Guyana Times - Saturday, May 4, 2024.pdf

80 allottees identify house lots at Great Diamond P10

PPP Congress to consider removal of Marxism-Leninism from Party’s constitution

Guyana, Jamaica ink MoU for collaboration in media, mass communication

See story on page 11

Guyana appoints new diplomats to Brazil, Switzerland & Belgium

GRA reviewing invoices in 2nd oil audit to detect overstatements – VP Jagdeo

– says ExxonMobil will have to explain false declaration in court – as 32nd Congress opens today with over 3000 delegates

High Court Judge dismisses 2nd attempt

Linden man busted with ganja at Providence gets 4 years, fined $11M

Govt working to expand national protected areas to 20%

Ramsay Ali returns as Head of GMSA Prisoner charged with murder of fellow inmate at Lusignan Prison

Guyana’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Brazil, Professor Compton Bourne

Guyana’s Ambassador to Belgium and Representative to the EU, Sasenarine Singh

Guyana’s Ambassador to Switzerland and the UN Representative in Geneva, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

Father of 4 killed after rescuing fellow villager from attackers

Forty-four-year-old Joseph Forde, a contractor of Middle Street, Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was chopped and shot to death by a group of men who were angered by his intervention to rescue a fellow villager from their brutal attacks.

The man’s wife, Shewanna Burnett, told Guyana Times that, on Tuesday, her husband was heading to the Plaisance Line Top when he came across four men who were brutally assaulting a resident. He was riding his bicycle at the time, so he dis-

mounted and went to the man’s aid. Forde reportedly rescued the man and transported him to the hospital for treatment.

Since the occurrence of this incident, the woman explained, her husband had been subjected to threats from the group.

On Thursday, at around 21:00h, Forde left his home to go to the Plaisance Railway Embankment, and while there, he was attacked by the same group of men. He reportedly was forcibly removed from his bicycle and badly beaten before being chopped about his body. He reportedly was

eventually shot by one of the suspects.

Forde’s wife explained that she was at home when she received news of the incident. And upon rushing to the scene, she saw her husband’s motionless body lying in a pool of blood. He was later pronounced dead.

“My husband was a quiet person; anyone can attest to that. He had a passion for helping and rescuing people. I demand justice for him! They’ve taken him away from his family, from his children,” the grieving woman expressed.

She also revealed that one suspect has been arrested following the incident, while the others remain at large.

“My husband and I have been living together for over 20 years. We have three girls: 19, and a twin that is 15, and one boy that is 17. I am trying to hold up for my children. My children are not taking this well. My son is supposed to be writing CXC next couple of days from now, so this is very hard for him. My husband was a very respectable person”, the woman has said.

Arson suspected as fire guts Berbice house

Afire on Thursday evening destroyed a house at Heathburn Village, East Bank Berbice (EBB), Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

The house was occupied by Aliya Jackson, 22, a part-time worker attached to the National Psychiatric Hospital, along with her husband and three-year-old child.

At the time of the blaze, Jackson had gone to New Amsterdam to purchase food, but while in the township, she received reports that her home was on fire.

“I get a call from my friend saying that my house is on fire. I didn’t leave nothing on at home in my house. After I talking to my friend, meh cousin who is also my neighbour called me and tell me that my whole house bun down.”

Jackson said the stove could not have been left on,

because she did not cook for the day nor did she leave any appliances plugged into any electricity outlets.

“Nothing wasn’t plugged in; the only thing that was on was the downstairs light and the upstairs light. Nothing else; no charger or anything left plugged in. My freezer, I defrosted it and cleaned it and never put it on back.”

According to Jackson, no other occupants could have left something plugged in since they were both out for a few days.

“It does normally be me; my son and my child's father end up spending some time with his mother and he went with his son.”

According to Jackson, she also had important documents for her father in the house.

“The most painful thing is that my father is not there and I lost everything for him;

everything. His ID card, his bank card, his passport... I lost everything for my threeyear-old son’s things; I lost everything for me, the only thing I have is my ID and bank cards.”

According to the young woman, she was told by an aunt that a cousin of hers who is mentally unstable was seen running away from the house when the fire was spotted.

“His head isn’t too right... If he is my cousin and he see my house on fire, why he running if he didn’t do it? I can’t see that; I didn’t have nothing plugged on in my kitchen – no gas on and the fire start from my kitchen at the back,” the distraught woman stated.

The building was owned by her father, who is currently in the interior working. The Fire Service and the Police have launched an investigation into the blaze.

Dead: Joseph Forde

What is left of the house after the blaze

One of the occupants of the house, Aliya Johnson

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Saturday, May 4 – 01:30h-03:00h and Sunday, May 5 – 02:30h-04:00h and 13:00h-13:45h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, May 4 –13:10h-14:40h and Sunday, May 5 – 14:25h-15:55h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery to light rain showers are expected throughout the day and at night. Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 13:51h reaching a maximum height of 2.49 metres.

Low Tide: 07:24h and 19:48h reaching minimum heights of 0.77 metre and 0.68 metre.

Guyana appoints new diplomats to Brazil, Switzerland & Belgium

The Guyana Government has filled some top diplomatic postings in several countries, including neighbouring Brazil, and has bolstered its representation at various international bodies.

In a statement on Friday, the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry announced three new diplomatic appointments. These are as follows: Professor Compton Bourne has been named Ambassadordesignate to Brazil.

Professor Bourne is a former President of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), and has held senior positions in several regional and local institutions. This Guyanese official is also recipient of several regional awards, as well as the Order of Excellence – Guyana’s highest national award. Professor Bourne is author/ editor of 10 books and more than 50 scholarly papers, along with over 50 research reports for Caribbean governments, foreign governments and international institutions.

On Thursday, the Brazilian Government announced that it has approved Professor Bourne’s appointment as Guyana’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Brazil.

Dr Leslie Ramsammy has been appointed to serve as Guyana’s Ambassadordesignate to Switzerland.

Dr Ramsammy, a former Health Minister who is currently serving as Advisor to the Minister of Health, will also assume responsibilities as Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva.

And Sasenarine Singh, former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), has been appointed Ambassadordesignate to the Kingdom of Belgium. He will also be appointed as Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the European Union and the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS).

It previously was reported that former Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Paul Cheong, would replace Singh at the helm of GuySuCo.

According to the Foreign Ministry in Friday’s missive, these newly appointed diplomats will be taking up their positions shortly.

The Guyana Government has been placing much emphasis on

strengthening its foreign policy, which includes filling the various diplomatic posts at overseas missions. Only earlier this week, Guyana’s Ambassador to China, Anyin Choo, was accredited as the Non-Resident High Commissioner of Guyana to Singapore. Ambassador Choo presented her Letters of Credence to Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at Singapore’s Istana Presidential Palace on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, in February, former CEO of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Dr Richard Van West-Charles, was accredited as Guyana’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Venezuela.

Dr. Richard Van WestCharles presented his credentials to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on February 20 at the Miraflores Presidential

Palace in Caracas.

However, despite these new appointments, there are still diplomatic vacancies at some missions, such as the High Commission in India, which has been without a diplomat for nearly two years.

Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd had previously told <<Guyana Times>> that Government had already shortlisted several “suitable individuals who perform at very high standards for us” to fill the New Delhi office.

This post became vacant in October 2022 after Guyana’s then High Commissioner to India, Charrandas Persaud, was recalled following the circulation of a video which showed him verbally abusing a woman outside his official residence in New Delhi.

While an investigation by Indian authorities found

no evidence of misconduct during the August 2021 incident, which only came to light in 2022, President Dr Irfaan Ali, emphasising the importance of representatives of Guyana conducting themselves in the highest regard, had said it was in the “best interest” that Persaud return home.

Meanwhile, as part of efforts to strengthen its international relations, Guyana opened its embassy in Qatar last May – a move which President Ali has said would help the two countries to enhance their bilateral ties.

On the other hand, countries are also looking to establish their footprint in Georgetown, where massive economic activities are being undertaken. Already, the Dominican Republic has set up an Embassy in Georgetown, and a resident Ambassador, Ernesto Torres Pereyra, was accredited in May 2023.

Guyana’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Brazil, Professor Compton Bourne

Guyana’s Ambassador to Belgium and Representative to the EU, Sasenarine Singh

Guyana’s Ambassador to Switzerland and the UN Representative in Geneva, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

Editor: Tusika Martin

News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761

Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown

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

Focus on Families

Families play an important role in creating and sustaining peaceful and inclusive societies, indispensable for sustainable and inclusive development. Children growing up in stable and supportive families develop positive cognitive, emotional and social characters, thus becoming stable and peaceful adults.

There are several important aspects of stable family environments that ensure children’s well-being and early socialisation, such as secure attachment and the process of the transmission and acquisition of values.

This year, International Day of Families focused on “Families and climate change”, aiming to "raise awareness of how climate change impacts families, and the role families can play in climate action”.

According to the UN, in 1994, it officially declared the International Day of Families in response to the changing economic and social structures that are affecting the stability and structure of family units in different parts of the world. International Day of Families basically celebrates the fact that families are the central part of any society.

In Guyana, and across the Caribbean, countries have been struggling to maintain law and order within their respective territories, while simultaneously causing a reduction in the increasing levels of crime and criminality in their societies, which pose the most serious threat to their forward movement and the notion of national security.

While these countries have all approached the subject matter differently, most of them have failed in addressing the root causes. This is not as a result of poor management or the lack of adequate resources, but can be directly attributed to a breakdown in traditional family structures within our societies; the changing socioeconomic, domestic, and regional environment; the shifting of gender roles; the emergence of new and complex gender identities; and the changing dynamics of a world now driven by newer forms of information and communication technologies.

While all of the abovementioned factors are important to any discussion on solving the proliferation of crime within our regional economies, many researchers and policy makers underestimate the role of males and boys in growth and sustenance of the Region’s crime problem. In fact, little or no effort is made to reform our boy children to ensure that they are able to contribute in more meaningful, progressive and productive ways to the societies in which they live.

The truth is that most Caribbean men and boys are being poorly socialised, and are many times not given enough attention during their early years of development at home, in school, and within the wider society from adults who still arguably have the ability to mould them into right-thinking, right-acting, and upstanding menfolk who are employable, educated, and civilised men within their communities.

At an early age, boys within developing countries are told they must be tough, and that the burden to provide for their families still falls on their shoulders, despite the shifting gender roles and the advances made in gender equality. They are socialised to hide their weaknesses and sensitivities, and to shun anything that even slightly appears feminine.

We must re-educate our boys, therefore, and change how they perceive the importance of an education, despite the economic hardships and feminisation of this tool by the societies in which they dwell.

In Guyana, there is need to view the issue of male underperformance and underachievement with a sense of urgency and dispatch. Failing which, we are going to continue to witness the spread of a deviant strand of hyper-masculinity sweeping across the education system. This reconstruction of masculinity is already manifesting itself in all our schools. Our boys are wearing their school pants well below their waist, and at times exposing their undergarments. Those boys who wear the uniform correctly are teased and referred to as “old”.

We echo the call made by Dr Ralph Gonsalves, on February 14, 2023 at the 2nd International Energy Conference and Expo in Georgetown, Guyana, when he called on regional leaders to focus on the importance of the unique family structure in today’s society.

As a society, we need to refocus on the role of families and family policies in achieving more inclusive societies from regional perspectives. It is heartening to know, as announced previously, that the Government has reaffirmed its commitment to invest in programmes and policies that would seek to empower families and create the conditions in which strong, cohesive families can flourish.

PPP’s 32nd Congress will mark a milestone in Guyana’s political landscape by charting an inclusive, unified path for Guyana

Dear Editor,

The People's Progressive Party (PPP) is set to convene its 32nd Congress from May 3 to May 5, 2024, marking the first such event since 2016. This congress, delayed by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, represents a significant milestone in the PPP's commitment to fostering national unity and advancing progress in Guyana.

It will be evidence and a testament to the party's resilience and its commitment to national unity and progress. This pivotal event aims to solidify the Party’s vision under the theme "Strengthen the Party, Defend Guyana, Unite Our People for Progress and Prosperity." Importantly, Congress holds profound importance, as it seeks to reinforce the Party’s commitment to fostering a united and inclusive Guyana, while upholding its strong democratic values and safeguarding national securities that are crucial to the evolving development of our citizens’ wellbeing, and to the sovereignty of the state.

Without any doubt, the legacy of the Party’s founder Leader Dr. Cheddi Jagan’s dedication to democracy, social justice, and economic empowerment continues to be a guiding light for the PPP. Congress will reflect on his enduring principles, interpreting

them through the lenses of current global and national challenges to adapt and evolve while staying true to foundational values. This bridging of past and present is crucial as the Party looks to navigate the complexities of modern governance with integrity and foresight.

Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, as General Secretary, has adeptly steered the party through significant transitions, maintaining a course true to the Party's core ideologies while innovating in response to new political dynamics. His leadership has been pivotal in ensuring the Party's resilience and adaptability. A major highlight of the Congress will be Dr. Jagdeo’s comprehensive report, which is expected to be a detailed and dynamic presentation that will outline the strategic directions and achievements of the party; setting a blueprint for future initiatives. It is anticipated to cover not only the political, economic, and social aspects of the current landscape, but also touch upon international relations, reflecting the party's comprehensive approach to governance.

Likewise, President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s dynamic leadership is reshaping the Party’s approach to governance, and sets the tone for a new era. His tenure yet has been marked and footprinted by a vigorous push towards inclusivity and de -

velopment, notably through his “One Guyana” initiative, which aims to unify the nation's diverse ethnic and cultural groups. This initiative would also be enshrined in the heart and spirit of the Congress's agenda, embodying the Party's commitment to creating a cohesive national identity and promoting collective progress.

The Congress will also focus on further national development and the preservation of security, emphasizing unity among the Guyanese people. This pivotal component of the plan seeks to integrate all segments of Guyana’s diverse society into the governance process, ensuring equitable development and shared prosperity. By fostering a sense of belonging and participation among all citizens, the PPP aims to build a governance model that reflects the full spectrum of the nation's demographic and cultural richness.

Undoubtedly, the PPP will be showcasing its significant strides in governance at this event, and lay out a roadmap for the country's future. The occasion is anticipated to draw the Party's nationwide membership, reinforcing the party's foundation and bolstering confidence in its leadership, while introducing through internal elections fresh, dynamic members to the leadership ranks.

As the largest democratic national party in Guyana, the PPP holds a special place in the hearts of most Guyanese. The upcoming Congress will offer to the attending delegates and participants the opportunity for camaraderie, celebration and reflections that coincide with a period of significant national relief and positive optimism. Naturally, this follows the strides made since the PPP/C’s return to office, and its consequent push towards expansive development projects that promise substantial benefits for the nation.

Another core issue to be addressed is the commitment to ensuring free and fair elections, with a determined stance against any form of electoral manipulation. The PPP positions itself as a broad-based, patriotic Party dedicated to unifying Guyana, a sentiment expected to resonate deeply during the scheduled discussions. After a challenging victory in the 2020 elections, the PPP's leadership, under Dr. Jagdeo and Dr. Ali, has been re-energized. This Congress is not just a routine meeting; rather, it is a strategic gathering designed to prepare the Party for future electoral challenges, while celebrating past successes and planning for future growth.

President Dr Irfaan Ali, who also serves as the Chairman of Caricom, presided over the 37th Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government on Friday. He was joined by Ambassador Elisabeth Harper, Minister Deodat Indar, and others

Recruiting Indentured Indians

By Ravi Dev

As we saw with the first batches of Indentured Indians to British Guiana in 1838 on the Whitby and Hesperus, Mauritius was the model that was followed in terms of recruitment and shipment. But within a year, an inquiry into abuses on Gladstone’s Vreed-en-Hoop plantation led to a cessation of further shipments and several reforms, until it was resumed in 1845. One of the reforms starting in 1842 was to address abuses in the recruitment of emigrants by stipulating that intended emigrants had to appear in front of a magistrate and demonstrate a willingness to emigrate. Unfortunately, this was a process that would be repeated throughout the indentureship period to 1917, since the operators always devised ways to subvert the system.

From this point, emigration was controlled by the Government of India, which purported to protect Indian citizens’ interests so they were not deceived or coerced into leaving their homeland; that they knew their destination, and were conversant with their contractual obligations. The Government appointed a Protector of Emigrants, who was in charge of the entire emigration regime. But ultimately, this

was invariably bent to satisfy Imperial Interests that coincided with the planters’ interests in the colonies. As exemplified by the instance of Gladstone, WI Planters had a powerful lobby in the English Parliament and the local legislatures.

The sugar colonies soon created their own Emigration Agencies in the 1850s, headed by an Emigration Agent –frequently, they were retired Civil Servants - and established holding Depots near each other in the Garden Reach Dock area of Calcutta. This was replicated in Madras in South India. The complaints of abuse of the system however continued, and after a particularly scathing report from Mauritius, the Government responded by passing the Indian Emigration Act XIII of 1864, designed to consolidate the previous laws and regulations within one framework in order to repress abuses, regulate depot arrangements, and define the duties of the Protector.

With regard to recruitment, the Act required that recruiters be licensed, each licence was valid for one year, and could be cancelled for misconduct. The Act compelled the recruiter to appear with his recruits before the district magistrate, who would determine the circumstances of recruitment, ensure they were registered for the colony of their choice, and explain the contents of the contracts.

Following registration, the recruiter was required to provide adequate means of transportation and a competent subordinate to accompany the recruits to the main depot at Calcutta or Madras, where their emigration certificates would be examined by the Emigration Agent and countersigned by the Protector. Before embarkation, intending emigrants were to be medically examined and provided with descriptive passes, to be surrendered to the ship's captain. The Act defined the duties of the Protector, whose appointment was now full-time.

One of the tip-offs that all was not above board was when prospective emigrants were moved to districts other than their residences for registration. Section 30 of the Act, however, stated that recruits were to be registered in the district in which they were engaged – which could be anywhere. This meant that magistrates could not refuse to register emigrants merely because they were not residents of the district. From the mid-1860s, the different colonial agencies of Europe engaged Indian subagents because of the vast areas from which recruits were trawled. These liaised with the agent at Calcutta to collect and dispatch batches of recruits expeditiously. They did not actually recruit labour, but arranged for registration and rail transport to Calcutta.

The actual Recruiters – called “arkatis” in North India and petty maistris in South India - were employed by sub-agents, and either resided in the district in which they operated or in some large town in the province. They lurked outside towns, particularly near bridges and wells, where travellers frequently stopped to rest or refresh themselves. Railway (stations), melas, bazaars, and places of worship. Since more money was paid for recruiting women, those were especially targeted.

The lengths some people would go to, to defend a colossal wrong

Dear Editor,

A major casualty figure of the brutal PNC Regime was the murder of Dr Walter Rodney. His death marked the ultimate length a dictator could have gone to grind his opposers into the ground. There was no space for a Walter Rodney in a Guyana that Burnham was fashioning for himself.

Those who were supporters of the WPA party were also sad recipients of that rampage. Many had to flee for cover, as a relentless campaign of brute force was waged to rid "His country” -- as Burnham called it -- of subversive elements. It was the worst of times.

After suffering such ignominy, everyone is at a loss at the stance taken by one of Rodney's survivors, David Hinds. He has taken up the robust position of a servile supporter in the house of his oppressor. He stoutly defends every move

and every statement made by the PNC. He pledges allegiance to the oppressor, defending that colossal wrong done to himself and his party. It therefore churns the innards of an educated audience when this man speaks.

Hinds might be of the mistaken belief that he is getting through to the people out there; rather, he is making that huge mistake of exhibiting his emptiness in public.

We are all familiar with the fact that people who, for decades, have been sworn enemies could finally sit together and dwell together in an amicable atmosphere. However, when one of the calibre of David Hinds could enter into that pathetic position with his oppressor, comprehension is eluded!

Hinds has taken up the position of being an accuser of the PPP/C Government. He claims that the party

discriminates against people of colour. He asserts that the PPP/C fosters partisan politics, and as such has the African race subjugated, or being treated as second-class citizens.

Hinds is simply regurgitating the PNC vomit of blaming the misfortunes of the African race on the PPP/C Party. This is furthest from the truth, as the real facts debunk his theory. The greatest strides made in the Black Community were made during the reign of A PPP/C Government. We are speaking of progress in housing, squatting was regularized, and more Blacks became owners of their own homes during the PPP/C years. Salary increases became a regular feature for public servants, a place populated mainly by coloured people. We bring into focus "The Because We Care Programme," where the de-

mographic analysis shows a certain race benefitting greatly. It is an undeniable fact that Black People made more progress under a PPP/C Government than they ever did under the oppressive PNC. Poverty and mendicancy existed; this was permanently removed when the PPP/C Government came into office.

As I hasten to a close, I would put this question to Dr Hinds: Since the PNC so loved the Black Man, why did Dr Rodney die? Why did he meet an untimely death? But before Hinds makes himself more foolish in suggesting an answer, I would voluntarily give him one: Rodney went against the grain of the racist bigot Burnham, and for that reason he was given a summary execution.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

PPP’s 32nd Congress will mark...

As the PPP continues to solidify its position, the 32nd Congress would undoubtedly be a source of inspiration, strengthening the unity among its members and reinforcing confidence in its leadership, ensuring the party remains a dominant force in Guyanese politics for years to come. It will also serve as a venue for considering organizational strengthening strategies,

focusing on the development of key Party components like the Progressive Youth Organization (PYO) and the Women’s Progressive Organization (WPO).

These discussions are crucial as the Party prepares for the 2025 National and Regional Elections, aiming to maintain its momentum and leadership role in Guyana’s political arena. The 32nd Congress of the

PPP promises to be a transformative milestone in the Party's history. By blending tradition with contemporary challenges, the Party aims to strengthen its internal structures, defend national interests, and unite the country under a banner of progress and prosperity. As Guyana stands at a crossroads, the PPP’s leadership and the collective resolve of its membership are

poised to steer the nation towards a future that honours its past, while embracing the possibilities of tomorrow. This Congress is a decisive step in that journey, signalling the Party’s readiness to lead Guyana into a new era of inclusive and prosperous development.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

06:00 (Sign on) Inspiration Time

06:30

(2004)

Islam for Guyana

Movie - A Chef's Deadly Revenge (2024)

Indian emigrants at Depot in Garden Reach, Calcutta

Page Foundation

1. The number 2.75063 written correct to 3 decimal places is (A) 2.750 (B) 2.751 (C) 2.756 (D) 2.753

2. 3.3×2.5+ 5.7×2.5 = (A) 8.25 (B) 9.00 (C) 13.25 (D) 22.50

3.The number 5.14063 written correct to 3 decimal places is (A) 5.140 (B) 5.141 (C) 5.146 (D) 5.150

Birdshooting Season

By Olive SeniOr

Birdshooting season the men make marriages with their guns

My father’s house turns macho as from far the hunters gather All night long contentless women stir their brews: hot coffee chocolata, cerassie wrap pone and tie-leaf for tomorrow’s sport. Tonight the men drink white rum neat. In darkness shouldering their packs, their guns, they leave We stand quietly on the doorstep shivering. Little boys longing to grow up birdhunters too Little girls whispering: Fly Birds Fly.

CSEC MATHS

Title

Poet

Identify: Title: Poet:

Speaker/persona: Type of verse: Rhyme scheme: Theme: Mood

4. What percentage of 340 is 425? (A) 80% (B) 85% (C) 125% (D) 152%

5.0.0346 written in standard form is (A) 3.46x102 (B) 3.46x10 (C) 3.46x10-1 (D) 3.46x10-2

6. How many centimetres are there in 1.5 metres? (A) 0.015 (B) 15 (C) 150 (D) 1500

7. 11.1÷0.01 is equal to (A) 110 (B) 111

Metre: Poets use a range of different techniques when crafting their works, and one of the essentials that are employed in all poetry is metre. This aspect of a poem governs the length and rhythm of every line and is essential to the flow of the overall piece. Metre is made use of by paying attention to the syllables in each word of the line and then forming a pattern through these syllables. The poet has the ability to control the sound of the entire poem and create a harmonious relationship between each word and syllable by paying attention to their individual sounds.

To do this, the writer would break down each line, which is technically known as feet. Feet are individual units in every line of a poem and can be categorised depending on the number of syllables and which syllable gets stressed. Some examples of feet in poetry are:

• Trochee: A trochee denotes a two-syllable word in which the first syllable is stressed more. The flow of the words would appear like DUH-duh. An example of a trochee is the word "garden," in which the syllables are stressed as GAR-den. Using this metrical foot will make a line trochaic.

(C) 1100 (D) 1110

8. Written in scientific notation, 0.045x10-3 is (A) 4.5x10-6 (B) 4.5x10-5 (C) 4.5x10-4 (D) 4.5x10-1

9. The value of 0.386x0.06 is (A) 0.02316 (B) 0.2316 (C) 2.316 (D) 23.16

10. (-3)2 + (-2) 2 + (A) -13 (B) -10 (C) 13 (D) 25

Metre and Rhyme

• Iamb: An iamb is the opposite of a trochee as it’s a twosyllable word in which the second syllable is stressed, creating a duh-DUH sound. An example of an iamb is the word "delight," in which the latter syllable is stressed in its pronunciation as de-LIGHT. Using this foot will make a line iambic.

• Spondee: A spondee is a two-syllable word in which both syllables are equally stressed to create a DUH-DUH sound. An example of this would be the word "bookmark," which is pronounced as BOOK-MARK, and this line or word would be classified as spondaic.

• Dactyl: A dactyl foot is a three-syllable word in which the first syllable is stressed more than the latter two to create a DUHduh-duh sound. An example of a dactylic word is the word "poetry," which is pronounced as PO-e-try.

• Anapest: An anapestic word is a three-syllable word in which the final syllable is emphasised more than the first two to create a duh-duh-DUH sound. An example of an anapestic word is "unaware", which is pronounced like un-a-WARE.

These feet are employed and

repeated over the course of an entire line of poetry. By doing this, you, in turn, create a poetic metre. These metres are categorised by the number of feet in a line.

One foot: monometer

Two feet: dimeter

Three feet: trimeter

Four feet: tetrameter

Five feet: pentameter

Six feet: hexameter

Seven feet: heptameter

Eight feet: octameter

An example of this being used is in William Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18, which contains the famous line, "Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?" This line is written in iambic pentameter, meaning there are ten syllables that can be divided into five feet. This line is also in the iambic metre as the latter of each syllable in each foot is stressed. For example:

Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?

This line contains ten syllables, so it is a pentameter as it can be divided into five feet.

Shall I | compare | thee to | a sum | mer’s day

In each foot, it is the latter syllable that is stressed, meaning it’s written in iambic pentameter!

Shall I | compare | thee to | a sum| mer’s day

Rhyme scheme: The pattern of rhymes at the end of each verse or line in poetry. There are a number of different ways to approach creating a rhyme scheme, such as internal rhymes, identical rhymes, and slant rhymes. By structuring these repeated patterns and sounds throughout the lines, your stanzas flow into each other and create a rhythm.

Identifying and constructing rhyme schemes is usually done so by using the letters of the alphabet. This is done by matching the lines that rhyme with the same letter, such as ABAB or AABBCC. Some examples of the different types of rhyme schemes are:

• Alternate rhyme: An alternate rhyme is poem in which alternating lines rhyme. For example, the first and third-lines would rhyme, as would the second- and fourth-line. This would create the rhyme pattern ABAB. For example:

"I come from haunts of coot and her, (A)

I make a sudden sally (B)

And sparkle out among the fern, (A) To bicker down a valley." (B)

-The Brook, Alfred Tennyson

• Ballade: A ballade is a particular kind of poem that follows a set rhyme scheme as well as a stanza amount and length template. Typically, a ballade would follow the rhyme scheme ABABBCBC and have three eight-line stanzas, with the final stanza being four lines. In addition to this, the last lines of each of the stanzas are all the same, connecting the poem through a technique called a "refrain".

• Coupled rhyme: A coupled rhyme is a poem that is made up of a series of two-lined stanzas known as a rhyming couplet. These poems follow the rhyme scheme AA BB CC and continue with rhyming couplets until the final stanza.

• Monorhyme: With monorhymes, all the lines in a stanza, or sometimes even the entire poem, end with the same rhyme.

• Enclosed rhyme: In an enclosed rhyme scheme, the first and fourth-lines rhyme, as do the second and third-lines. This creates an ABBA pattern and creates the effect of the BB rhyme scheme being enclosed within the AA rhyme scheme. For example: "Beloved, my Beloved, when I think (A) That thou was in the world a year ago, (B) What time I sat alone here in the snow (B) And saw no footprint, heard the silence sink." (A) -Sonnet 29, Elizabeth Barret Browning (penguin.co.uk)

GRA reviewing invoices in 2nd oil audit to detect overstatements – VP Jagdeo

– says ExxonMobil will have to explain false declaration in court

Following the recent detection of a false declaration on oil well equipment that was imported on behalf of ExxonMobil, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is now reviewing old invoices to ensure that there is no overstatement in those documents as well.

This was revealed by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, who told reporters at a press conference on Thursday that the Guyana Government is paying serious attention to this matter.

GRA had flagged false declarations made by a Trinidadian logistics com-

he is referring to covers the period 2018 to 2020. That process is currently ongoing. Last month, Jagdeo had noted that the United States oil company was written to respond to the findings of the audit. Guyanese firms Ramdihal and Haynes Chartered Accounting, and Professional Services Firm Vitality Accounting and Consultancy Inc., and Eclisar Financial & Professional Services had partnered with Oklahomabased Martindale Consultants Inc. and the Swiss technical company SGS to conduct that audit.

Already, in the first

pany that acted as the broker on oil well equipment imported for ExxonMobil. It was reported last week that the company, in submitting the declaration, had listed US$4.4 million worth of oil well equipment as a whopping US$12.1 billion.

This revelation has prompted Government to take certain steps to ensure this was a one-off incident.

“We’re now ensuring that before we finalise any of the [cost oil] audits – the second audit, the GRA will go back and check all the back-invoices for the past several years, to see that there’s been no overstatement on any of these invoices. This is a serious matter, and we’re taking it seriously,” the Vice President noted.

The second oil audit that

cost oil audit, British firm IHS Markit had flagged US$214.4 million as questionable costs of ExxonMobil’s expenses incurred between 1999 and 2017 from its operations in Guyana. Government has since decided to move to arbitration to settle this disputed amount being claimed by the US oil major.

Meanwhile, the third cost oil auditor for the 2021 to 2023 period was tendered earlier this year, and that contract is now being finalised by the Guyana Government. Nevertheless, while reports had alluded to the controversy as a false declaration, Exxon has maintained that it was a typographical error that caused the worth of the equipment to be overstated

in November 2023.

In response to a March 18, 2024 letter from GRA, asking it to show cause why proceedings should not be instituted against it, Exxon had committed to working along with GRA to address any further concerns on the matter. But during his weekly press conference on Thursday, VP Jagdeo confirmed that the GRA has since filed legal proceedings over the US$12.1 billion overstatement for the oil well equipment. He said the US oil major will have to explain this false declaration in the court.

“The effort by GRA to clarify this issue did not meet with helpful responses from Exxon…It is unbelievable that anyone could even think about submitting an invoice for US$12 billion –that’s like two FPSOs (floating, production, storage and offloading vessels) here. I don’t know how come they came up with that. They said it’s exchange rates. I don’t know what exchange rate they could’ve used etc. So, we’ll get the explanations in court, and we’re looking forward to get the explanations in court,” he stated.

Only earlier this week, President of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), Alistair Routledge, told reporters at a press confer-

ence that it has cleared up the discrepancies with GRA, cut ties with the broker that overstated the cost, and improved its internal systems.

“It was corrected for the customs, and they’ve received that. The GRA has the correct number. Everything was caught early, and there were no issues. Nobody suffered any loss. Everything was taken care of. And as I said, we’ve updated our procedures and the checks that are made to make sure this sort of error is not repeated.

“We are always committed to working ethically and correctly, and making sure all our submissions, be they for tax purposes or cost recovery, are accurate. We actually do what we call a business practices review every two years with all our employees… If there is something that there shouldn’t have been, then we will learn from that. We’ve already revis-

ited the procedures around those submissions. As you may also be aware, the company that is supporting us for those customs duties has (been) changed, so we don’t anticipate that kind of issue happening again. But we’ll learn and make sure we put in place everything we can to not have errors,” Routledge said on Tuesday.

But while the EMGL President maintained that the overstated cost would not have affected the cost oil expenses, the Vice President argued that this does not matter. “We made it clear that if invoices are deliberately increased,

For Change Coalition Administration, Raphael) Trotman signed, the responsibility of paying taxes rests with the Government of Guyana on behalf of ExxonMobil. And so, we are treating this matter seriously,” Jagdeo contended.

In light of these discrepancies, the Vice President went on to emphasize the importance of using a benchmarking system when auditing accounts.

“That’s why your auditors have to ensure there is…a benchmarking software. So, I asked the GRA and they said they’re using benchmarking software.

it would impact on two things. It would overstate the cost bank; and two, it will change the tax liabilities of the Government because, as you know, in accordance with the PSA (Production Sharing Agreement) that (former Natural Resources Minister under the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance

The audits have to look at comparable costs. So, if people buy a screw for US$10 and then they check the benchmarking software and the benchmarking software says a screw of that nature can only cost US$3, then they can query that in the audit. That’s the purpose of the audit,” Jagdeo posited. (G-8)

ExxonMobil Guyana Office

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

Guyana Revenue Authority Office

2 plead guilty to narco-trafficking

Oneal Deleon was on Friday sentenced to four years’ imprisonment by Leonora Magistrate Alisha George after reportedly pleading guilty to trafficking 5.308kgs of cannabis. He has also been fined $4.7 million.

Based on reports received, when ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), acting on information, travelled to Mora, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) on April 30, 2024, they observed a black plastic bag on the bonnet of a motorcar. The car was intercepted, and the occupants -Deleon and another -- were informed that the ranks needed to carry out a search on the vehicle. The black bag was searched, and 5.306 kilograms of cannabis were unearthed. Charges were instituted against Deleon after the ranks had completed their investigations.

Meanwhile, Bryan Edwards appeared in the Georgetown court of Chief Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus and pleaded guilty to trafficking 53.480kgs of cannabis. He has been remanded to prison until

May 17, 2024. The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) has said that, on May 1, 2024, its officers in Essequibo intercepted motor car PSS 3518 at New Road, Essequibo Coast, and that led to the discovery of 52.8kg of cannabis. At time of the interception, Edwards, of Extension, Charity Housing Scheme, was the driver of that vehicle. As such, he was arrested and subsequently charged.

Self…

…destructive PNC

One of the loudest complaints by activists in our African Guyanese community is the relatively low number of businesses they own. Of course, the historical reasons for the condition that became systemic are trotted out to explain…but a fat lot of good it does to the community as they watch others speed past them on the economic front. OK…the huckstering of ground provisions from the “provisions ground’ that came out of the Sunday slave market was just about to take root after emancipation when the Portuguese immigrants pipped them because of the preferential credits they received from the British crown agents. Not to mention the stuff they could bring from Madeira - like cheap wine!!

So, you’d think when an African Guyanese starts a successful business, everyone – but especially fellow African Guyanese - would go out of their way and even stand on their heads to give them a boost up the ladder!! Well, when it comes to the PNC – the organization that’s been representing African Guyanese politically ever since Burnham split the PPP back in 1958 – you’d be wasting a thought!! Here we have it that, out in Region 11 – Brooklyn, NY – free from the constant weeping and wailing that African Guyanese just can’t get out from all the pressure that’s been put on them – by THE MAN! – they’ve been starting and running successful businesses, catering to their fellow Guyanese and West Indians – then up comes some PNC leaders, calling for them to be BOYCOTTED!!

Yeah…that’s right – as in fellow Guyanese and others mustn’t only not patronize them, but also prevent others from doing so!! The goal is to put these businesses out of business!! Now, why would the PNC want to destroy African Guyanese businesses??

Dear Reader, you better sit down before you hear this – the crime the Guyanese businesses committed was to shake hands and hang out with President Ali on the latter’s walkabout around the Guyanese neighbourhoods in Brooklyn!! Imagine that!!

Goes back to Norton’s refusal to shake Pressie’s hands, doesn’t it?? That’s his modus operandi when it comes to demonstrating disapproval – sheer truculence and hostility!! So, we shouldn’t be surprised he’s backed the boycott calls that emanated from a couple of Guyanese who hang out in Brooklyn and earn their living off social media - and as such have developed a whole lotta spunks!! What’s easier than mouthing off from their basements about things going on in Guyana about which they haven’t the foggiest notion!! They – including Norton - could take some lessons from that young PNC MP from Linden, who pellucidly laid out the consequences of the foolish boycott of their “own”.

But it’s a sad indictment of the short-sightedness of these so-called leaders when they can’t distinguish tactics from strategy.

…immolation

The Caricom Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) has advised regional governments of a possible Pakistan-based Islamic state threat to the upcoming men’s T20 World Cup in June, that’s gonna be played in Guyana, other parts of the Caribbean, and the United States. This, of course, was blared from every newspaper, newscast and social media platform across the region. Now, your Eyewitness wants to know why would IMPACS want to make this announcement at this time??

They obviously know such a warning’s gonna deter lots of folks who were planning on enjoying their cricket!! This can be the only reason for the announcement. And when the usual crowds don’t show up – the terror group will announce their success – without having to get out from behind their keyboards!!

If IMPACS confirmed the threat, shouldn’t they be working to neutralise it, rather than making this big splash in the news??

Your Eyewitness expects that Pakistan would immediately hunt down those miscreants and subject them to Islamic Justice. Quick beheadings!!

…exposure

Burna Boy has come and gone. But in your Eyewitness’s view, while organization of the show was impeccable, the local accompanying acts just weren’t up to scratch. But then, with all the drinking by the audience, did they even notice??

Sentenced: Oneal Deleon

Remanded: Bryan Edwards

High Court Judge dismisses 2nd attempt to stall Gas-to-Energy project

The second attempt by Rights Activist

Danuta Radzik to stall the Gas-to-Energy project at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD) has been dismissed by Justice Simone Morris-Ramlal on Friday at the Demerara High Court.

Further, the judge has ordered Radzik to pay $200,000 in costs to the Environmental Assessment Board (EAB).

ExxonMobil applied with the EPA, on June 24, 2021, seeking leave to be granted the facility of an environmental permit. The permit was granted on November 25, 2022, and, in unornamented terms, the oil company was allowed to develop a Gas-to-Energy Project pipeline from Nouvelle Flanders, West Coast Demerara (WCD) to Wales Estate, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

On May 22, 2023, Radzik’s sister Vanda Radzik had challenged the EAB’s decision to uphold the EPA’s waiver of the requirement for an Environmental Impact Assessment for the Gas to Shore Project. That challenge was dismissed on September 6, 2023. In that case, Radzik had sought to have the decision by the EPA: to grant the environmental permit to ExxonMobil, judicially reviewed on the basis that the company’s application failed to conform with the requirements set out in Regulation 17(2)(c) (ii) of the Environmental Protection (Authorisations) Regulations (EPAR). Justice SewnarineBeharry, who presided over

that hearing, refused all reliefs and orders claimed by Radzik, concluding that no public good can come from granting them. In her decision, however, she highlighted those orders relating to the proposed gas pipeline route, clearly establishing that as of January 23, 2023, the lands described therein were privately owned, hence the need to compulsorily acquire them.

Despite this determination, Justice SewnarineBeharry stated that there is no proof that Radzik was personally wronged by the EPA’s choice to grant the permit.

This time, Danuta Radzik filed a second action, on November 23, 2023, challenging the same decision by the EAB. That action has been dismissed by Justice Morris-Ramlal on Friday, and she ruled that there was an “inordinate” delay, and that the rights of third parties would be affected.

During the 2023 trial, ExxonMobil had argued that the applicant’s interpretation of Regulation 17(2)(c)

(ii) of the Environmental Protection (Authorisations) Regulations ignored its clear language.

Regulation 17(2)(c)(ii) of the EPAR provides that an application for an environmental authorisation must contain: “proof that the applicant either owns the facility, or has a lease or other agreement with the landowner or occupier to enable the applicant to conduct the activity on the facility, or has the legal right or ability to conduct the activity without the consent of the landowner or occupier.”

Nevertheless, the oil giant averred that as part of its application process for the environmental permit, it was enjoined to provide proof to the EPA that it has the legal right or ability to conduct the activity without the consent of the landowner or occupier, which it did.

The company submitted that, on June 24, 2021, it submitted an updated application to EPA which, inter alia, indicated that the Government would be acquiring the lands necessary for the project.

Linden man busted with ganja at Providence gets 4 years, fined $11M

Leonard Caleb of Amelia’s Ward in Linden, who pleaded guilty to trafficking 12.54 kilograms of ganja at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) back in November 2023, was on Friday slapped with a fouryear prison sentence and an $11 million fine.

Having initially pleaded not guilty to the charge back in March, Caleb

changed his plea to guilty when he appeared before Diamond Magistrate Sunil Scarce, and was as such remanded to prison and returned on Friday for sentencing.

Magistrate Scarce on Friday imposed a four-year prison sentence and a fined of $11,260,000 on Caleb.

It was reported that ranks of the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) were conducting an operation at Providence, EBD,

in the vicinity of a popular mall, when they intercepted motor car PAE 6311 with the suspect as the lone occupant. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a salt bag containing several parcels of cannabis. Caleb and the cannabis were taken to CANU Headquarters, where the illegal drug was weighed and amounted to 12.54 kilograms (27.65 pounds), which has a street value of $4 million.

The scope of Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy project consists of the construction of 225 kilometres of pipeline from the Liza field in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where ExxonMobil and its partners are currently producing oil. It features approximately 200 kilometres of a subsea pipeline offshore that would run from Liza Destiny and Liza Unity FPSO vessels in the Stabroek Block to the shore. Upon landing on the West Coast Demerara shore, the pipeline would continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) plant at Wales.

The pipeline would be 12 inches wide, and is expected to transport per day some 50 million standard cubic feet (mscfpd) of dry gas to the NGL plant, but it can push as much as 120 mscfpd.

The pipeline’s route onshore would follow the same path as the fibre-optic ca-

bles, and would terminate at Hermitage, part of the Wales Development Zone (WDZ), which would house the gas-to-shore project (integrated NGL plant and the 300-megawatt (MW) Combined Cycle Power Plant).

The NGL and 300MW power plant components of the gas-to-shore project are meanwhile expected to

cost US$759.8 million, and would be financed through sources that include budgets and loan financing. Investment in this project is in the vicinity of US$1,700,000,000 and includes all associated project costs incurred under respective contracts by the Government, its contractors, operators, and coventurers.

Right activist Danuta Radzik

The ganja found in Caleb’s car Sentenced: Leonard Caleb

80 allottees identify house lots at Great Diamond

Eighty persons who had previously been allocated moderate-income and middle-income lots at Great Diamond-Block One (Section One) have participated in a lot identification exercise on Friday.

This is the second batch of individuals to identify their lands in this scheme, following the installation of first-phase infrastructure such as roads, culverts, drainage networks and other amenities.

The scheme’s strategic location near the Great Diamond to Mandela

Highway offers easy access and navigation between the East Bank Demerara and Georgetown and surrounding schemes, making it an ideal residential area for fu-

ture homeowners.

Lot identification exercises are ongoing in several areas across the country. Last year, the Housing and Water Ministry reported that some 5000 house lots for various brackets would be made available at six blocks in the Great Diamond and Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara (ECD) areas. Infrastructural works in the various areas are pegged at close to $17 billion. These include land clearing, construction of access roads and installation of pipe networks.

The PPP/C Government has committed to delivering 50,000 house lots to Guyanese within its first term in office. It entered office when there was a backlog of over 76,000 applications. Having distributed almost 30,000 lots, there are approximately 57,000 pending house-lot applications.

From the 30,000 plus house lots allocated in just about three years, 54 per cent were granted to young persons. Some 50 per cent of allocations also encompassed single women.

Last August, the Ministry outlined that infrastructural works are ongoing in several schemes along the East Bank Demerara to accommodate more than 5000 low-, moderate- and middle-income residential house lots, and industrial/ commercial lots, spanning some 1700 acres of land.

In addition to providing citizens with affordable housing alternatives, the Government intends to construct 2000 homes in Region

Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) by the end of 2024. Meanwhile, concerns about potential discrimination in the award of house lots were recently addressed, with Minister Susan Rodrigues maintaining, “There is no discrimination, whether based on ethnicity or religion or race or gender. We have effectively killed that criticism because we have provided the data on our site.”

Human Services Ministry launches "MPOWER" initiative to upskill 1000 men

Approximately 1,000 men are set to benefit from a series of training opportunities through the Human Services and Social Security Ministry’s ‘MPOWER’ training programme.

Launched last Sunday amidst a sexual assault awareness campaign, this initiative marks a significant stride toward fostering gender equality, and providing avenues for male empowerment through skills’ enhancement and financial independence.

In a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), Dr Vindhya Persaud reiterated Government’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment by stating, “The intention is to offer the same opportunities that we have been giving to women through WIIN, and we hope that the men will gravitate to it.”

The name ‘MPOWER’ was carefully chosen to symbolise the Government’s

commitment to ensuring empowerment opportunities are accessible to all segments of society. It complements the Women Innovation Investment Network (WIIN) training programme, which specifically targets women.

Those participating in the ‘MPOWER’ initiative would gain access to a diverse array of training courses meticulously designed to enhance their skills and competencies. Those courses include top-

ics such as Data Literacy, Digital Presence-Big Data, Digital Transformation, Workplace Productivity, and Real Estate Management. Offered online, these courses provide flexibility and convenience, with self-paced options catering to diverse learning preferences. Upon completion of the training programme, participants would receive comprehensive support to pursue entrepreneurial ventures or employment opportunities.

Human Services and Social Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud

Ecstatic land owners going to identify their house lots

A family identifying their plot of land at Great Diamond

Sections of land being developed to cater to the 5000 house lots to be distributed

PPP Congress to consider removal of Marxism-Leninism from Party's constitution

– as 32nd Congress opens today with over 3000 delegates

The People’s Progressive Party’s 32ndCongress gets underway today and during the two-day forum, the ruling party is expected to consider several proposals made by members, including the removal of MarxismLeninism from the PPP Constitution.

During a press conference on Thursday, PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo had disclosed that several membership groups, in keeping with their rights, have proposed amendments to the Party’s constitution which will be debated during the congress session.

In documents, seen by <<<Guyana Times>>>, that were shared with registered party members on Friday there were ‘Resolutions to amend the Preamble and Articles 5, 13 and 14 of the Constitution of the People’s Progressive Party’.

In Article 5 Paragraph 7 and Article 13 Fourth Bullet Paragraph (B), it was recommended that the words "Marxism-Leninism” be replaced with “our Party's founding principles, political philosophy, core values, history, struggles, and achievements".

It was also proposed that Article 13 Fourth Bullet Paragraph (D) be deleted.

Based on the documents, a recommendation was also made for the words "Marxism-Leninism" to be removed in Article

14 (Progressive Youth Organisation) Third Bullet Paragraph (B) and be replaced with "our Party's founding principles, political philosophy, core values, history, struggles, and achievements".

Another proposal was proffered for Article 14 (Progressive Youth Organisation) Third Bullet Paragraph (D) to replace the word "socialist" with "just and equitable".

For Article 14 (Women's Progressive Organisation) Third Bullet Second SubBullet, the words "MarxismLeninism" are also being recommended to be replaced with "our Party's founding principles, political philosophy, core val-

ues, history, struggles, and achievements".

Marxism-Leninism is a political philosophy founded on ideas of Marxism and Leninism, often used specifically to refer to the state ideologies of communist nations.

Last November, GS Jagdeo had told reporters at a press conference that any decision to remove this founding ideology of Marxism-Leninism from the PPP constitution would have to be determined by the Party’s members.

“That is a question for Congress. The General Secretary of a party doesn’t/ cannot alter the constitution of a party on his own. It is a question for Congress… I

have my positions and I am not going to, in the public domain, explore this. I will explore it at the appropriate levels of the Party. We have consistently been a working-class party. We are not wedded to ‘isms’. We want to make sure all of our people make progress, in this country. We want to work for poor people and get into the middle class of society. So, any ‘ism’ whatsoever is inconsistent with that, it cannot continue to be the prevailing philosophy of our Party,” he had noted.

Set for May 3-5 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, PPP’s 32nd Congress is being held under the theme: “Strengthen the Party, Defend Guyana,

Unite All Our People for Progress and Prosperity”.

The Congress is the highest decision-making forum of the Party, and this year’s biennial congress is set to be the largest in the Party’s history with over 3000 persons registered.

During this weekend’s event, more than 90 persons will be vying to be a part of the PPP’s Central Executive Committee. Delegates will have to elect 35 persons from 93 contestants to form the Central Executive of the Party, followed by the election of another five candidates who will attend the meetings of the committee but will not have voting rights.

Top positions in the Party

such as General Secretary will not be contested openly at the Congress, but rather, will be done at the level of the newly-elected Central Committee.

The two-day Congress will also include seven workshops focusing on key issues relating to strengthening the Party, politics and Parliament, social and economic policies, local Government, social media, international relations, and youth and gender.

“There will be seven workshops with delegates and observers will freely express their views and have those views documented, so the views can then infuse the future programmes of the Party with those ideas that come out of the Congress,” GS Jagdeo explained on Thursday.

Further, resolutions are expected from various groups on the situation in Palestine and the GuyanaVenezuela border controversy. Additionally, the Central Committee’s report will also be presented, outlining the history of the party, its core values, struggles, and developments from the last Congress to date.

The last Congress was held in 2016 when the PPP was in Opposition. This year’s Congress is being hosted ahead of the 2025 General and Regional Elections, where the ruling PPP will be seeking a return to office.

(G8)

Party members at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Friday where registration was being done ahead of today’s opening of the PPP’s 32nd Congress

Govt working to expand national protected areas to 20%

Guyana is looking to increase its national protected areas from 8.4 per cent to at least 20 per cent of the country’s land mass, according to Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat.

“We can commit to that, and we are going to fulfil that commitment to ensure that we have at least 20 per cent of our landmass under protection,” he told the gathering at a Climate Town Hall Forum hosted by the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) on

Thursday. Protected areas are clearly-defined geographical spaces – recognised, dedicated and managed through legal or other effective means, to achieve the long-term conservation of nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values.

Guyana’s first protected area was the Kaieteur National Park (KNP) created in 1929. In 1996, the Iwokrama Rainforest Reserve was formally established and in 2011,

the country passed the Protected Areas Act.

Shortly thereafter, two new protected areas, the Kanuku Mountains Protected Area (KMPA) and Shell Beach Protected Area (SBPA) were declared followed by the Kanashen Amerindian Protected Area (KAPA) and four urban parks – the Botanical Gardens, Zoological Park, National Park and Joe Vieira Park.

Guyana boasts 86-87 per cent forest coverage and has managed to retain low deforestation rates.

However, the Natural Resources Minister said: “Guyana is one of the best examples of countries to keep our emissions down, protect our forest, keep our biodiversity, we ensure that we expand our protected areas. That is quite remarkable for Guyana.”

The Government has pioneered the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) as a means of obtaining payments for protecting its forest cover.

With the effects of climate change affecting many industries, Bharrat pointed out that Guyana is at an ad-

vantage as many countries are facing issues with raising money to deal with adaptation to climate change.

“We’re below sea level and with the rising sea level, we are at risk so with our partners and our revenue coming in with the sale of carbon credits, we’re in a better position than many other countries to deal with mitigation and mostly adaptation,” he explained.

The Minister also alluded to other measures being taken to protect the environment, including the eradication of mercury in mining operations.

Amid claims of contra-

Ramsay Ali returns as Head of GMSA

Sterling Products Ltd Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ramsay Ali was re-elected unopposed as the President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) for 2024-2025.

Ali will be supported by Roseann Bulkan of Bulkan Timber Works as First Vice President; Vasudeo Singh of Demerara Distillers Ltd as Second Vice President and Treasurer, and Rafeek Khan of Durable Wood Products Inc as Third Vice President.

Ali’s professional career began in 1988 with a background in sales and marketing. Over the years, he has worked with entities such as Colgate Palmolive, Banks DIH Ltd, and then to

Sterling Products Limited.

Ali has given of his time in helping not-for-profit organisations such as the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association, where he serves as Chairman; Georgetown Cricket Club and the Scouts Association of Guyana, where he is the Vice President.

For years, he has made invaluable contributions to the GMSA, where he aggressively pushed for success and development in the manufacturing sector. He is the mastermind of the GMSA’s UncappeD Marketplace and continues to support small and micro enterprises in their development, marketing and other pertinent areas.

The other Board mem-

bers include Earlecia Hieronymo of Khayr Organics – Chairperson of the Agro-Processing SubSector; Dr Marie Correia of Corriea & Corriea Ltd – Chairperson of the Construction & Engineering

Sub-Sector; Timothy Tucker of Rid-O-Pes Inc – Chairman of the Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Sub-Sector; Zahid Khan of Keen360 Inc – Chairman of the Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) SubSector; Malisa Nokta of Environmental Management Consultants – Chairperson of Services Sub-Sector; Upasna Mudlier of DENMOR Garment Manufacturers Inc – Chairman of Textiles & Sewn Goods Sub-Sector and David Carto of Banks DIH Ltd – Chairman of the Trade, Investment & Legal Committee.

The other Board members are Raymond Ramsaroop of Edward B Beharry & Company Ltd; Chris Persaud of UMAMI Inc; Mohindra Chand of Barama Company Ltd; Dr Vishnu Doerga of ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc; Vishal Lalbachan of National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO); Chet Bowling of Kanoo (Guyana) Inc and Peter Pompey of Brass Aluminium & Cast Iron Foundry (BACIF).

The diverse expertise and perspectives of the newly-elected directors promise a vibrant and inclusive governance framework for the upcoming year.

Meanwhile, the new Board of Directors is poised to build upon past achievements and set a strategic direction for continued excellence in serving the interests of Guyana’s manufacturing and services sectors.

dictions over the extraction of crude from the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, while striving for environmental protection in oth-

er areas, the Minister said earnings from the petroleum sector will help to fund the transition to renewable energy sources.

“We are going to continue exploring our natural resources, because the only

way we could achieve our commitment of transitioning to renewable energy is to ensure that we harness our revenue from natural resources… nobody is going to come and give us money to transition.”

Thursday’s event was hosted as part of World Press Freedom Day under the theme “Press for the Planet.”

Guyana appoints new...

Guatemala is also on record to establish a diplomatic office in Guyana later this year – its first within the Caribbean Community (Caricom); while Colombia is also preparing to re-establish its Embassy in Georgetown.

In addition, France is also seeking to strengthen its presence in Guyana, and is slated to open a diplomatic office here next year – the first European Union member to do so.

During a live broadcast last July on efforts being undertaken to foster bilateral relations and position Guyana as a global leader, President Ali, who is currently serving as Chairman of the Caribbean Community (Caricom), indicated that the Government has to ensure that all of its Foreign Missions are adequately staffed, so they can better position the country on the global stage.

“Our foreign policy and our foreign engagement have never ever been so active,” the Head of State had noted, while adding, “There is absolutely no hesitation from this President and this Government in ensuring that the brand ‘Guyana’ gets the best possible value on the global stage. This comes not

only by travelling, but by investing time, by reading, by analysing, by having a technical team of people working round-the-clock to support what you want to achieve…” Already, Guyana’s strong global engagement is reflected in the fact that the country is being called upon more frequently to represent on the world stage. In January, Guyana commenced its tenure as one of five countries elected as non-permanent members for the term 2024-2025 at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) – an organ of the United Nations that has primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. In February, Guyana served as President of the Security Council, and Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, presided over several important meetings, including hearings on the Gaza war.

Also in June 2023, Christopher Arif Bulkan was elected as a Commissioner on the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR). He is the first Guyanese national to serve on the 64-year-old commission. FROM PAGE 3

Re-elected GMSA President Ramsay Ali

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat

Kaieteur Falls

Iwokrama International Centre

Int’l Press Freedom Day 2024

Jamaican Information Minister lobbies for better pay for Guyanese Journalists

– says will ensure higher quality of reporting

As the world observed Press Freedom Day 2024, Jamaican Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Robert Nesta Morgan has advocated for an increase in salaries for Journalists across Guyana.

According to Minister Morgan, implementing this could result in a community of well-paid Journalists dedicated to ensuring accuracy in their reportage.

“If you are very ill and you need a doctor, how much money would you pay that doctor? So why is it that we are trying to find the cheapest Journalist to hire in our Government services to disseminate some of the most important information…we need to pay our Journalists more,” he highlighted.

Furthermore, he ex-

pressed that the consistent lack of acknowledgement experienced by Journalists was not only prevalent in Guyana but worldwide. He stated that people only recognise the importance of communicators during times of catastrophe.

“The only time people see communicators as important is when there is a crisis, but the best communicator is the one who prevents a crisis from taking place, we must stop the problem before it becomes the problem,” he de-

75 healthcare professionals

better equipped to manage HIV/AIDS patients

Some 75 healthcare professionals are now better equipped to deal with persons living with HIV/AIDS following their graduation from an intense Clinical Management of HIV programme.

These persons received their certificates on Friday during a ceremony at the Health Ministry’s Conference Room, Brickdam, Georgetown.

The initiative is a collaboration between the Pan Caribbean Partnership (PANCAP) and the Ministry which was established by a Declaration of Caricom Heads of Government on February 14, 2001.

It forms part of a comprehensive approach to combat the HIV epidemic in the Caribbean and to eliminate AIDS by 2030.

Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy, Adrienne Galanek highlighted the progress that the PANCAP has made in combating the HIV epidemic in the Caribbean.

The US envoy noted that there has been a 50 per cent reduction in HIV cases across the Region while underscoring the United States’ commitment to developing the medical landscape in Guyana.

According to Galanek, the US Government, over the past 20 years, pumped a

Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy, Adrienne Galanek

total of US$189 million into aiding HIV prevention and treatment in Guyana.

During his presentation, subject Minister, Dr Frank Anthony stated that there has been a substantial change in the way that HIV cases are managed.

“I remember those days when you diagnose someone with HIV, sometimes not even AIDS, which is the end stage; there was basically no hope… [now] this is basically a chronic disease and once you take your meds, you are going to be okay and that (in) itself means we have come a far way.”

Similarly, the Minister noted that up to a year ago, the Ministry was unable to do viral loads: “We have invested close to half a million US dollars to ensure we have the right type of

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

viral load machines so that any one of our patients that we need to track their viral loads, we can now do it for free and that is remarkable… all those patients now have the medication that they need and now all that we have to do is scale this up and ensure that it’s available across the country.”

Dr Anthony also noted that over the past two years, $300 million was designated to each region but in 2024, that has gone up to $500 million to further enhance the healthcare environment within every region.

Over the past years, a total of 2000 individuals have been trained through PANCAP, with 499 students –the majority Guyanese –graduating from the Clinical Management of HIV programme.

clared.

Meanwhile, the Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), Kwame McCoy agreed with the sentiments of the Jamaican Minister and expressed that Journalists could be assured of better days that would soon come.

“As we continue to do our work and remain committed to our task, which is making sure that we continue to pursue the development of our country through our professions, better days will come

and better days indeed are ahead,” McCoy added.

Lending his perspective to the oil and gas sector in Guyana, he stated that the Government has recognised that this was the beginning of great things ahead for communications workers.

Additionally, he assured his Jamaican counterpart that the revenue made from the oil and gas sector in Guyana would not only benefit the citizens of Guyana but countries such as Jamaica and others in the Region.

“The wealth that will flow from the production of oil and gas is not for Guyana alone, but it will also be for the Region. We truly believe that the Region has a share in

what we do and that is why you see us continuing efforts that will benefit all of the peoples in the region, we have to be our brother’s keeper,” he said.

Since coming to office in 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has made concerted efforts to improve the lives of Public Servants and Guyanese as a whole.

Among these measures was the payment of more than 23 per cent across-the-board increase to Public Servants since taking office; the restoration of the one-month taxfree year-end bonus to the Disciplined Services totalling more than $1 billion per annum and other measures.

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister in Jamaica, Robert Nesta Morgan

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister in Guyana, Kwame McCoy

GHDS to host “Sanskriti” in commemoration of 186th anniversary of Indian arrival in Guyana

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) will host Sanskriti – a celebration of “Our Heritage, Our Culture, Our Traditions to commemorate the 186th anniversary of the arrival of Indians in Guyana.

On Sunday, May 5, the event will be held at the Dharmic Rama Krishna School Tarmac, Pattensen (next to Giftland parking lot) from 16:00h while on Monday, May 6, Palmyra Indian Monument Site in Berbice will come alive from 15:00h.

Those attending will be treated to unique displays and performances. The festival stage will feature a

variety of traditional items including Taan singing, wedding-style singing, dramatic depictions, Ramayan segments, Tassa, dances and songs by an extensive list of Guyanese artistes.

There will be different programmes on each day.

A specially-constructed exhibition area encourages you to take a walk back in time into the lives of our ancestors and appreciate a bit of estate life as well as the different facets of culture and lifestyle that they brought with them.

The depiction of the boat

and logie filled with artefacts will be an educational experience for the young as will be the explanations.

The Food Festival will

entice you to sample a vast array of mouthwatering delicacies whether it be the ever-popular seven curry or sada roti with baigan chokha, hot potato balls, pholourie, pakoras and samosas, or decadent kheer, jalebis, peras and gulab jamuns.

Patrons can also indulge in a bit of shopping for Indian fashions and jewellery, unique household décor and more. There will also be mehendi stalls and games for the children. The Indian High Commission will participate on May 5 as part of the exhibition.

Admission to the events is free. No alcohol will be allowed.

TVs, groceries up for grabs as GTT launches fibre promotion “Faster Fibre”

GTT on Friday unveiled “Faster Fibre” – a promotion designed to reward valued customers. With GTT Fibre, customers not only experience high-speed Internet but are now also treated to exclusive rewards, including fuel, grocery, and food vouchers, alongside a chance to win one of 10 65-inch TVs in weekly draws ending June 30, 2024.

Customers just need to sign up for fibre Internet once they are in fibre-ready areas or upgrade their ex-

isting plans to higher tiers to instantly enjoy the benefits of this exciting promotion. Debra DeSousa and Elizabeth Chase have already won themselves 65inch TV sets.

"I am overjoyed to have won this amazing prize from GTT. Now, in addition to the amazing connectivity with GTT Fibre, I can now enjoy my new smart TV," DeSousa stated.

Chase said, "Winning this TV came at the right time now, as I recently finished construction of my new home, I already have a place for it!"

GTT encourages the public to take advantage of this limited-time promotion by signing up for GTT Fibre and upgrading today.

Marketing Coordinator Jordan hands over a 65-inch TV to Elizabeth Chase

Debra DeSousa with Marketing Coordinator Adjua Jordan

MoH targeting areas with low vaccination coverage

n its commitment to en-

Isuring widespread vaccination coverage, the Ministry of Health is targeting locations with low vaccination rates to establish herd immunity across the country.

Primarily the focus is on hinterland regions where the vaccination levels remain low.

During the latest episode of the Ministry’s Health Matters Programme, Immunisation Manager for Maternal and Child Health, Dr Oneka Scott, acknowledged the challenges in achieving herd immunity nationwide.

She emphasised the importance of vaccinating migrants, as unequal vaccination rates hinder the attainment of herd immunity, impacting the broader population.

“Guyana has quite a vast amount of territory…. And so, during this period we seek those areas with very low cov-

Immunisation Manager for Maternal and Child Health,

erage. Those areas that are remote and difficult to go to and maybe those that we have not gone to during the past few months,” Dr Scott stated.

This initiative forms part of the Ministry’s re-evaluation of vaccination coverage to address individuals who have dropped out of the system or have never been enrolled.

“We are recognising now

that our population is growing and people are living farther and farther away from the central sites, whether it is in the hinterland regions or those districts that are … far away”.

To ensure equitable access to vaccination, the Ministry conducts population mapping during rural outreach activities.

The goal is to achieve at least 95 per cent vaccination coverage in each community.

Dr Scott outlined various methods to enhance vaccination uptake, including appointment bookings during outreach visits, home visits by healthcare teams, and targeted outreaches in strategic locations such as markets.

The Health Ministry remains dedicated to promoting vaccination as a critical public health measure, striving to protect communities and achieve herd immunity against preventable diseases.

Govt allocates $543.6M to rehabilitate bridges in Reg 4

The Public Works Ministry has allocated $543.6 million for the rehabilitation of vital bridges across Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), in order to enhance mobility for thousands of residents.

Recently, tenders were opened through the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board for these works.

The Haslington Grove Bridge Link on the East Coast Demerara (ECD) will undergo rehabilitation at an estimated cost of $26.8 million, in order to ensure structural integrity and safety.

The New Diamond 1st Avenue Connector Road Bridge is set to be revamped at a cost of $157.3M, while works would also be exe-

Essequibo man remanded for inflicting bodily harm

Thirty-seven-yearold Ramchandra Roopchand, a driver of Aurora Estate, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), was on Friday remanded to prison until May 23, 2024, after appearing before Suddie Magistrate Tamieka Clarke and pleading not guilty to a charge of assault causing actual bodily harm.

Remanded: Ramchandra Roopchand

cuted on the HDPE Culvert in Lamaha Gardens to the tune of $10.4 million.

Bridge rehabilitation projects would be undertaken at Lamaha Springs and Lamaha Gardens to the tune of $31.7 million. And the Ice House Road Bridge in West Ruimveldt is set for rehabilitation at a cost of $28.8 million.

Rehabilitation is also planned for the Enmore School Street Access Bridge on the East Coast Demerara to the tune of $26.8 million. Similar rehabilitation works, valued at $26.8 million, are slated for the Beehive North Access Bridge.

Bids for these projects are scheduled to be opened on Wednesday, May 29, 2024.

This initiative aligns with the broader context of the Government’s agenda outlined in Budget 2024 with an allocation of $204.1 billion dedicated towards enhancing thoroughfares and bridges countrywide.

Dr Oneka Scott

Guyana, Jamaica ink MoU for collaboration in media, mass communication

The Governments of Guyana and Jamaica on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation on media, mass communication, and public affairs.

The signing ceremony was held at the Cara Lodge Hotel in Georgetown.

The MoU aims to strengthen partnerships for knowledge sharing and capacity building, recognising the pivotal role that mass communi-

cation plays in shaping society.

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy emphasised the importance of bridging gaps between the two countries’ information and communication sectors in alignment with Caricom’s integration movement.

“We are fully committed as a country and as a government to forging enhanced relations among sister States

of the Caribbean Community to achieve synergy across the various sectors,” the Minister said.

He stressed the need for innovation to be a cornerstone of media relations and information dissemination, particularly in adapting to evolving technologies to ensure effective communication.

“We have to continuously work at strategies and methods of how we package and share this information and this is where this MoU becomes important,” he explained.

The Minister further noted, “[We have] a common objective of wanting to support our society and establish systems for information flow, dissemination and feedback. We recognise that Jamaica has different ways of doing things, and we could assess that to see which probably has greater efficiency and may be applied here.”

He highlighted the role of media practitioners in conveying information objectively and accurately, and pledged that the Government would continue to drive initiatives that build capacity in

these areas.

The Office of the Prime Minister is taking a targeted approach to bolster the communications landscape with a rigorous training programme for new and current media practitioners. Minister McCoy noted that this MoU would open avenues for similar initiatives to complement this programme.

Meanwhile, Jamaica’s Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Information, Robert Nesta Morgan under-

scored the challenges posed by misinformation and disinformation within the media fraternity.

He emphasised the importance of collaboration to combat these issues, and highlighted the MoU as a crucial tool in this endeavour.

The Minister added that the agreement served to fortify the relationship between Guyana and Jamaica.

“We do expect that from time to time, different groups from Guyana and Jamaica will travel back and forth be-

tween each other’s countries to learn.

“I was at the broadcaster’s office and we were very impressed by the efficiency and the effectiveness of the processes that you engage,” the Jamaican Information Minister stated.

Minister Morgan is leading a delegation to Guyana for UNESCO World Press Freedom Day observances, engaging in various activities, including panel discussions and tours of media entities.

Man jailed for narcotics, gun & ammo possession

Wendell Hamilton, 41, of Roraima Housing Scheme, West Bank Demerara (WBD) was sentenced to prison for illegal possession of a firearm, ammunition, and narcotics.

Appearing before Magistrate Rhondel Weever

at the Wales Magistrate’s Court on Friday, Hamilton pleaded guilty to the charges.

He received a two-year prison term for firearm possession and a one-year term for ammunition possession, and was fined $30,000, with an alternative of six months’

imprisonment for narcotics possession. Additionally, he was fined $50,000 or an alternative of six months’ imprisonment for cultivating a prohibited plant.

The sentences are to be served concurrently.

It was reported that Hamilton was taken into

custody after being found with one AR-15 rifle, four live rounds of 7.62x39 am-

munition, and a quantity of cannabis sativa and cannabis plants at his premises.

Police stated that a team of Police Officers went to the home of the suspect on Thursday and requested to search his premises.

He agreed, and the ranks eventually found the rifle, ammunition, four blue pills and three transparent bags containing ganja in the liv-

ing room area. In addition, three cannabis plants and four Ziploc bags containing cannabis seeds were found.

“The uprooted cannabis plants, along with the fire-

arm, ammunition, and cannabis that amounted to 11.2 grams, were taken to the La Grange Police Station,” the Police stated.

Ministers Kwame McCoy and Robert Nesta Morgan after the signing of the MoU

The Ministers signing the agreement in the presence of other officials

Sentenced: Wendell Hamilton

The ganja found during the raid

The gun, ammunition and cannabis plants found on the premises

Guyana reaffirms commitment to press freedom at 31st World Press Freedom Day Conference in Chile

Emphasising its dedication to the fundamental democratic principles of press freedom and access to information, the Guyana Government is taking part in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s World Press Freedom Day Conference at the Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral, Santiago, Chile.

The three-day conference commenced on Friday, May 3, on World Press Freedom Day, which was observed under the theme, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis”.

Public Affairs Liaison in the Department of Information and Public Affairs, Office of the Prime Minister, Gordon French joined over 2500 media workers, policymakers, environmental activists, and Non-Governmental Organisations to discuss the current challenges and

opportunities in environmental reporting and the broader media landscape.

“The discussions at the

3rd victim in Williamsburg 2-motorcycle smash-up succumbs

The third person who was involved in the two-motorcycle smash-up at Williamsburg, Corentyne last month has died. Dead is 17-year-old Veeram Seecharran, also of Williamsburg Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

The teenager died nine days after the accident which already claimed the lives of Deolall Tulsi, a 21-year-old ranger attached to the Albion Sugar Estate, and 22-yearold Rondy Emmanuel, a labourer.

Seecharran, at the time of the accident, was the pillion rider on one of the bikes involved in the crash. He suffered a fractured skull and was a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital up to the time of his demise.

His sister-in-law, Roshine Mootoosammy told Guyana Times that since the fatal crash, the teen’s condition had been worsening.

“The doctor said his system and his heart started to close and he is not responding. His organs are starting to fail – his lungs, heart and everything failing. The doctor said the brain also started to fail. He said we have to prepare for anything, because it was already nine days in the hospital...”

Meanwhile, after a head scan, it was found that there was swelling in a section of the brain.

“Dem ah treat him for the swelling and when we ask how is he, they say that they waiting to see if he would catch himself.

The Wednesday before the Sunday that he passed away, his brother went and talk to him and he raise a bit and moved his two hands and feet. That was the last move before he passed away on Sunday,” the sister-in-law stated.

It was reported that on

Third

the day in question, Tulsi was riding motorcycle CM 2969 while Emmanuel was riding motorcycle CM 50. At the time, they were heading in different directions, and according to eyewitnesses, both bikers were in the process of overtaking a line of vehicles thus resulting in a head-on collision.

conference are crucial, occurring at a critical juncture amidst our Guyana’s global leadership and commitment to environmental protection and climate change mitigation. Therefore, it is essential that we remain vigilant and informed about the latest developments, focusing on emerging global issues to help strengthen the foundation of fundamental rights and freedoms already enshrined in Guyana,” French stated.

Based on initial discussions at the conference, there are increasing calls for Governments to collaborate with Journalists and other stakeholders to develop public policies to combat misinformation and fake news campaigns, not only regarding the environment but especially as the world prepares for a ‘super election year’ in

2024.

“In Guyana, we are increasingly recognising the global conversation surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its implications for the proliferation of fake news.

This presents challenges for our Journalists and Government as we endeavour to safeguard our environment and the rights of citizens. President Dr Irfaan Ali has taken decisive steps to lead local discussions on AI, representing a commitment to confront the challenges of AI and fake news head-on.”

There is a global push to ensure that the governance of digital platforms foster the transparency of technology companies, their accountability, due diligence, user empowerment, and content moderation and curation based on international human

rights standards, as indicated in UNESCO’s Guidelines for the governance of digital platforms.

The conference’s opening ceremony was led by the renowned Chilean actress Leonor Varela, with remarks from Chilean President Gabriel Boric and Audrey Azoulay, Director General of UNESCO; and Michelle Bachelet, former President of Chile and former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, providing a presentation.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also remotely addressed the conference . The event offers an excellent opportunity for all stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to promoting and ensuring freedom of expression worldwide.

Prisoner charged with murder of fellow inmate at Lusignan Prison

Aman originally held for robbery was on Friday charged with the murder of his fellow inmate at the Lusignan Prison.

Anthony Prince, 23, who was awaiting trial for murder, was fatally stabbed during a dispute with Shamar Davis, also known as “Stamma” from B Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

The altercation took place in their shared cell on March 30. A month later, Davis appeared before Magistrate Orinthia Schmidt at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court, where he was remanded until June.

It was reported that on the day in question, the men were in their block when an

argument erupted between them over suspicions of infidelity involving their girlfriends.

Davis claims to have noticed Prince holding what seemed to be a makeshift weapon, prompting him to punch him and cause a fatal wound to his neck. Prison authorities were alerted, and Prince was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

ECD resident critical after being struck by car

Aresident of the East Coast Demerara corridor is now battling for his life after he was run over by a vehicle along the Unity Old Road in Mahaica, ECD on Thursday evening.

The injured 31-year-old Emel Robinson of Mosquito Hall, Mahaica, ECD is suffering from a fractured skull.

Based on reports received, the accident involved motorcar PWW 2670, at the time being driven by a 40-year-old resident of Lancaster Village, Mahaica, ECD. The police have said that the car was proceeding along the roadway when the driver felt an impact and decided to bring the vehicle to a halt. As he exited, he observed

the 31-year-old victim lying on the roadway with injuries to his face.

The injured man was picked up and taken to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital, where it was determined that, due to the extent of his injuries, he would have to be transferred to the Georgetown

Public Hospital. He is currently admitted in that institution in a critical condition.

A breathalyzer test conducted on the driver determined that he was under the influence of alcohol. He was thus arrested, and remains in custody pending further investigations.

Dead : Anthony Prince Shamar Davis

Public Affairs Liaison in the Department of Information and Public Affairs, Office of the Prime Minister, Gordon French

Deolall Tulsi and Rondy Emmanuel died at the scene

victim: Veeram Seecharran

Regional

Haitians brace for more rain after downpours kill 13

Heavy rains were expected to continue across Haiti on Friday, the national weather service said, after killing at least 13 persons in the north and damaging thousands of homes.

"If you live by a river, ravine or mountainside, move," Haiti's civil protection body warned.

Nearly all of the country is at risk of "frequent and intensifying" to "significant" thunderstorms through Friday evening, the weather service added, warning of flash floods.

Outside of the northern town of Cap-Haitien, rains caused a landslide which caused several houses to collapse and killed 12, Haiti's disaster agency said in a statement released on Thursday afternoon.

More than 2000 houses were flooded with water runoffs overflowing and sewers clogged.

The north is Haiti's agricultural breadbasket, al-

though gangs have strengthened their hold over the region in recent years and damaged or stolen crops and demanded bribes from farmers.

The disaster agency found "significant losses" in livestock in early reports from the north, while the country's centre region also saw farms "devastated".

Through the weekend,

moderate-to-heavy rains were expected to continue, particularly in the north and south, the weather service said.

The destruction comes during a time of political turmoil for Haiti, with a newly-installed transition council suffering from infighting and gangs ramping up violence across the Caribbean nation in recent months. (Reuters)

Panama court rules leading candidate Mulino may remain in presidential race

Panama’s Supreme Court has ruled that frontrunner Jose Raul Mulino is eligible to run in the Central American country’s presidential election.

Venezuela: Gonzalez says Govt would have blocked candidacy

by now if that was its plan

Venezuelan Opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez said on Friday that President Nicolás Maduro's Government would have already banned him from public office if it had been planning on blocking his presidential candidacy.

Gonzalez, 74, a former diplomat to Algeria and Argentina, was named by the Unitary Platform Opposition coalition last month as its candidate for the July 28 presidential election, after landslide primary winner Maria Corina Machado had a ban on holding office upheld by the Supreme Court.

Members of the Opposition and analysts have warned the ruling party could take action to ban Gonzalez or block Opposition parties

from appearing on the ballot.

"They would have done it already," Gonzalez told Reuters when asked if he thought he could face a ban. "Once they accepted me, once they accepted another party endorsing my candidacy, I don't think there will be any issue," Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez will appear on the ballot for three Opposition parties, while Maduro is set to represent 13 parties.

"One could anticipate any kind of actions, attempts to boycott or impede the candidacy, but this is now really far advanced," he added, referring to the campaign for the July vote.

Gonzalez said he has already held meetings with delegates from the Carter Center and the European

Union, who are set to act as election observers. The former diplomat would not be drawn about sanctions on Maduro's Government by Washington, which last month reimposed broad measures on the oil industry, saying Maduro had failed to comply with an electoral deal with the Opposition.

If elected, Gonzalez said rebuilding a normal diplomatic relationship with the United States would be a priority.

"We have cut all the ties of cooperation which existed and those must be reestablished," Gonzalez said, adding Venezuela needs more attention from the international community. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Rains in southern Brazil kill at least 37, more than 70 still missing

Heavy rains battering Brazil's southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul have killed 37 persons, local authorities said on Friday, and the death toll is expected to rise as dozens still have not been accounted for.

More than 70 persons were still missing and at least 23,000 had been displaced in the state bordering Uruguay and Argentina, which had nearly half of its 497 cities affected, according to Rio Grande do Sul's civil defence.

The ruling on Friday came just two days before the vote and ends uncertainty that has loomed over Mulino’s campaign since he replaced former President Ricardo Martinelli as the candidate for the right-wing Realizando Metas (Realizing Goals) party.

tion, which carries a sentence of 11 years in prison.

Mulino had been Martinelli’s running mate, but went to the top of the ticket after Martinelli lost his appeal to overturn his money-laundering convic-

Panama’s Electoral Tribunal in March barred Martinelli from standing in the election, citing a provision in the constitution that prohibits anyone sentenced to five years or more from holding elected office.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Trinidad and Tobago recognises Palestine

Trinidad and Tobago is one of the latest countries to formally recognise the state of Palestine, in a Cabinet decision on Thursday.

A release from the Ministry of Foreign and Caricom Affairs said the decision was based on the advice of its Minister, Dr Amery Browne.

It said the recognition would help achieve peace by strengthening international consensus on Palestine's statehood.

"T&T has been a longstanding advocate of the two-State solution, as we believe that this is the only credible path to peace and security for Palestinians, the Israelis and, by extension, the wider region.

Recognition of Palestine is moral and just and demonstrates T&T's acknowledgement of and support for the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people.

"T&T will join 141 other countries that recognise Palestine, Algeria being the first to have done so in 1988," it said.

The release said T&T's support for the Palestinian people's right to self-determination can be seen in its endorsement of key resolutions on Palestine at the UN General Assembly (UNGA).

These include Resolution 67/19, which gave Palestine non-member observer state status in the UNGA, and the annual

resolutions of the UNGA on the permanent sovereignty of the Palestinian people in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, of the Arab population in the occupied Syrian Golan over their natural resources, and the peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine.

"Since the outbreak of the most recent round of violent conflict in Gaza in October 2023, T&T also supported resolutions adopted at the Emergency Special Sessions of the UNGA held on October 27 and December 10, 2023, on the protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations."

(Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

In several towns, streets essentially turned into rivers, with roads and bridges destroyed. The storm also triggered landslides and the partial collapse of a dam structure at a small hydroelectric power plant.

A second dam in the city of Bento Goncalves is also at risk of collapsing, authorities said, ordering people who live nearby to evacuate.

The state is at a geographical meeting point between tropical and polar atmo-

spheres, which has created a weather pattern with periods of intense rains and others of drought.

Local scientists believe the pattern has been intensifying due to climate change.

Heavy rains had already hit Rio Grande do Sul last September, as an extratropical cyclone caused floods that killed more than 50 persons.

That came after more than two years of a persistent drought due to the La Niña phenomenon, with only scarce showers.

"It's not just another critical situation; it's probably the most critical case the state has ever recorded," Rio Grande do Sul Governor Eduardo Leite said in a live broadcast on social media on Thursday. He added that the death toll would likely climb as authorities have not been able to access certain locations.

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva travelled to the state on Thursday to visit affected locations and discuss rescue efforts with the Governor. (Reuters)

Jamaica moves up 8 places on World Press Freedom index

Jamaica moved up eight places in the 2024 World Press Freedom index and is now ranked 24th out of 180 countries.

It makes Jamaica the highest-ranked country in the Caribbean, with Trinidad and Tobago one place behind at number 25.

Dubbing the recent ranking as a “testament to the nation’s commitment to creating a safe and open environment for Journalists”, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) in a statement on Friday said it was proud of the country’s advancement.

In the statement, Prime Minister Andrew Holness said the ranking not only reflected the country’s dedication to press freedom, but was also the result of the “successful implementation of our policies aimed at enhancing the flow of factual and timely information to our citizens.”

Meanwhile, Minister with responsibility for information, Robert Nesta Morgan, attributed the placement to what he said were the Government’s proactive policies on information access and initiatives to enrich the information eco-

system for public benefit.

“This ranking reaffirms Jamaica’s dedication to improving conditions for journalistic work, ensuring the safety of media professionals, and fostering an atmosphere where press freedom is integral to our strong democracy and increased government transparency and accountability,” Morgan said

The index, compiled by global media watchdog Reporters Without Borders, was released Friday. Norway, Denmark and Sweden are the top three countries on the list.

(Jamaica Observer)

Women walk under the rain ON the Malfety neighbourhood of Fort Liberte, Haiti, April 27, 2024 (Reuters/Ricardo Arduengo photo)

A drone view shows an area affected by the floods in Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, May 3, 2024 (Jeff Botega/Agencia RBS via Reuters)

Around the World

OOil settles down on US jobs data, steepest weekly loss in 3 months

OIL NEWS

UN agencies prepare for Rafah incursion, warn of “slaughter”

Ail prices settled lower on Friday, and posted their steepest weekly loss in three months as investors weighed weak US jobs data and possible timing of a Federal Reserve interest rate cut.

Brent crude futures for July settled 71 cents lower, or 0.85 per cent, to US$82.96 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for June fell 84 cents, or 1.06 per cent, to US$78.11 a barrel.

Investors were concerned that higher-for-longer borrowing costs would curb economic growth in the US, the world's leading oil consumer, after the Federal Reserve decided this week to hold interest rates steady.

For the week, Brent declined more than seven per cent while WTI fell 6.8 per cent.

US job growth slowed more than expected in April and the annual wage gain cooled, data showed on Friday, prompting traders to raise bets that the US central bank will deliver its first interest rate cut this year in September.

"The economy is slowing a little bit," said Tim Snyder, economist at Matador Economics. "But (the data) gives a path forward for the Fed to have at least one rate cut this year," he said.

The Fed held rates steady this week and flagged high inflation readings that could delay rate cuts. Higher rates typically weigh on the economy and can reduce oil demand.

The market is repricing the expected timing of possible rate cuts after the release of softer-than-expected monthly jobs data, said Giovanni Staunovo, an analyst at UBS.

US energy companies this week cut the number of oil and natural gas rigs operating for a second week in a row, to the lowest since January 2022, Baker Hughes said in its closely-followed report on Friday.

The oil and gas rig count, an early indicator of future output, fell by eight to 605 in the week to May 3, in the biggest weekly decline since September 2023. The number of oil rigs fell seven to 499 this week, in the biggest weekly drop since November 2023.

Geopolitical risk premiums due to the Israel-Hamas war have faded as the two sides consider a temporary ceasefire and hold talks with international mediators.

Further ahead, the next meeting of members of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies including Russia (OPEC+) – is set for June 1.

Three sources from the OPEC+ group said it could extend its voluntary oil output cuts beyond June if oil demand does not increase.

Money managers cut their net long US crude futures and options positions in the week to April 30, the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) said. (Reuters)

Dairy worker bird flu case shows need for protective gear, US CDC study shows

The Texas dairy farm worker infected with H5N1 bird flu was not wearing respiratory or eye protection and had been exposed to cattle that appeared to have the same symptoms as those in a nearby farm with a confirmed outbreak of the virus, according to new details on the case released on Friday.

The details, reported online in the New England Journal of Medicine, underscore the risk to farm workers in the ongoing outbreak among US dairy cattle and the need to wear protective gear to avoid infection.

The outbreak – the first in cattle – is so far known to have infected 36 dairy herds in nine states.

Infection by the bird virus is rare in humans, and the dairy worker's case, first reported in March, represents

only the second known human infection in the United States.

It follows a worrisome spread of the virus in a variety of mammal species, raising concerns that widespread exposure of people could cause the virus to spread more easily among the population and spark a global pandemic.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the report said the farm worker developed a serious infection in his right eye known as conjunctivitis, or pink eye, but had no signs of respiratory infection or fever.

The worker had not reported any contact with sick or dead birds or other animals, but did have close exposure with sick dairy cows, with symptoms such as decreased milk production, reduced appetite and lethargy. (Excerpt from Reuters)

n Israeli incursion in Rafah would put the lives of hundreds of thousands of Gazans at risk and be a huge blow to the aid operations of the entire enclave, the United Nations humanitarian office said on Friday, as the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced contingency plans for an incursion.

Israel has repeatedly warned of an operation against Hamas in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where around a million displaced people are crowded together, having fled months of Israeli bombardments triggered by Hamas fighters' deadly cross-border attack on October 7.

"It could be a slaughter of civilians and an incredible blow to the humanitar-

ian operation in the entire strip because it is run primarily out of Rafah," said Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the UN humanitarian office (OCHA), at a Geneva press briefing.

Israel has said it will work to ensure the safe evacuation of civilians from Rafah. The United States has long said it cannot support an assault on Rafah by its ally Israel unless there is a comprehensive plan to protect civilians.

Israel has given Washington some preliminary information, said a US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, but "we haven't seen a full plan, nothing that would give us the confidence we're looking for".

A second US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the Israeli

proposal outlining the provision of shelter, food, and evacuation routes "needs more work".

Aid operations in Rafah include medical clinics,

warehouses stocked with humanitarian supplies, food distribution points and 50 centres for acutely-malnourished children, Laerke said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Fresh chaos, arrests on US, college campuses; French students join protest

Police forcibly removed scores of defiant pro-Palestinian protesters at several colleges on Thursday, including taking down an encampment at UCLA in a jarring scene that underscored the heightened chaos that has erupted at universities this week.

In the pre-dawn hours, helmeted Police swarmed

a tent city set up at the University of California in Los Angeles, using flash bangs and riot gear to push through lines of protesters who linked arms in a futile attempt to halt their advance.

Los Angeles Police said on social media that 210 people were arrested at UCLA, and hundreds of arrests were made at other

Kyiv can use British weapons inside Russia – Cameron

United Kingdom

Foreign Secretary

Lord Cameron has said it is up to Ukraine to decide how to use British weapons and insisted it has the right to strike targets on Russian territory.

During a visit to Kyiv, he said the UK would provide US$3.75 billion per year for as long as necessary.

"Just as Russia is striking inside Ukraine, you can quite understand why Ukraine feels the need to make sure it's defending itself," Lord Cameron said.

Russia condemned what it called "another very dangerous statement".

"This is a direct escalation of tension around the Ukrainian conflict, which would potentially pose a threat to European security," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

Lord Cameron did not directly endorse the idea of British weapons being used to strike targets inside Russia.

But until now, the UK has generally let it be understood – without spelling it out – that weapons such as the long-range Storm Shadow missile should only be used inside sovereign Ukrainian territory. There have been several examples of its successful use in Russian-occupied Crimea, including against elements of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet.

However, coming on the heels of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s pledge to give Ukraine US$3.76 billion in military assistance every year for the foreseeable future, it seems Lord Cameron wanted to emphasise that it is up to Ukraine to decide what it does with it.

The US has reportedly urged Ukraine to halt its strikes on oil refineries in Russia, fearing it could provoke an escalation in the conflict. (Excerpt from BBC News)

universities overnight and on Thursday. Students have rallied or set up tents at dozens of universities in recent days to protest Israel's war on Gaza.

Demonstrators have called on President Joe Biden, who has supported Israel's right to defend itself, to do more to stop the bloodshed in Gaza and demanded schools divest from companies that support Israel's Government.

Meanwhile, Police in Paris entered France's prestigious Sciences Po univer-

sity on Friday and removed student activists who had occupied its buildings overnight in protest against Israel's conduct in its war against Hamas in Gaza.

A Reuters witness saw Police go into the buildings and take out many of the 70odd pro-Palestinian protesters inside. Unlike on some college campuses across the United States, the French protests have been peaceful and there were no signs of violence as the students were brought out of the buildings. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Canadian Police charge 3 with murder of Sikh leader

Three Indian nationals have been arrested and charged over the killing of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada, which sparked a major diplomatic row between the two countries.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar, 45, was shot dead last June by masked gunmen in a busy car park in a Vancouver suburb.

The diplomatic row escalated after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged India's Government may have been involved.

Delhi strongly denied the allegation.

In announcing the arrests on Friday, Superintendent Mandeep Mooker said the three suspects were Karan Brar, 22; Kamal Preet Singh, 22; and Karan Preet Singh, 28.

He said all three had been living in Edmonton, Alberta where they were arrested. They have been charged with first-degree murder, court records show, as well as conspiracy to commit murder.

All had been in Canada for three to five years, Police said.

Police added that investigations were continuing, including into "connections to the Government of India".

Nijjar was a Canadian citizen campaigning for the creation of Khalistan, an independent Sikh homeland carved out of India. The presence of Sikh separatist groups in Canada has long frustrated New Delhi, which had labelled Nijjar a "terrorist". (Excerpts from BBC News and Reuters)

Mourners react next to the bodies of Palestinians killed in an Israeli strike, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, at Abu Yousef al-Najjar hospital in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, May 3, 2024 (Reuters/Hatem Khaled photo)

SUDOKU

(March 21-April 19)

Take charge and tidy up loose ends. Use your ingenuity and reform how you run your household. A few tweaks will lower your overhead and help you gain financial stability.

Assert yourself and make a difference. Don’t fold under pressure; a positive attitude and a stellar plan will lead to success. Reach out to people with something to offer.

(May 21-June 20) (April 20-May 20)

Verify information before you pass it along. Don’t take a risk to prove a point. Participate in events that stimulate your mind. Don’t put yourself in harm’s way.

(June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Don’t fight the inevitable. A partnership adjustment will help you gain confidence and control. Concentrate on learning something new. Participate in events that interest you.

Listen, and you’ll discover information that helps you decide if someone is offering you something valid. Back away from people using pressure tactics, and rely on your intelligence.

Build momentum and don’t stop until you get your desired results. The stars favor learning, traveling and communication. Partnerships look inviting, and opportunities will develop if you collaborate.

Put your energy where it counts, challenge yourself to do better and participate in events that stimulate your mind, body and spirit. Pump up the volume and share your thoughts.

People who can offer originality and stability will attract you. Networking and attending events that provide something unique or thought-provoking will help you make some adjustments.

Get out and mingle. Don’t believe everything you hear or buy into someone else’s dream unless it is in sync with your own. With the right attitude, the sky’s the limit.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Don’t share too much personal information. What you find out through observation, asking questions and using charm will prove valuable. Growth, romance and participation are favored.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Be a good listener and gain insight into what you can expect from others. Get involved in your community by offering a helping hand. A challenge will lead to insight.

Don’t be afraid to be different. Move forward with your plans, interact with like-minded people and make a difference in your circle. Attend a reunion or take a walk down memory lane.

IPL 2024: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians…

KKR break 12-year Wankhede jinx

– as Venkatesh, Starc star

Kolkata Knight Riders further embedded themselves near the top of the IPL table, and Mumbai Indians' hopes of qualifying for the final four took another big hit. How MI managed to lose a match in which they took five KKR wickets in the first 37 legal deliveries will require some examination from the franchise brains trust.

Essentially, MI didn't go for the kill when they had KKR on the ropes at 43 for 4, then 57 for 5. And although MI closed the innings nicely through Bumrah, their having allowed KKR to recover through an 83-run stand between Venkatesh Iyer and Manish Pandey would haunt them in the end.

Their own top order was shambolic, as has been the case through the season. But still, thanks to a good innings from Suryakumar Yadav, MI were in with hope into the death. Mitchell Starc put paid to those hopes, however, and MI were all out for 145 in the 19th over.

Starc locks it down

Despite their faltering

Kolkata Knight Riders (20 ovs maximum)

Phil Salt †c Tilak Varma

b Thushara 5

Sunil Narine

b Pandya 8 Angkrish Raghuvanshi c Yadav

b Thushara 13

Shreyas Iyer (c)c David

b Thushara 6

Venkatesh Iyer

b Bumrah 70 Rinku Singh

c & b Chawla 9 Manish Pandey c sub (D Brevis)

b Pandya 42 Andre Russell run out (Thushara/Pandya) 7 Ramandeep Singh c Coetzee

b Bumrah 2 Mitchell Starc

b Bumrah 0 Vaibhav Arora not out 0

Extras (lb 1, nb 1, w 5) 7

TOTAL 19.5 Ov (RR: 8.52) 169

Did not bat: Varun Chakravarthy

Fall of wickets: 1-7 (Phil Salt, 0.4 ov), 2-22 (Angkrish Raghuvanshi, 2.2 ov), 3-28 (Shreyas Iyer, 2.6 ov), 4-43 (Sunil Narine, 4.2 ov), 5-57 (Rinku Singh, 6.1 ov), 6-140 (Manish Pandey, 16.2 ov), 7-153 (Andre Russell, 16.6 ov), 8-155 (Ramandeep Singh, 17.4 ov), 9-155 (Mitchell Starc, 17.6 ov), 10169 (Venkatesh Iyer, 19.5 ov) • DRS

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Nuwan Thushara 4-0-42-3

Jasprit Bumrah 3.5-0-18-3 Gerald Coetzee 2-0-24-0 Hardik Pandya

4-0-44-2

Naman Dhir 3-0-25-0

Piyush Chawla 3-0-15-1

start, MI still only needed 51 runs off the last five overs, with Suryakumar at the crease on 56. Andre Russel bowled the 16th over, and Suryakumar will feel he should have done better with the knee-high full toss he got second ball. Instead of launching it into the legside stands, he got a huge top edge that flew to-

SCOREBOARD

Mumbai Indians (T: 170 runs from 20 ovs)

Ishan Kishan † b Starc 13

Rohit Sharma c Pandey b Narine 11

Naman Dhir

b Varun 11

Suryakumar Yadav c †Salt b Russell 56

Tilak Varma c Narine b Varun 4

Nehal Wadhera b Narine 6 Hardik Pandya (c)c Pandey b Russell 1 Tim David c SS Iyer b Starc 24

Gerald Coetzee b Starc 8

Piyush Chawla c Narine b Starc 0

Jasprit Bumrah not out 1

Extras (lb 3, nb 1, w 6) 10

TOTAL 18.5 Ov (RR: 7.69) 145 Fall of wickets: 1-16 (Ishan Kishan, 1.4 ov), 2-38 (Naman Dhir, 4.1 ov), 3-46 (Rohit Sharma, 5.5 ov), 4-61 (Tilak Varma, 8.4 ov), 5-70 (Nehal Wadhera, 10.5 ov), 6-71 (Hardik Pandya, 11.2 ov), 7-120 (Suryakumar Yadav, 15.3 ov), 8-144 (Tim David, 18.2 ov), 9-144 (Piyush Chawla, 18.3 ov), 10145 (Gerald Coetzee, 18.5 ov) • DRS BOWLING O-M-R-W Vaibhav Arora 3-0-35-0 Mitchell Starc 3.5-0-33-4 Varun Chakravarthy 4-0-22-2 Sunil Narine 4-0-22-2 Andre Russell 4-0-30-2

wards fine leg, with wicketkeeper Phil Salt able to chase it down and take it comfortably in his gloves. It was Starc who real ly ended MI's chances though. He bowled a spectacular 17th over in which he conceded only three runs. And when MI needed 32 off the last two overs, he did con

KKR needed something to defend. And Venkatesh's 70 off 52 was the spine of KKR's innings. He was

cede a six off first ball of the 19th, but had Tim David caught at long on next ball, had Piyush Chawla chip one to extra cover immediately after, then wiped out the innings with a yorker that took out Gerald Coetzee's middle stump.

After a rough start to the IPL, Starc came back in this match with figures of 4 for 33, having also dismissed Ishan Kishan with the new ball.

Venkatesh Iyer digs KKR out of a hole

Before Starc could work his magic with the ball,

als. They were 51 for 4 after five overs, 83 for 5 after 10, and got to triple figures in the 12th over of the innings. This was in large part thanks to Venkatesh, and to Pandey, who kept seeking out boundary opportunities instead of settling too deep into accumulation mode. Pandey was out for 42 off 31 in the 17th over, but Iyer stayed till the 20th, and was the last to be out, off the penultimate ball. Of his three sixes, the back away and crash over long off off the bowling of Hardik Pandya was the most memorable.

Bumrah almost unplayable

Though MI continue to stink up the IPL, Bumrah is their unerring talisman, today finishing with figures of 3 for 18 off 3.5 overs. In his first over, he conceded just two runs, but Hardik

a four.

But, at the death, he was exemplary, taking two wickets and conceding just two runs off the 18th over, before hemming Venkatesh in and getting him out off the fifth ball of the last over - the batter having

did not bring his best bowler back, not even when KKR were struggling in the first seven overs. Bumrah then had one modest middle-overs over, in which Pandey hit him for a six and

tried to scoop him over the shoulder, only to miss and to have his middle stump knocked out of the ground. He had scored just two runs off the previous four deliveries. (ESPNcricinfo)

That's the game, and that's a four-fer for Mitchell Starc

Suryakumar Yadav brought up a 30-ball half-century

Manish Pandey had a big job to do, and did it well

Piyush Chawla got in on the act immediately after the powerplay

Windies Women’s tour to Pakistan 2024…

Windies clinch T20I series 4-1 against Pakistan

– Through Hayley Matthews' 78

Hayley Matthews end-

ed her dream tour of Pakistan as she started it, with yet another commanding performance as West Indies coasted to an eight-wicket win in Karachi.

Smashing 78 in 59 balls, the West Indies captain made light work of Pakistan's first innings total of 134, with the visitors getting there with ten balls to spare. West Indies won the series 4-1. West Indies have demonstrated that Thursday's in-

BOWLING O-M-R-W Kate Wilmott 1-0-13-0

Cherry-Ann Fraser 2-0-12-0

Aaliyah Alleyne 4-0-33-1

Qiana Joseph 4-0-26-2

b

b

Did not bat: Sadia Iqbal

Fall of wickets: 1-38 (Ayesha Zafar, 4.6 ov), 2-84 (Muneeba Ali, 12.2 ov), 3-86 (Nida Dar, 12.6 ov), 4-101 (Gull Feroza, 15.1 ov), 5-101 (Fatima Sana, 15.2 ov), 6-109 (Natalia Pervaiz, 16.3 ov), 7-116 (Najiha Alvi, 17.4 ov), 8-121 (Sidra Ameen, 18.5 ov)

Hayley Matthews 4-0-24-1

Afy Fletcher 4-0-17-3

Zaida James 1-0-8-0

West Indies Women (T: 135 runs from 20 ovs)

Hayley Matthews (c)

b Nashra Sandhu 78

Rashada Williams c Gull Feroza

b Sadia Iqbal 16

Shemaine Campbelle †not out 33

Zaida James not out 7 Extras (w 2) 2

TOTAL 18.2 Ov (RR: 7.41) 136/2

Did not bat: Chinelle Henry, Aaliyah Alleyne, Jannillea Glasgow, Afy Fletcher, Qiana Joseph, CherryAnn Fraser, Kate Wilmott Fall of wickets: 1-25 (Rashada Williams, 4.5 ov), 2-128 (Hayley Matthews, 17.3 ov)

BOWLING O-M-R-W

Sadia Iqbal 4-0-24-1

Fatima Sana 3-0-25-0

Rameen Shamim 4-1-22-0

Nashra Sandhu 4-0-28-1

Nida Dar 3.2-0-37-0

different performance was an aberration, and were right on it from the moment they won the toss and put Pakistan in to bat. Pakistan started brightly with a 38-run opening partnership in five overs, and after Qiana Joseph cleaned up Ayesha Zafar following a 16ball 22, Sidra Ameen and Muneeba Ali went about rebuilding effectively. By the 12th over, the hosts sat pretty at 84 for 1, ostensibly set up for a big finish. But, led by legspinner Afy Fletcher, West Indies engineered an almighty Pakistan collapse.

23 from Rupununi earn certificates at Referee Introductory Course

Twenty-three (23) more individuals, including six (6) females, from the Rupununi in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), on Sunday successfully completed the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF’s) Referee Introductory Course as part of the Federation’s efforts to bolster the referee pool.

GFF Head of Referees Lenval Peart and Referees Instructor Sherwin Johnson led the practical and theoretical workshop, conducted from April 26-28 in Lethem, Rupununi. Participants were tasked with grasping the intricacies of the beautiful game and the integral role referees play in matches, which included familiarising themselves with international regulations and guidelines.

They also completed vital fitness evaluations.

Gibert Salty, Clifford Marcel, Neville Gillette, Peter Isaacs, Vandette Henry, Loraine Alcides, Ireen Chico, Don Melville, Christopher Phillips, Adon Jacobus, Morphie Robertson, Samantha Paulino, David Francis, Shannon Williams, Glenia Charles, Garville Daniels, Carl Albert, Gabriel David, Clivelin Captain, Ovid Brown, Gilbert Williams, Ronaldo Ignatio and Rowl Victoriano were each awarded a certificate at the end of the workshop.

Peart said he was satisfied with the group’s high level of engagement and focus on understanding the game.

“The GFF remains committed to investing in training programmes aimed at recruiting new referees to guarantee the presence of officials for matches across Guyana,” he disclosed.

“Additionally, we also ensure our registered referees' participation in FIFA and CONCACAF training seminars, so that they stay abreast of international rules and regulations,” he added.

He also said the recruitment drive would continue throughout the year.

Since the beginning of the recruitment drive, seventy-six (76) individuals, including former footballers, have successfully completed the course and are now registered with the GFF Referees Department.

Only Rameen Shamim -whose late unbeaten 11-ball 16 got Pakistan past 130 -managed double figures after the top three. Pakistan lost seven wickets for 37 runs as Fletcher, Joseph and Matthews all cashed in, strangling the innings until Shamim's final-over flourish. Sidra top-scored for Pakistan with a 52-ball 48.

But West Indies had the momentum, and never tru-

ly ceded it. Matthews started cautiously once more, allowing Rashada Williams to inflict the early jabs. Sadia Iqbal got rid of her in the fifth over, but that brought out Shemaine Campbelle who, together with Matthews, put together a 103run partnership, terminally ending any Pakistan hopes of another consolation win.

Towards the second half of that innings, Matthews seemed to be finding bound-

GABF U23 Club Championship… Basketball play resumes today

Basketball action returns to the spotlight with the Guyana Amateur Basketball Association’s (GABF’s) U23 Championship being played today at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue.

It is expected to be a showcase of potential basketballers for national selection to represent Guyana on the international stage.

The Jaguar Conference will kick off the action at 17:00hrs with the Leonora D-up taking on North Ruimveldt Ravens, and both teams would love to secure their first win and increase their chance of qualifying for the next round.

To end the day’s action, the young and trending team Black Caimans would be going up against

the Wortmanville squad at 19:00hrs, in a game anticipated to generate lots of excitement, as both teams bring fire to the table.

The tournament kicked off with 12 teams divided into two groups named Group A and Group B, with a projected 34 games. The teams of Group A are Stabroek Eagles, Leonora D-UP Rising Stars, Cummingsburg Bounty Colts, Lamaha Park/ Springs Pepsi Sonics, North Ruimveldt Ravens, and Meadowbrook Nets

The Group B squads are the Wortmanville/ Werk-en-Rust Pacesetters, Black Caimans, Kwakwani Untouchables, Prospect Kobras, Alberttown Valhalla Knights, and Cummings Lodge UG Trojans.

aries at will, 11 of them sprinkled throughout her innings as she surpassed 50 and helped her side hurtle towards what suddenly looked like an inadequate target. Campbell, meanwhile eased along for an unbeaten 33 off 35, happy to play second fiddle at a master in full flow.

Pakistan did manage to get Matthews out one final time in the series, Nashra Sandhu knocking her stumps back. But by then West Indies needed just seven to win, and Matthews's work was done. (ESPNcricinfo)

West Indies have clinched the T20I series 4-1 against Pakistan

Intense action is expected today

A look at the practical session of the Referee Introductory Course in the Rupununi

Guyana’s World

Relay Team adjusted

…Second event added

¾ of the Record-breaking Commonwealth Youth Games Relay Team will now compete at the senior level at the World Relay Championships

The Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) has announced changes to the World Relay Championships Team that is set to compete this weekend in the Bahamas.

Simeon Adams and Patrick Abel have been added to the squad to make

room for Guyana’s participation in another event, while Narissa McPherson will replace Kenisha Phillips.

Malachi Austin, Tianna Springer, Daniel Williams, Arinze Chance and Aliyah Abrams are the other members of the Guyana team. In addition to the Mixed

4x400M event, the race Guyana was initially scheduled to compete in solely, the Guyanese will also compete in the Men’s 4x400M after the withdrawal of another country’s team. The Championships will span May 4 and 5, with James Cole acting as Team Manager.

ExxonMobil named title sponsor of Inter-School Kayaking Competition

Oil Giant ExxonMobil Guyana has hopped aboard the third annual Inter-School Kayaking Competition as the title sponsor. The event is set to take place today, Sunday, May 5, at the Watooka Guest House in Linden.

Hosted by Elite Kayaking & Nature Tours, an operator licensed by the Guyana Tourism Authority, the event gets underway from 11:00am. The competition has quickly become a highlight in the calendar, attracting 12 secondary schools from across Berbice, West Demerara, Georgetown, Linden, and Kwakwani; with Kwakwani returning to defend their title. The event aims to foster unity among education, sports, and tourism sectors, contributing to the growth of

Guyana’s tourism and sports economy and promoting the concept of "sports tourism." Participants will compete in various age categories, including under-14, under-16, under-18, and open across 14 races. These include male and female single kayaking, mixed team double kayaking, and male and female long-distance relays, which combine road running and kayaking. The competition will showcase the participants' stamina, skills and speed, as schools vie for the grand prize of $450,000 for the first place, $250,000 for second, and $150,000 for third; along with trophies, medals, and tokens. Safety is paramount at Elite Kayaking and Nature Tours. As such, the event would feature numerous lifeguards, boats, and jet skis to ensure the races are safe. A

Women's Chess Championship title in the balance

After six rounds of play, National Women's Champion Jessica Callender is ahead on tiebreak with five points in the Diamond Insurance 2024 National Women's Chess Championship.

The nine-round round-robin competition commenced last weekend at the National Racquet Centre with ten females vying for the coveted national title. Callender won against Treskole Archibald, Emma John, Sasha Shariff, Chelsea Harrison, and Parnita Kishun, but lost to Nellisha Johnson in the second round.

The second-round duel with the defending women's champion and Johnson ended in checkmate to Callender's King. Each player 'castled' their King on opposite sides of the board, and an intense struggle ensued. Johnson successfully mounted an attack on Callender's King with her Queen and Rook invading the central files.

Callender's defending Knight was captured in the onslaught, leaving the undefended King exposed to checkmate, and Johnson sealing the victory.

Young Aditi Joshi remains a force to be reckoned with, with five points after victories against Johnson, Harrison, Shazeeda Rahim and Emma John. Joshi drew with Shariff and Archibald in rounds three and six. The thirteen-year-old came out ahead of all her female coun-

terparts in the qualifying tournament for the championship.

An endgame struggle between Joshi and Rahim in Round Four was dominated by their fighting Kings and mobile pawns marching to become Queens. Joshi gained the upper hand by successfully 'queening' her pawn first to execute checkmate. With her lone monarch left on the board versus Joshi's superior King and Queen, Rahim resigned, giving her opponent the win after almost 60 moves.

Johnson and Ciel Clement are tied with 4.5 points, while Shariff and Archibald are on 3.5. Joshi and Callender will clash in Round 9 this weekend in a battle expected to determine the winner of the 2024 National Women’s Championship. With three matches remaining for each player, it is anybody's guess

who would emerge as the winner. If both players end up with the same number of points, a playoff would become inevitable.

The tournament, sponsored by Diamond Insurance, continues on May 4th and ends on May 5th. The FIDErated competition is under the supervision of FIDE Arbiter John Lee. The young female players would get a chance to earn ratings depending on their success in winning the games against their rated opponents. Unfortunately, Rahim was unable to continue to compete due to unforeseen circumstances.

Games are live-streamed on livechesscloud.com. To keep updated with the tournament, visit chessresults. com for results and pairings. For more information, visit the GCF's website: guyanachess.gy, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

KFC Elite League… Slingerz, GDF in ‘Clash of the Titans’ tonight

The first half of the 2024 KFC Elite League Season Six is expected to come to a thrilling close tonight. The ‘Senior Football’ clash of the year is scheduled to go down at the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF’s) National Training Center at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

water ambulance equipped with a medical team will be on standby, alongside a landbased medical bay staffed with doctors, nurses, and a physiotherapist. Additionally, police presence both on land and water will guarantee a secure, family-friendly environment.

ExxonMobil Guyana's title sponsorship reflects its commitment to community engagement, student opportunity, sports, and youth development, highlighting the invaluable support from corporate sponsors that drive the success of this annual competition.

For further details on the event, one can contact Organizer Dr. Deon Anderson, proprietor of Elite Kayaking & Nature Tours, at 620-4659, or via email at deonanderson@yahoo.com.

For the first time since their return to the highest League of the land, Slingerz FC will match strides with defending Champions Guyana Defence Force (GDF) FC.

Tonight’s ‘Clash of the Titans’ will come as part of a double header being played at the Providence venue that would signal 45 games having been completed in this year’s League.

First, at 18:30hrs, Santos FC would lock horns with Western Tigers FC, while the feature game is set for 21:00hrs.

What makes the clash even sweeter is the fact that both GDF and Slingerz are yet to taste defeat in this year’s Elite League; and further, they are yet to drop a point, having won all of their matches. While both teams have a perfect 24 points from

8 games played, GDF holds the advantage with a goal difference of 36. On the other hand, Slingerz’s goal difference currently sits at 33. An outright result in today’s clash would clearly define the gap between the two teams, heading into the second half of Season 6.

Meanwhile, most of the other 6 teams in the League have their points set in stone after completing their allotted matches in the first half.

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) FC, after losses to the ‘big two’ teams and a 1-1 draw with Fruta Conquerors on Thursday last, have 19 points

from 9 games played. Just below are Western Tigers with 12 points from 7 games, while Santos FC are fifth with 12 points from 8 games. Den Amstel FC comes next with 10 points from 8 games, while Fruta Conquerors have an equal 10 points from 9 games played. All having completed their 9 games, Ann’s Grove United, Monedderlust FC and Buxton United FC occupy the bottom three spots with 7, 4 and 1 respectively. After tonight’s double header, the FKFC Elite League 2024 is expected to resume on Saturday, May 18.

A scene from the Women’s National Chess Championship

A glimpse of what to expect this Sunday at the Inter-School Kayaking Competition

Slingerz FC are gearing up for their anticipated clash with GDF FC

named in West Indies World Cup Squad

Five Guyanese: Shimron Hetmyer, Shamar Joseph, Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie and Sherfane Rutherford, have been selected in the West Indies squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, set for June 1st to 29th in the USA and in the Caribbean.

The announcement was made by the Chairman of Selectors, the Most Honourable Dr. Desmond Haynes, and Head Coach Daren Sammy at a press conference in Barbados on Friday morning.

Chairman of Selectors, Dr. Desmond Haynes, speaking at the press conference, expressed confidence that this team would reign supreme at the World Cup.

“I am very excited! This is a very good time in West Indies Cricket, and I believe that you know we’ve got a team that could win this World Cup, and I feel damn good about this! I feel that we can win this World Cup. I am making it very clear to everybody that whatever team that you hear us put out today, that team we feel is going to win the World Cup,” Haynes said.

the players. Sammy shared, “Every country that plays you know would enjoy playing at home.

I think I wouldn’t say it is an advantage, but it is always good to see a full house of your fans coming out to support you, operating as a twelfth man on that pitch. You know, in this age, with all the data collection, I don’t think there is so much of an advantage in playing at home. But what we know is that we understand our conditions, and playing in front of a crowd that brings that energy should motivate and inspire my players some more.”

The squad reads: Captain Rovman Powell, Vice-Captain Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Johnson Charles, Shai Hope, Nicholas Pooran, Sherfane Rutherford, Shimron Hetmyer, Andre Russell, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Gudakesh Motie, Akeal Hosein, Roston Chase and Shamar Joseph.

Meanwhile, Head Coach Daren Sammy, also speaking at the event, expounded on the impact that playing at home would have on inspiring

West Indies are in Group C, along with Papua New Guinea (PNG), Uganda, New Zealand and Afghanistan. Their first two games will be contested at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara against PNG on June 2 and against Uganda on June 8. They then play New Zealand at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on June 12, before their last group game, against Afghanistan on June 17 in St. Lucia.