Guyana Times - Sunday, November 10, 2024

Safer, more convenient shopping with new security, parking, extended hours at Leonora Market

The vending and shopping experience at the newly constructed Leonora Market, West Coast Demerara (WCD), will be significantly enhanced as Government moves to implement a series of additional measures aimed at creating a safe and convenient environment.

Vendors who previously operated along the Leonora public road were recently relocated to the new market facility. On Friday evening, President Dr Irfaan Ali met with the vendors and announced a series of new measures that will be rolled out.

“We want this to be a safe environment for all of you who are shopping here… and as we work together in developing this facility, you will see that on Friday nights, we will have shopping out here. You will see the shopping hours and market hours will enhance naturally,” he told the vendors.

Among the additional measures that are aimed at improving the new market

about the front of the market to make some parking there for the elderly people so when they come, they don’t have to carry their bags all the way out. They will have a drop off point… Right around the market, we want put a parking ring – we already have the ring in place. And when we finish the road, along the drains,

is the establishment of a police outpost and the installation of security cameras around the facility.

“The [Regional Police] Commander, by next week Saturday, he has to ensure that we have a security system right around the market. We’re going to put cameras in the market so that we’ll have full electronic monitoring of everything in the market so you’ll have a safer environment,” the president stated.

The Head of State also outlined several infrastructural works that will enhance access to the new Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) market as well as the market facilities.

“[We have to] extend the market facility itself… Now that all the people on the road will move in here, we now have the opportunity to pull down the front and rehabilitate the front of the market… On Monday, we’ll commence work on the new road coming in. It will be a 16 feet road with concrete drains on both sides. We will put a brand-new bridge in front there.”

“We are already talking

we will put some parking spots there also. We’ll also have some sections that we will leave for taxi services and all of these things,” he noted.

who had overseen the construction of the

Market, to identify an area to build an overnight facility that will not only cater to vendors working longer

In

to new

addition

washroom facilities, President Ali has instructed Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar,

new Leonora

shifts but farmers who are travelling long distances to supply produce.

The newly-constructed Leonora Market

President Dr Irfaan Ali at one of the stalls in the new market at Leonora, West Coast Demerara

President Dr Irfaan Ali addressing vendors at the new Leonora Market

Editor: Tusika Martin

News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544

223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761

Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

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

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

Now that we have completed the first “International Decade for People of African Descent” (IDPAD), which the PPP signed on to in 2013, a second IDPAD has been announced by the UN, to which the present PPP government has already signed on. The first IDPAD iteration had unfortunately become mired in controversy because of President David Granger’s unilateral decision to transfer all of the country’s activities to give life to the articulated goals of the Decade to a newly-formed “Country Coordinating Mechanism for the Decade” - which arrogated to itself the name IDPAD-Guyana. That IDPAD-G was headed by the PNC’s representative to GECOM gave the organization a partisan cast, and the annual $100 million subvention was eventually discontinued by the incoming PPP government, which decided to fund IDPAD’s activities directly by giving funds to African Guyanese organizations across the country.

The remarks excerpted below by Ilze Brands Kehris, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, should be a useful guide to the Government.

“The question is how to implement the goals. (Activities) must be inclusive, focused, and underpinned by strong leadership and political will. The current programme of activities provides a solid basis for the Second International Decade. Ten years on, however, additional elements are needed to tackle both long-standing issues and growing challenges.

2nd IDPAD launched BULLYING AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN

First, and crucially, these elements must be developed by and with people of African descent and civil society representatives from all regions. It also needs to be informed by their lived experiences, knowledge and expertise, as well as address their expectations and needs.

Second, we must dismantle damaging power structures and institutional practices, and remove discriminatory rules that systematically exacerbate or perpetuate inequality. This involves effectively addressing racism in the criminal justice system, in health, education, employment, housing, and social security. The myriad causes and consequences of racism are interrelated, leading to deep-rooted and intersecting economic, social and educational inequalities. We must tackle them holistically – and that requires a multifaceted and comprehensive approach.

Third, we need to continue our constructive dialogue on reparations in various forms. Reparations are essential if we are to move from widespread discrimination and inequity towards dignity and equality for all. While there is no one-size-fits-all model of reparatory justice, it is clear that efforts must be guided by people of African descent, including women and youth – and founded on human rights.

And fourth, if racism permeates our societies, then eradicating it demands an all-of-society approach. Deeper cooperation and participation of governments, local authorities, victims’ groups, community organizations, national human rights institutions, and international and regional organizations is vital. Governments must take the lead – by advancing and implementing policies and laws to tackle systemic racism, and to ensure inclusion.

We also need the private sector, the media, academia, and civil society broadly to step up. They must consider their links to colonialism and the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans, and examine possibilities for reparation, where appropriate. Companies should also root out bias in the workplace and in the algorithms that rule our digital lives. AI must promote equality, not prejudice. Without action, biased algorithms could hardwire systemic racism into our future.

Racism and racial discrimination divide, damage, and diminish our societies. People of African descent often suffer first and often suffer most – and have done so for hundreds of years. Racists: white supremacists, their enablers and their legacy, have caused centuries of harm to people of African descent, trampling on their rights and denying them their fundamental freedoms as individuals and communities.

The International Decade for People of African Descent was central to efforts to repair that damage. Looking forward, we must intensify our work by standing together, listening to those most affected, and take remedial action. We can heal our societies, and make them more equal and just, using human rights as our blueprint for action.

The proclamation of a Second International Decade is vital to this effort, as it would mark the beginning of a new decade of joined-up, target efforts we take with renewed resolve. This would represent an important step towards recognition, justice and development for all people of African descent everywhere.”

By DR GAITRI SATRAM (BSC, MBBS, DM)PAEDIATRICIAN

Bullying, an intentional and harmful act that targets individuals emotionally, physically, or mentally, is an issue facing many schoolaged children in Guyana. Every day, reports of bullying emerge, with numerous videos circulating on social media showing instances of this troubling behavior — with the act of sharing these videos often adding to the trauma.

Recently, in neighboring Trinidad, a tragic incident reportedly involved a young boy who allegedly took his own life due to bullying.

This highlights the urgent need for collective action to address and prevent bullying, ensuring safer environments for all children.

Risk factors for bullying

Certain risk factors can increase a child’s likelihood of being a bully or a victim.

Increased Risk of Being Bullied:

Depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem Difficulty in socializing or making friends Intellectual or physical disabilities

Being underweight or overweight

Increased Risk of Being a Bully:

Tendency to be aggressive or easily frustrated

Difficulty following rules

Having friends who en-

gage in bullying

Coming from homes with dysfunctional family dynamics, neglect or abuse, exposure to violence at home, or through social media or television.

Effects of bullying on children

Bullying leaves deep, lasting effects on both victims and those who bully.

For Children Who Bully:

Higher likelihood of frequent fights, causing harm, vandalism, and theft

Increased risk of substance abuse and dropping out of school

For Children Who Are Bullied:

Emotional impacts, such as lower self-esteem, fear, and school phobia

Increased risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts Research underscores the need to address bullying as its effects can shape children’s mental health, academic paths, and futures.

How parents and teachers can tackle bullying

Addressing bullying requires active involvement from both parents and teachers. Recognizing early signs is key. Look out for symptoms like stomach aches, frequent sickness on school days, nightmares, sleep issues, loss of appetite, bedwetting, reluctance to attend school, declining grades, anxiety, or depression. When a child shows signs of being bullied —or bullying others—

swift action is essential.

Prevention starts with setting a positive example. Parents and teachers should model respectful behavior and maintain open communication, encouraging children to speak up about any issues they face. Parents can foster a supportive family environment by teaching kids to be assertive, compassionate, and manage anger appropriately. Regular conversations about bullying and its effects can help both parents and children recognize and avoid harmful behaviors.

Key steps for parents to combat bullying

Parents play a crucial role in preventing and addressing bullying. Here are essential steps to help guide children toward positive behaviors: Stay Involved: Regularly ask your child about their school experiences, actively listen, and show genuine interest in

their friendships.

Model Healthy Habits: Set clear boundaries and reinforce anti-bullying values at home. Address harmful behavior early, as failing to discipline can lead to repeated negative actions.

Build Resilience: Encourage self-care, empathy, and teamwork. Support your child’s involvement in sports or recreational activities to boost confidence and social skills.

Teach Empathy and Listening: Show children the importance of understanding others’ perspectives and emotions. Reassure and Support: Let your child know that bullying is never their fault. If needed, seek help from a guidance counselor to provide additional support.

Avoid Blame and Retaliation: Focus on constructive solutions rather than blame or encouraging retaliation, which can worsen the situation.

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo interacting with persons at the BV interblock football competition held on Friday evening at the Beterverwagting Community Centre ground (Office of the Vice President photos)

US Embassy bringing Miami culture to Guyana with exclusive event

Guyanese who had once only dreamed of experiencing the vibrant culture of Miami are now in for an exciting opportunity, Global Tours and Travel having teamed up with the US Embassy to bring to Guyana an engaging event titled “What Happens in Miami”.

In relation to this exciting event, this newscast spoke with Chief Executive Officer

the main idea of the event is for persons to get a first-hand understanding of American culture.

“The whole thing about this event is to introduce Guyanese travellers to various cultures around the world. This one is specifically focused on American culture, and will feature the foods, the drinks, the music, the dance, and other cultural activities of

dation of diplomacy; thus, he highlighted, the US Ambassador supports this vision to promote American culture within Guyana.

“So, it’s part of a cultural diplomacy initiative that even the ambassador is in favour of. We’re assisting her with getting out the message of what America is. We’ll be trying the traditional foods of the USA which we don’t normally have access to here, things like apple pie and, you know, corn dogs and that sort of thing,” he detailed.

Apart from that aspect of American food, American cultured foods and American games would also be showcased.

“Alongside the food,

of Global Tours and Travel, Waynewright Orderson, who shared insights into the origins and vision behind “What Happens in Miami”.

Using the importance of exposure as the base of his discussion, he mentioned that

the United States. The whole concept is to give Guyanese travellers, and even expatriates living in Guyana, the opportunity to get a taste of the United States,” Orderson highlighted.

This event has a foun-

there’ll be another section (which) we call the chill zone, where people will be able to throw an American football, learn how to do that, learn a bit more about baseball, and we even have special cigars that Americans use that they

import from the Dominican Republic. We will have those available for sampling,” Orderson has said.

Orderson is the person who had successfully spearheaded the Fiesta Cubana event held in Guyana earlier this year. He emphasized that “What Happens in Miami” is not just a celebration of American culture, but also a valuable opportunity for attendees to learn more about the visa application process.

“So, we’re paying a lot of attention to promoting Destination USA. The embassy will be right there to give information and advice on consular services: how to go about applying, and what the prerequisites are. But apart from that, the booth that will be pro moting the destina tions will have a lot of informa tion about the various destina tions that peo ple may want to try,” he explained.

“Food won’t be the only highlight of this cultural event, but also we’re paying a lot of atten tion to promot- ing Destination USA because our company offers tours, complete package tours, to a number of these destinations.”

To add to the extravaganza, the CEO relayed, the event would not be limited solely to Miami culture, but would have aspects of other cultures from ‘America’.

“So, it’s not just pure-

BULLYING AMONG SCHOOL...

How teachers can help stop bullying

Teachers have a powerful role in shaping a safe, respectful classroom. By focusing on positive reinforcement and avoiding negative criticism, they can help reduce bullying. Here’s how teachers can make a difference:

Stand Firm Against Bullying: Set a clear, consistent anti-bullying policy in the classroom to make sure every student understands that bullying won’t be tolerated.

Promote Kindness: Incorporate lessons on kindness and empathy to build a supportive, inclusive environment.

Stay Attentive: Ensure proper supervision to spot and prevent incidents be-

fore they escalate. Spot Early Warning Signs: Watch for subtle signs like eye-rolling, staring, or early signs of aggression and address them right away.

Discipline

Respectfully: Maintain order without belittling students or using harsh language, reinforcing that respect is a core value.

Schools have a key role in tackling bullying and fostering a safe environment. Here are effective strategies: Establish a Clear Bullying Policy: Implement a school-wide policy with defined consequences, ensuring all students understand the seriousness of bullying.

Address and

Highlight Incidents: When bullying occurs, use it as a teachable moment for the entire student body. Use Guidance Counselors: Provide support for both victims and those who bully, helping them understand and address the root causes.

Host Assemblies and Discussions: Regularly talk about bullying in assemblies to promote open dialogue and awareness.

Offer Support for Affected Students: Show empathy and provide a supportive environment for those impacted by bullying.

Engage Parents Early: Involve parents at the first sign of concern to work together in addressing behaviors.

Pediatricians’ role in detecting bullying

During routine visits, pediatricians should screen for bullying by asking children directly about school, friends, and their feelings about attending. High-risk groups— like those with chronic illness, disabilities, or weight issues—need special attention. For children at risk of bullying or displaying bullying behaviors, questions on handling emotions and problem-solving are crucial. If bullying is identified, provide necessary referrals and support.

"Speak Up, Stand Together: Reporting Bullying Can Make a Difference."

ly ‘American’, but you have Latin American; you have immigrants from all over, including Guyana, that live and form part of the culture of the United States. So, our cultural programme will be a diverse programme, where we’ll have Guyanese performers, we’ll have Latin American performers, and

you’ll have other persons from the US performing at the event,” he divulged.

Meanwhile Consultant of

this event, Wendy Denanath, relayed why Guyanese should attend the event.

“It is a fact that we Guyanese like fun…,” she explained. “Persons who attended the last event, especially the Fiesta Latino that we had in August, realized that it was a fun event, because they got to engage, see and experience a part of the Latin culture…

“I personally enjoyed the music and the dance, and from what we’re going to promote this time, (it’s) the music, and Guyanese were affiliated with the rap, the R&B, every kind of American music that we’re accustomed to…,” she explained.

“You can dance, you can partake. As I said, just come out; it’s going to be fun, and it’s family-friendly,” she declared.

Some recent cultural events hosted by Global Tours and Travel

CEO of Global Tours and Travel, Waynewright Orderson

Consultant Wendy Denanath

EMERGENCIES — FROG POISONING

Ihave purposely kept this topic for the last of my discussions on Emergencies. So many myths have been bandied about on this issue that practically every “sudden” canine death is attributed to a frog “blowing” on the dog. Usually, there is a different cause of ailment and death, but that is another reality. The fact is that all toads and frogs are unsavory to dogs, so dogs naturally keep their distance. I suppose there is some instinctive mechanism or maternal teaching that plays a role that is quite distinct from the experience that a dog would have

quired from physical contact with a frog.

The toxin (poison) is pro duced by glands on the skin, located prominently on the back of the frog/ toad and behind the eyes. The creamy poi son is ex pelled by con tracting of the muscles of the glands, so it is not a matter of the frog “blow ing” on the dog. Actually, it is a defence mechanism of the frog.

If some curious dog, especially one which might have been orphaned early in life, unwittingly comes into physical contact with a frog or toad; or licks, bites and in

creased discharge of saliva.

We have frogs here in Guyana that do secrete a potent toxin that affects the heart rate and blood circulation in dogs and cats. Death can occur within minutes.

Cats seem not to continue contact with a

ous frog/toad once the bad taste is experienced. Perhaps cats have a greater tolerance level to frog’s toxins. But the literature does confirm cases of cats succumbing to frog

SYMPTOMS

- Excessive drooling, slobbering or spitting

- The inside of the animal’s mouth develops a bluish colour (cyanosis)

- Difficulty breathing

- Irregular heartbeats

- Convulsions

The symptom of poisoning is proportion

absolute stiffening of the muscles (like a board), and then death.

TREATMENT

Since the poi son attacks the ner vous system, the di aphragm — which is controlled by nerves, and which plays an important role in inhalation and exhalation of air (oxygen) — does not function well, or at all. The animal be-

through sustained breath ing. The vet can give injections to improve breathing.

The most important and

gins to turn blue from the lack of oxygen. The dog literally is actually suffocating.

Usually, by the time the owner arrives at the vet clinic with the stiff, prostrate, comatose dog, the prognosis for recovery is not good. The vet would try to relax the muscles with a sedative, muscle

helpful thing to do, if you have noted your dog’s excessive salivation arising from contact with a frog via the mouth, is to immediately wash out the dog’s mouth - preferably with running water from a garden hose. You are also advised to wear

relaxant, or even with an anesthetic. Of course, one has to be careful; it may be contra-indicated to administer such drugs to a patient who is already in a coma. Worse, once the anesthetic wears off, the animal may relapse into stiffness, causing breathing difficulties to return.

The therapy must nevertheless be directed at rein-

gloves and protective eyewear and a mask while at-

Guyana Govt stands ready to work with incoming US administration

…VP confident of US energy funding support as Trump begins 2nd term

With the recent election of former President Donald Trump to a second, non-consecutive term in the White House, it is not anticipated that the changing of the guard will pose problems for Guyana securing funding for energy projects, funding currently being sought from agencies such as the United States (US) Export Import (EXIM) Bank.

This was according to Vice President and People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo, during a recent press conference, where he also expressed his congratulations for the election of Trump as the 47th President of the United States.

“We’re looking forward to working with his administration. We had a good working relationship with his previous administration and we’re looking forward to continuing that relationship and growing it. We

believe the United States of America is a very close partner of Guyana and therefore we have to work to build that partnership continuously,” Jagdeo said.

Analysts have speculated on what a second Trump Presidency will look like, including what the next administration’s energy policies will look like. Reports are that the Trump administration will pave way for policies that prioritise fossil fuel development and roll back many climate-driven initiatives.

Guyana is currently seeking funding from the United States EXIM bank, for its transformative Gasto-Energy (GtE) Project. According to Jagdeo, the PPP/C Government is looking forward to continuing its work with the US and the incoming Trump administration. He does not anticipate there will be any problems with securing funding for energy projects in Guyana from US sources.

“I don’t see any ma-

jor change because on the production of oil and gas, we have not had any major differences with the US Government... In fact, I think we will have a good working relationship with his Government on this issue too. We do not anticipate any conflict,” the Vice President added.

Speaking about the way forward for the two countries, Jagdeo also noted that the Government will continue working to debunk “lies” being pedaled by opposition members and supporters in that country against the PPP/C Government, whenever they travel to the US.

“Every [US] Mission that comes to Guyana, they have a standard mantra. That is, the PPP is racist, the PPP is corrupt, the PPP is incompetent, the PPP squanders oil money and the PPP doesn’t like the US, (that) we are in bed with the Chinese...Of course, the facts are very different and we have been meeting with those officials to set the record straight,” Jagdeo further said.

GtE

Back in April 2023, it was announced that the Guyana Government had applied for the loan from the US EXIM Bank to finance the US$761 million GtE Project, which includes the construction of an Integrated Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) Plant and a 300-megawatt (MW) combined cycle power plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD), utilising natural gas from the country’s offshore operations in the Stabroek Block.

In September 2024, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh met with senior officials of the US EXIM Bank in Washington DC during which discussions were held on the loan. As part of its internal due diligence process, the US EXIM Bank hired two consultants to do the technical assessment of the project.

These works were done during site visits over the past year. In fact, back in June, President Dr Irfaan Ali had revealed that the feedback from those two assessments were positive. He said the teams found “no fatal flaws” from the technical and environmental due diligence work done here.

However, even as Guyana awaits the approval of this loan, Government has already spent some US$400 million on the high-

ly anticipated GtE Project and could potentially fund the entire initiative if the request from the US EXIM Bank is not approved.

The Guyana Government had set aside a whopping $80 billion in Budget 2024 to advance the GtE initiative this year and its associated infrastructure, including transmission and distribution upgrades to offtake the power. As of the middle of 2024, the marine offloading facility has been completed, and 26 kilometres (km) of onshore pipelines are being installed by US oil major, ExxonMobil.

Meanwhile, Guyana’s petroleum sector is currently led by US Oil major ExxonMobil, through its local subsidiary Esso Exploration Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), which is the operator of the

Stabroek Block where the oil is being produced, and holds 45 per cent interest in the block.

Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds the remaining 25 per cent interest. The Liza Phases One and Two and Payara Projects, all of which combined are producing over 600,000 barrels of oil per day, account for the three FPSO vessels operating in Guyana’s Stabroek Block in waters offshore. In addition, there are many American companies currently investing in the local economy including suppliers to the oil and gas industry as well as hoteliers. (G3)

Safer, more convenient shopping ...

“So, when you come overnight, you can have hammocks, you can have five, six showers, and you can go and shower. All of those things we’re going to put in place now for those farmers who are coming. We want you to have higher quality. We want you to have better quality,” the Head of State added.

According to the President, it will take some time for both the vendors to settle in and for shoppers to get accustomed to the new market.

Previously, vendors operated along the West Coast public road, which posed significant traffic hazards and caused congestion in the area. But now, the vendors will be plying their

trade in a safer and more convenient environment.

“We give some tables out already and we’re doing some benches. Wherever there is help that you need to build back [your stalls/ stands] we will help you to build back it… If there is need for more stand pipes around, we will put more stand pipes. So, as we move and we see there is need for more things, we will put those things in. This is a work in progress this… But just appreciate the fact that we want better for you. We don’t want to disrupt anybody’s life. We want better for you. We want better conditions for you,” the Guyanese Leader posited.

Meanwhile, during his engagement with the ven-

FROM PAGE 3

dors on Friday evening, President Ali also addressed issues relating to slot allocation, sanitation and maintenance of the new Leonora Market.

Back in 2022, the Head of State had visited the old market facility and observed a hosting of challenges. He subsequently initiated a plan to construct the new tarmac and upgrade the access road. Consequently, a $149 million contract was signed in December 2022 for the 8,000-square metre tarmac.

In light of the additional measures announced for Leonora Market, similar interventions are planned for other markets across Region Three including the ones at Parika and Hydronie.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

US President-elect Donald Trump and incoming First Lady Melania Trump

Education…

…in the air

Well, education’s certainly in the air!! Once again, our high schools have outperformed all others in the entire Caribbean in the CSEC and CAPE exams – with one student copping TWENTY-NINE subjects!! Your Eyewitness can’t even imagine what’s rattling around in that kid’s head!! After all, all these kids need to enter the next rung on the educational ladder are English, Maths and three other subjects at CSEC!! Used to be that the extra subjects were meant to get the attention of those folks in officialdom who doled out scholarships, but those days are long gone!!

There’s now the “Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL)” programme that the government of Dr Irfaan Ali launched back in 2021. They’ve already surpassed their goal (pun intended!!) to sign 20,000 John Hancocks on the dotted line in their first term, and there’s a whole year to go!! These scholarships are tendered in universities across the world -including UWI. Some of their graduates have already entered the workforce and, hopefully, we’ll be getting a feel as to how effective this “on-line” learning’s gonna be. Whatever the results, we better get used to this “extra” extra-distance learning format. Everything’s going remote these days – even working from home!!

So, where does this leave UG, which is graduating some 3500 newly-minted students – one of the largest cohorts ever! - from its more-than 60 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes!! These include the Natural Sciences, Engineering, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Urban Planning and Management, Tourism Studies, Education, Creative Arts, Economics, Law, Medicine, Optometry, and Nursing!! Whew!! Your Eyewitness can see that there’s gonna be a whole lotta chests puffed out and heads in the air come next week - when all these graduates start knocking on doors pleading to join the workforce!!

But the question your Eyewitness has is: How qualified are these graduates for the new economy, that’s being created so fast that it makes your head spin!! Take, for instance, all the hospitals that the Government’s building all over the country. These would need hundreds of doctors, thousands of nurses and technicians, and countless persons trained in the ancillary services. Are we preparing enough of these so’s not to be caught with our gowns down??

Then, of course, there’re all the skilled welders and other blue-collar workers that the exponential number of infrastructural projects are gonna demand. Are the TVET and industrial schools we have churning enough of these to fill the demand?? Your Eyewitness hopes that Sociology and International Relations graduates from US won’t outnumber the other “skills” once again!! Maybe the Government should refine that planned cancellation of fees to UG to just those areas the economy needs!!

We gotta decide exactly what “education” means for our country in the new dispensation!!

…of the Opposition Leader

PNC leader Aubrey Norton just announced that he and AFC leader Nigel Hughes are gonna be sitting down to have a parley on a coalition arrangement to contest the 2025 elections. Now, right off the bat, your Eyewitness wants to know if Norton has given up on the “APNU coalition” with those powerful four parties – which booted him out when he evidently didn’t show up for their meetings!! So, having rebranded the fearsome PNC name, is he walking it back?? Or does he realize everyone took the coalition for exactly what it was – a fig leaf for the PNC??

Anyhow, exactly what would he be offering the AFC?? Last go around, they forged their coalition on Valentine’s Day – with all the roses and chocolate demanded to assure the then AFC leader and his party that they won’t become Dead Meat!! So, if this time the deed is done on Christmas Day – black cake and mauby will be offered?

Anyhow, your Eyewitness gonna pass on the question of who’s gonna be the (Maximum) Leader!!

…in politics

Reiterating his earlier statements, Norton insisted, “We believe coalition should reflect the strength of the political parties”. So, does he consider the WPA so minuscule they aren’t even being invited to the parley?? Ah…the overreach of kingmakers!!

Brutus withdraws another court case filed against SOCU, Top Cop, AG

…to pay $750,000 in court costs

Assistant Police Commissioner (ACP) Calvin Brutus and his wife Adonika Aulder has been ordered by the High Court to pay $750,000 in total to several respondents after discontinuing yet another High Court action, which they filed on the August 19, 2024 against the Head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), the Commissioner of Police and the Attorney General (AG).

In these proceedings, Brutus and his wife sought a number of Orders, including, an Order to recall the Order of Court, earlier granted,

freezing their bank accounts.

The application to withdraw this particular proceeding was made orally when the matter was called on Friday by the attorney appearing for the ACP and his wife.

Another High Court proceeding which was filed seeking permission for the claimants to leave the jurisdiction, allegedly for medical attention for Aulder was also dismissed.

The application brought before Justice Gino Persaud and after hearing arguments from lawyers appearing for the AG’s Chambers, Brutus

and his wife were ordered to pay $250,000 each to the respondents, namely, the AG, Commissioner of Police and SOCU within six weeks from the date of the Order.

According to a release issued by the AG’s Chambers, “these costs have not been paid and upon the expiration of the six weeks, if these costs remain unpaid, the requisite legal steps will be taken to recover the same”.

Brutus is represented by attorneys Earl Daniels, Yuborn Alicock, and Dominic Bess and this is the second set of proceedings filed and later withdrawn by the ACP and his wife, whose facing several charges related to fraud and money laundering in the Magistrates’ court.

The first High Court application was filed in October, in which Brutus claimed victimisation among other things.

Brutus SOCU has said that on January 11, 2024, Brutus allegedly instructed a Superintendent of Police to prepare and issue two cheques valued at $6.4 million and $7.4 million from the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Central Welfare Fund to purchase goods that were never supplied.

Further, on January 31, 2024, he instructed the GPF’s Finance Officer to submit 221 payment vouchers to him to procure goods from his wife’s business, but these vouchers were never returned.

Again, on November 16, 2023, the Finance Officer was instructed by the ACP to prepare a cheque to the tune of $20 million to purchase police regulation shoes for the Quartermasters stores, but those were never supplied.

In addition, several other charges related to purchase of lands were read to Brutus. Although SOCU had filed in excess of 200 charges against this serving member of the GPF, only 30 were

dealt with on Thursday.

In light of these charges, Brutus was placed on bail at the sum of $6.2 million for two counts of money laundering charges, two counts of larceny by a public officer, and two counts relating to obtaining money by false pretence.

Bail was posted hours after the court hearing, and he will return to court on November 18, 2024, to face the remaining charges.

Other charges

The ACP’s wife, was slapped with two counts of money laundering, and was granted $1 million bail. SOCU alleged that during December 2023, Aulder withdrew the sums of $243

million and $180 million from two separate Republic Bank accounts registered to her businesses, and these sums allegedly were derived directly or indirectly from the proceeds of crime.

Further, Brutus and Sergeant Kevin George have jointly been charged for allegedly withdrawing $22 million from the GPF’s procurement office on January 9, 2024. It was revealed that George never made himself available for questioning, but his lawyers did indicate that SOCU seized the defendant’s vehicle containing his passport and Identification Card, among other documents.

Charged: Adonika Aulder

Top Cop Cliffton Hicken Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

Assistant Police Commissioner (ACP) Calvin Brutus

First encounter with Narendra Modi

P2 viciously attacked by jaguar at Guyana-Brazil border

In a harrowing incident near the remote GuyanaBrazil border, two individuals were viciously attacked by a jaguar- one of South America’s most formidable predators.

The attack has left the victims with severe injuries.

Guyana Times understands that the female and male victims are reported to be husband and wife, both Guyanese, working at a ranch across the border.

cation reflected a clear depiction of the jaguar’s powerful jaw and sharp claws on both the man and woman.

The female sustained deep gashes tearing through multiple layers of skin and muscle open around her arms, back, head and breast, among others.

Meanwhile, half of the man’s face was bitten off. In the video he was seen struggling to breath.

rime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, is scheduled to visit Guyana for two days, after attending the Nov 18/19 G-20 Summit in neighbouring Brazil. There is great anticipation in the air for a host of reasons, not least being the cultural affinities between his country and ours, occasioned by over two-thirds of the 239,000 Indian indentured labourers shipped in from undivided India between 1838 and 1917 deciding to make this land their home. Those relations were broadened and deepened in the post-WWII era as India trailblazed the movement for independence from the British Empire that ruled over us.

It was not an accident that Jagan and Burnham flew to India after Winston Churchill ousted their party from government in 1953 after only 133 days in office; they expected a sympathetic hearing from the first colony to gain independence from Britain. While no Indian Guyanese political leader has echoed the analogous sentiment expressed by Mia Mottley of Barbados and Keith Rowley of T&T after the first Africa/CARICOM Summit (“I am not African because I was born in Africa, but because Africa was born in me”), ancestral emotions remain strong.

Sri Modi’s imminent visit, however, brings back memories of my first meeting with him over 31 years ago. In New York City, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad America-VHPA (World Hindu Council-America), which was founded by Indians from the subcontinent, had organized an International Hindu Conference in 1984 at Madison Square Garden. With the Indians from Guyana and Trinidad struggling to establish their institutions -- mandirs and masjids, and some of us had launched the Indo-Caribbean Federation that year - the scale of the event was staggering. Contacts between the two communities were initiated, and we collaborated with the launch of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) -- which was “secular” -- in 1989. I

was a member of the delegation to the Caribbean that organized the attendance of Dr Jagan and Basdeo Panday.

The head of the VHPA was an engineer, Mahesh Mehta from the Boston area, who is one of the most indefatigable organizers I have ever met. From 1990, he started planning Global Vision 2000 to bring Hindus from across the globe together in commemorating the 100th anniversary of Swami Vivekananda’s 1993 historic address to the World Conference of Religions in Chicago. I had returned home by then, and was part of a Caribbean Delegation that included Raviji Maharaj and Dr Vijai Nayaransingh of Trinidad and Ramesh Kallicharran from Queens. Global Vision was a three-day even held between Aug 7th and 9th at Washington DC’s giant indoor 45,000seat sports arena, Capital Center. There were over 10,000 attendees, and the event included several breakout sessions along with the plenary gathering. I was asked to participate in a panel discussion in one of the breakout sessions on the theme “Retention of Hindu values in the Overseas Hindi Samaj”, and one of my co-panellists was introduced as Narendra Damodaras Modi, a BJP karyakarta (worker).

The other co-panellist I remember was Vijaya Raje Scindia, known popularly as “Rajmata Scindia”, another BJP official and consort of the last ruling Maharaja of the princely state of Gwalior. In the attached picture, Rajmata Scindia and I are applauding a point made by Sri Modiji in response to a question from the audience.

In his main presentation, Modiji was very passionate, and conveyed a very coherent vision of being guided by Hindu values in all aspects of life, public and private. Informed that I had returned to Guyana after twenty years, following studies and work in the US (law), to work at the grassroots, he questioned me closely on the challenges faced by the community.

I gathered that he had spent several weeks during the previous month as a guest of the US State Department and the American Council of Young Political Leaders that conducted a programme for young foreign politicians to become exposed to American political, social and economic institutions. He interacted with a wide array of American leaders, and travelled widely, including to Hoston and the American West. Like Gandhi, he appeared to “want the cultures of all lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible. But I refuse to be blown off my feet by any.”

I was not surprised at his later meteoric rise in Indian politics.

A resident near the area told this publication that the couple were working when the jaguar traversing the pathway furiously attacked the male, then proceed to attack the female victim.

“We don’t know who are the owners of the ranch but what we do know is that they were working on the ranch across the border, and they were attacked by a jaguar, while trying to enter the ranch, the paddock of the ranch”.

“And they had a battle, a fight with the jaguar. It attacked him and his spouse, or his wife, and both of them were brutally injured. And he managed to kill the jaguar, however, by stabbing it with a long knife,” he said.

Both individuals were severely injured as a result of the incident. Video footage of the aftermath seen by this publi-

According to the resident both victims were transported to a hospital in Brazil for medical treatment.

Brutus withdraws another court...

In addition, businessman Asif Zafarally and Brutus have jointly been charged for allegedly withdrawing $71 million from the GPF’s Consumer Cooperative Society for goods that were never supplied.

Sergeant George and Zafarally have each been placed on $500,000 bail, and have been instructed to report to Superintendent Mahadeo Singh every second Friday of the month until the determination of their matters.

Investigation

The investigation began in July 2024, when Brutus was placed on administrative leave after suspicion arose regarding financial irregularities. Initially linked to the Police Force’s Credit Union, the investigation quickly expanded following information provided by the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).

The assets of ACP Calvin Brutus include $300 million in properties and $500 million across joint bank accounts with his wife. As a result, all

of these accounts have been frozen, except his salary account.

As part of the case, it has been revealed that Brutus received monetary gifts from two individuals. These gifts included US$10,000 as a wedding present and $1,000,000 as a Christmas gift in 2023. After the completion of the investigations, SOCU had approached the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on the way forward. The DPP gave SOCU the green light to move. (G1)

Ravi Dev

The dead jaguar Injuries the woman sustained

Far left is Narendra Modi, far right is Ravi Dev, on his immediate left is Rajmata Scindia

Fire erupts at Fireside Suites hotel

…rapid response contains blaze

Amajor fire erupted at the Fireside Suites hotel on Garnett Street, Georgetown on Saturday afternoon, casting thick black plumes of smoke over

Georgetown. The blaze, which began around 14:50h, engulfed the rooftop power room of the three-story building and threatened the densely built neighborhood

until the swift intervention of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) brought it under control.

The fire started in the power room located on the

roof, which housed the building’s air conditioning units and generators, adding complexity to the firefighting efforts. According to Fire Chief Gregory Wickham, emer-

gency crews were alerted at 14:53h and arrived on the scene within three minutes. Their rapid response was important in containing the flames and preventing further destruction.

“The roof of the building was already ablaze when our first team arrived,” Wickham recounted. “Two more fire trucks quickly followed, enabling us to contain the fire before it spread to neighboring structures.”

He credited the use of the Bronto Skylift—a specialised aerial firefighting platform— with allowing firefighters to approach the flames from above. This maneuver was essential in preventing the fire from reaching nearby wooden buildings, which could have resulted in widespread damage.

Residents and nearby tenants quickly reacted as smoke filled the air. Zimbabwean national Wazanae Michinere Ipikanongoere, who lives in an adjacent building, described his initial response.

“I was watching videos when my neighbour, Gerardo from

from us. If it had been blowing in our direction, it could have been much more dangerous with all these wooden buildings nearby.”

Cuba, alerted me,” he said. “We ran outside and saw the smoke. We were ready to use buckets if it came to that, but within minutes the fire brigade arrived and got to work.”

Ipikanongoere expressed gratitude for the firefighters’ rapid response. “They set up fast, and thankfully, the breeze was blowing away

The swift containment was crucial, as any delay could have led to a larger disaster. Fire Chief Wickham underscored the importance of rapid communication in emergencies. “I want to thank the person who raised the alarm. Every second counts in these situations. Because of that call, we managed to respond in time to keep the fire from spreading beyond the initial building.”

Once the flames were subdued, firefighters remained on-site to ensure all residual pockets of heat were extinguished to prevent any chance of reignition. Wickham noted that further investigation would be conducted to determine the exact cause of the fire. (G9)

Fire Chief Gregory Wickham

The Fireside Suites on fire

FGMOs in Guyana: Not a question of existence, but of regulation

or thousands of years, humans have relied on traditional modification techniques, such as selective breeding and crossbreeding, to cultivate plants and animals with desirable traits. However, these methods often lacked precision and took considerable time to yield desired results. The advent of genetic engineering in the 1970s brought a transformative shift, enabling scientists to modify organisms more precisely and efficiently by incorporating specific genes, even from unrelated species. This advancement gave rise to genetically modified organisms (GMOs) — organisms engineered for improved agricultural performance or valuable pharmaceutical production. Today, the discussion around GMOs in Guyana is not about whether they exist, but about how effectively they are monitored and regulated.

Guyana, with its rich agricultural heritage, faces the dual challenge of enhancing food security while safeguarding its environment and biodiversity. The focus, therefore, must be on establishing a robust and transparent regulatory framework to manage GMOs in a manner that aligns with national goals for sustainable agriculture and environmental protection. The Environmental Protection Agency, as outlined by the EPA Act Cap 20:05, is the regulator, and has a responsibility to monitor GMO activities. In doing so, the country would have signed on to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to the Convention on Biological Diversity. The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to the Convention on Biological Diversity is an international agreement which aims to ensure the safe handling, transport, and use of living-modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology that may have adverse effects on biological diversity, taking also into account risks to human health. It was adopted on 29 January 2000, and entered into force on 11 September 2003.

Key regulatory frameworks and institutional roles NAREI's mandate for plant genetic resources

The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) is recognized as Guyana's national focal point for the management of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. Since 1994, NAREI has been explicitly acknowledged by the International Conference and Programme for Plant Genetic Resources (ICPPGR) as being responsible for a wide variety of genetic stocks, including GMOs, conventionally-bred varieties, special genetic stocks, farmer-bred varieties, wild relatives, etc. NAREI's research covers crops like peppers, sweet potatoes, cassava, coconut, pineapple, and others with commercial potential, in line with its mandate to strengthen the nation’s agricultural programme.

While NAREI manages these resources, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the only agency authorized to grant permission for bioprospecting activities. This distinct responsibility of the EPA emphasizes its critical role in ensuring environmental safety and ethical access to the country's biodiversity.

Given the overlapping responsibilities, establishing clear boundaries and mutual responsibilities between NAREI and the EPA is essential. For instance, EPA and NAREI must collaborate on managing wild relatives of indigenous crops in order to prevent potential disruptions to biodiversity. Such inter-agency cooperation would ensure alignment of NAREI’s agricultural research with EPA’s environmental guidelines, including the development of natural pesticides, without compromising either objective.

Benefits of GMOs for Guyana

Despite the regulatory challenges, GMOs present significant benefits for Guyana’s agricultural sector:

1. Increased agricultural productivity: GMOs can be engineered to withstand pests, diseases, and harsh weather conditions; leading to higher crop yields. This is crucial for key exports like rice and sugar in a country prone to unpredictable weather patterns.

2. Reduction in pesticide and herbicide use: The introduction of crops such as Bt cotton and Bt corn, which produce a natural insecticide, could reduce the need for chemical treatments, thereby lowering costs for smallholder farmers and reducing environmental impact.

3. Enhanced nutritional value: Nutrient-enriched GM crops can address malnutrition issues that are prevalent in certain regions of Guyana. For example, in March 2024, aiming to combat nutritional deficiencies and improve public health outcomes, Guyana introduced a biofortified rice variety enriched with zinc.

4. Climate change adaptation: With Guyana’s agriculture facing climate risks, the development of GM crops that are resilient to flooding, droughts, and other adverse conditions is essential for ensuring food security and protecting farmers’ livelihoods.

Considerations and challenges for introducing GMOs

While the benefits are clear, several considerations must be addressed to ensure the safe and sustainable integration of GMOs into Guyana's agricultural landscape. Among these are:

1. Environmental impact: Introducing GMOs poses risks to native plant species and local ecosystems. The potential crossbreeding with wild relatives could disrupt Guyana’s biodiversity. Careful assessment and regulations are needed to prevent environmental harm.

2. Regulatory framework: A well-structured regulatory framework is essential to monitor the cultivation and distribution of GMOs. Regulations should encompass labelling, environmental protection, and food safety in order to build consumer and international trade partner trust.

3. Information sharing and stakeholder collaboration: Stakeholders in Guyana have called for increased information sharing and a transparent database on international exchanges of plant materials. A clear framework for data sharing would facilitate better decision-making and policy formulation.

Conclusion

Guyana stands at a critical juncture, where embracing GMOs could lead to significant advancements in agriculture and food security. However, this must be done cautiously, with a strong regulatory framework that prioritizes environmental protection, public safety, and transparency. With effective collaboration between NAREI, the EPA and other stakeholders, Guyana can harness the benefits of GMOs while ensuring sustainable and ethical agricultural development.

“I have a phoenix within me and I will rise from the ashes” – Ravi Latchman

…details journey of rebuilding business gutted by fire; trying to save brother’s life

After his business of ten years was burned to the ground in April 2024, Ravi Latchman was left to pick up the pieces and rebuild from scratch.

Now compounded by other complexities in life, such as a sick father and a brother in need of life-saving surgery, Latchman is determined to not let those challenges keep him down.

Latchman is the owner of the popular Indian clothing store ‘Colours of India’, which was devastated by a fire about seven months ago. The 31-year-old entrepreneur lost millions of dollars in that Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice blaze, which also destroyed a mechanic shop owned by his family.

Though he had felt at rock bottom for a while, Latchman quickly mustered the strengthen to get back into business and start rebuilding. He is currently renting a space at a mall in Rosignol, where he operates his clothing business. The determined entrepreneur is also relying heavily on online platforms to connect with customers. In fact, he often personally delivers items to his wide range of clients from out of the jurisdiction, such as in Georgetown – but it is a task that he humbly assumes.

The day of the fire

In an interview with Guyana Times, Latchman said the day of the fire would forever leave a scar in his memory, but he has to put aside the sadness, disappointment and fear in order to move on with life.

ish from my mind. I am scarred mentally for life. It's not something easy to work and build from scratch and watch it go up in flames,” he noted. At the time of the fire, the entrepreneur was out of the country.

“When I got the call, when I saw the flames, I just went blank. I collapsed, and found myself on the bed where my family was trying to comfort and revive me. When I called back, the entire building was gone. After the fire, I didn't know what steps to take, because all I had -- my savings, and also I was preparing for my 10th year anniversary sale, where I had already started investing in stocks -- all I invested in the new stocks went (up) in flames,” he explained.

“The day of the fire is something I wish can van-

Neither the buildings nor his business had been in-

sured.

Ask for help

After the fire, Latchman recalled turning to social media to ask for help.

“…because I didn't know what else to do or provide for my family. I did get help from generous persons, and my friends and customers came together and planned fundraisers to help me also to get back on my feet,” the man expressed with much gratitude.

“The need to provide for my family kept me going, because I am the breadwinner for my family. My father is not healthy, so you can say I am the man of the house. The help I got, I used it and invested in new stocks and started back my business,” he disclosed.

Ravi Latchman’s business of ten years - Colours of India - was burnt to the ground on April 26, 2024

aims to revolutionise automotive care with new ‘auto spa’ Vivaanta

Vivaanta has become a well-known brand in Guyana for its authentic ayurvedic wellness and spa experience.

Now, they are venturing into the automotive industry with the launch of the ‘Vivaanta Auto Spa’, offering advanced touchless car wash and detailing services.

The Vivaanta Spa was established in Guyana in 2019 by the Mehra family, originally from India, but who had been living and investing in Trinidad for over a decade.

After residing in Guyana for some five years, the father-son duo, Nitin Mehra and Karan Mehra said they recognised the need for an automotive care service that aligns with the country’s growing economy.

“We chose this venture because of the country’s growing demand for modern, efficient services and the increasing awareness of sustainability. Guyana is a dynamic market with vast potential for innovation, and we’re excited to contribute to its economic growth while offering something new to our local consumers,” Karan explained.

“After successfully contributing to our clients and the local community in the spa industry, we recognised the need for a service that’s

both high-quality and environmentally responsible in the automotive sector.

This led to the creation of Vivaanta Auto Spa as a way to bring that same level of care and innovation to vehicles,” he added.

This auto spa facility, located at the corner of Duncan and Sheriff Streets, Georgetown, will have its grand opening ceremony on Friday, November 15, 2024, at 17:00h.

According to the company, its touchless car wash system not only protects ve-

hicles but also minimises environmental impact by reducing the need for harsh chemicals.

“Customers can expect a quick and hassle-free experience, whether they require a simple wash or comprehensive detailing services, including waxing, steaming, interior cleaning, and engine cleaning,” the company

explained.

Equipped with state-ofthe-art automated systems, Vivaanta Auto Spa guarantees a thorough clean without compromising the integrity of the vehicle’s architecture.

These systems employ high-pressure water jets, gentle cleaning solutions, and advanced drying technology to deliver an unmatched level of care and precision.

For now, the auto spa

has created employment for about twelve persons, including Guyanese and foreigners alike and as the business grows, more opportunities will become available.

While not sharing specifics on the price structure, the company assured that “our pricing is competitive, and we offer a variety of packages to suit different needs.”

Meanwhile, according to Vivaanta, it looks forward becoming a trusted name in the automotive care industry in Guyana, just as it has done in the wellness sector.

“We’re excited to be part of Guyana’s growing economy and to introduce a fresh, sustainable, and high-tech service to the automotive sector,” said Nitin Mehra.

“I have a phoenix within me

Though he is operating on a much smaller scale now, Latchman said, the goal is to re-establish his store at its former location. Having obtained a loan, Latchman has already started the process of rebuilding.

Life’s complexities

However, being the breadwinner of his family, Latchman also has to find finance to not only rebuild his business, but to support his sick father, and brother who has a brain tumor. To do this, Latchman has tapped into his talent and passion for cooking. Despite being made fun of, Latchman says, he thoroughly enjoys cooking, and would have, in the past, volunteered his services for big events such as weddings.

But now he has transformed his skills into a business, and so far, the venture has proven successful.

“I cater for many events as of present. I get bookings to cook for wakes, funerals, birthdays, thanksgiving, pooja, weddings, and also private events. I do private caterings as well,” he explained.

However, it is not the easiest of tasks.

“The challenges I face with cooking (are) the heat and prepping. Prepping isn't easy, especially when I have to cook in very large amounts. Facing that fireside heat is not easy; when I'm

finished (cooking, I) just feel like I want to jump into a pool of water to cool my body out,” the entrepreneur expressed.

Despite the challenges, Latchman is determined to ‘keep grinding’. He is motivated by the need to raise enough money to fund his brother’s operation.

“This is the reason I started pushing myself even more with the cooking…He cannot get help in Guyana, and the most affordable country that can do the surgery is India… I'm trying to raise the funds

to take him, but it's so hard for me because things are so expensive, but I am still pushing myself,” Latchman disclosed.

“My baby brother told me, ‘Buddy, I know it's a lot on you, but don't go on the internet and ask for help, before anyone bash us.’ And he doesn't want anyone crying on his surgery,” Latchman disclosed.

Criticisms

His brother’s advice came on the heels of Latchman be-

ing a victim of online bullying.

“Persons who have no idea of what I have been through started spreading gossip and fabrications about me. Fake profiles were created targeting me and saying all kind of awful things about me,” Latchman recalled, as he noted that he had to really try to blank out the negativity.

“Persons started saying how I burned down my business for insurance money, where I had no insurance…I

was accused of taking the help I had to buy brand name clothing and flying and partying, whereas all the clothing I was wearing was stuff given to me,” Latchman disclosed. Nevertheless, the businessman is using the negativity to fuel his motivation.

“I'm using all of the false rumours and gossips as a motivation to push myself to show the haters who Ravi Latchman is, and they can never bring me down, and I will rise and overcome…”

The future Though the cooking venture started out as a means to fund his brother’s operation, Latchman says he plans to keep at it for “as long as I can manage”.

In fact, his vision is to open a restaurant next to his re-established ‘Colours of India’ boutique at its former location at Bath Settlement.

“So, when customers finish shopping, they can enjoy a delicious meal; that’s my dream,” he disclosed.

But for now, Latchman says, he will continue hustling, unwaveringly taking on life’s challenges one by one.

“I have been through so much for the year, and I feel like it's not ending,” he lamented. But, according to the determined young man, “I have a phoenix within me, and I will rise from the ashes!”

Latchman also finds encouragement in messages he receives, sometimes from total strangers who see him and his story as an inspiration.

“Many people are in my inbox telling me how much of a motivation I am to them. They don't know what they would have done if they were in my shoes, but they see my hustle and my struggles. They said if I can push myself and do it, then so can they.”

Ravi Latchman has turned his passion for cooking into a business

Man charged after multiple fraud incidents at police station, Housing Ministry

A33-year-old Georgetown man, has been remanded to prison on three separate fraud charges amid accusations of repeat offences. Kitt, who resides at Lot 99 Subryanville, Georgetown, appeared before Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday, where he pleaded not guilty to all charges.

However, bail was denied for Quincy Kitt, after both the prosecution and Magistrate citing concerns over his alleged fraudulent behaviour.

The court heard that Kitt is accused of carrying out a series of deceptive schemes targeting individuals seeking assistance. The prosecutor presented details of three separate incidents where

Kitt allegedly obtained money from victims under false pretence. The prosecution argued that Kitt’s actions were serious, premeditated, and part of an ongoing trend, warranting his continued detention.

The first charge against Kitt involved an alleged incident at the Providence Police Station on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) in May. According to reports, Kitt approached a woman whose husband was in police custody. He reportedly claimed he could secure the husband’s release on bail if she paid him a sum of money. Believing Kitt's promises, the woman handed over $400,000, only to later discover that no bail arrangements had been made by Kitt, and police of-

ficials were unaware of any such deal. Kitt allegedly disappeared with the funds.

The second charge involves Khaleel Buell, whom Kitt allegedly deceived with claims that he could secure a plot of land for him through Government connections. Kitt allegedly told Buell that he worked closely with officials in the Housing Ministry and could fast-track the acquisition process. Buell reportedly paid Kitt over $1.9 million, expecting the promised assistance. However, Kitt allegedly left the Government office leaving Buell defrauded.

22 lives lost in motor lorry accidents so far for 2024

– Home Affairs Ministry

The third charge involves an alleged scheme involving Desi Hiliman, whom Kitt reportedly convinced he could purchase raw gold for. It was stated that Kitt ap- proached Hiliman through a mutual friend and presented a deal involving raw gold from the interior. Believing Kitt’s story, Hiliman handed over $1 million, expecting the gold purchase to go through. However, after receiving the money, Kitt allegedly ceased communication with Hiliman and failed to deliver any gold or provide a refund.

Some 22 persons have lost their lives in 2024 to motor lorry accidents, and with just weeks left in the year.

To prevent further tragedies, the Home Affairs Ministry has partnered with the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC), and companies like AKT Motorcycles/Unicomer and Ansa McAl to launch the “Do the Right Thing” campaign as part of Road Safety Month 2024. The initiative aims to boost awareness and encourage safer behaviour on Guyana’s busy roads—particularly around large trucks, whose blind spots have led to deadly accidents.

“A central message of the campaign is the need for caution around large trucks, which have extensive blind spots that limit the driver’s visibility of other road users,” the Ministry said in a statement.

The Ministry emphasised that each life lost represents a family torn apart and that even a small habit, like staying mindful of a truck’s blind spots, could mean the difference between life and death.

Large trucks are vital for transporting goods across Guyana, yet they pose unique dangers due to their blind spots. Unlike cars, motor lorries have significant visibility

challenges, with areas around the front, sides, and rear where the driver cannot easily see other road users. The Ministry hopes to address this often-overlooked risk with an illustrated guide highlighting these blind spots, urging drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to avoid them whenever possible.

“The Ministry urges all road users to ‘Do the Right Thing’ by staying vigilant, avoiding these blind spots whenever possible, and respecting the limitations of large vehicles,” the Ministry’s statement added. “Keeping out of truck blind spots is a simple step that can help make the road safer for everyone.”

Though the current death

toll of 22 is slightly down from last year’s 24 during the same period, the Ministry recognises there is more work to be done. Through community outreach, posters, and media coverage, the “Do the Right Thing” campaign seeks to instill a sense of shared responsibility across the nation, reminding all road users that safety starts with awareness and respect.

The campaign’s reach goes beyond just drivers. “It’s not just a message for drivers,” they continued. “Cyclists, pedestrians, parents, everyone—if we all look out for each other and stay out of these dangerous blind spots, we can reduce these tragic incidents. Road safety is in everyone’s hands.”

Chief Magistrate McGusty agreed with the prosecution’s position, refusing to grant bail based on the seriousness of the charges and the fact that Kitt is already on bail for similar offences.

The prosecution argued that Kitt’s continued engagement in fraudulent activities while out on bail showed a disregard for the law and posed a risk of further crimes if released. The prosecutor also noted that Kitt is before the court on multiple fraud-related charges, demonstrating a pattern of behaviour that warrants close monitoring and detention.

In his defence, Kitt attempted to persuade the court to consider bail, claiming that he had previously been granted bail due to safety concerns after an alleged attempt on

his life while in prison. However, Magistrate McGusty dismissed his concerns, responding, “Don’t worry, I will ask the prisons to take good care of you”. Kitt is scheduled to return to court on November 29, 2024, for further proceedings.

In August last year, Kitt appeared before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where he faced charges of obtaining money under false pretences. It was alleged that between July 7 and 13 2023 at Brickdam, Georgetown, Kitt obtained $1,700,000 from Romario Chandrapaul by falsely claiming he could secure a young professional home through the Ministry of Housing and Water.

Further, between August 21 and 23, 2023 Kitt allegedly obtained an additional $500,000 from Roopnarine Sammy under similar pretences, again promising to arrange a home through the Ministry. He pleaded not guilty to both charges, but the police prosecutor objected to bail due to the seriousness and prevalence of the offence, as well as Kitt's history of similar cases. As a result, Kitt was also remanded in that case but was later released on bail. (G9)

A recent accident where a truck turned turtle in Lethem, Region Nine. One person died in the accident

The woman at Lusignan Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara, was trying to cross the road just seconds before she was crushed by a sand truck

Charged: Quincy Kitt hid his face as he was escorted from court

ExxonMobil completes US$1.2B purchase of Prosperity FPSO

…1 year ahead of lease expiration

ExxonMobil Guyana, which has been leasing the Prosperity Floating production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel that is servicing the third oil project offshore Guyana, has now purchased the vessel outright in a more than US$1 billion deal.

According to information released by Dutch shipbuilder SBM Offshore, ExxonMobil Guyana has completed the US$1.23 billion cash consideration purchase of the Prosperity FPSO vessel. The purchase was done one year ahead of the max expiration term of its lease with SBM for use of the vessel, which would have been November of next year.

The Prosperity FPSO has been on hire since November 2023, when the Payara oil development first delivered first oil. According to SBM, ExxonMobil will now continue its operation and maintenance of the project, combining their expertise with SBM’s.

“The purchase allows ExxonMobil Guyana to assume ownership of the unit while SBM Offshore will continue to operate and maintain the FPSO up to 2033. The transaction comprises a total cash consideration of US$1.23 billion,” SBM explained.

“The net cash proceeds will primarily be used for

the full repayment of the US$0.98 billion project financing and as such will decrease SBM Offshore’s net debt position. The impact of the transaction will be included in the update of the Company’s 2024 guidance as part of the Third Quarter 2024 Trading Update, scheduled for November 14, 2024.”

It had previously been reported that Exxon was mulling the early purchase of the Prosperity FPSO. As a matter of fact, the Liza Destiny FPSO which services the first oil development and has a max lease term that extends to 2029, was also reported to be on their radar.

The Liza Destiny and Prosperity FPSOs are two of three FPSOs currently operating in Guyana’s offshore waters. The other one, Liza Unity, is producing oil in the Stabroek Block’s Liza Phase 2 development.

ExxonMobil completed the purchase of the Liza Unity FPSO from SBM Offshore for some US$1.26 billion in November 2023. The vessel had been on hire since February 2022, and in 2023 had been operated through the integrated operations and maintenance model, wherein SBM Offshore and ExxonMobil’s expertise and experience had been combined.

At the time of that pur-

chase the transaction had been completed a few months ahead of the end of the maximum lease term, which was set for February 2024. SBM Offshore has notwithstanding been tasked with continuing to operate and maintain the FPSO up to 2033.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Exxon, through its local subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), holds 45 per cent interest therein. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds the remaining 25 per cent interest.

Six FPSOs are expected to be operating offshore Guyana by 2027. The fourth FPSO, dubbed the ‘One Guyana’ FPSO, is currently being built by SBM, which had in 2022 been contracted by Exxon to construct, install, and then lease and operate the vessel. When completed, this vessel would operate in the Yellowtail development. It is expected to begin producing oil in the second half of next year, when production is expected to reach 250,000 barrels of oil per day. SBM’s latest update on the project is that it is 75 per cent completed.

The fifth FPSO, which would be named ‘Errea Wittu’, meaning “abundance” in the Warrau Indigenous language, would meanwhile operate in the Urau project. It would have an oil storage capacity of two million barrels, an oil production design rate of 250,000 barrels per day, and be able to offload approximately one million barrels onto a tanker in approximately 24 hours. This vessel would be delivered by MODEC, a Japanese company that has confirmed construction of this FPSO.

Start-up of the US$12.7 billion Urau development is targeted for 2026.

‘Jaguar’, the sixth FPSO, is earmarked for Exxon’s Whiptail project. Government has said that by the time this FPSO comes online in 2027, Guyana is expected to be producing as much as 1.2 million barrels of oil per day. This FPSO is currently in the final stages of construction.

COFONA band of New Amsterdam honoured

COFONA band of New Amsterdam which has been engaged in activities not only in the township of New Amsterdam but the entire country honoured.

The band was formed out of a need for accompanying music at parades in the town when the police were unavailable. It is the brainchild of Dr Maurice Lewis.

The band came into being in 2011. The band once took an 85-member orchestra to play at the national programme for the country’s independence celebrations

In a collaborative effort between the New Amsterdam Municipality and United Bridge Builders Mission of the USA reconised the contributions made by members of the programme towards the town’s development.

During a recognisation ceremony held at the Town Hall recently, which formed part of the Town Day celebrations in observance of the town’s 132 anniversary as a Municipality, CEO and Founder of United Bridge

Builders Mission Inc, Bonita Montaque, called on the band members to pride themselves noting that as has already happened where some band members were invited to North America to showcase their skills, the band as a unit will be moving places.

“As young musicians, I don’t want you to go away after today that you are a part of a band that goes nowhere. You will now be recognised as the band of the town and beyond. When we say beyond, we are speaking internationally.”

She said it order for this to be realized, band members will have to be disciplined and consistent.

Referred to as a programme where participants learn to read music and play instruments also focuses on the molding of participants.

“And while you play the instruments, understand that academics and school are equally important. Focus on keeping your grades up and persons will see you and recognise your work and ef-

forts and they will open doors for you and create opportunities for you to excel,” she added.

Meanwhile, New Amsterdam’s Mayor Wainwright McIntosh said the band has made residents of the town proud, noting that each member would have made a lasting impact on the town. He cautioned them to keep learning and remain in school and also to use their talent to make a difference.

Under the programme, participants and provided to sit examinations in the musical field from reputable schools.

Only recently at the Guyana Music Teachers ceremony, members of the band took away several top awards. Mentor of the programme Marcy Jackman explained that under the programme, members are provided with academic after-school tuition (lessons) where needed, and through the programme band members have their school exam fees paid. (G4)

The Prosperity FPSO

The COFONA band performing

Gas-to-Energy

Project could pay for itself in 8 years with liquified natural gas (LNG) sales – VP

While the Gas-toEnergy (GtE) Project has a 20 year pay back period to amortise the project at US$55 million per year, Guyana could repay the project costs in just eight years through the sale of Liquified natural gas (LNG).

This point was made by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, during a recent press conference where he explained that in theory, if they sold the LNG at the Free On Board (FOB) price, they could generate US$106 million in revenue per year.

“So, the cost to the Guyanese tax payers for generating power, is zero. We’re getting the power practically for free. Because we’re paying back for the whole project from the sale of the LNG, that is the liquids we’re getting when we clean the gas to go to the power plant. If we utilise the retail price at which that gas, like the cooking gas is sold to people. And we multiply the retail price times the volume.”

“That’s over US$250 million. We can repay the whole project from that alone, if we sell it. Of course, we’re not going to sell it at the current price. But if we use the economics there. In eight years or

so, we’ll be able to amortise the entire project without a cent coming from the treasury,” Jagdeo further explained.

According to the Vice President, the revenue this project can generate, in addition to the savings for consumers who will get cheaper, more reliable power, is phenomenal. He made it clear that the feasibility of the project is self-evident.

“This is a phenomenal project, because remember we’re getting the gas for free. And we’ve already said to people, just from the lowering of the cost of electricity, consumers will save $250 million. These numbers are shocking to me and I’m an economist. Then you

see how feasible a project of this nature is,” Jagdeo added.

During a presentation at the Guyana Energy Conference (GEC) and Expo, GtE Project head Winston Brassington had explained that a sum of US$55 million would be paid to ExxonMobil annually to allow the oil major to recover the US$1 billion spent on the pipelines. He had stressed that Guyana is only paying for the pipeline infrastructure, not the gas.

The scope of Guyana’s GtE Project consists of the construction of 225 kilometres of pipeline from the Liza field in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana,

Police charge man with murder of Antiguan MP

Police in Antigua charged a man Saturday with murder in the stabbing death this week of a controversial member of parliament in his seaside home.

Police charged 26-yearold Alexta Francis two days after the landscaper was arrested and questioned about the killing of Asot Michael. Francis was due to make his first appearance in court on Monday.

Authorities said Francis didn't yet have legal representation and it wasn't immediately clear where he was being held Saturday.

In a statement, Police Commissioner Atlee Rodney commended inves-

tigators ''for their diligence and professionalism in handling the matter.'' He later told The Associated Press that the police had no plans to disclose the motive, but would instead allow it to be revealed in court.

Michael, 54, was an independent member of Parliament and a wealthy businessman who ascended through the ranks of the governing Antigua & Barbuda Labour Party to serve as a minister. Although he was well known for being a philanthropist among his constituency, he was also barred from running on the party's ticket after various controversies, including an international bribery scandal for which he has denied wrongdoing.

He successfully ran as an independent in the 2023 election to retain his seat in parliament.

Michael was found dead on Tuesday in his home on Antigua's west coast when a housekeeper reported to work and discovered his body with multiple stab wounds.

It was the first time such a crime has been committed against a parliamentarian in the twin island state.

On Thursday, the government announced it would seek assistance from the London Metropolitan Police in investigating the high-profile killing. As a former British colony, the nation still has strong ties to Britain and in the past has requested help from London police in high-profile cases.

While their assistance will no longer be required for Michael's case, Rodney said they plan to utilize their expertise in other unsolved cases. (startribune.com)

where Exxon and its partners are currently producing oil.

It features approximately 200 kilometres of a subsea pipeline offshore that would run from Liza Destiny and Liza Unity Floating, Production, Storage, And Offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek Block to the shore. Upon landing on the West Coast Demerara (WCD) shore, the pipeline would continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the LNG plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

In last year’s national budget, the project received a $43.3 billion allocation in addition to the $24.6 billion injected into the startup of the transformational project. The Guyana Government has envisioned the startup of the GtE Project by 2025, thus realising its commitment to deliver cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable energy to the population.

There is also a planned phase two of the GtE Project. It was only in September 2024 that the Government invited interested companies to submit proposals for a second power plant and LNG facility at Wales, WBD, – the project site for the current GtE Project.

It is expected that of the 250 kilometres of 12-inch pipelines that will bring the gas onshore, only 40 per cent of the pipeline’s capacity will be used in Phase One to gas up the first power plant and LNG facility at Wales, bringing 50 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) of dry gas onshore. It was announced in

April 2023 that Guyana had applied for the loan from the US EXIM Bank to finance the US$761 million GtE Project, which includes the construction of an Integrated Liquified natural gas (LNG) plant and a 300-megawatt (MW) combined cycle power plant at Wales, WBD, utilising natural gas from the country’s offshore operations in the Stabroek Block.

In September 2024, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh met with senior officials of the US EXIM Bank in Washington DC during which discussions were held on the loan. As part of its internal due diligence process, the US EXIM Bank hired two consultants to do the technical assessment of the project. These works were done during site visits over the past year. In fact, back in June, President Dr Irfaan Ali had revealed that the feedback from those two assessments were positive. He said the teams found “no fatal flaws” from the technical and environmental due diligence work done here. (G3)

Alexta Francis

Antiguan MP Asot Michael

Model of the Gas-to-Energy Project

21-year-old electrocuted at West Berbice home

AWest Berbice labourer is now dead after being electrocuted at his home while working with an angle grinder.

Dead is 21-year-old Claymont Doris, called “Clay” of Lovely Lass Village, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice). The incident occurred last Wednesday shortly after mid-day.

Reports are that Doris returned home and took the angle grinder to cut some steel rods in the yard.

His girlfriend Carlica Craig reported that she left him working and made a brief trip to a nearby shop

and when she returned, she found him unresponsive on the ground, with the angle grinder lying on his chest.

A damaged angle grinder with exposed wiring was noticed. There were what appeared to be burnt marks on the left side of his chest.

A police officer assisted it taking the lifeless man to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

An autopsy performed on the body the following day by Government Pathologist Dr Vivekanand Bridgemohan gave the cause of death as fibrillation of the heart due to electric shock. (G4)

1st cohort of City & Guilds welding course graduates from Nations School of Technology

Nations School of Technology celebrated a milestone achievement on Friday as its inaugural cohort of students completed the City and Guilds Level 1 Award in Manual Metal Arc (MMA) Welding. This groundbreaking course, conceptualized by President Dr Irfaan Ali and supported by British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller, was made possible through funding from the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL).

The thirteen graduates, who successfully completed the course, are now poised to advance their careers in the industrial and manufacturing sectors, equipped with critical welding skills and industry-standard knowledge. The City and Guilds Level 1 Award empowers candidates to demonstrate fundamental welding skills, including the ability to execute welded joints in basic positions, skills that provide an essential foundation for careers in the welding industry. For more than 140 years, City and Guilds has championed skills development globally, focusing on the transformative power of technical education for social mobility and economic success.

Looking ahead, Nations School of Technology plans to expand its welding program by offering Levels 2 and 3 of the City and Guilds certification in 2025. These advanced courses will further enhance candidates’ abilities, including performing vertical and overhead welding, and prepare them for specialized roles within the fabrication,

oil and gas, and construction industries.

Director of Nations School of Technology, Liam O’Toole, expressed gratitude for the support that made the program possible. “We are very thankful to His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, for his vision, support, and guidance over the past 18 months as we worked to develop and locally offer the course in partnership with TGY Industrial. The Government

of Guyana has extended thousands of scholarships to Guyanese aspiring to develop technical skills, including welding. We are thrilled to provide internationally accredited vocational training here in Guyana and contribute to the development of the skilled workforce needed to support our country’s expanding industrial, mining, agriculture, and energy sectors.”

Caption: In photo are the graduants and manage-

ment team. From left are Nicholas Deygoo - Director - TGY Industrial; Treshan Budhram - Programme Manager -Nations School of Technology while (right) Aalim Speede, Welding Instructor; Avinash Karim - Internal Verifier -Nations School of Technology; Liam O’Toole - Director - Nations School of Technology; Glen Lawson - Country ManagerTGY Industrial and Elizabeth Adrian - Assistant Instructor

Red Cross in hot water as T&T Govt cuts funding

The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services (MSDFS) has temporarily withdrawn its annual subvention from the Trinidad and Tobago Red Cross Society (TTRCS).

The ministry stated both parties agreed the $730,000 grant would be provided to the NGO, contingent upon its adherence to the guidelines, which the MSDFS determined it has failed to meet.

The move was made by the ministry after a story was published in the Trinidad Guardian on October 18, in which workers anonymously spoke out about a “toxic” work environment at the TTRCS.

Earlier that same month, flyers calling for the removal of president Jill De Bourg were plastered around the Fitzblackman Drive, Port-ofSpain compound. Printed on them were reasons why she should step down.

“We had given you a chance to be our TTRCS president to bring betterment to the society, not to bring it apart,” it read. According to the ministry, the TTRCS is not currently in compliance

with the financial conditions and will not be eligible to receive the subvention until that is achieved.

The ministry said, however, it remains committed to working with the organisation.

“While the ministry is not involved in the daily management of the subvented NGOs under its purview, there is an expectation of the application of the principles of mutual understanding, fairness, equity, and equality within these environments. Mediation of issues can be a viable option in addressing workplace challenges and has proven suc-

cessful in the past, where the ministry would have referred other NGOs to mediation.,” the email read.

The ministry made it clear that the late payment of salaries to staff has no relation to the government subvention to the TTRCS. Former employees claimed infringement of personal time, late salary payments, and lack of middle management were among the issues affecting them. They alleged that De Bourg had blurred the work-life boundaries and contacted employees during vacation leave and after working hours. (T&T Guardian)

Dead: Claymont Doris, aka “Clay”

OIL NEWS

Biden administration buys last oil for emergency reserve as fund taps out

The Biden administration said on Friday it has bought its last batch of oil for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve after selling a record amount from the facility in 2022 to counter fuel prices that had risen after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The Department of Energy said it had bought 2.4 million barrels of oil for the reserve for delivery from April through May to the SPR's Bryan Mound, Texas site.

The purchase depleted the department's fund to buy back more oil for the reserve, it said. The 2022 sale of 180 million barrels of crude had raised nearly $17 billion in emergency revenue for buybacks, but Congress had rescinded about $2.05 billion to help offset the national deficit.

The Biden administration has bought back 59 million barrels after the 2022 sale at an average price of less than $76 a barrel, far lower than the $95 a barrel it sold oil in 2022. That resulted in a profit of about $3.5 billion, the DOE said.

U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said the effort cements the administration's "commitment of putting the economic and energy security of the American people first with actions that steadied prices at the pump, provided certainty to industry, and maintained the SPR as the world’s largest supply of emergency crude oil.”

The Biden administration also worked with Congress to cancel congressionally-mandated sales of 140 million barrels of SPR oil through 2027 that both Democratic and Republican lawmakers had voted for.

The U.S., however, is now the world's largest oil and gas producer, thanks to techniques such as fracking and horizontal drilling. It is more energy secure than in the mid-1970s, when Washington created the SPR, the world's largest emergency oil stash, after supply shocks including the Arab oil embargo. (Reuters)

Biden, Trump to meet at the White House on Wednesday

U.S. President Joe Biden and Presidentelect Donald Trump will meet on Wednesday at the White House on Biden's invitation, a White House spokesperson said on Saturday. Trump will take office on Jan. 20 after defeating current Vice President Kamala Harris in the Nov. 5 presidential election.

"At President Biden’s invitation, President Biden and President-elect Trump will meet in the Oval Office on Wednesday," Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement.

Biden, a Democrat, had initially sought reelection but dropped out of the race in July after a disastrous debate against the Republican Trump.

"I'm going to see him on Wednesday," Biden told reporters on Saturday, when asked whether Trump was a threat to democracy.

Biden spoke after leaving a church service in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, where he traveled for the weekend. The president did not respond to questions about what he would say to Trump. (Reuters)

Around the World

Qatar suspends role as mediator between Israel and Hamas

Qatar has suspended its work as a mediator in ceasefire and hostage release talks between Israel and Hamas, officials say.

The country said it would resume its work when Hamas and Israel "show their willingness" to negotiate.

It comes after senior US officials reportedly said Washington would no longer accept the presence of Hamas representatives in Qatar, accusing the Palestinian group of rejecting fresh proposals for an end to the war in Gaza.

Qatar said initial reports it had withdrawn from mediation talks and said that Hamas's political office in Doha "no longer serves its purpose" were "inaccurate".

"Qatar notified the parties 10 days ago during the last attempts to reach an agreement, that it would stall its efforts to mediate between Hamas and Israel if an agreement was not

reached in that round," a statement from the Qatari foreign ministry said.

"Qatar will resume those efforts... when the parties show their willingness and seriousness to end the brutal war."

Hamas has had a base in the Qatari capital since 2012, reportedly at the re-

quest of the Obama administration.

Several news agencies reported on Saturday that Qatar had agreed with the US to tell Hamas to close its political office in Doha due to "a refusal to negotiate a deal in good faith".

But the foreign ministry said the reports were "in-

accurate". The claims have also been denied by Hamas officials.

The small but influential Gulf state is a key US ally in the region. It hosts a major American air base and has handled many delicate political negotiations, including with Iran, the Taliban and Russia. (BBC)

Ecuador Govt suspends vice president from office ahead of 2025 elections

Ecuador's Labor Ministry has temporarily suspended Vice President Veronica Abad from office just three months before next year's elections in which President Daniel Noboa will seek another term.

Abad, who is also the South American country's ambassador to Israel, is accused of committing a "serious" disciplinary offense by failing to comply with an order from the foreign ministry to leave Israel and travel to Turkey before Sept. 1 due to security concerns during the conflict in Gaza, according to the resolution dated Friday but made public on Saturday.

Abad could not immediately be reached for comment. Her legal representative, Damian Armijos, said the decision had been appealed by the defense without a favorable result.

"This behavior will go down in history as an abuse of power above the Constitution, the law and rights," he said on social media platform X.

The Labor Ministry said Abad, who has a tense relationship with Noboa, would be removed from office until April without pay.

Electoral campaigns in Ecuador are scheduled to begin in January and, according to local laws,

Breast cancer rising among women aged 35 to 44 – Jamaican doctor

Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist Dr Milton Hardie is urging Jamaican women to seek early screening for breast cancer due to a rise in cases, particularly among those aged 35-44.

Dr Hardie made this disclosure at a recent forum focused on breast cancer and other critical illnesses, held at the S Hotel in Kingston.

In a press release on Friday, Dr Hardie highlighted that one in eight Jamaican women is at risk of developing breast cancer,

which is among the highest rates globally.

He recommended early detection as the most effective approach to combating the disease, including breast self-examinations for indicators such as lumps or nipple discharge, along with mammograms and ultrasound scans. “If detected at the zero stage there will be complete recovery, while there is a good chance of full recovery at stage two of the condition. The risk is most acute at stages three and four,” Hardie said.

The release cited studies

by the American Society of Clinical Oncology, published in the JCO Global Oncology Journal in 2020, which analysed breast cancer mortality between 2010 and 2014. These studies found that “breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death among Jamaican women… with 1,634 breast cancer-related deaths documented among Jamaican women between 2010 and 2014, accounting for 24 per cent of all female cancer deaths.”

The report further noted that “the age-standardised

breast cancer mortality rate rose from 21.8 per 100,000 in 2010 to 28 per 100,000 in 2014 among the total female population.”

It also highlighted that “the highest annual percentage change in breast cancer mortality was observed in the 35 to 44 and 65 to 74/75-yearold age groups,” indicating an earlier age of onset than previously reported.

Dr Hardie also pointed out that with advances in medical technology, less invasive treatments are being developed. (Jamaica Observer)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on a recent visit to Qatar

People gathered outside the White House after Republican Donald Trump won the US presidential election, in Washington, DC, US, November 6, 2024

Noboa would have to leave the vice president in her post in order to participat e. (Reuters)

Ecuador's Vice President Veronica Abad

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

GEMINI (MAY 21June 20)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) (March 21April 19)

Look over your options and work toward your goal without drawing attention to yourself. Keeping interference at a distance will help you build the momentum you require to reach your objective.

Change what you don’t like and keep moving. Stop wasting time; focus on what’s meaningful. Pick and choose pastimes that make you feel good about who you are and what you contribute.

Be wary of hype and ask pertinent questions. Taking charge and initiating a dialogue that offers solid, sound insight will save you time and money. Think about the impact of your decisions.

(June 21July 22)

Customize your day to suit your mood. Delve into something that captures your imagination and encourages you to participate. Refuse to let outside influences spoil your plans.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 23Dec. 21)

(Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19) LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

(Feb. 20Mar. 20)

Be playful and engage in something mentally and physically stimulating. Be bold, speak up and follow through with your plans. Social interaction and romance require honesty and integrity.

The choices others make will upset you. Take a moment to put yourself in the shoes of others before you say or do something you may regret. Patience will pay off, and understanding will give you the edge you need.

Getting out and participating in something looks promising. Don’t hesitate; a change to how or where you live will be worthwhile. Conversations and activities with a colleague will be revealing.

Keep your money and possessions safe. Discipline and trusting yourself to implement ideas that serve you well are within reach. Be wary of anyone pushing a questionable agenda.

Be careful; someone will try to talk you into something questionable. Don’t make promises you’ll regret or reveal personal information that puts you in a vulnerable position.

Categorize what you want to achieve and put your to-do list in place. Think outside the box and strive to enforce a strategy that pays off emotionally and financially.

Participate in something that adds to your enthusiasm. An energetic approach will attract attention and long-lasting relationships with like-minded people.

Put a stop to anything that isn’t good for you. Say no to temptation, indulgence and people trying to take advantage of you. Focus on what you can pursue that establishes you as an expert.

Peanuts

Calvin and Hobbes

Pickles

AQUARIUS

CANCER

CAPRICORN

PISCES

England tour of West Indies 2024/25: T20I Series,

England power to eight-wicket win

– through Phil Salt's century, Saqib

Asuperb unbeaten century by Phil Salt has led England to a convincing eight-wicket victory

the West Indies for a 1-0 lead in their five-match T20I series in Barbados.

Saqib Mahmood took career-best figures of 4 for 34, including three wickets in the powerplay and a tight over at the death, but that did not prevent the West Indies from blitzing their way through three key partnerships to set England a lofty target, despite having lurched to 117 for 8.

Nicholas Pooran, who topscored for the hosts, put on with captain Rovman Powell 41 runs from just 17 balls, but teamed up with Andre Russell to defy a steady flow of wickets and add 39 runs from 26 balls; and then tailenders Gudakesh Motie and Romario Shepherd, with 49 off 26, pumped up the hosts.

Their efforts ultimately proved futile in the face of Salt's remarkable 103 not out off just 54 balls. Attacking from the outset, Salt helping himself to 22 runs off one Shamar Joseph over, and never looked back.

It was a case of two second-home lads doing good, as Salt, who had spent six of his pre-teen and teenage years living in Barbados, shared an unbroken 107-run stand with Jacob Bethell, the latter raising his maiden T20I fifty to enthusiastic support from the crowd, having been born and

raised in Barbados up to the age of 13.

All-out (as)Salt When Salt struck five consecutive boundaries off Joseph to take his side past the 50mark in the fourth over of the run-chase, England looked all business. He brought up his own half-century off 25 balls with the second of three sixes to come off Motie's first over, crunched over deep midwicket before Will Jacks launched the third over long-on. Jacks fell on the next ball, bowled middle stump in attempting to sweep, but by that time England had closed out the powerplay at 73 for 1, compared to West Indies' 58 for 3.

Motie couldn't stay away from the action. His brilliant one-handed take at third removed Jos Buttler for a firstball duck. Buttler was batting at #3 on his return to action after a five-month injury lay-

SCOREBOARD

Bowling O-M-R-W Reece Topley 2.4-0-26-0 Saqib Mahmood 4-0-34-4 Jamie Overton 3.2-0-27-1 Adil Rashid 4-0-32-3

off.

For all his big hitting, Salt's deft punch for four just behind backward point off Joseph in the ninth over was prettier than any of his four sixes up to that moment, and highlighted the range of shots which comprised his innings.

Bethell mimicked the shot, slightly finer off Shepherd, as he settled into

In the (Mah)mood Mahmood struck early when Brandon King, a centurion as West Indies won the third and final ODI for a 2-1 series win, slammed his fifth ball - the 11th of the matchstraight to short cover.

In his next over, Mahmood had two wickets in as many balls when Bethell took an excellent low catch running in from the rope at deep backward square to remove Evin Lewis. Then he lured Shimron Hetmyer with a superb length ball that moved away ever so slightly as it took an edge through to Salt.

It was quite the comeback from Mahmood, playing just his third T20I since January 2022, after suffering two stress fractures in his back. His two other matches in the format since had yielded 2 for 21 and no wicket for 37 against Australia in September, but now he had 3

for 12 from two overs.

returned, to have his figures blighted by conceding 18 runs off his third over, Pooran heaving over the fence at wide long-on, threading four through deep backward point, and swinging over deep midwicket for another six.

No fear

Adil Rashid entered the attack in the seventh over, and struck with his second ball, Powell going big again but unable to clear a leaping Overton just inside the boundary at long-on.

Although he had handed the wicketkeeping gloves to Salt, returning captain Buttler sprung with the reflexes of a cat to snare a brilliant one-handed catch at slip in Rashid's next over, to re-

over his head for six by having Russell caught at deep cover by Dan Mousley. Pooran followed for 38, falling to another spectacular catch in the covers by Buttler off the bowling of Overton, Buttler launching himself high and twisting in the air.

West Indies had looked determined to go down blazing. Rashid claimed his third when he pinned Akeal Hosein at the second attempt with an excellent leg-break, and just as it looked like the hosts' fightback might fizzle, Motie strode to the crease at #10 and struck 16 runs off the first three balls he faced, including back-to-back sixes off Rashid. He had raced to 33 off just 14 balls by the time Mahmood had him caught on the deep

18.6 ov) •

just his third innings in T20Is, playing the perfect supporting role to Salt. His unbeaten 58 came off 36 balls and included an elegant six over cover off the penultimate ball. He followed that immediately with the winning runs, pulling Shepherd for two to seal victory with 3.1 overs to spare.

Salt had moved into the nineties by swinging Shepherd to square leg, where the ball shot through the fingertips of Sherfane Rutherford as he tumbled over the boundary for six more, before Salt brought up his ton in what turned out to be the last over of the game with four down the ground. It was Salt's third century in T20Is, all of them coming in the Caribbean against West Indies.

Meanwhile fellow seamer Reece Topley conceded 20 runs from 15 balls, including Powell's nurdled four through deep third, then six over square leg immediately before he slipped in his follow-through and clutched his right knee.

Topley was visibly limping as a brief rain shower arrived and sent the players from the field for just over half an hour. Topley returned after the stoppage only to be greeted by a lofted drive for six by Powell, and that was enough to send the bowler from the field for the rest of the innings with what was later confirmed to be a jarred knee.

Jamie Overton finished his third over, and Mahmood

move Rutherford.

Pooran and Russell forged a defiant partnership, Russell slamming back-to-back sixes off Rashid and moving to a 16ball 30. But Liam Livingstone managed to end their union when he responded to seeing his third ball deposited back

midwicket boundary to claim his fourth wicket of the match. It ended Motie's ninth-wicket stand with Shepherd, who ended with an unbeaten 35 off 22, their union helping West Indies to a total which had seemed so unlikely earlier. (ESPNCricInfo)

Phil Salt made his third T20I hundred, all of them in the Caribbean

Gudakesh Motie struck 33 from just 14 deliveries

Reece Topley was forced off with a jarred right knee

Saqib Mahmood made three early strikes

Windsor Estates among sponsors of ExxonMobil Guyana GSL T20

In a matter of weeks,

history will be made when the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 tournament bowls off at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, EBD.

This tournament would see four T20 franchise teams: from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Australia and England, competing against local franchise Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) for a US$1M prize purse. It is a first of its kind for the region, and would be drawing elements from the T20 Champions Trophy of years past.

During a GSL Mixer on Friday evening, Commercial Director of CPL, Jamie Stewart, highlighted the historic elements of the upcoming tournament when he declared, “We are creating

history here, and there’s a number of ways this event is creating history. It’s the first time some amongst you might remember the Champions League T20, which is really one of the

only times that teams from different leagues around the world competed against each other, and that finished quite a long time ago. So, this really is the first time we’re bring -

Softball tournament slated for Linden is powered by Sinclair Foundation

The new year would bring a new tournament to the mining town of Linden, as local organisers team up with the Kevin Sinclair Foundation to stage a male and female softball cricket tournament.

This one-day event would see four male teams and four female teams competing for over 1 million in cash and prizes in the ten overs-a- side format.

The male teams comprise Speightland, Hill Foot Vipers, Kiruni Defenders, and South Stars, while the female teams comprise Supreme Stars, 4R, Wiruni Conquerors and Young Warriors.

West Indies and Guyana all-rounder Kevin Sinclair, under whose charitable Foundation this tournament

project. Really excited to go and spread the love in Linden. Like I said, the foun-

would be sponsored, has expressed excitement at being able to do something to benefit the mining town.

“So, this is our fourth

dation is basically to touch people’s lives and bring joy and happiness throughout Guyana. So, that’s the aim, and I will continue to spread

ing teams from different parts of the world to compete in this game against your beloved Warriors.”

As he shared information with the small gathering, Stewart went on to add, “It’s the first time that we’ve had a major stand-alone cricket event in South America. It’s the first major cricket event on the continent. Other events have touched down here, but this is the first one from South America for South America.”

Friday’s event presented an opportunity to unveil housing development Windsor Estates as a sponsor. Owner of Windsor Estates, Danny Sawh, expressing elation at being a part of the upcoming competition, remarked about his company’s sponsorship, “We’re very excited and proud to support this event. We believe it can - not can work; that it will work. GSL, as with Windsor Estates, has a similar vision: that is:

to raise the standards of Guyana’s cricket, or, in our case, real estate development or housing, and take things to another level. So, we’re extremely happy to be part of this.”

The Global Super League is set to get underway on Tuesday, November 26; the grand finale is pencilled for Saturday, December 7. Tickets for the event are available online at gslt20.com or at several locations around the country.

Sacrifices worth it, as Santa Rosa relish Pee-Wee title

Having travelled all the way from Region One week after week to participate in the Courts Optical Pee-Wee football tournament, Santa Rosa Primary got the ultimate reward last Saturday when they lifted their first Courts Optical Pee-Wee Trophy.

my arms as far as I can,” Sinclair shared in an invited comment.

The all-rounder added, “Like I always mention, the slogan is ‘Aspire to make a difference’, and this project is going to be a good one for the people in Linden. It was a long time planning to do something away from Georgetown.”

Aside from position prizes, individual accolades for the best bowler, highest run- getter and best fielder are also up for grabs.

While no official date has been announced for the start of the tournament, organizers are eyeing the New Year. Sinclair, meanwhile, is already mulling his Foundation’s next stop, which he hopes to be in Essequibo.

“My next goal is to go to Essequibo and do something there for the people in that county as a part of the Foundation,” he disclosed to this publication.

Euphoric scenes attended the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground on Carifesta Avenue in Georgetown as hundreds of ecstatic Region One supporters celebrated Santa Rosa Primary needling Marian Academy 1-0 to clinch the coveted trophy.

With the game rolling over into extra time, Coach Earl Richards revealed, he was expecting the contest to go down to penalties.

“We were preparing for penalties. After every training, we did penalties, so I know that we were prepared, we were ready for penalties. So, yeah, I was very much confident going into penalties,” Richards divulged to this publication.

The first-place victory in what was their first time competing in the tournament signalled the culmination of weeks of sacrifice these young ballers had made, as told by Coach Richards.

The Santa Rosa coach explained, “First of all, even getting into the competition was a challenge, because of the geographical factor for us.

The challenge to travel every Saturday, some of the boys have to be up maybe as early as four, and we got to come, sometimes we get here just in time to play. Doing everything you can to keep them in good spirits, I know that many times they might have been tired, but we gave them the encouragement without ceasing.

“So, all of those challenges to have this now, it’s really a good feeling for us,” Richards added.

Quizzed about what this victory means, not only for the school, but the village, the coach had shared expectations of a grand celebration upon their return to Region One.

“You know, when you put in all the sacrifice and hard work, and then you get the result, it can only (be imagined) what we are feeling right now as a school,” he expressed.

Richards further explained, “As you can see, lots of persons travelled out this (last Saturday) morning, and you know that it’s expensive to get out here, find accommodation, and travel back; but lots of persons made the sacrifice. They save up and so on, travelled out here today just to be at the finals and give their support, and that alone could tell you what it means. I’m anticipating there would be some sort of

West Indies all-rounder Kevin Sinclair

CPL Commercial Director Jamie Stewart

Coach of the Santa Rosa Primary, Earl Richards Softball

The Guyana Harpy

Eagles suffered their third loss of this year’s CG United Regional Super50 tournament when they went down to the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force in a rain-affected match played on Saturday at the Queen’s Park Oval in the twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

This loss has further harmed their chances of securing a top-four spot in the tournament, which would grant them passage to the semifinal.

Rain at the Queen’s Park Oval on Saturday forced a late start to the contest and shaved off five of the 50 overs allotted each team, and a wet outfield proved to be a bugbear.

Amir Jangoo was the star of the Trinidad side. He slammed a century that was augmented by half-centuries from Kjorn Ottley and Jyd Goolie to take the Red Force to 288-3 in 45 overs.

Tion Webster fell to Nial Smith for 6, but Ottley and

Harpy Eagles downed by Red Force in rain-affected contest

Jangoo put on a 149-run second-wicket partnership that was broken only when Ottley perished for 66 from 86 deliveries.

Jangoo brought up his century shortly after, and ultimately produced an innings of 111 runs from 114 balls that was laced with 10 fours and 2 sixes before he fell prey to Ronaldo Alimohamed.

Goolie, however, kept up the tempo in the last over as he raced to an unbeaten 68 from 51 balls.

Ashmead Nedd was the

most economical Guyanese bowler with 0-28 from 6 overs; while Smith, Alimohamed and Keemo Paul shared the wickets.

Guyana’s chase got off to a rocky start, with both openers returning to the dugout with just 30 runs on the board, being undone by Anderson Phillip.

Tevin Imlach’s 12 runs from 32 balls did little by way of expectation, as the Harpy Eagles found themselves at 56-3. However, a promising 57-run partnership from

Kemol Savory and Kevlon Anderson gave the Eagles some cause for hope.

After Anderson departed for a 29-ball 32, Savory had no choice but to press on, and he was able to create small partnerships with Junior Sinclair, Ronaldo Alimohamed and Veerasammy Permaul. Regrettably, it was not enough to prevent the Eagles from losing the match.

Savory remained unbeaten on 69 from 92 balls when bad light forced the end of the day’s play with the Guyanese

side on 201-7 in 39 overs.

Unfortunately, the Harpy Eagles were 45 runs behind the DLS par-score, resulting in their losing the game.

The Harpy Eagles’ final

preliminary game will come on Monday, November 11, when they take on the West Indies Academy at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy from 13:00hrs.

SCOREBOARD

Trinidad and Tobago Red Force

b

Kjorn Ottley c KA Anderson

Did

Amir Jangoo dominated the game with a century for the Red Force

Kemol Savory hit the only half-century on the Harpy Eagles’ scorecard