Guyana Times - Thursday, May 30, 2024.pdf

NA Multilateral School acclaimed by CXC as model institution for CVQ

Guyana to object to discontinuation of 4 technical & vocational CXC subjects

…subjects offer benefits to rapid growth in oil, agri industries in Guyana – Manickchand

Cyber Crime Act

“You will learn when you go in jail” – AG to irresponsible talk show hosts

Pensioner dies in LindenSoesdyke

Highway collision

$2.5M labour complaints, info app launched

Guyanese urged to invest in agro-processing …as Guyana ramps up food production activities

EPA sounds warning over gathering Sahara Dust threat

…urges public to take precautions, wear dust masks Fire Service to establish outpost at CJIA in keeping with int’l standards

Developing States must harness technology to mitigate climate change disasters –

Guyana to object to discontinuation of 4 technical & vocational CXC subjects

…subjects offer benefits to rapid growth in oil, agri industries in Guyana – Manickchand

Guyana does not support the unofficial decision by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) to remove several technical and vocational subjects from its syllabus.

This point was made by Education Minister Priya Manickchand following the “premature release of correspondence addressed to the Ministries of Education concerning syllabus suspension”.

Among the subjects under examination are Mechanical Engineering at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level, and Green Engineering, Electrical and

Electronic Engineering and Technology, and Agricultural Science, double award, at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency (CAPE) level.

Guyana Times understands that Heads within Education Ministries across the Caribbean are scheduled to meet with the Caribbean Examinations Council on June 4 to discussion the matter.

In an interview with this publication, Manickchand explained that the Guyana’s Government is against the pulling of the subjects and it will make its position known at the upcoming stakeholders

meeting.

“I'd like to say that Guyana is one of the driving forces behind the meeting because we have had grave concerns about what appeared to be an announcement that CXC is now saying was a premature release, withdrawing some subjects from our schools from the options our children have. So, yes, we will be participating…we have an ob -

jection to that because we believe the continuation of these subjects on offer would benefit the children and people of Guyana because of the trajectory our country is heading in,” the education minister explained. According to reports, if the subjects are axed from the syllabus, students sitting the 2024 and 2025 examinations will be affected.

TURN TO PAGE 10

Education Minister Priya Manickchand

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Thursday, May 30 –23:00h-00:30h and Friday, May 31 – 23:30h-01:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Thursday, May 30 –09:35h-11:05h and Friday, May 31 – 10:50h-12:20h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery to light rain showers are expected during the day and at night, with sunshine in the late afternoon. Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to South-Easterly between 1.78 metre and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 09:53h and 22:40h reaching maximum heights of 2.33 metres and 2.28 metres.

Low Tide: 16:03h reaching a minimum height of 0.86 metre.

Linden Mayor calls for compensation for flood-affected residents …Govt activates multi-agency response

Heavy rainfall earlier this week had left dozens of households in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara- Berbice) flooded, but while the water had receded in most communities by Wednesday, there has been calls for affected residents to be compensated.

One official who is lobbying for this type of relief is the Mayor of Linden, Sharma Solomon. In a statement on Wednesday, he pointed out that the township is in need of immediate and substantial assistance to manage the flood relief efforts effectively. This, he said, includes funding for emergency services, infrastructure repair, and support for displaced residents and cash grants for those who suffered losses.

“The water had receded and persons are now cleaning up. That’s where we’re at right now; we’re doing a clean-up exercise and we noticed that the Government has sent in now some works to

ing they’ve incurred,” the Linden Mayor told Guyana Times when contacted earlier on Wednesday for an update on the flood situation.

Overnight heavy downpours on Monday left several sections in the mining town as well as surrounding communities in Region 10 underwater. Based on reports received, residents woke up on Tuesday

be done; however, this is inadequate… What we’re asking for is for persons who suffer damages to be compensated or be given a grant [as a] relief for the things they have lost and the suffer-

morning to find several inches of water in their homes.

In Linden, the excessive rainfall measured 170 millimetres at West Watooka, 160.6 millimetres at Wismar,

and 123.4 millimetres at Coomacka.

Some of the other flood-affected areas in Linden are: Silvertown, Canvas City, Silver City, Victory Valley, Block 22

drains in the township to alleviate the flooding during this rainy season.

In response, Government has activated a multi-agency response to the floods in

– 1st, 2nd and 3rd Alley, Christianburg, Central Mackenzie, Retrieve, Kara Kara, Old Kara Kara and the Industrial Area.

Multi-agency response

In many households, furniture, appliances and other items were damaged. Additionally, crops and livestock have also been affected by the inundation.

Local officials in Linden have since requested Central Government to provide resources to assist with the clearing of clogged

collaboration with the Linden Town Council and the Region 10 Administration. Consequently, the Agriculture Ministry’s National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) as well as the Public Works Ministry have engaged several contractors to clean and clear drains in the affected communities, while bauxite company Bosai Mineral Group, is also assisting with supplementary equipment for the cleaning and clearing exercises.

The cleaning packages being distributed to flood-affected residents in Linden on Wednesday

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Parenting

The month of June plays host to two celebrations of parenting – the Global Day of Parents on June 1, and Father’s Day on the third Sunday of June. For good or ill, parents and those who parent play a tremendous role in children’s lives. Parents are a child’s first teachers, and hold in their hands the power to determine much of the trajectory of their children’s lives.

According to the Handbook of Parenting and Child Development Across the Lifespan, “The quality of parenting children receive during childhood and adolescence plays a major role in influencing their developmental competence, and ultimately their life course trajectories. The parent-child relationship has a pervasive impact on children, and affects many different areas of development, including language and communication, executive function and self-regulation, sibling and peer relationships, academic attainment, and mental and physical health.”

Parenting now, as in the past, is demanding, sometimes difficult work with many challenges, and now that family life has undergone many changes in the modern world, many parents are juggling new challenges with limited success.

Fractured families result in a fractured society. Since society as a whole comprises family units, the more fracture these suffer, the more frayed the societal fabric becomes. The greatest threat to modern society is engendered by the rise in single parenthood. Single parenthood precipitates many ills in families and societies, and is most often caused by delinquent fathers who shirk their responsibilities to their families. Worldwide, single mothers are forced to assume the roles of both parents.

Lack of a male role model and an authority figure in their lives – which only a caring, responsible father can provide – has been irrefutably proven by statistics to often cause children to fall prey to societal predators, even criminals. Young girls, in their bid to seek out an equivalent father figure, often fall victims to paedophiles, with related problems such as dropping out of school, child pregnancies, abusive relations, etcetera, with a recurrent nightmarish continuum of self-destructive behaviours. Similarly, boys who grow up in fatherless homes are often lured into anti-social, even criminal, behaviours.

“There’s a growing realisation that the increase in fatherlessness constitutes a clear and present danger not only to the children, but to the long-term health and success of our society,” said David Blankenhorn, President of the Institute for American Values, a New York-based organisation concerned with family issues.

Men have been engaged in a massive migration away from their children for centuries. Statistics worldwide indicate that divorce rates are nearly tripling, and out-of-wedlock birth rates have more than quadrupled since 1960. Demographers say the typical male spends a smaller portion of his adult life living with his children than ever before.

For families to succeed, men and women must be given all assistance possible to fulfil their parental roles. Given that the parentchild relationship and the cultural and community context combine to influence the quality of parenting children receive, support to strengthen these two factors will improve outcomes for children.

As the Handbook of Parenting and Child Development Across the Lifespan notes, “Parenting support that is delivered at a whole of community level and is attuned to the broader ecological context of modern parenting is needed to promote competent parenting and to reduce the adverse effects of poor parenting on children. Policybased investments in evidence-based parenting programmes have great potential to enhance life course outcomes for both children and parents that can have major economic benefits to the entire community.”

Ranks of the Bartica Police Station in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) conducted a lecture at the Precious Gems Nursery School on the role and functions of a Police Officer; crime prevention; bullying at school; abuse; stealing, and fighting at school (GPF photos)

Pres Ali, Govt are focused on the people’s welfare

Dear Editor, When will the PNC put aside petty politics, shake hands as Guyanese, and put the people’s interest in front of personal biasness by serving their constituencies wholeheartedly?

In an interview with the Financial Times, Kofi Annan, the famous Ghanaian UN Secretary-General, summarized his vision in the following manner at the 2000 United Nations Millennium Summit: “I have made clear that the UN should put the human being at the centre of everything it does, and, indeed, the whole discussion – whether it is on issues of human right, issues of lifting people out of poverty, the issue of development – all focuses and centres on the people.”

President Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C Government have risen, accepted, and progressively executed that core challenge since coming into office in August 2020, and

have transformed the lives of the Guyanese people in such a short time. They have successfully, soberly, impartially and symmetrically financed the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Soesdyke-Linden highway, which will enhance the lives of all its users and the smooth movement of people and merchandise.

In President Ali’s last Labour Day speech, H.E. emphasized that, “A better quality of life depends on the holistic development of one’s self, family and community…the holistic standard of living that one is able to achieve in a society and a community.”

Who knows it better than this distinguished gentleman from the rural area? As a tertiary resident from humble ancestors, he grew up in the village of Leonora from the grassroots of a PPP/C Party that was constrained in the political abyss for 28 years due to the corroboration of

colonialists, capitalists and corruptive conduct, controlling the selection and not election of power imbalance as Government administrators?

Choosing Linden to celebrate Guyana’s 58th Independence anniversary was a sign of inclusiveness, and not selectiveness.

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has shunned the pessimistic soothsayers and naysayers who blasphemed his inauguration in 2020; has risen to be the leader of the fastest growing nation with the highest GDP per capita; and is a welcoming figure in the international community, accepted at any forum. He has entrenched his popularity and simplicity in his perpetual “meet the people tour” by regularly visiting all Guyanese without any form of discrimination in almost all of the communities in the nearby and outlying 10 regions in Guyana, and also Guyana’s 11th re-

gion, the Diaspora residing overseas, who have overwhelmingly embraced him as a president by the people and for the people.

Dr. Ali had said before that he has no fear of travelling anywhere in Guyana. The sod was turned for construction of a new Wismar bridge.

Under President Ali’s astute and influential leadership, Guyana has been in the limelight for several accomplished accolades, and has catapulted to various distinguished international leadership roles. With the recent election of the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, as the First Vice President for World Health Assembly (WHA), the decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO), Guyana has again soared its forefront way on the world map as a leading country, well respected in the field of health and medical treatment.

Ayube Edun: an Indian achiever

By Ravi Dev

Most might have heard about Ayube Mohammed Edun (1893-1957) as the founder of the first trade union for sugar workers in Guyana – the Man Power Citizen’s Association (MPCA) in 1937. But beyond that, he had long been an “Indian Rights Activist”, first as a goldsmith, President of the British Guiana East Indian Association (BGEIA), publisher of the Guiana Review newspaper.

In discussing “Specific Indian Problems”, he wrote, “The problems affecting the Indian community are many and varied, but chief among them would be the following: Cultural "Renaissance: The Indian population is fast losing their best national characteristics, and unless steps are taken to check further deterioration, the future holds dark and gloomy prospects. Except (for) class differences, there are no social or caste disabilities and distinctions.”

INDIAN ASSOCIATIONS AND TRADE UNIONS

There is one political organization known as the British Guiana East Indian Association. The Man-Power Citizen’s Association, which is a registered trade union, represents all the sugar workers, 95 per cent of whom are Indians and 5 per cent Africans.

The British Guiana Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha represents the Hindu community, and the British Guiana Islamic Association and Sadr Anjuman-EIslam represent the Muslim community in religious affairs. The American Aryan League also has a strong following among a section of the Hindus. There are several Christian denominational organizations, and many friendly societies abound in the cities, towns and villages.

TEMPLES AND MOSQUES

There are numerous temples and mosques scattered in the towns, villages and plantations. There are also Madrasas and Pathsbalas within their compounds, but owing to the lack of Hindi and Urdu teachers, there is much wastage in energy, time and money. It is all a question of qualified teachers, proper system of teaching, curriculum and school books.

PRESS AND PERIODICALS

He pointed out that while the MPCA produces The Labour Advocate - a weekly newspaper; the BGEIA the weekly Indian Opinion; the Islamic Association a monthly magazine - The Nur-e Islam; and the Sadr Anjuman-EIslam a quarterly known as “Islam”, Indians own no daily newspaper. They’re at a great disadvantage (in) so far as newspaper representation is concerned. There are three daily newspapers: The Daily Chronicle and The Guiana Graphic - owned by the European and Coloured communities and while these are not altogether anti-Indian yet, they are not friendly to the Indians in British Guiana. He wrote the first book by a Guyanese Indian after spending some time in England in 1928. He began: “I was born of pure-blooded Indian parentage, in a distant outpost of the British Empire, on a sugar plantation, far away in British Guiana, the only British possession on the South American mainland, in a home that had for its floor the bare earth.” His grandfather Edun had arrived from Indian in 1850 and was bound to Pln Philadelphia, EBE, and later bought Pln Orangestein.

Early in 1947, on a trip to India, he summarised his view of the Indians in British Guiana: “75,000 Indians reside on the sugar plantations, 50 per cent of whom are actual sugar workers; another 75,000 are engaged in other pursuits like production of rice, cattle, milk, greens etc. in the village settlements and river banks. The rest are professionals, landlords, businessmen, artisans, clerks and civil servants. There are also a number of Bengalee pedlars and film representatives from India.

Treasonous calls for violence against Govt must be condemned

Dear Editor,

Threats were made against a sitting one-time president, resulting in major shakeup of law enforcement, even banishment of a crime chief.

Now the threat of deadly violence, including beheading, against four sitting members of government, including the president, all of one ethnicity, is viewed as 'flimsy accusation' and an attack against free speech,

with the facilitator deemed a 'political prisoner' against the manifestation and emergence of a 'police state' and 'fascist state'. (May 28). Words certainly come easy. So, is it alright to make calls of violence against sitting members of a legal government? During the five-month elections imbroglio and shenanigans, no calls were made for violence against those who steadfastly clung to power. So why now?

The treasonous calls for violence against sitting members of a legal government must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. No spin - racial, political or otherwise - can change that. Those who aided, abetted, and facilitated this call must be held responsible and made to account.

Sincerely,

Shamshun Mohamed

Pres Ali, Govt are focused on...

Dr. Leslie Ramsammy proudly boasted that Guyana has “become the leading kidney transplant country in Caricom, and in 2024 we are expanding the programme and making it a center of excellence.”

Guyana currently chairs Caricom, and is an elected member of the United Nations Security Council for a two-year period. The Linden Complex Hospital is being upgrade to a Level 4 contingent.

In India’s President H.E. Droupadi Murmu’s warm 58th Independence Anniversary message to Guyana, she has underlined the tranquil blissfulness and productive achievements enjoyed by Guyanese and creatively forged by President Ali and the PPP/C Government: “I take this opportunity to convey my best wishes for your good health and well-being, as well as for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of the friendly people of Guyana.”

India is one of the leading countries offering educational institutions for the GOAL scholarships, and has further pledged to invest US$1.2 million in start-up businesses for the GOAL scholars. China donated some US$100,000 in flood response equipment to the CDC. China is also engaged

in financing many projects undertaken by the Government. The Confucius Institute has strengthened the bond between China and Guyana with the introduction of a Mandarin programme.

The LindenMabura Road will boost Guyana’s economy, and the project has employed over 350 Lindeners.

Guyana is in the eyes of the international market for tourism. Over 700,000 visitors came to Guyana last year, in comparison to some 500,000 in 2015. Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud has emphasized that Guyana is a global destination for investment. With the lucrative oil and gas industry gaining much traction with its production and reserve, President Ali and the PPP/C Government are attracting worldwide bankers and investors who want to conduct business in Guyana, not mindful or fearful of its geopolitical location.

Guyana’s internal and external safety and security are guaranteed by multiple regional and international governments who have pledged their willingness to assist and defend the preservation of Guyana’s sovereignty.

Linden’s socioeconomic development is being boosted with the Government investing some $1.8 billion in constructing 84 roads

in the township.

Dr. Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C Government have undertaken in their election manifesto to diligently serve all the people of Guyana, and to upgrade their standard of living.

Latoya Todd, a young mother and resident of the Independence Boulevard, summed it up beautifully when she said: “The place is so nice that my kids can now come out ev-

ery afternoon and enjoy the transformed atmosphere. So, they are safe, and have fun when they come out. I don’t have to worry about anything, because the place is fixed now, where people can be able to watch over them.”

President Ali is certainly people and family-oriented.

Respectfully, Jai Lall

Ayube Mohammed Edun

Page Foundation

CSEC MATHS

Read the following advertisement carefully and answer the questions.

Developing States must harness technology to mitigate climate change disasters – Edghill

…urges collaborations between SIDS, int’l organisations & businesses

The importance of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) leveraging data and technology to mitigate against challenges raised by climate change, including natural disasters, was on Tuesday emphasised by Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, at the SIDS4 Conference.

Prime Minister, retired Brigadier Mark Phillips, led a Guyanese contingent over in Antigua and Barbuda for the 4th international confer -

analytics to mitigate against natural disasters.

According to the Minister, Guyana and other SIDS can develop targeted interventions to mitigate against disasters, by harnessing the power of technology and innovation.

these risks,” Edghill said.

Edghill gave Guyana as an example, noting the vulnerability of the coast to flooding. He noted that Guyana’s infrastructure, especially those that are decades old, have become overwhelmed by these floods. According to him, many SIDS face similar challenges.

“An important aspect of this approach is the establishment of robust risk assessment frameworks. These frameworks utilise a

ence on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4). On Tuesday, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill took part in a panel discussion on leveraging data and

“Data serves as the foundation upon which informed decisions are made, and analytics provide the tools necessary to extract meaningful insights from relevant data. By harnessing the power of technology and innovation, we can better understand the complex interplay of factors contributing to disaster risks, and develop targeted interventions to mitigate

floods, hurricanes, and landslides.”

“By understanding the risks posed by these hazards, we can prioritise investments, allocate resources effectively, and design infrastructure that is better able to withstand future shocks,” Edghill further said.

Edghill also made the point that states must engage stakeholders at all levels, ranging from vulnerable communities to indigenous groups, to ensure their needs are met. Additionally, he noted that institutions responsible for infrastructure development must incorporate state of the art technologies to do their work.

combination of historical data, scientific modelling, and predictive analytics to assess the likelihood and potential impact of various hazards, such as

“It is important to recognise that building resilience is not solely a technical endeavor. It requires a holistic approach that takes into account institutional capacity needs, social, economic, and

environmental dimensions of sustainability. As such, we must engage stakeholders at all levels of society, including vulnerable communities, indigenous peoples, and marginalised groups, to ensure that their voices are heard, and their needs are met.”

“Governments of SIDS must foster a spirit of collaboration and initiative taking when it comes to policy development that is aligned with the risk-based approach. Institutions responsible for infrastructure development must be enhanced through the introduction of stateof-the-art technologies for data collection and analysis where this is lacking. Data sharing and technical support partnerships should also be established as a matter of policy,” he further said.

Meanwhile, Edghill also stressed the need

for governments, international organisations and the private sector to collaborate and invest in building resilient infrastructures that would benefit all. Additionally, he noted the potential for this collaboration to fill gaps in data collection, analysis and modeling.

The side event took place alongside the 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4), from 27- 30 May in Antigua. SIDS4 brings together leaders to agree on a new programme of action for SIDS with a focus on practical and impactful solutions and to forge new partnerships and cooperation at all levels.

The draft outcome document from the conference includes a commitment to “scale up the planning, development and management of sustainable and resilient infrastructure and to create risk-informed policy, investment decisions and systems in sectors including transportation, energy, communications, water, health and education.”

The SIDS conference, which started on Monday, will run until Thursday. Other Guyanese officials at the conference include Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat. (G3)

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill during his presentation

Minister Edghill during his presentation at the American University of Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda

Pensioner dies in LindenSoesdyke Highway collision

A68-year-old man lost his life on Wednesday morning, and one of his relatives was injured after the car in which they were travelling collided with a truck on the Hill Foot access road, LindenSoesdykeHighway.

Dead is Rudolph Caines of Hillfoot Village, LindenSoesdykeHighway. He was the driver of motorcar, PGG 6390 while his relative Maxine Caines, 66, also of Hillfoot Village, who was a passenger, was injured.

According to police, the accident occurred around 05:15h at the junction of Hill Foot Public Road and Hill Foot Access Road. It was reported that the car was heading north along Hill Foot Access

Road when it allegedly failed to stop and veered into the path of a westbound motor lorry, GAG 6169, resulting in a collision that damaged both vehicles.

Both Rudolph and Maxine Caines sus-

tained serious injuries and were transported to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, where Rudolph was pronounced dead on arrival.

A breathalyser test was conducted on the 38-year-old lorry driver, who is from Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and no alcohol was detected.

Rudloph’s body has been taken to the Memorial Gardens funeral home. A post-mortem examination will be conducted shortly

Fire Service to establish outpost at CJIA in keeping with int’l standards

As the government continues to invest in the country’s main airport to ensure it becomes in line with international standards, plans are in steam to establish a new Fire Service outpost to improve emergency response times.

The Home Affairs Ministry has revealed that this new outpost at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), will be in a hangar south of the London Army Base.

Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn, accompanied by the Chief Fire Officer, Gregory Wickham and a team on Monday visited and in-

audit of the airport, and the lack of adequate fire response was highlighted.

for aircraft fires and one for structural fires.

In a statement, the ministry has assured that this move is part of the government’s commitment to safety and emergency preparedness, ensuring robust fire and rescue services to support the expanded airport infrastructure.

Gotcha…

…terrorism abettor!!

Back in 2018, the PNC Government received widespread condemnation when they drafted and debated a draconian bill on Cybercrime in the National Assembly. The concerns had been centred on the old Common Law crime of sedition being dragged into the now all-pervasive social media. Section 18 (1) of the bill stated: “A person commits an offence of sedition if the person, whether in or out of Guyana, intentionally publishes, transmits or circulates by use of a computer system, a statement or words, either spoken or written, a text, video, image, sign, visible representation, or other thing, that (a) brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law in Guyana.”

Imagine that!! Anyone criticizing the Government and bringing “contempt” towards them could’ve been criminally charged with sedition!! So, if, in 2020, folks had accused the PNC Government of attempting to rig the elections, they could’ve been thrown into the slammer for five years. Since by then Granger had already put James Patterson in place at GECOM, this isn’t just idle speculation.

Fortunately, Granger and company had to bow to the intense pressure, and Article 18(1) was excised.

But the amended Cybercrime Act (2018) Granger signed into law still listed a host of activities disseminated over “computers” as “criminal acts”. As such, these, by definition, were crimes against the state, for which the police could then take action by arresting transgressors and having them tried summarily in the magistrates’ courts. In this case, the punishment would be 3 years’ imprisonment with a fine of $5M. If the person was charged indictably, the matter would go to the High Court, and, on conviction, a fine of $10M and imprisonment for 3 years would be imposed.

the International Civil Aviation Authority. We are doing just that, making sure that we meet the required standards”,

spected the hangar and its access routes.

Benn, during an interview with Guyana Times, explained that that the International Civil Aviation Organisation is currently conducting an

The minister explained that with the longer runway, it means crash tenders have a greater distance to cover, and this situation was not meeting international standards.

“There are audits ongoing which, after a number of years you get an audit, and we have to ensure that we reach international standards in respect of the audits,

The Public Works Ministry has been allocated $1.1 billion this year to continue upgrades on the CJIA, with an additional $445 million now being allocated

Benn said.

To address this, the new outpost will serve as an auxiliary positioning for the crash tenders.

Minister Benn also highlighted maintenance issues with the crash tenders, noting that CJIA has four tenders—three

for the 'Rehabilitation of Taxiway Charlie – Phase 1'. This project, which involves refurbishing a taxiway that connects runways to other airport facilities, will be conducted through a National Competitive Bidding procedure. (G9)

Now, threatening to murder anyone – much more the President of the land – over cyberspace has gotta be waaay up there on a list of criminal activities that must be prosecuted. And it’s alleged that this is exactly what one social media broadcaster facilitated on his Facebook page!! This fella has been allowed to get away with illegalities galore - such as defamation, rebelling against the state a la the “Buxton Freedom Fighters” etc - over the past few years by entertaining very specific discussions against the Government in general and individuals associated with it in particular. Well, bucket does go to the well every day, till one day it battam drop off!! The police just hauled in the miscreant, and he should be charged by the time you read this, dear reader.

Your Eyewitness expects that all the old tropes of “political victimization”, political prisoner etc, would be hauled out!! But, as old people say, “All smart fly does end up in cow backside”!!

…for abusing “free speech”

Your Eyewitness is quite pleased the police took cognizance of the crimes being committed in cyberspace. With the cybercrime law on the books for over five years, he was amazed so many persons were getting away with “verbal murder”; especially with a host of Facebook-broadcasting hosts pushing the PNC’s scorched earth policy against the PPP. Now, in democracies, we must acknowledge the sanctity of “free speech”; but, as with every right, this right isn’t unlimited, and must be balanced against the rights of other citizens. There’s the old saw: “the right to swing your arms ends at the tip of my nose”! Or as expressed by a US court, you don’t have the right to yell “FIRE!!!” in a crowded theatre. Free speech shouldn’t be incendiary speech!

When a public figure’s involved, there’s some wriggle room under the doctrine of “fair comment” for defamation…but a call to murder?? We got too many guns out there, with happy fingers on the triggers. We gotta draw the line!!

…for nitpicking

No wonder crime spiralled out of control after 2002. Imagine, one former Asst Inspector saw a sign with our flag colours and complained that THE FLAG had been desecrated!! He probably saw the 5 escaped prisoners as choir boys led astray!!

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn and Fire Chief Gregory Wickham

Govt holds discussion with Indian Western Secretary on oil & gas, energy cooperation

…as India recommits to providing aid to SIDS through UN Development Fund

fund supports 82 projects in 57 countries, of which half are SIDS,” Kapoor further said.

India is already expected to partner with Guyana in critical areas in the oil and gas sector, including refining crude oil, as the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Indian Government approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two nations in January of this year.

The Government of Guyana, through Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, on Wednesday was able to hold discussions with India through Secretary (West) of the Ministry of External Affairs of India, Shri Pavan Kapoor where the potential for collaboration in areas that include oil and gas was explored.

The discussions were held on the sidelines of the fourth international conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) in Antigua and Barbuda. It was announced that during a discussion on the sidelines of the event, the two officials held talks “on a range of issues including cooperation in hydrocarbon sector and Indian technical assistance extended to Guyana in capacity building and developing infrastructure in energy and power sectors.”

The Guyanese delegation to the SIDS4

conference was led by Prime Minister, retired Brigadier Mark Phillips. In addition to Minister Bharrat, Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill also represented Guyana at the event.

Meanwhile, Shri Pavan Kapoor addressed the plenary session during day 2 of SIDS4, where he also reiterated India’s commitment to continuing its support for SIDS, of which Guyana is one, through innovative financing under the India/United Nations fund.

“India will continue to support implementing the Antigua and Barbuda agenda for SIDS, through its longstanding bilateral development partnerships that include concessional financing, grant assistance and capacity building and training programmes.”

“Through the India/ UN Development Partnership Fund, we’ve also focused on the SIDS. Presently the

This MoU would see India sourcing crude from Guyana, an arrangement that it has previously done such as in 2021 when HPCLMittal Energy Ltd (HMEL), a joint venture between State-run Hindustan Petroleum Corp and Indian steel tycoon LN Mittal, bought Guyana’s crude.

It was also announced in January last year that India, where President Dr Irfaan Ali had led a delegation of Guyanese earlier that very month, had made an initial proposal on the direct longterm purchase of crude. At the time, it had been announced that Guyana was examining the proposal at a technical level.

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the signing of an MoU between the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Government of India and the Ministry of Natural Resources, Republic of Guyana on cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector.

Another area the MoU will cover is cooperation with Guyana for crude oil refining. Additionally, it will create opportunities for Indian companies to ex-

plore and produce oil in Guyana and for collaboration in natural gas.

At the Government bilateral level, the MoU allows for capacity building, strengthening bilateral trade, collaborating to develop oil and gas-related regulations and cooperation in renewable and clean energy, including biofuels and solar energy. It had also been revealed in February that India has sourced as much as US$149 million in crude oil from Guyana between 2021 and 2022. (G3)

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat (left) with Shri Pavan Kapoor, Secretary (West) of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs

Shri Pavan Kapoor, Secretary (West) during a courtesy call with Guyana’s Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillip

Toddler dies in WCB accident

An 18-month-old is now dead after a lorry crashed into a car with four people on Wednesday afternoon. The crash occurred at Britannia, West Coast Berbice (WCB), Region

Five (Mahaica-Berbice), and claimed the life of 18-month-old Daniel Myers.

He was a passenger in the car being driven by his father.

The child was pronounced dead at the Fort Wellington Hospital.

His mother, Monique Mayers, received minor injuries at the same hospital. The couple’s threeyear-old son was also in the car at the time.

Reports are that the family of four was returning from Bushlot Village, WCB to their Belmont, Mahaica home when the accident occurred.

According to the police, the accident oc-

Guyana to object to...

Manickchand re-emphasised that Guyana cannot afford to drop technical and vocational subjects considering the rapid growth of the economy, especially in the oil and gas and agriculture industries.

“Yeah, you know, where the world is talking about sustainable food investments and about skills being the new wealthy investment children can make or young people can make in order to sustain their livelihoods, both as young people and as adults with their own families, and particularly with the oil and gas sector coming, being built out in Guyana, where we hope to grow and utilise our own skill base, local skill base to serve the entire economy around that. Guyana cannot afford to drop these subjects now, and we don't intend to, and we intend to make that very clear to the Caribbean Examinations Council,” she added.

2023 CXC/CAPE results

In a monumental record, Guyana topped the Caribbean for the fifth consecutive year at both at the 2023 Caribbean

Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination.

Alex Muntaz of the Anna Regina Secondary and Naresh Jagnanan of Queen’s College have been named the Most Outstanding Students overall in the Region at CSEC and CAPE, respectively.

Muntaz had clinched 23 Grade Ones and four Grade Twos at the examinations while Jagnanan scored nine Grade Ones and one Grade Two at CAPE.

Muntaz also copped the Most Outstanding Student in Technical and Vocational Education and Training subjects.

Stable performances were noted in English Language, Mathematics, Technical Drawing, Caribbean History, and Economics.

Pass percentages for the year are as follows: 70 for English Language; 63 for English Literature; 34 for Mathematics; 60 for Additional Mathematics; 97 for Agricultural Science (double award); 55 for Physics; 66 for

curred at about 13:45h and involved motor lorry GXX 1685 with trailer TAB 3229 attached and owned by John Fernandes Limited being driven at the time by a 39-year-old of Buxton East Coast Demerara.

Integrated Science; 58 for Chemistry; 72 for Principles of Business; 69 for Principles of Accounts; 63 for Economics; 84 for Religious Education; 53 for Social Studies; 65 for Visual Arts; 64 for Caribbean History; 98 for Theatre Arts, and 88 for Music.

For the TVET subject areas, there was a pass rate of over 65 per cent

Additionally, an improved performance was recorded in Agricultural Science, from 76 per cent to 91 per cent; Applied Mathematics, from 88 per cent to 100 per cent; Economics, from 81 per cent to 90 per cent; Electronic and Electrical Technology, from 80 per cent to 85 per cent; Geography, from 95 per cent to 100 per cent; Pure Mathematics Unit One, from 65 per cent to 88 per cent; Pure Mathematics Unit Two, from 80 per cent to 87 per cent; Chemistry, from 86 per cent to 88 per cent; and Literature, from 95 per cent to 97 per cent. Caribbean Studies and Communication studies – both compulsory subjects – each recorded over 90 per cent. (G1)

The car, PAG 5148, which was driven by Karson Mayers, was proceeding west along the southern side of the road at a fast rate, and while negotiating a right turn he allegedly lost control and ended up on

the northern side of the road into the path of the motor lorry and trailer, which was proceeding east along the northern side of the road.

As a result, the right side of the car collided with the right side of the trailer, which caused the two occupants who were sitting in the right-side rear seat to receive injuries.

They were taken to Fort Wellington Hospital, where they were seen and exam-

ined by a doctor who pronounced Karson Mayers dead on arrival. Monique Mayers was admitted as a patient for observation. Breathalyser tests were conducted on both drivers, which revealed that the lorry driver had five micrograms, and the car driver had four micrograms, respectively, both below the prescribed limit of 38 micrograms.

The incident occurred as Karson Mayers was celebrating his birthday. (G4)

EPA sounds warning over gathering Sahara Dust threat …urges

Tpublic to take precautions, wear dust masks

he Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has sounded a note of warning over the gathering threat from the Sahara Dust phenomenon, noting that even now a visible haze is developing in Georgetown.

In a statement, the EPA noted that its air quality sensors in Eccles, East Bank of Demerara (EBD) and central Georgetown have detected air quality in the ‘moderate’ range’, which is above the World Health Organisation (WHO) Guidelines for good air quality.

“This is mainly due to an increase in particulate matter in the atmosphere and high humidity. Air quality may also be affected by the Saharan dust according to the following website:

Forecast showing movement of the Sahara Dust

https://www.myfoxhurricane.com/saharan_dust_ car.html,” the EPA said. Further, the EPA went on to urge members of the public to take precautionary measures to protect their health, including by limiting the time they spend outdoors. The agency also recommended that members of the public wear dust masks as practicable.

“The EPA will notify the public when the air quality returns to normal and within parameter ranges. For a near real-time update on the Air Quality Index near you, visit the EPA website: https://epaguyana. org and select the ‘Your Environment' tab and then click ‘Air Quality Data’.”

Dead: 18-month-old Daniel Myers

The car following the accident

Cyber Crime Act

“You will learn when you go in jail”

AG to irresponsible talk show hosts

…says there is a duty in law to shut down reckless callers

Talk show hosts and others who provide a platform for viewers or listeners to express their opinions are responsible for whatever is said on their programmes.

This is according to Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall, SC, who on Tuesday evening pointed out that failure to make responsible decisions can lead to charges relating to cybercrime or criminal conduct.

The AG admitted that while it is impossible to predict what callers will say on the programmes streamed on social media, television or radio stations, the host, nevertheless, has a responsibility to discontinue the engagement once hostility is detected.

While not every host of a programme must be trained in law, Nandlall said “at least if you are going to talk publicly, you ought to have common sense.”

He further explained that “it is not expected that you [the host] will be able to predict what the person is likely to say or may say but

in the criminal conduct… So, if you don’t know well too bad, you will learn when you go in jail,” Nandlall bluntly stated on his weekly programme ‘Issues in the News’.

The AG’s statements come on the heels of political activist, Kadackie Amsterdam, being arrested for encouraging or inciting persons to commit murder against President Dr Irfaan Ali and several other senior government officials including Nandlall himself.

from the moment you hear that the person is saying something that you know, as an ordinary, reasonable sensible human being – something that the person should not be saying, something that can put you in problem, something that can make you an accomplice or an accessory to a crime – you have a duty to shut that caller down. That is your responsibility in law.”

The attorney general went onto further point out that ignorance of the law is never a defence.

“If you entertain that caller, you are participating

On Tuesday, Guyana Police Force said ranks from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) arrested Amsterdam, a member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) – one of the small parties that form the Opposition-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), at his recording studio at Annandale, East Coast Demerara.

Amsterdam was arrested in relation to three cybercrime offences: using a computer system to transmit words spoken by a video that encourages or incites any person to commit the offence of Murder against the

President and members of the Government, contrary to Section 18(1)(c) of the Cybercrime Act No 16 of 2018; and using a computer system to disseminate information knowing same to be false, contrary to Section 19(3) (a) of the Cybercrime Act No 16 of 2018.

The offences were also allegedly committed against a businessman and others, the police said.

“These matters are being treated very seriously. [The] investigations are ongoing,” the GPF said.

Laid in the National Assembly in 2016 by the former APNU/AFC Government, the Cyber Crimes Bill treats with the creation of cybercrime offences, and contains provisions for penalties, investigations and prosecutions of such.

It had also catered for, inter alia: illegal access to a computer system; illegal interception; illegal data interference; illegal acquisition of data; illegal system interference; unauthorised receiv-

ing or granting of access to computer data; computer-related forgery; computer- related fraud; offences affecting critical infrastructure; identity-related offences; child pornography; child luring, and violation of privacy among a slew of other offences.

According to the Cyber Crime Act No. 16 of 2018, if convicted on Indictment for the first offence, a person is liable to imprisonment of five years.

If convicted summarily on the second offence, a person is liable to a fine of $5 million and imprisonment of three years, and if convicted on Indictment, a person is liable to a fine of $10 million and imprisonment of five years. (G8)

Attorney General & Legal Affairs Minister

Anil Nandlall, SC

Kadackie Amsterdam

Paving of the Linden-toMabura hiLL highway

President dr irfaan ali hosted students and teachers from tuschen Primary school, region 3 (essequibo islands-West demerara) on a tour of state house on Wednesday morning

$65M DPP Office opens in Region 2

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has opened its new, $65M, two-storey facility at Onderneeming in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

This development, which occurred on Wednesday, marks a significant step in enhancing the administration of justice on the Essequibo Coast.

The upper floor of the building will house the DPP prosecutors, while the lower floor will serve as a public interface for staff and visitors.

Speaking at the opening ceremony held at the new location of the DPP Office, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall highlighted the historic nature of this development when he spoke of the persistent human struggle for justice and freedom and acknowledged the inevitable conflicts with the law that arise despite societal advancements.

"When we find ourselves in conflict with the law, it is the justice system that ensures fair and equal treatment ac-

cording to the law," he stated.

He noted the crucial role of the justice system in upholding the rule of law and maintaining a peaceful society, and added that the function of the Office of the DPP is to carry out prosecutorial functions when it is decided that charges should be instituted for misconduct.

Additionally, the representative of the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) in Guyana, Lorena Solorzano Salazar, underscored the partnership between institutions in strengthening the delivery of justice in Guyana.

"The opening of the new Department of Public Prosecutions’ Building in Essequibo aligns with the IDB’s commitment to support the Government of Guyana in its efforts to improve access to justice," she said.

Salazar highlighted the 2023 Needham’s Point Declaration on Criminal Justice Reform,

which addresses delays and inefficiencies in the Caribbean's criminal justice system. She emphasized the importance of adequate resources for criminal justice institutions, including police, judiciary, prison services, and prosecution services.

The IDB-funded Support for Criminal Justice System Program (SCJS) is nearing its completion, with the new DPP building symbolizing a dedication to these reforms.

"By moving the frontiers of modernized justice facilities outward into the communities, we are helping to bring alleged perpetrators to trial more efficiently, and ensuring justice is accessible to all,” Salazar has said.

The new DPP Office aims to provide a space where legal professionals can work towards fairer, more effective justice, and also includes accommodations for these professionals to integrate into the community.

"The IDB remains committed to partnering with the Government of Guyana towards bringing justice closer to home," Salazar has said, in expressing anticipation for the community to welcome and utilize this new resource. Also attending the opening ceremony were Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva and Director of Public Prosecutions, Shalimar Ali-Hack, S.C., among other regional officials.

Linden mayor calls for compensation for flood affected...

Moreover, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) is setting up at least two shelters in Linden for persons whose homes were inundated.

Additionally, some 400 sanitisation packages were handed over to the Region 10 RDC on Wednesday to be distributed to the flood-affected persons there.

The packages, which were provided by the Office of the Prime Minister, consist of cleaning agents. Residents will also receive food hampers as part of the Government's flood relief efforts.

Blame game

But even as Central Government stepped in to offer support to Linden, it has blamed the local officials for failing to adequately prepare for the rainy season.

A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister on Tuesday states: “From all indications, the areas affected by flooding are a direct result of the ineptitude of the current Mayor and Councillors who are focused on collecting revenues from all possible sources while failing to maintain the drainage infrastructure essential for the safety of the residents now suffering from the floods.”

pared for flooding in the future.

It noted that the call for a swift response from the central government – commendably coordinated and delivered within 24 hours in the form of clearing drains, setting up shelters, and distributing relief supplies – is the easy part. Nevertheless, the Government believes that given Linden’s budget, which is the highest per capita in Guyana, surpassing any other administrative region, it should be better pre-

“What truly needs addressing is the failure of local and regional governance of Region 10 and the Mayor and Town Council of Linden. Their collective failure to perform their duties, including taking advantage of the long dry season to clear the drains and clean up the entire town of Linden, is unacceptable. They even chose to boycott the town’s cleanup before the independence flag-raising ceremony.

“Both the [Regional Democratic Council] RDC and the municipality of Linden must now lead a massive cleanup operation before the next deluge. With the La Niña weather phenomenon predicting more rainfall in the coming months, immediate action is imperative,” the Government posited.

However, Solomon has laid the blame for the floods on “Government’s mismanagement of services” that were removed by the Local Government Ministry from the oversight of the Town Council and given instead to the Community Development Councils (CDC) and the Community Infrastructural Improvement Project (CIIP), which include the cleaning and maintenance of drains, cleaning of soakaways and even parapets.

According to the Linden Mayor, despite repeated requests for support and intervention even for the Linden Town Week preparations, from higher levels of government, the Town Council has not received the necessary resources and attention to address these needs.

“The recent flag-rais-

ing clean-up project, where Government spent tens of millions of dollars, overlooked the cleaning and clearing of main creeks, such as the Hymara, Wakanaboo and Katakara creeks [and] has proven ineffective over the past 48 hours of addressing the issue of flooding and erosion across the town.

Other infrastructural works such as roads and bridges have had their structural integrity compromised due to the absence of drains to accompany these recently-constructed roads, such as Ice Water Road and several footpaths in the Victory Valley area, against the advice of the Council, who, along with residents, had publicly protested this and were labelled anti-development.

Nevertheless, he urged Central Government to set aside political differences and prioritise the needs of the affected communities. He also called for a comprehensive multi-stakeholder review of the region’s current disaster preparedness and response strategies to ensure that such situations do not occur again.

The Linden Mayor further noted that he is committed to collaborating with the Central Government to achieve this goal. (G8)

“The recent floods have exposed the deficiencies in our drainage systems, the inadequacy of our erosion control measures, and the overall fragility of our infrastructure with the need for studies of drainage networks across the town. These problems are not new; they are the result of years of underinvestment and neglect,” Solomon posited.

A section of the gathering at the opening on Wednesday

Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall

Guyanese urged to invest in agro-processing

…as Guyana ramps up food production activities

Guyana is well on its way to becoming a major food exporter for the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and countries in Latin America, as the production of food continues to increase.

In fact, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced last Saturday that legume production for 2024 increased by 106 per cent, peanuts increased by 286 per cent, coconut production saw an increase of 55 per cent, while ground provision and vegetables increase by an average of 218 per cent.

Additionally, Guyana intends to produce more than 60 per cent of its onion needs, in addition to corn, soya, feed, blackeyed peas and red beans and so save the country more than US$150 million annually in foreign exchange.

According to Chief Investment Officer and Head of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest), Dr Peter Ramsaroop, the export of these commodities will triple in the coming years and local companies must position themselves to benefit from this growth.

Ramsaroop believes that investing in agro-processing, specifi-

$2.5M

In a bid to revolutionise its operations in keeping with trends of the digital age, the Labour Ministry on Wednesday launched a Digital Complaints and Information Management System, which is coupled with a “Labour Advice” Mobile Application app.

The sum of $2.5 million was expended by the Ministry for the development of the application and this was spearheaded by the National Data Management Authority (NDMA).

NDMA was tasked with constructing the application’s Data Processing, Complaint Management and Inspection Systems.

The agency is also re-

cally canning foods which Guyana has a ready market for, can maximise revenue in both the public and private sectors.

“So, they got to study the science. You know, for example, when you’re shipping watermelon, you have four watermelons of different sizes, it won’t fit in the box. And then by time it gets to the location, it’s bruised. And then nobody wants to pay for it. So, the Ministry of Agriculture is working with farmers and ensuring that they learn how to do things by science. And at the same time, why ship a heavy watermelon out where we can package it in cans and other materials… And so, we’ve got a big market to tackle. After the president finishes 25 per cent, we want to go af-

ter the other 75 percent,” Ramsaroop said.

The undertaking of traditional and non-traditional crops is all part of efforts geared towards Guyana and the Caribbean region achieving food security by the year 2025.

For Guyana, agro-processing holds the benefit for increased value of exports, reduction of importation of foreign substitutes, job creation and increased investment and enhanced food security, among other benefits.

Agro-processing is a true bread basket of the Caribbean with this approach and the continued hard work of farmers.

Ramsaroop said that GO-Invest and government agencies including the Small Business

Bureau and Guyana Marketing Corporation are prepared to provide technical and analytical support to businesses desirous of venturing into agro-processing.

“Well, I mean, for example, by law, the Guyana Office for Investment is responsible for both investment and export promotion. So, one of our roles is to get those products into new markets, you know, help them with labeling, help them with, you know, working with Bureau of Statistics and the Guyana Marketing Corporation. So, it’s an integrated approach to get those products into the region and the wider world,” he added.

During 2024 budget, Finance Minister

Dr Ashni Singh had announced that Government plans to pump $97.6B into agriculture in 2024. This is on the back of a strong performance in agriculture last year.

The sector recorded a growth of seven percent after the sum of $60.4 billion was spent therein for its stimulation and invigoration. The performance is attributed to increases across all sub-sectors; namely, other crops, rice-growing, livestock, fishing, sugar-growing, and forestry.

In delivering his budget presentation, the finance minister noted that huge investments would be made in the subsectors of sugar, rice, other crops, corn and soya, coconut,

citrus, and spices; as well as agro-processing, livestock, fisheries and aquaculture.

For 2023, the sugar industry grew by 28 per cent while it declined by 11.8 per cent in 2019. Rice expanded in 2023 by seven per cent while there was a mere one per cent increase in 2019. The other crops sector grew by 4.1 per cent in 2023, while there was a meagre growth of 0.3 per cent in 2019.

The livestock industry increased by 12.7 per cent in 2023 while 2019 recorded a decline of 3.5 per cent. In 2023, Guyana’s fishing industry increased by 37.8 per cent and 25 per cent in the aquaculture sector.

(G1)

labour complaints, info app launched

complaints digitally.

brought before the ministry.

sponsible for the application’s annual software maintenance and support system, which will be updated regularly to ensure

the service is efficient. The user-friendly mobile app is tailored for employers and employees to lodge labour violations and

During his address at the launch ceremony, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton posited that the system is a directed investment made towards enhancing accessibility, transparency and inclusivity.

On this point, he urged citizens to take full advantage of the app, noting that it is the legal and constitutional avenue in place to investigate matters

“The person who is authorised statutorily, legally, and constitutionally to resolve your problems if you have a labour relations grievance is the Chief Labour Officer and his officers. There is no other set of persons in this land we call Guyana and I need to say that because from time-to-time people will reach us in the street and they have a problem, and the first question you asked them is have you made a formal report… the labour department can only investigate via a formal report made by someone,” the Labour Minister said.

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton alongside Chief Labour Officer Dhaneshwar Deonarine at the launch of the Digital Complaints and Information Management System

Chief Investment Officer and Head of the Guyana Office for Investment, Dr Peter Ramsaroop

NA Multilateral School acclaimed by CXC as model institution for CVQ

In a recent comprehensive audit conducted by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) during their visit to Guyana, the New Amsterdam Multilateral School (NAMS) has been distinguished as the exemplar institution for Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) in the country.

Out of nine schools evaluated by the delegation, NAMS emerged as the foremost model, receiving accolades for its exceptional state of readiness, meticulous preparation, and robust arrangements in the domain of technical education.

The delegation extensively commended the innovative initiatives and dedicated efforts undertaken by NAMS to establish and maintain all necessary systems for the proficient delivery of technical and vocational ed-

ucation. This recognition underscores the school’s commitment to excellence and sets a benchmark for vocational education standards within the region.

Teachers at the school have expressed their deep satisfaction and pride in knowing that their dedicated efforts have been recognised and approved by the regional examination body.

Sir Tamesh Mohabir, an Industrial Technology instructor, shared his perspective, noting that he

had reached a point in his career where he believed he had accomplished all that was possible within his field. However, the introduction of the CVQ program has opened new avenues for achievement and professional growth, reigniting his passion and commitment to education. This program has not only validated the hard work of the teachers but also promises to enhance learning experiences and opportunities for students.

“This presented me

EPA sounds warning over....

The Saharan Dust Plume is a layer of sand, dirt and dust lifted from the Sahara Desert in North Africa. It is transported by the trade winds from North Africa over the Atlantic Ocean, through the Caribbean and South America. The reach of the plume is dependent on the wind and weather. The Saharan Dust Plume is a normal phenomenon that may occur several times throughout the year.

The elderly, children, and persons who have respiratory and skin conditions are being encouraged to take necessary precautions. During this time, persons are encouraged to spend more time indoors, and to wear dust masks as practicable.

Data collected by the EPA on the Saharan Dust Plume within the last two years indicates peak concentrations may occur in January, March, April, August and September.

The Health Ministry

had previously warned persons with vulnerable conditions to protect themselves amid the low air quality brought on by the Saharan Dust, which can post significant health risks.

While particulate pollution would affect everyone, some people are more vulnerable to experiencing health problems. They include babies, children, older adults, and persons with asthma and other respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

According to the Health Ministry in February of this year, breathing in dust can immediately affect a person, causing coughing, asthma attacks, scratchy throat, irritated sinuses, and skin and eye irritation.

“This is a result of the Saharan Dust, a type of particulate matter that comes from the Sahara Desert in Northern Africa (and) can be harmful to your health,” the Health

with a new challenge and now that we’ve successfully completed it, it has renewed my spirit and rejuvenated me in terms of my career, because I have a new thing that I would’ve accomplished and I’m seeing more possibilities from this now.”

To ensure that the curriculum remains relevant and up to date with industry standards and requirements, Sir Mohabir explained that the school actively collaborates with various industries and workshops. This collaboration provides students with a clear understanding of current practices in factories, ensuring that their knowledge is contemporary and not outdated.

In preparation for the audit, the school undertook several initiatives to meet the required standards. These efforts included upgrading facilities to meet industry bench-

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Ministry had said.

The dust comprises particles that can be blown through highspeed winds and transported thousands of miles through the air. The Health Ministry is advising that persons take necessary measures to reduce exposure to the polluted air. This can be done by limiting the amount of time spent outside.

“If you have to be outside, reduce your exposure to the dust by wearing an N95 or KN95 face mask. Ensure it fits tightly, and you wear it correctly at all times”, the Health Ministry had further advised.

It has also been recommended that persons perform easy activities, like walking as opposed to running. The ministry has outlined, “If you experience difficulty breathing, or other symptoms that are quickly progressing, visit your nearest health facility for medical assistance.”

marks, correctly displaying signs and symbols, and marking safety lanes appropriately.

Sir Adrian Somar, the Metal Work Engineering instructor at NAMS, elaborated on these steps, emphasising the importance of maintaining a safe and professional learning environment.

Additionally, Sir Somar highlighted that students were taken on field trips to external workshops and facilities. These excursions are designed to give students firsthand experience of the working world, reinforcing the relevance and applicability of their schoolwork. By witnessing industry practices up close, students gain valuable insights and a practical understanding of the skills they are developing, further bridging the gap between their education and future careers.

The Caribbean

Vocational Qualification (CVQ) program, commonly known as CVQ, is grounded in a competency-based approach to training, assessment, and certification.

Candidates are required to demonstrate their proficiency by meeting occupational standards set by practitioners, industry experts, and employers. Once these standards are approved by CARICOM, they facilitate smooth mobility across the region. The CVQ framework is designed to encompass five levels of qualification, ensuring a comprehensive and structured pathway for vocational excellence. CVQs are awarded to candidates who meet the required standards in all prescribed units of study. Schools that are suitably equipped currently offer Levels 1 and 2 of the CVQ framework.

Man accused of killing Corentyne welder died by suicide – autopsy

Days after the family of Suyjit Ramotar, also known as “Mono”, a 53-year-old rice farmer from Letter Kenny Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), called on the Police to investigate his death, an autopsy has confirmed that he died by suicide.

The autopsy was performed by Dr Nehaul Singh on Wednesday.

Ramotar had previously confessed to the murder of Joshua Hardatt, also known as “Money”, a welder from Bloomfield Village, Corentyne. Ramotar was found dead in the Whim Police Station’s lock-ups just hours after Police had instituted murder charges against him. He was due to appear at the Whim Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the autopsy on Hardatt’s remains determined his cause of death as shock and haem-

Dead: Suyjit Ramotar, also called “Mono”

orrhage due to lacerations to the brain from multiple skull fractures.

Following Ramotar's death, his family demanded a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his demise.

His brother, Chandradat Ramotar, told Guyana Times that after learning of his death, he, and other family members went to the Police Station seeking answers, but were not given any information.

Another brother reported receiving a call from the Police, who in-

formed him of the death, stating that Ramotar had died in the lock-ups.

Ramotar had confessed to his family that he had committed the murder and expected to be charged, asking them to take care of his assets and children.

Lalita Hardatt, Joshua's mother, expressed mixed emotions over the news, feeling a sense of relief but was still deeply hurt by her son's death.

Ramotar was arrested after the murder and confessed during interrogation. He claimed he attacked Hardatt, accusing him of having an affair with his wife while he was in prison. The confrontation turned violent when Hardatt denied the accusation, leading to his fatal injuries.

After realising the gravity of his actions, Ramotar drove away and abandoned his car before leaving the region. (G9)

NA Multilateral School

Ameena Gafoor lecture at Warwick University focuses on life of Dr Cheddi Jagan

Alecture titled, “Cheddi Jagan: Developmentalist and Political Visionary” was given at the University of Warwick by former Guyanese President Donald Ramotar.

The Ameena Gafoor Lecture, which was hosted last week, was focused on Dr Jagan’s fight against colonialism that propelled him unto the centre stage of international politics.

In the 1950s, Dr Jagan commanded global coverage in most countries under British rule.

So popular had he become that the American journalist, Arthur Sutton said of him that he was “one of the most personable politicians in the Western Hemisphere. From the

1950s onwards Jagan instituted a series of measures to reduce poverty and provide educational opportunities for Guyanese Elsa Hayland from the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in visiting British Guiana in 1950 noted that she had rarely seen such terrible signs of malnutrition and was shocked to the bone.”

Dr Jagan himself in a newspaper article, “Eradicate Slums”, wrote about the appalling condition of housing in Georgetown, never mind the shacks in the rural sugar estates. Schools were few and diseases like gastroenteritis killed hundreds of children.

Dr Jagan encouraged communities to form selfhelp groups to build social

Dr

and physical infrastructure. Several schools and health clinics were built using this method. The Government provided materials and technical oversight whilst the community provided the laborite number of houses built in 1957 was more

than the colonial authorities had been able to build in almost a decade. Dr Jagan’s plans to greatly improve the East Coast Demerara Road as well as the Georgetown Hospital which were blocked by the colonial authorities who also stopped his attempt to industrialise the country by building a glass factory, a cooking oil factory, a canning factory, an instant coffee factory, a leather factory etc.

Plans for a hydroelectric power plant were stifled by the colonial office but Dr Jagan, however, was eventually able to create institutions like the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA), to train farmers, and the University of Guyana, to educate young people. He actively encouraged the ex-

pansion of the private sector so as to access funding. He also obtained internal and external funding to create the Bank of Guyana which started operations in 1965, a year after he was maneuvered out of office by the British and the CIA.

The annual lecture

named after Ameena Gafoor was established at the University of Warwick in 2017 under the direction of Professor David Dabydeen who now heads the Ameena Gafoor Institute, with a team of distinguished scholars like Dr Maria Kaladeen, Dr Lynne Macedo, Professor Amar Wahab and Ben Jacob. Previous Lecturers include Professor Brinsley Samaroo, the doyen of Caribbean historians, Professor Patricia Mohammed (University of the West Indies) and Arlen Harris, the veteran award-winning UK television producer. The Lecture reflects and honours the humane intellectual and artistic values promoted by Ameena Gafoor in Guyana and the Caribbean over many decades.

CCJ to hear Govt’s Parliamentary Secretaries appeal on July 30

The Government of Guyana has approached the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to overturn the local courts decision to annul the appointments of Vickash Ramkissoon and Sarah Browne as Parliamentary Secretaries. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall on Tuesday filed written submissions.

During his weekly programme ‘Issues in the News’, Nandlall said the case is fixed for July 30, 2024. He is confident that the CCJ will rule in favour of the Government.

“I have spoken at length of a distinct pattern that in certain types of cases, the Court of Appeal rules against the Government and the Caribbean Court of Justice reverses the court of Appeal’s [judgement] and this has been a consistent pattern in these types of cases,” he said.

Opposition Chief Whip Christopher Jones in 2020 challenged the appointments of Ramkissoon and Browne as Parliamentary Secretaries to the Amerindian Affairs and Agriculture Ministries respectively.

He had contended that Browne and Ramkissoon cannot be appointed as non-elected parliamentarians, since they were named on the List of Candidates presented by the PPP/C for the March 2, 2020, General and

Regional Elections. Jones’ case was first upheld by acting Chief Justice Roxane George in 2021 and in 2023, Court of Appeal Judge Dawn Gregory affirmed George’s ruling. In dismissing the appeal, Gregory ruled that Browne and Ramkissoon were not lawful members of the National Assembly since they were on the candidate list.

According to Gregory, CJ George did not misconstrue the constitution when she found that the appellants were not eligible to be appointed as non-voting members. The Court of Appeal noted that the Chief Justice acted in law and the principle of stare decisis, by following the precedent set in Attorney General vs Morian, which was first decided by now-late Chief Justice Ian Chang in 2016 and whose decision was later affirmed by the Court

of Appeal.

Justice Gregory noted that the definition of qualified to be elected was intended to refer to persons who had never faced the electorate.

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, in his appeal against Justice George’s decision had argued, among other things, that the Chief Justice erred and misdirected herself in law by failing to appreciate that although there are similarities in the two cases (Technocrat Ministers/ Parliamentary Secretaries), there are also differences in the constitutional regime regarding the appointment of Technocratic Ministers in comparison to Parliamentary Secretaries.

He had submitted that historically, in Guyana, Parliamentary Secretaries were appointed from among members of the

National Assembly, and the category of persons who may be appointed as Parliamentary Secretaries was expanded in the 1980 Constitution to include persons who were qualified to be elected.

He reminded that in the ninth Parliament, Pauline Sukhai, now Amerindian Affairs Minister, whose name appeared on the List of Candidates for the PPP/C, was appointed a Parliamentary Secretary

$2.5M

to assist the tourism minister as a non-elected member of the National Assembly, without any objection for the duration of that Parliament.

He also reminded that during the tenth Parliament, Joseph Hamilton, now Labour Minister, whose name did not appear on the List of Candidates for PPP/C or any other List of Candidates, was appointed a Parliamentary

Secretary as a non-elected member without any objection for the duration of that Parliament. Having regard to these circumstances, Nandlall had argued that the appeal against the Chief Justice’s ruling is not only grounded in merit, but raises fundamental issues of interpretation of the Constitution, as well as issues integral to Guyana’s parliamentary and constitutional democracy.

labour complaints...

The Digital Complaints and Information Management System which can be accessed on Google Play and the Apple Store allows its members to track their complaints at the various levels at the Labour Ministry.

Notably, the system will not replace the existing walk-in service, given that the ministry’s primary goal is to resolve all complaints amicably, and to ensure that the process is fair, transparent and without prejudice or bias.

“I would hope that the application can be useful and be helpful to the citizens of Guyana to resolve their problems that might come from time to time. We are open, we ready and we are giving free service,” he added.

When an employee makes a complaint, the

ministry invites both the employer and the employee to a meeting to hear both parties and then based on the facts and circumstances, a decision/recommendation is made in keeping with Guyana’s labour laws.

If the decision made is in favour of the employee, and the employer does not honour that decision, then the case is taken to the Magistrate’s Court for enforcement.

Since assuming office, Government has established officers in all administrative regions, moving their complement from nine to 30 workers.

In less than four years, 6,872 workplace inspections were conducted by the Ministry, thereby reaching more than 15,000 workers.

Regular workplace inspections have continued in all regions to ensure that

businesses and companies comply with all regulations. In 2023, more than 2700 inspections were conducted and two employers were charged for paying their workers’ below minimum wage.

Hamilton shared that there were 5,497 complaints under the former Administration. In comparison, that same period under the PPP saw 3,103 complaints.

The Ministry also recovered $160 million in restitution where employees were owed by employers – including $69 million for last year.

The Labour Minister also revealed that workplace deaths have been down by 37 per cent, when compared to the last year of the APNU/AFC’s term. At that time, the death toll stood at 32 persons. (G1)

Cheddi Jagan

Former President Donald Ramotar

Vickash Ramkissoon

Sarah Browne

Regional

Climate lawsuits build as a Latin American court hears largest case ever Mexico presidential frontrunner Sheinbaum slightly widens lead – poll

Latin America’s human rights court held a final hearing in Brazil on Wednesday in a case that’s part of a global wave of climate litigation, as several international courts prepare first-time opinions on what countries must do to combat climate change.

The rulings could also set off a wave of new litigation brought by citizens, businesses, and governments.

Enforcement of such decisions is largely untested, however. A Swiss parliamentary committee last week rejected a ruling for example by a top European court that said Switzerland had violated the human rights of its citizens by not doing enough to prevent climate change.

The Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR), which holds jurisdiction over 20 Latin American and Caribbean countries, hopes to issue its advisory opinion by year’s end, top Justice Nancy Hernandez Lopez told Reuters. The final hearing on Wednesday was being held in the Amazon rainforest city of Manaus.

Already last week, the international tribunal set up under the UN Law of the Seas decided that carbon emissions amount to marine pollution and that countries must go beyond the Paris Agreement to protect oceans.

Next year, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is expected to have its say and could attempt to draw the earlier court decisions into one global ruling applicable to all UN members.

“The reason for (the wave of litigation) is peo-

Inter-American Court of Human Rights Judges Rodrigo Mudrovitsch, Humberto Sierra and Court President Nancy Hernandez attend the opening of the hearings on a landmark climate change case that joins a growing wave of global litigation aimed at pushing countries to step up the fight against climate change in Manaus, Brazil, May 27, 2024 (Reuters/Bruno Kelly photo)

ple’s deep frustration that their elected representatives are not taking rapid and fair climate action,” said Lucy Maxwell, co-director of the nonprofit Climate Litigation Network.

“The climate litigation landscape is really broad and diverse and massively growing.”

Setting precedents

While multilateral court opinions apply only to the states under their jurisdiction, they are all grappling with the same central question: Are Governments obligated to protect people from climate change? And if so – to what degree?

That question is taking courts into uncharted territory, as there is little legal precedent on climate change. In deliberating, court judges have been reviewing climate science, holding hearings and digging through a tangle of laws, treaties and UN proceedings.

That process has made the case before the Inter-American Court the largest to date – with more than 600 participants at hearings held in Brazil and Barbados, as well as 262 written

submissions to the court from Indigenous groups, civil society, scientists and one company.

Such inclusivity helps give the court its reputation among the world’s most progressive, lawyers said.

By comparison, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has restricted submissions in its case mostly to countries and authorities like the World Health Organisation.

The Latin American court might also borrow arguments from earlier national climate cases, even if they are outside its jurisdiction, said senior lawyer Sophie Marjanac at the legal charity ClientEarth.

Globally, most past court decisions on climate have focused on countries causing harm by failing to sufficiently cut greenhouse gas emissions, including last month’s ruling against Switzerland.

But the opinion from the Inter-American Court could go further by ruling on whether States also must adapt to climate change or pay for damages already caused by climate extremes.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Mexican ruling party candidate Claudia Sheinbaum slightly extended her large lead over her main rival in the contest for the presidency on June 2, an opinion poll showed on Wednesday.

The May 22-27 survey by polling firm Parametria showed Sheinbaum, from the National Regeneration Movement (MORENA) with 50 per cent support, ahead of Xochitl

Galvez, the candidate for an Opposition alliance of three parties, with 34 per cent.

A prior April survey by the firm showed Sheinbaum, Mexico City’s former Mayor, at 44 per cent support, and businesswoman-turned-politician Galvez at 31 per cent.

The poll gave a third contender, Jorge Alvarez Maynez of the Opposition centre-left Citizens’ Movement (MC), backing of 13 per cent, an increase

of five points over April.

The face-to-face poll of 1000 people had a 3.1 per cent margin of error.

The vast majority of Mexican polls have pointed to Sheinbaum winning comfortably in Sunday’s election.

Sheinbaum, a 61-year-old scientist who has been a close ally of the current President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador for decades, could become the first woman to rule the country. (Reuters)

Argentina Government unblocks key Petrobras gas shipment amid supply cuts

Argentina’s government, facing domestic gas shortages and targeted service cuts, said on Wednesday that it had unblocked the unloading of a key Petrobras gas shipment, which it added should stabilise local supply.

Recent cold weather had already hit gas supplies in the South American country, but that worsened when the unloading of the gas shipment was halted over payment issues, sparking shortages of

compressed natural gas (CNG) at filling stations.

The energy secretariat said in a statement that State energy body Enarsa had bought a 44 million cubic meter (m3) liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipment from Petrobras on Friday that was meant to begin unloading today.

“But at the last minute the company challenged the letter of credit with which the fuel was to be paid and did not authorise the unloading of the LNG at the Escobar terminal,” it said.

It added this had led to supply to non-priority users including industry, thermoelectric plants and filling stations being cut to protect hospitals, schools, homes, and businesses.

“The objective is to continue supplying the ‘priority demand’ and residential homes”, the government said, adding that the unblocking of the shipment should mean that “throughout the day the situation of supply cuts will be regularised”.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Lula removes Brazilian Ambassador to Israel amid diplomatic spat

Brazilian President Luiz

Inacio Lula da Silva removed his Ambassador to Israel from his post and sent him to serve as his special representative in Geneva amid a diplomatic spat between the two countries, the official gazette showed on Wednesday.

The removal of Frederico Meyer comes a few months after

Lula called him back to Brazil. Meyer’s recall had followed Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz summoning Meyer to tell him Lula was persona non grata in the Middle Eastern country.

Israel’s move was related to Lula’s remarks likening Israel’s war on Gaza to the Holocaust.

Meyer had not returned to Israel since then.

He will now serve as

Brazil’s special representative to the United Nations and other international organisations in Geneva.

A new Brazilian Ambassador to Israel will be announced in due course, Brazil’s Foreign Relations Ministry said in a statement, adding that until then, its embassy in Tel Aviv will be led by its Charge D’affaires.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Around the World

IOIL NEWS

Iran to launch US$4.6B worth of oil projects

ran will soon launch 32 oil industry projects worth a total investment of US$4.6 billion, Iranian Petroleum Minister Jawad Owji said on Wednesday.

Iran has also begun work on 50 new oil projects worth a total of over US$50 billion, Iranian media quoted Owji as saying.

Since 2021, Iran has boosted its oil production by 60 per cent, the Oil Minister said earlier in May.

In the latest Iranian calendar year to March 19, 2024, the Islamic Republic boosted its oil and gas production by 20 per cent compared to the previous Iranian year, Owji added.

Iran has signed new contracts for the development of oil fields worth US$13 billion, planning to add 350,000 barrels per day (bpd) to its production, State news agency Shana reported in March.

The deals are the biggest in the energy space for the past decade and they were all signed with local companies, according to Minister Owji.

The production increase effort will focus on six fields, including the biggest one that Iran shares with neighbour Iraq – Azadegan – and its oldest producing field, Masjed Soleyman. The latter is the oldest producing field in the Middle East, with a total output to date of over a billion barrels.

Iran plans to increase its crude oil output to four million bpd, the country’s Tasnim news agency reported earlier this week, as cited by Reuters.

No specific sources for the plan were provided, but the original report in Tasnim said that “An economic council headed by Iran’s interim President Mohammad Mokhber has approved a plan to raise the country’s oil output from 3.6 million barrels per day to four million barrels per day.”

Iran has been eager to increase its oil production despite US sanctions that have significantly reduced the market for Iranian oil. Even so, Iran reported an increase in exports of crude recently, with the average daily for the first quarter hitting the highest in six years at 1.56 million bpd according to Vortexa data. Last year, the country exported 1.29 million bpd on average, which was 50 per cent more than a year earlier. (Oilprice.com)

Israel seizes Gaza’s entire border with Egypt, presses with raids into Rafah

Israeli forces have taken control of a buffer zone along the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt, the country’s military said on Wednesday, giving Israel effective authority over the Palestinian territory’s entire land border.

Israel also continued deadly raids on Rafah in southern Gaza despite an order from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to end attacks on the city, where half of Gaza’s 2.3 million people had previously taken refuge.

In a televised briefing, chief military spokesperson Daniel Hagari said

Ukraine’s

Israeli forces had gained “operational” control over the “Philadelphi Corridor”, using the Israeli military’s code name for the 14 kilometre-long (nine-mile) corridor along the Gaza Strip’s only border with Egypt.

“The Philadelphi Corridor served as an oxygen line for Hamas, which it regularly used to smuggle weapons into the area of the Gaza Strip,” Hagari said. Hamas is the armed Palestinian group that governs the blockaded territory.

Israeli armoured personnel carriers (APC) operate, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, near Israel’s border with Gaza in southern Israel, May 29, 2024

Hagari did not spell out what “operational” control referred to but an Israeli military official earlier said there were Israeli “boots on the ground” along parts of the corridor.

Zelenskiy says Russia putting pressure on countries to shun peace summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Wednesday that Russia was still trying to disrupt next month’s world “peace summit” devoted to the conflict with Russia and was putting pressure on countries to stay away from the gathering.

Zelenskiy wants the summit, scheduled for June 1516 in Switzerland, to produce a front to exert pressure on Russia and advance his “peace formula” -- which calls for the withdrawal of Russian troops and the restoration of Ukraine’s 1991 borders.

In his nightly video ad-

US to boycott UN tribute to Iran leader killed in helicopter crash

The United States will boycott a United Nations tribute today to Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who was killed earlier this month in a helicopter crash, a US official said.

The 193-member UN General Assembly traditionally meets to pay tribute to any world leader who was a sitting Head of State at the time of their death. The tribute will feature speeches about Raisi.

“We won’t attend this event in any capacity,” a US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters. The US boy-

cott has not previously been reported. Raisi, a hardliner who had been seen as a potential successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed when his helicopter came down in poor weather in mountains near the Azerbaijan border on May 19.

“The United Nations should be standing with the people of Iran, not memorialising their decades-long oppressor,” said the US official. “Raisi was involved in numerous, horrific human rights abuses, including the ex-

trajudicial killings of thousands of political prisoners in 1988.”

“Some of the worst human rights abuses on record, especially against the women and girls of Iran, took place during his tenure,” the official said.

The UN Security Council stood at the beginning of an unrelated meeting for a moment of silence on May 20 to remember the victims of the helicopter crash. Deputy US Ambassador to the UN, Robert Wood reluctantly stood with his 14 counterparts. (Excerpt from Reuters)

dress, Zelenskiy said “nearly 100 countries and international organisations” were now associated with “global efforts” to resolve the conflict.

“Russia will no longer be able to disrupt the summit although it is trying very hard to do so,” Zelenskiy said.

“It is putting pressure on leaders, openly threatening various countries with destabilisation. And this is one of the consequences of the world giving the terrorist state too much time.”

He said officials from Ukraine’s Government, Parliament and other institutions were working to ensure maximum participation and to make the summit “truly effective, which is needed to bring real peace closer”.

The summit’s Swiss hosts have not invited Russia, and Moscow dismisses the event as pointless without its participation.

The Kremlin says it is prepared to negotiate on an end to the conflict and suggests as a starting point talks held in the war’s first weeks in 2022 which appeared to be close to an agreement, which Ukrainian negotiators then rejected.

Moscow dismisses Zelenskiy’s plan as unworkable and says any discussion must take into account “new realities”, including the fact that Russia holds about 18 per cent of Ukraine’s territory.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

The border with Egypt along the southern edge was the Gaza Strip’s only land border that Israel had not controlled directly.

Earlier on Wednesday, Israel sent tanks on raids into Rafah. They had moved into the heart of Rafah for the first time on Tuesday despite an order from the top United Nations court to immediately halt the assault on the city.

The World Court said Israel had not explained how it would keep evacuees from Rafah safe and provide food, water and medicine. Its ruling also called on Hamas to immediately and

unconditionally release hostages taken from Israel on October 7.

Rafah residents said Israeli tanks had pushed into Tel Al-Sultan in the west and Yibna and near Shaboura in the centre before retreating towards a buffer zone on the border with Egypt, rather than staying put as they have in other offensives.

Palestinian health officials said 19 civilians had been killed in Israeli airstrikes and shelling across Gaza. Israel accuses Hamas militants of hiding among civilians, something Gaza’s ruling Islamist group denies.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

South Africans vote in most competitive election since apartheid ended

South Africans voted on Wednesday in the most competitive election since the end of apartheid, amid high turnout and with opinion polls suggesting the African National Congress (ANC) may lose its parliamentary majority after 30 years in government.

Well after dark, voters were still forming mileslong queues to cast their ballots. Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo told a news conference that turnout “will be well beyond the 66 PER CENT we had in 2019”.

The Electoral Commission said polling stations would stay open for anyone who was in line at the closing time at 21:00h (1900 GMT). Two

hours later, only 55 per cent of polling stations nationwide had closed.

“We are experiencing a late surge and are processing a large number of votes in certain areas, particularly the metropolitan areas,” Mamabolo said.

Voters cited high rates of unemployment and crime, frequent power blackouts and corruption in ANC ranks as reasons why they would vote for Opposition parties.

Then-led by Nelson Mandela, the ANC swept to power in South Africa’s first multi-racial election in 1994 and has won a majority in national elections held every five years since then, though its share of the vote has gradually declined. (Excerpt from Reuters)

(Reuters/Ronen Zvulun photo)

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Think before sharing your thoughts. Focus on getting things done. Take time to do something that builds confidence and a healthy, positive attitude.

Call out to people who will pitch in and help make a difference. Be careful not to upset someone you love. A kind gesture will go far. Now's the time to make some changes.

Watch, observe and change only what's necessary. Aim for stability and security, and stop worrying about impressing others. Be true to yourself and stay focused on what's important to you.

Embrace change. Implement new pastimes, friendships and fresh starts into your life. The people you meet and the conversations you have will encourage you to express yourself more.

Put the wheels in motion. Take advantage of any chance you get to explore new possibilities. Attend functions that look promising. Don't be shy; introduce yourself to people you feel drawn to.

Do whatever is necessary to sidestep situations that can make you look bad or put you in jeopardy. By being a good listener, you'll avoid misinterpretation. Learn from experience.

Travel, entertainment and hobbies are favored. Get involved in networking functions or conferences that can open your eyes to a host of options. You'll encounter someone who intrigues you.

You'll see things differently. Gravitate toward like-minded people who can help point you in the right direction. Someone you haven't seen in a while will do something surprising.

Be honest regarding your feelings. Distance yourself from anyone or anything that can jeopardize your reputation. Don't neglect domestic issues or living conditions that need attention.

Tidy up your surroundings, set a budget and consider making changes that promote comfort and convenience. Don't let anger set in when your energy is better spent on positive things.

Be open about how you feel and what you intend to do next. Don't give in to emotional manipulation or feel you must put up with demands that go against your beliefs.

Embrace what brings you joy. Take responsibility for your happiness and follow through with a pursuit that boosts your morale and enthusiasm.

your way.

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES PICKLES

T20 World Cup Group C preview…

West Indies headline evenly-matched quintet

Two-time champions and co-hosts, West Indies, are grouped with New Zealand, Afghanistan, Uganda and Papua New Guinea at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

West Indies and New Zealand are the top-ranked teams in Group C, but will face strong resistance from Afghanistan, Uganda, and Papua New Guinea as they aim to make it through to the second round.

West Indies

A series victory against defending champions, England, towards the end of last year revealed how dangerous a full-strength West Indies side can be. Despite their lacklustre performance in the 2022 edition, the Rovman Powell-led side pose a major threat this time around.

They are well covered in all departments, with several all-rounders and big-hitters capable of swinging games adding to their x-factor. The surprise inclusion in their squad for the tournament is Shamar Joseph, uncapped in T20Is until featuring against South Africa recently, but clearly a supreme talent in the making, as he showed in Australia during the Test series at the start of the year.

West Indies also get a fairly easier start to the tournament, with games against the lower-ranked teams in the group, PNG and Uganda. If they start well, the co-hosts will be favourites to top the group.

Squad

Rovman Powell (c), Alzarri Joseph, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd.

Fixtures

Sun, 2 June 2024: West Indies vs Papua New Guinea in Guyana, 10:30am local time

Sat, 8 June 2024: West Indies vs Uganda in Guyana, 08:30pm local time

Wed, 12 June 2024: West Indies vs New Zealand in Trinidad, 08:30pm local time

Mon, 17 June 2024: West Indies vs Afghanistan in St. Lucia, 08:30pm local time.

New Zealand

New Zealand made very little change from the 2022 edition to this one with their squad selection. It highlights the consistency in selection on the one hand, and also how well-rounded the Blackcaps are as a unit.

They are also well prepared for the event with 36 T20Is under their belt since the end of the last T20 World Cup, the most among full-member teams.

The depth of talent at their disposal was evident in the recent T20I series in Pakistan, where a second-string squad managed to level the series.

Kane Williamson, who will be playing his sixth T20 World Cup, will lead a strong side that has a wealth of experience alongside the exuberance of youth in the likes of Rachin Ravindra, who sizzled with the bat in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, and the exciting Finn Allen. Veterans Trent Boult and Tim Southee will lead the pace attack, which also has Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry. There are ample options in the spin department too, with Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Michael Bracewell and Rachin Ravindra.

New Zealand open their campaign against Afghanistan in Guyana, and then take on co-hosts West Indies in Trinidad.

Squad

Kane Williamson (c), Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee. Travelling Reserve: Ben Sears.

Fixtures Fri, 7 June 2024: New Zealand vs Afghanistan in Guyana, 07:30pm local time Wed, 12 June 2024: New Zealand vs West Indies in Trinidad, 08:30pm local time Fri, 14 June 2024: New Zealand vs Uganda in Trinidad, 08:30pm local time.

Mon, 17 June 2024: New Zealand vs Papua New Guinea in Trinidad, 10:30am local time.

Afghanistan Afghanistan are ranked 10th in the ICC Men’s T20I

Team Rankings, but are more than capable of pulling off big wins. They recorded series victories against UAE (twice), Pakistan and Ireland since the end of the last T20 World Cup, and also reached the final of the Asian Games Men’s Cricket Competition, where they lost to India.

The squad is boosted by the return of Rashid Khan after the leg-spinner’s long

Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik. Reserves: Sediq Atal, Hazratullah Zazai, Saleem Safi.

Fixtures

Mon, 3 June 2024: Afghanistan vs Uganda in Guyana, 08:30pm local time Fri, 7 June 2024: Afghanistan vs New Zealand in Guyana,

side Namibia in the Africa Qualifier, as they sealed their berth in the mega event.

Uganda have a stellar record leading up to the tournament, with 41 wins in their last 49 T20Is, a win percentage of 83.67 percent. Led by Brian Masaba, Uganda will feature in the tournament with plenty of experience in the squad.

The 43-year-old Frank

injury layoff. He leads a versatile spin department that also has the likes of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Nangyal Kharoti and veteran Mohammad Nabi.

Afghanistan begin their campaign against Uganda in Guyana on June 3.

Squad

Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Ishaq, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Nangyal Kharoti, Mujeeb

07:30pm local time

Thur, 13 June 2024: Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea in Trinidad, 08:30pm local time Mon, 17 June 2024: Afghanistan vs West Indies in St. Lucia, 08:30pm local time.

Uganda Uganda secured a spot in the T20 World Cup by comfortably defeating Rwanda in their last match of the Africa region qualifier. With five wins in six games, Uganda was the standout team along-

Henry Ssenyondo, Bilal Hassun, Robinson Obuya, Riazat Ali Shah, Juma Miyaji, Ronak Patel. Travelling Reserves: Innocent Mwebaze, Ronald Lutaaya.

Fixtures

Mon, 3 June 2024: Uganda vs Afghanistan in Guyana, 08:30pm local time

Wed, 5 June 2024: Uganda vs Papua New Guinea in Guyana, 07:30pm local time.

Sat, 8 June 2024: Uganda vs West Indies in Guyana, 08:30pm local time.

Fri, 14 June 2024: Uganda vs New Zealand in Trinidad, 08:30pm local time.

Papua New Guinea

Like Uganda, PNG come into the tournament with an impeccable record of 14 wins in their last 18 games.

They are led by the enterprising Assad Vala, and are set to appear for the second time at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Papua New Guinea maintained an unbeaten record in the qualifiers, winning six consecutive matches. With plenty of all-rounders in the squad, PNG have a versatile unit that can test the bigger teams in the group.

Papua New Guinea kick off their campaign with a challenging opening match against the host nation, West Indies, on June 2. They then face Uganda on June 5, followed by matches against Afghanistan and New Zealand.

Nsubuga aside, the squad also features Alpesh Ramjani, who was one of the nominees for the 2023 ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year.

Uganda play their first three games in Guyana, and have the opportunity to spring a surprise from Group C.

Squad

Brian Masaba (c), Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Cosmas Kyewuta, Dinesh Nakrani, Fred Achelam, Kenneth Waiswa, Alpesh Ramjani, Frank Nsubuga,

Squad Assadollah Vala (c), Alei Nao, Chad Soper, CJ Amini, Hila Vare, Hiri Hiri, Jack Gardner, John Kariko, Kabua Vagi Morea, Kipling Doriga, Lega Siaka, Norman Vanua, Sema Kamea, Sese Bau, Tony Ura.

Fixtures

Sun, 2 June 2024: Papua New Guinea vs West Indies in Guyana, 10:30am local time Wed, 5 June 2024: Papua New Guinea vs Uganda in Guyana, 07:30pm local time

Thur, 13 June 2024: Papua New Guinea vs Afghanistan in Trinidad, 08:30pm local time

Mon, 17 June 2024: Papua New Guinea vs New Zealand in Trinidad, 10:30am local time.

The West Indies team are eyeing a record third T20 World Cup

5th on the World T20 rankings, New Zealand will be making a case for themselves

Inaugural diaspora talent ID camp set for July in US

Young football players of Guyanese lineage who are residing overseas will have a chance to earn a spot in Guyana’s youth national training programme through the inaugural diaspora talent identification camp which will be held in July in the United States.

Organised by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the Blackpool Sports Club of North America (BSCNA), the camp is tailored for players aged 14 to 19, and will be held from July 26 to 28 at the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus in Orlando, Florida.

Registration for participation will be done via an online portal, and the camp will be an immersive experience for young male and female players in the diaspora, featuring sessions specifically designed to identify and catalogue talent for Guyana’s national youth teams.

In 2023, GFF and BSCNA signed a historic three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to pave the way for the creation of the GFF’s first International Player

Scouting Network (IPSN) with a strategic focus on methodically pinpointing, enlisting, and nurturing young footballers.

GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph has shared, “We are excited to see the young talent in the diaspora. It is President Wayne Forde’s philosophy that the best talent that has Guyanese lineage should be afforded the opportunity to represent our nation. This opportunity will provide further

ASTROLOGY/SPIRITUALITY

insight on what talent is available for our national player pool. We will catalogue that information, and exploit it as practicable as possible along with our localised high-performance programme.”

Renaud Peters, President of BSCNA, noted, “In our ever-strengthening partnership with the GFF, the BSCNA is proud to play a pivotal role in the advancement of our beloved sport. As Guyana aims for greater heights

Real’s Jude Bellingham voted LaLiga Player of the Season

Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has been voted LaLiga Player of the Season, after playing a pivotal role in leading the club to their 36th league title.

Bellingham edged out team-mate Vinicius Junior, Atletico Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann, Girona’s Artem Dovbyk, and Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski in votes cast by fans, club captains, and a panel of experts.

He scored 19 goals and had six assists in 28 league games this season, tallying 23 goals and 12 assists in all competitions in his first campaign with Los Blancos.

Bellingham could not attend Tuesday’s ceremony in Sardinia, as he is preparing for the Champions League final at Wembley against his former club Borussia Dortmund, but he said

he is honoured to have received the award. “I would like to dedicate it to my team-mates; the coaching staff; and, most importantly, to the fans of the best club in the world,” he said in a message. “It’s a pleasure every time I play for this team. Hala Madrid!”

The England star also won the 2022-23 Bundesliga Player of the Season prize while playing for Dortmund, before

moving to Real for a fee of around €103 million.

Earlier on Tuesday, Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl was full of praise for Bellingham. “I know how strong Jude is, and I know his personality very much, so he’s an amazing player, an amazing character, and of course he will do everything to win that final,” he said.

(Sportsmax)

in the global football arena, we are thrilled to redouble our efforts in the diaspora, working hand in hand with local talent to unlock the full potential of Guyanese football on the international stage. Together, we are poised to

make significant strides towards excellence and recognition in the world of football.”

Established in 1960 in the United States by former members of the local youth team St. Sidwell’s Rovers, BSCNA is a

Timberwolves hold off Mavericks to force Game 5

Anthony Edwards just missed a triple-double, KarlAnthony Towns scored 20 of his 25 points in the second half, and Minnesota Timberwolves held on to beat the Dallas Mavericks 105-100 on Tuesday, to avoid being swept in the Western Conference finals.

Facing a 3-0 series’ deficit on the road, the Wolves conjured their best defensive game of the series to force a Game 5 on Thursday night in Minneapolis.

Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks finished with 28 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists, but was held to 7-for-21 shooting. Kyrie Irving shot 6 of 18 from the field to finish with 16 points.

“That game’s on me. Just didn’t give enough energy,” Doncic told reporters after the game. “They won one game. We’ve just got to focus on the next one.”

Towns, who shot 27.8 per cent in the series’ first three games, was 9 of 13

from the floor, and made 4 of 5 from 3-point range.

Despite his redemptive performance on offence, Towns fouled out with 1:38 remaining, after falling for a Doncic pump fake at the 3-point line.

Edwards was assertive from the opening tip, scoring 14 points in the first quarter and finishing with 29 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists.

The Mavs pulled to within 100-97 with just over a minute remaining, before Edwards hit a midrange jumper to extend the Minnesota lead. On Dallas’s following possession, Kyle Anderson stole the ball from Irving to extinguish the threat.

The Mavericks played without standout rookie center Dereck Lively II, due to his having a neck sprain after taking a rough fall in Game 3.

No team has ever come back from a 3-0 series’ lead, and the Wolves will hope to keep the pressure on Dallas in Game 5. (Sportsmax)

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prominent Guyanese football club committed to promoting and popularising Guyanese football within the diaspora community.

GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph

The GFF signed an MoU with BSCNA back in 2023

Luka Doncic taking on Anthony Edwards during Game 4

Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham

Speed Capital Commission coaches begin work with local athletes

Agroup of international coaches from the Speed Capital Commission yesterday began a rigid vetting and training process with a large group of track and field athletes with an aim to hone and improve their skills.

The Speed Capitol Commission coaches, which are said to be focused on youth athletes’ development, have been brought in by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport for a threeday programme with athletes aged 11 to 22 years old.

The group of four coaches comprises Speed Capital President/CEO Luke Robinson, Senior VicePresident and Olympic Coach (For Erriyon Knighton) Jonathan Terry, Vice-President Earl Smith, and Head Track Coach/ Olympic Strength and Conditioning Coach Shelton Guilyard.

The programme commenced on Wednesday at the National Track and Field Centre (NTFC) at Leonora, WCD, where Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr. spoke of the reason for bringing in the coaches.

“Decoding of the talent development process was imperative for us to figure out how we’re going to take our talent to that world class level. Ultimately, that is the objective for any Government, where they want to see, if they’re mak-

ing any investment, the investment has to lead you somewhere. There’s a big gap and a big step that needs to be taken from where you are a very good athlete to becoming a great athlete,” the Sport Minister related. Ramson jr. went on to share, “We felt that it was important if we’re going to take the talent to the highest level, which is where we all want to go. Now, we felt that, because there is that gap, we have to bring down these coaches who have that expertise. They have the track record, and they could continuously engage with us, both the athlete side as well as the coaching side, so that they can transfer that information.”

President of the Speed Capital Commission, Luke Robinson, told the young athletes of the opportunities that their group can of-

fer, while encouraging them to take advantage of the investment being made.

“We are now proud to say that we have events scheduled in over 5 countries around the world, and over 4 events per annum. So those championship-style events that we do conduct, the individuals that are in this programme that we’re creating now, we will be sending invites for you guys to compete in Toronto Canada, Orlando Florida, Nassau Bahamas. So we look forward to you guys progressing throughout the programme, and then being able to test that new level that you’ve achieved,” he disclosed.

Robinson went on to urge the group, “In truth, there’s a massive amount of potential here, and you guys just need to tap into it on a

Jumbo Jet, AJM among major sponsors of Rising Sun Turf Club’s Gymkhana

The Rising Sun Turf Club in Region Five will be hosting a grand one-day Gymkhana on Sunday, June 16, and Jumbo Jet Auto Sales, AJM Enterprise, and Banks DIH are on board the event, which is expected to feature seven races.

The day’s events are expected to begin at noon, and close to two million dollars in cash and prizes will be up for the taking.

The race for animals rated G Class and Lower would be contested over seven furlongs, and entry is open to all horses. Winner of the event would be rewarded with G$300,000.

Other races on the Gymkhana card are as follows: the J Class and Lower; Three-year-old Guyana-bred winner of one race and maidens; the L Class race; the two-year-old trial; the L Class non-winner/low earner; the L Class low- earners of the day, and farm horses.

Five horses must start a race before third-place prize becomes payable, and seven horses must start a race before the fourth-place prize becomes payable. There will be no demotions or promotions at this event. Entries will be closed on June 12, 2024. Jockeys MUST be in dress code, and jockeys will be weighed.

The next major race in Guyana is set for July 1 at the Port Mourant Turf Club, followed by the Guyana Cup, which is set

consistent basis. Believe in yourself like we believe in you. This is a huge investment from your country, from your government, from the people that value and care for you and want the absolute best for you. Don’t let that go to waste, take advantage, because there’s tons of countries, tons of cities where this investment is not being made. I can assure you of that.”

Quizzed about expectations for the outcome of

the programme, the Sport Minister’s response indicated that he was looking beyond development to an entire cultural shift in the athletics arena.

“What I want to see, what my expectation is, is that they’ll see a shift in culture for the entire organization, which is specifically track and field athletes, coaches, persons involved in administration; and then that will then move our national conversation, so that

everybody is aware of what needs to be done, what we’re doing, and then support it. So, it goes back to the sustainability standpoint.”

The Speed Capital Commission coaches’ work with the Guyanese athletes will continue tomorrow, and is expected to be wrapped up on Friday. However, the Sport Minister mentioned the possibility of having the group return in about two months’ time for additional work with the local group.

West Indies get major boost in rankings ahead of T20 World Cup

– climb to fourth in the ICC Men’s T20I

Team Rankings

In the leadup to the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosts West Indies took on South Africa at home, and have made substantial gains in the ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings on the back of a 3-0 series win.

Despite missing a few big names, West Indies managed to sweep the series; and with the series win, West Indies (254 rating points), the champions of the 2012 and 2016 editions of the T20 World Cup, are at fourth place in the rankings.

for August 11 at the Rising Sun Turf Club.

This year’s Guyana Cup promises to be the biggest meet in the history of horse racing in Guyana, and it will be organized by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee. Rivalries are expected to be settled and new horses are expected to grace Guyanese shores to ignite Rising Sun Turf Club.

For entries, persons can contact: Buju +592 658 7637, Glen +1 (868) 3685192, Ginio +592 618 7278 and Fazal +592 611 1141.

The rankings are led by 2007 champions India (264 rating points), with 2021 champions Australia (257 rating points) and defending champions England (254 rating points) at second and third places respectively.

T20 World Cup stars make rankings rise on eve of tournament

There were individual bright spots for West Indies in the series, who gained substantially in the T20I Player Rankings. This included stand-in skipper Brandon King, whose 159 runs helped him jump up five places to the eighth position in the Men’s T20I

Batting Rankings.

His opening partner Johnson Charles, who hit a blistering 69 from 26 balls in a Player of the Match performance in the third game of the series, gained 17 spots to reach the 20th place.

Kyle Mayers (31st place in Batting Rankings) and Gudakesh Motie (27th place in Bowling Rankings) were the other beneficiaries from the recently concluded series.

These results bode well for the Men in Maroon, who will be looking for a record third title during their home

T20 World Cup. They are placed in Group C, alongside Afghanistan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Uganda.

West Indies will begin their T20 World Cup campaign on a positive note this Sunday, when they come up against Papua New Guinea at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence from 10:30hrs.

The global event will bowl off on the previous day in Texas, USA with a clash between co-hosts USA and Canada at the Grand

at 20:30hrs.

Prairie Stadium

Speed Capital Commission President/ CEO, Luke Robinson

Sport Minister Charles Ramson jr

Seven races are on the card for the June 16 Gymkhana

Local boy Gudakesh Motie has also advanced in the bowling rankings

Speed Capital Commission coaches, Charles Ramson Jr., DoS Steve Ninvalle, and other stakeholders engaging the youth athletes