Guyana Times - Saturday, June 8, 2024.pdf

Residents whose homes were demolished at Hill Foot get house lots Police find ganja during operation at Plaisance

Jamaican artiste shot dead during row over money in Sophia 2 arrested following discovery of 12-gauge shotgun

Family seeks justice for miner killed after pit collapsed at Frenchman Backdam

Jamaican artiste shot dead during row over money in Sophia

Jamaican artiste

Navar George Barton was shot dead on Thursday at his home in Section ‘A’ South Sophia, Greater Georgetown during a row over money, and the suspect, a 37-yearold taxi driver, has been arrested.

According to Barton's 19-year-old girlfriend, she and the 29-year-old Barton were at home when they heard multiple knocks on their door. Barton asked, "Is who?" but received no reply.

The woman told police that, upon looking through their window, they saw the taxi driver and another man

standing at the door. As such, the victim went to enquire the reason for their visit, but an argument broke out between them about money, and this was followed by two gunshots.

The 19-year-old said

that upon hearing the gunshots, she went to check, and found Barton lying motionless on the ground with blood oozing from his head, while the two suspects fled the scene.

Barton was picked up and taken to Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where he died while receiving medical attention.

Following the incident, crime scene investigators were summoned to the scene, and they recovered two 9mm spent shells and two metal fragments.

The taxi driver has been arrested, and he is assisting with the investigation.

Police to clamp down on lawlessness along ECD corridor –

stricter enforcement measures to be implemented

In a determined effort to restore order along the East Coast Demerara corridor, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has begun intensifying measures against rampant traffic violations and increasing reports of reckless driving and pedestrian carelessness, which have raised concerns about road safety.

During a recent traffic management programme, Sergeant Kevin Leitch of the Beterverwagting (BV) Police Station highlighted several critical issues and pointed out that minibus drivers frequently stop abruptly to pick up passengers, ignoring traffic signs and signals.

This unpredictable behaviour, he said, not only

disrupts the flow of traffic, but also poses significant risks to other road users.

“I advise drivers that once you see the signs, adhere to it and encourage your passengers to adhere to it,” Sergeant Leitch has admonished.

“Drivers, where they see passengers, they just stop anywhere on the road. I must remind you guys that not you alone using

the road,” he declared. He has also expressed concerns over pedestrians’ failure to adhere to traffic signs, they often being distracted by headphones and being unaware of their surroundings. This, he said, has resulted in numerous near-misses and accidents, as pedestrians cannot hear vehicle horns or other warning sounds.

TO PAGE 9

Dead: Navar George Barton

Sergeant Rawle Charles

Sergeant Kevin Leitch

TURN

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, June 8 –05:00h-06:30h and Sunday, June 9 – 04:00h-05:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

VP Jagdeo hints at “more severe” penalties for gold smugglers

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily. Saturday, June 8 –04:55h-06:25h and Sunday, June 9 – 05:35h-07:05h.

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery to light rain showers are expected during the day and at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to Southerly between 1.34 metres and 3.12 metres.

High Tide: 17:49h reaching a maximum height of 2.42 metres.

Low Tide: 11:22h and 23:31h reaching minimum heights of 0.59 metre and 0.81 metre.

– says a lot of work done to get evidence against perpetrators

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has hinted at the possibility of more severe penalties being instituted against gold smugglers as efforts are being continued to clamp down on the illegal activity.

Reports of gold smuggling activities, costing the state millions in revenue, have been surfacing throughout the year, and according to the Vice President, “I would even advocate that we amend the law to institute even more severe penalties on people who have done this, or who are doing this.”

Last October, Government announced it was investigating reports of gold smuggling/illegal trade in light of diminishing gold declarations that were at odds with the investments being made in the sector.

At a press conference on Thursday, VP Jagdeo disclosed that a lot of work has been done by local law enforcement agencies, and they will now be going after the perpetrators.

“We believe now that we have enough evidence about some of the people who are involved, and you are going to see additional activities against them…I just want to forewarn those again who have been engaged in this practice that we know who you are – at least some of the key players – and the law enforcement agencies of the Government are coming after you…So, if you’re doing this, desist from doing it, because the full force of the law would be instituted against you,” he warned.

Further, the Vice President noted that the recent bust at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) was just a “tiny manifestation” of these efforts.

On Monday, two US citizens and one Guyanese were intercepted with US$560,000 worth of raw gold at the airport at Timehri. The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) reported that customs officers, with the support of officers attached to

the Natural Resources Ministry and the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), unearthed 240 ounces of pure (raw) gold disguised as silver-plated jewellery on outgoing passengers on an American Airlines’ flight to JFK Airport in New York. The gold was confiscated after the three passengers were unable to produce the required permit and declaration to customs officials.

On Thursday, the three suspects: Ian Jacobis, 44, of Plantation Best, West Coast Demerara, along with US-based Shameena Ahamad, 52, and her 34-year-old daughter Ashiana Salamaly, both of Roraima Scheme, West Bank Demerara, were ar-

raigned in a magistrate’s court charged for the offence of exporting gold without a licence – in contravention of Section 8 of the Guyana Gold Board Act, Chapter 66:01, and contrary to section 23 (a) of the said Guyana Gold Board Act, Chapter 66:01. They have all been placed on bail.

According to the Vice President, this discovery was intelligence-led, and the authorities knew smugglers “were coating the gold with silver and taking it out the country…

“A lot of intelligence work has been done by the law enforcement agencies to understand [the smuggling trends and track] the people who are involved; and they’re going to face the consequences,” the VP has said.

Moreover, Jagdeo reiterated concerns over the continued increasing trend of people not making the required declaration of raw gold to the Guyana Gold Board (GGB), which is costing the state a loss in revenue. This practice, he noted, has also affected the local market.

“We believe it was organized, and it was having an impact because many of the illegitimate

dealers were saying to us that people were offering rates beyond what the market can sustain, even beyond what the international market price was… and clearly there was a demand for the gold for other purposes. We believe (it was used) to externalize maybe ill-gotten proceeds,” he said.

“But we’re going after the people who are doing it…and we are dead serious about it. There has been a lot of quiet work by law enforcement agencies, and the people who are involved, they’re going to feel the full weight of the law enforcement agencies and the laws of Guyana,” the VP has cautioned.

In July 2023, reports surfaced that the federal authorities in Brazil had launched an investigation into a Guyanese businessman suspected of laundering millions worth of illegally-mined gold into that country.

The probe was initiated after authorities had discovered the involvement of an alleged Guyanese businessman who has ties to the gold mining industry in Guyana conducting business in Brazil under suspicious circumstances.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Mining accidents

Mining, a vital sector in Guyana's economy, has long played a significant role in the country's development. This rich mineral resource provides employment opportunities and contributes to national revenue. Small-scale and artisanal mining operations dominate the landscape, employing thousands of individuals, often in hazardous conditions.

However, this industry also carries inherent risks, as evidenced by the occurrence of mining accidents, some of which are avoidable. Mining accidents in Guyana encompass a range of incidents, especially collapses in illegal mines.

One of the primary contributors to these accidents is the prevalence of artisanal and small-scale mining activities, some of which often operate informally and lack proper safety protocols. Despite efforts by the Government to regulate the mining sector and improve safety standards, mining-related deaths continue to occur in Guyana with alarming frequency. Recently, there have been several mining accidents in Guyana’s interior involving collapsed mining pit walls.

Earlier this week, a mining pit at Arakaka, North West District (NWD), Region One (Barima-Waini) collapsed, resulting in the death of a miner. The dead miner, Timothy Fraser, died after being covered by the rubble of the collapse. Just days before that, another miner was injured when a 17-foot pit wall collapsed also at Arakaka, Perseverance, Matarkai.

Nolan Leung was jetting inside the pit with a six-inch water pump near the wall when it gave way.

Just a week prior, another miner, Leon Lyken, lost his life at Frenchman Backdam in Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice). The 27-year-old, of Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), was working with others when a section of the pit collapsed.

Lyken was trapped by the debris, while his colleagues managed to escape, though one sustained a broken foot and other injuries.

The rugged terrain and harsh environmental conditions in mining regions add to the complexity of ensuring safety standards. Remote locations make it difficult to provide more enforcement of regulations and, in some instances, immediate medical assistance in the event of an accident, exacerbating the risks faced by miners. Without proper monitoring and enforcement, miners engaged in illegal activities face heightened dangers.

Other factors that contribute to these accidents are heavy rainfall and unstable geological conditions, which result and/or contribute to landslides and collapses in mining pits. To mitigate these dangers, there must be strengthening of regulatory oversight and enforcement of existing safety regulations. This includes conducting regular inspections of mining sites and imposing penalties for non-compliance. Added to that, providing comprehensive safety training to miners can empower them to identify and mitigate risks effectively.

Additionally, encouraging responsible mining practices that prioritize safety, environmental sustainability, and community engagement can help create a culture of safety within the industry. This includes promoting the use of appropriate technology and techniques to minimize risks to workers and the environment.

Mining accidents pose significant challenges to the safety and well-being of workers in Guyana's mining sector. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach that combines regulatory enforcement, education, and support for responsible mining practices.

By working collaboratively across stakeholders and implementing targeted interventions, the risks associated with mining activities can ensure a safer and more sustainable future for the industry.

All GECOM rogues on Election

Fraud

case 2020 must be brought to justice!

Dear Editor, Guyanese must demand that they have an urgent, unhindered and immediate trial of those who are before the courts for 2020 Election Fraud. We must stop all the delays and attempts to frustrate the trial of these ‘rogues’.

Keith Lowenfield, Roxanne Myers and Clairmont Mingo must face the consequences of their roles in deliberately plunging this nation into five months of palpable tension, and pushing our people to the brink of disaster - Guyana was on the verge of a civil war. The twenty-eight criminal charges in respect to attempted election fraud must be fully ventilated in the court, and those who do the crime must serve the time. All efforts to delay and dodge the trial of those who are charged with fraud must cease, and the trial must proceed with lawful celerity.

PNC/R activists Carol Smith-Joseph, APNU/AFC former Minister of Health Volda Lawrence, along with GECOM staff Denise Babb-Cummings, Michelle Miller, Enrique Livan, Sheffern February, and the three top GECOM staff are before the court for misconduct in public office; uttering forged documents; and plotting to deceive the electors of Guyana by declaring a false account of votes.

Their deliberate attempt to use a so-called “broad sheet” to falsify the result in Region #4 was opposed vehemently. Consequently, there was an official re-count of all the votes cast under the supervision of GECOM and a high-level Caribbean Community (CARICOM) team.

The PPP/C carefully used their statements of poll to verify and confirm their votes at the polls, while the APNU/AFC refused to let their statements of poll see the light of day.

In April 2023, the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the events of the 2020 General and Regional Elections found that there was collusion and collaboration among senior GECOM officials to divert votes to the APNU+AFC, instead of safeguarding and preserving the integrity of the electoral system.

“Our inquiry reveals that there were, in fact, shockingly brazen attempts by Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO) Roxanne Myers, and Returning Officer (RO) Clairmont Mingo to derail and corrupt the statutorily prescribed procedure for the counting, ascertaining, and tabulation of votes of the March 2nd election, as well as the true declaration of the re-

sults of that election, and that they did so – to put it in the unvarnished language of the ordinary man – to steal the election,” the commissioners said in their report.

As such, the commissioners said, after consideration and analysis of the evidence, Lowenfield, Mingo and Myers “were principally responsible for clear and deliberate attempts to frustrate, obstruct, and subvert the ascertainment of votes in electoral district No. 4.”

The fact that election-rigging is a norm for the PNC was made abundantly clear when, just recently, the PNC ‘strong man’ Hamilton Greene gave his blessings to ‘rigged elections’.

The recent historical ‘Elections’ revelations in the United States of America must serve as a lesson to the world that we must not tolerate attempts to rig elections. In Guyana, these Election Fraud cases have been allowed to linger in the courts for too long. Our people must never forget those five long months when the PNC riggers kept their knees on our people’s neck.

The Judicial Service Commission must assert itself and let us ‘bring on the Fraud trial’.

Sincerely,

Neil Kumar

President Dr Irfaan Ali and members of the Afghanistan ICC T20 team took a photo opportunity on Friday after Jum'ah at the Queenstown Masjid

Guyana is participating in the 2024 “International Labour Parliament” at the International Labour Conference

Dear Editor, Guyana has been a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) since 1966, and will attend, and should participate actively at, the international Labour Conference with the recognised tripartite delegation. The 112th Session of the International Labour Conference is scheduled to be held from June 3 to 14, 2024 in Geneva, Switzerland.

The International Labour Conference is the ILO's highest decision-making body. It meets annually in June, bringing together recognised tripartite delegations from the Organization's 187 member states, consisting of governments’, employers' and workers' delegates, who participate and vote independently.

The ILO is a United Nations agency, whose mandate is to advance social and economic justice by setting international labour standards. Founded in October 1919 under the League of Nations, it is one of the first and oldest specialised agencies of the UN, with 187 member states. It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, with around 40 field offices around the world.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) is devoted to promoting social justice and internationally recognized human and labour rights. It pursues its founding mission that labour peace is essential to prosperity; and in keeping with its mission to promote rights at work, it encourages decent employment opportunities, enhances social protection, and strengthens dialogue on work-related issues. Four pillars of the International Labour Organization

We can learn a lot from Brazil when it comes to producing sugar

Dear Editor,

It was good to see that GuySuCo was once again in the news. Given that a large section of the labour force depends on the sugar industry for their daily bread, we should continue to seek the most efficient means of producing sugar. As a nation, we can learn a lot from Brazil when it comes to producing sugar.

Guyana yields 35% of what Brazil yields in sugar production per hectare, and produces sugar for twice the cost that Brazil produces sugar. The benchmarking of Brazil’s best practices in the industry, and utilizing their resources to aid in the improvement of our sugar production, should be undertaken. They continue to be the world’s largest and least

are: promoting jobs and enterprise; guaranteeing rights at work; extending social protection; and promoting social dialogue in context of ILO Decent Work Agenda, with gender as a cross-cutting theme of: a) Freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining; b) The elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour; c) The effective abolition of child labour; and d) The elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) is devoted to promoting social justice and internationally recognized human and labour rights, pursuing its founding mission that social justice is essential to universal and lasting peace. The agenda items for the 2024 Conference are: discussion, consideration and approval of:

I. Reports of the Chairperson of the Governing Body and of the Director-General

II. Programme and Budget and other related questions

expensive producer of sugar.

Our neighbours to the south have not only leveraged economies of scale, but have also been able to reduce their crop maintenance and harvest costs (Reference: Sugar Cost of Production Across the World by Ana Zancaner, CZ Insights, March 2024).

Plans underway to increase the number of hectares under cultivation in Guyana must include the setting of production targets that would eventually get us to Brazil’s best-in-class levels. This would ensure that Guyana becomes very competitive in the industry, while also securing our country’s place in its future.

Best regards, Jamil Changlee

Conference (ILC) adopted the ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, and its Follow-up, as an expression of commitment to uphold basic values that are embodied in eight fundamental ILO Conventions:No. 29 - Forced Labour, 1930; No. 87 - Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organize, 1948; No. 98Right to Organize and Collective Bargaining, 1948; No. 100 - Equal Remuneration, 195; No. 105 - Abolition of Forced Labour, 1957; No. 111 - Discrimination (Employment and Occupation), 1958; No. 138 - Minimum Age, 1973; and No. 182 Worst Forms of Child Labour, 1999

ised consultative meetings of Government, employers and Trade Unions delegations, and negotiations among them on critical issues before the Conference.

The Employers’ and Trade Unions’ delegations are usually assisted in technical issues by the International Employers’ Organization, International Workers’ bodies within the ILO respectively.

Caribbean Employers’ Confederation and the International Employers’ Organization based in the ILO. CAGI has a wide range of members drawn from the major private companies based in Guyana, which are companies affiliated to the Chambers of Commerce, the Manufacturers Association, Tourism and Hotel Association etc.

III. Information and reports on the application of Conventions and Recommendations by member states

IV. Protection against biological hazards (standard-setting, first discussion)

V. A recurrent discussion on the strategic objective of fundamental principles and rights at work

VI. General Discussion on Decent work and the care economy

In June 1998, the International Labour

The Declaration places an obligation on all member states, even if they have not ratified these Conventions, to respect "in good faith and in accordance with the Constitution, the principles concerning the fundamental rights, which are the subject of these Conventions". States that have not ratified the core Conventions are requested also to submit annual reports on the progress made in implementing the principles of these core Conventions, which establish a "social minimum at the global level." The Declaration stresses that "labour standards should not be used for protectionist trade purposes".

The Guyana delegation is required to be well prepared to represent this country and contribute meaningfully to the debates and discussions. There are also simultaneous special-

The Consultative Association of Guyanese Industry Ltd. (CAGI) has been the recognised Employers’ Organization by the ILO on all tripartite matters relating to International Labour Conventions (which are international treaties registered with this UN Organization) and Recommendations, international labour surveys, responding to the ILO on labour issues, and promoting the decent work agenda of the ILO. CAGI is a member of the

Furthermore, CAGI has membership from public corporations, shipping and the banking sectors. CAGI is a founding member of the Private Sector Commission of Guyana, and maintains membership in the Private Sector Commission. It is the specialised organization of employers on International Labour Conventions, labour and human resource matters, official ILO correspondent of employers.

Yours sincerely, Samuel J Goolsarran

Page Foundation

Think about a big issue that you wish could come true.

Supplies

• Coloured index cards or light-coloured construction paper

• Pens, pencils, or thin markers

• Hole puncher

• String or yarn, cut to 12-inch lengths

Let’s get started

Punch a hole in each card or construction paper square and write in big letters the topics you care about, and then a brief sentence about your wish for the world.

. Here are some examples: Clean Oceans: I hope that one day there will be no more plastic in the oceans so that sea creatures can have a healthier environment.

No Violence: I want a world where no child or family has to experience war or violence.

Kindness to Animals: I hope we can live in a world where all animals are treated humanely.

Tie each wish card to a tree in your yard or the community green space. Or you could string the punched cards on a long piece of yarn or string and hang up a “wish strand” in your home.

Discuss with adults how to do your part. (startwithabook.org)

Thousands to receive house lots, houses during Int’l Building Expo 2024 – Min Rodrigues

– Some 500 exhibitors expected to showcase products, services – PSC lauds initiative for providing significant opportunities

Thousands of Guyanese are set to receive houses, house lots, and land titles during Government’s hosting of the International Building Expo, 2024 slated for August 8 to 11 at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

This announcement was made by Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, when she highlighted Government’s commitment to a people-driven movement.

“Land allocation and title distribution programmes will be a central feature of the expo. Thousands of Guyanese will receive house lots over the two days, join-

ing over 34,000 recipients of house lots or houses in the past three years,” Rodrigues has said. “We are a government that remains people-driven, and our investment in the housing sector is geared towards empowering Guyanese with homeownership, and preparing them to participate and prosper in the bright future we are creating for every Guyanese family.”

Rodrigues has also emphasized that Guyana’s ambitious Silica City project would be prominently featured at the expo as the country’s premier low-carbon and climate-resilient urban city.

“Silica City will take centre stage as Guyana’s premier, sus-

tainable, low-carbon, climate-resilient city. With its potential to become the nation’s most desired location for a contemporary urban lifestyle, Silica City will be a demonstration of President Ali’s vision of a development approach,” she noted.

Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Komal Singh, explained that Building Expo has created vast opportunities for Guyana’s private sector.

“The private sector has benefitted significantly. The Building Expo 2024 will once again allow our business sector to showcase what we can offer to our community and to the building development

currently taking place in Guyana,” Singh remarked.

He also specifically mentioned that Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) has created significant opportunities for the private sector.

“…arising out of the business strategic plan we are working with; it creates economic opportunities for the private sector. We have seen a ripple impact throughout every single sector: the services sector, construction, and others,” Singh stated.

He also highlighted the tremendous growth

in these sectors facilitated by the ongoing housing development, and expressed that the private sector is eager to continue collaborating with the Building Expo.

“The private sector and its entire membership are pleased to officially endorse Building Expo 2024. We look forward to working closely with the Central Housing and Planning Authority and the Government to ensure the country develops in a way that benefits all our citizens and improves their lifestyles,” he said. Singh has praised the collaborative efforts between Government and the private sector which have fostered an enabling environment for development and growth.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues

Family seeks justice for miner killed after pit collapsed at Frenchman Backdam

Almost one month after 27-year-old Leon Lyken of Zeelugt New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, was killed in a mining pit accident at Frenchman Backdam, members of his family are calling for justice.

It was reported that Lyken and three others were working in the mining pit when a 20-foot wall on the opposite side collapsed. An excavator was used to retrieve his body.

During an interview with <<Guyana Times,>> his mother Donnett Elliott explained that her son had been the sole breadwinner of the family, and their future now looks dim.

“I have been a single mother for 14 years. Leon left to work with his employer (name withheld) on May 23, 2024, and he died (on) Saturday, May 25…He worked in the interior some time back,

but he had some injury and was at home for a period. He was fully recovered and decided to go back to work…He was not my only child, but he was the sole breadwinner for my family,” she expressed.

She noted that although her son died at this work site, no one from the company has contacted them to lend a helping hand in ensuring that he is laid to rest.

“Nobody from the company or his boss reached out to me on to

now…He did not help with nothing. People from the community, friends and family helped me where this funeral was concerned, and even the funeral parlour man cut down on the funeral expenses,” the aggrieved mother has said.

She added that due to the state of her son’s body, they had had to have it embalmed.

“The parlour did that at no cost. If I had to pay all that money for everything, it would have been much harder on

me…I want to thank Mr. Ezekiel for seeing with me,” she declared.

This mother is hoping that no other mother would have to face what she had gone through, especially in losing a son.

“I desire that safety measures be put in place at mining sites, so that what happened to Leon will not happen again to any other person. I also call for employers to see in their hearts to assist families who face financial constraints when someone dies on their working sites,” she has said.

Elliott is pleading with the Government and other relevant authorities to look into the matter.

“I need justice for my son. There is no compensation or anything from the boss…so, I need justice and compensation for my son’s death. Look into the lives that are being lost in the interior, please!” she has said.

Moving ahead… …economically

Everyone agrees that we gotta take care of our physiological needs: food, shelter, sex etc, before anything else – even if we’ve never heard about Maslow and his “hierarchy of needs”!! And to satisfy those needs in our present world, we need money - which we get from working for others or for ourselves. Now, without getting too heavy, it’s unanimously agreed that the SYSTEM that best delivers the goods to satisfy our needs is capitalism - wherein those who got the “capital to open up businesses to produce the said goods own the factories or farms etc, and employ others for a salary.

Now, if you just think about it, this would produce a society wherein those who own the “means of production” –in the words of one critic – would get steadily richer. Surely, you wouldn’t keep the business going if you weren’t making profits – which, if you don’t splurge it away in wine, women, and song! – will create your wealth!! And this state of affairs has been trenchantly criticized for “the rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer” - and all sorts of “fixes” have been proposed and tried.

Burnham tried one he called “cooperative socialism”. And without getting into all the shameful details - it failed abysmally! Rather than fulfilling its goal to “feed, clothe and house” the people, they became hungry, naked and homeless!! Russia tried another version, with the state owning everything without the “profit motive”, and that also collapsed after 70 years. Finally, we have China presently combining state ownership with the profit motive, and doing pretty well, since all the capital was pumped in by American Capitalists who were only interested in profits in THEIR country!!

In Guyana, we finally got some money to help us take off more than the “bare necessities”. And the question is what system do we use to achieve our goal? To your Eyewitness, the answer is a “no-brainer”: capitalism!! So, the other question is whether he wants “the rich to get richer and the poor to get poorer”. But actually, that statement isn’t correct!! While there’s no question capitalists will get richer, the WORKERS will also get richer, and have a higher standard of living than before. However, since “rich and poor” are relative terms, they’ll be poorer!!

Take India, for instance, where one study by a fella named Piketty says INEQUALITY there is even starker than during British days!! But imagine saying that CONDITIONS for the poor were better then?? When there was famine and over FIFTY million perished from starvation?? Ha!!

The point is – as another wise one said - if a certain inequality is necessary to raise the rest of society up, then so be it!! All boats will rise!!

…with national unity

There’s a misconception in our nation that “unity” means “unanimity”. Nothing could be further from the truth. Each of us - even in a biological family - are different…so why shouldn’t we disagree on specifics. So, we gotta start from the acceptance of differences; and the challenge when we’re trying to do things together – like running our country - is to ask how to deal with differences.

So, let’s start with this brouhaha about what do we call each other. We should know that the old saw about “sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me” is a piece of crock. Words can hurt more than anything, since they carry a baggage of history which may have placed so much hurtful sentiments into that word. And we know, to our eternal hurt, that the words to describe us were all created by those who colonized us by stipulating we were inferior. So, those who’re clamouring for change should also quit naming others!!

…in cricket

So, what does the USA’s victory over Pakistan in the World Cup mean?? Cynics may talk about “fixes”, but, to your Eyewitness, it proves the cliché that, on any given Sunday, any team can…

Dead: Leon Lyken Grieving mother Donnett Elliott

“We’re

not desperate to sell the Marriott” – VP Jagdeo reiterates –

says “it’s fine” if sale does not go through, no rush to

retender

The Guyana Government is not in a rush to sell the Marriott Hotel, with Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo reiterating that there is no urgency in getting rid of this ‘valuable’ state asset.

In May 2023, United States-based X, LLC emerged as the successful bidder with a US$90 million proposal to buy the Marriott Hotel, located in Kingston, Georgetown. Apart from X, LLC, the only other company that submitted a proposal in the second bidding process was Integrated Group Guyana Inc., which had put in a US$86.1 million offer to buy the hotel. Government had chosen the higher bidder to sell the hotel to. However, the company’s owner, Egyptianborn American business-

man Ramy El-Batrawi, suddenly passed away in April this year. On Thursday, VP Jagdeo ruled out the deal with the US company going through, explaining that it was El-Batrawi himself who was pushing to buy the hotel.

The Vice President had previously indicated that the current intention is to approach the second-ranked bidder to see if they were

still interested in buying the hotel. However, the Vice President could not say whether the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) has already engaged Integrated Group Guyana Inc., and efforts by Guyana Times to ascertain this have proven futile. Jagdeo has contended, “We’re not desperate to sell the Marriott. So, if the second offer

Police to clamp down on...

A particularly troubling trend identified by the police is the minibus drivers’ disregard for traffic lights, he said.

Additionally, speeding has become a common occurrence along the ECD roadway, and this is compounded by instances of drivers consuming alcohol at bus parks before embarking on the journey to their destinations.

Leitch is urging passengers to report such dangerous behaviours, but has lamented that such reports are rare, as passengers often condone these actions.

"Without reports and statements from passengers, the police can’t do anything about it,” he warned.

“Another thing (is that) minibus drivers are drinking before bringing passengers up at the park. There are passengers seeing those things and boarding the same minibuses, and would not report it," he lamented as he emphasized the

critical role of community cooperation in curbing these violations.

Sergeant Rawle Charles, also stationed at the BV Police Station, has related that during the morning rush hours, which are between 7:00h and 9:00h, the railway embankment is designated as a one-way route to alleviate traffic congestion. However, he said, numerous drivers blatantly ignore this regulation and drive against the one-way system, thereby endangering lives.

“We would have to deal with them (the drivers) so that we can prevent any accidents, because if an accident is to occur, the person driving up the one-way, it can be a very serious accident”, he explained.

Charles further highlighted the chaotic scenes at the Mon Repos Market on Saturdays and Sundays, where drivers park their vehicles recklessly, often ignoring traffic signs and leaving their vehicles unattend-

is concluded…and if it doesn’t go through, it’s fine [either way]. The Marriott is still there, and 100 per cent owned by the Government of Guyana…”

entertainment centre to make enough money to repay up to US$30 million in debts to the banks and other creditors.

ed for extended periods.

Despite repeated warnings from the police, such behaviours persist, he said, prompting the authorities to start clamping vehicle wheels as a deterrent.

“Even though there are no parking signs there, persons would go and park their vehicles on the sign… So, of recent, we have gone into action with wheel clamps, which will help us find the persons who are parking their vehicles and going away and leave them”, Sergeant Charles has said.

In response to these widespread infractions, police on the ECD have ramped up their presence on the roadways, implementing stricter enforcement measures. Sergeants Leitch and Charles have both reiterated the importance of public cooperation in these efforts, urging drivers and pedestrians alike to adhere to traffic rules, and report any violations they witness. (G-9) FROM PAGE 2

Asked whether Government plans to retender the hotel, the Vice President responded in the negative.

“There is no urgency in any of these matters. It’s a state asset, and it’s there… It has great value, and I’m so pleased that we spent [over] US$50 million and we got that offer of nearly US$90 million,” he posited.

The Guyana Marriott Hotel, which was opened in 2015, was constructed to the tune of US$58 million. A feasibility study conducted by Miami-based firm HVS Consulting back in 2010 had outlined that the Marriott Hotel is likely to be sold ten years after it has become operational at some US$76.1 million.

In a notice back in December 2022, NICIL announced its intention to sell the state’s shares in Atlantic Hotels Incorporated (AHI), the state-owned holding company for the Marriott Hotel.

AHI is the NICIL special purpose company that fully owns the 197room hotel, whose financing structure had depended on a casino and

However, those addons to the hotel have been scrapped.

The hotel was opened in 2015, the same year ExxonMobil first found oil in Guyana’s waters, and has since gone on to play an important part in Guyana’s developing oil and gas sector. It is used to accommodate local and overseas offshore workers, as well as serve as a prime venue to host numerous private and state-sponsored events.

It was against this backdrop that Government had argued that now was the right time to sell the hotel, which is currently operating at a profit even without the casino and entertainment centre add-ons. It said selling the Marriott Hotel now would bring in “maximum value” to the state, which could go towards triggering other investments in the country.

During the initial bidding round early last year, X, LLC had submitted the highest bid of US$65 million. Among the other bidders were Pegasus Hotel Guyana, which bid at US$55.5 million; Georgetown Investments and Management Services Inc, which bid

at US$50M; Muneshwers Ltd, which bid at US$25 million; Integrated Group Guyana Inc, which bid at US$55 million; and NCB Capital Markets Limited, which bid at US$33 million. In April 2023, the Guyana Government said the bids received were “too low”, and decided not to pursue any of them. NICIL then wrote the six companies, informing them that a base price of US$85 million was set, and, as such, recommended that they resubmit bids reflecting this new figure. However, only two of the six companies responded by the May 16, 2023 deadline. New offers were received from X, LLC at US$90 million and Integrated Group Guyana Inc. at US$86.1 million.

After an assessment of these two bidders, the decision was taken to go ahead with El-Batrawi’s US$90 million bid.

The US company had since been in negotiations with the Government through NICIL, and had already ironed out the sale terms and conditions. In March this year, El-Batrawi told local newspaper Stabroek News that he would be in Guyana in April to “conclude the deal.” However, the businessman passed away on Tuesday, April 23, at the age of 63.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown

“We are not obligated to put our audits in public domain” – Norton

In the face of heavy criticisms regarding the party’s finances, leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Aubrey Norton, has confirmed that an audit has been conducted, but has said the party is not obligated to reveal this to the public.

Norton made these remarks during his party’s weekly press conference on Friday.

Since his assumption of the helm of the party, there have been mounting concerns, including internally, over the lack of financial accountability in the PNCR – the leading party in the coalition Opposition, and the PNCR leader had previously committed to having an audit done on the party’s finances; but on Friday he disclosed that

the audit was done only on a section of the PNCR’s accounts, and he would not go into details.

“We have had an audit conducted on at least one part of our operations, but we are now obligated to put our audits in the public domain. Those who are pushing for an audit in the public domain clearly have an agenda that suits the PPP (the ruling People’s Progressive Party), but (that) doesn’t suit the interest of the People’s National Congress/Reform,” Norton posited.

Last year, in a leaked telephone conversation, former PNCR Treasurer Faaiz Mursalin had expressed concerns about the PNCR leadership on a host of issues, including financial impropriety, with him being instructed

by Norton to sign several blank cheques, the lack of supporting financial documents for expenditures, and the lack of an audit of the party’s finances.

Shortly after these allegations had surfaced, former PNCR General Secretary and party stalwart Amna Ally had told a local newspaper that

the party’s finances were in order, and annual audits were being done before Norton had assumed leadership in December 2021. Recently, however, US-based PNCR member Egland Gomes, in a letter to the editor last week, stated that the party is in “disarray”, with supporters being disappointed and frustrated by Norton.

“We have seen the party decline in its ability to motivate and inspire others to join… Ever since the PNCR party leader acceded to office, Congress Place has become hostile to the wider membership,” Gomes contended.

“There has been no financial accountability for the party's financial resources, the Central Executive team has failed to provide comprehensive oversight and account-

ability for the party, with no accountability or responsibility for the multiple violations of the party constitution. Some very egregious acts (have been committed), like the now notorious blank cheques scandal which saw the resignation of the party treasurer. No auditor was ever appointed, as mandated by the party constitution,” the letter detailed.

According to Gomes, the date for the PNCR Biennial Congress was “hastily announced” after witnessing a new wave of party supporters’ engagement in North America and Guyana. He said there was “no consideration for financial considerations to hold or convene the congress. Notwithstanding the deceptive public statements that there would be

an independent audit of the membership CPU…I implore everyone to take careful consideration of the fact that the party membership CPU may be compromised. Without an independent audit and report, the Biennial Congress elections will not be credible and present a dark future for our democracy.”

Gomes added in the letter, “No financial accountability for more than two years! No treasurer, a quite possibly compromised membership CPU without an independent audit or oversight now. Please join the call to hold the PNCR party leader accountable and elect new credible leadership who will represent our constituents now.”

PNCR leader Aubrey Norton

Scenes from the launch of Int'l Building Expo 2024

Residents whose homes were demolished at Hill Foot get house lots

One year after homes at Hill Foot in Soesdyke, EBD had been demolished due to a dispute with the property owner, the aggrieved residents on Friday participated in a land identification exercise at the Kuru Kururu (Swan Turn) extension area, led by Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, and members of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC).

Following the demolition last year, McCoy and Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Sherwyn Greaves, had met with the affected persons. The conflict had stemmed from the demolition of squatters’ structures by private landowner Lawrence Almeem, who had taken those squatters to court and was enforcing a court order for their removal. At that meeting, Greaves had said that each household would be offered a plot of land or a turnkey house, based on their preference. He had indicated that all the ap-

plications would be fasttracked, and had urged the squatters to work with the agency.

The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC) had also offered squatters land at Long Creek, and persons had had the option of remaining at the Hill Foot land and applying for prescriptive rights.

It was reported that the owner of the property had taken court action in 2019 to remove the squatters, and a court ruling had

been issued on the matter in April 2023. The order was granted to have the squatters removed from the land, which is privately owned.

Following the demolition of several homes, occupants had taken protest action by blocking the roads with burning debris. Details provided had indicated that the residents were given notices to vacate the property before the demolition. While some had got a chance to remove their items from

Thousands to receive house lots...

the structures, others did not.

This year, approximately 500 exhibitors and corporate sponsors are expected to attend the expo, themed “Building on the Foundation of Sustainability and Unity.”

The International Building Expo stands as a

“We are very fortunate, as a business and as a country, to have a Government that works very closely with the private sector to make sure that we create an enabling environment that assists our private sector to develop and thrive,” he declared while concluding that the private sector development is substantial, and the sector is happy to see the progress in the housing industry to help develop the country in a way that every single Guyanese can have a better life in the future.

testament to unwavering dedication to excellence in the housing and building sector. It serves as an industry where leaders, policymakers and stakeholders converge to exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and explore innovative solutions to address the evolving demands and challenges as the economy expands through the Government’s transformational programmes.

In retaliation to the demolition, several persons had armed themselves with missiles and offensive weapons before piling up and lighting debris and tyres across the SoesdykeLinden Highway.

Reports are that Federal Police agents suspected that the Guyanese businessman has a Brazilian partner who aids in the movement of funds through the companies.

Last October, the Ministry of Natural Resources reminded miners that they are required to sell all the gold they find to licensed gold dealers/traders, or to the Guyana Gold Board. It also reminded them that it is illegal to purchase gold without the requisite licence.

According to the Ministry, the relevant agencies are tasked with ensuring the laws surrounding the selling of gold are upheld; and further, an investigation has been launched into the disparity in gold declarations and investments.

The Bank of Guyana (BoG) reported in its 2023

Annual Report that total gold declarations contracted by 11.2 per cent to 432,113.2 ounces, reflecting a decline in production by small and medium-scale miners and an increase in the sole operating foreign company.

According to the Central Bank, the volume of gold exported had diminished by 9.5 per cent or 45,874.2 ounces to 437,060 ounces as a result of lower declarations.

Earlier in the year, in its 2023 first quarter statistical report on the performance of the economy, the BoG had reported that gold declarations had decreased by 5.3 per cent when compared to the same period last year.

For 2022, the total gold declaration was 486,415 ounces; in 2021, it was 499,054 ounces; 2020 recorded 584,291 ounces, and 2019 recorded some 634,905 ounces.

Affected persons at the exercise on Friday

Two elated residents identifying their plots of land

FROM PAGE 7

Chairman of the Private Sector Commission, Komal Singh

Govt bans use of “Negro”, “East Indian” by Police, health institutions

The Government has, with immediate effect, ordered a ban on the usage of the words “Negro” and “East Indian” by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and public health institutions when referencing Guyana’s main ethnic groups.

In a statement issued on Friday, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, disclosed that this decision has been made by the Cabinet on Thursday.

“Recognizing that many Guyanese find the terms “Negro” and “East Indian” offensive, the Cabinet decided, on June 6, 2024, that the terms used by the Guyana Police Force, including Immigration and the health sector, as forms of identification and epidemiological references to ethnic descriptions will now read [otherwise],” the missive detailed.

These terms, while not enshrined in law, have been used as tools of identification since the colonial

era and after independence. However, with the changes made by Cabinet, the new terms to be used to describe ethnicities are Guyanese of African descent, Guyanese of Indian descent, Guyanese Amerindian, Guyanese of mixed ancestry, Guyanese of Portuguese descent, and Guyanese of Chinese descent.

According to Minister Teixeira, relevant entities are instructed to implement the Cabinet’s decision and update their operational manuals and rules accordingly.

This issue was raised recently by Attorney-atLaw Nigel Hughes, who expressed concerns about the Police Force’s use of the derogatory word in its official reports. He cited Article 149 of the Guyana Constitution and several other pieces of legislation which commit to equality and non-discrimination, and mandates that all citizens be treated with respect and fairness.

Hughes had written a letter to the Ethnic Relations

Governance & Parliamentary

Affairs Minister Gail Teixeira

Commission (ERC), which has since initiated discussions with the GPF on the matter.

The lawyer’s letter to the Commission stemmed from the Police Force’s initial description of Working People’s Alliance (WPA) activist Kidackie Amsterdam as a “Negro”.

Amsterdam was arrested and charged with violating the Cybercrime Act after a caller to his Facebook programme allegedly advocated the killing of the President and four government ministers. He is currently on $200,000 bail.

Attorney Hughes had

2 arrested following discovery of 12-gauge shotgun

Two persons, one of whom is a female driver, are now in police custody following the discovery of a 12-gauge shotgun at Islington in New Amsterdam, Berbice.

Police have said they had attempted to intercept motor car PAB 3302, but the vehicle sped off towards the Islington seawall. As the car came to a halt, a 33-year-old construction worker who lives in the Overwinning Housing Scheme in New Amsterdam reportedly exited the vehicle and started to run, taking with him an object wrapped in transparent plastic.

Ranks gave chase, and saw the man trying to dis-

pose of the object over the seawall.

He later surrendered to the police. Because the tide was high, ranks remained at the Islington Seawall with the suspect in order to retrieve the object he had thrown overboard. The object was retrieved at about 21:00h, and proved to be a 12-gauge shotgun. The suspect was asked

whether he was the holder of a firearm licence, but he remained silent. He was told of the offence committed, cautioned, and taken into custody. The driver of the motor car from which the suspect exited has also been arrested, and both suspects were escorted to the Central Police Station.

Investigations are in progress.

Police find ganja during operation at Plaisance

Acordon-and-search operation conducted on Thursday in Britton Street Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, has led to the discovery of 152.5 grams of ganja.

Police have said that during the operation, a Ziplock bag found in a clump of bushes was found to contain a quantity of cannabis. The narcotic was taken to the Sparendaam Police Station, where it was weighed and amounted to 152.5 grams. At the time of the discovery, no

Attorney-at-Law

Nigel Hughes

engaged the ERC to issue a directive to the Force advising that law enforcement agency to cease the use of the term and any other derogatory language when referring to individuals of African descent.

But, according to Minister Teixeira in her Friday missive, despite being in Government from 1966 to 1992, and again from 2015 to 2020, the People’s National Congress and the PNCRled APNU+AFC Coalition, along with Hughes, failed to address the Police’s outdated use of terms like “Negro,” which was inherited from British colonial times.

“The arrest of Kidackie Amsterdam on cybercrime charges prompted Mr. Hughes and the PNCR-led Coalition to suddenly raise the issue of ethnic identification. Their long period of somnambulism was finally over, but this newfound urgency did not extend to condemning the caller who demanded the beheading of Government leaders and displaying their heads on staves by the seawall — an image reminiscent of the barbaric practices of the colonial rulers,” Teixeira contended.

Similar arguments were made by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo during a press conference on Thursday, in which he disclosed that Cabinet has discussed the matter.

The Vice President had pointed out that Attorney Hughes, in all his career as a lawyer, was aware and even participated in the use of the word in official statements and reports, but has only now chosen to create an issue.

In addition to Hughes, Jagdeo called out PNC member Winston Felix, who, as a former Police Commissioner, never objected to, or took actions against, the use of the term by the GPF.

“The police under [Felix’s] tenure probably used this word a billion times, and sudden he finds the word ‘Negro’ offensive… [And Hughes] never objected in the past [to the use of the word ‘negro’]. There are maybe 50 cases where he saw this before [but never objected], and he has not started practising recently; he has been practicing (for) a long time,” Jagdeo stated.

According to the Vice President, the Opposition could have simply reached out to Government, even President Irfaan Ali, and requested that this term be changed; but instead they are using this issue as part of their racist agenda to appeal to the emotions of AfroGuyanese.

“For them, it’s a big political issue…,” the VP insisted.

The shotgun that was retrieved

Ganja that was found in a clump of bushes in Plaisance

Govt made significant strides in tackling illegal fishing – Min Bharrat

Natural Resources

Minister Vickram Bharrat has highlighted Government’s commitment to preserving Guyana’s marine spaces by recognising their importance for environmental sustainability, economic growth, and cultural heritage.

As a result, the minister disclosed that the implementation of comprehensive policies and initiatives has resulted in significant progress being made in tackling illegal fishing.

He was at the time speaking during the United Nations’ (UN) ‘Blue Talks’ series, at the UN House on Duke Street, Georgetown on Thursday.

“In the past, it was a challenge for us, but I think we have managed to deal

veloped to provide 24-hour monitoring of the country’s marine spaces, with the capacity to identify any vessel operating in these areas.

“Through that software, we have managed to curb illegal fishing within our marine space,” Minister Bharrat highlighted.

In addition to this software, and in relation to oil exploration activities, the minister pointed out that produced water is treated to international standards before being re-discharged into the ocean. This process removes oil, grease, and other contaminants that can harm marine life and ecosystems.

“As a Government, I think we’re putting a lot of steps in place to not only preserve our forests, but also our marine space… We

with that situation. I will not say that we have eradicated it totally, but I will say that we have put a lot of systems in place to minimise this illegal practice in our marine space,” Minister Bharrat said.

He highlighted that, under the purview of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), comprehensive software has been de-

are committed to ensuring that we work with the UN and any other stakeholders who are willing to work with us… We are balancing economic development with the preservation of our environment,” Minister Bharrat has assured.

The minister pointed out that Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), which is an extended version of the previous LCDS, includes several innovative measures and concepts, including the creation of a blue economy, in recognition of the importance of marine life.

“If we don’t maintain our forests and our ocean, it will be detrimental to us as humans. That’s the bottom line. So, we have a responsibility to ensure that while we take care of forests, our marine spaces and environment are protected and preserved,” he emphasised.

The ‘Blue Talks’ forum was held under the theme “Accelerating action and mobilising all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.”

He was also quick to assure that oil exploration activities are performed approximately 100 miles from the coast, and do not contribute to a decline in the fishing industry, as is inaccurately reflected in some reports. In November, Government launched an action plan to strengthen its monitoring, control, surveillance, and enforcement of the fishing industry as part of its targeted approach to protecting its marine space.

“We are not obligated to...

However, during Friday’s press conference, Norton declared that Gomes does not have “any authority” to speak on the party’s business, and opted not to respond to his letter. “Our financial operations are our business,” the PNCR leader maintained.

With regards to the upcoming PNCR Congress, set

for June 28 to 30, Norton disclosed that the process for the hosting of this event has been activated. The first part, which has to do with persons applying and renewing their membership, has been completed, he said.

“The second part is that there is an Accreditation Committee which operates

FROM PAGE 11

independently, (it) will then look at the data and then inform the party’s membership as to who are entitled to be delegates (and) who aren’t,” Norton explained. In light of this, the PNCR leader said, it would be premature to ascertain what the turnout would be like for the party’s congress this month-end.

Natural Resources Minister,

Vickram Bharrat

UG, GMCS collaborate to boost research, public awareness of sustainable environmental practices

The University of Guyana (UG) and the Guyana Marine Conservation Society (GMCS) on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which paves the way for enhanced research and public education and awareness on environmental issues in Guyana.

That MoU, which aims to leverage joint resources and expertise to address key environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices, was signed at a simple but significant ceremony at the UG Education Lecture Theatre (ELT) on the Turkeyen Campus.

The signing of the

agreement marks a significant milestone towards enhancing local research efforts and environmental awareness in Guyana, particularly along the BarimaMora Passage (BMP) coastline. The initiative is being supported with funding from IDB Lab. UG Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin emphasised the pivotal role of UG in tackling environmental issues, and highlighted the university’s commitment to sustainable environmental practices, climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and strategic actions in implementing policies to safeguard the environment.

Dr. Marie Correia, stressed the significance of the MoU in facilitating local research initiatives and promoting environmental awareness. She emphasised the alignment of this collaboration with the goals of World Environment Day, particularly in addressing land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience.

The VC noted that the signing of the MoU is expected to broaden UG’s

Suriname Energy Oil & Gas Summit 2024

SGCC pavilion reinforces mission to foster economic growth, bilateral cooperation

As the Suriname Energy Oil & Gas Summit culminates, the newly-formed Suriname Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) was well received at the event, which was held from June 4 to 7 in Paramaribo.

The directors and members were honoured to welcome Ambassador Liselle Blankendal and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Albert Ramdin, who both expressed their appreciation for the diverse representation of businesses and the collaborative efforts showcased.

The SGCC booth features a mix of exhibitors from both Guyana and Suriname, highlighting the strong bilateral trade relations between the two countries.

Present from Guyana were M. Sookhai & Co, Quality Deliverer, and International SOS. Representing Suriname; Kroon-Oil, Optiek Ninon, RCFA Accountants and Tax Advisors, and SOGLASS. From Trinidad, Ardant Solutions underscored the regional collaboration that drives our industries forward.

The SGCC pavilion provides an excellent platform for our members to network, explore new business opportunities, and engage with industry leaders. The interactive and informative setup of the booth has garnered positive feedback from visitors, further enhancing our mission to foster economic growth and bilateral cooperation.

In addition to showcasing our members, the SGCC is actively promoting the upcoming International Business Conference in Guyana from October 1517, 2024.

This event will focus on facilitating B2B meetings across 14 sectors, providing a comprehensive guide for investing and doing business in Guyana. The conference will feature both general business guidance and specific sector presentations and panels followed by dedicated B2B meetings, creating a dynamic environment for networking and collaboration.

The event will be replicated in Suriname in early 2025, continuing our commitment to strengthening regional trade and investment.

research capacity, thereby enabling students, especially those from the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences (FEES) and the Faculty of Natural Sciences (FNS), to engage in meaningful research endeavours aimed at preserving the planet and safeguarding human existence.

Chairperson of the GMCS Board of Directors,

Speaking on behalf of the IDB in Guyana, Representative Lorena Salazar highlighted the importance of preserving the Amazon rainforest, and highlighted the need for comprehensive approaches to conservation.

Ms. Salazar noted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration involving governments, private sectors, and civil society organisations to protect the Amazon’s biodiversity and promote sustainable practices.

Along with the signing of the MoU, the GMCS hosted its Second Biennial Symposium, held under the theme: “Foundations of Sustainability: The People and Resources of the Barima-Mora Passage”. The Symposium provided a platform for researchers to showcase their findings related to the Barima-Mora Passage. Topics ranged from floral species’ abundance and wildlife monitoring to community involvement in mangrove conservation and advances in mangrove monitoring technology. These presentations shed light on the ecological importance of the BMP and underscored the need for concerted efforts to preserve its ecosystems. In attendance at the singing were officials from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Lab Guyana, European Union, Iwokrama, British High Commission, Greater Guyana Initiative, and staff and students of the University of Guyana, among others.

University of Guyana Vice Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin (left) and Vice Chairperson of the Guyana Marine Conservation Society (GMCS) Board of Directors, Dr Arianne Harris, signing the Memorandum of Understanding at the UG Education Lecture Theatre

Ambassador Liselle Blankendal and Suriname Minister of Foreign Affairs Albert Ramdin, along with members of the Suriname Guyana Chamber of Commerce

GYSBI to offer full educational scholarships to 10 Reg 3 students

Guyana Shore Base Inc. (GYSBI) has expanded its Technical Scholarship programme, thereby allowing ten persons from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) to pursue educational opportunities at the Georgetown and Leonora Technical Institutes.

This initiative will cover expenses such as travelling, uniforms, study materials, registration, and examination fees.

The Executive Director of GYSBI, Robin Muneshwer, has said this initiative is specifically geared at students in Region Three, since GYSBI, though known for its shore base services, also specializes in construction, and has been executing works over the past year at the proposed Gas-to-Energy site in Wales, West Bank Demerara.

The company was contracted by LINDSAYCA CH4, which was hired by the Government of Guyana for the con-

struction of an integrated Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) extraction plant and the establishment of a 300MW power generation facility; to execute earth and soil remediation and surcharge works at the project site. As such, Muneshwer noted that the company wants to give back in a tangible way to the communities in that region.

“Before working

with LINDSAYCA CH4, GYSBI was hired by ExxonMobil Guyana to carry out the Early Works and Heavy Haul Road Project at the site. This encompassed the erection of five bridges, an access road, a heavy transport road, and the preliminary site groundwork for the Integrated Plant Site. Our presence in this region has been established over a short period of

time, and we aim to make a significant impact. This will be achieved not only through our part in this transformative Gas-toEnergy project, but also by making investments especially in these students, who represent the future of this region.”

The programme is designed to offer internships to successful applicants during their semester breaks, so that they

can gain valuable handson training and knowledge transfer. At the end of their studies, they will also be offered full employment within the company.

In an invitation to comment, the General Manager of GYSBI, Robert Albiez, has said the organization's goal is to develop a programme that would be of use to young Guyanese, and would ensure that they are constructively engaged and equipped with valuable life skills.

He noted that while the GYSBI scholarship was initially launched in 2023 and currently has a cohort of 11 students drawn from eight regions across Guyana, the company wants to make a bigger impact and cover its expanded footprint in Region Three.

The GYSBI Scholarship stemmed from the realization that while many Guyanese possess the experience and technical skills needed to fill the positions on the operations side of the

oil and gas sector, they lacked the proper academic certification. It therefore aims to build a cadre of qualified workers, supervisors and managers for the oil and gas, construction, and other sectors of the economy.

As it relates to eligibility, anyone between the ages of 16 and 25, who has been accepted for a programme at the Leonora or Georgetown Technical Institutes (new and current students) and is willing to serve an internship at GYSBI during semester breaks, can apply.

Students from the West Bank of Demerara as well as children of staff members who are employed on the Gas-toEnergy Project will receive special consideration. Each beneficiary of this initiative will have their yearly academic expenses up to the sum of $500,000 fully paid.

The deadline for submission of applications is June 30th, 2024. Further information can be found on our website and social media platforms.

Conservation, viable use of oceans, seas & marine resources crucial for sustainable development

The United Nations (UN) System in Georgetown, in collaboration with the French Diplomatic Office, has hosted an edition of ‘Blue Talks’, a multi-stakeholder discussion and debate intended to support preparations for the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), slated for June 2025.

In his opening remarks, delivered ahead of World Oceans Day, which is observed today, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat highlighted Guyana’s commitment to “balance economic development and preservation of the environment.”

Acknowledging that the 2025 Oceans Conference would be held under the theme ‘Accelerating action and

mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean’, Bharrat welcomed statements from a group of more than fifty participants while highlighting Guyana’s global climate leadership.

These ‘Blue Talks’, which follow similar events planned by France and Costa Rica, have socialized subjects directly relevant to Guyana’s coastal and oceanic ecosystems. Speakers from national government authorities, the private sector, the UN System, civil society, and non-governmental organizations spoke of issues regarding sustainable fisheries and aquaculture; financing sustainable ocean management; the diversification of the blue economy; the criticality of science, data, analytics; and innovation in

oceans management, as well as efforts to reduce all forms of marine pollution.

UN Resident Coordinator Yesim Oruç highlighted that the 2025 Ocean Conference would seek to accelerate ‘Life

“Guyana, as a coastal nation rich in vast oceanic resources, faces challenges that require a multidimensional and collaborative approach, urgent attention, and concerted action.”

He encouraged all stakeholders to continue contributing to further policy discussions and the formulation of nationally agreed messages that would be taken to the 2025 Oceans Conference, while reaffirming France’s steadfast support for climate action and ocean sustainability.

Below Water’, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. She explained that UN General Assembly resolution 78/128 “states a global emergency in our oceans: sea level rise, ocean heating, ocean acidification, and deoxygenation,” and called on all stakeholders to urgently promote integrated, multi-stakeholder responses to promote sustainable use of the world’s oceans. And she welcomed the practical, action-oriented advice of participants. This edition of the ‘Blue Talks’ is an initiative of the Chargé d’Affaires of the French Diplomatic Office in Guyana. JeanJacques Forté has said,

Flashback: The 2023 GYSBI Technical Scholarship awardees

Minister Vickram Bharrat addressing the multi-stakeholder discussion on Wednesday

Another 5 families receive core homes in Reg 3

As Government stays true to its vision of providing a better quality of life for all, another five families on Friday received keys to their brand-new homes under the Core Home Support programme.

The handing-over signals new beginnings for these families, who once had to endure less-than-desirable living conditions. Minister Susan Rodrigues, Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, shared in the proud moment with the Stanford, Duncan, and Paul families earlier this afternoon as she handed over their keys and Certificates of Inspection.

Leon Standford, with his wife and two children, will soon be moving into his new home at Westminster, as would Helena Duncan and her family of four; while Sophia Paul, with her three children and one granddaughter, will be moving into her home at Recht-door-Zee, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

Having received his keys, Standford expressed his gratitude to the InterAmerican Development Bank, the Government, and the Ministry s team, whom he said were relentless in seeing the project to the end.

He explained that, for years, he and his family had occupied a wooden structure, which they had recently demolished to pave the way for the construction of his new home, once he learned he had qualified for the Core Home under the Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility programme.

We had a small wood-

en house, and I didn't have all the convenience. I have a wife and two kids, one of my daughters is writing CXC, and now we all have a place we can call home, Stanford expressed.

Similar sentiments were expressed by Helena Duncan, who said it finally feels great to have her own home, without the fear of being asked to va-

cate at any time; and she can finally put her personal touch on making the house a home for herself, two daughters and granddaughter.

For Paul, moving into her own home marks the end of her paying thousands of dollars in rent.

Minister Rodrigues has congratulated these first-time homeowners, noting that she is pleased to see the programme meeting its intended target audience.

The Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Program is a main feature in our housing programme, and targets the most vulner-

able population; and that is through the Core Home Support component, and this allows families to acquire a home almost free of cost, she explained.

Each home features two bedrooms, a kitchen unit, and indoor sanitary facilities, and each home is valued at $5 million. The homeowners have each made a contribution of $100,000 to the realization of their dreams.

Since the start of the programme in 2017, a total of one hundred and five families have to date each received keys to their homes. Under the Core Home Support initiative, a total of 323 beneficiaries have been selected, with 96 Core Homes occupied, 16 being under construction, another eight to soon be handed over, and 188 being at the procurement stage.

In Region Three, West Bank Demerara, 124 beneficiaries were selected, 50 homes have been handed over, 40 are being occupied, and 64 are at the procurement stage.

Two of the recipients receiving the keys to their new homes

One of the core homes that were handed over on Friday

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Take a step back and wrap your head around what's possible. Getting worked up over something you cannot change is pointless. Focus on areas that help you gain ground financially and physically.

Align yourself with someone heading down a similar path. Researching, sharing information and participating in a group effort will lead to opportunity. Budget wisely.

Don't settle for less. Dig deep and gather the facts and figures, and you'll find a way to get what you want. Contact experts to discover a way to deal with a problem. Stay calm.

Your words and actions will affect your reputation. Live up to your promises and be persuasive. You need to go the distance if you want to make a difference.

Surround yourself with people who stand by your side. Build a solid foundation. Choose wisely and flourish. Look at the people in your life and think about how you treat them, and how they treat you.

You'll face opposition if you try to bend the rules or take on too much. It's time to adjust your routine and how you handle others. An exciting offer will grab your attention.

Speak up and demonstrate what you can offer. Refuse to let your emotions get in the way of progress. Learn from experience regarding love. Your actions will be crucial.

Learn or try something new and exciting. Participate in an event that encourages creativity and personal growth. Don't feel you must spend a fortune to find happiness.

You'll be drawn to negative situations if you are careless or don't protect yourself from people who thrive on chaos and deception. Distance yourself from thorny situations.

Set a budget. Don't feel obligated to keep up financially or pay for others. An innovative change to your plans will remove the pressure you feel to overspend.

Fend for yourself, rely on your resourcefulness and make your surroundings functional. Set boundaries when dealing with complex individuals. Refuse to argue.

A change will do you good. Don't engage in something you don't like or let temptation lead you astray. Put your heart and soul into something that brings you pleasure and peace of mind.

Kirton, Gordon and Heyliger sparkle in landmark Canada win

The Associates have struck twice in two days. Group C and D might have been the groups of death leading up to the T20 World Cup 2024, but for the moment the blockbuster results are coming out of Group A. After USA shocked Pakistan in Dallas on Thursday, it was Canada's turn to stun a Full Member side on Friday as they beat Ireland by 12 runs in New York to record their first-ever T20 World Cup win.

The focus was all on the surface in New York and while Canada found the going tough early on, Nicholas Kirton and Shreyas Movva steadied the ship to take them to 137 for 7 in their 20 overs. This was the first time in five innings that a team had managed to

breach the 100-run mark in New York this World Cup.

And it proved to be enough. The Canada bowlers were all over the Ireland batters in the chase. They did not let them get away in the power play before Junaid Siddiqui and

SCOREBOARD

Canada (20 ovs maximum)

Aaron Johnson c Campher

b Young 14

Navneet Dhaliwal c Dockrell

b Adair 6

Pargat Singh c Little

b Young 18

Dilpreet Bajwa

c & b Delany 7

Nicholas Kirton c Balbirnie

b McCarthy 49

Shreyas Movva † run out

(McCarthy/†Tucker) 37

Dilon Heyliger c Little

b McCarthy 0

Saad Bin Zafar (c)not out 1

Extras (w 5) 5

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 6.85) 137/7

Did not bat: Kaleem Sana, Junaid Siddiqui, Jeremy Gordon

Fall of wickets: 1-12 (Navneet Dhaliwal, 2.2 ov), 2-28 (Aaron Johnson, 4.6 ov), 3-42 (Pargat Singh, 6.5 ov), 4-53 (Dilpreet Bajwa, 8.1 ov), 5-128 (Nicholas Kirton, 18.4 ov), 6-128 (Dilon Heyliger, 18.6 ov), 7-137 (Shreyas Movva, 19.6 ov) •

DRS

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Mark Adair

Josh Little

Craig Young

Barry McCarthy

Gareth Delany

4-0-23-1

4-0-37-0

4-0-32-2

4-0-24-2

2-0-10-1

Curtis Campher 2-0-11-0

Ireland (T: 138 runs from 20 ovs)

Andy Balbirnie

c & b Junaid Siddiqui 17

Paul Stirling (c) c †Movva

b Gordon 9

Lorcan Tucker † run out (Kirton/Saad Bin Zafar) 10

Harry Tector

b Saad Bin Zafar 7

Curtis Campher c Johnson

b Heyliger 4

George Dockrell not out 30 Gareth Delany c †Movva

b Heyliger 3

Mark Adair

c & b Gordon 34

Barry McCarthy not out 2

Extras (b 3, lb 1, w 5) 9

TOTAL 20 Ov (RR: 6.25) 125/7

Did not bat: Josh Little, Craig Young Fall of wickets: 1-26 (Paul Stirling, 5.4 ov), 2-32 (Andy Balbirnie, 6.2 ov), 3-41 (Harry Tector, 7.4 ov), 4-50 (Lorcan Tucker, 9.6 ov), 5-53 (Curtis Campher, 10.5 ov), 6-59 (Gareth Delany, 12.3 ov), 7-121 (Mark Adair, 19.2 ov) • DRS

BOWLING O-M-R-W Kaleem Sana 4-0-38-0

Jeremy Gordon 4-0-16-2

Junaid Siddiqui 4-0-27-1

Saad Bin Zafar 4-0-22-1 Dilon Heyliger 4-0-18-2

able to understand how to go about the chase. Saad and Siddiqui attacked the stumps, hardly giving the batters anything to work with: 33 of the 48 balls they bowled finished on a wicket-to-wicket line, according to ESPNcricinfo's data. The surface seemed to slow up a touch in the second half and the two spinners made sure to take full toll.

took a lovely catch at deep backward square leg diving to his left. And when Gareth Delany fell in the 13th over with the Ireland score on 59, an early finish was on the cards.

Adair, Dockrell give Ireland hope, but Canada prevail

over.

Saad Bin Zafar applied the squeeze in the middle overs. When Ireland slipped to 59 for 6 in the 13th over, it seemed all but over for them. Mark Adair and George Dockrell resurrected the Irish innings and put on 62 for the seventh wicket, but Jeremy Gordon and Dilon Heyliger held their own at the death to deliver Canada a famous win. Ireland were restricted to 125 for 7 and have now lost two in two.

Gordon helps Canada take powerplay honours

On an uneven surface and a sluggish outfield, a chase of 138 was always going to be a tricky ask. Canada's defence did not get off to the best of starts with Kaleem Sana unable to control the early movement. But Gordon understood the lengths to bowl on the surface from the get-go and the rest of the bowlers followed suit. Ireland could only manage two fours in the first six overs – one in the first over and one in the sixth. In between, there were plenty of swishes and misses from Paul Stirling and Andy Balbirnie and hardly any decent connections.

Gordon's relentless lengths got the better of Stirling in the final over of the powerplay when he could only manage a top edge on his attempted heave, with the wicketkeeper taking a comfortable catch. He fell for an uncharacteristic 9 off 17 and Ireland's innings went downhill thereon.

Ireland slip, slide, and stumble It was complete Canadian domination in the next seven overs or so with Ireland un-

Balbirnie fell second ball after the powerplay, caught and bowled by Siddiqui. Saad struck next with a straight ball that breached Harry Tector's defences. Lorcan Tucker inexplicably ran himself out in the 10th over before Heyliger sent back Curtis Campher with a little help from Aaron Johnson, who

With the equation reading 64 off 30 after 15 overs and only four wickets in hand, Ireland needed nothing short of a miracle to pull this off. Dockrell gave Ireland a chance when he bashed Siddiqui for a four and six in the 16th over before Adair produced a similar result against Sana in the next. Heyliger, however, kept his cool to only concede eight runs in the 18th

Sana's 19th went for 11, which meant Gordon had 16 runs to defend in the final over. And he did it expertly. There were no full balls, only the hard-length stuff and there was nothing Adair could do. He played and missed the first ball and top-edged the next. Barry McCarthy came in and hacked across the line three times, but couldn't get much out of it.

And when Dockrell mistimed his heave to long-on off the final ball, celebrations began in the Canada dugout. This was just the third time Canada had beaten Ireland in T20Is. They are the only Full Member team they have beaten in the format. (ESPNcricinfo)

Motie shortlisted for ICC...

Motie took three for 25 in the opening contest to restrict the tourists’ chase and he backed that performance up with another impressive spell of three for 22 to stifle the middle order in the second fixture. Another two wickets in the final match turned the tide in favour of the hosts once more and allowed the 29-year-old to claim the Player-of-the Series accolade.

Shaheen Shah Afridi (PAK)

Pakistan’s frontline pacer is nominated for the second successive month after another blistering spell of fast bowling in May. Afridi took 10 wickets in his five T20I contests during the month, which included three consecutive three-wicket hauls. Spells of three for 49 and three for 14 against Ireland helped Pakistan overturn a series deficit to win in Dublin, before the 24-yearold followed up with three for 36 against England in Birmingham. The threetime nominee has never won a Men’s Player-ofthe-Month award, but has a strong case to claim his maiden prize.

Lorcan Tucker (IRE)

The wicketkeeper-batter aims to become the first Irish winner of the Men’s Player-of-the-Month award since Harry Tector in May 2023, and is nominated thanks to explosive

run-scoring feats during a busy month of international competition. Tucker topscored for Ireland in the second and third matches against Pakistan with successive quickfire scores of 51 and 73, and carried that momentum into the tri-series against Scotland and Netherlands, hitting 40 and 55 as Ireland sealed confidence-boosting wins ahead of their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup campaign.

ICC Women’s Player of the Month Nominees for May:

Chamari Athapaththu (SL)

Athapaththu has been no stranger to personal accolades in recent months, and continued her inspiring form in May as Sri Lanka booked their place at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in Bangladesh with victory at the Qualifier in Abu Dhabi. The captain topped the runscoring charts at the event, and recorded 151 runs and six wickets in May’s contests. Once qualification was sealed, Athapaththu saved her best performance for last, smashing 102 in 63 balls against Scotland in a Player-of-the-Match performance, which guided her side to the trophy.

Kathryn Bryce (SCO)

Despite missing the final match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier last month through injury, Player of

the Tournament Bryce spearheaded an historic campaign for Scotland which saw them qualify for their first-ever women’s World Cup event. Chasing 100 for victory against Thailand, Bryce came in after an early wicket to steer her side to victory with a commanding unbeaten 63 in 58 balls. With qualification on the line against Ireland in the semi-final, Bryce produced more heroics, dismissing both of Ireland’s openers in the first over on her way to career-best figures of four for eight runs before hitting the winning runs in her 35 not out to cue jubilant celebrations.

Sophie Ecclestone (ENG) Ecclestone sits at the top of the ICC Women’s T20I and One-Day International (ODI) Bowler Rankings, and demonstrated her prowess in both formats with impressive performances in May. The left-arm spinner was a threat throughout England’s double series triumph over Pakistan, taking five wickets in the T20I contests, and six wickets in the ODIs. Among her highlights from the month was a commanding spell of three for 11 in the second T20I at Northampton, and back-toback three-wicket hauls in both of the completed ODI encounters, earning her the Player-of-the-Series prize. (Sportsmax)

Shreyas Movva batted solidly after Canada slipped to 53 for 4

Saad Bin Zafar celebrates Harry Tector's wicket

SATURDAY,

Panama down Golden Jags 2-0

It was a disappointing start to their FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign for the Guyana senior men’s national football team, the Golden Jaguars on Thursday night at the Rommel Fernandez Stadium in Panama City, Panama.

Taking on the hosts, Guyana’s starting XI of Captain Elliot Bonds, Goalkeeper Quillan Roberts, Leo Lovell, Terrence Vancooten, Jalen Jones, Curtez Kellman, Liam Gordon, Nathan Ferguson, Nathan Moriah- Welsh, Stephen Duke-McKenna and Omari Glasgow did well to keep the Panamanians at bay for the first 45 minutes, but missed some key chances themselves.

However, in the sec-

ond segment, Cristian Martinez broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute with a goal inside the box, connecting on a pass over the top from Adalberto Carrasquilla, and Jose Rodriguez made it a two-goal lead for the

hosts in the 65th with a one-hit finish on the other end of a service from Edgar Barcenas.

The Golden Jaguars will now turn their attention to a clash with Belize next Tuesday, set for the Wildey Turf, Barbados.

Motie shortlisted for ICC Player-of-theMonth award for May

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West Indies slow left-arm orthodox bowler Gudakesh Motie is reaping the benefits of his consistent performances in recent times, as he has been shortlisted for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Playerof-the-Month awards, which celebrates the outstanding performers from international competition in May.

The Guyanese, who is currently on duty with the West Indies at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, is joined by Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Ireland's Lorcan Tucker on the men's list released by ICC on Friday. The women's list is headlined by Sri Lankan Captain Chamari Athapaththu, with England's Sophie Ecclestone and Scotland Captain Kathryn Bryce, the other nominees.

Motie, 29, earned a nomination after his Player-ofthe-Series exploits in West Indies whitewash series triumph over South Africa. Similarly, Pakistan pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi enjoyed a prolific wicket-taking month in his side’s T20 International (T20I) tours of Ireland and England last month, while Ireland's wicketkeeper-batsman Tucker recorded consistent scores against Pakistan, Netherlands, and Scotland in his side’s preparations for the T20 World Cup.

Like Motie, Afridi and

Tucker are both on duty at the T20 World Cup being hosted in the Caribbean and United States.

Meanwhile, two stars from the recently-concluded ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are nominated in the Women’s Player-of-theMonth category, alongside an England spin sensation.

Sri Lankan skipper Athapaththu is nominated for the second month in a row after topping the run-scoring charts in Abu Dhabi and hitting a sparkling century in the final match. She is joined by Scotland skipper Bryce, who led her side to an historic first qualification for a women’s World Cup event thanks to memorable individual contributions. England’s Ecclestone is the third name in contention, nominated for more wicket-taking feats as her side overcame Pakistan in both shorter formats last month.

An independent ICC Voting Academy and fans around the world will now be invited to cast their votes to decide the winners, which will be announced next week. Fans are now able to vote for their favourite performers at icc-cricket.com/awards.

ICC Men’s Player of the Month Nominees for May: Gudakesh Motie (WI) The West Indies’ left-

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A look at the Golden Jaguars’ encounter with Panama on Thursday night (Nichole Arias photo)

arm spinner enjoyed plenty of success in the home series against South Africa in May, taking eight wickets across three matches at an average of 8.50, as the hosts sealed a statement 3-0 victory in Jamaica.

Guyana’s Gudakesh Motie is up for the ICC Player-of-theMonth accolade for May

No underestimating the underdogs, as Uganda face their role models Windies tonight

When Uganda take the field today against West Indies for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup Group C clash at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), it will be an emotional moment for most of the African team, who are playing their first World Cup.

Not only will Uganda be on a high, coming off of a win against Papua New Guinea earlier this week, but they will be battling players whom they look up to as role models in the sport.

Speaking about the impending moment and the emotions associated with it was Uganda’s wicketkeeper-batsman Simon Ssesazi.

Ssesazi shared in a prematch press conference on Friday, “It’s actually going to be historic, playing a team you’ve always been seeing on TV. Some of us, our roles models are in West Indies. West Indies is our second team apart from Uganda, every time you see West Indies play, it’s like you’re there. Myself, I only support West Indies in any format of the game, that’s the attachment I have for the West

Indies team.

“Playing them for the first time in my life, it’s actually going to be a blessing for me. I believe we may not ‘win’ as I say, but just wait for the underdogs. It’s going to be fire. Saturday night is going to be fire.”

As they gear up for their second game of the World Cup thus far, the Men in Maroon, especially considering how their first game unfolded, will not be taking any team, big or small, for granted; as related by all-rounder Roston Chase.

“As I said, it’s a World Cup, every team is coming here to win, so you can’t take any team lightly. Even in the first game that we played, we were on the back

foot a bit. So, it’s clear to see that any team can win on the day, so you have to take every game very serious and go out there and play your best game, every game,” Chase shared.

Also not buying into the ‘big team, small team’ notion was Ssesazi, who sees the playing field as level once you get to the World Cup.

The Ugandan batter shared, “Cricket is cricket and mostly T20, anything can happen. The person you call an underdog really gives you a big bite and you feel it. So, I don’t prefer this ‘big team, small team’ in cricket, every team is the same. You know, reaching

the World Cup, that means you’re all on the same level, that means you expect the same energy from the big teams and small teams, you never underestimate any team and depending on the wickets we’re playing on, anything can happen.”

RBL CPL 2024…

Back to the Men in Maroon, Chase spoke of the importance of the fans’ support and what it can do to motivate the players throughout the competition.

Chase explained, “I would expect from the home fans to really rally around

the team. I mean, everyone may have their own opinions: they think this person should be playing or that person shouldn’t be playing, but I just think that it’s a case where the team is already selected, so, whoever is here just back them 100 per cent, just give them the support.”

“When I go out there and the fans ae giving us that support, as you say, it’s like a 12th man, it gives you that extra push, that extra boost. You may be tired, but then when you see the fans rallying, it gives you some energy,” he further stated.

The battle at Providence will bowl off at 20:30h tonight.

Patriots sign Stubbs, Royals sign de Kock as more teams announce retentions

In holding on to the majority of their regional players, the Barbados Royals have confirmed the players they have retained and signed ahead of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) draft. They have 14 confirmed players for the 2024 season and will have three spots to fill at the draft in July.

South African batters Quinton de Kock and David Miller return for the Royals in 2024 to give their line-up explosive power while overseas bowlers Maheesh Theekshana, Naveen ul Haq and Keshav Maharaj will also be with the Barbados franchise this season.

Captain Rovman Powell returns alongside other West Indian play-

A look at the retained and signed players for the Barbados

ers such as Jason Holder, Obed McCoy, Ramon Simmonds, Rahkeem Cornwall, Alick Athanaze, Kevin Wickham, Nyeem Young, and Rivaldo Clarke.

On the other hand, the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots have 13 confirmed players

for the 2024 season and will have four spots to fill at the draft in July.

South African batter Tristan Stubbs, Sri Lankan legspinner Wanindu Hasaranga and another South African in Rilee Rossouw headline their 2024 signings, with

A look at the retained and signed players for the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots

Zimbabwean international Sikandar Raza and Sri Lankan seam bowler Nuwan Thusara also in the squad.

Guyanese Sherfane Rutherford and Ashmead Nedd have been retained by the Patriots, with Evin

Lewis, Andre Fletcher, Joshua DaSilva, Dominic Drakes and Johan Layne among the other retentions.

Finally, former Guyana Amazon Warriors player Odean Smith has been transferred to the Patriots for 2024.

The Barbados Royals will begin their campaign on Sunday, September 1 against the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, while the Patriots will get going on the very first day of the tournament, also against the Falcons on Thursday, August 29.

Uganda’s Simon Ssesazi

West Indies will be warm and ready for Uganda’s challenge tonight

Royals