Collective, integrated approach needed to curb crime within region
– says Guyana’s security budget increased by 154% between 2019 & 2024 …draft Caricom Arrest Warrant Bill completed
WHAT'S INSIDE: Bartica pensioner gets bail on gun, ammo possession
Corentyne fire that killed 5 was deliberately set - Divisional Fire Officer
Govt awards $1.1B in contracts for road works in Kwakwani
Lorry driver gets $500,000 for fatal Sherrif Street collision Guyanese wins prestigious Lambeth Cross for outstanding service
Officials of the Education Ministry, ExxonMobil Guyana, Queen’s College and Recover Guyana
ACP Brutus slapped with 21 additional charges, placed on $1.4M bail
– SOCU also charges businessman, police sergeant for conspiracy
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Calvin Brutus made another court appearance on Friday to answer to another 21 charges in connection with a sprawling investigation into alleged financial crimes.
The charges, filed by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), bring the total number of accusations against Brutus to 252, including fraud, misconduct in public office, money laundering, and liability of an officer.
Brutus, businessman Corwin Nicholson, and
Police Sergeant Latoya Brumel were jointly charged with conspiracy to commit a
felony. SOCU alleged that between December 2023 and January 2024, the trio defrauded the Guyana Police Force (GPF) over $101 million by securing payments for undelivered goods.
Each of them was granted bail of $700,000.
Brutus also faced separate charges of misconduct in public office and liability of an officer, with bail set at $350,000 for each set of charges. In total, he was granted $1.4 million bail for Friday’s court proceedings.
Nicholson also faced seven counts of obtaining money under false pretences and was granted bail of $150,000 per charge. His total bail was $1.05 million.
The investigation into Brutus began in June of this year when irregular financial activities were flagged in his Police Credit Union account. A subsequent probe revealed over $800 million across eight frozen bank accounts held by Brutus, his wife Adonika Aulder, their son, and companies registered in their names. These accounts were allegedly linked to firms supplying goods to the Police Force, which prosecutors claim were never delivered.
The latest charges add to 231 accusations brought against Brutus recently. These include 201 charges filed earlier this week, for which he was granted
$10.5 million in bail, and 30 charges in prior proceedings, with bail totalling $6 million. Across all cases, Brutus's bail amounts now stand at $17.6 million.
SOCU has accused Brutus of misusing his position as Deputy Commissioner of Administration to orchestrate fraudulent procurement schemes. Allegations include directing police finance officers to issue cheques for undelivered supplies such as boots, uniforms, and handcuffs.
In a separate legal move on Tuesday, Brutus filed a $400 million lawsuit against senior officers of the GPF and SOCU, accusing them of misconduct and abuse of power. He claims that be-
tween July and October 2024, their actions caused irreparable harm to his personal and professional reputation.
The lawsuit names high-ranking officials, including SOCU Head Fazil Karimbaksh, Deputy Commissioner Ravindradat Budhram, Assistant Commissioner Errol Watts, SOCU Deputy Head Mahadeo Singh, Finance Officer Bharat Persaud, and Deputy Superintendent Frank Harvey, among others.
Another police officer is expected to face charges linked to the same investigation, as SOCU continues its probe into alleged systemic corruption within the GPF.
Brutus is scheduled to return to court on December 18, 2024, January 17, 2025, and January 31, 2025, as the high-profile cases proceed.
As the allegations and lawsuits unfold, the situation highlights potential deep-rooted issues within the force, drawing public scrutiny to the role of high-ranking officials in safeguarding the integrity of the institution.
Assistant Police Commissioner Calvin Brutus
Latoya Brumel
Businessman Corwin Nicholson
FERRY SCHEDULE
Collective, integrated approach needed to curb crime within region – Pres Ali
– says Guyana’s security budget increased by 154% between 2019 and 2024 …draft Caricom Arrest Warrant Bill completed
resident Dr Irfaan Ali has disclosed that between 2019 and 2024, Guyana’s budgetary allocations in the security sector have increased by a whopping 154 per cent – funds that he believes could have been redirected to other critical ar-
it’s also an increase of a larger budget. So, the actual impact is much higher than the percentage increase.”
“Now, imagine if we could have used 70 per cent of that [increase budgetary allocation] and reallocated to healthcare or pub-
eas that could enhance the social welfare of citizens.
The Head of State was at the time speaking at the Second Regional Symposium: Violence as a Public Health Issue – The Crime Challenge held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Greater Georgetown on Friday. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has classified crime as a public health issue, recognising its profound economic and social ramifications on member states.
It was against this backdrop that President Ali, using Guyana as an example, highlighted the social and financial impact that crime has on countries. He pointed out how Guyana’s bill for the security sector has massively increased over the years, taking away resources that could have otherwise been injected into improving social services such as healthcare.
“Between 2019 and 2024, to address security, we have had to increase our allocation on the security budget by 154 per cent… and it's not only the increase of 154 per cent,
trauma, emotional distress, the consequential effect on mental health, or the cost of mental health, because if you have stronger families, you have better healthcare. If you have stronger communities, we'll have a better public health system. Crime weakens families
interventions at an early stage.
“You’re speaking about something systemic, something that is endemic, something that is structural, something that is highly integrated into the behavioural cycle of people in the region. So, that is how
and weakens community, and weakens our public infrastructure and our public healthcare system,” the Guyanese Leader asserted.
Tackling crime early
The Head of State emphasised the need for collective action and an integrated approach to curb crime and address its root causes. He cited a recent United Nations report which stated that some 46 per cent of women in the Caribbean have experienced at least one act of violence. To this end, he emphasised the need for
deep we have to go… [But] we can't address this without having health, public health and education as part of the solution because if we are to solve it from a systemic perspective, then we must start from the primary school. So, as we incorporate public health in primary schools, we have to incorporate these issues also so that we have a whole generation coming up with a different perspective of life, and how we deal with these issues,” President Ali stated.
lic health… I'm not even talking about emotional
President Dr Irfaan Ali
Caricom Chair, Grenada Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell
Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr Keith Rowley
With the holiday season fast approaching, consumers are eager to stock up on gifts, treats, and other essentials to make the festivities memorable. However, this time of year also sees a troubling increase in unscrupulous practices by some businesses, including the sale of counterfeit, expired, and improperly labelled goods. Such acts not only violate consumer rights, but pose significant health risks to the public, especially to vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has issued a strong condemnation of these practices during his recent weekly press conference, emphasizing the need for stringent penalties against offenders. Citing personal experience with an expired product fraudulently relabelled to appear fresh, he underlined the serious dangers posed by such deception. His call for greater accountability and stronger enforcement of consumer protection regulations deserves widespread support.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has echoed similar concerns, highlighting the alarming increase in non-compliant products in the market. These include expired goods with tampered labels, counterfeit items masquerading as legitimate brands, and products with misleading or incomplete information. Such violations undermine the trust consumers place in businesses and regulatory authorities while exposing consumers to potential harm.
For instance, consuming expired foods and beverages could lead to food poisoning, severe allergic reactions, and even long-term health complications. Counterfeit products such as cosmetics or pharmaceuticals may contain harmful or ineffective ingredients, rendering them useless or dangerous. The risk is further compounded by the festive rush, as shoppers are less likely to scrutinize every label amidst the hustle and bustle.
Dr Jagdeo was candid in his critique of the agencies tasked with monitoring and enforcing these standards, suggesting lapses in oversight, and even potential corruption. Institutions like the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) must rise to the challenge. Their role in ensuring that all goods meet regulatory requirements is crucial in maintaining consumer safety and market integrity.
It is intolerable that individuals and businesses can put profits above the wellbeing of citizens. As Dr. Jagdeo stated, such actions are unconscionable and warrant severe penalties. However, the issue is not just about enforcement, but also about the resources and commitment needed to make these agencies more effective.
While the Government and regulatory bodies must step up their efforts, consumers also have a critical role to play. Vigilance is essential, particularly during the holiday season, when the volume of transactions skyrockets.
Here are some practical steps shoppers can take to protect themselves and their families:
a): Inspect labels carefully: Always check expiry dates, and look for signs of tampering, such as irregular fonts, smudges, or overlapping stickers
b): Buy from trusted sellers: Stick to reputable stores, and avoid deals that seem too good to be true, especially from unknown vendors
c): Report suspicious products: If you come across questionable items, report them to the GA-FDD or other relevant authorities
And d): Educate yourself: Stay informed about common counterfeit practices, and share this knowledge with friends and family.
Retailers also bear moral and legal obligations to ensure the goods on their shelves meet all safety and quality standards. Business associations like the GCCI should continue to advocate for ethical practices within their membership and beyond.
This issue calls for a multi-pronged approach involving stricter laws, better enforcement, and public awareness. Policymakers should consider introducing stiffer penalties for offenders, ranging from hefty fines to licence revocation. At the same time, investments in technology and training can help regulatory agencies become more efficient and transparent.
Collaboration between the public and private sectors is equally important. Joint initiatives to educate consumers and improved supply chain transparency could go a long way in curbing these unethical practices.
The holiday season should be a time of joy, not anxiety over the safety and authenticity of the products being purchased. Consumers must stay vigilant, and demand accountability.
Thank you, PM Modi
Dear Editor,
The visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Guyana was a historic and momentous occasion that strengthened the ties between our two nations.
On behalf of the people of Guyana, we extend our deepest gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for making the journey to our beautiful country, and for his commitment to enhancing the longstanding bond between Guyana and India.
During his visit, Prime
Minister Modi reaffirmed the shared values of democracy, development, and cooperation that unite us. His presence underscored the importance of our bilateral ties, and highlighted the rich history and cultural connections between the peoples of India and Guyana.
Guyana, with its abundant resources and growing economy, stands to gain immensely from India’s expertise, especially in areas like digital infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
Prime Minister Modi’s vision of fostering partnerships with Caribbean nations is a promising step towards new opportunities for progress in the region.
Further, the visit was a source of pride for the Indo-Guyanese community, which has long maintained deep cultural, familial, and historical ties with India.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit was not just a diplomatic mission, but a celebration of the enduring bond between India and Guyana; a connection root-
ed in shared heritage and values. As we move forward, the relationship between Guyana and India is set to reach new heights, driven by cooperation, mutual respect, and shared prosperity. The Prime Minister’s visit has opened doors to a new era of collaboration, and we are confident that the future holds great promise for growth, innovation, and friendship.
Yours sincerely, Rajiv Kadarnauth
Concern about road width along Thorne
Dear Minister Edghill, I write to draw your attention to an issue in my neighbourhood, Thorne Street in Tucville, regarding the specifications of a road that is currently under construction, and to respectfully offer potential solutions.
The road, previously asphalted, is being replaced with a concrete surface as part of the Government’s broader road refurbishment initiatives. While this upgrade is welcome and appreciated, the new road is only 12 feet wide, which poses significant challenges for two-way vehicular traffic. This insufficient width would force vehicles onto the shoulders when passing, which could lead to premature damage and increased maintenance costs.
Upon inquiring with the relevant persons, including the engineer assigned to
the project, I was informed that the contract specifies a 12-foot-wide road. This response left me concerned about the decision-making process for determining road widths, and the potential implications for taxpayers, who ultimately fund these projects.
In the interest of constructive engagement, I respectfully suggest the following immediate solutions:
1: Widening current roads where feasible: For ongoing projects like the one on Thorne Street, consider amending the specifications to a minimum width of 16 feet, which is better suited for two-way traffic. In Tucville, there are wide parapets that would allow for this extension. I would appreciate your intervention at this stage of the project, before the road is completed.
2: Reinforcing road
shoulders: Extending the road for two feet on each side would allow for reinforced road shoulders that would ensure a longer life span for the road.
3: Community engagement: Establishing a mechanism for community consultations during the planning stages of infrastructure projects could ensure that designs more adequately meet local needs.
4: Revising future contracts: Implementing updated standards for road widths in future contracts to reflect the realities of traffic flow in residential areas.
I recognize the complexity of managing multiple infrastructural projects across the country, and applaud the Ministry’s efforts to improve transportation networks. However, I believe addressing these issues now would save the Government from higher maintenance
Street
costs later, and ensure the infrastructure meets the growing demands of our developing nation. As this matter concerns not only my neighbourhood, but also taxpayers more broadly, I have shared this letter with the press to bring public attention to the importance of well-considered infrastructure planning. I am confident this would further support the Ministry’s efforts to prioritize transparency and efficiency.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I trust your esteemed office would give this matter due attention and implement the necessary adjustments. I would be happy to provide further details, or engage in discussions to ensure a satisfactory resolution.
Yours respectfully, Russel Lancaster
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Phillips and Attorney General Anil Nandlall represented the Government in bidding farewell to India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his delegation on Thursday evening after his three-day visit to Guyana. Before his departure, Prime Minister Modi joined Prime Minister Phillips on the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) tarmac for a general salute by a contingent of soldiers
Desperation has set in
Dear Editor,
The PNC and its defunct associates are in a desperation mode, trying every which way to thwart the established democratic system in Guyana. This is as a direct result of them being locked out from manipulating the system, and for a system which they cannot “control.”
This is vitally important when they view their position of suffering a great loss in the upcoming general elections; it is a very punishing place to be, and is the root cause of their desperation.
At this stage, they are looking around for a chink in the armour of the electoral machinery, where they may hammer out a host of confusing measures. That will not happen, because systems are in place to avoid such
confusion; which means that their situation becomes more dire by the day.
You are talking about their crazy suggestions of the use of biometrics to a supposedly “clean voters list,” to the point where Norton is advocating the blocking of persons who are legally entitled to vote. All of these illegal acts have been outlawed. As the door shuts on them, this feeling of hopelessness and despair becomes a reality.
In addition, the PPP/C is making great inroads in their strongholds, which means defeat is imminent!
The Opposition is flat-footed and in disarray. Trying to avert the natural course of democracy will not - I repeat: will not – work; only a free, fair, and transparent mechanism would prevail. Instead of resisting the
system, Opposition should be working assiduously to make Election 2025 a peaceful and fulfilling exercise, the sacred task of bringing Guyana back into the sisterhood of Caricom Nations, were democracy reigns supreme.
This is our watchword; this is what will be: the democratic rule holds sway, and is paramount to everything from henceforth. There will not be recurrence of a shameful five (5) months of waiting for the results of an election. There will not be repeat of a chief elections officer hiding the SOPs and publishing his own tally sheet of the election. Everything will be done within reasonable time. Long live the democratic rule!
Respectfully, Neil Adams
Regional collaboration and Guyana’s role as an agricultural leader
Dear Editor, Guyana has emerged as a pivotal agricultural leader in the Caribbean and South American regions, thanks to its fertile land, favourable climate, and strategic commitment to food security. This role is amplified by Guyana's collaboration with neighbouring countries, which has helped to strengthen the region’s agricultural capabilities and address pressing challenges like food insecurity, climate change, and economic instability.
With a vast expanse of arable land over 8 million hectares Guyana has substantial potential for agricultural expansion. Its key crops, including rice, sugar, and a variety of fruits and vegetables, are vital not
Collective, integrated approach...
Friday’s regional security symposium focused on moving the conversation from what crime and violence as a public health issue means to how to implement meaningful actions through the lens of public health.
Current Chair of CARICOM, Prime Minister of Grenada Dickon Mitchell, underscored the need for behavioural changes as part of crime-fighting efforts in the region.
“As with any other public health challenge, we need to change behaviours even as we put in place, the framework for crime prevention. So, today, we will interrogate the policy prescriptions for addressing the vulnerabilities within specific groups including women, youth and community – both as victims and as partners,” the Prime Minister noted.
He further stated, “We will strategise on strengthening the resilience created by positive family, educational and community involvement, and explore approaches to keeping our cultural expres-
sions as a tool for positive development while mitigating the opportunistic negative infringements to make this legacy one that is mired in deceit and violence.”
‘No safe harbour’ Meanwhile, as part of these efforts to tackle crime and curb the movement of criminals in the region, a draft legislation for the CARICOM Arrest Warrant Bill has been completed.
This is according to the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr Keith Rowley, who is the lead Head in CARICOM’s Qusai Cabinet for Security matters. He said several crucial pieces of model legislation have been developed since the first regional security symposium held in Trinidad last year to advance the commitments made by Member States to arrest the crime situation that has been plaguing the Caribbean.
“I have been advised… [of] the completion of the template legislation for the CARICOM Arrest Warrant Bill. I am particularly pleased
to hear that we are here. Our little criminal punks must now know that in every CARICOM territory, the law applies to them equally, as soon as we implement the laws, with respect to warrants for their restraint and apprehension in anticipation of successful prosecution. There are no safe harbours in any of our CARICOM territories… We would want to have that implemented as quickly as possible,” he stated.
Back in 2018, Guyana joined other CARICOM na-
FROM PAGE 3
tions when it ratified the CARICOM Arrest Warrant Treaty which allows Member States to arrest and hand over criminals to authorities in other participating countries where the crime was committed.
Additionally, Rowley also reported significant progress towards the completion of the Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record Bill – both of which provide the foundation for efficient cross-border cooperation in the region. (G-8)
only to local needs but to the broader Caribbean market. Leveraging these resources, Guyana has actively engaged in partnerships with organizations such as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to develop agricultural policies that benefit the entire region.
In fact, CARICOM has identified Guyana as a major hub for food production, aiming to reduce the region’s high dependence on imported food and strengthen local food systems.
A key component of this regional collaboration has been the “25 by 2025” initiative, which seeks to reduce CARICOM's food import bill by 25% by 2025. Guyana’s government has taken the lead in implementing this initiative, investing in modern farming technologies, supporting farmers, and improving infrastructure to enhance productivity. These measures not only increase food output but also create a resilient agricultural framework that can withstand climate-related disruptions
a growing concern for the Caribbean.
In addition to food production, Guyana is contributing to research and development in sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in areas like organic farming, water management, and climate-resilient crops. By sharing these practices with its regional neighbours, Guyana is setting a standard for agricultural innovation and cooperation in the Caribbean.
Guyana’s role as an agricultural leader extends beyond production; it is central to fostering a collaborative and sustainable agricultural ecosystem across the Caribbean. Through shared goals, investments in infrastructure, and a focus on resilience, Guyana is helping to drive regional food security and economic stability, positioning itself as a crucial partner in the Caribbean’s agricultural future.
Sincerely, Fawaz Harry
Page Foundation
Commutative and Associative Properties
Numbers behave in specific ways. Each kind of number behaviour is called a property
The Commutative Property of Addition: Addends may be added in any order without changing the sum. An addend is any number in an addition problem. It does not matter the order in which you add those numbers. The sum will always be the same.
The Commutative Property of Multiplication: Numbers may be multiplied in any order without changing the product.
The Associative Property of Addition: Addends may be grouped in any order without changing the sum.
The Associative Property of Multiplication: Numbers may be grouped in any order without changing the product.
Example: Find the answers to the following problems and tell which property they represent.
28 + 42 + 11 = ? 11 + 28 + 42 = ?
(Answers are 81 and 81 , examples of the commutative property)
26 x 3 x 4 = ? 4 x 26 x 3 = ?
(Answers are 312 and 312 , examples of the commutative property)
(12 +
(Answers are 39 and 39 , examples of the associative property) (4 x 5) x 7 = ? 4 x (5 x 7) = ?
(Answers are 140 and 140, examples of the associative property)
Exercises: Identify the property
By John Keats
Make A Glitter Jar
We all have times when we feel stressed, angry, upset, or otherwise overwhelmed. Sometimes children — just like adults — need a moment to calm themselves and gather their thoughts.
Slowing down and taking a deep breath can help you feel calmer. Once you are calm, you can focus on your goal or figure out a way to solve a problem. Other calm-down ideas include taking a walk, counting down from five, or closing your eyes for a few minutes. You might also try a visual sensory experience that encourages mindfulness, to help bring yourself back into the present moment. This simple activity is for you to make your very own mindfulness calm-down jar. As you watch the glitter settle, you can calm yourself and return to the present moment.
Materials
A clear plastic bottle or jar with lid (you choose how large it should be) Clear gel glue
Super glue (adult supervision required) Glitter Hot water (adult supervision required) Food colouring (optional)
Directions
1) Gather your supplies and remove the label from the plastic bottle or jar by soaking it in warm soapy water.
2) Fill the container about 3/4 with hot water — an adult can help here!
3) Add the gel glue to the container. The amount needed may vary depending on the size of the container.
4) Add glitter to the container. Different size glitter will fall at different speeds, so you may like to add a mixture of different types of fine and ultra-fine glitter that will settle at different rates. You can even add
larger glitter shapes like stars or sequins, if you have them.
5) When you’re happy with the amount of glitter, screw the lid on tightly and then shake until the water, glue and glitter are mixed.
6) Set the calm-down jar on a flat surface and watch the glitter settle at the bottom. Now is the time to fine-tune your glitter jar. Did the glitter settle fast or slow? Did you use enough glitter? Should you change anything? Do you want to add food colouring? If you want to make changes, add more clear gel glue to make the glitter settle slower or more water to make it settle faster. Make any changes and then super glue the cap onto the container to seal it shut. Let the glue dry.
Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun; Conspiring with him how to load and bless
With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eves run;
To bend with apples the moss’d cottage-trees,
And fill all fruit with ripeness to the core; To swell the gourd, and plump the hazel shells
With a sweet kernel; to set budding more,
And still more, later flowers for the bees, Until they think warm days will never cease,
For summer has o’er-brimm’d their clammy cells.
Who hath not seen thee oft amid thy store?
Sometimes whoever seeks abroad may find
Thee sitting careless on a granary floor, Thy hair soft-lifted by the winnowing wind;
Or on a half-reap’d furrow sound asleep, Drowsed with the fume of poppies, while thy hook
7) Once the glue is dry, you’re ready to add it to your tools and techniques for calming down and feeling mindful. To use it, shake the jar or bottle and watch the glitter settle. (Adapted from pbs.org) TO BE CONTINUED
WORD SEARCH:
No decision yet on use of biometrics at 2025 polls – GECOM Chair
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is yet to decide on the use of biometrics at next year’s polls even after a feasibility study was done months ago.
The People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Opposition has been demanding the introduction of digitalised biometrics as a precondition for voter registration and voting.
Consequently, GECOM approved the conduct of a feasibility study on the viability of introducing digital fingerprint capture and the use of biometrics in line with the opposition’s calls. The report from that study was shared with the GECOM Commissioners since August.
At a press conference on Friday, GECOM Chair, Ret’d Justice Claudette Singh, told reporters that despite the matter being brought up for discussion at two meetings last week, there has been no decision on the way forward.
She explained that the three Governmentnominated commissioners and the three opposition-nominated commissioners have differing positions on how to proceed. One side is pushing for there to be consultants with stakeholders before this new biometric system is introduced while the other is contending that GECOM must first take a position before any consultations.
This latter position, which the GECOM Chair – who has a tie-breaking vote on the seven-member Elections Commission – agrees with, requires the Commission to first discuss the findings of the feasibility study.
“They have not discussed it. It was there for about a week or two and they did not. They wanted biometrics all the time, they’re saying they want it and they just went around [to avoid discussing the study]. Right now, one set said let us put it first to the stakeholders but we said no, we must have a
position. Let us discuss it here. So, that is where we are now. At the next meeting, which hopefully would be Tuesday, I’m expecting them to discuss the study,” Justice Singh indicated.
According to the GECOM Chair, it is important for the Elections Commission to first discuss its position on the matter and determine critical issues such as its capability including financial resourc -
Lorry driver gets $500,000 for fatal Sherrif Street collision
Denzel Webb, a 28-year-old truck driver from Belfield, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was on Friday charged and granted bail for the death of Carlton Smartt who was struck down and killed at Sherrif Street earlier in the week.
Webb appeared before Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts and pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him. He is scheduled to return to court on December 6, 2024.
Webb’s attorney, George Thomas, argued that his client was not reckless but suffered a mechanical failure thus leading to the lorry’s brakes failing. However, the prosecution contended that there was no evidence to support this claim and noted that the high speed at
which Webb was allegedly driving contributed signifi-
cantly to the devastating accident.
The incident occurred on Tuesday last at the intersection of Sheriff and Dennis Streets in Georgetown, resulting in the death of 42-year-old Smartt, an electrical contractor from Newtown Kitty.
It was reported that at about 6:50hrs, Webb’s mo-
tor lorry, GAH 5183, reportedly ran a stop sign while travelling at a high speed. This action brought him into the path of another lorry, GAH 8008 also moving at a fast pace along Sheriff Street.
The collision caused both lorries to lose control, with Webb’s vehicle veering off course and fatally striking Smartt, who was jogging in the area at the time. The force of the impact trapped Smartt under the rear wheel of Webb’s lorry. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The chaos didn’t end there. The out-of-control lorries collided with six cars and caused significant damage, including one lorry crashing into a nearby building.
At the time none of the drivers was found to be under the influence of alcohol.
es to introduce as biometric system, if approved, before opening up the matter to any consultation. Otherwise, she contended that the electoral body could appear ill-prepared.
“That is why it is important for us to discuss it before we go to the stakeholders. We must have a position… It is important for GECOM to have an understanding of and a position on its capability to introduce the system before going to the stakeholders. Because the absence of such an understanding or position would lead to GECOM appearing unprepared, unformed and unable to properly address this highly sensitive matter,” Justice Singh added.
In Guyana there remained significant concern about the introduction and implementation of any voter stipulations that could possibly disenfranchise voters, and potentially lead to legal challenges reminiscent of the 1998 Elections Petition case brought by Esther Pereira. That case
resulted in the nullification of the 1997 elections due to constitutional violations.
In August, GECOM’s spokeswoman Yolanda Ward had said that in preparation for the 2025 General and Regional elections, GECOM is considering proposals for installing cameras in polling stations and a biometrics feasibility study to enhance safeguards against misconduct. Ward was at the time responding to the matter raised by the AFC regarding election safeguards.
AFC, which was previously part of the PNC-led Coalition that had attempted to rig the 2020 National and Regional election, has joined APNU in calling for biometrics such as fingerprints to be implemented by GECOM for the next elections.
However, GECOM had warned that they cannot make such a significant change to the electoral procedure unless there is legislation to back it up. Indeed, the addition of ID cards in the 1997 elections was one of the grounds on which the validity of the entire election was overturned in court and even that electoral change came from an act of parliament.
But even as the opposition intensified its demands for the introduction of digitalised biometrics, the General Secretary of the ruling PPP, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, rejected these proposals. At his party’s weekly press conference on Thursday, Jagdeo contended that the PPP will never support proposals that hinder the process and will not fall for the traps being set by the opposition to delay the holding of the 2025
elections.
“If you embark on this adventure that they want us to take, you will have delayed elections and that is precisely what they want,” the PPP GS stated.
In fact, Jagdeo, who serves as Vice President in the current PPP/C Administration, said that his Government is open to expanding the authority and responsibilities of Presiding Officers ahead of the 2025 elections to ensure greater transparency and accountability during the voting process.
“We are open to enhancing the powers of the presiding officers to ensure that only people who are eligible to vote, vote on election day. We’re open to ideas about that but everything has to be done in accordance with the laws of this country and the constitution of Guyana. We are not going to do anything unconstitutional,” the VP said on Thursday.
His position comes on the heels of the controversial remarks made by Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton, who during a recent public meeting in Calcutta, Mahaicony said that his party polling agents would not tolerate people with foreign accentsexcept English-speaking Venezuelans whose parents are Guyanese- turning up to vote.
GECOM has already issued a statement in response to Norton, stating that it is the Elections Commission, not any political party, that is constitutionally tasked with managing the elections and no party agents have any authority to determine who votes or not. (G-8)
Scene of the accident on Tuesday
Dead: Carlton Smartt
Charged: Denzel Webb
GECOM Chairwoman, Justice (ret'd) Claudette Singh
Customs officer charged with indecent exposure, disorderly conduct
Jamal Forde, a 36-year-old Customs Officer who resides at Providence, East Bank Demerara, was arraigned on Friday before Sparendaam Magistrate Abigail Gibbs on charges of exposing his genitals to a police officer, resisting arrest, and disorderly behaviour.
He pleaded not guilty as charged, and has been placed on bail as follows: for the charge of exposing his genitals (indecent exposure), he is on $60,000 bail;
Driver in fatal Water Street accident charged 7 months later
Seven months after a fatal accident along Water Street, Georgetown, Michael Hopkinson, 45, of Coverden, East Bank Demerara (ECD) was indicted on causing death by dangerous driving charge.
He appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday where the charge was read to him which stated that he dangerously drove a motor vehicle thereby causing the death of 63-year-old pedestrian Doreen Haynes.
Standing before Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty, Hopkinson pleaded not guilty to the charge and was thereafter granted $300,000 bail. He is required to make another court appearance on February 7, 2025.
It was reported that Hopkinson was driving an unregistered vehicle south along Water Street when
he attempted to overtake a stationary motor lorry. In the process, the rear left portion of the vehicle struck Haynes, who was conversing with the driver of the parked lorry.
The impact squeezed Haynes between the two vehicles, causing her to fall onto the road. She was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where she later succumbed.
for the charge of resisting arrest, he is on $50,000 bail; and for the charge of disorderly behaviour, he is on $50,000 bail. His next court appearance is set for December 12, 2024.
According to reports, Forde’s arrest followed an altercation at the Sparendaam Police
Station, during which he allegedly exposed his genitals to a police constable, leading to the primary charge under the Sexual Offences Act. The situation reportedly escalated when Forde resisted arrest and engaged in disorderly behaviour, precipitating the additional charges.
Murder suspect escapes from custody days after arrest
Murder suspect Carlton Courtland Jones has escaped from lawful custody just days after being arrested following a confrontation with police.
Now again on the run, the 28-year-old resident of Aranaputa Valley in North Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), is wanted for the 2022 murder of Aeriey Matthews, but had been evading the authorities.
Arrested on Wednesday with his alleged accomplice Rickford King, during a police operation conducted along the Lethem/ Kurupukari Trail near Pirara Village, he was in detention at the Lethem Police Station when he escaped from lawful custody.
The police have said that, acting on a tip-off, ranks had confronted Jones and King as they travelled on a motorcycle, and when they instructed them to stop, the men had disobeyed the instruction; but they eventually lost control of the bike and it crashed. Armed with choppers, these two men then attacked the police, and an inspector had sustained injuries.
Police then discharged
several warning shots before subduing and arresting both men. They were transported to the Lethem Regional Hospital for treatment of minor injuries they had sustained, and were reportedly in stable condition at the time.
Details surrounding Jones’s escape from the Lethem Police Station remain unclear, but the GPF on Friday issued a wanted bulletin for him, whom they describe as dangerous.
Police are urging anyone with information about Jones’s whereabouts to contact them immediately on telephone numbers 2271149, 225-8196, 227-1611, 268-2328, 333-3876, 911, or at the nearest police station.
Au revoir…
…to Modi
He came, he saw, and he conquered!! Guyanese have witnessed “Modi Mania” up close, and can now begin to appreciate the phenomenon that has unfolded over India in the last decade. Modi was a man for all seasons, as he went directly from his ceremonial welcome at CJIA - after meeting the G20 boys in Brazil - to a post-midnight citizens’ bash at the Marriott!! And then into two days of non-stop frenzied activities.
To your Eyewitness, the highlight was the Big Man’s address to Parliament – which is being convened nowadays at the Convention Center. Maybe if it were at the Public Buildings, he could’ve checked out the ceremonial chair that was donated by India at Independence!!
As the leader of a country that shares a common history of colonial rule by the British - but has now clawed its way almost to the top of the international food chain - Modi gave a masterclass speech on global politics in the modern world. Referring to present geopolitical tensions, Modi didn’t just describe those tensions, but advised that it’s time to identify the conditions leading to conflicts - and how to remove them. Your Eyewitness hopes that politicians present on both sides of the House were taking notes!!
“Today, there are so many challenges: like terrorism, drugs, and cybercrime, that only by fighting them we will be able to shape the future of our coming generations. And this is possible only when we give centre stage to democracy first; humanity first. India has always spoken based on principles, trust and transparency!!” And there’s a slogan right there to summarize India’s path in the world, which we can follow: Democracy First!! Your Eyewitness hopes that members of the Opposition were listening, and that whatever thoughts they might have about sabotaging the coming 2025 elections are now gonna be thrown into the dustbins!!
On the “Humanity First” front, Modi opined: “If even one country, even one region, is left behind, then our global goals will never be achieved. That’s why India says, ‘Every nation matters.’ “!! Summarizing India’s millennialong foreign policy approach, Modi noted that India has never practised selfishness. “We have never moved forward with the feeling of expansionism. We have always stayed away from the feeling of occupying resources, grabbing resources”!!
As if speaking directly to the bully next door, who craves the occupation of our Essequibo, Modi declared: “I believe, be it space or sea, these should not be subjects of universal conflict, but cooperation. This is not the time for conflict for the world, either.”
Giving a perspective on India’s role in multipolar groups, Modi highlighted India’s priority as ensuring the welfare of the developing nations.
A united voice of the Global South is crucial, he declared!
…to Mad Maduro?
Last Monday, a very important bill - of great significance to us - was passed by the US House of Representatives with bipartisan support from both Republican and Democratic legislators. But, somehow, it wasn’t even reported locally; they were preoccupied with the raving and ranting of an Opposition that was projecting its compulsion for election rigging onto the Government!! Taking their doody and rubbing it on the Govt’s bambsie, so to (disgustingly) speak!!
The Bill was introduced by Mike Waltz (R-FL) and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), and will now be moved to the US Senate. Its name?? The “Banning Operations and Leases with the Illegitimate Venezuelan Authoritarian Regime (BOLIVAR) Act”!!
That’s right – the BOLIVAR Act!! The name alone caused conniptions to Mad Maduro’s illegal Venezuelan government!! Waltz was picked as a national security advisor for the incoming Trump Administration, and he declared explicitly: the bill “sends a powerful message to Maduro that there will be no appeasement”!!
Venezuelan National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez called the BOLIVAR Act a “monstrosity”!!
…to reckless drivers??
Pres Ali just outlined his zero-tolerance policy on one of the causes of the mayhem on our roadways – careless drivers. Henceforth, he instructed, regulations must prescribe that after 3 convictions, errant drivers will LOSE their licences!!
Jamal Forde
Dead: Doreen Haynes
Fugitive: Carlton Courtland Jones
“I make my own decisions” – GECOM Chair on
accusations of her
– says will resign when she is ready
Chair of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), retired Justice Claudette Singh, has rubbished claims that she has been using her tie-breaking vote at the seven-member Commission to favour the Peoples Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government’s nominated Commissioners.
“Let me just say, there are three commissioners on each side. I have the casting voting… from the legislation. So, what do I do when they are tied? I have to cast the [tie-breaking] vote. I make up my own decision, it’s not that I’m voting with the PPP,” Justice Singh told report-
ers at a press conference on Friday.
The People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Opposition, which has three seats on the Elections Commission while the PPP has the other three, has been critical of the GECOM Chair, accusing her of being biased and always siding with the PPP Government's nominated commissioners.
In fact, the Opposition has been regularly staging protests outside of GECOM on Tuesdays – the day that the Elections Commission have its weekly meeting – calling
for the Chairwoman to resign.
However, Justice Singh declared that while persons have a democratic right to protest, she will determine when is the right time for her to step down. “Well, I don’t know about resigning. When I want to resign, I will resign,” the GECOM Chair posited during Friday’s press conference.
Following recent appointments to fill key senior positions at GECOM, the PNC/ APNU Opposition issued a statement earlier this month, accusing Justice Singh of abandoning her constitutional responsibilities and reit-
siding with PPP
erating calls for her to step down from the post.
“The recent appointments by GECOM of a Civic and Voter Education Manager and a Logistics Manager provide further evidence that Chairperson Claudette Singh remains a pawn of the PPP and has discarded all traces of self-respect, shame, and any willingness to fulfil her constitutional duty to the people of Guyana. These two positions were filled by persons who possess inferior qualifications and relevant experience compared to other applicants who were nevertheless rejected by the GECOM Chair acting in concert with the three PPPnominated commissioners,” the opposition party stated in the missive.
In response to these allegations, Justice Singh went through the list of new appointees detailing her reasons for selecting not just those persons for the positions within the Elections Commission but other senior officials as well including the current Chief Elections Officer, Vishnu Persaud, and Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Aneal Giddings.
Only last week, the General Secretary of the ruling PPP/C, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, had defended the GECOM Chair against the
Opposition's accusations, which he says borders on attempts to bully Justice Singh.
“It's not about supporting the PPP or APNU, it’s about what is right and what is constitutional. [Justice Singh] will follow the law; that’s how she is. She has done this all the time. And [now, they’re] trying to bully her like at the protest to get her out because you want in there, another Patterson… [who] agreed to do somethings unconstitutional… and then he had to be removed…,” Jagdeo noted.
The PPP General praised the GECOM Chair for remaining steadfast in not just upholding her constitutional duties but, more importantly, the integrity of the electoral process.
“You think Claudette Singh, as a respected former judge in this country, after the Chief Justice has ruled that you can’t remove people from the [voters] list and that is it constitutional, will go and remove people’s name from the list, or try through biometrics to disenfranchise them again?... You think she would act in an unconstitutional manner, she will not… Claudette Singh is voting for clean elections now and is standing up to any attempts to violate the law,” he added.
Moreover, Jagdeo had pointed to Justice Singh’s 2001 ruling as a High Court judge to vitiate the 1997 elections results, which terminated the PPP’s term in office. He reminded that PPP accepted that decision and did not accuse the judge of siding with the PNC at the time.
“It was Claudette Singh who ruled [the election] was unconstitutional and cut short the PPP’s term… They didn’t say [anything] about Claudette Singh at that time or we didn’t say that [she] was voting with [PNC] or she was a pro-PNC judge. We accepted the court ruling. We lost some period in Government and we went back to elections,” the PPP General Secretary recalled. (G-8)
Members of the PNC-led APNU Opposition protesting outside GECOM
GECOM Chair Justice
(ret’d) Claudette Singh
Govt distributes 400 more house lots in Linden
Just over a week after the Government had allocated over 600 house lots to residents of Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), another 400 lots have been distributed in the region, marking the second phase of the Dream Realised initiative aimed at addressing the housing backlog in that region.
This second allocation was in regard to the Conception Fitz Hope housing development, and the exercise, led by the Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Sherwyn Greaves, was done on Friday in the compound of Watooka House.
During the event, Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal highlighted efforts the Government has made to reduce the region’s backlog of 3,500 housing ap-
plications. Noting that the Ministry has allocated approximately 1,500 residential lots in the region over
land, emphasizing the importance of following proper procedures and applying through the relevant agen-
the past four years, Croal also addressed concerns regarding land use and unauthorized occupation of
cies, even as he reiterated the Government’s commitment to addressing issues of squatting in the region.
Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, has expressed satisfaction
Conception Fitz Hope. We have infrastructure work ongoing in the area, including in Amelia’s Ward Phase
with the pace of progress in the ongoing land allocation exercise. She said, “Today, we are allocating 400 lots in
4 and areas that we have regularised. All of these will be ready in the new year.” Emphasising
Government’s commitment to promoting home ownership, and speaking in relation to the value of these subsidized lots, Minister Rodrigues encouraged beneficiaries to recognize the long-term benefits of owning property, including opportunities for wealth generation and inheritance.
Two Fridays ago, some 600 house lots were allocated to the first set of residents at the New Wismar Housing Development at an event held at the Christianburg Community Centre Ground. The Government had promised that the new lots would include essential amenities, such as road access, electricity, and water services, to ensure they are ready for occupancy upon completion. Government has been keen on promoting sustainable housing development across the country by using eco-friendly construction
Two residents pulling the respective numbers to their lots
Residents being attended to by staff of the CH&PA
“Our commonalities provide a strong foundation for our friendship” – PM
Modi
tells
– lauds Guyanese leadership in strengthening bilateral relations
As opportunities within India burst forth far and beyond, each person stationed in India and Guyana can play a bigger role in connecting the two countries.
Those were the remarks of Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi at the diaspora engagement at the National Cultural Centre where he focused on cultural and economic relations between the nations. He pointed out the numerous similarities of the two nations which can fos-
ter an easy connection.
“We have a shared history that binds us together: a common struggle against colonial rule, love for democratic values, and respect for diversity. We have a shared future that we want to create. Today, when India is a land of opportunities, each one of you can play a bigger role in connecting our two countries. I call upon you to participate. Also, encourage your friends from Guyana. It will be a good opportunity to understand India, its values, culture, and diversity.”
Despite being an ocean apart, Modi drew a clear linkage between Guyana and India, stating that the cultural connection with Mother India is strong.
“I see diversity as something to be celebrated, not just tolerated. Our countries are showing how cultural diversity is our strength.”
Many such IndoGuyanese have made an impact on academics, arts, music, and medicine.
“Friends, our commonalities provide a strong foundation for our friendship. Three things in particular connect India and Guyana deeply: culture, cuisine, and cricket.”
“The love for cricket also binds our nations strongly. It is not just a sport; it is a way of life deeply embedded in our national identity. Some of these great cricketers are here with us today. Many of our cricket fans enjoyed the T20 World Cup that you hosted this year. Your cheers for the matches in Guyana could be heard even back home in India.”
More than 20 years ago when he was not serving in office as the Prime Minister. Modi had visited Guyana. On this note, he made it clear that Guyana has significantly changed in com-
diaspora
parison to what he would have witnessed before.
“I have great memories of visiting your wonderful country over two decades ago. At that time, I had no official position. I came to Guyana as a traveller, full of curiosity. Now, I have returned to this land of many waters as the Prime Minister of India. A lot of things have changed between then and now. But the love and affection of my Guyanese brothers and sisters remain the same. My experience has reaffirmed
that.”
Remaining anchored in the belief that you can take an Indian out of India, but you cannot take India out of an Indian. “Sir Cheddi Jagan used to say, ‘It matters not what a person is born, but who they choose to be.’ He also lived this verse.
The son of a family of labourers, he went on to become a leader of global stature.”
“We continue to call for dialogue and diplomacy to address global crises. Friends, I always call our di-
aspora the (ambassadors of Indian culture and values). It is said that nothing can compare with the comfort of the mother’s land. You, the Indo-Guyanese community, are doubly blessed. You have Guyana as your motherland and Bharat Mata as your ancestral land.”
The Indian Prime Minister also lauded the leadership of the country for their remarkable work to strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations and across many areas.
President Dr Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeting each other at the engagement
A section of the gathering at the NCC on Thursday evening
Guyanese wins prestigious Lambeth Cross for outstanding service
Sheran Harper, A.A., has been awarded the Cross of St Augustine for Services to the Anglican Communion, in recognition of her exceptional contributions over more than 20 years. The announcement was made on Friday by Lambeth in the United Kingdom.
The Cross of St Augustine is awarded to members of the Anglican Communion who have made significant contributions to the life of the worldwide Communion, or to a particular autonomous
church within Anglicanism.
As a volunteer leader within the Mothers’ Union, Harper has played a transformative role therein: rising to serve as its Worldwide President, and representing the Archbishop of Canterbury on the World Council of Religions for Peace.
Her work has focused on fostering peace and reconciliation, and combating poverty, violence and injustice globally; and her influence extends beyond her Guyanese roots, where
she has contributed to her local church and served on the National Commission for the Family (2012–2015).
She has travelled to over 20 countries promoting parenting and economic empowerment, and spearheading key initiatives such as MULOA (Mothers’ Union Listens, Observes, and Acts).
Her leadership during the pandemic enabled the Mothers’ Union to embrace digital connectivity, thereby enhancing global collaboration; and she has used her presidency to guide the creation of a strategic plan aimed at addressing societal challenges up to 2026.
Harper’s dedication was further showcased during her keynote speech at the 2022 Lambeth Conference addressing peace and recon-
ciliation, marking her as an influential voice within the Anglican Communion.
Sheran Harper, a member of St Sidwell’s Anglican Church, is the wife of Guyanese cricket legend Roger Harper, and is recipient of Guyana’s Golden Arrow of Achievement (AA). In 2018, she defied tradition when she became the first non-British resident to be elected as the Worldwide President of the 142-year-old Mothers’ Union (MU), which has over four million members in 84 countries across the globe.
Sheran Harper studied at the University of the West Indies School of Physical Therapy. She undertook her Clinical Practice at Guy’s Hospital in London, and then worked with the Health
Ministry in Guyana, where she opened and managed new physiotherapy departments in hospitals throughout the country, and lectured on the Rehabilitation Therapists Programme. She stopped working in secular jobs in order to focus on her calling of serving the MU. She has served as a volunteer at all levels: from parish to diocese and to province, and is currently a Worldwide Trustee. She was also the Worldwide Parenting Trainer where she rolled out Mothers’ Union Parenting programmes in 23 countries across the globe. Her expertise is often called upon, and she has been a spokesperson in her region for Mothers’ Union on various inter-faith and international panels and forums.
Sheran Harper, A.A
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and other Government ministers and officials bade farewell to Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the Republic of India and his delegation after his three-day visit on Thursday evening
114 students graduate from CSHE as institution observes 92nd anniversary
The Carnegie School of Home Economics (CSHE) commemorated 92 years of excellence in education and training with the graduation of 114 students at its annual ceremony on Thursday.
Held under the theme “Shaping Generations with Creativity and Skills: 92 Years of Transformation in Education and Training,” the event celebrated the institution’s legacy and its graduates’ promising futures.
This year’s cohort showcased the diversity and depth of CSHE’s programmes, with certificates
and diplomas awarded in Household Management, Garment Making Level 1, Interior Decoration, General Cosmetology, Commercial Food Preparation Level 1 and Catering and Hospitality.
The graduates included 13 recipients of the Public Service Ministry (PSM) Scholarship, as well as representatives from key national institutions, including seven from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), four from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), and two from the Guyana Prison Service (GPS).
Principal of CSHE, Dr
Sharmaine Marshall highlighted the institution’s commitment to preparing students for the workforce and entrepreneurial ventures, emphasising the importance of industry relationships.
“The CSHE uses the occupational standard as the curriculum for training in various occupational areas, intending to produce skilled persons ready for industry jobs, or as entrepreneurs or business owners. CSHE recognises the importance of and prioritises building relationships and partnerships with industries for our students’ success. As
such, our institution enjoys good relationships with many of our partners in the hospitality, garment, and cosmetology industry. All of our full-time students were accommodated on work attachment or internship, after which, in many instances, our students are hired.”
Delivering the feature address, the Director of the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD), Oma Ramdin praised CSHE’s vital role in advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Guyana:
“In the Ministry of Education, we tell Dr Tularam that he trades on his tagline, ‘Skill is Wealth,’ and ‘TVET is on the move.’ Indeed, TVET is definitely on the move and moving rapidly, and I’m very happy that you’re part of that movement. Learn that challenges will strengthen you, but you have to resolve personally that you’ll be the best at what you do, regardless of the situation. When people see and experience quality, they are going to follow you wherever you go. This qualification gives you independence and an avenue to do better for yourself and the people around you.”
TVET, a cornerstone of the Education Ministry’s development strategy, is designed to equip individuals with practical skills to meet local and global workforce demands. Through programmes like those offered by CSHE, students gain not only technical expertise but also the confidence to pursue careers or launch their own businesses.
Founded in 1933, the Carnegie School of Home Economics is Guyana’s premier institution for technical and vocational education, offering programmes in hospitality, garment construction, interior design, and cosmetology. Over its
92 years, the school has continually evolved to address industry trends and national development needs, producing generations of skilled professionals and entrepreneurs.
As CSHE celebrates 92 years of transformation, the institution remains steadfast in its mission to empower individuals with creativity and skills, shaping not only their futures but also contributing to Guyana’s socio-economic development.
The ceremony served as a reminder of CSHE’s enduring impact and its graduates’ potential to excel in their respective fields.
Hydroponic kitchen garden launched at Queen’s College
The Queen’s College
Hydroponic kitchen garden system was officially launched on Friday marking a significant step forward in promoting environmental sustainability and hands-on agricultural education in Guyana.
The project emerged from the ExxonMobil Guyana-sponsored SHOUT National Secondary School Environmental Speech Competition, an initiative by Recover Guyana in collaboration with the Education Ministry.
The Hydroponic Kitchen Garden System is part of a broader initiative aligned with Sustainable
Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. The system introduces innovative farming practices that reduce the environmental footprint of traditional agriculture while providing fresh, nutrient-dense produce to supplement school meals. Additionally, the project offers students practical exposure to Agriculture Science, fostering awareness and skills for sustainable living.
ExxonMobil Guyana’s Public and Government Affairs Manager Matthew Scharf emphasised the company’s commitment to empowering young people and
advancing sustainability through collaborative initiatives.
“We are happy to support this creative, student-led project. Hydroponic gardens are an exciting way to teach students more about sustainability and inspire them to take care of the environment,” Scharf said.
President of Recover Guyana, Dr Dave Lalltoo expressed pride in the project’s potential to impact the school community. “Recover Guyana is thrilled to champion this initiative, which highlights the power of youth-driven solutions for a sustainable future. This project is more than a garden;
it is a testament to how education and sustainability can be harmonised to create meaningful change. By providing practical skills, fresh produce, and environmental benefits, the Hydroponic Kitchen Garden System represents a new model for schools and communities.”
In addition, the 2024 Guyana Youth Environmental Speaker and leader of the project, Gabriella Arjun shared her perspective on its impact.
“This initiative is a dream realised for me as an advocate for sustainability and youth leadership. The Hydroponic Kitchen Garden System not only provides fresh produce for the school community but also serves as a tool for education and environmental protection. It is
a privilege to contribute to a project that reflects the values of sustainability, health, and innovation.”
SHOUT seeks to educate and encourage youths to act as catalysts for environmental protection, providing a platform for young leaders to implement impactful projects. The competition identifies Guyana’s Youth Environmental Speaker annually and awards a grant to the winning school for a sustainable project.
Last year’s winning project at Queen’s College, spearheaded by Vasanna Persaud, the 2023 Guyana Youth Environmental Speaker, successfully installed a water purification system. This initiative has saved over 21,000 plastic bottles from entering landfills by transforming
tap water into a clean, sustainable source of hydration through a refill station.
The project continues to promote health, well-being, and a reduction in single-use plastic waste. This project has now been extended to West Demerara Secondary School with the support of the Greater Guyana Initiative.
The Queen’s College Hydroponic Kitchen Garden System builds on the foundation of these impactful efforts, demonstrating the power of education, innovation, and sustainability in shaping Guyana’s future.
Recover Guyana is a registered non-profit organisation with a mission to help vulnerable communities and families build sustainable opportunities for a better future.
Oma Ramdin, Director of NCERD, delivering remarks
Some of the graduates on Thursday
Mathew Scharf and Gabriella Arjun, the 2024 Guyana Youth Environmental Speaker, reaping the first lettuce from the Hydroponics Garden while others look on
Gabriella Arjun, the 2024 Guyana Youth Environmental Speaker, unveiling the signboard of the Queen’s College Hydroponic Kitchen Garden System in the presence of key stakeholders, thus marking a significant step towards a sustainable future in education and agriculture
Govt awards $1.1B in contracts for road work in Kwakwani
As the Government moves to upgrade infrastructure across the country, particularly in the hinterland and riverine communities, the Public Works Ministry on Friday awarded some $1.16 billion in contracts to upgrade several thoroughfares within the village of Kwakwani, Region 10 (Upper DemeraUpper Berbice).
The signing was done in the presence of Prime Minister Mark Phillips and Public Works Minister Juan Edghill during a public meeting with residents of the community.
There, Edghill highlighted that several contracts will be signed for the construction of 16 concrete roads within the community. He also revealed that the Ministry will begin the bidding process for an additional 21 asphaltic roads. According to the Minister, the work represents a $1.1 billion investment.
“Our procurement team will be signing here in Kwakwani 16 contracts, outside of these 16 contracts, we are also launching the bids for a number of asphaltic and concrete roads.”
Moreover, Edghill revealed that industrial sites will be established within and near the village, to make access to building
materials more convenient for the contractors.
“We've been able to have an agreement with someone who has a mobile asphalt plant… he could set up the plant, mix the asphalt and then the contractors will be able to collect it.” He added that a mobile concrete plant will also be established at a nearby village to source contractors with ready mixed concrete.
“When we leave here, we'll be going to Ituni and we will establish the mobile concrete plant and the persons who will be doing the concrete roads here will bring concrete from Ituni to Kwakwani… as I understand it, there are people in Kwakwani who have the concrete trucks and who could actually bring
the Ministry will find an alternative contractor to begin works on the Kwakwani waterfront road which was awarded to Jemcorp Engineering and Imports to the tune of $225 million back in June.
“I want to apologise because we awarded a contract for the Kwakwani waterfront road To Jemcorp. The councillor reached out to me and indicated that nothing is happening… well I want to tell you today if nothing is happening, we're not going to give
the concrete. In an hour it's here as against bringing it from further down.”
Additionally, Minister Edghill told residents that
people contracts and money for them to sit and play and cannot deliver to the people.”
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mark Phillips revealed that the construction of these thoroughfares will not only improve the
living environment for residents but will also help bolster tourism within the village.
“The road system here, you know if you get improvement in the road system that has a multiplier effect Just like how years ago, we invested in ensuring you have stable electricity. stable electricity in any community has a multiplier effect If you got good roads, it means people will feel more encouraged to visit your community.”
Just recently a total of $7.3 billion was allocated to build more than 160 roads in communities across Linden, Region Ten (Upper Demerara- Berbice), and more than 100 more will be built in Mackenzie and Wismar.
Sophisticated technology, skilled workforce needed for Guyana to transition from fossil fuels – Anirude Khelawan
– says diaspora can contribute in developing these fields
Members of the Guyanese diaspora possess vast levels of expertise from studying and working abroad, and Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at the University of Guyana, Anirude Khelawan, has revealed that the diaspora is currently working with local stakeholders to address energy-related issues.
During a virtual panel discussion focusing on how the Guyanese diaspora can contribute to this country’s development, an event hosted by the International Centre for Migration and Diaspora Studies of the University of Guyana, Khelawan made the foregoing disclosure.
This panel discussion featured several outstanding professors and lecturers who are of Guyanese descent, and Khelawan, who extensively studied energy systems and power generation in Canada, highlighted that
the province of Ontario generates some 25,000 megawatts of power to meet its energy needs. This is a significant amount of power when compared with Guyana’s own generation, and Khelawan added that most of this energy is emissions-free.
“The energy contribution in Ontario, for example, about 25% of it is hydro; about 55% of it: 50%-55%, is nuclear, coming from fos-
sil fuel, coming from uranium as fuel; the remaining 25%, which is (from) solar, wind, and some natural gas, contributes to another 25% in terms of the energy mix. This energy mix in Ontario is significantly emissions-free,” Khelawan has posited. He highlighted that, as a result of climate change, countries are now exploring alternative energy sources that are emissions-free.
More than 90 per cent of Guyana’s energy is currently generated by using heavy fuel. Accordingly, Khelawan noted, Guyana is currently pursuing renewable energy alternatives which would significantly reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. Hydro power is one such alternative, he explained.
“Because of climate change, there is an aggressive global transformation on the way to shift (the emphasis) towards cleaner fuels. We are not there yet in Guyana…about 97-
98% of our source of energy in Guyana is still petroleum. However, Guyana is on the cusp of transitioning from heavy fuel oil to much cleaner natural gas, and hydro is also on the radar with tremendous potential in Guyana. Renewable energy is gaining traction, the energy mix in Guyana will be transformed sooner rather than later,” Khelawan has posited.
However, he noted that renewable energy sources require sophisticated technology for power generation, and skilled technical personnel to operate them, but because of the nascent nature of the renewable energy sector in Guyana, there is a notable lack of skilled personnel to engage in these fields.
Nevertheless, he noted that the diaspora can contribute to the development of Guyanese personnel in these fields.
“So, lots of opportunities for technology, for innovation in Guyana…,” he
declared. “They will excel anywhere in the world. We need to build technical capacity in-house. We need to shift the perspective in the past…,” he declared. “We have a lot of technical experience in the diaspora, so I bring professional engineering and foreign industry experience to academia. As a lecturer, I teach and mentor students in mechanical en-
gineering and petroleum engineering, much-needed capacity-building in Guyana at present,” he said. Khelawan revealed that his UG students have already begun working on innovative projects, one of which is the use of biofuel for power generation, and another is examining the process of solar heating and energy storage.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill
Kwakwani residents signing road contracts
Prime Minister Mark Phillips
Anirude Khelawan, Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at the University of Guyana
Starlink must pay taxes if licensed to operate in Guyana – Jagdeo
General Secretary (GS) for the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, stated that Starlink must pay taxes if it is granted a licence to provide internet services in Guyana.
Discussions regarding the potential licensing of Starlink remain in the early phase as the Government evaluates an agreement with the company’s owner, Elon Musk.
“I know that Starlink is seeking a license in Guyana to provide internet services. That is being actively considered by the Government of Guyana” Dr Jagdeo said during a press
conference at Freedom House on Thursday.
While acknowledging the ongoing discussions with Starlink, GS Jagdeo emphasised the importance of the company being fully licensed and adhering to all tax laws. He further noted that some people are illegally bypassing tax requirements by personally importing equipment and providing internet.
GS stated that “currently, many people are bringing in the dishes themselves, installing them, and avoiding taxes, which is unfair to the other companies providing similar services”
According to Section 5 subsection 2 of Guyana’s Corporation Tax Act, if a
non-resident company conducts trade or business in Guyana, all profits made in
Guyana are chargeable to corporation tax.
Dr Jagdeo’s statements follow recent discussions between President Dr Mohamed Irfaan
Ali and billionaire Tech mogul Elon Musk. During those talks, Musk expressed his intentions to invest in Guyana's technological sector, as it provides a gateway to economic enhancement through digitisation and modernisation.
The Government is actively exploring numerous pathways to further develop Guyana’s profitable and rapidly expanding tech sector while ensuring prosperity for Guyana’s economy.
Notable efforts include the plan for an e-school model and progress in developing an electronic patient management record system.
Social worker conferred with EU’s Human Rights Award
Maureen Hope, a social worker from Crane Village, West Coast Demerara (WCD), has been honoured with the 2024 Delegation of the European Union (EU) in Guyana Human Rights Award in recognition of her remarkable 35 years of dedication to community development.
This award is in line with the EU’s commitment to recognising individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the promotion and protection of human rights. The EU Delegation in Guyana has honoured Maureen for her tireless work.
Through her involvement with the youth-based NonGovernmental Organisation (NGO), Youths with a Purpose, she has played a pivotal role in addressing social issues and empowering local youth.
During the award ceremony on Thursday evening, the EU Ambassador to Guyana, René Van Nes highlighted the importance of acknowledging individuals such as Hope for
EU Ambassador René van Nes presenting Maureen Hope with the award
their significant contributions.
“Be mindful of those people who devote their lives to making sure that this world is a better place and expect absolutely nothing in return. So we’re very happy to shine a limelight on you, to give you a bit of attention. Maureen has been instrumental in addressing social issues, empowering youths, working with women, and she does that with her organisation called Youths with a Purpose,” he stated.
Further, the Ambassador related that they would have indirectly supported the NGO through ChildLink.
“She has made sure that young women can actually earn their own living. So, very happy to award you, Maureen, the EU Human Rights Award. We give this award each year to people who do fantastic work and do not immediately get the recognition they deserve.”
In accepting the award,
Hope, who embodies her surname ‘Hope,’ expressed her initial plans for her NGO, for which she used her own money to fund.
She related that most of her funds were expended with the hope that she could touch the lives of the children.
“My husband used to say, ‘You’re giving away all the money, and we ain’t got any here.’ But I remember my days, and nobody was there to help us either, because everybody at that time, I think, was poor too, where we came from.”
“The whole thing of Youths with a Purpose started from the Sunday school…We were working with the children in the communities. And so, I
would go and work with these children, and these children began to share their stories. We began to work with them and mentor them, and there was great behaviour change.”
She also highlighted the lasting relationships she has built over the years through her extensive work with various organisations.
“My focus now is to build Youths with a Purpose and put it out there. I want to focus now on this organisation. I have worked with so many people that every corner I turn, people know me—the police know me, the teachers know me, the nurses know me. Every place I turn, because I have been working in every community in Region
Three, I’ve worked with everybody.”
However, she expressed gratitude for the award.
“I want to say thanks. I don’t know who recommended me, but I know that it’s because of the work I’ve been doing, and so today I’ve been standing here. I have so much I want to say, but I’m so overwhelmed that I just want to say thanks.”
Since 2017, the EU Delegation to Guyana has annually presented the Human Rights Award to recognise and honour individuals or organisations who have made significant contributions to the promotion and protection of human rights within the country.
Bartica pensioner gets bail on gun, ammo possession
Frederick Singh, 71, a farmer from Agatash Village, Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), who was arrested on Thursday following the discovery of several shotguns and ammunition, was granted bail on Friday.
Singh appeared at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Teriq Mohammed and pleaded not guilty to the charges which stated that on November 21, 2024, at Agatash, he had three shotguns and several rounds of ammunition in his possession.
He was subsequently granted $210,000 bail$150,000 for the Possession of Firearm and $60,000 for the
Possession of Ammunition. He will make his next court appearance on December 13, 2024.
It was reported that on the day in question, Police received information that Heimraj James who was wanted for the murder of Perry Budram which took place at Granny Landing, Omai Backdam back in October 2023 was hiding out at Singh’s residence.
As such, a team of police ranks from Bartica Police Station travelled to the location where the wanted man was arrested. However, the ranks searched Singh's home and its surroundings where one 16-gauge shotgun and two 12-gauge shotguns along with six 12-gauge cartridges were discovered.
Singh admitted ownership of the firearm and ammunition claiming they were being used for hunting purposes. He was cautioned and arrested.
Elon Musk
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
Charged: Frederick Singh
The gun and ammo that were found at Singh’s premises
Gov’t invites proposals for human rights projects
In commemoration of International Human Rights Day 2024, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance has called for proposals for small, impactful human rights projects.
The request for proposals was posted on Thursday and is open to individuals and organisations in Guyana with experience working with the proposed target groups.
The Ministry explained that the initiative aims to strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights for vulnerable groups while empowering young community groups and individuals to play key roles in the advancement of human rights.
Proposals should be aligned with the theme of human rights, and target vulnerable communities in Guyana such as persons with disabilities, women, Amerindians, children, youth and the LGBTQI+ community.
These projects can include sensitisation sessions,
capacity-building workshops, research endeavours, or media and communication projects to amplify marginalised voices.
The Government will provide funding and support, which includes monitoring by the Ministry, and continued engagement with
awardees during implementation and post-project completion.
Government funding for the project will not exceed GY$100,000. Legal registration is not required for this opportunity; however, references must be provided.
Interested persons/or-
Corentyne fire that killed 5 was deliberately set – Divisional Fire Officer
The recent fire at No. 64 Village Corentyne, Berbice which claimed the lives of a mother and her four children was an act of arson, according to Divisional Fire Officer Clive McDonald.
Preliminary investigations into the cause of the November 12, 2024 fire have revealed that it was deliberately set.
The early morning inferno claimed the lives of a 34-year-old housewife, Hemwattie Singh, and four of her children; Kelvin Ramjatan called “Rovin” 14,
Brandon Ramjatan called “Ravin” 10 – a child living with a disability, Cindy Ramjatan called “Emily” –11; a student of New Market Primary School and 2-yearold Tomesh Ramjatan called “Arvin”.
The woman’s eldest child – 17-year-old Kevin Ramjattan called Alex –managed to escape unharmed but his mother and siblings were trapped.
At the time of the fire, the woman’s husband was in police custody.
According to the police, the children’s father,
Rohan Ramjattan a cattle farmer called “Map Head” was arrested by Police in Berbice before the deadly blaze for cattle rustling. At the time of the devasting fire, he was in police custody.
The Guyana Times understands that there was a possibility of the cattle farmer implicating others in the matter of police interest and went to his home to give a warning of the possible effects if he did. Nevertheless, the fire department is continuing its investigations.
ganisations can view the template proposal docu-
ment here. All proposals must be submitted on this template to the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance by 4:30 PM on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.
Proposals can be submitted in softcopy via email to research.officer@ mpag.gov.gy with the subject “HUMAN RIGHTS PROJECT PROPOSAL”.
Hardcopy proposals should be addressed to the Senior Research Officer, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance and delivered to the Ministry at 105 New Garden Street, Queenstown, Georgetown.
The winners will be announced during the Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Expo on December 9-10, 2024.
The Ministry’s drive to prioritise human rights, es-
pecially those of vulnerable groups, continues to manifest itself through a range of initiatives. Earlier this month, 162 people graduated from the first homegrown International Human Rights Law certificate course.
The programme aimed to educate Guyanese on human rights, international rights and conventions, and Guyana’s constitution and laws.
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, has been adamant that more must be done to bridge the gap in public knowledge about human rights and international conventions.
Therefore, innovative human rights projects spearheaded by community groups and young individuals will advance this cause.
Unlicensed Berbice motorcyclist dies after crashing into parked lorry
An unlicensed motorcyclist was on Friday killed after crashing into a parked lorry along the Number 72 Village Public Road, Corentyne Berbice.
The dead man has been identified as 23-year-old Burchell Rover of Number 77 Housing Scheme, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).
Based on the information received, Rover was riding a motorcycle, CL 3169 when he lost control and collided with the left side rear portion of the parked motor lorry.
As a result of the collision, Rover was flung off the motorcycle and fell onto the road surface, where he received in-
juries.
He was picked up in a semi-conscious condition by public-spirited citizens and taken to the Skeldon Public Hospital, where he was treated for a fractured right leg and other injuries.
He was later transferred to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital for further medical attention but subsequently succumbed to his injuries.
The police say at the time of the accident, Rover who was not a licensed driver, and was riding at a fast rate of speed and was not wearing a safety helmet. The police have not been able to ascertain the owner of the motorcycle.
There have been 17 fa-
tal accidents on the roads in Region Six resulting in 20 road deaths so far this year in Region Six. Of the 20 persons who died in the streets, 11 were motorcyclists.
Only recently Region Six Police Commander Senior Superintendent Shivpersaud Bacchus pointed out that there are too many reckless motorcycle users on the roadways.
“Reckless, in the sense that they are not using the motorcycle in the way that they ought to. You find some riders who are lying flat on the motorcycle and you can hardly see their head if you are approaching, they lose control.”
The mother and her four children who perished in the blaze
The accident scene
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, handing over a certificate to a graduate of the International Human Rights Law certificate course at the recent graduation
Regional Nicaragua approves reforms boosting power of President Ortega and his wife
Legislators in Nicaragua have approved a constitutional amendment that will strengthen the power of longtime President Daniel Ortega, who has been accused of cracking down on critics and political challengers.
The reforms, which 79-year-old Ortega sent to Congress this week “as a matter of urgency”, were approved unanimously on Friday by 91 lawmakers.
The changes elevate Ortega’s wife and vice president, Rosario Murillo, to the post of “co-president”. They also increase the presidential term in the Central American nation from five to six years and extend the executive’s control over the media.
According to the Nicaraguan Constitution, reforms must be approved in a second legislative period, in this case in 2025, before they
become effective.
Rights groups and international observers slammed the vote as a “sham” and accused the Sandinista leader of stifling dissent by trying to legalise the “absolute power” Ortega and his wife already wield in the country.
Ortega first served as president from 1985 to 1990, returning to power in 2007.
He secured a fourth consecutive term as president in
2021 after an election campaign that was marked by a months-long crackdown on dissent and the arrests of dozens of opposition figures, including several presidential hopefuls.
Ortega’s government has shut down more than 5,000 NGOs since mass protests broke out against his rule in 2018. About 300 people died in the unrest, according to the United Nations.
US bars former Colombia army commander, cites extrajudicial killings
The United States on Friday barred former Colombian army commander General Mario Montoya from entering the U.S., citing what it called credible evidence he had been involved in the extrajudicial killings of civilians.
Montoya has been placed on a designated list of people subject to U.S. sanctions "due to his involvement in gross violations of human rights," Secretary of State Antony
Blinken said in a statement.
In August 2021, the Colombian attorney general's office said it would bring charges against Montoya for his alleged responsibility in 104 killings from November 2007 to November 2008. A court later blocked the move.
Montoya was commander of Colombia's army between 2006 and 2008, a time when the army was fighting Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia rebels.
Montoya resigned in November 2008 amid allegations that army soldiers had killed civilians to present them as combat deaths. He has previously denied the charges against him.
Blinken cited credible evidence that during his tenure, Montoya "was involved in extrajudicial killings of civilians, which were falsely reported as combat deaths during Colombia’s internal armed conflict." (Reuters)
Hungary invites Netanyahu to visit as world leaders split over ICC arrest warrant
Hungary’s illiberal prime minister, Viktor Orbán, has said he will invite his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu, to visit in defiance of an international criminal court arrest warrant, as world leaders split over the ICC’s momentous decision.
The world’s highest criminal court issued warrants on Thursday for Netanyahu, his former defence minister Yoav Gallant and the Hamas commander Ibrahim al-Masri, commonly known as Mohammed
Deif, who is believed to be dead, for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Orbán, whose country holds the rotating EU presidency and who has previously said he would not arrest the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, who is also wanted by the ICC, called the court’s decision “outrageously brazen” and “cynical”.
“There is no choice here, we have to defy this decision … I will guarantee Mr Netanyahu, if he comes, that the judgment will have
no effect in Hungary and that we will not follow its terms,” he said on Friday. Nations are divided over how to respond to the arrest warrants, the first ever issued by the ICC against leaders of a democratic country. In principle, Netanyahu and Gallant would risk arrest if they go to any of the 124 states that are members of the ICC, including the EU nations, the UK, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Japan and dozens of African, Latin American and Asia-Pacific countries. (The Guardian)
Bolsonaro's coup indictment postponed by Brazil's top prosecutor – sources
Brazil's top public prosecutor is not likely to issue any indictments until next year for former President Jair Bolsonaro, members of his government and military officers who allegedly planned a coup after his 2022 election defeat, four sources told Reuters.
That is because General Prosecutor Paulo Gonet is planning to merge three Federal Police investigations into Bolsonaro's actions against Brazil's democratic system and produce one single global indictment against him, they said.
On Thursday, Federal Police formally accused Bolsonaro and 36 others of the crimes of attempted coup d'état, violent abolition of the democratic state of law and participation in a criminal organization. The 884page report was handed to the Supreme Court, which will send it to Gonet next week.
Bolsonaro plotted to overturn his 2022 election defeat, along with dozens of ex-min-
isters and senior aides, including active duty military officers, in a conspiracy that included plans for assassinations, the police said.
The police report capped a nearly two-year investigation into Bolsonaro's role in the election-denying movement that culminated in riots by his supporters that
the capital, in January 2023, just a week after his rival,
office. Gonet is expected to take time to carefully analyze the documents of the three investigations that propose indicting dozens of people. (Reuters)
President Daniel Ortega
Viktor Orbán and Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem in 2019 – (Photo by Israel Prime Ministry Press Office / Anadolu Agency / AFP)
swept Brasilia,
President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, took
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro leaving his home following a search operation in Brasilia, Brazil May 3, 2023 (Reuters/Adriano Machado/File Photo)
Around the World Judge delays Trump's sentencing for 3rd time
ANew York judge has delayed Donald Trump's scheduled sentencing as his attorneys continue to push for his conviction to be tossed out. Trump originally was going to appear in court for sentencing on 26 November.
He was convicted on 34 felony fraud counts in May. His attorneys argue his conviction should be thrown out on the grounds of presidential immunity, and because it would interfere with his duties as president.
The Manhattan district attorney, who prosecuted Trump, plans to oppose that effort, but has suggested to the judge that sentencing the president-elect wait until after his second term in
Justice Juan Merchan has paused all proceedings until he hears briefs from both parties, which are due in December. Justice Merchan did not order a new date for Trump's sentencing, and stayed the matter until he hears from lawyers.
But the court is now up against a ticking clock to decide what to do, as Trump's inauguration in late January grows ever closer.
In May, a New York jury found Trump guilty on dozens of counts of falsifying business records. The charges stemmed from Trump's efforts to disguise reimbursements to his per-
sonal lawyer, who had made a hush-money payment to an adult film star to silence her claims of a sexual encounter with Trump.
Prosecutors successfully argued that the payoff, which happened just days before the 2016 election, was tantamount to election interference because it kept potentially damaging allegations from voters. Trump has long denied any wrongdoing and cast the case as politically motivated. He has maintained that he did not have a sexual encounter with the woman, Stormy Daniels.
In July, the US Supreme Court ruled that presidents have immunity from criminal prosecution for certain
2 men found guilty in smuggling deaths of family at US-Canada border
AMinnesota jury has found two men guilty of helping smuggle an Indian family from Canada to the US in January 2022, leading to their deaths.
Harshkumar Ramanlal Patel and Steve Anthony Shand were found guilty on all counts of human trafficking, criminal conspiracy and culpable homicide not amounting to murder.
Both had pleaded not guilty to the charges in relation to the death of the Patel family, whose bodies were found frozen in a Manitoba field by Canadian authorities 12m (39ft) from the US border.
The trial has shed light on human smuggling operations that help foreign nationals move to North America unlawfully.
The jury presented the verdict in a Minnesota court on Friday after a few hours of deliberation. The two men will be sentenced at a later date. They each face as long as 55 years in prison.
The trial, which began on Monday, included testimony from another convicted mi-
grant smuggler and a survivor from the same group that the Patel family was travelling with.
The jurors were also shown text messages sent between the two accused in the weeks leading up to the day the Patel family died. They discussed travel logistics for the migrants, as well as the freezing temperatures on the day of the fatal trip.
The bodies of Vaishaliben Patel, her husband Jagdish and their two young children, 11-year-old Vihangi and three-year-old Dharmik, were found by Canadian police in January 2022.
Authorities believe that
the family - who had travelled on visitor visas from their home village in western India to Toronto, Canada - were trying to cross into the US when they were caught in the blinding blizzard and temperatures as low as -35C (-31F).
Prosecutors said they had become separated from a larger group of people being smuggled across the border.
Authorities said Patel (the accused, who is not related to the deceased family) was a key organizer of the operation, while Shand was arrested for planning to pick up the family and other migrants once they crossed into the US. (BBC)
official acts undertaken while in office.
That ruling stemmed from a battle over Trump's federal election interference case. But Trump's attorneys in his New York criminal trial argue those protections should extend to this case as well.
The sentencing battle was postponed until after the election, which Trump won decisively on 5 November. Trump's lawyer, Todd Blanche, called
for the "immediate dismissal of this case," because, he argued, such an outcome was required by the US Constitution and the Presidential Transition Act.
But this week, the Manhattan district attorney fired back, saying he planned to oppose any dismissal of the conviction. But he also acknowledged the unprecedented constitutional issues at play, and floated the idea that Justice Merchan could wait to sen-
tence Trump until after his presidency in 2029.
On Friday, Justice Merchan ordered Trump's lawyers to file their full argument for dismissal by 2 December, several weeks before they had proposed. Prosecutors must present their arguments to keep the conviction intact by 9 December.
The judge said it will not accept further reply briefs from either party after those deadlines. (BBC)
Israel bombards Beirut suburbs as fighting rages in southern Lebanon
Israeli forces have bombarded southern Lebanon and the suburbs of Beirut, killing at least five medics and crumpling a multistorey building, as ground troops have clashed with Hezbollah fighters in the south.
Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) reported Israeli warplanes launched strikes on Friday on two buildings just inside Beirut’s southern suburbs.
A missile struck the middle of an 11-storey building housing shops, a gym and apartments located on a usually busy street in the heavily populated area.
The impact sparked a fireball and caused the structure to collapse on top of itself, littering the road with debris.
The NNA reported people fled an adjacent neighbourhood after Israeli army spokesman Avichay
Adraee warned in a post on the social media platform X that the military would strike “Hezbollah facilities and interests” in Chiyah. Evacuation orders also included the areas of Haret Hreik and Ghobeiry.
The NNA earlier on Friday reported several other Israeli strikes on south Beirut, adding: “Thick smoke was seen rising from the vicinity of the Lebanese University” in the Hadath neighbourhood. The Israeli military said in a statement its “fighter jets completed a new round of strikes” on Beirut’s southern suburbs. (Aljazeera)
Putin says Russia will use new missile again in 'combat conditions'
Russia has a stock of powerful new missiles "ready to be used", President Vladimir Putin has said, a day after his country fired a new ballistic missile at the Ukrainian city of Dnipro.
In an unscheduled TV address, the Russian leader said the Oreshnik missile could not be intercepted and promised to carry out more tests, including in "combat conditions".
Russia's use of the Oreshnik capped a week of escalation in the war that also saw Ukraine fire US and British missiles into Russia for the first time.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for world leaders to give a "serious response" so that Putin "feels the real consequences of his actions".
His country was asking Western partners for updated air defence systems, he added.
According to news agen-
cy Interfax-Ukraine, Kyiv is seeking to obtain the US Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), or to upgrade its Patriot anti-ballistic missile defence systems.
In Friday's address Putin said the Oreshnik hypersonic missiles flew at 10 times the speed of sound and ordered them to be put into production. He had earlier said that use of the missile
was a response to Ukraine's use of Storm Shadow and Atacms missiles. Thursday's strike on Dnipro was described as unusual by eyewitnesses and triggered explosions which went on for three hours. The attack included a strike by a missile so powerful that in the aftermath Ukrainian officials said it resembled an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). (Aljazeera)
office.
Donald Trump attending his New York criminal trial
The Patel family died while trying to cross the border from Canada to the US in January 2022
Smoke and flames rising after an Israeli strike on a building in the Chiyah district of Beirut's southern suburbs [Mohamed Azakir/ Reuters]
President Vladimir Putin
Communicate, participate and socialize, and you’ll meet someone who shares your concerns. You have plenty to gain through the connections you make. Travel will be enlightening and prompt a move or change.
Step outside your comfort zone and do something that sparks your imagination. A shift in your appearance or lifestyle will help build enthusiasm. Attend a reunion or conference.
Take a moment to review information and verify its authenticity. Pass along only what you feel is accurate and helpful. Follow-up will be essential and rewarding.
You can reach your goal if you trust and believe in yourself. Well-intended actions will impress someone in a position to help you advance or boost your reputation.
High-energy activities, competitive games and networking or social events will bring out the best in you. Keep your emotions in check, especially when dealing with financial matters.
Concentrate on your emotional well-being and what makes you happy. A romantic gesture will bring you closer to someone special. A trendy new look will boost your ego and attract attention.
Think big but put a budget in place. Setting boundaries will deter others from talking you into something you don’t want to do or cannot afford. Start a learning expedition.
Secure your home, possessions and investments. Adjust to what’s happening and refuse to let anyone railroad you into something unnecessary. Stay on track and focus on using your skills.
You will meet with opposition if you can’t keep your facts straight. Don’t take on a challenge unprepared or allow someone to make you look bad. Do your homework.
Pay attention to detail, especially when dealing with a loved one or when making a presentation. A positive change will occur at home if you use your money efficiently.
Keep an open mind and listen carefully. The information you share will grab attention and likely put you on the spot. Refuse to let anyone take advantage of you.
Quibbling over something inconsequential will waste time. Work to simplify your life instead of taking on too much. Take a stand and halt anything moving too quickly.
ARCHIE
Glenn’s maiden century leads Jamaica Scorpions to Super50 Final
Javelle Glenn’s maiden List A century was the backbone of a remarkable recovery as the Jamaica Scorpions defeated the Leeward Islands Hurricanes by 107 runs in the second semifinal match of the CG United Insurance Super50 tournament, played at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on
from John Campbell (77), Jeavor Royal (73), and Kirk McKenzie (48).
The Scorpions had started shakily, losing Carlos Brown for one and recording a mere 12 runs for the loss of one wicket by the third over. Campbell and McKenzie had rebuilt the innings with a 114-run stand for the second wick-
Thursday. The victory secured the Scorpions a spot in the final against the Barbados Pride.
Batting first, Scorpions posted a tournament-high 352-9, having overcome a middle-order collapse thanks to Glenn’s composed and unbeaten 114.
The Scorpions’ innings was supported by crucial knocks
et, but when McKenzie fell to Rahkeem Cornwall for 48, a dramatic collapse was sparked.
Cornwall and Hayden Walsh Jr wreaked havoc on the Scorpions’ middle order, reducing them from 132-2 in the 21st over to 138-7 in the 24th over. Jermaine Blackwood, Romaine Morris and Peat
World Athletics has unveiled the World Athletics Ultimate Championship -- a bold new addition to the athletics calendar, and an event designed to determine the ultimate champions of the sport. The inaugural event will take place in 2026, over three thrilling evenings from September 11-13, at the Budapest National Athletics Centre in Hungary.
This revolutionary event will feature 28 events across 16 disciplines, including marquee clashes in the 100m, pole vault, and introduction of a mixed 4x100m relay. Athletes will vie for a share of the US$10 million prize pot, with $150,000 being awarded to the champion in each event.
The World Athletics Ultimate Championship will be held every two years, bridging the gap in years without a World Championships. Its fastpaced, television-friendly format promises to deliver an electrifying experience for fans both in-stadium and around the world. Each session will last under three hours, ensuring non-stop
action and showcasing the world’s best athletes competing head-to-head while representing their national teams in their respective kits.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe, describing the event as a "game-changer" for the sport, has said: “This new global event will be a game-changer for our sport and for our athletes. We want to bring our fans athletics like they have never seen it before – with the best of the best athletes in our sport competing headto-head in a passion-fuelled, high-octane festival of sport.”
The competition will span 28 events, combining traditional track and field disciplines with innovative additions. Track events include the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 5000m, 100m/110m hurdles, 400m hurdles, and mixed 4x100m and mixed 4x400m relays. Field events would feature pole vault, high jump, long jump, triple jump (women), hammer throw (men), and javelin throw.
World Athletics has
Salmon all departed without scoring, while Brad Barnes managed just four.
Glenn, who had been at the crease during this carnage, held firm as wickets tumbled around him. With the Scorpions in dire straits, he found a willing partner in Jeavor Royal, and the pair staged a sensational eighth-wicket fightback by adding 124 runs in just 64 balls.
Royal’s aggressive 73 off 42 deliveries, which included six fours and six sixes, provided the Scorpions with much-needed momentum before he fell to Walsh.
Glenn continued the charge, adding 78 runs for the ninth wicket with Gordon Bryan, who contributed 11 runs to the part-
nership; and his unbeaten knock ensured Jamaica crossed the 350-run mark, with Markino Mindley accompanying him in the final overs.
Cornwall ended with figures of 4-67, and Walsh Jr with 3-78, but their efforts were undone by Glenn’s heroics and the Scorpions’ lower-order resistance.
The Hurricanes made a bright start in chasing 353 despite losing early wickets, and reached 60-3 in the eighth over. Kofi James led the charge with a spirited 79 off 64 balls, during which seven fours and five sixes were recorded.
James combined with Jewel Andrew for a 66-run fourth-wicket stand that
kept the Hurricanes in contention, and Jahmar Hamilton added 58 while Walsh Jr chipped in with 31; but the Hurricanes fell short of the required tempo, as Mindley’s incisive bowling
broke key partnerships. Mindley finished with figures of 4-46, and Javeor Royal (2-37) and Brad Barnes (2-65) also played important roles in dismissing the Hurricanes for 245 in 35.4 overs . (Sportsmax)
World Athletics announces groundbreaking Ultimate Championship
partnered with Tata Communications and HBS as host broadcasters, leveraging their expertise to deliver an innovative and immersive viewing experience. The agreement builds on a five-year deal covering World Athletics Series events.
Infront has been appointed to lead international media rights sales, focusing on free-to-air platforms to maximize global reach and ensure that fans everywhere can experience the excitement.
“Tata Communications is thrilled to partner with World Athletics for the Ultimate Championship, a groundbreaking addition to the global track and field calendar,” Dhaval Ponda, Tata Communications Vice President and Global Media Head, has said.
HBS CEO Dan Miodownik has highlighted the event’s potential for innovation by stating, “It is a real opportunity to help shape the way coverage of athletics evolves over the coming years.”
The Ultimate Championship will return
to the Budapest National Athletics Centre, which hosted the 2023 World Athletics Championships.
Hungarian Secretary of State for Sports, Adam Schmidt, celebrated the announcement and noted the growing reputation Budapest is acquiring as a global sports hub.
“It is a great honour that, after the exhilarating World Athletics Championships, Budapest 23, the wonderful National
Athletics Centre will once again open its doors for a major international sporting event,” Schmidt has said.
World Athletics CEO Jon Ridgeon has emphasized the event’s focus on engaging fans with constant, fast-paced action. “The Ultimate Championship is also a chance for us to really innovate how we deliver our sport, presenting it in new formats and across different platforms designed to keep
the entire venue engaged,” he said. With its innovative format, lineup of star-studded athletes, and a prize pool designed to attract the best in the world, the World Athletics Ultimate Championship is poised to redefine how athletics is presented and consumed globally. The event promises to set a new standard for excitement and fan engagement, ushering in a new era for the sport. (Sportsmax)
A number of Caribbean faces would likely feature in World Athletics’ new venture
An exultant Javelle Glenn after smashing his maiden List A century
A scene from the second CG United Super50 semifinal
Bangladesh Tour of the West Indies 2024/25: Test 1
West Indies hold slight edge after day one
– Mikyle Louis scores 97, Alick Athanaze scores 90
Mikyle
Louis and Alick
Athanaze both suffered the heartbreak of falling in the nineties on the first day of the Antigua Test against Bangladesh. Otherwise, the West Indies pair did enough to make the opening day of the series theirs.
The 140-run fourth-wicket stand between the pair revitalised West Indies' innings by adding pace to the overall scoring, and led to West Indies dominating proceedings for more than two sessions.
Louis came agonizingly close to his maiden Test century, but fell on 97. Despite showing great restraint throughout his 218-ball stay, Louis spent 27 balls in the nineties before falling to Bangladesh stand-in captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
Athanaze fell to Taijul Islam a few overs later, the second time he got out in the nineties in his short Test career.
The Bangladesh bowlers would be disappointed that they couldn't hold back the Louis-Athanaze partnership, after keeping West Indies' scoring rate to under 2.50 in the first 54 overs. Taskin Ahmed took two wickets, while Taijul and Mehidy each took one -average returns overall, despite Bangladesh choosing to bowl first at the toss.
After the LouisAthanaze pair had fallen to the spinners, Justin Greaves and Joshua Da Silva scored freely against the second new ball towards the end of the day. Play was called off after 84 overs when a drizzle started, while the light was not great either.
The Bangladesh fast-bowling trio of Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam and Taskin had challenged West Indies early in the
day, but Louis held his own. Hasan kept beating him outside the off-stump; Shoriful tested him around the offstump, with the delivery always threatening to shape in; and Taskin used the wobble seam, sometimes bowled the odd yorker, and press-
ing from his bat.
Louis, meanwhile, waited for the short ball, which got him two fours with the pull shot.
Taskin removed Brathwaite by trapping him lbw with a hint of inward movement that beat
ing Louis to fish outside offstump.
Shoriful, who got more swing from the Sir Curtly Ambrose end than the Sir Andy Roberts end, was playing his first Test since mid-August. He had missed the previous five Tests, but looked in tune with the red ball. He even troubled Kraigg Brathwaite, who tried to dig in despite the runs not flow-
his bat. Taskin then had Keacy Carty caught at midon when he couldn't keep his wristy whip down; it ended up as a tame dismissal.
Brathwaite made four runs in 38 balls, while Carty ended on an eight-ball duck.
Louis then found Kavem Hodge a little more forthcoming as they tried to rebuild the innings. The pair struck four boundaries be-
fore the lunch break, but then consolidated in the second session. Louis brought up his fifty when he struck Taskin with a punch down the ground for a boundary. Hodge then slapped Taskin with a square cut, but didn’t last for much longer. Attempting a second run off Mehidy's bowling, Hodge was run out for 25 after Taijul's throw from long leg had found him well short of his crease despite a dive.
Athanaze had made efforts to push the run-rate, but was met with continuous discipline from Bangladesh. In the afternoon, spinners Mehidy and Taijul kept things tight. Athanze skied a couple of balls that fell slightly away from the fielder's reach. One of them, a top edge towards mid-on, could have become a catch had Taskin moved slightly faster from mid-on. Athanaze struck Mehidy with a sweep for four, but couldn't quite connect with his several reverse sweeps in the second session.
Louis, who lifted Taskin for a four over his head towards the end of the second session, remained mostly quiet in his approach, while Athanaze took the initiative to raise West Indies' scoring rate after tea. He started the final session
with two square-cut boundaries, before he finally got a four with a reverse sweep off Mehidy.
Louis then lofted Mehidy for the first six of the day, which took him into the eighties. Then Mehidy dropped Louis at slip when he reached 90. Louis picked up Mahmud for his ninth boundary as he edged closer to his maiden century, while Athanaze also opened up at the other end.
He swept Taijul before hitting Taskin for consecu-
SCOREBOARD
tive fours in the 71st over, cut and flicked away. Athanaze then slogswept Taijul for his first six, and then came another reverse-swept boundary. Against the run of play, Mehidy removed Louis, who was charging at him but got caught at slip where Shahadat Hossain took a good catch. Three overs later, Taijul had Athanaze caught behind. In the space of four runs, both batters were gone, allowing for a small opening come day two. (ESPNCricinfo)
22 teams to compete in Diamond Mineral...
With the absence of an artificial pitch for the outdoor game, this festival keeps hockey alive and keeps our athletes exposed to foreign competition, which is so critical for the development and sustenance of the game.
“We have hosted teams from Canada, the USA, Trinidad, and Barbados over the years, and with the recent success of our Masters team at the Masters Indoor World Cup, some attention is now being paid by teams further afield.
“As far as hockey goes, I believe our sport has been largely overachieving, given our conditions; and in fact, this year's success was among the most challenging, and so the most rewarding.”
Fernandes also announced that Umpire Ayanna McLean would be officiating at the festival and would be in a capacity to
guide the local umpires.
“Ayanna McLean is a hockey umpire from Trinidad and Tobago and a former defender for the Trinidad and Tobago Women's National Team. She is the second person from the Caribbean to be qualified to umpire at a World Cup or Olympic tournament, after Roger St. Rose, and the first woman to do so. Ayanna has done what no other hockey umpire in the region has been able to do, which is officiated in 100 international games. She follows in the footsteps of her mother Cheryl McLean, who has been a renowned umpire in the region and a visiting umpire from Trinidad in past versions of the tournament. So, we are very excited to have Ayanna here, because she's a worldclass umpire, very well recognized, and she'll be here not only to officiate games
herself, but also to guide the young umpires in the tournament, and that sort of thing.”
He also declared that the games would be streamed live by Enet, providing for international audience to view the Games while showcasing Guyana’s tourism and marketing of the sport.
The President said, “We have been able to showcase our sport to larger audiences than is possible in local tournaments. The high levels of skill and competition have no doubt left lasting impressions in the minds of some of our youth. This we hope will be a necessary catalyst to stimulate further interest in the sport, especially at the junior level.
“This year, thanks to ENET, we will be streaming matches live, which will provide an opportunity for an international audience. This
is an important step in marketing our festival to teams of nations who may not have visited Guyana, and will go a long way in showcasing Guyana as a sports tourism destination, much like the large cricket competitions have been doing.”
DDL Marketing Executive Larry Wills, also speaking at the launch, emphasized DDL’s commitment to sports, and expressed hope for the games to get good support from the public. Wills said, “So it is one that we started many, many years ago; as Philip mentioned, 19 years ago, and it's one that we're proud of and one that we will continue to support. You know, at Demerara Distillers Limited, we really try to do as much as possible for sports in Guyana, whether it's a grassroots program or, you know, a program for
adults to engage in and develop their talents more; especially the Demerara Mineral Water Hockey Tournament, where we have foreign teams coming in. So, we're happy to be a part of this.
“We will continue to be a part of it. I trust that, you know, you guys will continue to support us as the media. We hope that we'll have great support from members of the public coming into the Gymnasium to watch the games. Let us just have a good time, and support the teams participating.”
The tournament is made possible by sponsorship from Demerara Distillers Limited, Ansa McAl, ExxonMobil, Republic Bank, Bounty Supermarkets and Sterling Products Ltd; Ministry of Youth, Sport & Culture, and the National Sports Commission.
FROM PAGE 23
Alick Athanaze fell ten short of a century
Taskin Ahmed took two wickets
U17 boys’ and girls’ teams depart for Suriname matches
The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has announced the departure of the under-17 boys and girls’ national teams for Suriname, where they would each compete in four critical international matches as part of a bilateral agreement with the Suriname Football Association aimed at fostering competitive youth development.
This initiative underscores the GFF’s dedication to building a solid foundation for Guyana’s football future.
The teams feature a diverse representation of players, including heavy Indigenous participation and talent from across all administrative regions of the country, as well as some international players.
The squads showcase young athletes from various clubs and academies across Guyana, reflecting the rich talent pool nurtured through local and regional efforts; and building on the 2023 inception, this marks the second year of partnership between the GFF and the Suriname Football Federation.
The collaboration not only promotes regional cooperation, but also provides a vital platform for young ath-
letes to gain international experience. These matches are the first phase of this year’s initiative, with Suriname set to visit Guyana for a series of return games in December.
GFF President Wayne Forde, in emphasizing the significance of this partnership, has said, “Youth teams are the backbone of our football aspirations. These matches allow us to gauge the progress of our players and prepare them for upcoming international challenges. Their dedication to rigorous preparation showcases their determination to make Guyana proud.”
Both teams are preparing for pivotal CONCACAF qualifiers for the FIFA U17 World Cup, scheduled for early 2025. With these matches, the young athletes aim to solidify their readiness and further their development as ambassadors of Guyanese football. Diverse representation in these squads highlights the GFF's commitment to inclusivity and national development. GFF continues to integrate players from the hinterland regions and urban centres alike, ensuring equal opportunities for all.
22 teams to compete in Diamond Mineral Water Hockey Festival
Aiming to bridge the international gap with local players, the Guyana Hockey Board has launched the 19th Diamond Mineral Water Hockey Festival, which is set for play from November 28 and is expected to fill the National Gymnasium with glimpses of spectacular hockey.
The festival will see the participation of four male international teams with three from Trinidad - TT Defense Force, Queens Park, TT Police and one from Canada - Toronto along with four teams locally –Pepsi Hikers, Old Fort, Saints, and Bounty GCC, while in the female category, two international teams will see two teams from Trinidad – George United and TT Police, along with GBTI GCC, Old Fort and Saints, who are locals.
Organizers, along with main sponsor of the event
FC)
Ezekiel
‘Metro Mile’ to headline eightrace card
The Metro Mile is the talk of all horse owners as the December 15 Showdown of Champions looms large on the horizon of the Port Mourant Turf Club.
The feature mile event, sponsored by Metro Office Supplies, will headline the eight-race card set to ring in the festivities for horse racing fans.
According to the organiser Terbhuwan ‘Turbo’ Jagdeo, the company has come on board in a big way in what is shaping up to be the hottest December horse race ticket.
being awarded $2M. The race is open to all horses. The co-feature event is the E-Class non-winners in Guyana and F-Class & Lower. It will be contested over 1300 metres for prize money totalling $2M. The Two-Year-Old Guyana and West Indiesbred horses would be racing over 1200 metres, and are sure to attract the attention of horse racing fans. There is also a race for Three-YearOld Guyana-bred horses over 1700 metres. The G-Class horses would be contesting over 1200 metres; the H-Class Non-Winners of 2024 would be racing over 1600 metres; the K-Class and L-Class horses would be racing over 1600 metres; the GuyanaBred horses would be racing over 1600M; and a 1300-metre sprint is also carded for J, K and L class Maidens.
The Men's Over-35 Division welcomes Fatima and Queen's Park of Trinidad and Toronto Lions of Canada to challenge GCC and Hikers, while in the Men's Over-45 Division, teams Old Fort and GCC will battle Fatima and Carib out of Trinidad.
ment’s impact.
President of the Guyana Hockey Board, Phillip Fernandes, in brief remarks emphasized that credit must be given to organizers over their years and the tourna-
President Fernandes said, “We began this festival back in 2004, and we have only missed staging for three years. So, one was in 2010 due to renovations of the Sports Hall, and at that time the Gymnasium floor was unsuitable.
“And then the other two occasions were during the COVID pandemic, which would be 2020 and 2021. The fact that we can still be staging this festival after so many years is a credit to all those involved.
“I must say thanks to Metro Office Supplies for coming on board for this feature event. We expect to have some of the big names in horses for the Showdown of Champions race card. There are names like the Guyana Cup winner Olympic Kremlin, along with strong contenders in Mapa Do Brazil, Easy Time, Novo Sol, Stolen Money, Beckham James, Oy Vey and a lot of other horses on board for the event.” The 1600-metre event will have prize money of $4M, with the winning horse
The event is sponsored by J’s Supermarket, Jumbo Jet, Shi-Oil, AJM, OBL, KP Jagdeo General Contractor, Permaul Trading, Laka Rambrich Rice Farm, Big G Sawmill & Lumber Yard, Shook Shivmangal & friends of USA.
Jeremiah Welcome (Midfielder - Milerock
Baldeo (Forward - Rising Stars FC)
Matthew Tulshi (Forward - WNY Flash)
Steven Tiwari (Forward - FC America)
Port Mourant Showdown of Champions…
Olympic Kremlin is expected to be back in action
GFF President Wayne Forde taking a photo opportunity with the Boys’ U17 National Team
GFF President Wayne Forde taking a photo opportunity with the Girls’ U17 National Team
ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League…
with GSL T20 3 days away
Guyana will take centre stage in the cricketing world in a matter of days when the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 bowls off at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence.
As teams from around the world begin arriving in Guyana for the anticipated inaugural event, local franchise and hosts, the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW), are the first among them to begin training. Under lights at the National Stadium on Friday night, the likes of Keemo Paul and Dwaine Pretorius churned out the big shots under the watchful eyes of Head Coach Prasanna Agoram and Assistant Coaches Ryan Hercules and Rayon Griffith.
Following the session, Agoram reflected on the session and the work he intends to do in the coming days.
“That is an advantage we’ve got. We’ve got a lot of CPL players as well here that (are) going to be added. They know the conditions well. Guys like Keemo Paul, Shimron Hetmyer, Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie, Shai Hope, all these guys have been playing for Guyana for some time. That’s always good to add some experience. They know the conditions well, so we need to
make sure we get a lot of time to spend on the other guys, particularly the overseas players,” Agoram explained.
The Head Coach went on to add, “Captain has just arrived now, the guy from Bangladesh, Tanzim; also, now and tomorrow [today], we’re going for full session.”
ENet on board Telecommunications company
Enet is a partner of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League, reports on Friday have indicated. ENet’s partnership with South America’s first stand-alone cricket event would
see the entity broadcasting live matches on their E2 channel, while also packaging highlights from the tournament’s matches.
In addition, the company has ex pressed intention to get patrons in the game with giveaways.
Enet Owner Vishok Persaud has said about the partnership, “This col laboration with Global Super League reflects our commitment to delivering meaningful and memorable experi ences for cricket fans, and also highlighting Guyana's potential as a global destination for world-class events.”
after having previously named their overseas signings.
Arrivals
Meanwhile, the Guyana Marriott Hotel in Kingston was a hive of activity on Friday as team began to arrive for the global event.
The Hampshire Hawks and a group of Amazon Warriors players, beaming happily, received a warm welcome from the Guyana Tourism Authority.
In addition, the likes of Rangpur Riders began their sojourn to the Land of Many Waters earlier this week, and are expected to have arrived in Guyana today.
Lahore Qalandars
Friday was indeed a busy day for the GSL T20, as Pakistan’s Lahore Qalandars unveiled their complete squad,
The Qalandar team reads: Tabraiz Shamsi, Carlos Brathwaite, Tom Abell, Luke Wells, Adam Rossington, Kaleem
Sana-Ur-Rehman, Mirza Tahir Baig, Tayyab Abbas, Muhammad Salman Mirza, Muhammad Akhlaq, Muhammad Faizan, Faheem Ashraf, Asif Afridi and Arif Yaqoob.
The ExxonMobil Guyana GSL T20 is set to bowl off on Tuesday, November 26, with a blockbuster clash between the Amazon Warriors and Lahore Qalandars at 19:00hrs. After 9 league games, in which each team would have played each other once, the grand finale is scheduled for Friday, December 6, at the same venue, and bowls off at 19:00hrs. Tickets for the global event are available in Georgetown, Berbice and Essequibo.
The Guyana Amazon Warriors in training session on Friday night
Scenes from the Marriott Hotel lobby, where teams arrived for the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League
