomenon that resulted in some stunted growth in sugarcanes hence they had to replant crops.

He further cited a report from the International Sugar Organisation, which projected the global sugar deficit for 2024-2025 to be 4.36 million metric tonnes of sugar, that is, 47 per cent or 1.4 million metric tonne reduction in global production.

“We have this serious problem. We had the stunted growth of canes… We are working on these problems… Almost 45 per cent now of the industry’s cultivation have been mechanised, where we have now built the broad beds. We have started the re-cultivation of canes back at Skeldon [Estate]. We’ll do 5,000 hectares of cane at Skeldon. We are now continuing planting at Rose Hall and Albion [estates],” Mustapha noted.

Only last week, Mustapha had told the National Assembly that GuySuCo has produced some 6,738 tonnes of sugar for its first crop of 2024, falling short of the initial target of 16,000 tonnes. He explained that this shortfall is a result of the devastating effects of the prolonged drought, which “significantly restricted the growth of canes”.

In a written response to opposition queries, the agriculture minister provided a breakdown of the production at various estates. He 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.

Last year, GuySuCo accomplished a noteworthy milestone by exceeding its yearly sugar output target of 60,000 tonnes. In the sugar sector, 28 per cent growth was recorded last year. This was a result of GuySuCo having produced 60,204 tonnes in 2023, compared with 47,049 tonnes in 2022. (G8)

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

The five men who had initially been charged for the murder

Dead: Arianna Latchman and her father Aaron Latchman

Page Foundation

Points and lines

A point is a specific location in space. It has no dimensions, and you cannot measure it. Since it would be impossible to see anything with no dimensions, we usually represent a point with a dot. Points are usually identified by a capital letter.

A line is a straight path that goes in both directions and never ends. It has only one dimension – length. However, when we draw a line, it actually has a tiny bit of width – the width of a pencil point – or we would not be able to see it! A line can be identified by any two points located anywhere on it.

You can identify a line in either direction. Line XY = Line YX. Some lines intersect. Intersecting lines cross each other at a specific point. Line AB and Line CD intersect at point E. A line extends in both directions. It does not come to an end in either direction. Its only dimension is length.

1) Use a symbol to name this figure

2) Identify the following figure

3) Using symbols, give two names for this figure

5) Is DB in the figure above a line? Explain your answer.

Remember

By John Keats

Give me a golden pen, and let me lean On heaped-up flowers, in regions clear, and far; Bring me a tablet whiter than a star, Or hand of hymning angel, when ‘tis seen

The silver strings of heavenly harp atween:

Exercises: Solve

4) What is the point of intersection?

And let there glide by many a pearly car Pink robes, and wavy hair, and diamond jar, And half-discovered wings, and glances keen. The while let music wander round my ears, And as it reaches each delicious ending, Let me write down a line of glorious tone, And full of many wonders of the spheres: For what a height my spirit is contending! ‘Tis not content so soon to be alone.

WORD SEARCH:

Prime suspect in lawyer's murder commits suicide

…as CCTV footage shows duo driving along Sherrif Street before discovery of killing

One day after 35-yearold attorney-at-law

Richard Layne had been found murdered in front of his home at Century Palm Gardens in Durban Backlands, Georgetown, his roommate Tony Sulker, a 29-year-old police sergeant, has died by suicide.

Guyana Times understands that Sulker had been questioned following the discovery of Layne’s body, but had been released on Thursday evening, although ordered to return to the CID Headquarters on Friday.

“He did turn up, but left unknowingly to the detectives …it is assumed that he was told that detectives were along Sherrif Street looking at CCTV footage…he left, and it is further assumed that he purchased the poison, went home, and drank it,” a source close to the investigation explained.

Before the police had collected the CCTV footage that incriminated Sulker, Sulker had been questioned but denied leaving the home on that fateful night. The evidence, however, revealed that Sulker and Layne had been in the car driving along Sherrif Street.

Further, the source has said that, contrary to reports that Sulker had confessed to the crime, detectives had been unable to question him because of his medical condition.

In addition, this publica-

tion has been informed that the late attorney and the police sergeant might have shared an intimate relationship.

An autopsy performed on the body of Layne by Government Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh determined that his death has resulted from a stab wound to the neck. According to the autopsy results, the wound went from left to right, and it was determined that a sharp instrument – measuring at least 17cm in length – had been used.

Meanwhile, police on Friday evening said that further investigations were conducted, and detectives on Friday canvassed Sheriff Street for additional CCTV footage. On viewing the CCTV footage obtained from a nearby building on Sheriff Street in the vicinity of Kamboat Chinese Restaurant, it was observed that at about 21:31h

on the night of August 7, Layne's car -- a burgundy Jaguar vehicle with number plate PYY 2850, was observed driving north on Sheriff Street and stopped in the vicinity of the Kamboat Restaurant.

“It was then observed that a male, suspected to be Tony Sulker, dressed in black three-quarter pants and a green jersey, exited the Jaguar car's back passenger seat and went into Kamboat Restaurant. A short while after, it was observed that Sulker exited Kamboat with a white plastic bag containing what appeared to be Chinese food and entered the car's front passenger seat. The Jaguar car then proceeded to turn west onto John Street. There were no more cameras in that area to see where the car turned. However, at 21:39 hrs, it was observed that the car drove south along Mandela Avenue and then turned east into Hadfield

Street, heading towards D'Urban Backlands,” Police said in a statement.

According to Police, at about 13:00h on Friday, the mother of Layne, contacted the police and reported that she was about to leave her deceased son's residence at Lot 183 Century Palm D'Urban Backlands when she observed Sulker drove into the yard at a fast rate and parked his car in the garage.

“She said she immediately sensed something was wrong and decided to turn back. When she got to the house, she observed Sulker lying at the door on the bottom flat of the said house with what appeared to be vomit and a green substance about his body. She immediately called the ambulance, and EMT from Central Fire Service responded. Sulker was escorted to the GPHC,” the police statement said. Police further said that Sulker's car, an Allion bearing registration number PAC 7428, was seen parked in the yard. The vehicle was processed, and two white bottles with a green liquid substance were found on the floor of the vehicle.

A search was carried out on the house, and the clothing Sulker was seen wearing on the CCTV footage obtained on the night in question was found in a washing machine on the bottom flat of the house, already washed and dried.

“Other dirty clothing was seen in his clothes basket. The items were all placed in separate evidence bags, sealed, and taken to the crime laboratory for forensic examination. DNA samples were also taken from Tony Sulker,” the statement noted.

RECAP

It has been reported that Layne’s lifeless body was found on Wednesday evening in his Jaguar motorcar that was parked in front of his home, and there were two gaping wounds to his neck. At the time of the incident, the late lawyer had shared a house with his friend Sulker.

Police have said that, at about 19:00h on Wednesday, Layne’s cousin Michael Harden had reportedly visited him, and they had hung out for some time. While Harden was there, Layne had had the urge to drink a Starbucks Coffee, and they had left in Harden’s car to go to the MovieTowne Mall at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, where they had bought the coffee. They returned to Layne’s home at about 19:15h.

By this time, Sulker was asleep in his room in the upper flat of the building, and Harden and Layne had reportedly hung out on the verandah until about 20:17h, when Harden left for his

home at Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Harden has told detectives that, before he left, he had made sure that Layne had locked both gates to the house and yard. At the time, Layne’s car, a Jaguar registered as PYY 2850, was parked in the garage.

Sulker is said to have awoken at about 22:00h to use the washroom, and had then gone to the kitchen, where he observed Layne’s car parked on the bridge in front of the house with Layne in the driver’s seat in a ‘slumped position’. Upon seeing this, he reportedly ran to the car and attempted to open the car doors, but they were all locked. He then contacted Layne’s mother who resides in Campbellville, Georgetown, and upon her arrival, they both attempted to open the car doors, but were unsuccessful.

At that time, the woman instructed Sulker to break the glass to the driver’s side door, which he did by using a hammer. As they opened the door, they observed Layne was bleeding from a wound to his neck, and immediately summoned an ambulance and contacted the police.

Layne was, however, pronounced dead by a doctor at the Georgetown Public Hospital. Upon inspection, two wounds were seen on Layne’s neck. Investigations are ongoing.

GBTI launches HomeStart Advantage savings account

The Guyana Bank for Trade & Industry (GBTI) has launched its latest innovation in financial services, HomeStart Advantage Savings Account.

This initiative was unveiled on Friday during the International Building Expo 2024, where Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, commended GBTI for advancing government’s policies aimed at ensuring housing opportunities for all Guyanese.

“We are just talking about one institution, but good policy can improve any institution and record incredible growth. It’s the same thing we want for every Guyanese if these opportunities are understood and people can respond and take advantage of all the opportunities,” she stated.

Rodrigues further highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every Guyanese

During the launch, Rodrigues emphasised the importance of good policy in fostering institutional growth and expanding opportunities for citizens.

can prosper and participate in the growing economy.

“That’s why it’s important for people to understand the goals of the government, and we’ve been unwavering in that regard. The main focus in everything we are doing is that every Guyanese can prosper. Everyone can participate in this growing economy, and it’s the same we want for every single Guyanese,” she added.

The minister also underscored the critical role of public-private partnerships in achieving these goals, noting that the public sector is of

great importance to the government.

“That is why we rely on the private sector, and we look forward to public-private partnerships so that more

and more people can have access to services that can improve their lives,” she said.

Rodrigues also pointed out the potential of the HomeStart Advantage

Savings Account to help customers develop the discipline necessary to save for their home.

Murdered: Richard Layne Dead: Tony Sulker

waterfront after police received information that he was carrying a quantity of ganja.

Police added that at the time of his arrest, Beharry was found carrying a black plastic bag containing the cannabis. As such, he was told of the offence committed and cautioned during which he stated “Officer, it is not

my own.” However, he appeared before Magistrate Tamieka Clarke at the Suddie Magistrates Court and pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him. During the hearing, the Prosecutor objected to bail, and as such, Beharry was remanded to prison until a later date.

N/A fisherman busted with cannabis remanded Caught…

…in sh*t

Tgrams of cannabis were found

hirty-three-year-old Matthew Beharry, a fisherman of New Amsterdam Berbice who was nabbed with 134.5 grams of ganja on Tuesday at Supenaam, Essequibo Coast, was on Thursday charged and remanded to prison.

Police stated that on the day in question at about 23:45h, Beharry also called ‘Shortman’ was arrested at a boat house at the Supenaam

Labourer charged with rape 2 years after allegedly committing act

Twenty-four-yearold Saied Mohamed, a labourer of Affiance, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) was on Thursday charged and

granted bail on a rape charge.

Police stated that the alleged act was committed on September 19, 2022, at Suddie, Essequibo Coast. However, after a thorough investigation, Mohamed was charged by the police.

He appeared before Magistrate Tamieka Clarke at the Suddie Magistrate's Court where he was not required to plead to the indictment when it was read to him.

Nevertheless, he was granted $250,000 bail with the condition that he does not interfere with the victim. The matter will be called again on August 23, 2024.

We Guyanese have a welter of sayings on the dangers of being too smart for one’s own good. But the best - in your Eyewitness’s estimation – is: “All smart fly does end up pan cow backside!!” It’s short, it’s pithy, it’s graphic; and, most of all, it reflects what goes on in real life. Take the APNU goings-on that’s been titillating us in the press. After five decades of rigging, assassinating and starving the Guyanese people, the PNC under Robert Corbin realized it had an image problem if it were to have a chance of winning free and fair elections!!

Hoyte had tried imitating Jagan’s “Civic” innovation by bringing in some outsiders and dubbing them “Reform”. Hence PNC/Reform; which, however, didn’t do a darn thing for them in the 2001 elections. Corbin himself then launched a “One Guyana” innovation and branded his party “PNCR1G” for the 2006 elections. That was an unmitigated PR disaster, since everyone read that as PNC-RIG – reminding folks of why they dreaded the PNC!!

So, for the 2011 elections, Corbin decided that the PNC name itself had to go. But how to do that and still bring out the old supporters? He came up with the bright idea of acquiring a new name: A Partnership for National Unity – APNU. But like a smart fly, he wanted to have his black pudding and eat it too. So, the “partnership” was made with some paper entities that have no real support in the community – GAP, WPA, JFAP and NDF. He figured that, as a giant among pygmies, the PNC would dominate them; so, for all intents and purposes, it’d be a well-disguised PNC down the line!!

Well, the plan worked to a “T” – APNU pulled in the base in 2011, and then went into a coalition with the AFC, which took power in 2015!! How sweet it was!! All the paper tigers were happy as pigs in mud, since they were made ministers and other big appoints that drew in massive perks. Never mind they weren’t consulted on anything – it was all about the perks, baby!! But what goes up gotta come down, and when the APNU/AFC coalition was ousted in 2020, the shit hit the fan when the PNC elected Norton as the new leader. He didn’t see no value in the nonentities, and didn’t even hold a meeting for years!! So, the paper parties finally called a meeting earlier this year, gave Norton two days’ notice, and when he didn’t show up, elected a new Executive!! He’s now being accused of being “undemocratic” for not following the new rules promulgated!

But horror of horrors, APNU’s now accepting membership from the masses!!

A new party’s born to split PNC’s votes?!!

…in a loop

A Venezuelan moderate opposition politician, who’s been around for a while, made a prediction about what he sees unfolding after the election wherein maduro was declared a winner by the Elections Council (CNE), and Maduro referred the dispute to the Supreme Court (TSJ): “If I were a prophet, I would venture to predict this likely future: very soon the TSJ will issue a ruling validating the CNE bulletin; Maduro’s proclamation as the elected president will be confirmed; and Machado will end up in prison, in exile, or seeking asylum.”

He added, “The opposition will experience a new hangover, from which it’ll be hard to recover; the electoral route will be severely damaged. In short, more imprisonment, more exiles, more deaths, more sanctions, more poverty, more backwardness…and change will be even more difficult.” So, what does this do for us?

Well, for one, there will be more refugees pouring over our border; Mad Maduro will keep rattling sabres over the border controversy - and buy out more Caricom members!!

…in flagrante

The Israelis are conducting a dress rehearsal to sacrifice an unblemished red heifer. Meaning they will destroy the Dome of the Rock and Al Aqsa Mosque, and build the third temple.

The Gaza war ain’t ending!!

Charged: Saied Mohamed

Remanded: Matthew Beharry

134.5

in Beharry’s possession

ExxonMobil Guyana launches “Is We

Own Again” Amazon Warriors' promotion

ExxonMobil Guyana on Friday announced the launch of “Is We Own Again” promotion in collaboration with the Guyana Amazon Warriors, running from August 10 to September 27, 2024.

This initiative, the company said underscores its commitment to support Guyanese culture and significant national observances, reflecting its dedication as Guyana’s energy partner.

“Supporting sport and national events like the CPL is a cornerstone of ExxonMobil's commitment to Guyana,” said Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana. “We have been proud sponsors of the Amazon Warriors since 2017, and it has been incredibly exciting to wit-

ness their journey to victory. We are immensely proud of our part in having the games in Guyana and supporting the national sport. Good luck to the Warriors this year—they have our full support!"

ExxonMobil Guyana, in a release on Friday said that it has been an integral part of the Amazon Warriors' journey.

“ExxonMobil Guyana has shown tremendous support over the last few years and has truly been a partner not only to the Warriors but to Guyana as a whole,” said the Ravi Ramcharitar, team manager of the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

“We are extremely happy to have ExxonMobil Guyana on board again this year.”

The “Is We Own Again” promotion offers numerous ways for participants to en-

ter and win amazing prizes. These prizes include Samsung Galaxy Flip devices, tickets for the games, exclusive Amazon Warriors merchandise, and more.

Participants can enter online at www.exxonmobil. com/guyanacontest, call into radio promos, submit video entries, and attend pop-up events.

4 underaged Brazilian girls smuggled into Guyana found, put in protective care ...GPF launches investigation

Ajoint investigation between law enforcement authorities in Guyana and Brazil was initiated following the alleged smuggling and trafficking of four underage Brazilian girls to Guyana.

Based on reports received, the girls between the ages of 14 and 17 were reportedly illegally transported across the border with the intent of exploitation.

As such, the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) and Migrant Smuggling Unit (MSU), in collaboration with local law enforcement officials and the Human Services and Social Security executed an operation to safely locate, identify, and place the alleged victims into protective care.

This operation was successfully conducted between August 4 and 7, 2024.

The Human Services Ministry’s C-TIP Unit, along with the Child Care and Protection Agency (CCPA) has initiated the provision of counseling, medical care, psychosocial support, and other essential services to the alleged victims.

The Home Affairs reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the safety and protection of all individuals, both locals and foreigners, with a special focus on vulnerable groups such as minors.

Furthermore, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident aimed at identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators involved.

Only recently the 2024 TIP report prepared by the US Department of State revealed that the Government of Guyana has increased its prosecution efforts against Trafficking in Persons (TIP).

During 2023, the report pointed out that 77 TIP cases were filed under the Combating Trafficking of Persons Act of 2023 resulting in ten suspects being arrested of which seven were charged. This reflected an increase from 2022 when there were 28 cases.

The prescribed penalties under the revised 2023 Act include five years to life imprisonment extended criminal liability to corporations and explicitly included the use of children for the production and distribution of narcotics within the definition of trafficking.

The law also defined trafficking broadly to include illegal adoption without the purpose of exploitation.

In addition, the report noted that the prosecutions were initiated against three alleged traffickers under other laws, including the Protection of Children Act for employing a child where liquor was sold, the Summary Jurisdiction (Offenses) Act for keeping a commercial sex establishment, and the Sexual Offense Act and the Summary Jurisdiction (Offenses Act) for sexual and bodily harm against a child younger than 16 years old. This is compared with two prosecutions under other laws in 2022.

Despite these strides in tackling this crime, the US State Department highlighted that GPF’s CounterTrafficking (C-TIP) Unit and the GPF Prosecution Unit lack the dedicated budgetary allocations to carry out their duties. The GPF’s C-TIP Unit exclusively investigates trafficking cases while the Prosecution Unit manages preliminary hearings into felony crimes –including trafficking crimes –in the Magistrates Court.

Shotguns, ganja found in abandoned house along Berbice River

Two shotguns along with a quantity of ganja and other items were discovered during a seven-hour intelligence-led operation at Ebini, Upper Berbice River on Thursday.

Based on the reports received, police ranks travelled to the area where they

Miner stabbed to death during fight over “racist remarks”

LBased on reports re-

at about 01:15h in the company of a friend; and on the way to their camp, had reportedly come into contact with the suspect. In their intoxicated state, they made racist remarks about the suspect, which reportedly angered him, and he whipped out a knife and dealt Henry a single stab wound to his abdomen. Henry collapsed, but was picked up and taken to the Kamarang District Hospital, where he succumbed to his injury.

The police have said that, upon inspection of Henry’s body, a single stab wound was seen on the left side abdomen, thus resulting in his intestines protruding.

The suspect has since been arrested, and has confessed to the crime by claiming that he was offended by the victim’s racist comments. Investigations are continuing.

observed two men in separate boats acting suspiciously. Upon seeing the police, the two men reportedly jumped out of their boats, ran into a yard, and escaped in the thick vegetation behind a wooden structure along the East Bank of the Berbice River.

However, a search was conducted in and around the house during which a quantity of cannabis, two 12-gauge

shotguns with their serial numbers filed off, one 40HP Yamaha Outboard Engine, a 2HP Yamaha Outboard Engine, one Samsung cellphone, and several pieces of camouflage clothing were discovered.

The items were confiscated and taken to the Mackenzie Police Station where they were lodged as evidence. Investigation into the incident is underway.

The dried ganja found at the scene

The two boats in which the men were seen

The 40HP outboard engine

The two 12-gauge shotguns

The house that was searched

aurex Henry, a 27-year-old miner of Imbaimadai, Region Seven, was in the wee hours of Friday stabbed to death at the Kamarang Landing, Upper Mazaruni, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

ceived, Henry had left a bar

Dead: Laurex Henry

AG appeals $2M judgment to Roxanne Myers for unlawful arrest

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has on Friday been ordered to pay former Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO) Roxanne Myers the sum of $2 million for unlawful arrest committed during a probe into elections fraud.

This ruling was handed down by Justice Simone MorrisRamlall in the Demerara High Court, and it has also been ordered that the GPF pay $200,000 in court costs on or before September 9, 2024.

During her ruling, Justice Morris-Ramlall said the court did not find that Myers had been inhumanely treated during her detention, but awarded $2 million in compensatory damages.

The GPF was represented by the Attorney General’s Chambers, while Myers was represented by Attorney at Law Nigel Hughes.

Following the ruling on

Friday, Attorney General Anil Nandlall filed an appeal on several grounds, including that the judge had erred in finding that there was no reasonable basis to arrest and detain Myers.

The AG Chambers has also stated that the judge erred in finding that the evidence before her did not reveal any basis for the arrest and detention of Myers, and is contending that the judge had effectively disregarded critical evidence of the witness Assistant Police Superintendent Ceaser when he testified about the reason for the arrest and detention of Myers.

Further, the AG Chambers is contending that Justice Ramlall erred when she concluded that Myers’s refusal to cooperate with the police could not be seen as preventing the course of justice; but, more importantly, the AG Chambers has said that the judge erred

when she ruled that Myers's refusal to answer questions about GECOM’s Statements of Polls for the March 2020 election could not be seen as preventing the course of justice.

Accordingly, the AG is requesting an order setting aside the ruling of Justice Ramlall.

RECAP

Myers was arrested in October 2022 after she surrendered herself at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters moments before the Police Force was able to issue a ‘Wanted’ bulletin for her arrest.

Lawyers representing Myers contended that she had been arrested for “perverting the course of justice”, but the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has contended that she had been detained for “conspiracy to defraud”.

The GPF reported that its ranks had been trying for over a month to question DCEO Myers in regard to electoral fraud committed at the March 2, 2020 polls. “However, those efforts were futile, as Ms. Myers made every effort to elude the Police investigators,” the GPF had said in explaining that a ‘Wanted’ bulletin had consequently been prepared, but before it was released, Myers had shown up at CID Headquarters in the company of her attorneys.

According to the GPF, “Ms. Myers was promptly arrested for the offence of ‘conspiracy to defraud’, and she was told of the allegation at the said time. She then exercised her right to remain silent.”

Myers is among nine persons before the court charged with electoral fraud. The others are former Returning Officer for Region Four, Clairmont

Mingo; former Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield; former People’s National Congress/Reform Chairperson Volda Lawrence; PNCR activist Carol Smith-Joseph; and GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Michelle Miller and Denise Babb-Cummings. They are facing 28 charges relating to electoral fraud. Among the offences these defendants are accused of committing are: misconduct while holding public

office; presenting falsified documentation; and planning to manipulate Guyana’s voters by presenting an inaccurate vote total.

Meanwhile, with only three hearings completed, the 2020 elections fraud trial, which was slated to continue on August 5, has been deferred until September, as presiding Magistrate Leron Daly has been placed on 30 days’ sick leave.

Former GECOM DCEO, Roxanne Myers

Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall

55 women among 186 new GDF recruits

ODuty, Discipline, Identity, Integrity, and Loyalty. He also stressed that these principles are essential to professional conduct in the military. He also applauded the achievements of female recruits, noting that a female soldier ranked as the runner-up, showcasing the growing potential of women in the GDF.

GBTI launches HomeStart...

ne hundred and eighty-six recruits, including 55 women, have officially joined the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) after completing the Basic Recruit Specialisation Course 2024-01 (BRSC 202401). The course culminated in a formal parade at the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School (CUPOCS) Drill Square, Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri.

Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, in his address to the new recruits, praised their commitment to serve and emphasised the significance

of their induction. “Today is a pivotal moment for you and the entire GDF. The integration of new soldiers is crucial for any military. You have chosen a noble path, and I commend you for it,” he said as he highlighted the importance of adhering to the GDF’s core Values and Standards—

The BRSC 2024-01 cohort was the first to complete a revised training programme combining military orientation with specialisation over 15 weeks. The curriculum includes foot and arm drills, field craft, map reading and navigation, open and close country warfare, internal security, and specialised training in infantry, seaman ship, engineering, radio operations, music, and professional administration.

Several recruits were recognised for exceptional performances during the course. Private Kester Jeffery was honored as the Best Graduating Student, while Private Devalyn Elliman was named Runner-up and received the Best Military Knowledge award. Other awardees included Private Marvin Williams (Best Fitness), Private Leeram Elliman (Best Shot), and Private Carlon Grant (Best Drill).

The Chief of Defence Staff, along with GDF Officers and Ranks, extend their congratulations to the new recruits and welcome them to the army.

“Many times, people don’t have that down payment when it’s required, and this facility will give them the opportunity, from the moment they apply for a house lot, to start saving. It’s a deposit-only facility, so it helps you to be disciplined in saving for your house lot. Some people have a lot of problems with that discipline, so this is an opportunity for them to get assistance in saving and also planning. When they see that money in the bank growing, it will motivate them to save even more because when they get that house lot, it will help them to pay for it.”

Deeper significance

Meanwhile, GBTI’s Chief Commercial Officer, Rawattie Mohandeo, spoke about the deeper significance of homeownership, describing it as more than just a financial goal. “Homeownership represents stability, security, and the foundation for building a future filled with memories. This is why we’ve introduced the HomeStart Advantage Savings Account,” she said.

Mohandeo highlighted the numerous benefits of setting up the account from the moment a customer applies for a house lot.

“We have designed this account with a deposit-only feature to encourage consistent saving, ensuring that our customers are well-pre-

pared when the time comes to make their dream home a reality. The HomeStart Advantage Savings Account is more than just a savings account; it is a strategic financial tool tailored to meet the unique needs of prospective homeowners.”

She added that the account is designed to help customers grow their savings efficiently, offering features such as no monthly fees, automatic savings plans, and cash back rewards when customers reach their savings goals.

Key benefits of the HomeStart Advantage Savings Account include a 100 per cent discount on the mortgage application fee, a 25 per cent discount on the negotiation fee, and 5 per cent cash back on the HomeStart Advantage account funds, with the maximum cash back being $100,000, credited after the first disbursal stage is completed. The account also offers personalised financial guidance from GBTI’s team of homeownership experts, ensuring customers have the support they need to navigate the complex home-buying process with confidence. (G2)

Some of the new recruits (GDF photo)

“You are the change for your community” – Region 2 Chair to ICT graduates

Thirty-two participants from across the country graduated from a two-week Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Training programme on Friday in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The training, implemented under the ICT Access and E-Services for Hinterland, Poor, and Remote Communities Project, is an initiative of the Office of the Prime Minister aimed at empowering remote communities with essential ICT skills.

The graduation ceremony, held at the Anna Regina Regional Democratic Council's (RDC) Boardroom, Anna Regina, Region Two.

During the ceremony, graduands engaged in practical demonstration where the they showcased their newly acquired skills, such as crimping wires for cable installations and disassembling and reassembling computers.

Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva, who addressed the graduates, emphasised the

importance of the training for the sustainable development of hinterland communities. She noted that the programme is vital for human resource development, which is foundational to the nation’s progress.

"Our country is on the move, and seeing so many young people equipped with the skills to serve their villages makes me proud. This is about lifting the hinterland out of poverty, and we must thank our dynamic president for pushing the development of these communities. Access to internet service is a life-changing move," De Silva stated.

She encouraged the graduates to utilise their skills meaningfully, urging them to seize opportunities for personal and communal growth.

"You are the change for your community. Encourage others to stay in school and acquire skills because Guyana is developing rapidly, and we need people with these abilities," she added.

Director of the Guyana Online Academy of Learning

(GOAL), Professor Jacob Opadeyi, also engaged with the trainees, discussing the motivations behind their participation in the programme. While some aimed to enhance their personal knowledge, others were driven by a desire to contribute to their communities. Professor Opadeyi highlighted the dual importance of the training, stating, "This training is for you and your community. If you can’t enhance your own knowledge, how will you help your community?"

He further encouraged the graduates to explore opportunities through the GOAL scholarship to continue advancing their knowledge and skills. "These opportunities will not only assist you in the future but also pave the way for you to open your own businesses and become your own boss," he said.

Representing the Amerindian Affairs Ministry, Eliza Bacome praised the initiative for its transformative impact on hinterland commu-

nities. Bacome stressed that the programme is more than just about learning to install hardware; it is about empowering youth with high-level ICT skills that will drive their communities forward.

"We are thrilled to see the government's commitment to ICT access. This programme is not just about hardware installation; it’s about empower-

ing our youth with high-level ICT skills that will propel their communities forward," she remarked.

Drawing from her personal experience, Bacome shared her struggles with technology, recounting how she faced significant challenges when she first enrolled at the University of the Southern Caribbean a decade ago due to the lack of

proper ICT courses. Despite these obstacles, she managed to complete her degree in six years, largely teaching herself ICT skills through available resources.

"When I first arrived in Georgetown, I didn’t know how to use a computer or navigate the various software programmes. Most of my courses were online, and I had to teach myself ICT skills through available resources. Despite these challenges, I was able to complete my degree in six years...Back in those days, technology was a barrier. Today, thanks to the government’s efforts, such struggles can be eliminated. I encourage the newly graduated trainees to share their knowledge and utilise online programmes to further their studies and improve their communities," Bacome shared.

The graduates awarded certificates of completion and also provided with PC and network kits to help them apply their newfound skills in their respective villages. (G14)

Some of the persons who graduated from the ICT training programme on Friday

New housing areas identified – Croal on increased demand for housing

The Housing and Water Ministry has identified several areas where housing projects will be executed. This was revealed by Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal on Thursday night during the opening ceremony of this years International Building Expo.

The minister noted that the demand for housing in the country has significantly increased, as such he explained that the ministry in an effort to keep up with the increased demand has identified sever

al areas across the country where construction works will begin.

“The demand for affordable housing continues to grow. We cannot develop housing areas fast enough. To cope, we have identified new areas for this year, for example, in Region One [BarimaWaini]; Marlborough, Region Three [Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara], Wales, in Region Four [DemeraraMahaica], LBI, Felicity, Chateau Margot, Hauruni on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, Nonpareil, Enterprise and Silica City, Region Five [MahaicaBerbice], Waterloo, Region Six [East Berbice-Corentyne], Molson Creek and Palmyra, Bartica, Region Seven [Cuyuni-Mazaruni], Mahdia in Region Eight [PotaroSiparuni], and Plantations Hope and Europe in Region 10 [Upper Demerara-Berbice] will see commencement of actual building” the minister

stated.

Moreover, the minister reaffirmed the governments commitment of providing a total of 50,000 house lots within

the end of the year. Similarly, within the next two days of the expo over 1500 house lots and certificates of titles will be distributed.

In fact, we will be allocating over 2,000 lots over the next two days and issuing 1,730 certificates of titles, signaling the finalisation of ownership in new areas such as La Reconnaissance, Cummings Lodge, Great Diamond, Golden Grove. We have achieved over 34,000 house lots in four years, The target of allocating 50,000 house lots over five years did not include in our manifesto a commitment to complete houses, but where there is a will, there is a way, and so far we have allocated in excess of 1,700 houses, of which over 1,500 are in various stages of completion. I have been assured by my team that before the year is

a five-year period, as such he revealed that a total of 40,000 house lots will be allocated by

“By the end of this year, 2024, more than 40,000 house lots will be allocated.

finished, we will be building another 600 of these houses” he stated.

Also speaking at the expo, Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, who explained that the expo is a platform where business showcase their latest innovations among other ideas, as such she remained adamant that Building Expo 2024 will set the stage for innovation and collaboration among businesses.

“International building expo has earned a reputation as a premiere platform for entrepreneurs to launch a new business, expand and showcase new businesses and offers unmatched opportunities to network among industries and professionals. We are confident that building expo 2024 will provide an invaluable platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration. It is an opportunity for us to learn from each other, inspire new ideas, and forge partnerships,” she said.

Meanwhile the

International Building Expo 2024 promises to be a showcase of cutting-edge designs and construction practices.

With participation from industry leaders and local institutions, the event is set to highlight the latest trends in building materials, techniques, and technologies, along with benefits available to new and existing home owners from financial institutions.

The expo which has become a household name in the country sees approximately 30 companies from Canada, the United States, India, and Indonesia, among other foreign countries participating. Guyanese companies are showcasing their dominance at the expo as over 400 locals are present. These companies will highlight sustainable and environmental concepts aimed at improving home ownership.

Govt working to ensure normal lives for children with type 1 diabetes

The Health Ministry has increased efforts to ensure that children who are living with Type 1 diabetes will be able to live normal lives.

This is according to Director, NonCommunicable Diseases, Dr. Lachmie Lall, who revealed that the government is committed towards ensuring children who live with the disease live normal lives.

She was at the time delivering remarks at the second annual Farm Day activity for youngsters from across Guyana, who are living with Type 1 diabetes.

The group of young people on Friday gathered

at the Guyana School of Agriculture for the Health Ministry’s Chronic Disease Unit and the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA).

“We want you to know that just because you’re diagnosed with type 1 diabetes life doesn’t just have to be about taking insulin and watching what you eat. You can also have some fun. The ministry of health is dedicated to ensuring that that happens, that our type 1 children have full access to education and full access to all of the medication and the needs that they need to have,” the director stated.

The director also noted that the Farm Day activity

serves as a reinforcement of information that might have been forgotten.

“Today is an opportunity to reinforce education on how and when to take your insulin and when to test during the day, as we know that much of this information is sometimes forgotten or lost in the hectic schedules of parents,” she said.

Also speaking at the event was head of the Guyana Diabetic Association (GDA), Glynis Beaton, who has been a diabetic for 37 years. Beaton explained that whilst living with diabetes might not be easy, children will have to learn how to cope with the struggles of the disease.

“Living with diabetes is not easy, there are going to be days, when your children will be fed-up with diabetes, those days happen, I lived some of those days. I just said I lived 37 years with diabetes for those who are five and six you have more years to live with it and you have to learn to live with it” she explained.

Additionally, she revealed that in an effort to better support children living with the disease, talks are currently underway with a private medical institution

to provide testing for them.

“The Guyana Diabetic Association supports children living with type 1 and so we are now in negotiation with a Diamond hospital, private where all the children can visit and get their full checkup and everything done” she stated.

Additionally Chief Medical Officer (ag), Dr. Jeetendra Mohanlall, warned parents about the inappropriate use of antibiotics to treat diabetes.

“Having diabetes, you’re prone to different infections, and as such, parents, I would like to caution you not to experiment with antibiotics because if misused, they can lead to resistance,” he stated.

Dr. Mohanlall encour-

aged parents to utilise the Government of Guyana’s eye testing and spectacles vouchers to get their children’s eyes tested early as diabetes can lead to a series of eye ailments.

He stressed that early screening will not only offer correction to refractive errors but also will aid in detecting eye diseases and other ailments.

The event, which took place at the GSA’s Auditorium in Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, had approximately 150 participants from various regions across Guyana engaging in tours at both the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) and the National Agricultural Research and

Extension Institute (NAREI). The Ministry also used the occasion to raise awareness, provide education on managing Type 1 diabetes, and distribute vouchers for the eye testing programme.

Type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition. In this condition, the pancreas makes little or no insulin. Even after a lot of research, type 1 diabetes has no cure. Treatment is directed toward managing the amount of sugar in the blood using insulin, diet and lifestyle to prevent complications. The Farm Day aligns with the Ministry’s goal of encouraging persons to live a healthier lifestyle.

Head of The Guyana Diabetic Association (GDA) Glynis Beaton

Director, Non-Communicable Diseases, Dr. Lachmie Lall, speaking at the event on Friday

-

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal

Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues

A section of the gathering at the International Building Expo

Plane crash in Brazil's São Paulo state kills all 62 on board

Aplane has crashed in the Brazilian state of São Paulo, killing all 62 people on board.

The twin-engine turboprop plane was flying from Cascavel in the southern state of Paraná to the main airport in São Paulo city when it came down in the town of Vinhedo, the Voepass airline said.

Footage circulating on social media showed a plane descending vertically, spiralling as it fell.

The plane was carry-

ing 58 passengers and four crew. Local authorities said there were no survivors.

Authorities said the plane landed in a residential area, but no-one on the ground was injured.

They said only one home in the local condominium complex had been damaged, while none of the residents were hurt.

Brazil's GloboNews television network showed pictures of a large area on fire and smoking wreckage in an area full of houses.

Police and fire services are at the scene and local hospitals have been alerted.

According to tracking website Flightradar24, the plane was built in 2010 and left Cascavel at 11:56 local time (14:56 GMT). The last signal received from the aircraft was about an hour and a half later.

Brazil's president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, paid tribute to the victims at an event he was speaking at.

“I have to be the bearer of very bad news and I would like everyone to stand up so that we can have a minute of silence," he told his audience.

He posted on social media the news of the crash was “Very sad. All my solidarity to the families and friends of the victims.”

The governor of São Paulo state, Tarcísio de Freitas, is heading to the scene, while the state government said it was sending emergency teams to the area. (Reuters)

Panama offers safe passage to Venezuela's Maduro to allow for transition

Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino told broadcaster CNN on Friday he would give Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro safe passage to act as a "bridge" to a third country in order to allow for a political transition in Venezuela.

Maduro has claimed victory in his reelection bid late last month, but the political opposition in the South American nation has done the same while the electoral authority has yet to release detailed vote tallies.

"If that's the contribution, the sacrifice that Panama has to make, by offering our soil so that this man and his family can leave Venezuela, Panama would do it without a doubt,"

Missing

Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino speaking during his first press conference, in Panama City, Panama July 18, 2024 (Reuters/ Enea Lebrun)

Mulino said in an interview. Panama is part of a group of Latin American countries that have cut diplomatic ties with Venezuela since

pilot's remains found in Bahamas wreckage

Eyewitness News Bahamas reports that the body of pilot of a single engine plane that took off from the Roseland Municipal Airport in Sebastian last Sunday morning has been found amongst the wreckage of his plane about five miles away from the Marsh Harbour Airport on Abaco Island in the Bahamas.

The pilot has been identified as 59-year-old Chris Moore of Louisville Kentucky. He was the only occupant of the two-seater BRM Aero Bristell aircraft.

Moore's last known location was over Bahamian waters just north of the island of Grand Bahama. He was headed to the Marsh Harbor Airport. When he failed to arrive on time, the U.S. Coast Guard notified Bahamian Authorities and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force launched a search effort which was called off Monday night. It's not clear when Moore's body was found, or who found his remains. However the Eyewitness News Bahamas report states that a woman believed to be Moore's wife confirmed her husband's death on Facebook, and expressed gratitude that the wreckage was eventually found by a rescue team. (Eyewitness News Bahamas)

Driver jailed for death of Ecuador politician's daughter

Aspeeding Mercedes driver has been jailed for 10 years for causing the death of an Ecuadorian politician's daughter in London.

Psychologist Vanessa Sagnay de la Bastida was crossing the road holding hands with her fiancé Michael Williams as they walked home near Wandsworth Bridge, in west London, on 16 March 2022.

Octavian Cadar, 39, drove towards them at about 55mph, more than double the 20mph speed limit, causing the terrified couple to become separated as they fled.

Ms Sagnay, 27, who was known as Charlotte, was hit before she reached the pavement, causing her to somersault in the air and land on a railing and sign post.

She suffered a catastrophic head injury and died at the scene.

Cadar, of Bexley, southeast London, had accused the couple of causing the collision by "messing about in the road", only admit-

ting later to jurors that was wrong.

He also claimed he was trying to avoid them but the court was told the accident would not have happened if he had been driving at 30mph.

A jury deliberated for 42 minutes to find him guilty of causing Ms Sagnay's death by dangerous driving.

Cadar was jailed for 10 years and disqualified from driving for 10 years and eight months.

In 2018, he had been convicted of speeding, fined, and given six penalty points at Bromley Magistrates' Court.

Speaking at his sentencing, Mr Williams, who was studying for a PhD at University College London, said: "No-one should have the power to kill just to drive fast.

"Cadar valued speeding in a sports car more than our lives. Afterwards he reacted with anger and blame.

the disputed July 28 election, including Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Peru, and Uruguay. (Reuters)

Fire brigades in the Brazilian Amazon are battling blazes off to their worst start in 20 years for the rainforest, according to government satellite data, following a record-breaking drought aggravated by global warming.

Smoke blanketed the horizon along the Transamazonian Highway outside the town of Apui on Friday, in the south of Brazil's Amazonas state, where firefighters have gathered from up to 600 km away (350 miles) to combat the unusually early and intense fires this year.

Firefighters in bright yellow protective clothing

Police make largest cocaine bust in Jamaica’s history

Jamaica’s police are reporting the largest cocaine bust in the country’s history, following the seizure of over 5,500 kilogrammes of cocaine with a street value of US$76 million, earlier this week.

Five men—including a Colombian national, an accountant, as well as a deportee—are among those in custody in connection with the seizure.

The arrests and seizure were made during an anti-narcotics operation by a team of police officers from the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division

(FNID) in the Corporate Area.

It is reported that FNID officers, with support from the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch, raided a premises, resulting in the arrest of the men and the seizure of a number of knitted bags containing cocaine.

Superintendent Sam Blake, head of the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division, said the operation has put a dent into a drug trafficking network. —KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC)

On his fiancée, he said:

"My life with Charlotte was wonderful, she was the best friend I ever had.

"She had the magical ability to support people in just the way they needed." (BBC)

"What was my worst nightmare is now my reality. At least in my nightmares I am with Charlotte again."

Brazil fire brigades fight Amazon blazes off to torrid start in

2024

worked through the night to smother the flames using back-mounted water sprayers or leaf blowers as enormous blazes advanced over forests and pastures alike, leaving a vast charred expanse in their wake.

The fires threatening the rainforest may pose a tough test for President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who has staked his global reputation on Brazil's environmental stewardship ahead of hosting the United Nations COP30 climate summit next year.

Fires ringing Apui and other towns across the Amazon often start on

ranches where locals are converting the jungle into pasture. Extremely dry conditions over the past year have made it easier for blazes to advance into the rainforest, which rarely burns under normal conditions.

"The way the climate is changing, getting drier and hotter, year after year we're seeing the fire entering deeper into the virgin forest," said Domingos da Silva Araujo, local head of the government's Prevfogo brigade fighting wildfires around Apui. The area is a tinder box after more than a month without a drop of rain, he said.

(Excerpted from Reuters)

A Voepass ATR-72 plane similar to the one that crashed (file picture)

Vanessa Sagnay de la Bastida

Members of Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) fire brigade work to extinguish a fire rising in Amazon rainforest in Apui, Amazonas state, Brazil, August 8, 2024 (Reuters/Adriano Machado Purchase Licensing Rights)

cattle

Around the World OIL NEWS

Russia struggles to repel Ukraine's deep Kursk incursion

Oil posts 3% weekly gains on positive economic data, rate-cut hopes

Oil prices settled higher on Friday and notched over 3.5% in weekly gains as positive economic data and signals from Fed policymakers that they could cut interest rates as early as September eased demand concerns, while fears of a widening Middle East conflict continue to raise supply risks.

Brent crude futures settled 50 cents up, or 0.6%, at $79.66 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose 65 cents, or 0.9%, to $76.84. both benchmarks.

Brent gained more than 3.5% in the week, while WTI rose more than 4%.

"Crude is in a recovery mode ... as geopolitical tensions still seem to be a positive factor, and on-again off-again recession fears have calmed a bit, at least for now," said Dennis Kissler, senior vice president of trading at BOK Financial.

A trio of Federal Reserve policymakers indicated on Thursday that they were more confident that inflation is cooling enough to cut rates. A bigger-than-expected fall in U.S. jobless claims data also helped to underpin the recovery. (Reuters)

US, Qatar and Egypt call on Israel and Hamas to resume urgent ceasefire talks

The leaders of the US, Egypt and Qatar have called on Israel and Hamas to resume urgent negotiations to finalise a ceasefire and hostage release deal, saying there were no excuses “from any party for further delay”.

The three countries, which have been trying to mediate a deal, said in a joint statement the talks could take place in either Doha or Cairo on 15 August, adding that it was “time to bring immediate relief both to the longsuffering people of Gaza as well as the longsuffering hostages and their families”.

The leaders said a “framework agreement is now on the table with only the details of implementation left to conclude”, and offered to present “a final bridging proposal” resolving the remaining issues, such as the length of the first stage of a ceasefire and how and where Israeli troops would withdraw.

Moments after the release of the joint statement, Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, said Israeli negotiators would be there. The aim, he said, was “to finalise the details and implement the framework

agreement”. Netanyahu’s administration has been accused of repeatedly sabotaging ceasefire talks.

There was no immediate comment from Hamas. The announcement of the talks came after Hamas named Yahya Sinwar – the alleged mastermind of the 7 October attack – as its new leader, sparking fears that negotiations have become even more difficult. Sinwar was appointed after the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in Iran last month. The UK foreign secretary, David Lammy, joined the international calls for talks to resume, saying on Friday: “There can be no more delays, the fighting must stop now … all hostages still cruelly detained by Hamas must be released. We also need to see the urgent delivery of unfettered aid into Gaza.”

The flurry of diplomacy came at the same time as an increase in Israeli bombings on the Gaza Strip on Thursday, including strikes on a street in Bureij and Nuseirat camps as well as Gaza City and the southern city of Khan Younis that killed 60 people, medics said.

(The Guardian)

Russia's military has said it is "continuing to repel" a Ukrainian cross-border incursion into the western Kursk regiona surprise attack now in its fourth day.

The Russian defence ministry said Ukraine lost more than 280 military personnel in the past 24 hours - a claim that has not been independently verified.

Reports suggest that Ukrainian troops are operating more than 10km (six miles) inside Russia - the deepest cross-border advance by Kyiv since Moscow launched a fullscale invasion in February 2022.

Ukraine has not openly admitted the incursion, but President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that Moscow must "feel"

the consequences for its invasion.

Meanwhile, at least 14 people have been killed and 43 injured in a Russian strike on a shopping centre in the Ukrainian town of Kostyantynivka, close to the frontline in the eastern Donetsk region, Ukrainian officials say.

Residential buildings, shops and more than a dozen cars were also damaged in the attack.

News of the strike came hours after Ukraine's military said it had hit a military airfield deep inside Russia overnight, destroying a warehouse containing hundreds of glide bombs.

The targeting of the Lipetsk air base, more than 350km (217 miles) from Ukraine's border, is the kind of operation Kyiv has been wanting to do for some time.

These are the very tools that Russia has continually terrorised Ukrainian towns, cities and military positions with for most of its invasion.

The military's statement also said the airfield was known for housing Russia's Su-34, Su-35 and MiG-31 war planes.

Lipetsk's regional authorities said a state of emergency was now in place in the area, confirming the detonations at an "energy infrastructure facility". Residents of four nearby villages were being evacuated. (BBC)

Bangladesh's Hasina did not resign before fleeing to Delhi, says son and adviser

Long-time

Bangladeshi leader Sheikh Hasina had not resigned as prime minister before fleeing this week to India as anti-government protesters marched on her official residence, her son and adviser told Reuters early on Saturday.

Hasina has been sheltering in New Delhi since Monday following an uprising that killed about 300 people, many of them students, ending her uninterrupted rule of 15 years in the country of 170 million people. "My mother never officially resigned. She didn't get the time," Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed told Reuters from Washington.

"She had planned to make a statement and submit her resignation. But then the protesters started marching on the prime minister's residence. And there was no time. My mother wasn't even packed. As far as the constitution goes, she is still the prime minister of Bangladesh."

He said though the president had dissolved parliament after consulting with military chiefs and opposition politicians, the formation of a caretaker government without the prime minister actually formally resigning "can be challenged in court".

Wazed also said Hasina's Awami League party would contest the next election, which he said

months.

"I'm confident the Awami League will come to power. If not, we will be the opposition. Either way is fine," he said. He said he was encour-

US Capitol rioter sentenced to 20 years – one of the longest punishments yet

ACalifornia man with a history of political violence was sentenced on Friday to 20 years in prison for repeatedly attacking police with flagpoles and other makeshift weapons during the US Capitol riot on 6 January 2021.

David Nicholas Dempsey’s sentence is among the longest among hundreds of Capitol riot prosecutions. Prosecutors described him as one of the most violent members of the mob of Donald Trump supporters that attacked the Capitol as lawmakers met to certify Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential election victory. Dempsey, who is from Van Nuys, stomped on police officers’ heads. He swung

poles at officers defending a tunnel, struck an officer in the head with a metal crutch and attacked police with pepper spray and broken pieces of furniture, prosecutors said.

He climbed atop other ri-

oters, using them like “human scaffolding” to reach officers guarding a tunnel entrance. He injured at least two police officers, prosecutors said.

“Your conduct on January 6 was exception-

ally egregious,” the US district judge Royce Lamberth told Dempsey. “You did not get carried away in the moment.”

Dempsey pleaded guilty in January to two counts of assaulting police officers with a dangerous weapon.

Only the former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio has received a longer sentence in the January 6 attack. Tarrio was sentenced to 22 years for orchestrating a plot to stop the peaceful transfer of power from Trump to Biden after the 2020 election.

Dempsey called his conduct “reprehensible” and apologized to the police officers whom he assaulted.

(The Guardian)

A burning house in the town of Sudzha, Kursk region

must be held within three

aged by a recent statement from Khaleda Zia, chief of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and a Hasina foe, that there should be no revenge or vengeance after Hasina fled. (Reuters)

Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina

Protesters stormed into the US Capitol in Washington DC on 6 January 2021 (Photograph: Shannon Stapleton/Reuters)

SUDOKU

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

Expand your interests, knowledge and friendships. Communication will help you drum up support. Establishing connections will reinforce your confidence and encourage you to move forward.

Sign up for whatever interests you. You’ll be a magnet for valuable information. Refuse to let insecurity stop you. Don’t be afraid to change things up.

Make updates without hesitation. Don’t wait for things to come to you. Do your due diligence and implement change that will help you achieve your goals.

Recognize your talents to ensure you use them to gain the most and spotlight your achievements. Don’t wait for your competition to outmaneuver you or to acknowledge your successes.

(June 21-July 22) (July 23-Aug. 22)

Surround yourself with experts, pay attention and learn. Mastering practical skills and acquiring valuable knowledge will contribute to your success. Become a leader, and you’ll gain momentum.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23) (May 21-June 20) (April 20-May 20)

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Refuse to let what others do or say upset you. Stick to what you know and do best, and alter what’s necessary. Being efficient, spontaneous and fearless will help you stand out. Do your thing.

Put one foot in front of the other and keep your eye on your target. Patience and attention to detail will help you get to the finish line. Trust your judgment.

Think your situation through and work to make your objective a reality. Be aware of your surroundings and execute your every move with grace and dignity. Romance is favored.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Retreat and observe. What others reveal will indicate how you should move forward. Refuse to take information at face value. Avoid joint ventures. Move forward alone or not at all.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Relax and rejuvenate. Refrain from making monetary, medical or legal changes. Distance yourself from stress and anxiety, and take time to let your mind wander.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Emotions will flare up if you take on too much or let negative people get in your way. Stick close to home and the people who encourage you to be yourself. Be grateful for what you’ve got.

Meditate, concentrate and determine who you want to be and what you want to achieve. Personal growth and adapting your circumstances and surroundings will be liberating.

Banks DIH pledges continuous support for Guyana Cup

The 16th running of the Guyana Cup, organized by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee (JJTRC), will again be fuelled by the beverage giants of Guyana, long-time sponsors Banks DIH Limited.

This grand equine showdown is set for Sunday August 11 at the Rising Sun Turf Club, where fans would be treated to 10 high-octane races and there would be over 40 million dollars in cash and prizes on offer.

Banks DIH Special Events Manager Mortimer George, speaking at the recent Guyana Cup press conference and drawing, pledged that company’s continuous support for this family-oriented horse-racing event.

“We at Banks DIH, we are thrilled to be a sponsor of the 16th running of the Guyana Cup, the biggest horse race event of the year,” George said. “It’s an honour to support an event that brings such talented competitors and supreme horses, and also passionate fans.”

The well-established beverage company strongly believes in dedication, perseverance and excellence, and those qualities have actually

been trademarks of the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee.

“Banks DIH has always believed in the value of dedication, perseverance and excellence, which are values in sports,” George has said.

“The Guyana Cup is a wonderful opportunity to engage with the community, (and) we are proud to be part of an event that not only entertains, but brings people together and support local businesses.

“Once again, we are delighted to be part of this event,

and we will continue to support this initiative throughout,” George has promised.

The Rising Sun Turf Club will be transformed into an electrifying atmosphere for the entire family. Children will be treated to a fun park, and fans will be thrilled to have great vibes when the DJ competition takes centre stage after the races.

Racing is expected to start at 11:50h, and close to 100 horses have had their entries confirmed for the grand oneday horse racing event.

Three under-17 cricketers who represented Berbice in the recently concluded inter-county tournament organised by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) have received their cricket gear, sourced by Derrick Kallicharran, Raj Rai, Kumar Dindyal, and members of the Kaieteur Cricket Club of Canada.

Berbice captain and national vice-captain Afraz Budhoo, and standby player Micah Amsterdam received a pair of metal spikes cricket shoes, while Guyana selectee Romario Ramdehol also benefitted from receipt of a floppy hat. Budhoo is a left- handed batsman who bowls right arm off spin, and is a member of the Albion Cricket Club. Rightarm fast bowler Amsterdam is from Tucber Park Cricket Club, while Ramdehol, a product of the Rose Hall Town Community Center CC, is a right arm batsman and off spinner.

Guyana will participate in the upcoming regional tournament to be held in Trinidad and Tobago shortly. The gear was donated by Derrick Kallicharran, Raj Rai, Kumar Dindyal, and members of the Kaieteur Cricket Club of Canada after representation was made to this joint initiative between Kishan Das of the USA and Anil Beharry by coach Leslie Solomon. The tokens were presented by Marvin Abbensettes, who represented the sponsors and encouraged

the players to remain disciplined and focused. This noble project then reached out to Kallicharran, a former West Indies “B” cricketer, who along with his friends responded immediately. This project thanked the donors for their continued support, “so that we can assist young people and develop cricket, especially through youths”.

Total cricket related items received/purchased so far: $460,000 in cash, thirteen coloured cricket uniforms, two trophies, twenty-seven pairs of cricket shoes, thirty-three pairs of batting pads, thirty-five cricket bats, one floppy hat, thirty- one pairs of batting gloves, twenty-five thigh pads, three pairs of wicketkeeping pads, six arm guards, two chest

pads, two boxes, twelve cricket bags, six bat rubbers, six helmets, one fiber glass bat, thirteen boxes of white cricket balls, three boxes of red balls, and twenty-eight footballs.

In addition to the above, gear worth more than $600,000 was donated by Sheik Mohamed, former national wicketkeeper/ batsman. All cash collected is being used to purchase cricket gear requested and not available at the time.

To date, eighty young players, male and female from all three counties of Guyana, have benefited directly from seven gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, thirty-three bats, three boxes, six helmets, thirty- one pairs of cricket shoes, twenty pairs of batting pads,

Thrilling quarter-finals on the cards at Enmore on Sunday

From an initial lineup of 32 teams, only eight remain in contention, and four more would be eliminated on Sunday when the eagerly awaited quarter-finals of the second Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast gets underway at the Enmore Community Centre Ground, ECD.

Event Coordinator John Ramsingh told the media on Friday that all systems are in place for a prompt start at 09:30h on Sunday. Several national players and former West Indies players would be in action as teams hunt a spot in the finals, to be played on August 24 at the National Stadium at Providence, EBD.

According to Ramsingh, each of the four winners would pocket $100,000 while each loser will get $30,000, for a total payout of $520,000, sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

He elaborated that, at minimum, each of these eight teams would regain their entrance fee of $25,000, while the winner would receive an early bonus.

Each of the losing semi-finalists on August 24 would take home $250,000, compliments of Premier Insurance.

Second-place – $500,000 from SuperBet Guyana, and the winner pockets $1.5M from Star Rentals.

More so, players will vie for the titles of: Most Runs,

Most Wickets, and Player of the Final. Each winner would receive a smart TV and $75,000 cash prize, compliments of Regal Stationery and Computer Centre. Assuria Insurance will present a motorbike, and $85,000 will go to the Most Valuable Player.

Additionally, $100,000 will be split equally between the Kawasaki Super Striker of the tournament (player with the highest strike rate — minimum of 12 balls) and the Most Economical bowler (lowest economy rate — minimum of 24 balls).

It will bring to over G$3.4M the money being distributed in cash prizes.

The quarter-final matches are: Team Corruption vs Montra Jaguars at 09:30h; Tarmac Titans vs Mahdia at 11:30h; Titans All-Stars vs

The Guards at 13:30h, and Brooklyn Youth Strikers vs Diamond Gunners at 15:30h. The Kares One Guyana T10 Blast also enjoys the support of Kares Engineering, Banks DIH Limited, Montra Restaurant and Lounge, Demerara Mutual, ETS, Metro Office and Computer Supplies, Jacobs’ Jewellery, Digital Technology, First Change Builders Inc, KFC Guyana, Hoosein’s Security Services, NEW GPC Inc., Building Expo 2024, Giftland OfficeMax, Sankar’s Auto Works, ENet, Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc., Trophy Stall, ANSA McAL Distribution, Camille’s Academy, R. Kissoon Contracting Service, Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, RS53 RestoBar and Lounge, Samaroo Investments, and Coel’s Boutique.

National U17 cricketers benefit from cricket gear initiative

twenty-four thigh pads, one bat grip, thirty-three pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicketkeeping pads, and three pairs of wicketkeeping gloves.

Many others benefited indirectly. In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area benefited from two used bats. Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenaam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard have also each received one box of red cricket balls, Cold Fusion Cricket Club received thirteen coloured uniforms, while RHCCCC received six boxes of balls, fifteen white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicketkeeping gloves, a set of stumps and bails.

Other beneficiaries are: The Essequibo Cricket Board, the Town of Lethem, youth coach Travis Persaud (one box of red cricket balls), male and female teams playing the traditional hardball and softball in the Upper Corentyne area, No.65 Young Titans with 30 T-Shirts, youths of Just Try Cricket Club, Wakenaam Cricket Academy (one box of white balls), Shamar Joseph, Nehemiah Hohenkirk, Shamar Apple, Leguan Cricket Committee, Tucber Park Cricket Club, and Malteenoes Sports Club (nine cricket balls each).

Cricket related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting

is being done across the country, and club leaders also assist to identify same. Progressive and well managed cricket clubs with a youth programme will also benefit.

The role of the media cannot be underestimated, and we thank you for your continued support from the inception. Distribution will continue.

The success of this initiative would never have been possible without the support of the following: Javed and Imran of West Indian Sports Complex, Option Group of USA, Hilbert Foster, Bish Panday of P and P Insurance Brokers, Sean Devers, Trevis Simon, Årïêl J. Tïlkú, Aaron Beharry, Leanna Bachan and Imran Saccoor, Devon Ramnauth, Teddy Singh, Romash Munna, Ravi Etwaroo, Kelvin Brijlall, Ravin Harkishun, Surendra Harkishun, Allan Mangru and Dennis Mangru, Vishal Mahabir, Sherman Austin, Huburn Evans, Rajendra Sadeo and Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall, Sheik Mohamed of Star Sports Awards and Trophies, Ajay Gainda of Cricket Equipment Guyana, Gajanand Singh, Peter Ramkissoon, Rabindranath Saywack, Roshan Gaffoor, Ameer Rahaman, Chin Singh, Denesh Chandrapaul, Davo Naraine of UK, Dr Cecil Beharry, Raj Mathura, Raj Bharrat, Latch Mohabir and family, Suresh Dhanai, Vishal Nagamootoo, Moses Nagamootoo Jnr, Regal Sports Store, Omkar Singh, Parmanand Dhaniram, Reshma Mathura, Booman Singh, Krishna Rengensamy, Ishwar Singh, Ricky Deonarain of 4R Bearings, Terry Mathura of TDMJ Inc., Kennard Verapen and NY Pioneer CC, Anita and Derek Kallicharran, Subhas Powan Persaud of DX Sports, Ramjit Singh, Vishnu Dudnauth, Johnno Persaud, Bob Harrischan, Kumar Dindial, Shazam Hussain, Ravi Lutchman of JIS&L NY and Muhammad Afzal of Cyber Trading, Georgetown.

Banks DIH Special Events Manager Mortimer George

Marvin Abbensettes (right) handing over one pair of cricket shoes to Afraz Budhoo in the presence of his team mates and Anil Beharry

Some more big sixes are anticipated this Sunday

South Africa tour of West Indies 2024: Test 1 of 2…

Maharaj's 28-over spell applies squeeze on WI on rain-affected day

Keshav Maharaj

bowled 28 overs unchanged from the Media Centre End, albeit with weather-related interruptions, as South Africa frustrated West Indies on the third day of a rain-affected Test. The squeeze brought only four wickets, and with 90 minutes lost in the day and more rain on the way, the chances of victory for either side seem slim, but South Africa would consider themselves as having the upper hand.

West Indies are 212 runs behind on a slow, dry pitch, and runs continue to be hard to come by. South Africa added only 13 runs to their overnight score, but managed their highest first innings total in nine away Tests since Christchurch 2022.

However, they needed quick wickets to make it count but were blunted by the West Indies' line-up, and committed a few lapses in the field on a surface unsuited to urgency. Batting has been laborious so far, and the early signs on the third morning were that it would become even more difficult.

The second ball in the day’s play, bowled by Jayden Seales, kept low, and Wiaan Mulder was fortunate that it did not seam back sufficiently to take out off stump. Still, South Africa seemed to have had a clear directive to score quickly, and Kagiso Rabada led the charge. He flicked Seales through backward square leg, and then attempted a drive but edged wide of second slip in a productive over.

His intent did not last long. Rabada faced five more balls before Jomel Warrican found the edge and Joshua da Silva did the rest. Seales finished off when he bowled Lungi Ngidi six balls later to end South Africa's innings 20 minutes into the session. They added just 13 runs to

their overnight score.

West Indies were in the field for 117.4 overs, and would have had enough time to know that batting would be tough, especially against South Africa's best. Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi shared the new ball, and had different but equally testing questions for the openers. While Rabada kept it full, Ngidi was more back of a length, and West Indies managed only 23 runs in

their first ten overs.

Mulder, playing as the third seamer, replaced Ngidi, but when Rabada's spell ended, South Africa were forced to turn to spin early.

Maharaj was given the ball in the 13th over, and came close to an early breakthrough. In his second over, Maharaj drew Kraigg Brathwaite forward and induced the edge, which lobbed low but carried to Aiden

for six three overs into the second session, but left it to Keacy Carty to do most of the attacking.

been accurate, he would have been caught short of his ground; but the ball went wide, and Carty batted on.

Markram at slip. However, he could not hold on.

Brathwaite was on 7 off 43 balls at the time, and he went on to cut Maharaj through point for his first four; but, much like South African captain Temba Bavuma on day two, was content to spend time at the crease and let the runs come from the other end.

On debut, Carty impressed with his assuredness, and played the shot of the day when he got up on his toes to punch Rabada behind point for four.

With their options limited to four frontline bowlers, South Africa had to keep Maharaj at one end. He kept Brathwaite quiet for a period, in which the West Indian captain scored just 6 runs off 37 balls from him, and rotate through the three seamers and matters became pedes-

Mikyle Louis was more proactive, particularly through the covers, with four of his five boundaries coming in that region. He hit the single that took West Indies to fifty, which was also the fourth half-century opening stand between him and Brathwaite in three Tests, and he helped West Indies nearly get through the session unscathed. But, the ball before lunch, Louis played for turn to a Maharaj arm ball and was bowled.

Play was delayed for 55 minutes after the scheduled second-session restart, but one over later, rain forced another 20-minute break. The interruptions had no effect on Brathwaite's concentration, as he hit Maharaj

trian. None of them looked like taking a wicket, but a chance came in the field when Carty, on 28, defended a Mulder ball to point and took off for a run, but had Ryan Rickelton to contend with. Carty turned back, and if Rickelton's throw had

Three overs later, Carty was on 32 when he hit Maharaj aerially to cover. Tristan Stubbs ran back to take the catch over his shoulder, but misjudged and spilled it.

Just when South Africa may have become disheartened, a sedate Brathwaite hit Ngidi to Mulder at midon and ran for the single, but a direct hit found him on the line and out on the stroke of tea.

Brathwaite’s 35 runs took 131 balls, and he maintains the lowest strike rate among batters who have scored 5,000 Test runs since 2001.

With the interval came the rain, and there was a further 35-minute delay before the start of the last session.

Seven balls into the evening, a Maharaj ball ended Carty's debut innings as it skidded and struck him on the front pad. Aiden Markam, operating as South Africa's second spinner, could have had another wicket five overs later, when Kavem Hodge, on 3, edged, but Kyle Verreynne did not react quickly enough to hold on. Instead, Markram was the fielder when Maharaj struck again in the next over, when Alick Athanaze edged an arm ball to Markam to slip.

Markram and Maharaj bowled for most of the rest of the session, apart from a final late burst by Rabada, who could not remove either Hodge or Jason Holder. (ESPNCricinfo)

Kraigg Brathwaite going aerial

Jomel Warrican claimed 4 wickets

Kraigg Brathwaite and Keacy Carty put on 60 for the second wicket

Keshav Maharaj dismissed Keacy Carty with an arm ball

Tony de Zorzi steered South Africa with a 78-ball fifty