Guyana, US EXIM seal historic US$527M loan deal for GtE project
WHAT'S INSIDE:
US$25M reward for arrest of Venezuela’s Maduro – US announces P17 Grenada, Barbados among C’bean countries requesting Guyana’s help in training teachers Woman jailed, fined for cocainepossession
Market vendor busted with over 1.1kg cocaine charged, remanded Demerara River Bridge accident Body of Chinese national recovered by Coast Guards Health Ministry invests $646M to combat mosquitoborne diseases
James Bond, attorney Selwyn Pieters throw support behind Pres Ali for a 2nd term
- “… I am not worried about people going” – Aubrey Norton
APeople’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) engaged residents of Melanie on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) and addressed concerns raised.
In addition to Bond, attorney-at-law Selwyn Pieters, who has in the past represented several Opposition persons and Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), also threw his support behind President Ali and publicly endorsed him.
On Thursday, President Dr Irfaan Ali accompanied by several Ministers of the
ttorney-at-law and businessman, James Bond, who had previously held senior positions within the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), has endorsed President Dr Irfaan Ali for a second term in office.
In a social media post Peters wrote, “James Anthony-Bond and Selwyn Pieters share the same view that President Irfaan Ali and the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic will be back for a second term. President Ali is as real as they come and I like him. He is also working very hard on the domestic and international sphere. He may not be perfect for all but no one is perfect. “He who is without sin cast the first stone” John 8:7.”
Meanwhile, Bond had high praises for President Ali and the PPP/C Government’s commitment enhancing the lives of citizens, especially youths.
Recalling the friendly relations the two shared over the years, Bond publicly declared his support for
President Ali’s second term in office.
“We were here first with a number of Ministers a few years back, and it's good to see that consistency in connecting with the people of Mali and the East Coast. There is one particular thing I admire in your administration. It's the drive to involve youth in agriculture. I went to the Expo a couple of years ago and was thoroughly impressed, and I see when you post the aquaponics, the aeroponics, and I see just recently on East Bank there you're visiting a farm,” he expressed.
He further went on to highlight the Head of State’s commitment.
“President Ali, there's one person who's always remembered me. Since he
was a Minister, he always remembered me. He is a friend to me, and I’m giving you my full support for a second term. I’ve said it publicly”
Bond has been out of the political limelight since 2020 but has been seen at several state events organised by the PPP/C Government.
Meanwhile, on Friday, PNCR Leader Aubrey Norton, who is also the leader of the Opposition, was asked about Bond’s endorsement of Ali.
“As it relates to James Bond, he’s free to say what he wants - a few weeks ago it was Mohammed, now is Irfaan the next time it
might be us.”
Norton further stated that he was not concerned about other PNC members following suit and switching alliance at the upcoming 2025 elections.
“I don’t see it as a concern, the only time something like that becomes a concern is if the people who are going have a support base from the evidence, none of them that went before had a support base. The support base was a PNCR/ APNU support base so I am not worried about people going…”
In recent years, the PNC support base has been diminishing with several senior members crossing over to the PPP/C.
President Dr Irfaan Ali meeting with residents
Attorney-at-law James Bond
Attorney-at-law Selwyn Pieters
PNCR Leader, Aubrey Norton
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, January 11 –01:45h-03:15h and Sunday, January 12 – 04:00h-05:30h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, January 11 –14:10h-15:40h and Sunday, January 12 – 15:00h-16:30h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Guyana, US EXIM seal historic US$527M loan deal for GtE Project
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
North-Easterly
…as local private sector is challenged to leverage remaining US$1.5B in financing
The Guyana
Government has signed the US$527 million loan agreement with the United States (US) ExportImport (EXIM) Bank – funds that will go towards the advancement of the transformative Gas-to-Energy (GtE) Project.
Back in 2023, Guyana had applied for a loan from the US EXIM Bank to finance the US$761 million GtE Project, which includes the construction of an Integrated Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) plant and a 300-megawatt (MW) combined cycle power plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD), utilising natural gas from the country’s offshore operations in the Stabroek Block.
On December 26, 2024, it was announced that US EXIM Bank’s Board of Directors approved $527 million to Guyana’s Finance Ministry to support the highly anticipated GtE Project that will strengthen the country’s energy security by doubling its installed electric capacity.
According to the bank, the financing from the loan transaction will aid the construction of a natural gas separation plant, a 300 MW combined cycle gas turbine power plant and services related to the gas supply pipeline near Georgetown.
Game-changer
On Friday, Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh along with the US EXIM Bank President and Chair, Reta Jo Lewis, inked the loan agreement at the Wales construction site of the project. This was done in the presence of Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips; Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat; US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, and other officials including representatives from the contractor, Lindsayca CH4 Guyana Inc. (LNDCH4 Guyana) – a US joint venture Texas-based Lindsayca and CH4 Systems, a Puerto Rican small business.
In her remarks, Chair Lewis, who is in Guyana for a four-day visit said, this over a half billion US dollar energy deal is a gamechanger, not just for Guyana and the US but also for the people, businesses, and shared aspirations that unite the two nations.
“Together, we are taking bold steps to strengthen energy security, enhance environmental sustainability, and unlock economic opportunity. For Guyana, this project will double the country's installed electric capacity, providing cleaner, more
reliable, and more affordable energy for families and businesses.
“We know that by partnering with the US and our private sector, Guyana has chosen the best-in-class equipment and a work culture dedicated to high standards and safety. US equipment and technology offer reliable, durable, quality solutions for Guyana's development,” she posited.
The US EXIM Bank President went onto note the institution’s unwavering commitment to supporting US businesses and workers – something which she re-
minded also extends to the Guyanese private sector.
“We know… that this is just the first of many deals to come as I have a message for the business leaders here in Guyana. We can be at US EXIM, a major resource for you – whether your business is large, medium or small. When you need American goods and service, EXIM is there to help you with that financing as well as [for] any foreign buyer who wants to purchase American goods and services, and export them to Guyana or throughout the region,” Chair Lewis posited.
Take advantage Similar sentiments were expressed by Minister Singh, who encouraged Guyanese businesses to take advantage of the roughly US1.5 million in financing that is available at the US EXIM bank.
Back in July 2022, Guyana and the US EXIM bank had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for financing of up to US$2 billion for projects in several sectors including infrastructure, energy, telecommunications, water treatment and sanitation, and agriculture.
(L-R) Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, Prime Minister Mark Phillips, US EXIM Bank Chair Reta Jo Lewis and US Ambassador Nicole Theriot following the signing of the US$527M loan agreement
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Empathy and efficiency
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo’s appeal for greater empathy and efficiency in the distribution of old age pension books is both timely and critical. His comments, made during a weekly press conference, shine a much-needed spotlight on the systemic and attitudinal shortcomings in public service delivery, particularly as they affect vulnerable populations like the elderly. While Government has implemented measures to improve the process, persistent complaints from pensioners underscore the urgent need for better staff management and training. The distribution of old age pension books — a seemingly straightforward administrative task — has been marred by reports of inefficiency and insensitivity. Pensioners have detailed enduring long waiting times, encountering abrupt office closures, and dealing with dismissive attitudes from officers. These experiences are not mere inconveniences; for many elderly citizens, they represent significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens.
The Human Services and Social Security Ministry has said that it has taken steps to streamline the process. These include region-specific distribution schedules, home delivery for shut-in pensioners, and public advisories urging pensioners to avoid peak hours. Yet, the Vice President’s candid critique highlights a glaring issue - the human element. Despite systemic improvements, the attitude and behaviour of some public officers continue to erode public confidence and exacerbate challenges. At its core, the problem lies not just in logistical inefficiencies, but in the culture of public service. Dr Jagdeo’s frustration with officers who prioritise personal matters over their responsibilities and show little regard for the people they are meant to serve is a sentiment shared by many citizens. This behaviour reflects a lack of accountability and a troubling disconnect between public servants and the communities they serve.
With 73,000 pensioners nationwide relying on this system, the stakes are high. The Vice President has rightly pointed out that “Empathy should be at the core of public service.” This statement encapsulates the broader issue: the need for a cultural shift within public institutions. Public service is not merely about fulfilling tasks; it is about serving people with dignity, respect, and care.
To address these issues, a dual approach is needed in regard to systemic reforms and cultural transformation. The Ministry must establish clear accountability mechanisms to ensure officers fulfill their duties responsibly. Supervisors should monitor adherence to schedules, and address complaints promptly. Incidents of negligence or misconduct must be met with appropriate disciplinary action. Additionally, performance evaluations should include metrics that assess how well officers interact with the public, incentivising good behaviour and penalising poor performance. Training is essential to instill the values of empathy and efficiency in public servants. Officers should undergo mandatory customer service training with a focus on understanding the unique challenges faced by the elderly. Roleplaying exercises and workshops can help them develop the skills needed to handle high-pressure situations while maintaining professionalism and compassion. Dr. Jagdeo’s call for a systemic approach — possibly leveraging technology — is worth exploring. A digital system for registering pensioners and distributing pension books could minimize human errors and reduce waiting times. For instance, an online appointment booking system could help stagger foot traffic at distribution venues, ensuring a smoother process for both pensioners and staff. Cultural change requires leadership. Senior officials must lead by example, demonstrating empathy in their interactions and emphasizing its importance during staff meetings and training sessions. Public campaigns highlighting the value of respect and care in public service could also help shift attitudes over time. Failing to address these issues would have far-reaching consequences. For pensioners, the current inefficiencies translate into unnecessary hardships. For Government, they result in diminished trust and credibility. In a broader sense, they undermine the very purpose of public service: to enhance the well-being of citizens.
Vice President Jagdeo’s call is an opportunity to reimagine public service delivery in Guyana. By prioritising empathy and efficiency, Government can not only resolve the immediate challenges faced by pensioners, but also set a precedent for how public institutions should operate. This requires a commitment to better staff management, comprehensive training, technological innovation, and a cultural shift towards respect and care.
The elderly, who have contributed to society in countless ways, deserve nothing less.
The UN can end the Middle East conflict by welcoming Palestine as a member
By Jeffrey SachS and SyBil fareS
On its 80th birthday in 2025, the UN can mark the occasion by securing a lasting solution to the conflict in the Middle East, by welcoming the State of Palestine as the 194th UN member state. The upcoming UN Conference on Palestine, set for June 2025, can be a turning point: a decisive, irreversible path towards peace in the Middle East.
The Trump Administration would greatly serve the interests of America and the world by championing the two-state solution and a comprehensive Middle East peace deal at the gathering in New York in June. Amidst Israel’s shocking brutality in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, a small window of hope has nonetheless emerged. Almost the entire world has coalesced around the two-state solution as the key to regional peace. As a result, a comprehensive deal is now within reach.
The UN General Assembly recently adopted a potentially transformative resolution (PDF) by an overwhelming margin. The UNGA demands an end to Israel’s illegal 1967 occupation, and reaffirms its unwavering support for the two-state solution. Most importantly, the resolution laid out a roadmap for establishing a Palestinian state at the high-level international conference (PDF) to be held in June 2025 at the United Nations.
Consider how long the Palestinians, and the world, have waited for this moment. In 1947, the UN first took on the responsibility of addressing the Palestinian question. With Resolution
181 (PDF), the UN General Assembly proposed the partition of Mandatory Palestine into two independent states, one Jewish and the other Arab. The proposed partition, alas, was neither fair nor agreed upon by the parties. It allocated 44 percent of the land to the Palestinians, although they were 67 percent of the population. Yet, before the plan could be revised and settled peacefully, Zionist terror groups began to ethnically cleanse more than 700,000 Palestinians from their homes in the so-called Nakba, or catastrophe, of the Palestinian people.
After Israel unilaterally declared its independence and defeated its Arab neighbours in war, senior UN mediator Count Folke Bernadotte tried to resurrect the two-state solution. Bernadotte was assassinated by Lehi, a Zionist paramilitary organisation.
Israel signed the 1949 Lausanne Protocol that resurrected the two-state solution under UN auspices, but then blatantly disregarded it. What ensued instead was Israel’s 75-year quest to deny Palestinians their rights to a homeland.
For decades, the US Government, under guidance of the Israel lobby, presided over a phony negotiating process. These efforts ostensibly involved direct bilateral talks between an occupying power and an occupied people - inherently unequal parties - in which Israel’s goal was always to reject a truly sovereign Palestinian state. At best, Israel offered “Bantustans”, that is: little powerless enclaves of Palestinians living under Israel’s control.
The US-dominated pro-
cess has continued since the mid-1970s, including the 1978 Camp David Accords, 1991 Madrid Conference, 1993-1995 Oslo Accords, 2000 Camp David Summit, 2003 Quartet Roadmap for Peace, and 2007 Annapolis Conference. In this hall-ofmirrors process, the Israelis have continuously blocked a Palestinian state while the US “mediators” have continuously blamed the Palestinians for their intransigence.
The Trump Administration could choose to change the game at the upcoming UN conference – in America’s interest, Israel’s long-term interest and security, and the interest of the Middle East and the world in peace. The US is, in fact, the only remaining veto against a Palestinian state. Israel has no veto on a Palestinian state, or on peace, for that matter. Only the US has that veto.
Yes, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has ideas other than peace. He and his coalition continue to have one purpose: to deny a state of Palestine by expanding Israel’s territorial conquests, now including not only occupied Palestine but also parts of Lebanon and a growing part of Syria.
A new US foreign policy is needed in the Middle East; one that brings about peace rather than endless war. As mandated by the International Court of Justice, and as demonstrated through the General Assembly, G20 (PDF), BRICS (PDF), and League of Arab States (PDF), the overwhelming majority of the world favours the two-state solution.
The UN Conference on Palestine is therefore a key
and vital opportunity that could unlock a comprehensive peace for the Middle East, including seven interconnected measures:
1. An immediate UNmandated ceasefire across all fronts of the conflict, including Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iraq, and Iran, and the immediate release of hostages and prisoners of war across all entities.
2. Admission of a sovereign State of Palestine as the 194th UN member state on the borders of June 4, 1967, with its capital in East Jerusalem. Withdrawal of the Israeli armed forces from territories occupied in 1967, with the simultaneous introduction of UN-mandated international forces and security guarantees to protect all populations.
3. Protection of the territorial integrity and stability of Lebanon and Syria; full demilitarisation of all non-state forces; and withdrawal of all foreign armies from the respective countries.
4. Adoption of an updated Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Iran, and the end of all economic and other sanctions on Iran.
5. Termination, including defunding and disarmament of belligerent non-state entities, of all claims or states of belligerency; and respect for, and acknowledgement of, the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of every state in the area, (without excluding the possibility of subsequent territorial adjustments, security arrangements, and cooperative forms of governance agreed by the sovereign parties).
President Dr Irfaan Ali received a courtesy visit from the President and Chair of the United States Export Import Bank (EXIM), Reta Jo Lewis, at State House on Friday. During their meeting, the Head of State outlined Guyana’s plans for development and economic diversification. Lewis and her delegation, which included Deputy Chief of Staff and White House Liaison, Hazeen Ashby; and Acting Senior Vice President, Office of Global Development, Ufo Eric Atuanya, were accompanied by US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot (Office of the President photo)
Project management needs urgent improvement
Dear Editor, The Ministry of Labour continues to experience gaps in enforcement of the safety requirements for the construction industry. The number of deaths in that industry has returned to previous levels, and the recent fall to his death of a Chinese citizen while working at a height on construction site for the New Demerara River Bridge is indicative of the problem before us.
I have mentioned the importance of using fall protection mechanisms on numerous occasions, but these incidents continue to occur. Major construction and public works’ projects should have dedicated Environmental, Health and Safety personnel on site to control aspects of the project where high risk
is involved. The issuing of onsite permits and safety gear, such as for fall protection when such works are undertaken during the project, must become the norm, in order to prevent recurrence of tragic incidents and reduce the risk of injury during execution of these major projects.
We all remember the recent early morning meeting with the President. Let's ensure the budget process keeps this in mind, so as to prevent further national embarrassment. Government must be prepared to staff and support the projects which it undertakes.
The upcoming budget presentation should be cognizant of the human resource limitations at the ministries and within the country. This should in -
form how they structure the development strategy. It would help to ensure that spending is more effective & efficient, and that the economy would be prevented from overheating due to the additional market constraints that can result.
We must, as a country, do what is within our current capabilities, and be cautious not to repeat the mistakes of the recent past, which have resulted in several projects being poorly executed and also exceeding budget targets. The recent debacle in Ruimveldt, where powerline poles were toppled, is another example of the problem.
With concern,
Jamil Changlee
Strongly condemning Venezuela’s threats to elect a Governor for Essequibo
Dear Editor,
As President of the Committee to Preserve Guyana’s Sovereignty, and as District Leader of Richmond Hill and Ozone Park, which are designated “Little Guyana” on the NYC and US maps, we strongly condemn the escalating actions of Venezuelan strongman Nicolas Maduro to seize more than two-thirds of Guyana’s territory.
Venezuela’s recent threat to elect a Governor for the Essequibo County of Guyana is an outrageous claim that must be rejected ab initio. This is a fundamental and vicious violation of international law, the Law of Nations, and basic human decency. It is tantamount to a declaration of war, an act of terror, and constitutes an egregious precedent.
We call upon all nations, the US President, the insti-
tutions of America, and all right-thinking individuals and organizations worldwide to condemn this illegal act. Collectively, we must safeguard Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while bringing Maduro to justice as a war criminal.
Venezuela’s plan also transgresses the Argyle Agreement of December 14, 2023 and the binding Order of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued on December 1, 2023, which both commit Guyana and Venezuela unequivocally to refrain from escalating any conflict or disagreement arising from the territorial controversy between the two countries, including refraining from actions that could aggravate tensions or alter the current situation in the disputed territory, pending resolution of the controversy in accor-
dance with international law. Maduro’s quixotic but dangerous ambition would be another flagrant fundamental usurpation of the basic tenets of international law, a travesty of the UN Charter, a declaration of war, and the machinations of a demented dictator, for Venezuela to attempt to conduct an election in Guyanese territory involving Guyanese nationals, in an independent land where it has no jurisdiction. Venezuela’s resources would be better spent providing for the suffering masses who seek refuge en masse in other countries, and are fleeing the Maduro dictatorship in unprecedented numbers.
We will not, and must not, allow this Venezuelan seizure of Guyanese territory to happen.
Sincerely, Albert Baldeo
Absence of fixed election date does not prevent GECOM from conducting non-statutory preparatory activities
Dear Editor, Please permit me space in your letter columns to given clarity to some misleading matters that were published in the January 8, 2025 edition of <<Guyana Times>>, in an article titled “GECOM awaits official date for E-DAY to formally begin preparations – CEO – as over 2800 transactions facilitated during current Claims & Objections period”.
The article conveys that “formal preparations remain on hold, with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) awaiting an announcement of a date from President Dr Irfaan Ali”.
This is ambiguous in relation to the preparation of a workplan (not “war plan”) delineating the statutory activities and their respective enabling administrative tasks for the conduct of the elections. Such a workplan can be prepared only after the President has announced a date for the conduct of General and Regional Elections this year. However, the absence of a fixed date for the elections does not prohibit the GECOM Secretariat from embarking on the conduct of non-statutory preparatory activities; e.g. developing strategies for procurement,
The UN can end...
FROM PAGE 4
civic and voter education and logistics, and revision of the manuals in line with amendments made to the Representation of the People Act, to be followed by the conduct of training of management staff for the elections.
It follows therefore that there is no issue in regard to
GECOM being unable to initiate its official preparations for the elections until the President has announced the official date for the hosting of the elections. I have absolutely no idea what is meant by the Commission is yet to “receive the formal mandate to proceed with the necessary
groundwork”, and I certainly did not provide any such comment to the reporter who spoke with me over the telephone. The reporter did ask about critical (her word) preparations, such as the introduction of cameras at polling stations and the use of biometrics. I responded by emphasizing that: (i) the
issue of biometrics was currently engaging the attention of the Commission, and (ii): discussion on the issue of the introduction of cameras at polling stations had not commenced as yet.
Sincerely, Vishnu
Persaud Chief Election Officer
6. Establishment of regional peace and normalisation of diplomatic relations by all Arab and Islamic states with Israel.
7. Establishment of an Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East Sustainable Development Fund to support reconstruction, economic recovery, and sustainable development of the region.
After far too many decades of violence and wars, the chance for peace is here and now. The UN’s endeavour for a comprehensive peace is our best hope and opportunity in decades. (Al Jazeera)
(Jeffrey D Sachs is a university professor and Director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University. He is also President of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and is a commissioner of the UN Broadband Commission for Development. Sybil Fares is an Advisor on the Middle East and Africa for UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network)
Box-and-Whisker Plots
A box-and-whisker plot allows you to look at data to tell where most of the numbers lie. Thus, this type of plot shows the medians in the data.
Example:
Your aunt had purchased some Brazil-made shoes from Home and Beyond for you and your 10 cousins for the New Year. You have noticed there are numbers on the soles of the shoes. You have arranged these numbers in order: 22, 24, 28, 32, 34, 36, 36, 38, 38, 39, 40
The lower extreme is the lowest number in your data.
The upper extreme is the highest number in your data. The median of all the numbers in the data is the middle number, 36.
The lower quartile is the median of the numbers below the median: 28.
The upper quartile is the median of the numbers above the median: 38.
You have four sections on your line of data: each relates to its quartile mark, and each quartile mark relates to the median. Each quartile contains ¼ of the data.
What is the range of the lowest quartile?
Step 1: Find the lower extreme and the lower quartile: 22 and 28
Step 2: Subtract the lower extreme from the lower quartile: 28 – 22 = 7
Exercises: Solve:
1) Draw a box-and-whisker plot for the data set {3, 7, 8, 5, 12, 14, 21, 13, 18}.
2) Draw a box-and-whisker plot for the data set {3, 7, 8, 5, 12, 14, 21, 15, 18, 14}.
Painted jars for organising coloured pencils or small toys
Do you have dozens of bottles or jars set aside for no specific use? How about a few jars tucked away in your cabinets? If so, you can paint the jars and then set them up on desks or bookshelves as a way to sort and organise colored pencils, pens, toys, erasers, legos, etc. (drippingwithkidsblog.com)
January is the month That starts a brand new year We stay up late on New Year's Eve At midnight we all cheer! When winter winds are chilly we build snowmen, short or tall! We ice skate at the rink as snowflakes start to fall!
Education Ministry battling teacher shortage for TVET, music, foreign languages, PE
As more students display interest in subject areas such as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and music, there has been a noticeable lack of qualified personnel to adequately cater for the growing demand of students in these fields.
The Education Ministry on Friday conducted its 2024 end of year report to provide the media with insights on the Ministry’s progress over the years. During the Press briefing, Education Minister, Priya Manickchand revealed that while there is no lack of teachers to train students at the Nursery and Primary Levels.
The Minister revealed that at the secondary level, there is a shortage of teachers for subjects such as music and foreign languages among others.
“Well let’s be careful with that. There is a shortage of TVET teachers, Music teachers, PE teachers.”
The Minister added that the need for TVET teachers in particular has skyrocketed over the years.
“TVET is really beating us bad right now because of all we have been doing, we have been engaging more students in doing tech… But we believe we can pick it up. We used to have shortages in Agriculture Science and then that changed we don’t have that anymore.”
Moreover, to date across all levels of education, the Minister noted that the country has some 15,000 teachers in the system. In fact, the Minister highlighted that there has also been an increase in private sector teachers transferring into the public sector due to attractive benefits.
“We now have close to 15,000 teachers. Here’s the other story about that, a lot of private school teachers are asking to come over to the public schools because the conditions are better, the salary is better.”
This, the Ministry of education indicated, is a pos-
itive trend, particularly in light of the numerous new schools being constructed countrywide. The Ministry does not anticipate experiencing challenges in filling these schools with educators. In fact, Chief Education Officer (CEO) Saddam Hussain highlight-
ed that on the coast, over 70 per cent of schools are overstaffed.
“Just to point out on the coast alone more than 75 per cent of the schools that we have are currently overstaffed, so the Ministry of education over the past 2 months has had to engage in a significant rationalisation of staffing on the coast.”
Meanwhile, just recently in October Guyana Times had reported that some 1502 pre-service and in-service teachers graduated from the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) which represents the second largest group of teachers to graduate from the institution throughout its 96 years in existence.
Of last year’s graduating batch, 86 per cent were females and 14 per cent were males. Some 447 teachers graduated from Early childhood education, 602 from
Primary Education, 169 from Secondary Education, 251 from Secondary PreVocational, and 33 from General Teacher Education (GTE) and Technical Teacher Education (TTE).
CPCE offers a wide variety of courses and programmes for every level of teaching, including early childhood programmes for both pre-service and in-service students, the primary programme, and the secondary academic and pre-vocational programmes. In total, there are four programmes for the Associate Degree in Education (ADE), along with a Trained Teacher Certificate (TTC) Programme for in-service teachers who are not eligible for the ADE Programme. Last year, for the first time in education history, CPCE students received Diplomas and Degrees in Special Education Needs.
Guyana, US EXIM seal historic US$527M...
The MOU provides a framework within which financing can be provided by EXIM to advance developmental projects either by the state or the private sector in Guyana while promoting the export of US-made goods and services.
“We want to see much more business done with EXIM. We want big, medium and small-sized projects… The facility you approved is a US$2 billion facility [and] we’ve only utilised about half a billion dollar of that so there is still another US$1.5 billion of potential business to be done with Guyana, and we’re looking forward to taking up all of that room. And I want to encourage Guyana’s private sector to avail themselves of the various tools and instruments and products that are offered by EXIM to private sectors around the world to do business with American companies,” the Finance Minister stated during
Friday’s signing. In fact, Chair Lewis and her team is expected to meet with the Guyanese private sector representatives today to explore the financing options that the US EXIM bank is offering.
Nevertheless, Minister Singh went onto highlight that importance of this energy deal that will further strengthen the already strong relations between Guyana and the US, which he added is now entering a new dimension especially in the economic trade and commercial sectors. This, according to the Finance Minister, is reflective in the approval of the loan for the GtE Project.
“Notwithstanding that, during the course of this journey, it felt sometimes that we were not getting it as quickly as we wanted to, but the reality is that moving from zero to half a billion in two and a half years really is a remarkable achieve-
ment… And it represents a good example of what can be achieved,” Singh noted.
“Breathe life”
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Phillips, who has responsibility for the country’s energy sector, remarked that this loan from the US EXIM will “breathe life” into the GtE Project, which will not only enhance generation capacity and provide reliable power but also slash the cost of electricity by half when the 300MW power plant comes on stream later this year.
According to the Prime Minister, “Today, we are speaking of a cleaner, more reliable, and more affordable energy future for every citizen. Families will find relief in lower electricity costs. Businesses will discover new avenues for growth. Our industries will expand, bringing with them jobs, opportunities, and prosperity. This proj-
ect will be the backbone of a stronger economy that is prepared to compete on the global stage.”
He emphasised further that the approval and subsequent signing of the loan agreement is a demonstration of the US EXIM Bank’s trust in Guyana’s potential and its commitment to fu-
ture generations.
“For a nation as rich in natural beauty and biodiversity as Guyana, it sends a clear message that Guyana is committed to growth, but not at the expense of the generations to come… Our oil and gas industry has provided the means to envision such transformative
projects, and this agreement stands as proof that we are building a future beyond the extraction of resources. This project symbolises the potential of our resources to bring real and lasting benefits to the people of Guyana,” PM Phillips posited.
(Vahnu Manikchand)
American Airlines passenger dies while waiting to board flight at CJIA
A72-year-old passenger, passed away at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) while preparing to board American Airlines flight AA2694 to New York on Friday.
According to the CJIA in a release, Alwayne Barratt appeared unwell and airline personnel directed her to Port Health for a medical
clearance. At Port Health, it was determined that she had no pulse.
CJIA in a release said that Barratt’s family has since disclosed that she was discharged from a private city hospital on Thursday and was traveling with her son to seek further medical treatment in the United States (US). She was suffering from diabetes, hyperten-
sion and pneumonia. “The ambulance was immediately summoned, and Ms Barratt was transported to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, where she was pronounced dead. The management of CJIA extends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Ms Barratt during this difficult time,” the airport management said in a statement.
Education Minister Priya Manickchand
Market vendor busted with over 1.1kg cocaine charged, remanded
Wendez Pompey, a 24-year-old market vendor from Lot 23, Hill Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, was remanded on Friday, after being charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.
Pompey appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on the charge, which stemmed from a Jan 9 incident where police intercepted Pompey driving minibus BAE 7328 on Mittleholzer Street in North Ruimveldt, Georgetown.
According to reports, at approximately 20:15h, officers from the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU), acting on intelligence, stopped Pompey, who was the lone occupant of the vehicle.
During a search of the minibus, they discovered a black haversack on the front passenger seat containing a transparent, brick-like parcel.
When the officers opened
the parcel, it revealed a white substance that tested positive for cocaine. The cocaine, which was weighed at CANU headquarters, amounted to 1.156 kg.
At his court appearance, Pompey was represented by Attorney Jevon Cox and pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Cox, in his bail application, argued that the offence required special reasons to be considered for bail. He pointed out that the illegal substance was not found on Pompey’s person, and that Pompey was unaware of the drugs in the bus.
Cox further argued that Pompey had brought this to the attention of CANU officers Thursday evening when he was arrested, and no contact had been made with the registered owner of the minibus at the time the charges were laid.
According to Cox, Pompey recounted that he had just delivered puri and was returning to the vehicle when he was confronted by officers. He maintained that his client was innocent and had no knowledge of the drugs found in the minibus.
Based on these circumstances, Cox asked the court to exercise discretion and grant bail for his client.
However, the prosecutor opposed bail, emphasising that no special reason should be given in this case and that the Counsel’s claims were contentious.
She revealed that based on CANU’s report, Pompey was the only person in the vehicle at the time, and the cocaine was found directly next to him on the passenger seat.
The prosecutor argued that Pompey had not denied knowledge of the drugs, and that the defence’s claims should be addressed during trial, not at this stage of proceedings.
The Magistrate denied Pompey’s bail application and placed him on remand. The matter was adjourned to Feb. 21, for continuation.
This is not the first time Pompey has faced legal troubles. In February 2004, he was arrested on the Suddie Public Road, Essequibo Coast, with 27.9 grams of cannabis in his possession. He pleaded guilty to the charge before Charity Magistrate Esther Sam, resulting in a fine of $41,550 and an order to perform two months of community service at the Ruimveldt Police Station. Failure to comply with the community service order would have led to two months’ imprisonment.
Changing…
…support
They say you can’t put your toe into the same river twice – the river would’ve flowed on, and the waters would’ve been different!! And while not as dramatically, our societies also change over time, even though the effects of such change take time to be manifested. Our ethnic politics have been with us for so long that many despair it would ever change. But change it must - especially when there are those like the PPP, who’re working day in and day out to break the old walls and cleavages.
So, your Eyewitness wasn’t surprised when, on Pressie’s walkabout a couple of days ago in Melanie Damishana on the ECD, former PNC executive James Bond threw his support behind him for the upcoming elections!! Bond was very close to former PNC Chair Volda Lawrence, and, as a prominent campaigner, was considered by some as a contender for the top rung.
Quite young, and a lawyer to boot, he was gonna be one of the new members who’d carry the PNC flag forward.
But after his Godmother Volda fell out of favour with the hardliners in the PNC - when she condemned the incendiary remarks of Granger and Harmon to stir up antiIndian violence in West Berbice after the attempted 2020 rig - he also faded. But he did go out under a cloud when, as an attorney for several land speculators, he became embroiled in accusations of illegal flipping of NICIL lands. Millions of US dollars were involved!! In any case, he came out from under that dark cloud and went into running a bar and lounge in Melanie, which he did very successfully. It was one of the few times – if ever – that a member of the PNC actually ran a business successfully!! Not only that, but he encouraged other young African Guyanese in the area to get into entrepreneurship. Recently, it appeared that he put together a bunch of youths to farm a five-acre plot, and was assisted by the Government, and Pressie in particular!
Now, this is what the PPP has been preaching to Guyana: that their job ain’t just to pass out cash handouts, but to facilitate training and gearing young people to successfully run their own businesses!! So, what your Eyewitness thinks we’re witnessing is a wave that might just be transformed into a tsunami to overwhelm the PNC come the elections later this year. While the old fogies in the WPA might dub this phenomenon “slave catching”, it’s gonna be almost impossible for them todo anything about it.
Everybody wants to make money, and this means being pragmatic about political support. No entrepreneur is gonna cut their nose to spoil their face, excepting some who might be “genetically” predisposed!!
Let the good times roll, baby!!
…nothing!!
Well, it’s a done deal!! Mad Maduro has been sworn-in by the Head of the National Assembly, whom he controls, after he was declared winner of the July elections!! This was done by the Director of the Elections Council -- whom he also controls -- even though he’s yet to show the details of the voting as had been done in every other previous election!!
The real winner of the election - Edmundo Gonzales - in the meantime said he’s flying back to Venezuela, even though Mad Maduro has put a US$100,000 bounty on his head!!
Mad Maduro seems to be deliberately tweaking Uncle Sam’s coattails, and must’ve calculated that the lame duck Biden won’t do anything drastic!! He claims to havearrested seven “mercenaries” – two Americans, two Spanish and three Ukrainians - and accused the Yanks of being behind a move to stage a coup!! But, critically, he’s forestalled the promised mass opposition protests by deploying the “organs of integral direction”, that combine the army, militia, police and community that “maintains” order!! …race
Your Eyewitness has now heard it all. The embattled senior police officer who’s facing a gazillion charges for corruption – and proof he has $800 million in the banks – has just countered that he’s been the victim of “racial discrimination”!!
Charged: Wendez Pompey
Demerara River Bridge accident Body of Chinese national recovered by Coast Guards
The body of Fu-jian Wei, a 39-year-old Chinese national, was recovered from the Demerara River on Friday, at about 09:55h by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard.
Wei had fallen overboard on Wednesday while offloading materials from a barge at the construction site. The
current of the river carried him downstream, and despite immediate search and rescue operations by the contractor’s emergency response team, as well as assistance from the Coast Guard and police, his body had not been located until Friday.
Following the retrieval, the remains were transferred to the GDF for prelim-
inary investigations before being sent to Ezekiel Funeral Home in Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara (WBD).
Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill, has extended his condolences to Wei’s family, friends, and colleagues.
“This is a deeply unfortunate incident, and our thoughts and prayers are with Mr Wei’s loved ones.
The Government is committed to ensuring that all safety measures are enforced and will work with the contractor to prevent such tragedies in the future,” he stated.
The Public Works
Ministry has also directed the contractor to review safety procedures and strengthen them as needed for the remainder of the project. A full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing.
The Labour Ministry recently reported a sharp increase in workplace fatalities in 2024, with 32 recorded deaths, marking a 60 per cent rise from 2023.
Despite these measures, the rise in fatalities shows the persistent challenges in enforcing safety compliance. In addition to addressing workplace deaths, the Ministry investigated 144 non-fatal accidents in 2024, with most incidents reported in the agriculture sector.
The Minister noted that, while non-fatal accidents saw a slight decline, workplace deaths remain a significant concern. Initiatives like training specialists for inspections on FPSO vessels and construction outreach programmes are among the measures being implemented to improve workplace safety and reduce fatalities. (G9)
Labour Minister, Joseph Hamilton disclosed during a press conference that the majority of these fatalities occurred in high-risk sectors such as mining and construction. Efforts to combat these incidents have included the creation of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department, which conducted over 1,300 inspections nationwide, including nine offshore inspections.
The body of Fu-jian Wei being retrieved by GDF Coast Guard ranks
Dead: Fu-jian Wei
Treat pensioners with respect, care they deserve – Jagdeo to Human Services Ministry staff
In a bid to improve the delivery of public services, Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has called for greater empathy and efficiency from officers tasked with distributing old age pension books.
During his weekly press conference on Thursday, the Vice President expressed frustration with reports of pensioners facing unnecessary challenges during the process.
“I can’t imagine why this can’t be done through a system,” the Vice President remarked. “They have made some serious changes to get the books to the pensioners faster and in a more convenient way. I know what those changes are, and I’ve seen a major improvement from what it was under APNU (A Partnership for National Unity) but clearly, we still have too many cases where people have difficulties, and a lot of it is the people we have,” he added.
The comments follow widespread complaints from pensioners about long waiting times, sudden office closures, and officers showing little regard for the elderly’s time and effort.
Back in December, the Human Services and Social Security Ministry announced that the distribution of the 2025 Old Age Pension Books will begin in select regions, including Regions One, Seven, Eight, Nine and 10.
Meanwhile, Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, and Six, which have larger pensioner populations will follow later as books are still being printed.
To ensure efficiency, the Ministry has implemented several measures. Pensioners must collect books at designated venues within their regions, with schedules published week-
ly. The Ministry also urged pensioners to avoid arriving early in the morning, assuring them that all will be served throughout the day.
Additionally, shut-in pensioners—those unable to travel—will receive their books at home. Families are encouraged to register shutin cases via the Ministry’s
just shut the door and go off work for the half day and just leave the people here and come out, and say, come back another day. And they’ll (pensioners) travel here, use their money, their time, their energy at the end of the day,” he said.
He further criticised the tendency of some officers to prioritise personal matters over their responsibilities, stating, “some of them just love the confusion. They sit there, people outside, they keep them waiting. They’re supposed to start at 8:30, they start at 11, sitting in their offices, making calls, doing all sorts of things. People have to start performing public services in a certain manner. There’s a desire, they should have empathy for the people who are using the service”.
With 73,000 pensioners to serve nationwide, the Human Services and Social Security Ministry had pledged to make the process as seamless as possi-
offices or on-site at distribution venues.
Despite these efforts, the Vice President emphasised that the attitude of some officers undermines the system. “We’ve hired people to serve, they don’t operate with their heart. They (officers) would just have a hundred pensioners waiting here in an office and they’ll
ble. However numerous complaints have been made by pensioners about the systems in place for them to uplift their pension books and the manner in which they are treated when they have to interface with officers from the Ministry. The Vice President, however, stressed that systemic changes alone are insufficient without a cultural shift in how public ser-
vants approach their duties.
“Empathy should be at the core of public service,” he added, urging officials to treat pensioners with the re-
spect and care they deserve. Calls to Human Services Minister Dr Vindya Persaud on Thursday regarding complaints from pensioners and
some shut-in pensioners not being able to receive their pension books until the end of this month, went unanswered.
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
Health Ministry invests $646M to combat mosquito-borne diseases – deploying fogging machines, chemicals and other supplies countrywide
In an effort to reduce mosquito-borne diseases, the Ministry of Health has invested approximately $646 million to ensure that every region of Guyana receives fogging machines, chemicals and other essential vector control supplies.
Over 100 fogging machines and the relevant supplies are to be deployed to aid in national efforts against diseases such as malaria and dengue.
The Vector Control Unit will spearhead this initiative, after having conducted significant training, and developed manuals to effectively utilise the equipment.
The unit will collaborate directly with regional health officers and their staff to implement these programmes nationwide.
The handing over ceremony took place at the Ministry’s Brickdam headquarters, where Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, noted that Neighborhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) would also participate in assisting communities with these tools.
“The equipment being showcased today represents a 646 million Guyana dollars investment… we are distributing the equipment to every region of our country and we are training the people in every region of our country, and we’ll be working with the NDCs, the municipalities.”
He highlighted that over the years, there has been a series of dengue cases, with
approximately 8,000 diagnosed in 2023 and about 11,000 in 2024.
Already, 62 cases have been diagnosed this year.
Dr Anthony expressed assurance that with proper implementation of these measures, there would be a significant reduction in mosquito populations and, consequently, in the number of cases diagnosed.
Additionally, a strategic approach will be employed in utilising these tools, targeting mosquitoes at various stages of their life cycle.
“And therefore, for this year, we don’t anticipate that, once we do this properly, that we’ll have too many mosquitoes and therefore we should see a significant drop in the cases that
we have been diagnosing, so that’s one aspect. And while we have been doing that, we have strengthened our laboratory capacity so we have test kits that are available in every region. We can do all the vector-borne infections, the tests for these diseases in every region. And we are going to continue to do that because we believe that, that is extremely important.”
In addition, different types of chemicals will be used to interrupt mosquitoes at both the adult and larval stages.
“We’re also using different types of chemicals that interrupt the mosquito at different parts of its life cycle. Some of this is for the adult mosquito. Others are when they are at the larval stage that we can also interrupt at that level,” he explained.
The larger-sized foggers will be mounted on vehicles and used to spray different communities. Meanwhile, the handheld types will be operated by personnel moving around and spraying specific areas.
The Minister emphasised the importance of staff using these devices careful-
A76-year-old resident from Friendship, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was arrested on Thursday evening after Police searched his home and found an unlicensed firearm in his bedroom.
Police, during an intelligence-led operation, contacted the pensioner at his residence, informed him of the reason for their presence and requested permission to conduct a search of his home for arms, ammunition, and drugs. According to Police, he did not object and allowed the ranks to enter and search.
During the search, Police
ly, as they can be hazardous. He noted that staff would be equipped with helmets, ear protection, and masks to prevent exposure to the mist being dispersed.
“We recognise that, if we are going to be using these types of machines, we have to equip the staff and properly attire them so that the things that they are sending out, the mist that would be going out, that they are not affected by that. And so, you see they have the helmets, they have the things for your ear. And more importantly, you have the mask because these masks are intended to prevent the person
who is spraying from getting sick.”
It was also mentioned that the Ministry has made test kits available in every region, enabling testing for all vector-borne infections.
Meanwhile Dr Vishwa Mahadeo, Director General of the Health Ministry, who was present at the ceremony, urged residents to take care of these items as the investment is not a cheap one.
“And bottom line is, it is the people who have got the benefit. This equipment will be handed over to you. Make sure that you utilise them properly, but more importantly, you take care of them. It is not chicken-feed money. There’s a lot of money that’s invested here. You have to take care of them,” he said.
Additionally, the national referral laboratory has been enhanced to perform more advanced tests, including sequencing for molecular surveillance, thereby improving the quality of diagnostics.
The Ministry has also built testing capacity at a national level. In fact, if there is any doubt about the status of a particular test, it can be sent to the national referral laboratory, where more advanced tests are conducted.
Apart from routine tests, the Health Ministry now has the ability to perform sequencing, which aids in molecular surveillance. This advancement significantly improves the quality of the Ministry’s work.
formed
found a Smith & Wesson PK380 firearm in the man’s bedroom, on a shelf next to his bed. Police asked him if he was a licensed firearm holder, to which he replied in the negative. He was in-
of the offence, cautioned and arrested. He was escorted to the Grove Police Station where he was placed into custody pending further investigations.
One of the machines
Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony holding one of the fogging machines
Director General of the Health Ministry, Dr Vishwa Mahadeo
The illegal gun that was found in the pensioner’s home
No reports of increased sexual assault, rape recorded in Amerindian villages – Sukhai
Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, has addressed concerns regarding reports of sexual violence in Amerindian communities, stating that there has been no recorded increase in cases of sexual assault or rape in these areas.
Sukhai’s remarks were made during her Ministry’s year-end press conference on Wednesday, where she clarified allegations circulating in the public domain.
“Very minimal reports come. I work those villages as much, as often as I can, and in every report that I conclude a visit, domestic violence, sexual abuse, incest and criminal activity have not been reported- and I am there as a Minister myself,” she told reporters.
“But my welfare department, whenever any such case comes up at our level, like teenage pregnancy, which obviously will be sexual abuse of a child, whether that comes up to us, we immediately collaborate with the Ministry of Human Services to ensure that that teenage mothers are provid-
ed the greatest of support,” she added.
Sukhai emphasised the importance of relying on verified data, and cautioned against spreading misinformation, which she noted could harm the reputation and well-being of Amerindian villages.
She reassured the public that her Ministry, in collaboration with law enforcement and community leaders, has been vigilant in monitoring and addressing issues of safety and security within these communities.
She also highlighted ongoing initiatives by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs to foster awareness and strengthen protection against sexual violence. These include community workshops, the establishment of support systems for victims, and partnerships with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) to promote education and advocacy.
Sukhai urged residents to report incidents of violence through proper channels, ensuring timely intervention and support for victims.
After 7 years on the run Herstelling murder suspect arrested
Amurder suspect, Rishiram Persaud, 35, a labourer from Farm/Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was arrested on Thursday evening by police in the area after being wanted for more than seven years in connection with the death of Balwan Ramsarran.
Ramsarran, a 41-yearold man, succumbed to injuries in April 2017 after he was severely beaten with a piece of wood during a rum shop altercation. The incident took place at approximately 17:30h on April 16, 2017, in the Herstelling Squatting Area.
Over a year later
Persaud was nabbed at about 19:10h on Thursday after police ranks acting on information received visited the area. Upon his arrest, he was informed of the offence and cautioned. Persaud admitted to assaulting Ramsarran, leading to his arrest and subsequent detention.
The police have confirmed that efforts are now underway to locate the relevant file for further legal proceedings.
On the day of the incident, Ramsarran was at a rum shop when he was confronted by a group of young men who regularly taunted him while he was intoxicated. Although Ramsarran resisted their attempts to bully him, an argument ensued. One of the men from the group left, only to return later with a piece of wood.
In the following moments, Ramsarran was struck multiple times with the wood by the assailant. He was left bleeding on the road. According to reports, Ramsarran’s teenage daughter rushed to the scene and transported her father to the Diamond Hospital. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital
(GPHC). Ramsarran, however, never regained consciousness and was declared brain dead shortly after being admitted. His sister, Parbattie Ramsarran, recalled the shocking sight of her brother’s condition, with injuries to his head, temple, stomach, and neck, as well as profuse bleeding from his nose and mouth. The family, deeply distressed, called for justice as they were aware that the assailant had a history of troublemaking in the area. Despite the manhunt, it took over seven years for Persaud to be apprehended.
Driver in fatal accident charged, released on bail
The driver involved in a fatal accident at the intersection of North Road and Camp Street, Georgetown, that claimed the life of 30-year-old Loyden Alexander Britton of Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara (EBD), has been charged and granted bail after over a year’s delay in the case.
The accident occurred on September 7, 2023, at about 01:10h.
Britton, who was riding motorcycle, CJ 4079, west along North Road, failed to stop at a red traffic light and collided with motorcar PNN 7200, which was driv-
en by 40-year-old Abayomi Hart.
Hart, a technician from Lot 1529, Farm EBD, was traveling south on Camp Street. The impact caused Britton to be flung a considerable distance, resulting in severe head and body injuries. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) but succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment.
After more than a year of delays, Hart appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to on Friday to answer to charges related to the fatal acci-
dent. Hart, who was unrepresented in court, pleaded not guilty to the charges. Magistrate Azore inquired why the case had taken so long to come before the court.
A police investigator ex-
plained that the case had been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice and only recently came back, with Hart being contacted on December 31, 2024. The prosecution raised
no objections to bail, and Magistrate Azore granted Hart bail in the sum of $250,000. Hart’s next court
appearance is scheduled for February 7, 2025, for the submission of a statement. (G9)
Dead: Loyden Alexander Britton
The bike Loyden Britton was ridding at the time of the accident
Charged: Abayomi Hart
Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai
Captured: Rishiram Persaud
Dead: Balwan Ramsarran
Grenada, Barbados among C’bean countries requesting Guyana’s help in training teachers
With significant successes from the Education’ Ministry’s online training programme for teachers, several countries with-
in the region have expressed an interest in working with Guyana to have their educators similarly benefit from the initiative.
Last year, the Cyril
Potter College of Education (CPCE) rolled out its online training programme for teachers in hinterland communities. Utilising platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams, CPCE succeeded in bringing high-quality instruction directly to educators who are unable to physically attend classes.
With the positive results seen from the initiative education Minister Priya Manickchand highlighted that several Caribbean countries have reached out for guidance to implement their own online learning programmes.
“I’d be happy to tell you that because we’re online, we have been approached by at least two Caribbean countries, colleagues who have
Health Ministry prepared for any possible case of HMPV in Guyana ...says health officials monitoring the situation
As concerns grow around the world about Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony revealed that there are no recorded cases of HMPV in Guyana and the Health Ministry is well geared to deal with any possible cases of the virus, after dealing with similar strains of the virus before.
He made this disclosure Friday, during an interview with the Guyana Times
According to Dr Anthony, health officials in Guyana have been monitoring the situation, and so far, no cases have been identified.
“We have been checking. We haven’t had any cases here, and the region has the capability of being able to diagnose. In fact, this is not a new thing,” he stated.
Dr Anthony clarified that HMPV is not a new pathogen and that there is no cause for alarm, as the virus has been around for many years.
“This is something that has been around for many years, and looking at the disease profile, it is not one where you have a high fatality rate. So, it’s not a new disease; it’s something that has been around and in existence. It’s not a new pathogen,” he explained.
There has been a nearby strain of the virus, and Guyana has successfully managed similar diseases in the past.
“We have had cases of, let’s say, a cousin of this particular disease, which is RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus), and we have been able to manage them quite successfully. So, we don’t anticipate a challenge, but since we have seen whatever is going on globally, we have ensured that we can collect samples and send those samples for diagno-
sis,” he said.
Dr Anthony assured that the country is prepared to address any cases of HMPV, should they arise.
When asked if Guyana is currently screening for HMPV at ports of entry, Dr Anthony indicated that measures are not in place due to the virus presenting flu-like symptoms.
“This is something that, because you’ll get flu-like symptoms, we haven’t put those measures in place. But if people get sick and they come into one of our facilities, or they come for a test, we’ll obviously be able to take that sample and then be able to make the diagnosis,” he stated.
He added that, this approach aligns with global practices in dealing with infectious diseases, noting that many variants of such diseases will continue to emerge.
“And that’s what everybody else is doing. With infectious diseases, one of the things you will see happening is that many more of these things will come to the fore. What is important is that you have a system where you are prepared to manage them,” he explained.
In Guyana, the Health Ministry has done significant work to manage viral diseases. This year, the Ministry aims to expand its efforts, having received US$15 million from the Pandemic Fund to strengthen its surveillance and laboratory systems. These funds will also support the recruitment of more specialists in the Ministry of Health.
This initiative, expected to begin in March and span three years, will enhance the country’s preparedness for viral diseases.
Dr Anthony emphasised that, the approach is not limited to a single disease but aims to bolster systems for detecting and addressing any viruses that may jump from animal populations to humans.
“This would help us to enhance the system so that if there’s anything in the animal population that jumps into the human population, we’ll be able to detect it and have a stronger approach to viruses in the human population,” he explained.
Last year, the Ministry worked closely with Pan American Health Organisation and the World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) to establish eight sites across Guyana to monitor influenza viruses. For the first time, Guyana was able to identify the types of influenza viruses circulating within the country, marking a significant milestone in viral disease management.
The HMPV is a respiratory disease that causes flu or cold-like symptoms, but can increase risks or lead to more serious complications like bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among the elderly, young children, and the immunocompromised.
asked about how they could bet their teachers, much smaller numbers than ours, could benefit from this online training that we have, and that is something we’re currently exploring with them.”
On this point the Minister noted that these engagements were done at the surface level. The Minister added that before the programme is implemented, several areas must be looked at to increase its efficiency.
“Let me just say very clearly, those conversations were not advanced far, they were initially into… I wonder if this is something we can benefit from and it’s an online programme so we would have to work out how teaching practice is done in those countries if we were to use this”
Meanwhile, in light of the
success of the CPCE online programme, the University of Guyana (UG) was tasked with following suit.
“So, we also asked the University of Guyana to take their programme online. By their programme, I mean their degree programme, and so there is no need for teachers to ask for leave, to exit before all the teachers would know that only two or three of them could go to UG at any given point.”
The Education Minister added.” That now means that we’re not stopping anybody. We have created the environment where we’re promoting people’s learning, and once you get a degree, you have all kinds of other benefits.”
Meanwhile, the CPCE began offering online training programmes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The online programmes expanded the college’s capacity to train teachers and provided more opportunities for people who might not have been able to attend in-person classes.
Programmes at CPCE Associate’s Degree in Education: A two-year programme with specialisations in early childhood, primary, or secondary education
Trained Teacher’s Certificate: A three-year programme Teaching Children English Online Course: An on-demand video course with articles, a downloadable resource, and a certificate of completion
Teacher Upgrading Programme: A programme for teachers who have already completed some training
Woman jailed, fined for cocaine-possession
A36-year-old resident of Charlotte Street, Georgetown, and a mother of three, was sentenced to 24 months in prison and fined $30,000 on Friday after pleading guilty to possession of cocaine. Attie Trotz appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
The charge stemmed from an incident on January 8, when police conducted a search at a property in Charlotte Street, Georgetown. Officers encountered Trotz during the search, and a quantity of cocaine was found in her handbag.
The substance, later tested and confirmed to be cocaine, weighed at 29.5 grams. Trotz was subsequently arrested and taken to the Alberttown Police Station.
In court, Trotz admitted to the offence. Magistrate Azore informed her that maintaining her guilty plea could result in a sentence of
Charged: Attie Trotz
nearly three years in prison. Trotz, however, opted to persist with her plea, expressing remorse for her actions. The Magistrate then handed down the sentence of 24 months imprisonment along with the monetary fine of $30,000.
The prosecution had informed the court on Friday that based on their records, Trotz had no prior charges. However, a review of court records revealed that in March 2021, Trotz appeared before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly to answer to a charge of breaking and entering.
In that matter, it was alleged that between March 5 and 6, 2021, on South Road, Bourda, Georgetown, Trotz, along with others, broke into a store and stole 72 glass mugs valued at $144,000. Trotz had pleaded not guilty and was placed on $50,000 bail. However, she was unable to raise the bail and was remanded to the New Amsterdam Prison in April 2021 and was later released.
Education Minister Priya Manickchand
Last year’s CPCE graduation exercise (File photo)
Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony
US$25M reward for arrest of Venezuela’s Maduro – US announces
The US has announced an increased US$25m (£20.4m) reward for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on the day he was sworn in for a third six-year term in office.
The inauguration ceremony was overshadowed by recrimination from the international community and Venezuelan opposition leaders.
Rewards have also been offered for information leading to the arrest and or conviction of Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello. A new reward of up to $15m for Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino has also been of-
fered.
The UK also issued sanctions on 15 top Venezuelan officials, including judges, members of the security forces and military officials. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said those sanctioned were responsible for “undermining democracy, the rule of law, and human rights violations”.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy went on to describe Maduro’s regime as “fraudulent”.
Also on Friday, the EU said it was extending “restrictive measures” against Venezuela because of “the lack of progress… leading to the restoration of democracy and the rule of law”. The bloc also sanctioned a further 15
fulfil it,” he added.
Biden extends temporary protections for more than 800,000 immigrants
The Biden administration on Friday extended temporary humanitarian protections for about 230,000 Salvadorans and 600,000 Venezuelans living in the US, in an effort to shield those groups from an incoming Trump administration that has promised to deport them.
The decision in the dying days of Joe Biden’s presidency came after immigrant advocates and lawmakers urged the Department of Homeland Security to extend temporary protected status (TPS), designed to protect immigrants from being deported to countries that are engulfed in disaster or conflict.
DHS cited environmental conditions in El Salvador – which in recent times has been hit by a series of extreme weather events – which “prevent individuals from returning” to the country. The agency extended protections for Venezuelans “based on the
severe humanitarian emergency the country continues to face due to political and economic crises”, the department said.
The announcement came as Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro was sworn in for a third term in Caracas, despite widespread domestic and international condemnation over his alleged engineering of a fraudulent election victory and his leading the country in an increasingly repressive direction since he took office in 2013.
The US announced a $65m bounty for Maduro’s arrest and the arrests of two close allies on international drug-trafficking charges, and rejected Maduro’s claim to the presidency.
About a million immigrants from 17 countries are protected by TPS, including people from Venezuela, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Afghanistan, Sudan and Lebanon. Salvadorans are one of the
largest beneficiaries, having won TPS in 2001 after earthquakes rocked the Central American country.
The TPS designation gives people legal authority to be in the country but doesn’t provide a long-term path to citizenship. People with TPS are reliant on the government renewing their status when it expires.
Donald Trump and JD Vance, his vice-president-elect, suggested during their election campaign that they would scale back the use of TPS and policies granting temporary status as they pursued a campaign pledge of mass deportations. During his first administration, Trump ended TPS for El Salvador, but the process was held up in court.
Advocates have stepped up pressure on Biden to ask for TPS extensions for those who already have it, and to protect people from some other countries, including Guatemala and Ecuador.
(The Guardian)
Maduro and his government have repeatedly denounced many of the allegations made by Western countries and opposition leaders. He has not yet commented on the most recent set of sanctions against him.
On Friday, President Maduro took the oath before parliament, vowing his third six-year term in office would be a “period of peace”.
“This new presidential term will be the period of peace, prosperity, equality, and the new democracy,” he said. “I swear by history, I swear by my life, and I will
The 28 July election results were widely rejected by the international community, including by Brazil and Colombia, some of Venezuela’s left-wing neighbours.
The inauguration itself was a tightly controlled affair. Most accredited Venezuelan media were not allowed inside and foreign journalists were not allowed in the country. Maduro has a few allies remaining including Iran, China and Russia but is increasingly isolated on the world stage.
The Cuban and
Nicaraguan presidents were the only leaders present at the inauguration.
The 62-year-old was declared the winner of last July’s presidential election but the opposition and many countries, including the US, rejected the result and recognised the exiled opposition candidate Edmundo González as the legitimate president-elect.
González fled Venezuela in September and has been living in Spain, but this month he went on a tour of the Americas to rally international support.
The Maduro government has issued an arrest warrant for him, offering a $100,000 (£81,755) reward for information leading to his detention.
It comes as Maduro was declared the winner of July’s presidential election by Venezuela’s National Electoral Council (CNE), which is closely aligned with the government.
Machado, whom González replaced on the ballot after she was barred from running herself, has also been targeted. She went into hiding soon after the disputed elections, and was last seen in public in August before Thursday’s rally. (BBC)
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro
More than 500 asylum seekers, mostly Venezuelans, in Eagle Pass, Texas, in September 2023
(Photograph: John Moore/Getty Images )
Venezuelan officials.
Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro sworn-in for third presidential term as opposition decries ‘coup’
Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro has been sworn in for a third presidential term in what the country’s opposition movement has decried as “coup d’etat”, culminating more than five months of dispute over last summer’s contested election.
The ceremony took place on Friday in a small room of the National Assembly, a marked difference from previous ceremonies held in the building’s main hall.
Maduro was sworn in by National Assembly leader Jorge Rodríguez, who placed the presidential sash on him, prompting thunderous applause from those in attendance. “We’ve achieved what we knew we would achieve,” Maduro said during his first speech after bein?g sworn in.
“The power given to me was not given by a foreign government, a foreign president or a gringo government,” Maduro said at the event, which saw Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega and Cuba’s Miguel Diaz-Canel in attendance. “No one in this world can impose a president in Venezuela.”
China and Russia also sent representatives, with Russia’s State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin seen arriving late on a state media broadcast after the ceremony began ahead of schedule.
Maduro was proclaimed winner of the country’s presidential election on July 28, by electoral authorities under the tight control of the ruling Socialist Party.
But Venezuela’s opposition has published thousands of voting tallies claiming that their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, had actually won the vote with 67% against Maduro’s 30%.
Independent observers such as the Carter Center and the Colombian Electoral Mission, as well as CNN’s own analysis, have found the opposition tallies to be legitimate. And several nations, including the United States, have since recognized Gonzalez as Venezuela’s rightful president-elect. And in a speech Friday afternoon, opposition leader Maria Corina Machado remained defiant, accusing Maduro’s government of trampling on Venezuela’s constitution. Going forward, “the pressure will increase even more until Maduro understands that this is over,” she pledged.
Maduro “violates the constitution, also flanked by the dictators of Cuba and Nicaragua, this says it all,” she added.
White House National Security Council spokesman
John Kirby accused Maduro of “a complete disregard for democratic norms,” describing Friday’s swearing in as “an illegitimate inauguration” in remarks to reporters.
González, who has been in exile since September with a bounty on his head by Venezuelan authorities, had pledged to return to Caracas this week in a potential last challenge to Maduro’s inauguration. But his planned return on Friday was called off due to security concerns, Paraguayan President Santiago Peña told CNN’s Isa Soares.
“I continue to work on the conditions for my entry into Venezuela and assume, as mandated by the Constitution and ordered by the people, the presidency of the republic and as commander in chief of the national armed forces,” González said in a statement Friday.
González’s last known location on Friday was the Dominican Republic, where he had recently met with regional leaders.
Criticism and new sanctions
Shortly after the inauguration, the US announced an 18-month extension of Temporary Protected Status for eligible Venezuelan nationals, and new rewards for information leading to the arrest of Maduro and his closest officials, including Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello.
The rewards for Maduro and for Cabello — now amounting to $25 million each — are the maximum rewards allowed under the State Department’s narcotics reward program, an official said.
The US also announced new visa restrictions for Maduro-aligned officials whom the administration says are responsible for undermining Venezuela’s electoral process, and individual sanctions on eight Maduroaligned officials overseeing economic and security agencies in Venezuela, including a state-owned oil company and Maduro’s transportation minister.
On a call previewing the announcement, the official told reporters that Maduro, “stands mostly alone at this juncture, with few friends in the region and the world,” noting calls from countries throughout the region and across the globe “since July 28th to call on Maduro to respect democratic norms.”
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom on Friday sanctioned 15 people associated with Maduro and what it called his “contested regime,” including leaders from Venezuela’s Armed
Forces and members of the Supreme Justice Tribunal.
The European Union also issued sanctions against 15 people affiliated with Maduro, who have been accused of “undermining democracy, rule of law or human rights in Venezuela.” And Canada sanctioned 14 current and former senior officials who it said engaged in activities that “supported human rights violations” in the country.
The G7 also criticized the inauguration, saying it lacked democratic legitimacy. “We reject Maduro’s continued and repressive grasp at power at the expense of the Venezuelan people,” a statement from the group read.
Maduro did not name any of Venezuela’s opposition leaders in his speech, but referred to the movement currently led by Maria Corina Machado and Edmundo Gonzalez as “Guaidó 2.0” — a reference to Juan Guaidó, who in 2019 proclaimed himself interim president of Venezuela and was recognized by 50 countries, including the US.
“A Guaidó 2.0 talks to the people in the streets, a new Guaidó, and comes with the same baggage, we saw it, we saw their plans, we saw them yesterday,” Maduro said, apparently referring to an opposition rally attended by Machado on Thursday.
Guaidó also condemned the inauguration, writing on X that “the president of Venezuela is Edmundo González Urrutia.”
“Maduro only confirms his usurpation and the coup d’état they carried out on July 28,” Guaidó added. Venezuelan opposition coalition Plataforma de la Unidad Democrática echoed Guaidó’s remarks, saying, “a new phase begins today in this fight for the freedom of Venezuela throughout the national territory and in all sectors that form our nation.”
And Human Rights Watch Americas director Juanita Goebertus criticized Maduro’s swearing as “the culmination of an election that blatantly disregarded the people’s will and consolidates a dictatorship only sustained by brutal repression.”
Ahead of the inauguration, Venezuela closed its land border and suspended flights to Colombia – a move that Freddie Bernal, the governor of the Venezuelan border state of Tachira claimed was in reaction to a “international conspiracy” against Venezuela in an Instagram post. He did not provide proof for his claim.
(Excerpted from CNN)
Brazil gives Meta 72 hours to explain changes to fact-checking program
Brazil's government will give Meta until Monday to explain the program, Solicitor General Jorge Messias said on Friday.
The move comes after the social media company scrapped its U.S. fact-checking program and reduced curbs on discussions around topics such as immigration and gender identity.
It is not immediately clear exactly what will happen after the deadline expires.
“I'd like to express the Brazilian government's enormous concern about the policy adopted by the Meta company, which is like an airport windsock, changing its position all the time according to the winds," Messias, the government's top lawyer, told re-
porters in Brasilia.
"Brazilian society will not be at the mercy of this kind of policy,” Messias added.
On Thursday, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said the changes were "extremely serious" and announced he had to discuss the topic.
Meta did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
In announcing the move on Tuesday, CEO Mark Zuckerberg cited "too many mistakes and too much censorship". A spokesperson said on Tuesday that, for now, Meta was planning the changes only for the U.S. market.
(Reuters)
Canada imposes sanctions on 14 Venezuelan officials
Canada on Friday imposed sanctions on 14 current and former senior officials of the Venezuelan government, alleging that they had engaged in activities that have supported human rights violations in Venezuela.
The sanctions coincide with measures taken by Canada's allies including the United States and United Kingdom, and "demonstrate a mes-
sage of solidarity with the Venezuelan people," the Canadian foreign ministry said in a statement.
The Venezuelan communications ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Friday's new and expanded sanctions from countries including the United States and Britain.
President Nicolas Maduro, who was sworn in for a third term on Friday,
and his government have always rejected sanctions by the United States and others, saying they are illegitimate measures that amount to an "economic war" designed to cripple Venezuela. Maduro and his allies have cheered what they say is the country’s resilience despite the measures, though they have historically blamed some economic hardships and shortages on sanctions. (Reuters)
T&T attorney, husband killed in suspected home invasion
The country recorded its first double murder for the year when a 60-year-old attorney and her 67-year-old husband were found dead, bound and gagged, in their Cumuto home on the night of January 9 after what po-
lice believe to be a home invasion.
They have been identified as Kumari Baksh and Nasheed Baksh, a law clerk.
Police said the house was ransacked, but were unable to say what was taken from the couple’s home.
On January 9, murdered attorney Randall Hector’s funeral took place. Hector, 43, was shot dead on December 31, after leaving an Old Year’s Night service at the Stanmore Avenue Seventh-Day Adventist Church. (T&T Newsday)
Supporters of Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro cheer as he is being sworn-in for a third sixyear term in Caracas, Venezuela January 10, 2025 (Reuters/Maxwell Briceno)
US hits Russian oil with toughest sanctions yet in bid to give Ukraine, Trump leverage
UTrump avoids prison or fine in hush-money case sentencing
Ajudge has sentenced US President-elect Donald Trump to an "unconditional discharge," bringing to an end the first criminal trial of a former US president.
The sentence in the hush-money payment case means the incoming president has been spared any penalty, including jail time or a fine, but he will still take office as the first US president with a felony conviction.
gal saga that Trump had uttered more than a "not guilty" or given a brief affirmative answer.
Granted the chance to speak ahead of his sentencing, Trump railed against the case for several minutes.
"This has been a very terrible experience," he said.
.S. President Joe Biden's administration imposed its broadest package of sanctions so far targeting Russia's oil and gas revenues on Friday, in an effort to give Kyiv and Donald Trump's incoming team leverage to reach a deal for peace in Ukraine.
The move is meant to cut Russia's revenues for continuing the war in Ukraine that has killed more than 12,300 civilians and reduced cities to rubble since Moscow invaded in February, 2022.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in a post on X that the measures announced on Friday will "deliver a significant blow" to Moscow. "The less revenue Russia earns from oil ... the sooner peace will be restored," Zelenskiy added.
Daleep Singh, a top White House economic and national security adviser, said in a statement that the measures were the "most significant sanctions yet on Russia’s energy sector, by far the largest source of revenue for (President Vladimir) Putin’s war".
The U.S. Treasury imposed sanctions on Gazprom Neft (SIBN.MM), opens new tab and Surgutneftegas, which explore for, produce and sell oil as well as 183 vessels that have shipped Russian oil, many of which are in the so-called shadow fleet of aging tankers operated by non-Western companies. The sanctions also include networks that trade the petroleum.
Many of those tankers have been used to ship oil to India and China as a price cap imposed by the Group of Seven countries in 2022 has shifted trade in Russian oil from Europe to Asia. Some tankers have shipped both Russian and Iranian oil.
The Treasury also rescinded a provision that had exempted the intermediation of energy payments from sanctions on Russian banks.
The sanctions should cost Russia billions of dollars per month if sufficiently enforced, another U.S. official told reporters in a call.
"There is not a step in the production and distribution chain that's untouched and that gives us greater confidence that evasion is going to be even more costly for Russia," the official said. (Reuters)
South Africa police find 26 naked Ethiopians held by suspected traffickers
South African po-
lice have rescued 26 Ethiopians from a suspected human trafficking ring in Johannesburg after the group broke a window and burglar bar to escape from a house where they were being held naked.
Three people were arrested on suspicion of people trafficking and possessing an illegal firearm on Thursday night after neighbours in the Sandringham suburb heard the commotion and tipped off the police, the Hawks serious crime unit said in a statement. Police urged the public to report any other escaped naked people in the area.
About 60 Ethiopian men were held captive in the bungalow, the local TV station eNCA reported, showing what appeared to be blood spattered below an
open window at the front of the house. Police said 11 people were taken to hospital for medical treatment. A number of the Ethiopians have still not been picked up by police.
“The signs that we have is this is a human trafficking matter, because they were actually escaping from that house and they were kept naked, almost as if it’s a modus operandi to keep them humiliated and not trying to escape,” said Philani Nkwalase, a police spokesperson.
South Africa has attracted immigrants from across Africa since the end of apartheid more than three decades ago. However, fears that they are smuggling drugs and driving up unemployment and violent crime have fuelled persistent xenophobia. (The Guardian)
"Never before has this court been presented with such a unique and remarkable set of circumstances," Justice Juan Merchan said shortly before announcing the sentence, calling it a "truly extraordinary case".
Appearing via video call from Florida and flanked by his attorney and two prominent American flags, Trump declared he was "totally innocent".
It was the first time in this year-and-half long le-
He claimed there had been a "weaponisation" of the judicial system and claimed the case was brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg for political reasons.
"I would like to explain that I was treated very, very unfairly, and I thank you very much," he said, before falling silent.
As Bragg watched Trump address him directly for the first time, he maintained a mostly stoic expression. He did, however, chuckle when Trump claimed Bragg had never wanted to bring the case.
After Trump had his say, Justice Merchan then took several moments to reflect on the "paradox" of the trial.
Justice Merchan noted that despite the media and political circus outside, "once the courtroom doors were closed, it was no more unique than all the other cases taking place at the same time".
But he added that after Trump was convicted, the case took another turn
when the American people elected him in November to a second presidential term. After careful consideration, he had determined that "the only lawful sentence, without encroaching upon the highest office of the land", was unconditional discharge - a sentence that would allow the American people a president unencumbered by pending court proceedings. (BBC)
Gaza death toll 40% higher than official number, Lancet study finds
Research published in the Lancet medical journal estimates that the death toll in Gaza during the first nine months of the Israel-Hamas war was about 40% higher than numbers recorded by the Palestinian territory’s health ministry.
The peer-reviewed statistical analysis was conducted by academics at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Yale University and other institutions, using a statistical method called capture-recapture analysis.
The researchers sought to assess the death toll from
Israel’s air and ground campaign in Gaza between October 2023 and the end of June 2024, estimating 64,260 deaths due to traumatic injury during this period. The study said 59.1% were women, children and people over the age of 65. It did not provide an estimate of Palestinian combatants among the dead.
Up to 30 June last year, the health ministry in Gaza reported a death toll of 37,877 in the war, which began on 7 October 2023 after the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel in which 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 taken hostag-
es. According to Palestinian health officials, a total of more than 46,000 people have been killed in the Gaza war, from a prewar population of about 2.3 million.
It has not been possible for international media to independently verify the death toll in Gaza as Israel does not allow foreign journalists into the territory.
A senior Israeli official, commenting on the study published on Friday, said Israel’s armed forces went to great lengths to avoid civilian casualties. “No other army in the world has ever taken such wide-ranging
measures,” the official said.
“These include providing advance warning to civilians to evacuate, safe zones and taking any and all measures to prevent harm to civilians. The figures provided in this report do not reflect the situation on the ground.”
The Lancet study said the Palestinian health ministry’s capacity for maintaining electronic death records had previously proven reliable, but deteriorated under Israel’s military campaign, which has included raids on hospitals and other healthcare facilities and disruptions to digital communications. (The Guardian)
Death toll doubled to 10 as arson arrest made after new Kenneth wildfire erupts
The death toll from the Los Angeles wildfires rose to ten as a suspected arsonist was arrested after a new fast-moving blaze erupted threatening more celebrity homes.
The fast-moving Kenneth Fire started in the late afternoon in the San Fernando Valley near the West Hills neighbourhood and close to Ventura County as an urgent evacuation order was issued. The blaze burned near the affluent suburbs of Calabasas and Hidden Hills - home to celebrities like the Kardashians.
"We are expecting this fire to rapidly spread due to high winds," Los Angeles may-
or Karen Bass said as winds strengthened into Friday morning.
A number of citizens detained a suspect in the West Valley area, close to where the flames are burning from the latest blaze, amid reports they were carrying a “propane tank” or “flamethrower”.
Investigators with the Los Angeles Police Department are looking into whether that individual was responsible for starting the fire, according to reports. There was hope of respite from the fires later on Friday, as winds quietened down, officials said - but this may only last until Sunday.
Meteorologist Rich
Donald Trump and his lawyer Todd Blanche (left) appeared virtually from Florida for his sentencing in his Manhattan hush money case
Thompson said: “We're looking for a little respite on Friday and Saturday from the Santa Ana winds but then they're going to pick up again Sunday through most of next week.”
Efforts
Get motivated and moving. Look for better opportunities and a chance to connect with people heading in a similar direction. Refuse to let what others say deter you from following your dreams.
If it’s a change or a diversion you want, make it happen. Procrastinating isn’t going to fulfill your dreams, but acting on your gut feelings will help you surpass your expectations.
Be careful when sharing information. Gossip will lead to trouble. Concentrate on learning, self-improvement and getting involved in something exciting.
Set standards and priorities, and turn your vision into a reality. Be creative and use persuasive tactics to convince others to help you build something unique.
Keep the momentum flowing and your eye on what you want to achieve. You’ll gain ground if you participate in an event that offers insight into how you can make a difference.
You’ll be drawn in too many directions. Choose what’s most relevant to you or your circumstances and channel your energy directly into getting the results that satisfy your needs.
Mental stimulation will help change your perspective, allowing you to try new things, meet exciting people and build a foundation. Be a leader; take the path that beckons you, and you’ll gain confidence.
You can stabilize your domestic situation by living up to your promises. Think outside the box and work on self-improvement and pleasing the ones you love.
Simplify your life, minimize your expenditures and give yourself time to think before you act. Don’t venture into situations or places that pose a health risk.
Step up, make a move, do your thing and reap the rewards. Refuse to back down or let anyone get in your way. Use your charm to carry you to the top of your game.
Refuse to let changes in your community disrupt your day or decisions. Stick close to home and avoid places that present health or safety risks. Ask pertinent questions before donating to a cause that concerns you.
Venture out into your community. New connections will lead to exciting adventures and new possibilities, allowing you to use your time, skills and experience to raise your profile and earning potential.
Fantastic basketball action expected at Linden’s Retrieve Hard Court tonight
The “One Guyana” Basketball League being supervised by the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) continues today (Saturday) at the Retrieve Hard Court in Wismar, Linden; and excitement is anticipated from the first game, which is scheduled to commence at 19:00hrs.
In this evening’s play, Black Caimans would be taking on the Victory Valley Royals, who expectedly would be looking to secure their second win of the league. However, with a slim chance of advancing from the group stage, the Caimans would be aiming to secure their first win after five games.
Coming off a win in their previous match, North Ruimveldt Ravens, as defending champions, would be intent on continuing their campaign as they battle Retrieve Raiders; who also are coming off a previous victory, and would be having home-court advantage.
This “One Guyana” league commenced with 27 teams in the Harpy Eagle and
Jaguar Conferences. Between 56 and 63 games were projected to be played in the league, with teams being expected to play teams from their conference twice, and the top four teams qualifying for the playoffs.
The number one-ranked team is expected to play the fourth-ranked team, and the number two team is expect-
ed to play the third-ranked team. Winners of the playoff games would then advance to their conference finals, where the winners of the best two of three games would advance to the National Finals.
The team winning the league would receive $1 million along with trophies, while the runners-up would receive $500,000 plus trophies.
ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025…
Windies aiming for strong start in competitive Group A
The West Indies Under-19 Women’s team enter the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia with high hopes of advancing beyond the Super Six stage -- a feat they narrowly missed in the tournament’s inaugural edition in 2023. They begin their cam-
CFU next Generation Class of 2025 to
be held from January 17-19
Twenty-two match officials, representing 15 Member Associations, are gearing up to participate in the 2025 edition of the CFU Next Generation Refereeing Course, which would be held from January 17-19 at the Barbados Football Association (BFA).
Launched in 2022, the initiative, supported by CONCACAF, provides Caribbean match officials with the prerequisites to matriculate to the FIFA Refereeing International Lists. The course equips participants with theoretical and practical skills, ultimately leading to nominations to the FIFA rank.
Dave Meikle, a CFU Referee Committee member and Next Gen administrator, is supported by a team of instructors comprising FIFA Fitness Refereeing Instructor and CFU Referee Committee Member Kelesha Antoine, FIFA Technical Instructor Dianne Ferreira-James, Instructor Victor Stewart, CONCACAF Technical Instructor Ishan Philip, and CONCACAF Fitness Instructor Rohan Thobourne.
FIFA match officials and World Cup candidates Odette Hamilton (Jamaica) and Crystal Sobers (Trinidad and Tobago) are mentors.
Over the three days of the course, match officials would be undergoing intense on-field and classroom training before being subjected to online training, with the instructors designing a bespoke programme for the cohort, monitoring their progress,
and providing mentorship.
Next Gen students may also receive appointments to competitions such as the CFU Girls U-14 Challenge Series slated for the summer. The in-person programme would then continue with more practical and technical training.
Victor Moore, BFA head of refereeing, has said BFA is delighted to host the 2025 programme. “We look forward to the 2025 edition with high expectations,” he declared.
“We are pleased to be represented, along with other young, emerging, talented match officials, as part of this distinguished gathering with top referee tutors. Referee education and physical development are critical to meeting the CFU and CONCACAF objective of having a panel of match officials present at every FIFArecognised tournament, including the World Cup. The high success of previous Next Gen Courses indicates that the programme has the potential to achieve the CFU’s desired expectations,” Mr. Moore has added.
The Next Gen Initiative is an impacting and pivotal programme for the CFU. Eight students debuted on the 2025 FIFA International Refereeing List: McManaman Bedeau (GRN), Cleon Cully (BRB), Jonathon Hughes (CAY), Evens Julims (BAH), Edson Lieveld (SUR), Jaselle Louison (BRB), Amaury Majors (BER), and James Ramprasha (BVI); and Randolph Harris, pres-
ident of the CFU and the BFA, has hailed the success of the programme.
“We have seen the tangible benefits of Next Gen, with our Caribbean referees getting match appointments, moving on to the CONCACAF Academy, and dozens advancing to the ranks of FIFA all in a few short years. Intangibly, we have, for aspiring Caribbean match officials, examples of the development and growth of people from within their spheres, and they know that there is a pathway for them to advance their careers,” he added.
“Success of the programme is due to a collaborative approach between the CFU and CONCACAF, and the support of the Member Associations, and we are grateful to all of the partners,” Harris has said.
Participants: Kevahn Hawley (Anguilla), Shemroy Alie (Antigua and Barbuda), Portia Davis (Antigua and Barbuda), Kai Jacob (Barbados), Darren Scantlebury (Barbados), Guillaume Parkins (British Virgin Islands), Steven Wellington (Cayman Islands), Michaël Kirindongo (Curaçao), Vernent Joseph (Dominica), Jessica Pierre-Louis (Dominica), Leon Hazzard (Grenada), Jordan Chaibriant (Guadeloupe), Sherwin Alli (Guyana), Kesla Anderson (Jamaica), Shaquaine Baugh (Jamaica), Yusuf Saunders (Saint Kitts and Nevis), Jody Walters (Saint Kitts and Nevis), Mozakie King (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines), Rodney Blinker (Suriname), Rabia Blinker (Suriname), Akil Weekes (Trinidad and Tobago), N'neeka Harewood (Trinidad and Tobago).
West Indies’ U19 Women
paign with a tough opener against defending champions India on January 19 at Bayeumas Oval in Pandamaran, where all Group ‘A’ matches would be played. Led by 17-yearold all-rounder Samara Ramnath, the West Indies squad boasts a mix of youthful energy and valuable experience.
Having spent her summer as part of the Trinbago Knight Riders squad in the Women’s Caribbean Premier League, Ramnath is keen to make an impact, both as a leader and as a player. Her vice-captain is Asabi Callender, one of three players returning for their second ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup. Medium-fast bowler Jahzara Claxton, a St Kitts and Nevis footballer-turned-cricketer, and all-rounder Naijanni Cumberbatch are the other returning players. Their experience would be crucial in navigating the challenges of a competitive group, in which India, Sri Lanka, and hosts Malaysia are included.
The West Indies showed promise in South Africa in 2023 when they finished second in their group with wins over Ireland and Indonesia. However, losses to Rwanda and England in the Super Six stage derailed their hopes of reaching the semifinals. This time they aim to build on that foundation and secure a deeper run in the tournament.
The Caribbean side would need to hit the ground running in order to secure a spot in the knockout rounds and build momentum towards a successful campaign.
Team Head Coach, Jamaican Robert Samuels, in expressing pride in their preparation, has said, “Our young players have shown tremendous dedication and improvement during their preparation. We are confident that they will represent the West Indies with pride, and demonstrate the bright future of women's cricket in our region.”
After their opening
clash with India, the West Indies would face Sri Lanka on January 21, before closing the group stage against Malaysia on January 23.
Defending champions India are the team to beat in Group A. Gongadi Trisha, Shabnam Shakil and Sonam Yadav are returning from the victorious 2023 squad, and they bring a wealth of experience. Trisha, who topped the run charts in the recent Asia Cup, would be heading a strong batting lineup, alongside G Kamalini and captain Niki Prasad.
India’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Shakil, Yadav and Asia Cup top wicket-taker Aayushi Shukla, is equally formidable.
Like the West Indies, Sri Lanka enter the tournament aiming to surpass their Super Six finish from 2023. Prodigious bowler Chamodi Praboda and captain Manudi Nanayakkara would be key players in this regard.
Nanayakkara’s explosive batting, highlighted by her unbeaten 74 off 40 balls against Malaysia, adds firepower to a middle order that also features Limansa Thilakarathna and Sumudu Nisansala.
The Sri Lankans are eager for redemption after a narrow loss to India in the Asia Cup semi-finals, and their clash with the West Indies on January 21 promises to be a pivotal encounter.
Hosts Malaysia, making their ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup debut, would be hoping to acquit themselves well on home soil.
Captain Nur Dania Syuhada would be leading a team that is fresh from participating in the U19 Women’s T20 Asia Cup; and while inexperience at this level would pose challenges, Malaysia would be relying on Syuhada’s all-round skills and partnership with wicketkeeper-batter Nur Aliya Binti Mohd Hairun to create opportunities for an upset.
(Adapted from Sportsmax)
Dominic Vincente would be looking to lead Ravens to another win
The CFU Next Generation Class of 2025 will be hosted in Barbados next week
Schedule of West Indies Championship 2025 confirmed
– Several innovations revealed
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has said it is pleased to announce the schedule for the West Indies Championship 2025, in which the eight-team format introduced in 2024 is continued.
There will be several innovations in the upcoming edition of the West Indies Championship, including the return of first innings’ points in drawn matches, the use of Kookaburra balls for two rounds, and at least one pink ball day/night fixture per team.
Teams will be battling for the prestigious HeadleyWeekes Trophy and an attractive prize purse of US$250,000 for the champions and US$100,000 for the runners-up.
Miles Bascombe, Cricket West Indies’ Director of Cricket, has said, “The return of the West Indies Championship is a crucial pillar in our cricket development pathway. Having eight teams competing across the region reinforces our commitment to first-class cricket, which remains the foundation for developing Test cricketers.
“This year, we have introduced several initiatives geared at broadening the experience of our regional players by exposing them to many of the challenges they would otherwise only experience on tour. We are happy to be taking the championships around the region again, ensuring that players are tested in the various conditions our region serves up. This can only add to the resilience needed by our players to excel at the international level.”
Teams competing over the seven rounds of matches are: defending champions Guyana Harpy Eagles, Barbados
Pride, Combined Campuses & Colleges, Jamaica Scorpions, Leeward Islands Hurricanes, Trinidad & Tobago Red Force, West Indies Academy, and Windward Islands Volcanoes.
Both the West Indies Academy and the Combined Campuses & Colleges (CCC) have retained their places as permanent fixtures in the championships following their impressive debut seasons.
Guyana Harpy Eagles won last year’s very exciting competition to earn their seventh crown in nine years, after heading into the final round
held in Barbados, Jamaica, St Lucia, Guyana, and Antigua. The tournament resumes just under a month later with the final two rounds being played in Antigua, St Kitts, St Lucia, and Trinidad from April 2-12. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide can catch every moment of the action through live streaming on the Windies Cricket YouTube channel. For those seeking detailed statistics and ball-by-ball updates, www.windiescricket. com Match Centre would provide such coverage.
Matches begin at 10AM
with three other teams within touching distance of the title.
The competition kicks off in late January, and fans would be treated to three action packed rounds from January 29 to February 15.
The first round of games would take place in four host countries – Guyana, Trinidad, St Vincent and Antigua. For the second and third rounds, play extends to Barbados, Dominica and St Kitts.
The second round of matches commences on March 5, and the fourth and fifth rounds are scheduled to be
West Indies XI made a solid start in their threeday tour match against Pakistan Shaheens, as they closed the opening day at 273-7 in Islamabad on Friday.
Led by a composed 98 from Alick Athanaze, the Caribbean side, who are fine-tuning preparations ahead of their two-match Test series which begins on
AST daily, while pink ball matches (P) would commence at 1PM AST.
Full Schedule: 1st Round Fixtures; January 29 –February 1
Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Barbados Pride – Providence, Guyana
(P) Trinidad & Tobago
Red Force vs CCC – BLCA, Trinidad
West Indies Academy vs Leeward Island HurricanesCCG, Antigua Windward Islands
(P) Jamaica Scorpions vs Guyana Harpy EaglesSabina Park, Jamaica Windward Islands
2nd Round
Fixtures; February 5 – 8
Guyana Harpy Eagles vs CCC - Providence, Guyana (P) Barbados Pride vs West Indies Academy - Kensington Oval, Barbados (P) Windward Islands
Volcanoes vs Trinidad & Tobago Red Force - Arnos Vale, St. Vincent Leeward Island
Hurricanes vs Jamaica Scorpions – SVRS, Antigua 3rd Round
Fixtures; February 12–15 (P) Guyana Harpy Eagles vs West Indies AcademyProvidence, Guyana Windward Islands
Volcanoes vs CCC - Windsor Park, Dominica Barbados Pride vs Jamaica Scorpions - Kensington Oval Barbados
Leeward Islands
Hurricanes vs Trinidad & Tobago Red Force - Warner Park, St. Kitts 4th Round Fixtures; March 5–8
Volcanoes vs Leeward Islands
Hurricanes - Daren Sammy Stadium, St. Lucia West Indies Academy vs Trinidad & Tobago Red Force
- CCG, Antigua Barbados Pride vs CCCKensington Oval, Barbados 5th Round Fixtures; March 12– 15
Guyana Harpy Eagles vs Windward Islands Volcanoes – Providence, Guyana West Indies Academy vs Jamaica Scorpions – CCG, Antigua (P) Leeward Island
Hurricanes vs CCC – SVRS, Antigua
Barbados Pride vs Trinidad & Tobago Red Force - Kensington Oval, Barbados
6th Round Fixtures; April 2–5
Leeward Islands
Hurricanes vs Guyana Harpy
Eagles - Warner Park, St. Kitts (P) Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs Jamaica Scorpions -
BLCA, Trinidad Windward Islands Volcanoes vs Barbados Pride - Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, St. Lucia CCC vs West Indies Academy - UWISPEC, Trinidad 7th Round Fixtures; April 9–12
Trinidad & Tobago Red Force vs Guyana Harpy Eagles - QPO, Trinidad (P) Leeward Island
Hurricanes vs Barbados Pride - Warner Park, St. Kitts CCC vs Jamaica Scorpions - UWISPEC, Trinidad (P) West Indies Academy vs Windward Islands Volcanoes - SVRS, Antigua
as Windies start positively
not out at that point, and Athanaze, on eight, steadied the innings to ensure no further loss of wickets heading into the interval.
came off 148 deliveries and included 15 fours and a six. Amir Jangoo (29 not out) and Joshua Da Silva (11 not out) held firm in the
closing stages to see the West Indies to a decent total, which they would aim to increase on Saturday’s second day. (Sportsmax)
January 17, used just 74 overs to lay the foundation.
The West Indies had a measured start, as they got to 115-3 at lunch. Captain Kraigg Brathwaite led from the top with a well-paced 34 before he was the first wicket to fall at 47-1. Keacy Carty (22) and Mikyle Louis (34) also chipped in, but were unable to convert their starts. However, Kavem Hodge, who was 16
The afternoon belonged to Athanaze, who guided the innings from there as he hit 13 boundaries on his way to a fluent 74 off 108 balls, which just about indicates his readiness for the Test series. Hodge (17) and Justin Greaves (5) departed during the session, but Athanaze and Tevin Imlach (12 not out at tea) ensured the West Indies remained on course for a competitive total at 202-5 at tea.
Athanaze continued to dominate on the resumption, but fell just two runs shy of his milestone in what was a bittersweet moment for the team. His 98
SCOREBOARD
b Ahmed Safi Abdullah 34
b Mohammad Rameez 34 Keacy Carty c Rohail Nazir
b Mohammad Rameez 22 Kavem Hodge c Rohail Nazir
b Mohammad Rameez 17 Alick Athanaze
b Ahmed Safi Abdullah 99 Justin Greaves run out(Omair Yousuf) 5 Tevin Imlach c †Ghazi Ghori
b Hussain Talat 13 Amir Jangoo not out 29 Joshua Da Silva † not out 11 Extras (lb 6, nb 2, w 1) 9 Total 74 Ov (RR: 3.68) 273/7
Yet to bat: Jomel Warrican, Jayden Seales, Kemar Roach, Kevin Sinclair,
Gudakesh Motie, Anderson Phillip Fall of wickets: 1-47 (Kraigg Brathwaite), 2-89 (Keacy Carty), 3-90 (Mikyle Louis), 4-134 (Kavem Hodge), 5-159 (Justin Greaves), 6-205 (Tevin Imlach), 7-247 (Alick Athanaze) Bowling O-M-R-W Kashif Ali 9-1-40-0 Ali Raza 12-1-41-0
Musa
Rameez jnr
Talat 4-2-8-1 Pakistan Shaheens Playing XI: Imam-ul-Haq (c), Ahmed Safi Abdullah, Ali Zaryab, Hussain Talat, Kashif Ali, Muhammad Hurraira, Mohammad Rameez jnr, Mohammad Suleman, Ghazi
Volcanoes vs Jamaica Scorpions - Arnos Vale St. Vincent
Alick Athanaze in action
Guyana Harpy Eagles are the defending champions after winning the 2024 Championships
Guyana Harpy Eagles captain Tevin Imlach receiving last year's winning trophy and cheque from Cricket West Indies President Dr Kishore Shallow
RBLCPL 2025 begins on August 14
The 2025 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (RBLCPL) commences on Thursday, August 14, and ends on Sunday, September 21, tournament organisers revealed on Friday.
This window has been agreed between CPL and Cricket West Indies (CWI) and, once again, there will be no clash with West Indies international matches. As obtained in the previous year, the six teams participating in the 2025 season would be: Antigua & Barbuda Falcons, Barbados Royals, Guyana Amazon Warriors, St Kitts & Nevis Patriots, Trinbago Knight Riders, and defending champions Saint Lucia Kings.
These teams would com-
pete across 34 matches to decide which will claim the 2025 CPL title.
Pete Russell, CEO of
Cricket West Indies to find a window that allows the very best players from across the region to take part in the CPL. The 2024 season was our most successful to date, and we are looking forward to building on that success in 2025.”
Lynford Inverary, Cricket West Indies acting CEO and COO, has said: “We are delighted to confirm the 2025 CPL window. While CWI continues to take a leading role in shaping our overall cricket calendar, the CPL remains a key part of our cricketing ecosystem, playing an important role in the development and promotion of the game throughout the Caribbean. Our collaboration with CPL ensures that the best talent will be
The Republic Bank CPL would be held from August 14 to September 21
the Republic Bank CPL, has said: “We are pleased to have once again worked with
on display while avoiding any conflicts with international cricket.”
“Success is just around the corner”
Pele FC confident ahead of Elite League Qualifiers
Having missed the opportunity by a solitary point in 2023, Pele Football Club got their redemption after winning the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) Senior Men’s League in 2024, by which they secured a spot in the Elite League Qualification tournament.
On Sunday, the Georgetown club will play their first game of the qualification tournament when they come up against East Bank Football Association’s (EBFA) Agricola Red Triangle at the Uitvlugt Ground, West Coast Demerara (WBD).
Guyana Times Sport had a chat with the Pele team during one of that team’s training sessions, and both
Lovell claims 5-fer as GHE practice matches begin
Thaddeus Lovell picked up a five-fer while Isai Thorne and Ashmead Nedd were among the wickets when Team Savory and Team Chanderpaul faced off in the first of two practice matches for the Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE) at the
Chanderpaul’s side.
The day/night encounter bowled off on Thursday afternoon with Captain Tagenarine Chanderpaul winning the toss and opting for his XI to take first strike. Opening the batting with Sachin Singh, Captain
Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).
The bowlers’ top spells were, however, not without resistance, as Kevlon Anderson and Jonathan Van Lange put their hands up for
Chanderpaul got to 24 off 50 balls before becoming Thaddeus Lovell’s first victim.
Singh and Usherdeva Balgobin did not last much longer, but Kevlon Anderson utilized his experience to put
up a wall of defence.
Yearwood contributed 30 to the Chanderpaul XI’s score, and after his departure, Anderson found a partner in young Jonathan Van Lange.
Anderson got to 69 off 147 deliveries, inclusive of 10 boundaries, before becoming a victim of pace produced by Isia Thorne, while Van Lange remained unbeaten on 41 from 48 deliveries.
Chanderpaul’s XI were routed for 230. Lovell finished with 5-45 from 12.3 overs, Thorne claimed 2-44
from 13.2 overs, while Nedd picked up 2-22 from 11 overs.
In reply, Savory’s XI got to 26-1 before close of play on the first day.
Matthew Nandu and Zeynul Ramsammy ended the night unbeaten on 5 and 6 runs respectively. Raymon Perez was not as fortunate, however, as he fell to Nial Smith for 6 runs.
The practice match continues until Sunday, January 12, and the second practice game is set to bowl off on Wednesday, January 15.
coach and players were pretty confident of victory heading into the all-important tournament.
Asked about their ascension to the Elite League playoffs, Coach Justin Bentick, in shared his elation at reaching this stage, noted that it means a lot to him as a coach.
“Pele FC is a fairly young group, and they just won the Georgetown League, after 27 years. So, we’re super happy to be part of the Elite League Qualification tournament. Going forward with a young bunch, they’re willing to play and we’re ready to compete,”
on his mind, the Pele player reflected on how their missed opportunity in the Elite League Qualifiers to Beacon FC in 2023 has given the team some sort of added motivation.
“It would mean a lot! We been working, and last year we missed it by a point. So, we ain’t missing it this year for sure!” Hunter expressed.
Quizzed on what Pele FC needs to work on in order to come out on top of the qualification tournament, Hunter took the technical route while his coach had some valuable advice for his troops.
“Probably just our finish-
Bentick told this publication.
“It means a lot to me, as a coach. I’m super happy to know that, at this point, we rebuilt from scratch and we’re back into a playoff,” he disclosed.
Michael Hunter, one of the team’s players, articulated the team’s confidence heading into Sunday’s game, but was cautious enough not to underestimate the opposition.
“We’re pretty confident (after) putting in the hard work, high-intensity team work in the sessions. So, we’re pretty confident. We know we’ll make it to the Elite League, and we ain’t got no doubt about it,” Hunter related.
The Pele player added in regard to the other teams in the competition, “Confident, but we can’t take it (win) for granted, cause they’re the champions of their regions as well. So, we can’t get complacent, we got to keep working, keep going, and we got to put we 100% into the game.”
Also having redemption
ing, at this point, and some chemistry. But other than that, we’re good,” Hunter shared on what his team needs to do in order to be successful.
On the other hand, Coach Bentick expressed, “Be more mature, and just play! Play as a team! Fight as a team! Play as a unit! Attack as a unit! Defend as a unit, and success is just around the corner!”
The clash between Pele FC and Agricola is set for 15:00hrs on Sunday. The winner of that clash will move on to the semifinal round.
The Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Elite League Qualification tournament kicks off today with Mahaica Determinators and Paradise Invaders FC meeting at the Rosignol Ground at 16:00hrs. Winner of the tournament would gain an automatic spot in this year’s Season 7 of the Elite League, while second-place finisher would challenge Ann’s Grove United for their spot in the League. (Jemima Holmes)
Coach Justin Bentick giving advice
Kevlon Anderson put up some resistance for the Chanderpaul XI (Jemima Holmes photo)
Isai Thorne pitched in with 2 scalps (Jemima Holmes photo)
A look at Pele FC preparing for the Elite League Qualification tournament
Republic Bank CPL CEO, Pete Russell
