“Leave distractors alone; we are here to build a stronger community” – Pres Ali tells Buxton …as Govt to help develop 25 acres of land with smart agriculture …residents call for factory, support for youth development
President Dr Irfaan Ali’s community meetings on Saturday took him to Buxton and Strathspey, where he listened to the concerns of the residents and in the case of the former, promised to help them develop 25 acres of land in the village with the use of smart agriculture.
Smart agriculture is the use of innovative practices and technology to maximise yields, whether they be vegetables, fruits or livestock. According to President Ali, the Government wants to not just deal with the short-term needs of residents, but their long term needs as well.
“It’s not only about the support we give to the children and women. Its not
Development Authority (GLDA) Dr Dwight Walrond, made it clear that the Government is prepared to help Buxton fulfill its agriculture potential.
“Your community is a
only about increasing salaries, pensions and because we care grant and the $100,000 grant. Those are important things, but it is also about how we can improve and expand opportunities all across the country. How we can build our competitiveness.”
“How we can create productive opportunities within communities. And today, as we are in your community, one of the things we want to engage you on is how we can use this opportunity to enhance and open up opportunities and creativity within the community,” President Ali said.
Meanwhile, drama would also unfold during the President’s visit to Buxton, when a villager began heckling and prompted other villagers to urge the person to be quiet. President Ali eventually intervened and urged the villagers to “leave the distractors alone.”
“In every society there are distractors. Just leave the distractors alone. Leave the distractor alone. We are here focusing on your development. We are here to focus on your community and how we can further build your community. One distractor cannot distract the will of the collective of all of us.”
President Ali, who was accompanied by Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, Minister within the Housing Ministry Susan Rodrigues and head of the Guyana Livestock
farming community. Your community has strong and historical agricultural heritage. And today, I have with me for example Dr Walrond. We want our technical team to work with you and discuss with you how we can build these opportunities. How we can create these opportunities. How is it we can
work with you on a community project,” the Head of State said.
“Involving young people. Involving women. Farming and agriculture have changed rapidly around the
can develop through innovative and smart agriculture.”
Pig farming
For instance, President Ali cited the potential for pig farming. The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has been aiding pig farmers throughout the country, whether through the construction of a $600 million state of the art abattoir at Onverwagt, West Coast Berbice (WCB), or even the supply of pigs and piglets to farmers. According to the President, the Government would help Buxton to significantly boost its production of pigs.
“We’re ready to work with your community, in making it one of the largest pig pro-
world. It is about innovation. Innovation is a big part of agriculture. And what we have to do, in this innovation, is to utilise less land to get even more production. So, we want to work with the community, the farmers, the agriculture group, the women and youth, to identify 25 acres of land which we
duction areas. Because we want to expand that sector here in your community. So, these are the types of discussions we want to have with you… I’m here as part of our continuous community engagements across the country.”
Residents of Buxton speaking during the meeting
President Dr Irfaan Ali during his meeting with Buxtonians
Nicolas Maduro’s stage-managing of his inauguration for a third term as the President of Venezuela is now a done deal. That the National Electoral Council, which declared him the winner of last July 28th elections, has yet to produce the tally-sheets from the voting machines to prove their assertion – as they have done in previous elections – is proof positive that the electoral mechanism was manipulated in his favour. The ability of his opponent Eduardo Gonzalez to produce such proof has not been contradicted. The Carter Center, which had once declared Venezuela’s voting system the best in the world, agreed that Maduro gamed the result. That the latter has thumbed his nose at the world once again and is being allowed to get away with it would only encourage widening of the ambit of his ire beyond his bullyism towards Guyana, which he considers incapable of countering him.
We note the response of the United States, which had worked assiduously to have the Barbados Agreement - which Maduro signed - guide the conduct of the elections, only to see each and every term either traduced or observed in the breach. In the words of Secretary of State Anthony Blinken: “Today, Nicolás Maduro held an illegitimate presidential inauguration in Venezuela in a desperate attempt to seize power. The Venezuelan people and world know the truth –Maduro clearly lost the 2024 presidential election, and has no right to claim the presidency. The United States rejects the National Electoral Council’s fraudulent announcement that Maduro won the presidential election, and does not recognize Nicolás Maduro as the President of Venezuela. President-elect Edmundo González Urrutia should be swornin, and the democratic transition should begin. We stand ready to support a return to democracy in Venezuela.”
But we note that a similar commitment was given by the previous administration of President Donald Trump to Juan Guaido, who had won the 2018 elections. The steps they took to return democracy to Venezuela did not produce the desired result. Eerily, it would appear that the Biden Administration was not even willing to widen those measures, but rather to constrict them. Blinken’s statement continued: “The Department of State is increasing the reward offers to up to $25 million each for information leading to the arrests and/or convictions of Nicolás Maduro and Maduro’s Minister of Interior, Diosdado Cabello. The Department of State is also adding a new reward offer of up to $15 million for Maduro’s Defense Minister, Vladimir Padrino López. These three reward offers stem from criminal narco-trafficking indictments announced in March 2020. The State Department is also taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on Maduro-aligned individuals for their roles in undermining the electoral process or in acts of repression in Venezuela. To date, the Department of State has taken steps to impose visa restrictions on nearly 2,000 Maduro-aligned individuals.
“Alongside similar actions taken today by partners, including Canada, the European Union, and the United Kingdom, Treasury’s sanctions demonstrate a message of solidarity with the Venezuelan people, and further elevate international efforts to maintain pressure on Maduro and his representatives.” While we recognize that the Biden Administration is in the last week of its term, its unwillingness to terminate the licence it renewed for Chevron to restart production and shipment of Venezuelan oil signals an undercutting of the abovementioned personal sanctions, which work to merely restrict the movement of the affected individuals.
We look to the incoming Administration of President Donald Trump, who would be sworn-in this coming Friday, to rectify matters. He has sworn to “Make America Great Again”, and has shown he understands that part of that lost greatness was America’s ability to project its power beyond its borders, especially in defense of the rules-based order it articulated as far back as 1823 with its “Monroe Doctrine”. It is ironic that the first exercise of that doctrine was against Britain, at the request of Venezuela, to have its border with British Guiana settled.
Last week, in a further insult to the US, Maduro promised to elect a governor for Essequibo, whereas the US-arranged 1899 treaty had conclusively settled that border controversy.
Breaking the chains of tribalism: a call for independent thought in Guyana
Dear Editor,
In a world rapidly evolving with new ideas, opportunities and interconnectedness, the insistence on forcing individuals to conform to outdated tribal loyalties is not only archaic, but is a direct affront to our constitutional rights and personal freedoms.
In Guyana, this regressive mindset has recently reared its ugly head again, as individuals are vilified for daring to think and act independently. One of the most troubling aspects of this is the targeting of Black Guyanese by other Black Guyanese for choosing to support policies, leaders, or movements outside of traditional ethnic lines.
A recent example is the attack on James Bond, a former Opposition supporter, who faced severe backlash for exercising his democratic right to support leaders he believes serve the greater good. This kind of hostility highlights the need for urgent introspection and a departure from tribalistic, divisive politics.
Our Constitution, the supreme law of Guyana, guarantees us the right to associate with whomever we choose, whether politically, socially or religiously.
This right is a cornerstone of democracy and personal liberty. To impose ethnic or tribal loyalty on anyone violates not just this constitutional freedom, but the very essence of what it means to be human, free will, and the ability to choose based on reason and conscience.
For too long, many have clung to the dictates of dead ancestors, perpetuating cycles of division and mistrust. But the world has changed; it is no longer a place where loyalty to a group overrides the pursuit of individual growth, critical thinking, and the desire to support policies and leaders who prioritize development, unity, and progress over division and stagnation.
We live in a globalized era wherein access to information has empowered individuals to think critically, question traditional norms, and make informed decisions. Blind loyalty to ethnic lines serves no one, especially in a diverse nation like Guyana, where the potential for unity far outweighs the benefits of division.
Supporting a political party or leader is not a betrayal of one’s race; it is a choice made based on principles, vision, and the be-
lief that these leaders would uplift the nation as a whole. To reduce political choices to mere ethnic loyalty is to deny the complexity and diversity of our identities as Guyanese.
There is no need to remain part of a collective that does not serve your interests or reflect your values. Being part of a community should not come at the expense of individuality and reason. Supporting policies or leaders that align with your vision for the country is not a betrayal; it is an act of patriotism and courage.
Those who attack their own brothers and sisters for stepping outside tribal lines should ask themselves: What progress has been made by remaining trapped in this cycle? Have your lives improved? Has your community thrived? The answer often lies in breaking free from these collective shackles and embracing a mindset that prioritizes progress over partisanship.
This is a call for all Guyanese, especially the younger generation, to embrace critical thinking and independent thought. Question the narratives that tell you your loyalty must lie with a particular group or party because
of your ethnicity. Demand leaders who prioritize policies that improve your lives, not just their political careers. Let us reject the notion that we must follow the dictates of our ancestors, especially when those dictates no longer serve us in a modern world. Respecting our heritage does not mean being imprisoned by it.
Progress requires evolution, and evolution requires bold, independent thinking. Guyana’s strength lies in its diversity, not in its divisions. By stepping away from tribal politics and embracing a more inclusive and progressive approach, we can build a nation wherein every citizen, regardless of race or political affiliation, feels valued and empowered.
It is time to break free from the chains of ethnic and tribal politics. It is time to think critically, act independently, and choose leaders based on their vision for a united, prosperous Guyana. The future belongs to those who dare to rise above the past and forge a new path for themselves and their nation. Let us be those people.
Regards, Marcia Hope, MIB, MA
A person is diving from a springboard during a hot summer day at Sea Point swimming pool in Cape Town, South Africa (Reuters)
Guyana’s average homeownership age now under 30 – Pres Ali
…says Govt working to eliminate housing application backlog
President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that, due to the aggressive housing policies of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government, the average age for home ownership in Guyana is now under 30 years.
During his visit on Saturday to the East Coast Demerara (ECD) community of Strathspey, President Ali revealed the improvements that have been made when it comes to the average age for home ownership, from a time when it was well over 50 years, to below 30 years.
“Sometimes, generations that get it better do not appreciate the sacrifices of generations that preceded them. There was a time in our country when most of the communities were squatter settlements. When you had eight or nine families living in the same homes. There was a time when the average age of home ownership was 55 years plus. That’s when you could aspire to own your homes.”
“Today, the average age of home ownership is below 30 years. In some re-
According to the Head of State, this is all down to the availability of opportunities and he urged the current generation of youths to make the most of the opportunities that are before them, while appreciating how far the country has come.
“Its not that they didn’t achieve. Its that they did not have the opportunity that you have today. Many of them had to sacrifice not going to school, so that one sibling could get an education. Its not that they didn’t have the talent. It is that they never had the type of opportunities you have today. And don’t take that for granted.”
Meanwhile, during the meeting in Strathspey, the Head of State posited that the Ministry of Agriculture will work with a group of young people and women in the community to build at least 50 beehives and teach sustainable beekeeping, with the assistance of the National Agriculture Research Extension Institute (NAREI).
“We are going to give you all the hives, we are going to give you all the safety gear and equipment and
munity and enhance the involvement of young people and women in community development and economic opportunities.
Housing development
Also present at the Strathspey meeting was Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, who spoke of the Government’s efforts to develop the infrastructure within the community.
“I can safely say that we have completed the first phase of infrastructure for these new areas here. We have installed electricity, water and many of the allottees are here today. They are in the process of building their homes.”
“Some have asked for assistance with the steel and
ceiving water already, but you can also look forward to increased water supply and level of service and quality, when we complete the up-
cluding bridges and connecting roads between regions Three and Four— have been employed to improve accessibility to suburban housing developments.
cement subsidy and we will assist those who are still in the process of building or are about to start their construction. And this will be a model housing area behind here.”
When it comes to areas in Coldigen in need of regu-
gions about 25 years and just about 30 years old. That is something that we must never take for granted. And the younger generation must never take this for granted. Sometimes I look at the older persons in our communities. And younger people will look at these persons and ask, why they didn’t achieve like we achieved,” President Ali said.
they (NAREI) will give you the training. This year, 2025, we’re going to focus heavily on community investment, ensuring that the investment is focused on people-centred issues in a greater way,” the Head of State explained.
The President said the aim of the project is to improve the agricultural productivity of the com-
larisation, the Minister assured that a land surveyor would soon be visiting. Rodrigues also promised that the Ministry will return for a visit where they will do an inventory of the streets and analyse the occupancy rates. Additionally, she assured that the Ministry would be upgrading the infrastructure.
“And I know you are re-
grades at the Friendship water treatment plant.”
“So once the upgrades and transmission mains are completed, because we are running new transmission mains to this area, within the next two or three months, you can look forward to improved water quality in the new housing area,” she further explained. When it comes to areas in Coldigen in need of regularisation, the Minister assured that a land surveyor would soon be visiting.
Non Pareil
Over the week, President Ali has conducted community outreaches in eight different communities across the East Coast. During his visit to Non Pareil, one of those communities, the President also assured residents that the Government is making a concerted effort to address the backlog of housing applicants… until its at zero.
“We have been working on a plan to bring all the applications up to August of 2023 to zero,” the President said, adding that in Region Four, due to limited land availability, strategic solutions such as investing in infrastructure projects—in-
Beyond infrastructure, President Ali praised the growing focus on productivity and innovation within communities. He celebrated the shift in national dialogue toward economic empowerment and modernisation, with citizens increasingly eager to participate in agriculture innovation projects, technology, and the broader development of the nation.
“What I love is the conversation in the country is changing...the conversation now is about productivity. How do we get engaged in economic activity? How do we increase production? How do we become a part of the agricultural innovation projects? How do we become part of the building process of the country? A totally different conversation.”
President Dr Irfaan Ali and members of his cabinet during the Strathspey, ECD visit
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS ON PET ACQUISITION/ADOPTION
Dear readers of the “Pet Care” column, I trust that I have convinced you to adopt/ acquire a companion animal, and to give it a happy “FOREVER HOME”. It now behooves me to offer some suggestions associated with selecting the new puppy/kitten.
Do understand that the decision to adopt must not be a knee-jerk one, and must have been derived from your acknowledgement that it is a long-term commitment and your desire to provide optimal nurturing and care to a new family member.
Very often, even as early as a week after the pet acquisition, the new caregiver returns the animal to the shelter because the cuddly puppy/kitten is creating too much havoc, and needing an immense amount of attention. Let this outcome not be a reality.
The advice which follows has been garnered from texts on the matter of selecting a new puppy/kitten,
which have been produced by colleagues and persons with appropriate experience; and, of course, by my very own knowledge, harvested from over 5 decades of dealing with the topic of
then it would not be wise to acquire a companion animal of a breed that is known to shed hair profusely.
Start by researching the kind of adult dog that would be most compatible with
today’s “PET CARE” article. Your first consideration should be whether you want a pure breed dog as your pet, and whether this type (breed) of animal would fit into your own needs and lifestyle. For example, if you are allergic to dog/cat dandruff (hair, dead skin, scales),
your lifestyle. A book on dog breeds is a good starting place, but you could also ask veterinarians for their suggestions; they are very familiar with the different dog breeds and their suitability for each home. You can also visit dog shows to see many different breeds at once, and
talk with dog breeders and trainers.
Consider the size of the adult dog, and how it would fit into your household. Would you prefer a lap dog, or do you have room for a large dog? Research the exercise and grooming requirements of different breeds. Some breeds, such as herding dogs, require more exercise and may be best suited for someone who is looking for a jogging partner. Other breeds need regular grooming, so you would need to plan for those expenses.
There are certain breeds which are predisposed to unique health conditions. You may ask the breeder to test for the condition, if possible, or provide a written guarantee should the condition occur. Mixed-breed dogs may be less likely to have certain health conditions than purebred dogs.
Regardless of your breed of choice, the young puppy/kitten you have set your sight on should be playful, bright, and alert. You do not want to take home an asocial (antisocial) animal that is aggressive and domineering. The animal should mix easily with its littermates and other animals in the shelter/breeding station, and with personnel and humans in general.
Most importantly, the animal must not be exhibiting any symptom of an inherent ailment; for example: diarrhoea, inappetence, vomiting, dehydration, sneezing/coughing accompanied by a watery or thick yellow discharge.
Where should I look for a puppy?
I always advocate that you go to a shelter, where you would find a variety of puppies that have been abandoned or handed over by owners for adoption. If,
health guarantee. A healthy puppy should:
• Appear alert and energetic; not lethargic (tired)
• Be well fed, with a little fat covering the ribcage
Have a good coat, without dry flaky skin or bald patches
however, you prefer a purebred dog, ask veterinarians and breed clubs for advice on how to locate a reputable breeder. You must interview several breeders, and ask to see the puppy’s parents and the breeding facility. It is important to visit the facility to ensure that a limited number of puppies are raised in a sanitary, well-socialized environment.
Unfortunately, there are many puppy mills that sell poorly-socialized puppies.
Walk and run normally, without limping
Have no discharge from the eyes, nose or ears
Follow a tossed toy with its eyes
• Not cough, sneeze, or appear to have difficulty breathing
Turn to look at you when you clap or make a noise behind it.
Puppies should be comfortable when handled. Try holding the puppy and touching the ears, mouth, and paws. If the puppy be-
These puppies may develop health and behavioural problems over time, especially if they are products of incest. These puppies are often sold at pet stores, and when they become ill, they require costly treatment.
Buying a puppy from a pet store also limits your knowledge of the puppy’s initial living conditions, and you cannot see the puppy’s parents to ensure they are in good health and are well socialized.
How do I check a puppy’s physical health?
Most breeders and some shelters would provide you with paperwork that the puppy has been examined by a veterinarian: has been examined, treated for parasites, and has received at least the first round of vaccines. Many breeders may also provide you with a
comes aggressive, or struggles to get away, it might not be the kind of dog that would snuggle with you on the couch, or allow you to trim its nails. Choosing a healthy puppy with a good disposition would increase your chances of raising a dog that would be a great fit for your household, and be your best friend for years to come!
We will continue this discussion next week.
“This is a
…labels party as
Ihopeless party” – Jagdeo on AFC
being “worse than PNC”
n a recent critique of opposition politics, Vice President (VP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo delivered a scathing assessment of Alliance for Change (AFC) Leader Nigel Hughes, describing his position within the party as riddled with unresolved issues and poor leadership.
During his weekly press conference on Thursday last, Jagdeo accused the AFC of being "even worse than the PNC," citing their lack of commitment and alleged dishonesty during their time in Government.
Jagdeo singled out Nigel Hughes, whom he sarcastically referred to as a "rising star," for his perceived inability to address critical matters. He questioned Hughes' role in the controversial 2016 agreement with ExxonMobil, saying that Hughes prioritised his client's interests over the country's.
According to the VP, Hughes has left key questions about his involvement unanswered, including the financial benefits accrued from these engagements.
“They tried to promote him as the savior of the opposition, et cetera. He has a long track record of, I don't want to say wickedness, but unscrupulous activities.
He was right in the centre of the AFC in their disastrous period in Government. He was in the middle of the engagements on Exxon, the negotiations. Now, on all of these projects, they don't have any position. This is a hopeless party,” he said.
Hughes, was also criticised for his inconsistent stance on the rigging attempt of the 2020 General and Regional Elections. The VP pointed out that Hughes is yet to issue a formal apology for his party's role in the electoral chaos.
Jagdeo further lambasted Hughes for defending some of the most contentious decisions of the APNU/AFC Coalition Government, including the layoff of sugar workers, the removal of the $10,000 schoolchildren grant, and the discontinuation of the joint services bonus.
In a bold statement at one of AFC’s weekly press conference, Hughes had declared that the AFC stands firmly by its actions during the tumultuous aftermath of Guyana’s 2020 elections, and has nothing to apologise for.
During the 2020 elections the AFC was a member of the APNU/ AFC then coalition Government, which faced massive criticism for undermining the electoral pro-
cess. For five months following the March 2 elections, the APNU/AFC Coalition employed various delay tactics, including filing multiple court cases to stall the official declaration of results, which were ultimately confirmed through a CARICOM-led national recount.
False narratives
Commenting in Hughes’ ongoing insistence that the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) was wrong in ruling that 33 votes constituted a majority of the 65-seat parliament in the no-confidence motion, Jagdeo stated “I can go through the track record, his track record…until now, he argues that the CCJ is wrong. From now, more and more people think, as he's being exposed, how mediocre he is now, because people had this impression of him that was like all erudite and sophisticated but now people recognise him for what he is”.
“He says the CCJ is wrong. 34 must be the majority of 65. Still digs in on this as recent as a couple weeks ago. Defends their lack of adherence to the Constitution in the no confidence motion. When it's clear what should have applied for anyone, any right-thinking Guyanese,” he said.
Jagdeo also accused Hughes
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
of spreading false narratives to fuel political divisions. Referring to Hughes’ claim that 1,200 Afro-Guyanese youths were unalive [killed] under the PPP/C Administration, Jagdeo called the statement "a blatant lie."
In defending his claim, Hughes stated recently, “I’ve been practicing law for 37 years, and I believe the number I gave is accurate.” Jagdeo countered this, arguing that Hughes’ data was baseless and intended to manipulate public perception.
“The number he has and the number he gave, 1,200. So, somebody needs to say, just release the
“Leave distractors alone; we are here to build...
When given a chance, residents meanwhile raised issues that ranged from the need for increased street lighting, to the need to upgrade the Company Road Primary school with one teacher raising concerns about overcrowding and substandard infrastructure. A call was also made for the Government to provide support to a Buxton youth club encountering hurdles using the facility of Tipperary Hall.
Abigail John, the owner
of Buxtonian based Propa Local Wines, made an appeal for a factory to be built in Buxton that would not only boost the community’s ability to churn out value added produce, but also provide employment.
“Beside me is Dixie’s from Dixie’s Cream Liqueur. Both of us have been certified by the Bureau of Standards. We have at least 10 employees. Everyday people come to our establishment for employment.”
“We’re seeking a factory for Buxton, so we can employ more Buxtonians and grow our business more. We represent Guyana through all the regions. So that’s what we’re seeking, as well as a bill board,” John said.
Chairman of the Buxton/ Friendship Grantee CoOp Leroy Hamer meanwhile heaped praise on the Ministry of Agriculture and subject Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, for the work done on improving Drainage and
number. Of course, he doesn't have the number. The people he defended, he said, he came up with, this is the science of the AFC. I have the numbers because I defended a number of criminals over the 37 years that I have practiced law”.
“Stabroek News did a studied piece and showed that 400 people were killed over that period and that many of them were policemen killed by the bandits. Some of the bandits themselves killed by police. Some were victims and a few people didn't even die who was on that list that they circulated. So, and that it was Indo- Guyanese and Afro- Guyanese on the list. Maybe a hundred and something of the list of the 400 were IndoGuyanese,” the VP expressed.
According to Jagdeo, the AFC’s track record of dishonesty and mismanagement is unparalleled.
In November, Jagdeo called on the leaders of opposition parties to engage transparently with the press and the public, emphasising that accountability is essential in fostering unity and progress in Guyana.
On this point, he stated emphatically, “The public deserves the truth, and it’s time for these leaders to face the reality of their lies.” (G1)
Irrigation in the community.
Village economy Hamer also called on the Government to send a team in to get an update on Buxton’s efforts to develop its village economy and chart a way forward. President Ali mean-
while assured the residents that their concerns, whether they relate to unemployment or land, will be addressed.
The President promised to help all willing youths with skills training and in the case of the construction industry, to connect them with jobs or even equipment to make blocks for the sector. In the case of land, the President pointed to Minister Rodrigues presence as the villagers’ cue to have their land queries addressed. (G3)
Peeking into…
…the budget
Well, it’s that time of the year again: with our New Year excesses hopefully worn off with regular infusions of our hangover concoctions, we’re about to be regaled with another record-making Budget Speech this coming Friday!!
The last one clocked in at five hours and forty-three minutes, and your Eyewitness was told it was a record!! Well, it certainly beat the longest speech ever at the UN –made by Fidel Castro in 1960: that was a mere four hours and twenty-nine minutes!! But, in Fidel’s defence, he was speaking off the cuff!!
Since the custom is to give each speaker 15 minutes, Fidel had informed the Assembly, “Although we have been given the reputation of speaking at great length, the Assembly need not worry. We shall do our best to be brief.” Imagine if he wasn’t “brief”!! In 1986, he went on for seven hours, ten minutes at the Communist Party Congress in Havana!!
Anyhow, this being an “Elections Budget”, your Eyewitness expects Ashni Singh might just give Fidel a run for his money. He just hopes the rest of the MPs arrange for water refills!!
The last Budget had set another record, this time for size: it was our very first TRILLION-DOLLAR Budget!! Impressive, innit?? With budgets, governments like to focus on how much they spend – the expenditure. This, of course, is geared towards improving the lives of the citizenry - so the custom is ”bigger is better”!! The 2024 budget detailed total expenditures of G$1,145 billion, which worked out to US$5.5 billion!! Now, no matter how you parse that, it works out to a whole lotta dough for a country that just the other day was walking around with a begging bowl, after Burnham and the PNC did a number on the economy!!
This year, your Eyewitness suspects, Budget expenditure might just be DOUBLE last year’s!! After all, we’ll be including about $420 billion (US$2 billion) just for the Gasto-Energy project!! And since the electorate quickly gets used to the new scale of doing things, Government would have to be responsive to the jaded eye-rolls and “so what else is new” shrugs!! Expect big bucks on all the now usual infrastructural developments – bridges, roads, etc, etc.
Now, if you’re spending big, the Budget’s gotta say where the money’s coming from - especially since the VP said they’ll leave more money in your pockets by slashing taxes. While we’re all focusing on the Oil Revenues, US$2.6B was collected in 2024 when total revenue was estimated at G$94B (US$4.5 billion). This produced a budget deficit of G$199B (US$1B) which we had to borrow. So, this year, if we spend more, we’ll borrow more?? No problem!! The more money you got, the more people will lend!!
See you this Friday!!
…political ambitions
Guyanese are a fascinating people. Imagine, in the last elections, one moneybag who made his money in rice, and was looking to get into hemp, backed a bunch of young professionals to launch a party, and collected a TOTAL of 144 votes!! Now, this means that not even the families –let alone the friends – of the sixty-five candidates on the ballotvoted for them!! That’s COLD, eh?? But that’s politics in a society like ours.
Your Eyewitness was quite bemused when an individual announced she was withdrawing from contesting this year’s elections - which she’d evidently entered last year!! Now, your Eyewitness had seen letters from the individual as a PR person for GuySuCo, but running for the presidency without an organization?? Are Guyanese so daft they feel they can run just as a Presidential candidate??
She mentioned her relatives several times – so your Eyewitness hopes it was they who told her to chuck it in!! If friends and family can’t tell you about your (say) breath, who will??
…Dante’s Inferno
We all heard about Los Angeles housing Hollywood celebrities who forget to separate fact (in their lives) from fiction (in their scripts) and wallow in decadence!! Fires just destroyed 12,000 of their homes.
Govt/LNDCH4 dispute on GtE Project
Contractor seeking compensation for additional stabilisation work in 2nd claim
Contractor for the highly-anticipated Gas-toEnergy (GtE) Project, Lindsayca CH4 Guyana Inc (LNDCH4 Guyana), is looking for financial compensation for additional works that had to be done to stabilise the project site.
The Joint Venture formed by United States (US)-based companies, Lindsayca and CH4, was awarded the US$759 million contract in November 2022 to build the 300-megawatt (MW) Combined Cycle Power Plant and a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD) – key components of the GtE Project.
However, General
Manager (GM) of LNDCH4 Guyana, Humberto Lopez, told reporters during a tour on Friday that when they received the prepared construction site, it was not to the specified stabilisation requirement and they had to undertake that addition work. In fact, at the project site, there were huge mounds of sand.
“That sand, we use to stabilise the site… We had initial site conditions that we had to reach. So, [to reach] that site condition, we had to do it… We had to bring a huge amount of sand just to prepare the site to start doing the job,” Lopez explained.
It was previously report-
ed that LNDCH4 Guyana has filed claims over these additional soil stabilisation works that they had to do.
According to the GM, the claim, which is to the tune some US$50 million, is “… for extra job that we had to do to prepare the land.”
Only last month, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo confirmed that GtE had a claim relating to the soil condition. However, he noted that those claims would have to go through a technical process to determine whether they are jus-
tified or not.
“I don’t want to comment on those because those matters could end up in arbitration. [But it] has to go through a technical process when they submit their claims… We have an engineering company that oversees the contract and they would have to give their views on the claim – whether it merits addressing or not,” VP Jagdeo stated during a December 27 press conference.
General Manager of LNDCH4 Guyana, Humberto Lopez
Mounds of sand being used for soil stabilisation at the Gas-to-Energy project site at Wales
Maduro’s existential threat continues
It was not by accident that, three days before his scheduled January 10th inauguration, Maduro announced he was scheduling the election of the governor of Essequibo. His referendum of Dec 2, 2023 had approved the “annexation” of the Essequibo, and on 21 March 2024, his National Assembly had unanimously created the state of “Guayana Esequiba”, to be run by a Maduro-appointed authority until the election of its governor.
Knowing his inauguration would precipitate internal and external protests because of its illegitimacy, he again hoped to raise patriotic emotions over the Essequibo in the citizenry and the critical military forces, targeted by the Opposition.
The January 9th Opposition protests were not as successful as expected; perhaps influenced by the Essequibo dog whistle, but primarily because of Maduro’s mobilisation of the “organs of integral direction” (ODIS). This structure centralises political power, the Armed Forces, the Bolivarian National Militia, police forces and community groups ostensibly to “maintain order”, but ostensively to subdue the population and stifle any expression of dissent. Maduro also organized counter-protests, and was duly sworn-in by his ally, National Assembly leader Jorge Rodríguez.
Edmundo González, stand-in Opposition Leader for the charismatic Maria Machado, who had been banned from running in last July 28 elections, has been declared “president-elect” by the US in view of their voting machines’ tally sheets showing he had won the elections. Machado’s Electoral Council never released theirs, as had been done in previous elections.Gonzalez had been received by President Biden, and had promised to show up in Venezuela to be inaugurated, but this never happened.
Machado did lead some protests inside Venezuela, and was briefly detained after one.
Directly after Maduro’s inauguration, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken reiterated US support for Gonzalez, and announced an upping of the bounty on the heads of Maduro and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, from US$15M to US$25M, on drug trafficking charges. They offered a US$15 million reward for Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López, and imposed sanctions on “eight Maduro-aligned individuals… including members of the security forces and political figures”, bringing the number of these up to 187 persons.
Similar actions were yesterday taken by Canada, the EU, and the UK as were taken in 2019 for Juan Guaido, which were then of no avail. Most notably, however, the Biden Administration left untouched the license allowing Chevron to extract and ship Venezuelan heavy crude to the US, which would have been the only action to have had a materially adverse impact on the Maduro administration.
With Trump’s inauguration set for January 20, with the fierce anti-Maduro figure of Marco Rubio leading the State Department thereafter, and with Rep Mike Waltz as his National Security Advisor, it is hard to imagine Washington taking a soft stance towards Maduro.
Waltz had sponsored the ironically-named bipartisan BOLIVAR Act: Banning Operations and Leases with Illegitimate Venezuelan Authoritarian Regime, approved by the house and now before the Senate. Trump had signalled his position when he announced his support for Machado and “President-elect” Gonzales as the protests unfolded in Venezuela.
However, Trump is himself apparently facing pressure from oil execs to maintain Biden’s policy of granting concessions to Maduro via licences to secure oil imports from Venezuela. This would be the litmus test of even matching his failed 2019 pro-Guaido strategy. There is also the question of Venezuelan migrants, whom Trump is committed to returning to Venezuela, and for which he would need a quid pro quo from Maduro. All of this now brings us to what should be our response to a third-term Maduro.
The day after Maduro’s announcement regarding a governor for Essequibo, the Guyana Government expressed “grave concern over Venezuela once again violating the Argyle Agreement and the Dec 1, 2023 order of the ICJ.” This is water on a duck’s back. We must recognise the realities of the situation: it is quite unlikely that even Trump would move beyond sanctions at best, as he focuses on China, the Middle East, Russia, Greenland, Canada, and Mexico.
Our Essequibo would remain a low-hanging fruit for Maduro, and even for any possible successor from the Venezuelan Opposition. Our only recourse is to continue strategically augmenting our physical and manpower capabilities. While we may not be able to defeat Venezuela’s far larger military on our own, at a minimum, we can make them think twice by waging the type of asymmetric warfare we have seen deployed with success in other theatres. We have recommended establishing a military base in northern Essequibo. Brazil protects our southern, Rupununi, flank.
Over 5,000 Guyanese earn Master’s degrees through GOAL; 378 secure PhDs
… overall, 21,436 of 29,758 recipients are women
Some 5,602 Guyanese, including teachers have achieved master’s degrees and 378 have earned PhDs through the Government’s Online Academic Learning (GOAL) initiative, marking a major milestone in the professional development of educators and the enhancement of the nation’s professional workforce.
This was revealed by Education Minister Priya Manickchand during the Ministry’s End- of- Year press conference held on Friday.
The 5,980 individuals, who secured Master’s Degrees and PhDs are among some 29,758 Guyanese citizens granted GOAL scholarships since Government took office in August 2020.
According to Manickchand, this amount surpasses the initial pledge of 20,000 scholarships outlined in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s manifesto within its first five years in office.
“We have so far granted 29,758 scholarships for Guyanese people, young and old, but mostly young, to study in foreign universities at no cost to themselves because the Government in Guyana is paying for it. They are on degree programmes, master’s programmes, and PhDs. They’re doing certificates and they’re doing postgrads. And if you look at this regional breakdown, you’ll see that it’s not Georgetown people alone studying,” the Minister disclosed.
“814 from Region One who otherwise could not have access to a foreign university to be able to study for their degrees and master’s and PhDs. 2,702 from Region Two, 4,431 from Region Three, 13,002 from Regions Four and One. 842 from Region Five, Two,983 from Region Six, 918 from Region Seven, 605 from
Region Eight, 700 from Region Nine and 1,761 from Region 10…. We are not people who find reasons why things can’t happen. We try to make sure we give opportunities and, of course, people have to avail themselves of those opportunities,” she went on to state.
Based on statistics provided by GOAL, scholarships to individuals from the ten administrative regions continues to increase yearly, with 6,280 scholarships awarded in 2021, 7,410 in 2022, 7,752 in 2023 and a massive 8,316 in 2024.
Notably, 5,602 earn ed SCQF Level 6 certificates, 1,312 copped General Educational Development (GEDs), 191 earned Foundation Diplomas, 3 for Undergraduate Certificate, 856 for Associate Degrees, 6,571 copped Bachelor’s, four for Postgraduate
Certificate and 920 persons earned Postgraduate Diplomas.
Following her announcement on scholarships awarded by programme-level, Manickchand disclosed that a total of 21,436 of the scholarship awardees are women while 8,322 are men.
“The bigger story on the GOAL scholarship is that, and if you look at the gender breakdown, and I did it deliberately, 21,436 of these scholarship awardees are women. Some of whom are home looking after their children while their children are young, preparing themselves for the workforce with degrees and mas-
ter’s when these children start going to school. And 8,322 men who didn’t have to leave their jobs to come and study. They can stay working to look after their families as they upgrade and upskill themselves” she said.
In 2024, the Guyana Government approved almost 8000 Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) schol-
arships, representing the Administration’s continued efforts to ensure the country’s workforce and populace is better educated and skilled. Government has been implementing a number of additional initiatives as it continues to invest in education throughout the country. It was only in March 2024 that the administration launched the “GuyanaCoursera Platform” initiative which will see approximately 50,000 persons benefiting from training in a number of areas across various Ministries countrywide as part of Government’s expansive national training initiative. Additionally, Government commenced its Student Loan WriteOff Programme to potentially benefit over 13,000 Guyanese who have $11 billion in student loan debt. The Administration has also reiterated its commitment to improving education delivery with a total budget of $135.2 billion. (G1)
Ravi Dev
Education Minister Priya Manickchand during the Ministry’s end-of-year press conference last Friday
The first set of Chinese indentured immigrants arrived in Guyana on January 12, 1853. They came as a form of cheap labour to replace the freed slaves.
According to the records, plantation owners in Guyana began expressing interest in having Chinese labourers from the onset of emancipation but recruitment formally began in 1851. Because of the long travel distance from China, at first Chinese were not recruited since it was cheaper to transport Indians.
While it cost a planter 13 British pounds to transport an Indian labourer from Calcutta or Madras, the cost was 15 pounds to transport a Chinese immigrant from any of the Chinese ports. But because of the growing need for labourers for the sugar estates, some planters decided to recruit Chinese especially during the period between 1848 and 1851 when Indian immigration was suspended.
In August 1851, the British Guiana Government agreed to pay the planters a bounty of $100 for each Chinese landed in the Colony. The following month George Booker, one of the sugar estate owners, arranged for the first shipment of Chinese to work as indentured labourers.
The 115 men and 39 boys who were recruited were transported from the port of Amoy on the Lord Elgin. The ship departed on July 23, 1852 and after a journey of 177 days arrived in Georgetown on January 17, 1853. On this difficult voyage 69 of the passengers died.
Another ship, the Glentanner, chartered by Hyde, Hodge & Co, left Amoy with 305 men and boys and arrived in Georgetown on January 12, 1853. A total of 51 passengers died on the journey. The same Company recruited another 352 men and boys later in the year and they were shipped from Amoy on the Samuel Boddington on November 25, 1852 and arrived in Georgetown on March 4, 1853, after a voyage which lasted only 98 days during which 52 passengers died. (On this journey, the Chinese mutinied and almost managed to take control of the ship).
Most of the Chinese who arrived during this period were assigned to estates in West Demerara.
The British Guiana Government expressed concerns about the physical quality of the Chinese who were recruited and also about the large number of boys who were apparently passed off as adults. Subsequently, the Government withdrew the bounty payment to the recruiting planters on August 1, 1853.
Earlier that year, James White, who had been the recruiting agent for the British Guiana Government in India, was appointed as Emigration Agent for the British West Indies in China. However, he was dismissed in June of the following year mainly because he failed to recruit any Chinese labourer.
In 1853 also, the British Government had decided to support a government-sponsored recruitment programme, but by May 1854 the British Guiana Government decided to halt immigration from China due to the transportation costs which had increased by over 66 per cent and also because of the failure to recruit women.
Chinese women began arriving in 1860, but in small numbers. The period from 1860 to 1866 saw a relatively large influx of immigrants, bringing the local Chinese population to
a peak of 10,022 in 1866. Subsequently only two boats arrived with Chinese immigrants, one in 1874 and the other in 1879. After this Chinese immigrants came of their own free will and at their own expense.
The Chinese proved to be good workers on the estates to which they were indentured for a five-year period. The distribution of Chinese labourers to the sugar plantations in the three counties of Berbice, Demerara, and Essequibo was made by the Immigration Agent-General, who based his decisions on the quotas submitted by the plantation owners several months previously. Families were kept together in the distribution.
Guyana’s first President was a Chinese man named Arthur Chung.
For the entire period of 1853 to 1879, a total of 13,541 Chinese landed in Guyana. (Excerpts from guyana.org)
20 CHINESE ARRIVAL DAY
Longevity Noodles
Ingredients
• 8 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 pound dried thin egg noodles or spaghetti
Sauce
• 3 cups chicken broth or stock
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or to taste
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
them. Rinse the noodles repeatedly in cold water and drain thoroughly. Divide the noodles equally among soup bowls.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 4 teaspoons water
• White or black pepper to taste
For Poached Eggs, Optional
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• Garnish: 3 green onions (spring onions, finely chopped)
Directions
1. Bring the salted water to a boil and parboil the noodles, using chopsticks to separate
2. Bring the broth or stock to a boil over medium heat. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and pepper. Give the cornstarch and water a quick re-stir and stir it in.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the beaten egg, pouring it slowly through the tines of a fork and stirring rapidly in one direction for about 1 minute.
4. Pour the hot broth over the noodles.
Garnish with the chopped ham and green onion.
To Include Poached Eggs:
5. Use the wok to poach the eggs.
6. The poached eggs are placed on the noodles and the sauce is poured over. Garnish with the green onion and the sliced ham as in the recipe above.
Spring Roll
FILLING
• 1 tbsp oil
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped or minced
• 400 g / 13 oz minced meat
• 6 dried shiitake mushrooms soaked in boiling water OR 8 fresh
• 1 1/2 cups shredded carrot
• 1 1/2 cups bean sprouts
• 1 1/2 cups (packed) shredded green cabbage
• 1 tsp cornflour/cornstarch
• 1 1/2 tbsp Oyster Sauce
• 2 tsp soy sauce
SPRING ROLLS
• 15 – 20 spring roll wrappers
• 2 tsp cornflour (for sealing rolls)
• 1 tbsp water (for sealing rolls)
• Oil for frying
SWEET AND SOUR SAUCE
• 2 tsp cornflour/cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 2 tsp soy sauce
Instructions
FILLING
Heat oil in a skillet or wok over high heat. Add garlic, stir quickly, then add meat. Cook, breaking it up as you go. Add carrot, bean sprouts, cabbage and mushrooms. Cook for 3 minutes or until vegetables are wilted. Add
cornflour, soy sauce and Oyster sauce, cook for 1 minute until the liquid is gone. The Filling should not be watery, it should be kind of sticky.
SPRING ROLL Mix cornflour and water in a small bowl (for sealing the rolls). Carefully peel off one spring roll wrapper, keep the others covered under a damp tea towel. Place a very heaped spoon of filling on the bottom. Roll up halfway, fold sides in, then finish rolling. Use cornflour sludge to seal.
Heat oil and fry spring rolls for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
SWEET AND SOUR SAUCE
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to simmer, stirring regularly, then simmer until it thickens to taste (about 35 minutes).
CHINESE ARRIVAL DAY
Stir Fried Tofu with Rice Kung Pao Chicken
Ingredients
For the tofu:
• 100 gms tofu
• 2 tsp chili paste
• 1 Lemon grass stick
• 2 Shallots , chopped
• 1 inch ginger , chopped
• 2 tsp soya sauce
• 3 Garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 inch red onion , chopped
• 2 tsp honey
• Handful of coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 tsp refined oil
• Rice
For the fried rice:
• Carrots, chopped
• Spring onions, chopped
• To flavor salt & pepper
• 1 Fresh red chili, chopped
• 1 Ginger, chopped
• 2 tsp soya sauce
• 1/2 Lemon (squeezed)
• Handful of coriander , chopped
• 1 tsp olive oil
How to Make Stir Fried Tofu
Drizzle refined oil in a preheated pan and add chopped tofu and stir well. Then add all other ingredients and stir well.
For the fried rice:
Drizzle olive oil in a preheated pan and add carrots, spring onions, ginger and salt & pepper. Then add rice, fresh red chili, lemon juice and soya sauce and stir all together. Add some chopped coriander leaves and cook for 5-7 minutes.
INGREDIENTS
Chicken:
• 28 ounces (800g) boneless/skinless chicken breast cut into 1 inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon shaoxing wine or dry sherry
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch / corn flour
Sauce:
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken stock (or broth) -- water can be used
• 5 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Chinese black vinegar (or substitute good-quality balsamic vinegar)
• 2 tablespoon Chinese Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 teaspoon dark soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch / corn flour
Stir Fry:
• 4 tablespoons cooking oil divided
• 1 1/2 tablespoons garlic (4-6 cloves)
• 1 tablespoon ginger
• 1/2 red bell pepper (capsicum) seeded and diced
• 1/2 green bell pepper (capsicum) seeded and diced
• 8-10 dried chilies cut into ½-inch pieces (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns
lightly toasted and ground
• 4 green onion / scallion stems cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup roasted/unsalted peanuts
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil optional
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Combine all ingredients for the chicken in a shallow bowl; cover and marinate for 10 minutes (if time allows).
2. Whisk sauce ingredients together until sugar dissolves; set aside.
3. Heat a large skillet, pan or wok over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil, allow to heat up, then add marinated chicken. Fry chicken for 3-4 minutes while occasionally stirring, until edges are browned.
Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add remaining cooking oil into the same pan/wok. Stir in garlic, ginger, chili diced peppers (capsicums) and Sichuan peppercorns and stir fry for 1 minute.
5. Give the prepared sauce a mix, then pour it into the pan and bring it to a boil while stirring.
6. Once it begins to thicken slightly, add chicken back into the pan/wok and mix all of the ingredients through the sauce until the chicken is evenly coated and sauce has thickened, (about 2 minutes).
7. Stir in green onions, peanuts and sesame oil. Toss well and continue to cook for a further 2 minutes to infuse all of the flavours together.
Maha Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest public gathering and collective act of faith anchored in Hindu mythology, is to be held this year at Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, India from 13 January to 26 February. An epic pilgrimage that brings together millions of devotees, ascetics, seekers and tourists from all over the world, Mahal Kumbh this year is an extraordinary
event taking place after 144 years. The event affords an opportunity to experience first-hand India’s rich spiritual traditions and cultural diversity, along with the strides made by a vibrant, plurilateral but inclusive democracy embedded in the philosophy of Vasudhaiv Kutumbkam, or ‘World is One Family’.
Kumbh Mela is held four times every 12 years
in one of four cities of India: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. Maha Kumbh is, however, held after every 144 years at Prayagraj.
‘Kumbha’, a Sanskrit word for ‘pitcher’, symbolizes the essence of universe and confluence of all cultures. According to the Puranas, the world’s oldest religious literature, Kumbh Mela derives its origins from the cosmic battle waged between Gods
and Demons after Samudra Manthan (churning of the sea) to attain the elixir of immortality, during which drops of nectar fell at these four locations: Prayagraj, Hardwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. Due to the confluence of the sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati, Prayagraj is considered the holiest of allthese locations.
Kumbh Mela includes the sacred bathing ritual, or Shahi Snan, to be done at a predetermined time and place. The ceremony is rooted in the belief that holy waters cleanse all sins and enable attainment of ‘Moksha’ - liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
The 45 days of cultural extravaganza would also feature devotional and spiritual sessions and discourses, art exhibitions, and yoga camps. Kumbh Mela also brings together holy men, ascetics, saints and the sadhus, who have renounced the worldly life and pleasures to follow an exclusive life of religion. These sadhus belong to reli-
gious organisations, ashrams and akhadas, and among them are women ascetics, or Sadhvis. As the upholders of tradition, there are 13 akhadas whose presidents are the first to take the dip in the holy river.
Maha Kumbh 2025 is expected to be attended by over 350 million visitors, and feature sacred traditions, spirituality, and state-of-the-art technological advancements such as special cyber security arrangements using print, digital and social media platforms and deployment of mobile cyber team. Immersive digital experiences await devotees, with 360-degree virtual reality stalls showcasing major events and a fleet of 2,000 drones narrating legendary tales of ‘Prayag Mahatmyam’ and ‘Samudra Manthan’ to create a magical spectacle. City of Maha Kumbh would also have state-of-the-art facilities, infrastructure, and enhanced security arrangements including AI powered cameras and underwater drones.
Online bookings in regard to accommodation would be facilitated from January 10 to February 28. Special focus is being placed on ensuring seamless connectivity for visitors, with expansion of railways, highways, waterways and airports. Eco-friendly sanitation facilities would be upholding environmental standards, and there would be adequate facilities for water, electricity, etc. With special provisions being made for international visitors, Maha Kumbh 2025 is expected to be a global celebration of an exotic mix of spirituality, culture, sustainability and modernity.
This year, incredible India beckons you to visit; a transcendental experience awaits you. The High Commission of India would be very happy to extend assistance and facilitation to those who are interested in participating in Maha Kumbh 2025. For more details on Maha Kumb 2025, please visit: https://kumbh.gov.in/ and https://pib.gov.in
No tolerance for persons leaking private data of individuals – VP
…says strong penalties will be dished out for data protection breaches
Whether it’s the data collected from the $100,000 cash grant process or medical data, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has indicated a zero tolerance for any breaches to the Data Protection Act and has assured that private data of citizens will be safe.
During his most recent press conference, Jagdeo addressed one of the more prevalent fears around the $100,000 cash grant distribution… that of data breaches. Acknowledging that the programme’s rollout has not been without its flaws, Jagdeo nevertheless assured that persons should not be worried about their data in the hands of the Government.
“Some of them deliberately stoke… in many cases bad planning on the ground, to distribute the cheques. And has led to some difficulties among people. And that’s something we need to work on improving as a Government. And a lot of the officers who are doing this, need to do this with a bit more heart. They deliberately stoke skepticism about it.”
“Because they want to
do that for political purposes. They think by creating an issue around its distribution, that you can negate the benefits of people receiving the grant. And somehow convert that, to a political benefit. Its all-public data. I don’t see a single bit of information there that anyone can use,” the Vice President said.
The Vice President assured that there will be zero tolerance and strong penalties for any unauthorised release of private data. He pointed out that this applies for any data, whether its
data collected from the cash grant registration, medical data or data collected from the safe country programme.
“Nevertheless, the Ministry shall not and will not release that data to anyone. And that is why we passed the Data Protection Act. Because not just there for public information generally, it is going to be important for when, with all of these cameras that we’re putting up around the country.”
“That, along with the Privacy Act, will be important to safeguard people’s rights in the country. Also, the programme to develop electronic medical records. We don’t want people’s medical records to be available to anyone. There would be strong penalties,” Jagdeo added.
In August 2023, the Data Protection (Amendment) Bill 2023 was passed in the National Assembly to protect the privacy of personal data. The Act contains stiff penalties for any breaches by data controllers, that is the persons who determine the manner and purpose of which personal data is processed.
Additionally, it is a criminal offence for such officers to operate without being registered or without nominating a representative, carrying a fine of $10 million- or two months’ imprisonment. Like data controllers, data processors must also be registered and when necessary, appoint a representative established in Guyana. A data processor is a natural or legal person, public authority, agency or other
body which processes personal data on behalf of the data controller.
When he presented the bill for its final reading in Parliament, Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall had noted that this piece of updated legislation had been long overdue, given the shift to e-governance and digitalisation.
The Data Protection Bill was created to regulate the collection, keeping, process-
ing, use and dissemination of personal data. It sets a statutory framework, moving away from the current construct of the country’s legislation, which does not safeguard against rights to data protection.
Then, in 2024, the Government passed the Open Data Bill No. 13 of 2024, which required that public authorities maintain an electronic data registry containing all data assets created, collected, under the control or direction of, or maintained by that public authority.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips had explained that the Bill would complement the Data Protection Act and the Digital Identity Card Act, which were both passed the previous year. (G3)
Contractor seeking compensation...
Extra stabilisation
Meanwhile, Lopez explained that this claim for the extra stabilisation work was filed alongside another US$50 million claim that LNDCH4 Guyana has made. The Guyana Government and the GtE contractor are already at loggerheads over that initial claim by the company and the timeline for the completion of the project.
There was a three-month delay in other components of the project that would affect LNDCH4-Guyana’s delivery of the power plant in accordance with the contractual timelines. While the government has extended the deadline by three months, the contractor is not satisfied and wants more time.
In addition, LNDCH4Guyana is making financial claims to the tune of US$50 million, stating that the delays would cost the company millions in liquidated damages. The Guyana Government has already rejected this financial claim thus resulting in the contractor activating a dispute resolution mechanism.
This resulted in the establishment of a Dispute Avoidance/Adjudication Board (DAAB) to settle the matter between the two sides.
According to VP Jagdeo, the parties have already made oral and written submissions to the three-member panel at a recent hearing.
“They [first] had to make written submissions to the DAAB. Then they had in Miami, the presentations by our lawyers and [now] they have, I think, the 15th of January to make some supplementary presentations,” Jagdeo had disclosed, adding that a ruling could be
made later this month.
“I think by the end of [this] month, they will rule on the matter. So, if the parties accept that, their claims can be settled – if they accept the ruling. If the parties decide not to [accept the ruling] then you go to full arbitration,” he stated.
The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration’s flagship GtE initiative is divided into five components: the pipeline from offshore production activities to Wales, then the building of power plant and NGL facilities, the transmission main to move power generated at the power plant, a new control centre at Eccles, East Bank Demerara and upgrading the national power grid.
While LNDCH4-Guyana was given the contract to build the two plants, the procurement and installation of the 225-km gas pipeline from the Wales project site to the offshore oil field is being executed by US oil major ExxonMobil Guyana, which is carrying out production activities in the Stabroek Block.
The installation of the US$1 billion pipeline also includes the upgrade of the roads to get to the site at Wales, the Material Offloading Facility (MOF) and site preparation for 100 acres as well as a lay-down yard – all undertaken by Exxon and subcontracted out. However, there were three-month delays in the handing over of two of these components to LNDCH4Guyana for them to start their work.
Based on the contract, LNDCH4-Guyana is required to deliver 228 MW of power with four gas turbines coming on stream at the end of 2024 at 57 MW each. To get the entire 300 MW, an-
other two steam turbines are expected by the end of 2025. However, the contractor wants to deliver the gas turbines until August 2025.
VP warns
The vice president had already warned that if the government wins the arbitration, then there would be liquidated damages if the contractor does not meet the April 2025 deadline to start delivering power.
“There is a delay, now because the site was handed over late… We said what we believe is justified is a threemonth extension to the contract. We offered that. The company doesn’t want that. They want more money… They’ve asked for a longer extension,” Jagdeo told reporters at a press conference back in September.
He added, “We have an arbitration now taking place and if we win the arbitration, they would have only by April to deliver this project. They have given a schedule which shows [project delivery] later in the year… We have only approved a three-month extension. So, if we win the arbitration and we stick with that schedule then there would be liquidated damages.”
But even as efforts are being taken to resolve this dispute, the Guyana Government has maintained that this issue would not impact the project and that work continue on the ground.
In fact, only Friday, Government signed a US$527 million loan agreement with the US EXIM (Export-Import) Bank to finance the highly anticipated GtE project, which will not only increase the country’s generation capacity with reliable power but also see electricity prices slashed by half. (G8)
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
Be proactive – Top Cop to Region 6 ranks
...as GPF continues to roll out 2022-2026 Strategic Plan
Police officers in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) have been urged to shift their focus to proactive crime prevention, as part of a transformative approach outlined by Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken.
During a meeting held Friday at the Central Police Station in New Amsterdam, Berbice, Commissioner Hicken and his Executive Leadership Team (ELT) emphasised the critical importance of preventing crime rather than solely reacting to it.
Deputy Commissioner Wendell Blanhum at the meeting, delivered a pointed message to the ranks, stating, “It’s always better to prevent a crime than to detect it.”
3
He encouraged officers to serve as vigilant guardians of their communities, ensuring justice is accessible to everyone.
“You are servants of the
people. Justice should be for all,” Blanhum emphasised.
Commissioner Hicken reinforced this proactive vision, urging officers to leave the confines of the
recording studios each valued at $39.3M to be built in 2025 …access to be free for local musicians
Strengthening the reach for musical art-
ists within Guyana, it has been revealed that three digital recording studios, valued at $39.3 million each, will be built this year in Regions Two, Three, and 10.
This information was revealed by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Charles Ramson, during his end-of-year press conference. The Ministry had advertised for bids in December 2024.
According to Ramson, a high focus will be placed on granting free access to these facilities, since the Ministry will be responsible for the maintenance of the facilities.
“It also has to be managed by the Ministry, so we undertake that responsibility every time we build a new facility,” he explained.
He also described a hypothetical situation of a person who would like to record music but lacked the funds to do so, to be able to reach their dreams.
“When you think about the guy or the girl in a bedroom who has a dream of becoming a star, but they don’t have the money, I don’t want to add more hurdles or burdens that create obstacles for them to have deferred or unrealised dreams.
What’s important is, as a Government, we recognise young people in this country are talented in many different areas,” he said.
He added that, similar to sports, where newly commissioned facilities are freely opened to teams, free recording opportunities will be provided to individuals.
“Just like we did for sports, we said no more fees, unless you’re hosting an event where you’re going to charge people to come in.
That’s a different situation because you’re making mon-
ey.”
With this, he emphasised the importance of encouraging young people to pursue their dreams.
“What we want is for young people—everyone, but particularly young people—to know that if they have that dream, they can pursue it. As a Government, we can’t take you to the Grammys; that’s not our job, but we can help you get off the ground and put you on the pathway by giving you the right kind of investment in terms of training, exposure, and support.”
According to Ramson, the Ministry has looked into the approach of creating awareness for talent since 2020 - creating platforms and opportunities for people to practice and refine their talents.
Theatre and Film
Meanwhile, theatre and film flourished in 2024 and are expected to thrive in 2025.
Individuals who placed well in the Guyana Prize for Literature competition were given the opportunity to write scripts and have their shows performed at the National Cultural Centre.
In fact, six plays were staged in 2024 through the Write to Stage programme.
“We said we wanted to bring the literary aspect to life, and the way to do that is through this Write to Stage programme. Once finalists are selected for the Guyana Prize for Literature competition, individuals involved in drama and theatre can take any finalist’s play, story, etc., and create a production out of it,” Ramson explained.
Additionally, similar to how “Bad Boys” actor Jacob Scipio visited Guyana in 2024, other international actors will be invited to
Guyana to enlighten and engage with local creatives.
“There were two film workshops last year— one involving actors from “Transporter”, and the other with Jacob Scipio, who starred in the Hollywood movie, “Bad Boys”. These workshops were successful, and this is something we intend to continue doing,” the Minister stated.
In addition, the Ministry has also completed a significant website to provide an online presence for Guyanese actors and creatives.
“We also completed the Cultural and Creative Industries Registry online platform, which will be launched in the next couple of months. This platform authenticates the work of individuals involved in the cultural and creative industries and helps promote them.”
The platform provides an online presence managed by the Ministry, authenticating their work and creating opportunities for private, international, or public collaborations. It allows creatives to showcase their work through pictures, videos, and links to platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube.
It also provides direct contact details for interested parties to reach out to them.
station and immerse themselves in the communities they serve.
“Police should not be staying at the stations no more,” he stressed. “No less than two police in the Enquiries Office; everybody else should be in the streets, in the communities talking and interacting with people.”
The Commissioner linked community partnerships to a significant reduction in serious crimes.
“With [community] partnerships, you should not have any robbery, you shouldn’t have any murder [and] you shouldn’t have any thieving,” he said, emphasising that close ties
their careers.
“Each and every person in this Force must develop themselves [academically, to advance in their career
with the public are vital for effective policing.
The importance of personal and professional development also featured prominently during the meeting. Deputy
Commissioner Ravindradat Budhram encouraged ranks to take full advantage of new opportunities within the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to enhance
as policemen/women],” he said. He reminded officers that discipline is key to success and upward mobility in their roles.
Deputy Commissioner Simon McBean echoed similar sentiments, citing the integration of technology within the Force.
“Embrace and make full use of the personal de-
velopment opportunities and the technological advancements ongoing within the Force,” he advised. “This will only make your policing lives easier.”
The Commissioner also issued clear directives to traffic and patrol ranks, emphasising the need for greater discipline and focus. He warned traffic ranks to desist from stopping individuals without wearing body cameras and instructed patrol ranks to redirect their attention to tackling guns and drugs, rather than engaging in traffic duties.
The meeting concluded on an inspiring note with the on-the-spot promotion of two ranks. Constable James and Lance Corporal Ward were elevated to the rank of Corporal in recognition of their exemplary service.
As Commissioner Hicken continues to roll out the Force’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, the focus remains on building a modern, proactive, and community-oriented police force.
Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson
Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken
Deputy Commissioner Wendell Blanhum
Deputy Commissioner Simon McBean
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12, 2025 |
Mandela Avenue fatal accident
Driver seeking bail adjustment to fulfill compensation agreement
Chris Sobers, the 22-year-old electrician who is charged with causing the death of 28-year-old Edward Solomon by dangerous driving in 2024, is seeking to redirect the $300,000 bail he has lodged towards a million-dollar compensation payment to the estate of the late Edward Solomon, in accordance with an agreement he has entered into with family members of the deceased.
When his request was ventilated in the Georgetown court of Chief Magistrate Fabayo Azore on Friday, it was revealed that Sobers had already paid $500,000 in this regard, and in order to complete the remaining $500,000 balance, he is proposing that the $300,000 bail posted in his name be transferred as partial payment.
If this arrangement is approved, it would leave
Sobers with a $200,000 outstanding balance to be paid to the estate of the late Edward Solomon; and he is promising to liquidate that sum by February 28, 2025.
Magistrate Azore explained that while Sobers’s request has been noted, such an arrangement would require consent from the in-
Vagrant denied bail for beer theft charge
Remanded: Dennis Prince
Dennis Prince, a 29-year-old vagrant known around the Stabroek, Georgetown area for doing on-demand work, appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday, accused of stealing five cases of Banks Beer, valued at $31,000, from Harleen Blair on Dec. 8, 2024, in the Central Block area of Donkey City, Georgetown. During the proceedings, the prosecution objected to bail, arguing that Prince has no fixed address, mak -
ing it difficult to locate him if released.
Prince, however, attempted to assure the court of his availability: “I’s always be on the market 24 hours. It wouldn’t be hard to find me, mommy,” he said, referring to Magistrate Azore.
Despite his assurance, the Magistrate denied bail, citing her concerns about his lack of a permanent residence.
Prince is set to return to court on February 14 for the continuation of the case.
dividual who had initially posted the bail; because a bailor is typically refunded his bail only after a case has been concluded.
Describing the request as unusual, she said it is a “tricky situation” that requires careful consideration. Nevertheless, she would review the matter to determine whether it could be accommodated.
Sobers’s decision to pay compensation to the estate of the late Edward Solomon stems from a fatal accident that occurred at Mandela Avenue, Georgetown on April 4, 2024.
As per police investigations, Sobers was driving motorcar PAF4593 when he made a left turn onto Freeman Street, Georgetown without ensuring the path was clear. This manoeuvre placed his vehicle in the path of motorcycle CJ 9016, which Solomon was driving, and the resultant collision caused severe injuries to both Sobers and Solomon.
They were both rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) for treatment. Solomon was dis-
charged, but was readmitted on May 28, 2024 after he began experiencing complications. He succumbed to his injuries on May 30, 2024.
Following Solomon’s death, Sobers was charged with causing death by dangerous driving, and during his initial court appearance in June 2024, was placed on bail in the sum of $300,000.
One condition of his being granted bail required that he report to the Kaneville Grove Police Station on the first Friday of each month.
Sobers’s agreement to compensate the estate of Edward Solomon with $1,000,000 represents an effort to bring resolution to the matter. However, with $500,000 already paid, the court would have to determine how best to handle Sobers’s request for the bail to be applied towards the compensation.
Sobers is scheduled to return to court on February 28, when further decisions regarding the compensation payments and the bail adjustment are expected to be made.
Police nab Timehri man with 12g marijuana
A28-year-old Timehri North, East Bank Demerara (EBD), resident, identified as Adrian Stoll, was arrested Friday night after police discovered 12 grams of marijuana in his possession during a routine stop and search.
Police reports state that the arrest occurred around 21:30h. in Timehri North when ranks on patrol stopped a white Toyota Allion, registration number PAG 3507, for inspection.
Stoll, who was driving the vehicle, exhibited suspicious behaviour, prompting a search of both the vehicle and his person.
During the search, police found several small Ziplock bags containing cannabis concealed in Stoll’s right pants pocket. The substances, identified as a mixture of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be marijuana, were confiscated. Stoll was immediately informed of the offence, cautioned, and arrested. He was taken to the Timehri Police Station, where the seized marijuana was weighed and confirmed to total 12 grams. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
Riverview bar shooting Duo’s case stalled by ballistics’ report delay
Travis Farley, 24, and his girlfriend, 23-yearold Bhurita Motilall, of Riverview, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, in their latest court appearance, came before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday for the Nov 3, 2024, shooting incident that left their 37-year-old neighbour, Zahir Hussein, injured.
At their first court appearance before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty, both defendants pleaded not guilty and were granted $200,000 bail each.
At this latest hearing, the prosecution revealed that the case file remains incomplete as the ballistics re-
port is still outstanding.
The report is critical to the investigation, and its absence has delayed the case for months.
Magistrate Azore adjourned the matter until February 28, to allow time for the report to be submitted.
According to the facts presented during their first court appearance, the incident occurred at a bar in Riverview, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, reportedly owned by Farley.
On the night of the event, between 21:30h and 22:00h, Hussein was standing at the bar on the southern side of the street when Farley, riding as a pillion passenger
on a motorcycle, stopped in front.
He allegedly instructed Motilall, who was inside the bar, to pass him a gun.
Eyewitnesses reported that the firearm was handed to Farley, who then discharged several rounds, resulting in injuries to Hussein’s legs.
No firearm was recovered at the scene; however, spent shells and two live 9mm rounds were found.
Following the incident, both Motilall and Farley were arrested and charged.
Attorney Adrian Thompson, who is representing the accused, had argued that Hussein and Farley had engaged in a scuffle where no firearm
Injured:
was used. He requested reasonable bail for both defendants, emphasising that they have two young children together.
Prosecutor Sean Williams had objected to bail, citing the seriousness and prevalence of the offense. He noted that due to the severity of Hussein’s injuries, he was unable to appear in court. Williams also mentioned that a witness reported seeing the gun being handed from Motilall to Farley.
After consideration, Magistrate McGusty granted bail in the sum of $200,000 for each accused, with conditions requiring them to report to the East La Penitence Police Station. The case remains ongoing as investigators work to complete the file.
Chris Sobers is on bail
Zahir Hussein
Travis Farley and his girlfriend Bhurita Motilall
Adrian Stoll
The marijuana that was found in Stoll’s car
2nd youth-friendly space is opened
…as Govt aims to replicate centres
In an effort to uplift and empower young people, the Human Services and Social Security Ministry inaugurated a second Youth-Friendly Space at Strathavon, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
This initiative, a collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), aims to foster positive development, mentorship, and peer interaction for Guyanese youth.
The Youth-Friendly
Space is open daily and welcomes children and young adults from all walks of life, offering a range of resources, including a computer, television, sports equipment, and board games, making it a versatile hub for various activities.
The first Youth-Friendly Space was commissioned in Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) back in December 2024.
During her address at the opening, Human
Services Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud, emphasised that the centre will serve as more than just a safe haven for youths in and around Strathavon—it will actively enhance their academic performance by providing essential resources to support schoolwork, foster creativity through art projects, and offer a welcoming environment to unwind and connect with peers.
“There are many positive things this space intends to
encourage. Reading, sports, counselling. Now you know what counselling is about – talking to someone who can help you through something that’s bothering you. We also want to encourage friendship, networking among yourselves and we always want to keep things like bullying very far from you”.
“We are going to have this centre open every day, so at all times it is available to you. So, when you come,
you don’t only meet children from your school, there will be children here. Once they’re considered young people, any can come to the centre because this is your special and safe space,” Dr Persaud said.
The centre also plans to incorporate community-driven projects, such as building a library through a book drive.
Highlighting the role of young people in shaping the present and future, Dr
Persaud emphasised the inclusivity of the space and announced that this initiative is part of a broader plan to establish 10 Youth-Friendly Spaces across Guyana, supported by the UNFPA.
“We have gotten through that UNFPA resource fund, the ability to open ten such Youth Friendly spaces across the country. So, from here we will move to other regions and we will do the same thing, it is our hope and our vision that our young people will be nurtured, they will be encouraged, they will be motivated and they can develop to the best version of themselves. We want young people to never feel that anything is beyond them, whatever it is that they see, feel and aspire for they should be able to achieve it,” the Minister said.
“I hope this space will produce many leaders in time to come, national leaders, community leaders, young leaders. I don’t believe that youths are the future you know, I believe that the youths are the now, because you’re never too young to have a view, opinion and perspective,” she added.
From cricket to recovery:
10-year-old’s determined journey back to sports
The dreams of possibly being able to make hundreds of runs like popular local cricketer, Shimron Hetmyer and hit sixes into the air at unimaginable speeds have been put on a short hold for one 10-year-old infatuated with the sport of cricket.
This young dreamer, who has also put the work into playing at the same level of Hetmyer is 10-year-old Riaan Nankoo from Success Elementary School, whose aspirations were halted for a short moment by an unfortunate accident in early November 2024 where a nail injured his left feet.
Riaan recounted his experience to this newspaper on Saturday, where he was spotted striding with great determination at the newly commissioned Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Home Stretch Avenue, Georgetown. The accident occurred while he was riding his bike.
Unfortunately, he found himself in the vicinity of an oncoming car, and as he tried to swerve to avoid it, he fell. His foot landed on a nail that was lying on the ground. Despite his young age and this
unfortunate situation, Riaan fearlessly addressed the situation, emanating a spirit of determination and resilience.
“I was riding my bike, and somebody put some wood and nails. I tried to avoid a car, and then I had to stand up on my bike because it didn’t have any training wheels. I fell onto two nails, and they pierced the side of my foot,” the ten-year-old recounted.
This young cricket enthusiast, who daydreams of returning to his active lifestyle, holds onto hope the same way he once held onto his cricket bat.
“I don’t know, but I pray maybe by next month or in another week or two,” Riaan shared optimistically.
Despite his injury, Riaan has found a new outlet to stay connected to sports. Currently, he spends time playing on his PlayStation, focusing on football games. He is proud of the progress he has made in this area.
“I started playing PlayStation games, football, and I’m getting really good at it. We keep passing balls to one another,” he said.
Riaan also expressed his admi-
ration for Shimron Hetmyer, a cricketer he deeply looks up to and aspire to become.
“I really love cricket, and I used to look up to Shimron Hetmyer. I used to practice playing cricket as well, and I used to play on my bike all over the streets in different places. Since I got injured, I haven’t been going out as much.”
Riaan was seen along sides his supportive aunt, who has been accompanying him when he visits the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud exploring the youth-friendly space with students
Rian Nankoo, standing resilient despite his injury
Youth Ministry sees 1,797 persons trained in robotics, coding
– cites significant progress in several other youth programmes
Some 1,797 persons have been trained in robotics and coding from the Government’s Scratch Programme, marking a remarkable milestone for the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport for 2024.
This information was revealed by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson, during his Ministry’s end-of-year press conference on Saturday.
According to Ramson, some 50 persons have also been recorded to be trained in the advanced level of the programme.
“For robotics and coding, there were 1,797 young people trained in robotics and coding through the Scratch programme. And for the advanced programme, there were 50 young people who were trained in Advanced robotics,” he announced.
He also revealed that in terms of the advanced programme, only persons with tertiary level education would have qualified for the training.
“And to do that, you have to have a tertiary-level qualification. We had 70 trained as trainers and 21 hubs estab-
lished in 2024,” he explained.
Training in robotics and coding align with the Government’s transformative plans to make Guyana a centre for Information and Communications Technology (ICT), which will ultimately transform the nation into a hub for data services, data centres, and data banks.
Coding training provides young Guyanese with an avenue to express their creativity
combined with critical thinking; boost presentation and problem-solving skills.
Ramson also discussed other areas of youth development within Guyana, including significant progress in literacy and numeracy programmes, which have impacted many individuals.
“Since 2021, our literacy and numeracy programme has trained 1,260 young people. And then for our (Youth
As winds increase, LA firefighters desperately battle to contain monster inferno
Firefighters are making an all-out assault to prevent the largest of the deadly wildfires that is threatening Los Angeles from spreading into one of the city’s most exclusive neighbourhoods.
Aerial crews have been bombarding the flaming hills with water and fire retardant to hold back the Palisades fire, which has expanded an additional 1,000 acres and is now menacing Brentwood.
Officials have been on the defensive amid mounting anger at how hydrants ran dry as firefighters struggled to contain the fast-moving blazes.
Winds are expected to pick up again overnight, further fanning the flames that have already left at least 11 people dead.
“LA County had another night of unimaginable terror and heartbreak,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath on Saturday.
Firefighters have made modest progress against the worst of the infernos, the Palisades fire, which has scorched nearly 23,000 acres and is 11% contained.
But the conflagration has spread into the Mandeville Canyon neighbourhood, sparking evacuation orders for swathes of Brentwood, a ritzy enclave where Arnold Schwarzenegger, Disney chief executive Bob Iger and NBA star LeBron James have homes.
Also in the evacuation zone is the Getty Center, a hilltop museum that holds more than 125,000 artworks, including masterpieces by Van
Gogh, Rembrandt, Rubens, Monet and Degas. The building is undamaged so far.
The second-biggest blaze, the Eaton fire, has razed more than 14,000 acres and was 15% contained. Firefighters have mostly contained two smaller blazes, the Kenneth and Hurst fires.
But the National Weather Service warned that the gusty Santa Ana winds that whipped up the fires at the outset would increase again on Saturday and into Sunday.
Seven neighbouring states, the federal government and Canada and Mexico have rushed resources to California.
No cause has yet been established for the fires. The two biggest ones combined have razed an area more than twice the size of Manhattan.
(Excerpted from BBC)
Empowerment Services) YES programme, 350 young people were trained or certified in five skilled areas.”
Keeping in line with other initiatives, Ramson revealed that the President’s Youth Award Republic of Guyana (PYARG) programme has also yielded significant results.
“The PYARG programme, which is the President’s Youth Award programme, …Last year, 5,028 young people participated in our PYARG programme. During that programme, they go on expeditions, receive life training skills, play sports, get coaching, and gain all kinds of exposure.”
This is one initiative that has been revitalised by the Ministry. This programme went dormant in 2017, but under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali, it was restarted it in 2022.
Meanwhile, shedding light on other areas of work within apprenticeship programmes, he revealed that youths have contributed significantly to these programmes with remarkable hours expended.
“As part of our volunteer apprenticeship community
in 2024
support programme, last year we engaged 4,530 young people in community work. 4,530 young people, a lot of them were involved in activities on community grounds.”
These students are taken to do practical exercises on community grounds, whether it’s building walkways, helping to build fences, or doing repairs on stands, etc. These works are done with the students at the community level, benefiting the community.
In fact, they are paid for these apprenticeship programmes by the Ministry.
“They are paid an additional $7,000 for each day of work. And when they start the programme, they receive a full set of safety gear.”
Meanwhile, young people have also significantly taken up the mantle in hopes of applying an array of trades to the test.
For the YES programme, 350 young people were trained and certified in five skilled areas - carpentry, masonry, plumbing, electrical installation, and welding. Upon completion, they received a CTVET Level 1 certificate.
This programme provides students with the opportunity to get meals every day and also earn from community initiatives.
“And in that programme, just so that you know, they get a meal every day. They receive a stipend to attend. They also get an opportunity to earn from the community projects…. Whether they do it by themselves or they’re working with a company, they have the full safety kit, all of their tools, and they’re earning for themselves. We’ve created a different pathway for them,” the Minister noted.
He mentioned too that the success rate of this programme is high and that the Ministry provides financial advice to participants.
“It’s a very supportive programme. And we have taken people without high school completion and put them into this programme. They have completed it, and now they are earning... I also engage them in discussions during the training. I give them financial advice as part of the sessions. So, it’s a very thoughtfully designed and highly successful programme.”
Biden calls Meta’s decision to drop factchecking ‘really shameful’
Joe Biden has pushed back on Meta chief executive officer Mark Zuckerberg’s decision to replace Facebook factchecking departments with company-moderated community notes, calling the decision a “really shameful” choice.
“The whole idea of walking away from factchecking as well as not reporting anything having to do with discrimination regarding … I find it to be contrary to American justice,” the outgoing president told reporters during a press call on Friday. “Telling the truth matters.”
Zuckerberg said last week that the decision to end the factchecking practice on Facebook, Instagram
and Threads was made because Facebook’s factchecking, brought in December 2016, had done more harm than good in terms of public trust.
“The recent elections also feel like a cultural tipping point towards, once again, prioritizing speech,” Zuckerberg said. “So we’re going to get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies and restoring free expression on our platforms.”
The dispute between the Meta CEO and Biden – who leaves office on 20 January as Donald Trump begins a second presidency – comes as Zuckerberg has, like most tech titans, signaled his willingness
to do business with the incoming administration. For Zuckerberg, that includes contributing to Trump’s record-setting second inauguration fund.
Zuckerberg claimed during an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience released on Friday that Biden administration officials had pressured Facebook to remove certain content from the social media platform. In a letter last year to Jim Jordan, the Republican chairperson of the US House judiciary committee, Zuckerberg said that the White House “repeatedly pressured” Facebook to remove “certain Covid-19 content including humor and satire”. (The Guardian)
Ukraine captures two North Korean soldiers in Kursk – Zelenskiy
Ukraine has captured two North Korean soldiers in Russia’s Kursk region, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Saturday, the first time Ukraine has announced the capture of North Korean soldiers alive since their entry into the war last autumn.
North Korean regular troops entered the war on Russia’s side in October, according to Kyiv and its western allies, who initially estimated their numbers at 10,000 or more.
In a post on X, Zelenskiy said that the soldiers had
been brought to Kyiv and were communicating with the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the country’s domestic intelligence agency.
“As with all prisoners of war, these two North Korean soldiers are receiving the necessary medical assistance,” Zelenskiy said. He said that journalists would be given access to speak to them.
Russia has neither confirmed nor denied the presence of North Korean troops in Kursk, and there was no immediate reaction from Moscow or Pyongyang to the latest report.
Ukraine had previously said it captured North Korean soldiers in combat, but that they had been badly wounded and died shortly afterwards. (BBC)
Kyiv says that North Korean troops are fighting in the Kursk region, where Ukraine launched an incursion in August. Kyiv says it still controls several hundred square kilometres of territory there. Pyongyang has also been supplying Russia with vast quantities of artillery shells, according to Kyiv and its western allies.
As winds increase, LA fire fighters desperately battle to contain this monster inferno
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr
TAURUS (April 20May 20)
GEMINI (MAY 21June 20)
(June 21July 22)
LEO (July 23Aug. 22)
VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) (March 21April 19)
LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)
SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)
CAPRICORN
(Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)
PISCES
(Feb. 20Mar. 20)
Deal with any demons you have wandering around in your mind. Bringing emotional issues into the open may backfire if you don’t consider the consequences first. It is best to keep your thoughts to yourself.
A change will be as good as a rest, especially if you make your surroundings peaceful, convenient and comfortable. Choose peace and love over discord and chaos.
Take a deep breath before you charge forward. Excess is the enemy, whether it’s overreacting, engaging in indulgent behavior or taking on more than you can handle.
Emotions will surface, and it’s up to you to keep them in line and geared toward peace, love and happiness. Surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you.
Be a spectator. Sit back and watch the show. Refuse to let what you cannot control cause grief. Nothing is forever, and eventually, the pendulum will swing in your favor.
Take a play day. Do something you enjoy with the people you enjoy spending time with. Avoid those who cause drama and focus on what excites you. Challenge yourself and enjoy the rewards.
Less drama, more fun. Take a break from challenges and focus on something that gives you pleasure. Downtime will replenish your soul and help you find solutions.
You’ll learn from doing. So, pick up new skills and test your mental or physical ability. It’s a great day to venture down a path that challenges you to do your best.
Consider the outcome before you start something you cannot finish. Refuse to let someone bait you into a confrontation or put you on the spot regarding a commitment.
Let your imagination wander, and you’ll come up with lifestyle changes or home improvements to make your life easier or more enjoyable. Enjoy yourself.
Feeling comfortable in your space will put your mind at rest and give you the resolve to tackle other domestic issues. Talk to experts before you undertake any major improvements.
Keep an open mind but avoid scams. Stick close to home, focus on your comfort and peace of mind, spend time on a creative project or get together with like-minded people.
ARIES
Peanuts
Calvin and Hobbes
Pickles
AQUARIUS
CANCER
Savory, Persaud, Jones star in day 2 of GHE practice match
Resuming day 2 at 26-1 on Friday, solid batting from Savory’s XI saw their side piling on a 45-run lead after the first innings, which was quickly cut down by their opponents, when the first of two practice matches for the Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE) continued.
Akshaya Persaud and Captain Kemol Savory have both slammed 89 runs on day 2 to steer Savory’s XI to 275 all out, hunting down 230 set by Chanderpaul’s XI, who had taken first strike on the day prior.
Following a rocky start from the top order, Persaud’s 89 was embellished with 16 fours and 1 six in 99 balls
faced, while the Captain got to his number after facing 92 balls and slamming 14 boundaries. Their 173-run partnership was the highlight of the day, as Savory’s XI cruised past the opponent’s first innings’ score.
An unbeaten 25 from Richie Looknauth and a similar number of extras ensured Savory’s XI left a 45-run lead for Tagenarine Chanderpaul’s side to erase.
Joshua Jones was the pick of the bowlers for Chanderpaul’s side, claiming 4-55 from 13.1 overs; while Goolcharran Chulai picked up 3-21 from 8 overs.
Chanderpaul’s XI then raced to 96-4 by the end of the
day’s play. By then, Sachin Singh and Rampersaud Ramnauth were occupying the crease, respectively on 34 and 16 not out. Usherdeva Balgobin had earlier slammed 23 from 29 balls before perishing, while the remainder of their top order could only manage measly scores.
Thaddeus Lovell again put a dent in the Chanderpaul XI’s advances, snaring 2-26 from 6 overs, while Isai Thorne and Richie Looknauth each snared one wicket.
Action in the practice match would continue at 14:00hrs today at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD)
Senior Barebow Open tourney begins with use of online software
Archery Guyana commenced the highly-anticipated 2024 Senior Barebow Open tournament on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue in Georgetown.
The event was officially declared open by Archery Guyana President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, who, in inspiring remarks, celebrated the unwavering dedication of Guyana’s archery community.
“Today we celebrate the skill, focus and sportsmanship that define archery. This event highlights the growth of barebow archery in Guyana and the dedication of our athletes who continue to elevate the sport. Whether they achieve victory or face challenges, their journey defines
Pakistan go spin-heavy for West Indies Tests, leave out Abbas and Naseem
Mohammad Abbas and Naseem Shah have been omitted from the Pakistan Test squad for the two-Test home series against West Indies, with Pakistan looking to beef-up their spin options.
Aamer Jamal and Mir Hamza, who played in South Africa, have also been rested, with Pakistan recalling Mohammad Ali and picking fast bowler Kashif Ali for the first time.
Sajid Khan, who played a leading role in the series’ win against England earlier in the season, is back, and is partnering Noman Ali. Pakistan have also recalled Abrar Ahmed.
"As part of workload management, the pace quartet of Aamer Jamal, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, and
Naseem Shah has been rested," PCB has said in a media release.
Abbas a standout performer in the South Africa series, ended as the joint-highest wicket-taker with ten wickets from the two Tests, including his 100th Test victim.
Those were his first Tests for three years. His resting is likely also a result of the expected condition of the pitches -- which aid spin, and on which his relatively slower pace might not offer a threat.
There is again no place in the squad for Shaheen Afridi, who also didn't play in the Tests in South Africa. With Naseem being out, it means that a home season that began with Pakistan talking up their pace depth and fielding an all-pace attack would end with Shaheen and Naseem
having played two and three Tests out of nine.
The pair had widely been seen as the spearhead of a pace attack when the season began, but neither has managed to play two consecutive Tests. Tellingly, when Pakistan fielded an all-pace attack against South Africa in Cape Town in their most recent Test, neither had made it to the XI.
Saim Ayub, who sustained a fracture of his right ankle during the first Test against South Africa, is also missing from the squad. This means a new opening combination for the series, as Abdullah Shafique, on the back of a prolonged run of poor form compounded by three ducks in three ODIs in South Africa, has also been dropped. The selectors have
picked Imam-ul-Haq and Muhammad Hurraira instead.
Rohail Nazir would be the back-up wicketkeeper for Mohammad Rizwan. He replaces Haseebullah Khan, who split the webbing on his right hand in South Africa.
Both Tests against West Indies would be played in Multan, with the first starting on January 17 and the second on January 25.
Pakistan Test squad
Shan Masood (capt), Saud Shakeel (vice-capt), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Imamul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Kashif Ali, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir (wk), Sajid Khan, Salman Agha. (ESPNCricinfo)
success,” she told the assembled athletes, officials, coaches, club representatives, sponsors, media personnel and spectators.
She also expressed gratitude to Culture, Youth, and Sport Minister the Honourable Charles Ramson; Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle; National Sports Commission President Godfrey Munroe; the Executive Committee of the Guyana Olympic Association; Mr. Samuel Arjoon of Guyana Beverages Inc., Oasis Water, and members of the media for their invaluable support.
Following her remarks, Director of Shooting, Mr. Ryan McKinnon, introduced the officials, including Chairman of Judges Robert Singh, Judges Afzal Karim and Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, and the Results Team, led by Chair of the Technical Committee, Mr. Saeed Karim, along with Anopa Ramdial and Idrees Shakeem.
The competition commenced with an official equipment inspection, followed by 20 minutes of practice.
Athletes then proceeded to the ranking rounds, consisting of 20 ends of three arrows each, totalling 60 arrows.
Archery Guyana is, for the first time, utilising the globally-recognised IANSEO software for live scoring. This technology ensures immediate updates of results, offering real-time insights for athletes, coaches, and fans alike.
Participants and spectators can access the live scores through the following link: https://ianseo.net/Details. php?toId=20798
This system guarantees transparency and efficiency, keeping everyone connected to the unfolding action.
In today’s finals, the IANSEO software would also be utilised, allowing scores to be shared instantaneously, thus creating a dynamic and engaging experience for all spectators, in Guyana and abroad.
The athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and com-
posure in the ranking rounds. The finals thus promise thrilling performances as archers vie for top honours.
Archery Guyana has moved to invite the public to support and celebrate the growth of this incredible sport by attending the finals or following the live updates.
The Savory XI gave a good account of themselves with the bat
Scenes from the opening day of the 2024 Senior Barebow Open tourney
Noman Ali and Sajid Khan are reunited for the West Indies Tests
Mohammad Abbas has again found himself on the sidelines
Sinclair, Jangoo put Windies in driver’s seat in practice match
West Indies XI ended day two of their three-day tour match with a commanding 134-run lead over Pakistan Shaheens in Islamabad, setting the stage for a strong finish on Sunday.
The Caribbean side dominated with both bat and ball on Saturday, as they declared their first innings on 346-8 before reducing the Shaheens to 212-9 at the
close of play.
Resuming on their overnight score of 273-7, West Indies XI extended their innings with an unbeaten 63 from Amir Jangoo and a steady 28 not out from Kevin Sinclair. The pair added valuable runs in the morning session before the declaration, and left the Shaheens with a challenging target.
Joshua Da Silva, who resumed from 11 overnight,
was earlier dismissed for 22.
Pakistan Shaheens’ bowlers fought hard, with Mohammad Rameez Jnr (364) and Musa Khan (2-63) leading the attack, but they struggled to contain the lower order was met with robust resistance.
In reply, the Shaheens found themselves under pressure early, being reduced to 44-2 at lunch as Kemar Roach and Jayden
Seales struck in the morning session to give the West Indies the upper hand.
The Shaheens rallied briefly after lunch, with Mohammad Huraira anchoring the innings with a fluent 74 and Mohammad Suleiman adding a valuable 45. However, disciplined bowling chipped away at the middle order and left the hosts in trouble at 182-6 by tea.
The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) is anticipating a busy 2025, and amidst it all, the next generation of boxing talent remains a major focus for the association.
This revelation was made by GBA President Steve Ninvalle, who has stressed the need to discover new talent in 2025.
Expressing firm intentions to move the GBA into several institutions in a quest to widen the pool of youth boxers, Ninvalle divulged, “Well, the Guyana Boxing Association plans to have an even more hectic year in 2025 than we did in 2024, the main reason being (that) we plan to expand our nursery. We’ve started speaking with orphanages to see how much we can move into that sphere and look for hidden talent.
“As you know, last year we would’ve held more than 18 under-16 competitions.
SCOREBOARD
West Indies 1st Innings
Kraigg Brathwaite (c) c Omair Yousuf
b Ahmed Safi Abdullah 34
Mikyle Louis lbw
b Mohammad Rameez 34
Keacy Carty c Rohail Nazir
b Mohammad Rameez 22
Kavem Hodge c Rohail Nazir
b Mohammad Rameez 17
Alick Athanaze
b Ahmed Safi Abdullah 99
Justin Greaves run out (Omair Yousuf) 5
Tevin Imlach c †Ghazi Ghori
b Hussain Talat 13
Amir Jangoo not out 63
Joshua Da Silva † run out (Kashif Ali) 22
Kevin Sinclair not out 28
Extras (lb 6, nb 2, w 1) 9
Total 90 Ov (RR: 3.84, 441 Mins) 346/8d Did not bat: Jayden Seales, Kemar Roach, Jomel Warrican, Gudakesh Motie, Anderson Phillip Fall of wickets: 1-47 (Kraigg Brathwaite), 2-89 (Keacy
Kashif Ali 13-3-46-0 Ali Raza 16-1-68-0 Ahmed Safi Abdullah 23-2-91-2 Muhammad Musa 17-2-63-0 Mohammad Rameez jnr 17-2-64-3 Hussain Talat 4-2-8-1
Sinclair was the standout bowler for the visitors with 3-50 from 14 overs. Jayden Seales (2-16), Gudakesh Motie (2-21), and Kemar Roach (1-32) offered excellent support, which ensured the Shaheens never built significant partnerships.
Bad light halted play before the West Indies could complete the innings, but the visitors are well-positioned to finish the match on a high note as they fine-tune for their two-match Test series against Pakistan.
Next Generation in focus as GBA readies for busy year
We hope to better that this year, and we’re also hoping we can work with what was the New Opportunity Corps to try to reopen that vent that we had at that institution.
“It’s axiomatic that Guyana is the best in the Caribbean as it relates to U16 boxers. We aim to make sure that we uphold that,
and that is why we’re placing so much emphasis there.”
However, older categories of pugilists will not be left ‘in the back seat’, as the GBA President has also planned for them.
“During the course of this year, too, we’ll see the first-ever Terrence Poole Memorial, which will be held in October,” he divulged.
“This year, we plan on partnering with several Caribbean countries to try to tap into the IBA’s professional aspect. Which really says that persons like Desmond Amsterdam, Colin Lewis, Keevin Allicock, Abiola Jackman and so forth… can actually have a professional aspect to their amateur background. So, I’ve had conversations with the Presidents of the Trinidad and St. Lucia Boxing Associations about us actually rolling that out as an Amateur regional component,” Ninvalle explained.
As regards the hosting of the Caribbean School Boys and Juniors tournament, Ninvalle told this publication in a comment invit-
ed by this publication that, “We plan on doing it a little different this year. Last year we would’ve done it with a live stream. Persons in Holland, Switzerland, Russia could’ve looked at what we’re having and our product.”
First up on the GBA calendar is hosting of the Terrence Ali National Open, which had initially been scheduled for December 2024.
Speaking on its postponement, Ninvalle said, “As it relates to the upcoming Terrence Ali National Open, we were forced to move that from last December to holding it in January for a number of reasons. One of the
reasons is because of the death of Terrence Poole, who has been the best within the Caribbean as a boxing official. So, we thought it better to host it in January.”
Figurative pyrotechnics are anticipated at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue in Georgetown from Friday, January 17 to Sunday, January 19 when the Terrence Ali National Open is staged. Eminent pugilists the likes of Desmond Amsterdam, Abiola Jackman and Colin Lewis are set to wage war there.
The National Novices Boxing tournament is set to follow the National Open tournament.
GBA President, Steve Ninvalle
A glimpse of the action on day 2 of the 3-day practice match in Pakistan
Much focus would be placed on youth boxing in 2025
The year 2024 has been a glittering one for sport in Guyana, according to Sport Minister Charles Ramson jr, who has measured the success of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS) through the stellar performances of the nation’s athletes.
The MCYS hosted their end-of -year review press briefing on Saturday morning at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, where Ramson Jr gave a glowing review of the country’s thriving sports sector. According to this Minister, there has never been a more successful year in sport for Guyana.
“It’s been a huge year! I don’t think there’s ever been -- there’s never been a more successful year in sport, and there’s never been a more successful period in sport in this country!” he declared.
“Sport in Guyana is on the rise, and it’s on a meteoric kind of rise! And we are moving into a place that we’ve never moved before,” Ramson Jr. confidently shared on Saturday morning.
“Last year, (we had) two different sets of programmes, and we’re working with Associations now to help expand the Elite programme,” he divulged.
Ramson Jr. backed his bold declaration by detailing that sports’ achievements in 2024 included a 296% increase in the number of medals won by Guyanese athletes over the year. He divulged, “For international and regional tournaments last year (2023), Guyanese athletes… secured 167 medals. In 2024, it was 537 medals at international and regional tournaments. This is a 296% increase, and it shows the investment is working. It shows also the direction we’re going is the right direction. It’s showing also that the collaboration and partnership that we’ve forged both with Sports Associations and the athletes themselves directly, we’ve shown how that can bring tremendous benefit for the country. It also shows the benefit of the National Sports Academy and its success.
Further, the minister revealed, “Now, let’s focus on the number of international events held in Guyana. In 2023, it was 15; 2024 it’s 29.”
In justifying his position, he added, “Even in the CARIFTA Games, when we are beating Jamaica in the sprints, we are beating Jamaica in the sprints! And that’s one of the reasons why, with our Elite programme, we were able to have Elite trainers come to the country.
“Let’s look at the international and regional tournaments that Guyana participated in last year. In 2023, there was 51; last year, (there was) 102. And you know the costs to send athletes and team overseas. That’s 100% increase in the number of teams that are travelling and participating in tournaments,” he said.
Electing not to ‘grade’ the departments’ work in 2024, Ramson instead opted for a string of glowing words.
“Remarkable! It’s been outstanding! It’s been record-breaking! It’s been historic!” he declared in response to being asked his thoughts on the sector’s performance.
The Sport Minister added, “So, for us to come and be able to say 534, that’s the grade. My involvement in the sector is just at the leadership level: to make sure that we’re trying to move the country in the right direction for the development of the sector. We want to see our athletes on podiums. We want them flying Guyana’s flag, we want to hear Guyana’s Anthem at these international matches and tournaments, and they’ve been doing that,” he declared.
in driver’s seat in practice match
The Sport sector witnessed a 296% increase in the number of medals won by Guyanese athletes in 2024
Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr talking all things sport in his end-of-year review on Saturday morning (Newsroom Photo)
