Guyana Times - Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Toshao stabbed 19 times seen entering hotel room with Amerindian man

…Police hunting mystery man caught on camera

…slams Opposition MP for exploiting tragedy ...to use the tragic end of Toshao’s life as a political weapon is unconscionable – Teixeira

Businesswoman allegedly raped at knifepoint

M&CC allocates $8M to boost holiday garbage cleanup in 4 constituencies

T&T’s Education Minister, 2 children die in early-morning fire

2 Essequibo Coast men charged with larceny

The Palmyra multi-purpose stadium in Berbice is starting to take form (President Dr Irfaan Ali’s social media page photo)

Stronger system needed at GRA to stop revoked licences from being reissued – Traffic Chief

As the Guyana Police Force (GPF) works diligently to crack down on reckless behaviour on the nation’s roadways, Traffic Chief Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh has called for improved systems at the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to ensure that drivers whose licences have been revoked are prevented from obtaining their documents again within the specified timeframe.

In light of the increasing recklessness on Guyana’s roadways, President Dr Irfaan Ali last month announced that law enforcement officials will be moving to suspend the licences of drivers who have been caught speeding more than

three times along the Heroes Highway.

In an interview with Guyana Times on Monday, Traffic Chief Senior

Superintendent Mahendra Singh provided an update on the enforcement of this measure, noting that his department has been suspending drivers’ licences prior to the Commander in Chief’s order.

“Those measures would have been enforced daily prior to and even after the instructions of the Commander in Chief… Suspensions have taken place and yes, based on the instructions of the president, we have been enforcing as far as we can daily and even by night to ensure that we call what you deem to be the errant use of the road by some drivers.”

He revealed that 18 drivers’ licences were suspended prior to the Head of State’s announcement last month. Moreover, the traffic chief noted that based on the severity of the offences, suspensions can last from 4 months up to 2 years. However, he explained that mechanisms must be strengthened to ensure that there are no loopholes within the system when drivers licences have been revoked.

“One would always like to accuse the police to say that the system is porous. Today, my licence is revoked in region two, and I go right back to another region with a different address, and I can obtain a licence. A mechanism is in place and has to be

strengthened to prevent any such wherefore, when one is revoked, disqualified and or suspended, that information is circulated widely among the police and to the Guyana Revenue Authority to ensure that there is no slippage or in any way that the system could be beaten for the benefit of a person who has been revoked, disqualified and or suspended.”

Additionally, the traffic chief emphasised that his department continues to work around the clock to ensure safety on the roadways. He called for heightened law enforcement for traffic violations outside of speeding.

“Our focus cannot only be lorries and public transportation and speeding. It's all of the offences. So, it's not discretionary upon us to overlook what one does, referencing all the types of of-

fences, maintenance of tires or anything that opposes road safety, we can't overlook those just for the sake of speeding and faulty parking on the road.”

Meanwhile, in November Guyana Times had reported that 99 people lost their lives in fatal accidents so far for the year 2024 when compared to 148 in 2023.

In addition, 263 serious accidents, 366 minor accidents, and 1039 damage accidents were recorded thus far for 2024 bringing the total number to 1767 compared to 2491 last year.

As part of a stepped-up effort to reduce traffic violations, the force has issued around 60,000 tickets this year, totaling an astounding $400 million in traffic fines.

Only recently, the Government had already made amendments to

the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act as well as the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing (Amendment) Bill to toughen up the penalties for drunk drivers – and the bars that serve them. Among other things, the legislative changes make causing the death of someone through drunk driving a case of vehicular manslaughter.

The penalty for driving while over the legally allowed limit of alcohol in the blood system has been changed from a $7500 fine to now $200,000, and the sentence from 12 months to 24 months. The penalty for driving under the influence and losing control of your vehicle has been increased from $30,000 to $60,000 fine and 12 months’ imprisonment to now $200,000 fine for firsttime offenders and $300,000 for second-time offenders.

Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Tuesday, December 17 –03:45h- 05:15h and Wednesday, December 18 – 18:45h- 19:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Tuesday, December 17 –05:45h- 07:15h and Wednesday, December 18 – 06:30h- 20:00h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

$100K cash grant distribution begins in Region 8

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

of Finance and Bank of Guyana. According to the Ministry in its statement, the distribution is a fulfillment of the Government’s commitment to the citizens of Guyana.

“This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to providing financial aid to families in these regions. Made possible by a commitment from His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the distribution aims to alleviate financial

burdens, promote economic empowerment, and support local development,” the ministry said.

The Government had previously started cash grant distribution in Region Nine, while registration has been ongoing in various regions including Regions Four, One (Barima-Waini) and Seven (CuyuniMazaruni). The first stage was the registering of public servants, pensioners and persons in the hinterland

he Government has commenced distribution of the $100,000 cash grant in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), following on the heels of the distribution that began two weeks ago in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Last week, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had assured that the roll out of the $100,000 cash grant distribution would move on to Regions One, Eight and Four in the com-

ing weeks. In keeping with that promise, the cash grant distribution has actually begun in the first of these regions.

In the case of Region Eight, Mahdia’s Deputy Mayor Akita John explained to this publication that cash grant distribution is ongoing in the region, with scores of people lining up to collect the oneoff cash grant.

According to John, the distribution exercise involved all adults, including pensioners, an exercise that she described as hectic. Meanwhile, a statement from the Amerindian Affairs Ministry explained that the cash grant distribution in the region is being spearheaded by Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai.

In addition to Campbelltown, the Ministry revealed that distribution was also being done in Mahdia and Princeville with support from the Ministry

communities, before registration was thrown open to all eligible members of the public, 18 years and older. Only recently, the Government had been granted approval for more than $84 billion in supplementary funds for projects that included the highly-anticipated $100,000 one-off cash grant initiative. Of this amount, $30.5 billion is for the commencement of the $100,000 cash grant initiative.

Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai (centre) addressing

Region 8 residents

Distribution of the cash grant

Editor: Tusika Martin

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

Marketing: 231-8064Accounts: 225-6707

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

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

Unlocking trade restrictions with regional ferry service

As Guyana continues to seek avenues for economic growth and regional integration, the forthcoming operationalisation of the regional ferry service connecting Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago marks a significant milestone. The recent announcement that over 50 items, including ground provisions and fresh fruits, have been cleared for trade underscores the immense potential of this initiative to transform the economic landscape for Guyanese manufacturers and producers.

Historically, trade barriers within the Caribbean have posed significant challenges for Guyanese exporters.

One of the key aspects of this development is the removal of trade restrictions on 54 priority items. These products, which include staples such as ground provisions and fresh fruits, represent the backbone of Guyana’s agricultural sector. The lifting of these restrictions is a strategic move that will not only provide a platform for Guyanese producers to access larger markets but also enhance the region’s food security by promoting intra-regional trade.

In addition to agricultural goods, the initiative addresses broader systemic barriers to trade within Caricom. For decades, legal and procedural constraints, such as Trinidad and Tobago’s antiquated law prohibiting the importation of honey, have served as roadblocks to free trade. These barriers have often led to frustration among Guyanese exporters, who find themselves unable to penetrate regional markets despite the proximity and shared economic interests of Caricom member states. By categorising problematic items into two priority groups – A and B –and starting with those that can be more easily addressed, this initiative demonstrates a pragmatic approach to overcoming entrenched challenges.

Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the ferry service holds promise for nurturing deeper regional integration. The free movement of goods facilitated by this service aligns with Caricom’s broader objectives of creating a single economic space. By enhancing connectivity among member states, the ferry service will not only streamline trade, but also create opportunities for cultural exchange and cooperation, ultimately strengthening the bonds that unite the Caribbean community.

However, diversification remains critical to ensuring sustainable growth. By providing a reliable and cost-effective means of exporting goods to key regional markets, the ferry service will enable Guyanese businesses to expand their operations and tap into new revenue streams. This, in turn, will contribute to job creation, rural development, and the overall strengthening of the country’s economic resilience.

The benefits of this initiative extend beyond producers to consumers across the Region. With the removal of trade barriers, Caribbean consumers can expect greater access to a wider variety of fresh, high-quality Guyanese products at competitive prices. This will not only enhance the quality of life for consumers, but also foster a sense of shared prosperity within the region.

However, the success of the ferry service will depend on effective implementation and sustained cooperation among the participating countries. It is imperative that the Memorandum of Understanding governing the removal of trade restrictions is adhered to and that any emerging issues are addressed promptly. Additionally, addressing the ‘Priority B’ items, which include more complex trade challenges, will require continued dialogue and negotiation to ensure that the benefits of this initiative are fully realised.

Infrastructure development will also play a critical role in the success of the ferry service. Investments in port facilities, storage capabilities, and transportation networks will be essential to ensuring the efficient movement of goods. Similarly, regulatory frameworks must be harmonised to facilitate seamless trade while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.

As Guyanese businesses prepare to take advantage of this new opportunity, the role of institutions such as the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) will be crucial. By advocating for the interests of local manufacturers and producers, the GCCI can help ensure that the benefits of the ferry service are maximised. Its call for regional trade barriers to be addressed frontally underscores the need for a collaborative approach to resolving longstanding issues.

The regional ferry service represents a crucial step towards unlocking the full potential of Guyana’s export sector. By removing barriers to trade, it offers a pathway to greater economic diversification, enhanced regional integration, and shared prosperity for Guyana and its Caribbean neighbours. As this initiative moves forward, it will be essential for all stakeholders to work together to ensure its success, recognising that the benefits extend far beyond individual countries to the Region as a whole.

Things could go very wrong in Syria – they could also go very right. Let’s gift its people optimism

B y N esri N e M alik

Last week, time collapsed. Bashar al-Assad’s fall recalled scenes across the region from the start of the Arab spring almost 14 years ago. Suddenly history felt vivid, its memories sharpened. In fact it no longer felt like history. Scenes that it seemed we would never see again – of crowds thronging the squares; the obscene riches of despots exposed, their fortresses stormed, their iconography desecrated –unlocked a familiar, almost sickening sense of possibility. Of giddiness, of horror at what fleeing dictators had left in their wake, and of hope. Syria’s long revolution – the death, torture, imprisonment and exile that Assad’s crushing of it unleashed – makes its successful end bittersweet. The price was so high, which makes its spoils even more dear.

The moment is also different in another way. In those 14 years, other revolutions across the region either unravelled or resulted in the retrenchment of dictatorial regimes under new management. And

so that sense of untrammelled optimism that followed the fall of that first crop of dictators is tempered by some wariness of what comes next. But it can and should be a productive wariness rather than a reason for despair. Because what Syria benefits from now is an understanding of the fragility of this period. To those of us who experienced it before in other countries, it felt like a time when the momentum of revolution was unstoppable and cleansing. It had a kinetic energy that swept away the old systems to be replaced by new administrations, armed with good intentions and popular support, that would simply figure it out.

But in places such as Egypt and Sudan, ancient regimes lurked too deeply to simply be uprooted by removing their figureheads. In others such as Yemen, power vacuums and armed groups made their own bids for power and then drew in proxies that fuelled civil war. One could choose to look back over this record and conclude that it was always inevitable – or that they arm a new Syria with knowl-

edge of what were then unknown risks and curveballs.

The latter may sound like a naive reading, I realise. The world in general, and the Arab world in particular, have changed so much in the past decade. The region has become a proxy playground. The UAE is heavily involved in Sudan’s war – as it was, along with Saudi Arabia, in Yemen’s. And in that war, Iran backed its own partners in the Houthis. The Syrian revolution became a theatre for the ambitions of different parties, with Russia moving in to support the regime and launch itself as a regional power as the US focused on fighting Islamic State, with Iran backing Assad and Turkey maintaining a presence to prevent the emergence of a viable Kurdish autonomy movement. It’s a lot to unravel. And that’s without the vexing presence of an Israel exploiting this tenuous moment to steal even more land in Syria. Hours after Assad had fled, three foreign armies were striking targets in the country. On day one, any new government in Damascus inherits the challenges not

only of administering a fractured country ravaged for years but also of managing the competing interests of external cynics and rogues, and the arsenal of fighters and weapons they have established.

But there is the logic of abstract foreign policy analysis, and then there are the concrete facts of one of the world’s most brutal regimes falling, the release of a staggering number of prisoners, popular celebration and reunion, and potentially the return of millions of refugees who for years have been discriminated against in exile or perished in perilous crossings. There is the concern that Assad’s fall might trigger imperialist US agendas in the country, and there is the fact that the desire to topple a tyrant is an indigenous and not external one. There is the worry that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and its leader, Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, have extremist and sectarian roots and inclinations, and there is the reality that the methods of their politics are far more complicated than the straight terrorist narrative.

The Salvation Army (Guyana Division) on Monday hosted its Christmas Hamper Distribution at Alexander Street, Georgetown. The event also saw the participation of Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh; Chargé d'Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Guyana, Rui Huang, as well as National Security Advisor, Captain Gerry Gouveia, and Ramesh Dookhoo, both of whom are former chairmen of the Guyana Private Sector Commission. Salvation Army Advisory Board Chairman Edward Boyer was also at the distribution (Dr Ashni Singh photos)

First Lady’s re-energised office and tangible benefits

Dear Editor,

In recent days, the First Lady's Ball has sparked a flurry of opinions, many of which seem to miss the broader picture of the work being done by the Office of the First Lady. From a brand and development perspective, the First Lady, Arya Ali, has re-energised her office in meaningful ways, bringing tangible benefits to the people of Guyana. Her initiatives have been impactful, unbiased, and geared toward improving the lives of countless Guyanese.

While some may criticise events like the First Lady's Ball as elitist or exclusive, we must recognise them for what they are—effective

fundraising mechanisms. Globally, similar events such as the Met Gala bring together individuals of influence and affluence to raise significant sums for charitable causes. These gatherings are not about flaunting wealth but about using it to fuel impactful initiatives. The funds raised go directly toward programmes and projects that uplift those in need.

The First Lady has championed numerous initiatives, including the Menstrual Hygiene Project, which distributes free sanitary products to school aged girls, and the Inclusivity Programme, which funds playgrounds designed for differently-abled children, all of which re-

quire significant financial backing. These programmes would not have been possible without innovative and proactive fundraising strategies. Let us not forget that fundraising events like the First Lady's Ball not only generate resources but also create awareness and inspire others to contribute. People need to understand that these mechanisms work because they appeal to human nature—people are drawn to glamour, prestige, and the opportunity to give back in ways that feel celebratory and meaningful.

At the end of the day, how individuals choose to spend their money is their prerogative. If attendees at the Ball or similar events

enjoy champagne and fine dining while contributing to initiatives that positively impact the lives of everyday Guyanese, why should this be a point of contention? The reality is, if the First Lady had done nothing to raise funds, the criticism would likely be even harsher.

As a society, we must shift our focus from skepticism to understanding. Instead of criticising the methods, let’s give credit where it’s due and support those working tirelessly to create a brighter future for Guyana.

Sincerely,

Nicholas Yearwood Strategic Brand Planners

GAWU General Council welcomes GuySuCo’s wage/salary pact

Dear Editor,

The GAWU General Council met on December 13, 2024, at the Union's Headquarters in Georgetown. The forty-three-member council engaged in robust discussions on key issues affecting the lives of our union members and the broader workforces across the various entities where GAWU enjoys representational rights. This meeting also provided a platform to address local and international situations, considering a range of significant

issues.

One of the key discussions during the meeting centred around the recently established threeyear wage/salary agreement between GAWU and GuySuCo. The Council expressed a deep appreciation for this agreement, recognising its profound impact on providing stability and reassurance to union members in the sugar industry. Members acknowledged the unwavering dedication of the union’s leadership and negotiating team to secure this important

pact, especially considering the numerous challenges the sugar industry is currently facing. There was a shared sentiment of gratitude from the General Council, which wholeheartedly supported the agreement. The Union’s General Council expressed their sincere appreciation to President Mohamed Irfaan Ali and his Government for their essential role in facilitating this significant achievement.

The Union’s General Council is the pinnacle of decision-making between

its Congresses, embodying our collective vision and purpose. Elected during the Union’s 22nd Congress in August 2023, this dedicated Council meets quarterly to reflect on the meaningful work of the GAWU. Their commitment provides invaluable guidance and support to the Union’s Executive and leadership, driving us forward in solidarity and strength.

Sincerely, Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU)

Things could go very wrong in Syria...

The truth is that, among all the prognostications, nobody has a monopoly on the means of establishing peace and stability after the removal of deeply embedded authoritarian regimes. Not the west, which beat a retreat from vast calamitous interventions during the “war on terror”.

Not Gulf powers, whose main concern is strengthening their own economic and political positions, and to that end have extended the life of regional conflicts. And not the governments of other Arab countries for which the protests of the Arab spring are not the distant past but an ever-present threat that must constantly be forestalled through oppression and co-option.

Over the years, the Syrian people themselves seem to have disappeared, as the country became merely a domino that could fall the wrong way, disrupting regional and global settlements, and escalating security concerns. Yasser Munif, a Syrian scholar who specialises in the

country’s grassroots movements, cautioned against beholding Syria mainly through the place it occupies in all these discourses. “It’s important,” he said in a 2017 interview, “to push for the revolutionary grassroots narrative that has been completely isolated, silenced, marginalised, and, for many, unthinkable.”

The role of religion in opposition, he said, doesn’t necessarily mean such forces have “a totalitarian kind of ideology. We need to transcend the orientalist discourses in order to understand the depth and the geography of the opposition in Syria.”

History and the number of actors in the region bear down on Syria, producing back-seat drivers who feel as if they’ve been down this road before and know the terrain better – where the right and wrong turns are. But when things seem complex, a broadly reliable indicator of the right path is the people themselves, not those who feel they know better. The compass now should be with Syrians, whose joy

and relief should not be immediately suffocated over concerns about what comes next.

What dramatic change, in the Arab world or elsewhere, ever came with a neat blueprint? Syrians’ future should not be held hostage to previous disappointments, their unique extended revolution not flattened into a reading of what it augurs. The past

FROM PAGE 4

few days have already demonstrated what intense bondage and anguish they have been released from. If anything, it is now they who have the potential to show the way for the rest who have gone astray. We owe them our trust, our support, and, yes, some naivety. (The Guardian)

(Nesrine Malik is a Guardian columnist)

Apology should be issued to First Lady Arya Ali and IndoGuyanese community

Dear Editor, I was horrified to open the December 16 edition of one of the dailies to find a cartoon depicting the First Lady of Guyana standing in a champagne glass next to a bottle of champagne labelled ‘oil money,’ and next to her a tilted over and spilling rum bottle labelled ‘rum shop’. It was an obvious reference to Mrs Arya Ali’s recently held Charity Fundraising Ball.

Mrs Ali, under her office as First Lady of the State of Guyana, held a year end charity event without any political branding, and moreover without any state funding. The event was held at a location that is regularly the venue of choice for state, private sector, family, and international community events, none of which invite comment or condemnation from Stabroek News.

Yet, somehow, that charity event is singled out by Stabroek News’ cartoonist, and is sanctioned by its editor, for a caricature that is unapologetically racist and classist in its depiction. In the editorial view of the Stabroek News, the

People’s Progressive Party, as embodied by the First Lady, has left behind the rumshop and is now contained within a champagne glass lifestyle as supported by ‘oil money’. As if the racist and classist implications of the imagery itself were not clear, the intention is made clear with the caption, “It’s about time the PPP learned about class and style…”.

This simplistic, stereotypical trope of the rumshop as symbolic of the poor, drunken, classless PPP-supporting IndoGuyanese, foreign to the finer things in life, is not only indecent in itself, but especially abhorrent when applied to a First Lady whose initiatives have been executed without a whiff of ethnic or political bias.

Harris and the publication ought to issue an apology to First Lady Arya Ali and the Indo-Guyanese community for this distasteful and racially insensitive excuse for sociopolitical commentary.

Respectfully, Ravin Singh

Metric Units of Mass

The basic metric unit of mass is the gram (g). There are also milligrams (mg); centigrams (cg) and kilograms (kg). Since you know about metric prefixes, you could probably make the following list yourself! 1cg = 10mg 1g = 100cg 1kg = 1000g

1) 200g = ______kg

2) 30kgl = ____ ______

How many grams are in an object that has a mass of 4.5kg?

Step 1: Think: 1000g = 1kg

Step 2: Multiply 1000 by 4.5 = 4500g.

Exercises:

Calculate

Starburst Tree

Topper

With just a few materials, you can create a midcentury tree topper with vintage flair. Use a Styrofoam ball for the centerpiece and toothpicks or skewers dipped in craft glue for the parts that stick out. Once you’ve added all the toothpicks, spray the surface of the starburst with spray adhesive and sprinkle the starburst with glitter. After it dries, stick a piece of twisted craft wire into the center of the Styrofoam and use the twisted end to wrap around the top branch of your tree. (goodhousekeeping.com)

By E. E. Cummings

little tree little silent Christmas tree you are so little you are more like a flower

who found you in the green forest and were you very sorry to come away? see i will comfort you because you smell so sweetly

i will kiss your cool bark and hug you safe and tight just as your mother would, only don’t be afraid look the spangles that sleep all the year in a dark box dreaming of being taken out and allowed to shine, the balls the chains red and gold the fluffy threads, put up your little arms and i’ll give them all to you to hold every finger shall have its ring and there won’t be a single place dark or unhappy

then when you’re quite dressed you’ll stand in the window for everyone to see and how they’ll stare! oh but you’ll be very proud

and my little sister and i will take hands and looking up at our beautiful tree we’ll dance and sing “Noel Noel”

WORD SEARCH:

Works on transmission line for 2nd power ship 80% complete – GPL CEO

…says preparatory works for power ship progressing well

The construction of infrastructure necessary for the second power ship brought in to support the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) during the Christmas season, is proceeding apace, with the construction works for the 3.9-kilometre transmission line 80 per cent complete.

This was explained by GPL’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kesh Nandlall, when contacted by this publication. It had previously been reported that a double-circuit 69 kilovolt (kV) transmission line, spanning approximately 3.9 kilometres, was under construction from Ruimveldt.

This is where the second power ship is docked. The line will be connected to GPL’s New Georgetown Substation, in order to facilitate the transmission of power. According to Nandlall, this process is 80 per cent completed.

The ongoing preparatory works include the construction of the transmission line by a private contractor, with the aim of delivering electricity by Christmas. Nandlall related to this publication that this was progressing well.

On December 8, con-

sumers in sections of Greater Georgetown experienced an 8-hour interruption in electricity supply as GPL conducted preparatory works for the arrival of a second power ship. The second power ship will add to the 36-megawatt (MW) provided by an existing

floating power plant in the Berbice River.

This will significantly increase the country’s power generation capacity. GPL’s peak electricity demand has surged to 187MW, up from nearly 100MW in recent years, driven by new housing de-

velopments, industrial facilities, and commercial investments.

The current peak demand is 187 MW, while the available capacity is 194 MW. This second power ship will add to the 36 MW of electricity already being produced by the first floating power plant that is in the Berbice River.

Nandlall had previously told this publication that two generators with an aggregate capacity of 13 MW that were unavailable due to major overall will be back online by December 10 and 21. This he said will boost the generation capacity in the Demerara Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS) to 207 MW.

The arrival of this vessel comes after a contract signing last month between the Guyana power and Light Inc with the Joint Venture of Turkishbased Karpowership Global DMCC and Qatar-based UCC Energy International LLC JV, to charter a second power ship with a total installed capacity of 75 MW for two years.

In the first phase, the power ship will dispatch 60 MW to the grid in approximately six weeks followed by an additional 15 MW,

grant distribution begins...

Guyanese citizen 18 years and older will receive the payout. Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has indicated that initial distribution process of the $100,000 one-off cash grant is expected to see about 300,000 Guyanese receiving their cash grants before the end of the year, while the remainder of persons should receive theirs next year.

Technical teams with pre-programmed tablets are being dispatched to gather persons’ data. The second stage is the verification of the registrants, followed by the cutting of cheques. A distribution schedule is then to be published, and these cheques are disbursed in the same locations where registra-

tion occurred.

To register, individuals must present their valid National Identification Cards (ID) or valid passports. Photocopies will not be accepted. These official documents are the only acceptable forms of identification used to confirm that the applicant is a Guyanese citizen aged 18 or older, making them eligible to receive the cash grant. During registration, a photo of the applicant will be taken to verify their physical presence and ensure that the person who collects the cash grant is the same individual who registered.

Additionally, a photo of the applicant’s ID or passport is taken to verify that the information on the doc-

once works are completed on an additional transmission line. The contract requires GPL to pay the Joint Venture 8.52 US cents per Kilowatt-hour (kWh) as a monthly charter fee for the new power ship.

FROM PAGE 3

ument matches the person registering. These measures seek to prevent any attempts to defraud the system or manipulate the process. (G3)

It also requires a monthly operation and maintenance fee of 0.98 US cents per kWh, based on electricity generated. Under the contract, GPL is also responsible for providing Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) for the operation of the ship’s generators.

The addition of the second power ship will boost GPL’s generation capacity

to 207 MW, ensuring reliable electricity during the holiday season and beyond. The first power ship had been deployed to Guyana in May of this year, and is currently stationed at Everton in the Berbice River. The floating power plant has been supplying 36 MW of electricity to the DBIS. As part of that agreement, GPL had paid a US$1 million mobilisation fee, a fee of 6.62 US cents per kWh as a monthly charter fee for the vessel, and a monthly operation and maintenance fee of 0.98 US cents per kWh based on electricity generated. (G3)

Mahdia’s Deputy Mayor Akita John

3 charged for multi million-dollar larceny at Dr Balwant Singh’s Hospital

Three individuals, including two former employees, appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Monday, facing multiple charges of Larceny by Clerk or Servant. The charges relate to the alleged theft of millions from Dr Balwant Singh’s Hospital Inc.

Charged are Shivannie Guyadeen; Kimberly Prasad and Randy Persaud. The trio appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore.

Charged: Shivannie Guyadeen

Guyadeen, 23, of Belle West, Canal #2 Polder, West Bank Demerara (WBD), was charged with larceny of $14,307,000 allegedly committed between February 19 and December 19, 2024. Guyadeen pleaded not guilty and was placed on $500,000 bail. Meanwhile, Prasad, a 21-year-old resident of Foulis Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was charged with the larceny of $1,070,000, allegedly committed between February 12 and December 21, 2024. Prasad pleaded not guilty and was

Charged: Randy Persaud

granted $250,000 bail. In addition, Persaud, 23, of La Grange, WBD, was charged with the larceny of $180,000 on May 19, 2024. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail of $75,000.

Persaud and Guyadeen were also jointly charged with stealing $234,000 on March 28, 2024. For this

Charged: Kimberly Prasad

joint charge they were both placed on $75,000 bail. All of the cases were adjourned for January 27, 2025. Reports are that the allegations stem from internal discrepancies reported at Dr Balwant Singh’s Hospital Inc, leading to an investigation that resulted in the charges against the trio.

Changing…

…of symbols

Ruling an empire was as much a matter of deploying symbols as that of force. In ruling us as part of their Empire – “on which the sun never sets” – the Brits held up their Monarch as the symbol of the benevolent father or mother figure that cared for us and our fortunes. So it was, when they decided to abolish slavery because that would open up shipping their manufactured goods to a wider market and rake in more profits – after facing rebellions that sapped their energies – folks in our dear Mudland bought plantations with their first earnings they’d scrimped and scraped together. They named the first purchase “Victoria” – after the rotund Queen who sat on the British throne!! They were convinced it was the Queen who’d given them their freedom in her beneficence!! In fact, before and after slavery, leaders would routinely dispatch letters to the Queen or King in England asking them to intercede on their behalf. Their working premise being the Monarch “didn’t know what her agents were doing down in the colonies” –and she’d fix matters once she knew!! The two institutions that dominated the freed folks – the church and the school – both exalted the Monarch. The latter was head of the Church of England and the schools had their wards open their day by having them lustily belting out “God save the Queen/King”!!

The Monarch’s birthday was celebrated in the colonies and typically, we natives would be given the day off as a holiday and – in the 20th century at least – gifts like cups and mugs with the Monarch’s pic were handed out. That’s where the term “mug shot” came from?!! Your Eyewitness remembers his parents treasuring the cups they’d been given in school at Elizabeth’s coronation in 1953. As the colonies were gradually granted independence, those that didn’t explicitly become “Republics” kept the Monarch as their “head of state”. Even those that didn’t became members of the “Commonwealth” where the role was retained.

Many of the colonies in the Caribbean – which were the first to be colonised – were the last to dump the Queen as their head of state. Barbados – colonised in 1655 – in fact boasted about being “Little England” and only became a republic last year. Jamaica colonised the same year has only NOW introduced legislation to make the change!! St Kitts the FIRST British colony from 1624 still hasn’t made the move!! They have the company of the Bahamas, Belize, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

That’s right…Ralph Gonzalves – socialist bosom buddy of Mad Maduro who puts them ahead of us– still retains King Charles as his monarch!!

Parting is such sweet sorrow??

…Venezuelan gamesmanship

Your Eyewitness is a realist who emphasises “there are no permanent enemies or permanent friends – just permanent interests”! We see this playing out with the Yanks, us and Venezuela. The Yanks’ interest at this time is oil – which spins the wheels of industry. No matter what they say about “renewables”, just like the Yanks bet everything after WWII on controlling Middle Eastern oil , they’ll do the same in our hemisphere to control the Venezuelan 300 billion barrels sloshing around under their soil!!

While our 11-18 billion barrels is a bird in the hand, the Yanks crave the Venezuelan much bigger bird in the bush. So, we watch their “hold me, loose me” moves. Lame-duck Biden’s latest move to “de-recognise” Mad Maduro in favour of Opposition Leader Gonzalez is a gambit that’s already slowed down oil production that was inching towards 1 million bpd.

Will Trump ratchet up oil sanctions? Your Eyewitness thinks not. In fact he may match deporting Venezuelans with taking in more oil!!

…Judiciary

By now – we should appreciate the pivotal role the Judiciary plays in smoothing out our fractious politics. Your Eyewitness hopes that said politics won’t overwhelm good sense in the present impasse in appointing the four new Court of Appeal Judges.

Toshao stabbed 19 times seen entering hotel room with Amerindian man

…Police hunting mystery man caught on camera

AVillage, Middle Mazaruni, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) was brutally murdered between the hours of 00:50 and 07:30 after arriving in Georgetown for an executive National Toshaos Council meeting.

Dead is 37-year-old Ridley Joseph.

Investigations revealed that at about 18:23h on Sunday, Joseph checked himself in at the Signature Inn Hotel in Queenstown, Georgetown, for one night and was given room number 135, which is situated on the western side of the middle flat of the three-story building.

Joseph, who checked into a hotel earlier, was seen leaving with an unidentified male at around 00:50 hours. The two returned shortly after, entering the hotel through the southern door, where Joseph bought a bottle of water. The other man had a Rude Boy bottle. The pair then headed to room 135.

According to reports from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), at 02:19h, the man left the room and walked west on Laluni Street, then south on Albert Street.

Bloodstains were found on the walkway leading to the room, and a hole in the door suggested the use of a sharp object. Through the hole, Joseph’s body was discovered lying in a pool of blood, with partial footwear impressions visible on the floor. Hotel staff made the gruesome discovery and immediately alerted the police.

Joseph, who was elected to the council earlier this year, was found in a pool of blood in his hotel room.

Preliminary investigations revealed he was stabbed 19 times, with wounds to his face, neck, and chest.

Additionally, a piece of luggage reportedly in his possession is missing, and authorities suspect it was stolen during the attack.

Detectives have since reviewed security footage and have tracked down a car driver, who transported the suspected killer and the Toshao.

Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Derrick John, visited the crime scene, expressing shock and dismay at the loss of the young leader.

“It's very sad that that was the news that greeted me this morning. It was very shocking and disturbing to

us. It's a very saddened situation,” the Chairman of the NTC said.

Valedictorian

Joseph, described as a dedicated leader, was preparing to graduate as valedictorian of the Health Ministry’s Nursing Assistant programme.

His murder has sparked calls for justice from Indigenous leaders and the wider public.

“Well, we were all elected in last July and we met once as an executive and so far it's, you know, we realised that Tushar was a very dedicated leader, you know, he had a lot and as a good leader, a lot of good potentials. We saw it with him, even though that we didn't have much association with him because as I said, it was only once we met as an executive and because of the geographical spread out, you know, it's very hard for us to contact, connect on a daily basis. But I think that Tushar was a very good family person. He was soft-spoken, you know, and you could have seen his desire there to lead his community and also contribute at a national scale as it relates to indigenous peoples' rights and their devel-

opment,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony and the entire health fraternity have expressed sympathy to the family, friends, and colleagues of Toshao Joseph.

Described as a stalwart in healthcare and an exemplary student who demonstrated good leadership qualities, dedication and commitment during his training, the now

These include Registered Nursing Assistant (RNA) deemed the most compassionate, RNA who demonstrated a high level of integrity, most outstanding RNA in Clinical nursing and RNA who performed excellently in academics.

The investigations are ongoing. (G1)

Miner, 3 others nabbed with illegal gun, ammo

Police acting on information on Sunday went to Caria Caria, Essequibo River, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) at about 14:20h where they conducted a search on the house of a 59-year-old farmer.

Caria Caria is about an hour from Parika, Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) via speedboat. At the house police found a 24-year-old miner

of Half Mile, Linden sleeping in a hammock under the house with a black shoulder bag. A search was conducted on the bag uncovered a 9MM pistol along with 10 matching rounds of ammunition and two radio sets.

When questioned, the man admitted he was not a licensed firearm holder. While being escorted to the police boat, the man requested that officers wait for his associates. Shortly after,

police apprehended three men – ages 27, 25 and 33 all of Linden - in the vicinity. They were riding on motorcycles without a number plate, when they were arrested. When questioned about their presence in the area, the men claimed they were prospecting land. All four individuals were arrested and taken to the Parika Police Station. The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.

The gun and ammunition along with other items found by Police

Toshao of Tasserene

deceased Toshao would have been the recipient of several awards.

Dead: 37-year-old Ridley Joseph

Ridley Joseph’s body being removed from scene

M&CC allocates $8M to boost holiday garbage cleanup in 4 constituencies

The Georgetown City Council is allocating an additional $8 million for garbage collection in four high-demand constituencies, which will now receive twice-weekly pickups.

The programme, which began on November 27, will run for eight weeks and will incur an additional $8 million in costs. This is in addition above the $21 million normally spent each month on waste collection.

The four constituencies identified for the increased service are Constituency 8 (which includes Wortmanville, week-en-Rust, and Stabroek); Constituency 10 (Albouystown and Charlestown); Constituency 11 (East and West La Penitence); and Constituency 13 (East and West Ruimveldt).

Director of Solid Waste Management, Walter Narine, during a recent press conference held by the Georgetown City Council said that an analysis of waste patterns by the council revealed that these areas accumulate more garbage, particularly during the Christmas season.

cially during the Christmas period, for a number of reasons.”

In addition to regular waste collection, bulky items and carpet waste will also be targeted during this period. Narine noted that these types of waste become particularly problematic around the holidays.

“From the 27th of November to the 25th of January, the contractors will be responsible not only for regular household waste but also for collecting carpet and bulky waste. If bulky items aren’t collected on the scheduled day, they will be removed on the Friday of the same week,” he said.

last year.

“As you know, the volume of waste during the holiday season can be overwhelming. Last year, we had to mobilise additional resources, and even the Mayor had

to step in on Christmas and Boxing Day to assist with the collection. We’ve learned from that experience and are committed to improving this year,” Narine concluded. (G2)

Businesswoman allegedly raped at knifepoint

“Based on data we’ve gathered over the years, we’ve recognised that these four constituencies generally generate more waste, espe-

He also stressed on the fact that the initiative that they would have put in place is data-driven and takes into account population density.

Narine acknowledged that last year’s holiday season presented significant challenges due to the lack of a clear strategy for handling increased waste.

“Last year, we faced many difficulties because we didn’t incorporate bulky waste collection into our plans. It was a tough experience,” he said. “Council resources are limited, but we’ve made the necessary adjustments this year to ensure smoother operations and better service.”

This initiative, he added, is also seen as a way of giving back to the community and they are steadfastly committed to improving from their short comings

Police are investigating the alleged rape of a 56-year-old businesswoman, which occurred Sunday night.

According to reports, the Imbaimadai Police Station in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) received a call around 22:50h regarding the incident, which allegedly occurred at approximately 20:30h at the victim's shop.

Reports are that the vic-

tim told investigators that she was lying in a hammock inside her shop when an identifiable man approached her holding what appeared to be a knife. The assailant allegedly threatened her life, warning her to remain silent. He then reportedly forcibly had sexual intercourse with her. After committing the act, the suspect fled into nearby bushes. The police have launched an investigation.

Head of Solid Waste Management, Walter Narine

2 Essequibo Coast men charged with larceny

Two men appeared in court on Monday, facing separate charges related to larceny offenses in Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam)

Abdu Hakeem Layne, 25, of Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast, was charged with simple larceny, contrary to Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01. The charge stemed from an incident that occurred on December 14 at Suddie, Essequibo Coast, where Layne allegedly stole

from a nurse at the Suddie Public Hospital. Layne appeared before Magistrate Tamieka Clarke at the Charity Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to him. However, due to his mental condition, Layne was unable to enter a plea, and the case was adjourned to January 9, 2025, for a medical evaluation report. He was remanded to prison. In a separate case, Ryan Dey, 18, a labourer of Charity Squatting Area, Essequibo Coast, was charged with larceny

from the person, contrary to Section 182 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01. Dey allegedly stole from a 29, a self-employed woman of Nig, Berbice, on December 13 at Charity, Essequibo Coast. Dey appeared before the same court and, after the charge was read, was not required to enter a plea. He opted to plead guilty after the prosecutor applied the AttorneyGeneral’s Application (AJA). As a result, Dey was sentenced to six months of imprisonment.

Father of 2 found dead in yard

A56-year-old father of two from Alberttown, Georgetown, was found dead in his yard on Monday afternoon. The deceased has been identified as Kenny Reece. His cousin, Mikada Oudkerk, told the media that Reece was discovered with blood oozing from his mouth. According to Oudkerk, she was informed of the situation by an overseas aunt who alerted her to the incident.

“Actually, I was home and I got a call from my aunt overseas, and she was telling me that they heard he was lying in front of the yard with blood oozing from his mouth. But everybody is saying that he was apparently poisoned. When

you look up straight, there is a lot of blood, and when you look at the bathroom area, it’s very sad.”

Oudkerk, while reminiscing about the deceased, stated that he worked at a snack stand in Alberttown, Georgetown and was quite a joyful person to be around.

“He used to work at the famous eggball man on sixth street, he’s been holding down the job for the past 3 or 4 years since the business started. He was a very loving, jovial person. If you were sad, he made you happy. One of my oldest cousins, there are some

food items there that they take for sampling,” the cousin said. The woman said she was not aware of her cousin having any issues or misunderstandings with anyone.

“We actually grew up here, so everyone knew him here. If there was a brawl or fight, somebody would reach out to a family member and let us know. So, if someone and him had a problem, I wouldn’t be able to say.”

A postmortem examination is scheduled to be conducted on Wednesday. Investigations are continuing. (G2)

Forensics team at the scene

Kenny Reece

Jailed: Ryan Dey

Charged: Abdu Hakeem Layne

UN official lauds Human Rights & Anti-Corruption Expo

…calls for annual event to strengthen Guyana’s human rights efforts

The recently held Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Expo was hailed by United Nations (UN) Country Office Representative as an example of the work needed to progress Guyana’s human rights compliance and bring more attention to this important topic.

During day two of panel discussions of the expo, Head of the UN Resident Coordinator's Office, William Evans lauded the hosting of the expo. With

elections on the horizon, Evans expressed the view that the expo should be a recurrent annual event.

Evans explained that a paradox exists where countries around the world have collectively committed to upholding fundamental human rights, but much work remains to be done. The UN representative noted that expos such as the one organised by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance helps solve that paradox.

“Even if I can’t explain the paradox, as a UN country team we do have a very clear sense about it. Of how we respond to it. And fundamentally, this comes back to doing the work. You’re doing the work, actually, by turning up and participating in the fair. But the work also includes doing the committee work. Looking at all the previous recommendations made about human rights,” Evans said.

“It involves working on new legislation. It involves collecting and gathering information from multiple UN organisations and from different Ministries, departments and agencies in Government, to determine the extent to which they are taking steps to implement recommendations from years gone by.”

According to Evans, Guyana is well on its way to achieving these recommendations as long as it continues to do the work or the “hard yards”. He recommended the human rights index be scrutinised to see where areas of potential improvement lie.

“Its about the internal audits. Its about the outreach with different com-

munities. Constant raising of awareness about individual rights. And constant conversations with ourselves, as UN organisations, and also Government institutions. And say look, we’re falling short. There’s still more we can do here.”

“And I’m very grateful to have been invited on this panel today. This is exactly the work. What’s happening downstairs. This is the work that takes us closer to solving that paradox,” Evans further said in his presentation.

The UN official also recalled the International Business Conference held earlier this year and the platform it provided for attention to be brought to the subject of human rights by the UN.

“Earlier this year… the International Business Conference in Guyana was organised by the private sector from both Guyana and Suriname. And we brought across to Guyana one of our colleagues from the UN Global Compact. And our colleague ex-

plained to a number of private sector organisations the steps that they can take to advance and protect human rights in Guyana.”

“And specifically, they spoke about something called the Women's Empowerment Principle. And provided advise to a number of companies about measures they can take in their businesses, at relatively low cost, to ensure for example that women benefit from things like equal pay for equal work,” he further said. (G3)

Head of the UN Resident Coordinator's Office, William Evans

Some of the school children who were able to gain valuable insight on human rights issues during the expo

Over 1100 Region 3 youths graduated from BIT since 2020

The Board of Industrial Training (BIT) has made strides in empowering youths across Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), with 1,133 individuals trained and equipped with skills from 2020 to date.

Through its programmes, BIT continues to transform lives by preparing individuals for the demands of the workforce and encouraging them to embrace lifelong learning.

Participants earned certifications in fields such as Welding and Fabrication, Electrical Installation, AC Refrigeration Servicing and Repairs, Joinery, General Building Construction, Tractor Driving, Auto Electrical, and Commercial Food Preparation.

During a recent address at the Leonora Technical Institute, which saw some 40 individuals graduating with certificates in the fields of electrical installation and heavy-duty equip-

ment operation, BIT’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Richard Maughn emphasised the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in an ever-evolving job market.

The message underscored the value of handson experience and practical skills, which not only lead to self-sufficiency but also align with global trends demanding individuals who can work both with their hands and their minds.

“There is nothing beating experience. So, take opportunities for employment and use them wisely. Also, I want to say to you that yes you have acquired skills, you have acquired knowledge, you have done the right thing and demonstrate that demonstrated that you are willing to grow by the simple fact that you have registered and you have completed your course of study, notwithstanding the challenges that you may have faced”

“What you can do for

yourself with your hands, you’re able to feed yourself and your family for life with the skills you would have acquired. So, I would say to you, acquire new skills. More and more the world is demanding people with the ability to do things with their hands but along with that you have to develop your ability to reason. Cognitive reasoning is becoming more and more important,” the CEO said.

To further enhance access to education and training, the Government’s Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) Scholarship initiative is offering another round of scholarships for 2024–2025.

BIT graduates are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to expand their qualifications and remain competitive in the job market.

“Right now, the Government of Guyana under the GOAL Scholarship have made further educational opportunities available to you. It is open again for 2024, 2025. Get yourself registered. Do not tell yourself that you have arrived. Get registered and be able to grow yourself a little bit more… So, with those words in mind, I encourage you to press onward, make your trainers proud, make the Board of Industrial Training proud. We will be calling upon you, we will be checking with you to see what you are doing, to see how the training you have

done has impacted your life and how it is impacting the lives of people within your circle and your community at large,” he added.

Meanwhile, in interviews with the media, a few of the graduates detailed their experiences and aspirations for the future, including Natasha Niblett who shared “I was doing the course in heavy duty equipment operator.

The training experience was a little bit new for me because it’s something that a girl is not accustomed to but it was overall excellent and I am so happy that I was given the opportunity to learn. I had males that encouraged us most of the time and they push us to be beyond what the community set for us”.

Another graduate, Raymond Williams said he

plans to start a business utilising his new skill.

“Now that I am certified, I’ll be able to be gainfully employed through the course. As you know operating heavy-duty machinery, the salary is above average minimum wage so I’ll be able to earn and provide for my family better… My intention is to own and operate my own machine,” he said. (G1)

BIT’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Richard Maughn

Graduates from Leonora Technical Institute

Guyana calls for immediate action to address humanitarian crisis in Ukraine

Guyana has expressed deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, urging for immediate international action to safeguard civilians and ensure compliance with international humanitarian law. During a briefing on the Maintenance of Peace and Security of Ukraine, Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations (UN), Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, condemned the continued suffering of civilians caught in the conflict, reiterating the grave impact on the most vulnerable populations.

Rodrigues-Birkett emphasised the alarming statistics that underscore the heavy toll the war has taken on civilian lives. Despite repeated calls for adherence to international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, precaution, and proportionality, civilians continue to be subjected to indiscriminate attacks, and critical infrastructure is being destroyed. The ongoing destruction of energy infrastructure, in particular, has raised significant concerns, with the possibility of more power outages during Ukraine's harsh winter

months, further impacting access to essential services for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, low-income households, people with disabilities, and displaced persons.

"We call for immediate action to ensure full, unhindered humanitarian access, including in occupied areas, and urge the international community to exert pressure on all parties to comply with their obligations under international law," said Rodrigues-Birkett, emphasising the need for urgent

intervention to halt the devastating effects of the conflict.

Guyana also voiced its serious concern about the precarious situation surrounding the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP). Rodrigues-Birkett condemned recent attacks against the plant and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) staff and vehicles. She called for all parties to ensure the safety and security of IAEA personnel and safeguard the integrity of the plant to

prevent catastrophic consequences.

Rodrigues-Birkett emphasised the need for both sides to commit to a serious political and diplomatic process aimed at ending the war and bringing lasting peace to the region.

"Guyana stresses the urgency of resolving this

conflict through peaceful means. The longer it continues, the greater the risks of even more severe consequences for all involved," she said.

In closing, Guyana reiterated its unwavering support for the efforts of the United Nations SecretaryGeneral (UNSG) and oth-

er partners working toward peace. The country remains committed to doing its part in the international community's push for an end to the suffering of millions of people caught in the conflict.

"We must prioritise the welfare of civilians and the rule of law," concluded Rodrigues-Birkett.

VIKAB (Guyana) Limited hosts 2nd Christmas gift, hamper distribution event

VIKAB (Guyana)

Limited hosted its second Annual Christmas Charity Toy and Hamper Drive at the Corentyne Comprehensive High School (CCHS) in Port Mourant, Berbice.

This event was hosted by the Punwasee’s Family together with their staff and

dreds of children and elderly individuals, who were treated to gifts from Santa Claus, entertainment, food, and refreshments. The elderly attendees were also given food hampers. After the ceremony, the toy and food hamper drive continued, with the VIKAB team reaching other villages such as Bangladesh

and Tain, as well as the children's home. To close the event, and as a token of appreciation for their support, Vinesh, Reshma, and Karuna Punwasee presented the principal and staff of the school with two kits—a collection of cricket gear—to support the advancement of the sport.

friends earlier in December.

The founder of the firm, VIKAB, Hardutt Punwasee, who was also a student and teacher of the CCHS, before migrating, said that his return to the Caribbean offered him the opportunity to establish the company, VIKAB.

Being a product of the sugar estate, he noted that he has always felt a passion to give back to the community which he holds very close to his heart.

The event attracted hun-

Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett speaking at the briefing on the Maintenance of Peace and Security of Ukraine

The Punwasee Family and the VIKAB's Team

From left: Reshma Punwasee; Mrs Usain, Principal of CCHS; Karuna Punwasee and Vinesh Punwasee presenting cricket kits

Some of the children at the event

Boat given to Baracara to transport school children

Residents of Baracara have received a new boat to enhance the transportation of students to and from school in the area.

Senior Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh handed over the boat on Sunday on behalf of President Irfaan Ali.

riverine community.

During his visit to the community last year, President Ali had promised to fulfill the request of the parents of the

All of the 58 children who attend the Baracara Primary School have to use a boat to get there. The one school boat was inadequate and last year residents made a request to President Irfaan Ali for as-

Finance Dr

Caricom highlights commitment to working with new Japan Govt

The Caribbean Community (Caricom) welcomes the opportunity to engage with the new Government of Japan early in its tenure. This was highlighted by Chair of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) and the Foreign Minister of Dominica, Dr Vince Henderson

Dr Henderson was at the time speaking at a welcome reception at the Iikura Guest House ahead of the Eighth Japan-Caricom Ministerial Conference which was convened on December 14. Hosted by the new Foreign Affairs Minister for Japan, Mr Takeshi Iwaya, the reception was attended by the foreign Ministers and other high-level officials from 14 Caricom countries and distinguished guests from Japan and the Caricom countries.

Dr Henderson highlighted key milestones in Caricom-Japan relations, including a 2014 Heads of Government Summit, seven Ministerial Meetings, and 19 technical cooperation engagements. These efforts have fostered developments in various sectors such as

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME), trade fairs, agriculture, fisheries, Information Technology (IT), environmental conservation, disaster risk reduction, climate change, energy, culture, and tourism, the COFCOR Chair stated.

He also stressed the importance of continuing to support adaptive engagement frameworks, particularly the Japan-Caricom Friendship and Cooperation Fund, as a vital mechanism for addressing regional challenges.

Minister Iwaya highlighted the strong partnership between Japan and Caricom countries despite their geographical distance. He expressed optimism for productive discussions at the Eighth Japan-Caricom MinisterialLevel Conference and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to ongoing cooperation with Caricom in the international arena.

The Minister underscored the importance of people-to-people connections in fostering friendship and cooperation, noting that Japan hopes to expand these exchanges over the next decade.

Ahead of the CaricomJapan Ministerial Conference, Foreign Ministers paid a Courtesy Call on the new Prime Minister of Japan, Shigeru Ishiba. The Prime Minister affirmed Japan-Caricom partnership and the importance of their cooperation in the international arena.

Assistant SecretaryGeneral for Foreign and Community Relations, Elizabeth Solomon is leading the Caricom Secretariat’s delegation at the Conference. On December 13, she held bilateral talks with Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Takuma Miyaji. They emphasised the commitment of Caricom and Japan to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperate internationally.

The Eighth JapanCaricom Ministerial Meeting which was held on 14 December in Tokyo, Japan, culminated the JapanCaricom Friendship Year 2024. The year marks three decades of friendship between the Community and Japan, and 60 years of diplomatic relations between

"We are really living in the era of opportunities and an important part of that is ensuring that everybody has the opportunity to get a good quality basic education, and so HM, we want everybody in the Baracara Primary School catchment area to be able to come to school and to be able to get a good quality primary education so that they can move on to high school education. So, this boat which I have the privilege of delivering to you on behalf of President Ali... President Ali wants the people of the Canje River to have access of the boat so he said let me come at the first available opportunity I have to hand over the boat so that you can put it into use," Minister Singh said.

The Finance Minister said President Ali expressed delight knowing that the new boat being powered by a 40HP engine will be for children enabling them to be able to get to school on time.

According to Dr Singh, the objective is to ensure that all of the children in the catchment area attend school so that they can obtain a good quality primary education

and the boat has an important role to play in that endeavour.

"Of course, there are a number of other things that we are doing; training teachers. we are training all of the teachers in the public education system, the restoration of cash grants to children and we gave been increasing the cash grants since we have restored them, ensuring that all of the schools have their required books and we have been increasing and ramping up the school feeding programme because we want children to be able to attend school and be attentive so that the educational output can be improved," Minister Singh said.

Baracara is a small community located community located up the Canje River approximately 120 kilometres (75 miles) from the town of New Amsterdam.

Several other villages stretching both north and south are generally considered as Baracara since they have to access health facilities and other services from Baracara.

The community thrives on fishing and agriculture. (G4)

Caricom and Jamaica and

Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Caricom and State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan at a welcome reception on December 13, 2024

Head Teacher of Baracara Primary School, Caron Adams cutting the ribbon while being assisted by Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh to commission the new Baracara School Boat

Trinidad and Tobago respectively.

sistance so that the children could get to school on time.

On Sunday Senior Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for

Ashni Singh officially handed the boat over to head teacher of Baracara Primary School Carol Adam.

Murder of Ridley Joseph

To use the tragic end of Toshao’s life as a political weapon is unconscionable – Teixeira

…slams Opposition MP for exploiting tragedy

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister and Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Geographic Member of Parliament for Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), Gail Teixeira, has slammed the opposition’s Geographic Member of Parliament for the region, Dawn Hastings, for using the Toshao’s death as a political weapon.

Teixeria in a statement expressed sadness following the tragic death of Toshao Ridley Joseph, who was recently elected to lead the village of Tasserene, and who was murdered on Monday at a hotel in Georgetown.

In a statement, Teixeira praised Joseph’s straightforwardness and dedication to resolving issues in his community and the Middle Mazaruni sub-district.

However, Teixeira also condemned the actions of the opposition’s Geographic MP for Region Seven, Dawn Hastings, who, in a video aired hours after Joseph’s death, attempted to politicise the tragedy. Teixeira accused Hastings of opportunistically linking Joseph’s murder to the Mahdia Dorm fire, which

occurred in May 2023 and of making irresponsible statements regarding the investigation into that tragedy, despite the Commission of Inquiry report being publicly available since January 2024.

“In true APNU+AFC fashion, Mrs Hasting tries to master the art of putting on a show only when tragedy strikes. To use the tragic end of Toshao Ridley Joseph’s life as a political weapon is unconscionable,” Teixeira said on Monday.

Teixeira also criticised Hastings for invoking the

“good old Burnham days,” pointing out that during the era of Forbes Burnham, Toshaos were manipulated and restricted from freely interacting with others, especially members of the People’s PPP/C.

Teixeira responded to Hastings’ comments on the state of the country, asserting that Guyanese are witnessing the ongoing transformation of their nation, particularly in Amerindian communities. She highlighted advancements such as the construction of new schools, expanded com-

munications infrastructure, and the revitalisation of the solar household electrification programme, which benefits thousands of Amerindian families. Additionally, she pointed to over $9 billion in carbon credits revenue shared with more than 240 Amerindian communities and the increase in stipends for Toshaos.

Teixeira further reminded Hastings of her party’s poor track record regarding Amerindian rights and welfare, particularly during their time

in Government from 19661992 and from 2015-2020. She referenced actions such as the termination of nearly 2,000 young Amerindian Community Support Officers and the dismantling of the Amerindian Land Titling Unit, which she said left Amerindian communities vulnerable and underfunded.

“If I were Mrs Hastings, I would have kept quiet because the track record of her party between 1966-1992 was so abysmally bad with regards to the Amerindian people: poverty, isolation and neglect, coupled with the rigging of Toshaos’ elections to keep them under the control of the ruling party, her party. At one time Aishalton had two village councils, one with the Burnham appointed Toshao and council and the other elected by the community. The former was recognised and received their stipends etc. while the other was not. And let’s look at more recent times: 20152020, no different! Their first assault took place a few months after taking office, terminating 1,972 young Amerindian Community Support Officers in one swoop, sending their families into greater poverty,”

the Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister said.

Teixeira also emphasised that the opposition’s attempts to exploit Joseph’s tragic death for political gain were hypocritical, noting that their party’s policies and actions had long undermined the rights and wellbeing of Amerindian communities. She concluded by reaffirming that Toshao Ridley Joseph’s legacy deserved more respect than to be used for political point-scoring, and that the people of Region Seven deserve leaders who serve their communities with sincerity, not exploitation.

“Please don’t cry caiman tears and posture you cared. You were in Government and you know very well what was not done for or in some cases taken away from Amerindian people and their communities, and from your statements in Parliament you defended all of these assaults on our Amerindian peoples. To now posture as a champion of Amerindian people while using the murder of a young leader to score political points is the height of hypocrisy and vulgarity,” Teixeira added.

T&T Education Minister, two children die in early-morning fire

The Trinidad and Tobago Government on Monday confirmed the death of the Junior Minister in the Ministry of Education, Lisa MorrisJulian, in a fire.

Initial reports indicate that the fire at her home in Arima also claimed the lives of two other persons. Also dead are her six-year-old son, Jesiah Morris-Julian, and her 25-year-old daughter, Xianne Morris-Julian. Her husband Daniel Julian and a family friend are in hospital. The fire destroyed the family’s home on Farfan Street.

The Dr Keith Rowleyled Government said in the statement that she will be remembered “fondly as an unrelenting voice for her constituency and the government”.

“The Government of Trinidad and Tobago extends our deepest condolences to her family, loved ones and the constituents at this time and will keep them in our collective thoughts and prayers,” it said.

It said that the former Mayor of Arima, who also served senior mem-

ber of the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM), was elected as the parliamentary representative for the D’Abadie/O’Meara constituency in the 2020 general election, and had “been nominated unopposed and selected as the proposed candidate for the 2025 general election”.

“Lisa will be remembered fondly not only as an unrelenting voice for her constituency, the Government and the PNM but also for her love and support for her family and the countless lives she has touched”.

The Trinidad Guardian reported that the National Women’s League of the People’s National Movement (PNM) has added its voice to those extending condolences to the family, friends, and “all those whose lives were touched by the tragic loss of Mrs Lisa Morris-Julian”, who died tragically today in a house fire, along with two of her children.

In a statement, the PNM’s National Women’s League described the late minister as “a remarkable public servant and political figure but also a true

champion for the people of Trinidad and Tobago.”

“Her tireless contributions across various sectors, particularly in Local Government, left an indelible mark on our nation. As Mayor of Arima, she dedicated herself to uplifting her community, focusing on youth engagement, empowerment, and fostering local entrepreneurship. Her work was driven by a deep love for her people and a desire to build stronger, more resilient communities,” the release stated. “In 2020, she was elected as the Member of Parliament for D’Abadie/ O’Meara under the People’s

National Movement (PNM), where her leadership resonated with her constituents. She worked tirelessly to instil a sense of pride and belonging, uplifting the lives of those she served.”

The statement also highlighted MP Morris-Julian’s contribution to education sector as both a Minister in the Education Ministry and an educator.

“In her role as Minister in the Ministry of Education, she championed educational reforms that sought to nurture creativity, expand opportunities for underprivileged schools, and inspire a new generation of lead-

ers,” the National Women’s League pointed out. “Before her political career, Mrs Morris-Julian was a devoted teacher, and her passion for education and the arts ran deep. She was a tireless advocate for nurturing young minds and encouraging the creative spirit, earning accolades in the secondary school drama festival and recognition from the Cropper Foundation as one of the Caribbean’s emerging writers.”

The tribute to the late MP continued:

“Her kindness, strength, compassion, and wisdom touched each and every one of us. She was a woman of faith, driven by a boundless love for her country, her family, and her people ... Beyond her remarkable career, Mrs. Morris-Julian was a mother whose heart overflowed with love for her children. Her family was the centre of her universe, and she poured her heart and soul into raising them with the same unwavering dedication and passion that she brought to her public service. To lose her, and her

children Xianne and Jesiah is a tragedy that has left a profound void in our hearts.”

According to the National Women’s League statement, the PNM and the people of D’Abadie/O’meara have been plunged into mourning, especially given the tragic circumstances in which the late MP lost her life.

“There are no words to fully capture the grief we feel, nor the immense loss we have suffered with her passing,” the PNM’s National Women’s League said.

“But in this moment of mourning,” it added, “we are also filled with immense gratitude for the legacy she leaves behind—a legacy of service, empowerment, love, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every individual ... While we grieve, we will also celebrate her life and honour her memory. Let us remember Mrs Lisa Morris-Julian as she lived – a woman of exceptional grace, compassion, and service, whose impact on this nation will never be forgotten.”

(Excerpts from CMC and Trinidad Guardian)

Junior Minister in the Ministry of Education, Lisa Morris-Julian

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister and PPP/C Geographic Member of Parliament for Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), Gail Teixeira

Opposition’s Geographic MP for the region, Dawn Hastings

Rotary Club of Georgetown Central receives $1.1M in donation from Tropical Shipping

Adonation of some $1.1 million has been granted to the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central from Tropical Shipping, a US-based transportation and logistics company.

This donation, a press release on Monday said part of the company's Community Relations Program, which focuses on supporting communities in the regions Tropical Shipping serves.

Country Manager of Tropical Shipping in Guyana Glenis Hodge and Customer Care and Administrative Manager, Sherry Singh, handed over the donation.

Hodge highlighted the company’s core values during which she noted that people are quite essential in their operations.

"People are our prior-

ity we take responsibility for our employees, customers, shareholders, and

Scotiabank named as Guyana’s Bank of the Year by Financial Times publication

Scotiabank has been recognised as Guyana’s Bank of the Year 2024 by The Banker Magazine, a Financial Times publication, which is regarded as the industry standard for banking excellence. The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards aims to recognise institutions that have grown while retaining a solid balance sheet, improved the quality of their service, invested in technology and considered their role within their local communities. In commenting on the Bank’s achievement, Country Manager of Scotiabank Guyana, Nafeeza Gaffoor, indicated “This has certainly been an exciting year for us and our clients. We introduced new products, services and tools, delivering an improved banking experience for clients and supporting them with getting their banking done faster and more conveniently.”

In a release on Monday, the bank said that notable highlights from this recognition include the launch of the new Scotia Caribbean app, which has biometric sign-in and a redesigned user experience and making secure mo-

bile banking more accessible to clients 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“The upgraded Scotia OnLine Banking platform, which now includes one-time password protection and expanded bill payment options to include local utilities and mobile money providers such as Mobile Money Guyana, GPL, GWI and Digicel; introduction of our proprietary application technology, which enables clients to accept and process payments through self-check and kiosk services,

providing them with seamless, self-sufficient technology. Scotiabank is the only bank locally to have invested in its proprietary digital application,” the release stated.

The Banker Magazine is the world's longest running international banking magazine, recognised as a leading source of information on finance and investment around the globe. This year, Scotiabank was also named the Bank of the Year 2024 in Bahamas, Barbados Canada, Trinidad & Tobago and Turks & Caicos.

the communities in which we operate. Our community relations program provides continued support for the countries and islands where we serve, contributing to sustainability, growth, and development,” she told the gathering.

Hodge stressed the importance of strong partnerships, saying that partnerships have been the fuel for progression.

“Meaningful collabo-

ration with organizations like Rotary Georgetown Central, which focuses on various service projects, including youth development.”

She added, "our donation today demonstrates our commitment to the development of youth in a rapidly growing Guyana," she said. "We hope this contribution helps more youth benefit from educational and developmental activ-

ities, opening doors of opportunities and contributing to the country's overall growth and development."

For over 30 years in Guyana, and more than 60 years globally, Tropical Shipping has supported initiatives aimed at fostering community growth.. Hodge affirmed that the company would continue to support such initiatives as it thrives in the dynamic shipping industry.

Brazilian judge orders Adele song be pulled globally over plagiarism claim

ABrazilian judge has ordered a song by British pop superstar Adele, Million Years Ago, be pulled worldwide – including on streaming services – over a continuing plagiarism claim by a Brazilian composer.

The injunction threatens the Brazilian subsidiaries of Sony and Universal, Adele’s labels, with a fine of $8,000 “per act of non-compliance”.

The music companies, however, can still appeal the decision.

The injunction was made by judge Victor Torres on Friday, in Rio de Janeiro’s sixth commercial court, pending further activity in the continuing plagiarism case.

His preliminary injunction, obtained on Monday by AFP, orders Sony and Universal to stop “immediately and globally, from using, reproducing, editing, distributing or commercializing the song Million Years Ago, by any modality, means, physical or digital support, streaming or sharing platform”.

“It is a landmark for Brazilian music, which … has often been copied to compose successful international hits,” Fredimio Trotta, the lawyer for Brazilian composer Toninho Geraes, who brought the plagiarism

complaint, told AFP.

Trotta said his firm this week would work to ensure that radio and television broadcasters, and streaming services around the world, are alerted to the Brazilian ruling.

His client Geraes claims Adele’s 2015 song plagiarized the music of his samba classic Mulheres (Women), recorded by Brazilian singer Martinho da Vila on a 1995 hit album.

Geraes is suing for lost royalties, $160,000 in moral damages, plus songwriting credit on Adele’s track.

Sony Brazil said it did “not have a statement at this time”, while Universal Music Brazil did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Trotta said the injunction should have a chilling effect on foreign singers

and labels looking to rip off Brazilian tunes.

“International producers and artists who … have Brazilian music ‘on their radar’ for possible parasitic use will think twice, given this decision,” the lawyer said.

Adele was also accused by Turkish music fans of plagiarism in Million Years Ago in 2015. They claimed its tune was similar to one in a 1985 song by a Kurdish singer, Ahmet Kaya, called Acilara Tutunmak (Clinging to Pain).

Kaya died in exile in France in 2000, and his widow said it was unlikely a global star like Adele would do such a thing.

Brazil is a signatory to the 1886 Berne convention that agrees international protection for copyrighted works. (The Guardian)

File photo: Scotiabank’s Carmichael Street, Georgetown branch

Representatives from the Tropical Shipping handing over donation to Rotary Club of Georgetown

Members of the Rotary Club alongside officials from Tropical Shipping

British pop superstar Adele

Regional Case against Brazil coup plotters could end decades of impunity

The arrest of a fourstar General in Brazil over the weekend shows courts are ready to play hardball with those accused of plotting to violently overturn election results, breaking with the impunity that shadowed nearly a century of military coups.

Former Brazilian Defence Minister Walter Braga Netto was arrested on Saturday for allegedly meddling in the investigation of a coup plot organised with former President Jair Bolsonaro, his running mate in the 2022 election.

Last month, Federal Police accused them and over two dozen active and retired military officers of taking part in the plot, including a scheme to kill President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva before he could take office.

Lawyers for Bolsonaro and Braga Netto deny they took part in the alleged conspiracy or would have benefited from one.

The preventive arrest and Police report targeting military brass suggest they may not enjoy the traditional amnesty for members of Brazil's armed forces who punctuated the 20th century with their political interventions.

It may also provide a test for Lula's fraught relationship with the Brazilian military.

Before Braga Netto, military historians cite just two such high-ranking generals

arrested for meddling with presidential succession in the 1920s and the 1960s.

Unlike Argentina and Chile, where armed forces also brought down elected governments to install bloody dictatorships during the Cold War, Brazil never punished the leaders of its military regime from 1964 to 1985.

Due to a 1979 law pardoning the crimes of the military government, Brazilian courts have all but ignored public evidence that the dictatorship tortured thousands of people and killed hundreds, according to a 2014 government report.

"Because there was no punishment, because that history wasn't told, it's alive – like a serpent's egg," said Eliana Pintor, 62, one of hundreds of demonstrators who gathered in the São Paulo rain on Tuesday to demand Bolsonaro and his

alleged co-conspirators be brought to trial.

Brazil's prosecutor general is expected to decide next year whether to bring charges against Bolsonaro and his associates, who deny any wrongdoing and call the investigation legally suspect and politically motivated.

Bolsonaro's allies in Congress are pushing a bill granting amnesty to the former President and his supporters facing legal jeopardy for vandalising government buildings in Brasilia in January 2023 during a protest calling for the military to overturn election results.

Although that bill currently faces political and legal hurdles, Brazil's often slow-moving justice system could take years to try to eventually punish Bolsonaro and other targets of the Federal Police investigation concluded last month.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Trinidad: Bandits kill pensioner during home invasion with her own knife

In a horrifying home invasion, thieves stormed Amina Mohammed’s Couva home bare-handed, smashed a kitchen window, and stabbed her to death with her own knife, even after they obtained TT$10,000 in cash and jewellery during a Saturday night robbery.

Police said Mohammed, 68, of Nancy Street, Lisas Gardens, Couva suffered four stab wounds to the neck even though she passively cooperated with her attackers.

The retired Rentokil supervisor had been dishing out food for her husband, Nazem Mohammed, 74, when the intruders struck by smashing a glass portion of their kitchen window and gaining access inside.

Speaking to reporters, Mohammed’s only son, Ahmad Saleem Mohammed, described the harrowing ordeal, revealing that he cradled his mother tenderly as her blood ran down his hands.

“They came to get money and jewellery, and they still killed her,” he said.

Describing Mohammed, Ahmad said, “My mom is very passive. She would not have resisted or retaliated.”

The thieves, who wore dark clothing with masks covering their faces, reportedly entered the house by climbing over a neighbour’s wall.

Smashing a privacy glass window in the kitchen, they improvised using kitchen

knives from the Mohammeds’ own home.

Ahmad recounted his father’s chilling account of the events: “My mom was taking out dinner for Dad. They smashed the kitchen door. They knew the layout of the house. They switched off the lights and said, ‘Where the money?’ After getting less than TT$10,000, they tied up my parents and asked for jewellery. My mom carried them to the bedroom. That’s where they killed her.”

He said Nazem, tied up in the living room, managed to free himself only to find Mohammed unresponsive in the bedroom, bleeding from the neck. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Venezuela has freed 533 election protest detainees, Attorney General says

Venezuela's Attorney General said in a statement on Monday that 533 persons arrested for taking part in protests over a contested July election have been freed.

More than 2000 persons were arrested for taking part in protests after the contest, according to the Government.

Electoral authorities and the country's supreme court have said President Nicolás Maduro won a third term, without releasing ballot box-level tallies of votes despite international requests to do so.

The country's Opposition has released ballot box-level tallies it says show a resounding victory for its erstwhile candidate.

On Thursday, the Attorney General's office said some 328 election protesters had been released, including 103 released last week and 225 previously freed in November.

Rights group Foro Penal said it has only been able to verify 48 of the 103 releases.

Separately, the Venezuelan Prison Observatory NonGovernmental Group (NGO) said on X that three protesters have died in custody, including two deaths in the last 72 hours.

Neither the Attorney General's Office nor the Ministry of Information immediately responded to requests for comment. (Reuters)

Rebranded LIAT starts AntiguaJamaica service December 20

Buoyed by new investment, rebranded LIAT 20 Airline is scheduled to begin direct flights between Jamaica and Antigua on December 20, further strengthening regional air connectivity and enhancing Caribbean Governments’ quest to promote multi-destination tourism.

According to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Hafsah Abdulsalam, the once-weekly service into Kingston will be price-competitive.

“For Jamaicans, it’s an exciting opportunity for the options that are now being made available to them. So we’re offering affordable flights… At least on a route-per-route basis, our commitment is to offer better rates than the competition,” Abdulsalam told the Jamaica Observer on Sunday.

“We would like our Jamaican brothers and sisters to embrace LIAT, to try the product. I’m sure they would go back and advocate on our behalf ,” she said.

“At the moment we’ve got Trinidad and Guyana planned and we would expand that as we grow the market as well. So what we’re targeting is to pair the routes where we see the biggest demand for passengers on both sides of the aisle. So, we know there is demand between Trinidad and Jamaica for instance, we want to be able to offer additional lift for passengers that will be flying on that route. So Jamaicans have

got options and are not limited to just one or two flight options out of Jamaica at the moment,” Abdulsalam said.

The 67-year-old airline had ceased operations in January, this after its major shareholders – the Governments of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines – took a decision in 2022 to liquidate the debt-ridden carrier and transfer its assets to a new entity called LIAT 2020 Limited.

At the time, the airline was reported to have debt exceeding US$37 million.

Now, with almost EC$200 million invested in LIAT 2020, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne last month described it as the best-capitalised airline operating in the Caribbean today.

Since its relaunch, LIAT 20, with a fleet of six aircraft, has been providing service from its hub in St John’s, Antigua, to 10 destinations in the Caribbean.

“We fly up north into

St Kitts, St Maarten, Tortola… and then down south we’re flying into Dominica, St Vincent, St Lucia, Barbados, Grenada, Guyana,” Abdulsalam said, adding that the Trinidad route will be introduced on December 19, a day before the Jamaica service.

The carrier’s re-entry to Caribbean skies comes as another regional airline, Bahamasair, commenced twice-weekly flights between Nassau and Montego Bay last month. At that time Jamaica’s Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett welcomed the service, which moves passengers between both destinations on Thursdays and Sundays, saying it will enhance multi-destination tourism in the Caribbean.

On Sunday, Abdulsalam said that although LIAT 20’s Kingston service will target business travellers, the airline has its eyes set on the tourism market and as such intends to expand to Montego Bay in the new year. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro talks with media upon his arrival at Brasilia International Airport, in Brasilia, Brazil, November 25, 2024 (Reuters/Adriano Machado photo)

A woman reacts outside a prison next to other family members as they wait for news about their loved ones who were detained during protests over a contested July presidential election, in Tocuyito, Venezuela, December 16, 2024 (Reuters/Juan Carlos Hernandez photo)

Around the World

OIL NEWS

Oil sags on soft Chinese spending, investor pause before US Fed rate move

Teenage shooter kills student, teacher at Wisconsin school, Police say

Ateenage shooter killed a fellow student and a teacher at a Wisconsin school and wounded six others on Monday before Police found the suspect dead at the scene in the latest school shooting to devastate a US community.

Oil futures slipped from the highest levels in several weeks on Monday on weakness in consumer spending in China, the world's largest oil importer, and as investors paused buying ahead of the US Federal Reserve's interest rate decision.

Brent crude futures settled at US$73.91 a barrel, down 58 cents, or 0.8 per cent lower, after settling on Friday at their highest since November 22.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude settled at US$70.71 a barrel, shedding 58 cents, and also down 0.8 per cent the session after it registered its highest close since November 7.

Last week, oil benefited from the expectation that supply would tighten with additional sanctions on crude producers Russia and Iran, while possible lower interest rates in the US and Europe would spur demand.

"We feel that last week’s events have been appropriately priced and that this week will be bringing fewer items capable of supporting oil prices," said Jim Ritterbusch of consultancy Ritterbusch and Associates in Florida.

Chinese retail sales were slower than expected, keeping pressure on Beijing to ramp up stimulus for a fragile economy facing US trade tariffs under a second Trump Administration.

"It's just a very bearish scenario where there's not a lot hope of demand growth for crude oil," said Bob Yawger, director of energy futures at Mizuho in New York.

The Chinese outlook contributed to the decision by oil producer group OPEC+ to postpone plans for higher output until April.

"Whatever stimulus is being deployed, consumers are not buying into it; and without a serious sea-change in personal spending behaviour, China's economic fortunes will be stunted," said John Evans at oil broker PVM.

Traders also took profits while awaiting the US central bank's decision on interest rates this week.

IG market analyst Tony Sycamore said that light profittaking was to be expected after prices jumped more than six per cent last week.

He noted that many banks and funds are likely to have closed their books given reduced appetite for positions during the holiday season.

The Fed is expected to cut interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point at its December 17-18 meeting, which will also provide an updated look at how much further Fed officials think they will reduce rates in 2025 and perhaps into 2026.

Lower interest rates can stimulate economic growth and increase oil demand.

Oil prices were further pressured by the US dollar, which briefly hovered close to a three-week high versus other major currencies, ahead of the week of central bank meetings.

The US dollar and commodities like crude oil tend to trade inversely.

Investors were also looking to US oil inventory reports coming up this week for guidance.

US crude oil and distillate inventories were expected to have fallen last week, while gasoline stocks likely rose, a preliminary Reuters poll showed ahead of a report from the American Petroleum Institute today and one from the Energy Information Administration on Wednesday

Four analysts polled by Reuters estimated on average that crude inventories fell by about 1.9 million barrels in the week to December 13. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Police did not publicly identify any of the victims at the Abundant Life Christian School, a private institution that teaches some 400 students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

At least six other people were wounded, according to Police. Two students had life-threatening injuries; four other people had injuries that were not life-threatening.

The shooter, a student at the school who used a handgun, was found dead inside the school by officers who immediately entered cam-

pus upon arrival, Police said. They declined to identify the shooter by name, age or gender.

No officers fired their weapons, Police said.

There was as yet no known motive for the violence, which authorities said took place in one space inside the school. The shooter's family was cooperating with the investigation, Police said.

Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes, a former public school history teacher, said the shooting took place just before 11:00h local time.

"Today is a sad, sad day, not only for Madison, but for our entire country, where yet another police chief is doing a press conference to speak about violence in our community," Barnes told reporters.

"Every child, every person in that building, is a victim, and will be a victim forever. These types of trauma don't just go away," Barnes said.

Other media reports have said the attacker was a female student.

There have been 322 school shootings this year in the US, according to the K-12 School Shooting Database website. That is the second highest total of any year since 1966, according to that databasetopped only by last year's total of 349 such shootings. (Excerpt from Reuters)

UN chief welcomes commitments by new Syrian authorities, as al-Assad speaks

United Nations aid chief Tom Fletcher met with the commander of Syria's new administration, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and newly-appointed Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir on Monday to discuss scaling up humanitarian assistance in the country.

Following Fletcher's meeting, UN Secretary

General Antonio Guterres said in a statement that he welcomed the caretaker government's commitment to protect civilians, including humanitarian workers.

"I also welcome their agreement to grant full humanitarian access through all border crossings; cut through bureaucracy over permits and visas for humanitarian workers; ensure

Canada's Finance Minister quits over Trump tariff dispute with Trudeau

Canada's Finance

Minister Chrystia

Freeland has resigned from her post, citing disagreements with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on how to respond to incoming President Donald Trump's threat of tariffs.

She announced her resignation in a letter to Trudeau on Monday, in which she said the two have been "at odds about the best path forward for Canada", and pointed to the "grave challenge" posed by Trump's policy of "aggressive economic nationalism".

Freeland said the decision comes after Trudeau informed her last week that he no longer wanted her to be his government's top economic adviser.

Her resignation came hours before she was due to provide an annual fiscal government update in parliament.

The move may push Trudeau's already shaky minority government to the

brink

After nine years in power, the Prime Minister has faced growing calls to resign over concerns he is a drag on his party's fortunes. The Liberal leader's approval rate has plummeted from 63 per cent when he was first elected to 28 per cent in June of this year, according to one poll tracker.

Following Freeland's departure on Monday, five siting Liberal Members of Parliament (MPs) publicly called on Trudeau to step down.

An emergency Liberal caucus meeting was set for 1700 local time (22:00 GMT).

Within hours of Freeland's announcement, Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc was sworn in as her replacement.

LeBlanc, who has been close friends with the Prime Minister since childhood, is considered one of his most loyal allies. (Excerpt from BBC News)

the continuity of essential Government services, including health and education; and engage in genuine and practical dialogue with the wider humanitarian community," Guterres said.

Syria's Bashar al-Assad was ousted after insurgent forces led by the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham swept through Syria in a lightning offensive, ending more than 50 years of iron-fisted rule by his family.

The BBC reported the former President said he never intended to flee to Russia – in what is purported to be his first statement

since the fall of Damascus eight days ago.

Assad's reported statement was put on the Telegram channel belonging to the Syrian presidency on Monday, although it is not clear who currently controls it – or whether he wrote it.

In it he says that, as the Syrian capital fell to rebels, he went to a Russian military base in Latakia province "to oversee combat operations" only to see that Syrian troops had abandoned positions. (Excerpts from Reuters and BBC News)

Ukraine reports North Korean losses on Russia's Kursk front

Ukraine's HUR military spy agency said on Monday that North Korean units fighting for Russia sustained losses of at least 30 soldiers killed or wounded around several villages on the front in Russia's Kursk region over the weekend.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said at the weekend that Russia was using North Korean troops in significant numbers for the first time to conduct assaults in Kursk region in southern Russia.

On Monday, he posted a video which he said showed Russian soldiers attempting to conceal the identities of dead North Korean servicemen by burning their faces.

The HUR statement is the first time Kyiv has

claimed North Korean losses on this scale and in some detail. It said the casualties occurred around the villages of Plekhovo, Vorozhba and Martynovka in the Kursk region. It provided no evidence.

In Washington, Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder said the United States had "indications" that North Korean forces had suffered casualties both killed and wounded. It was not possible to independently verify the figures.

The Kremlin declined to comment on the Ukrainian assertion, referring the question to the Russian Defence Ministry which has made no comment on the subject. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Children prepare to board a bus bound for the reunification centre where they'll meet their parents after a shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, US, December 16, 2024

(Reuters/Cullen Granzen photo)

What you do to help others will improve your life. Socializing, volunteering and spending time with people who make you think will highlight your day. Live, love and laugh

Weigh the pros and cons before taking on a challenge. If anger gets the better of you, prepare to retreat and rethink your strategy. Before judging others, recognize their situation.

Change can be invigorating. A personal change will work wonders for you regarding your attitude. Consider what you want to do next and think carefully about how indulgent or prudent you wish to be.

Do what makes you feel good, and you will make headway. Taking a break from the hustle and bustle that comes with year-end activities and responsibilities will be rejuvenating and give way to a unique outlook.

It's OK to get fired up about what's happening in the world around you, but don't let it consume you. Pay attention to the ones you love and make a point to enjoy and be grateful for what you have.

Protect your home, your reputation and your future. Don't sit on the sideline waiting to see what happens. The only way to gain ground is to control the outcome. Let your actions speak for you.

Explore the possibilities, step into situations and do what makes you feel good about yourself and your future. Socialize and network, and doors will open.

Stay focused on what you love to do most. Express yourself creatively and explore. Learn from past endeavors and picture the future you want to build for yourself and those you love.

You can dream all you want, but action is necessary to make a difference. Use your insight, experience and knowledge to your advantage, and financial gain will follow.

Set a budget for the remainder of the year and stick to it regardless of the temptations you encounter. Don't let uncertainty or someone's power of persuasion disrupt your plans.

Don't fear criticism or let anyone deter you from heading in a direction that's meaningful to you. Don't look back; satisfy your soul and do what's best for yourself and your loved ones.

Take it upon yourself to make arrangements that you find exciting and that tempt you to engage in something unusual or personally satisfying. Discipline will ward off temptation and instill fortitude.

ARCHIE

Kwakwani Girls, QC and LTI Boys achieve championship status

Buoyed with excitement and scores of supporters, Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) culminated the 2024 season of school basketball as Kwakwani Secondary Girls and Queen’s College Boys clinched championship status in the 13th Titan Bowl while Linden Technical Institute (LTI) resigned supreme in the third Tertiary Knockout Tournament.

Known for their dominance in basketball, Kwakwani’s Girls lived up to expectations once again as they annihilated President’s College on Sunday at the National Gymnasium. The Region 10 side controlled the first half of the game by a two-point margin, 10-8 and went on to dominate the second half, with the final scoreline reading 19-15.

With a three-pointer being the separator, Queen’s

College pulled off the upset of the night as they secured an ecstatic win against Kwakwani Secondary Boys, establishing a 17- point lead in the first half. Kwakwani Secondary managed to pull themselves together in the

second half, but it was a little too late as Queen’s College secured the win, 4946.

Speaking to media operatives after the match, QC Head Coach Alisande Jaiserrisingh expounded

Sammy to take over as West Indies' all-format coach from April 2025

Daren Sammy has been named Head Coach of the West Indies men's team across all formats.

Sammy, who has been the Coach of West Indies' T20 International (T20I) and One-Day International (ODI) teams since last year, will take charge of the Test side from April 2025 replacing Andre Coley, Cricket West Indies (CWI) Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe announced in St Vincent.

"It's always an honour to represent West Indies in any format or any position. For me, this news is not something I was expecting," Sammy said at the press conference.

"Coaching was never something I saw myself doing, but I must admit the way that it's been going, I've developed a much stronger passion and a love for the job... I believe in processes, something that we've been able to do in the white-ball formats and, with this new role, I've already mapped out some of the areas and some of the processes that we'll have to follow in order for us to be successful [in Test cricket]. I'm a patient man and once I trust that process and understand the requirement from the Director of Cricket, then the plan gets into action.

"So, I'm really excited about the added responsibility and the new journey, one that I think myself and my team will be prepared for."

Under Sammy's leadership, West Indies have won 15 of 28 ODIs since May 2023, winning four of seven bilateral series. In T20Is, the team clinched four series at home – against India, England and South Africa – and lost to Sri

Lanka, Australia (both away) and England (home) – this is not counting the ongoing series against Bangladesh. Overall, they have won 20 out of 35 T20Is played during this period.

In Tests, West Indies have lost seven matches, and won and drawn two each under Coley since May 2023, their high point being the pulsating eight-run victory against Australia in the Brisbane Test in January this year. They have not won even one series in this phase though, and are at the bottom of the World Test Championship (WTC) points table.

"Post our current World Test Championship campaign, we are going to be expanding Mr Sammy's role to encompass all formats," Bascombe announced. "So when we host Australia next summer, Daren Sammy will be the Head Coach of all senior men's teams. I want to take this opportunity to thank Andre Coley, who has served well.

"He still has to complete his World Test Championship campaign in Pakistan, and he will have our full support. But

again, I want to congratulate Mr Sammy. We have been quite impressed with the way that he has charted a course for our white-ball teams, and he has guided them towards consistency of performance, and that is exactly what we want to see in our Test team."

Before he took over the West Indies role, Sammy's leadership skills, both as a Captain and Coach, were central to St Lucia Kings' success in the CPL. In 2020, he captained an unfancied Kings side to the CPL final. In CPL 2021, he was appointed Kings' T20 cricket consultant and brand ambassador. In 2022, Sammy took over from Andy Flower as Head Coach and led them to the Eliminator, where Kings lost to eventual champions Jamaica Tallawahs.

At the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Sammy had coached Peshawar Zalmi in 2020 and 2021 before being reappointed to the post for PSL 2023. Sammy had been a mainstay for the franchise since the PSL's inception in 2016, and had been one of the most popular overseas figures in the league. (ESPNcricinfo)

that it was great to end the year with title success and divulged that the win was a testament to the hard work put in over the years.

Jaiserrisingh added: “That's a narrow win… Coming into the game we knew that it would be a difficult game for us, because Kwakwani , they have been the champions for the past couple of years. So, we knew that we have to put up a strong fight and that we would have to work extremely hard and stick to our offensive and defensive setups in our game plan and we did just that.

“It was a close game coming down to the end because Kwakwani really pushed and they showed that they wanted it as much as we did, but in the end, it showed that

we wanted it just a little bit more. And it's a testament to the efforts we've been putting in over the past year at Queen's College. We've been working on building a culture and it shows that that has been successful. It’s our third championship for the year and an excellent way to close out.”

Despite missing key players, Linden Technical Institute (LTI) overcame the weak defence of the Government Technical Institute as they secured championship status in the Tertiary Knockout Tournament. Showcasing their ability to rain 3’s, LTI led by nine points in the first half and went on to secure a 13-point victory, 30-43.

LTI Captain Stephen George, speaking to media

operatives, disclosed their confidence heading into the match and going forward into next year to dominate tournaments.

George said, “Well, we ain't lose in the past three tournaments…So, we know we're going to win since the game start. So, just play with confidence and that's it. Well, next year we're going to come stronger, because we didn't really get to train a lot for this. But we're going to come stronger next year and make sure we dominate every year until there.”

The two year-end tournaments were sponsored by Francis-Lau Boyce Construction Co Ltd, ENET, John Fernandes, National Sports Commission, and Real Value Supermarket.

Points galore as Meadowbrook Nets and GDF bag 1st wins

Scores of basketball talents flocked to the National Gymnasium as the Meadowbrook Nets and GDF went home winners on Sunday in the Guyana Basketball League, organised by the Guyana Basketball Federation.

In the opening game, the Panthers were victims of an attacking GDF, who handed the Panthers their first defeat. The soldiers dominated from the jump ball, establishing a lead in the first quarter with the scoreline reading 113.

The Panthers went on to show some class as they outscored the soldiers in the sec-

ond quarter. They minimised the lead by putting up 10 points, elevating their score to 13, while the soldiers were restricted to four points, bringing their total to 15.

The third quarter saw both teams missing baskets; however, GDF managed to score 12 points while the Panthers had 11 points.

With a dominant fourth quarter, GDF showed their consistency and ability to attack the Panthers ’ defence to set up their 81-53 victory, starting their campaign on a high.

The first quarter ended with the Nets leading the game 17-13. The Nets extended their score to 34 while the Guardians netted 22 total points.

Coming back from the half, the Guardians out-scored the Nets 20-15 in the third quarter, reducing the difference to seven points 49-42.

However, the Meadowbrook Nets sealed the win by 14 points, with the score reading 67-53.

Closing off the night’s action, Meadowbrook Nets, recuperating after their opening game loss, managed to upset Plaisance Guardians, with their mixture of youth and experience proving to be pivotal to piercing defences.

Daren Sammy will take the reins of all West Indies men’s teams in 2025

A glimpse of the action between Meadowbrook Nets and Plaisance Guardians

2024 Titan Bowl female champions Kwakwani Secondary

2024 Tertiary Knockout champions Linden Technical Institute

Bangladesh thwarted Rovman Powell's stunning effort to power West Indies to an improbable win, after Hasan Mahmud defended nine runs in a heroic last over to seal a seven-run victory in the first T20I at the Arnos Vale Ground.

The capacity crowd was presented with a thrilling

Mahmud's heroic last over helps Bangladesh survive Powell's blitz

until then struck a four and a six, was joined by Romario Shepherd to resurrect his side.

The pair combined to take 15 off Rishad Hossain in the 14th over, before Powell launched Taskin Ahmed for three sixes in a 23-run over to reduce the asking rate from over 11 an over to eight an over

contest in West Indies' first international match in St Vincent in 10 years. While defending 147, Mahedi Hasan's four-wicket haul reduced West Indies to 38 for 5 before Powell struck four sixes and five fours in his 35-ball 60, but he couldn't quite get them through to the end after falling in the last over.

Mahmud removed Powell and Alzarri Joseph in the final over, which started with West Indies needing 10 runs to win. Mahmud had Powell caught behind giving the Bangladesh Captain Litton Das his fifth dismissal of the game. With eight to win off the final two, Mahmud bowled Joseph for Bangladesh's first T20I win against West Indies in six years; back home in Bangladesh it was a good way to start the country's Victory Day too.

Powell the nearly man

It was all going pearshaped for Bangladesh for about four overs, though. West Indies were 61 for 7 in the 12th over when Captain Powell, who had

in the space of 12 balls. Powell carved the first six against Taskin over extra cover, the next one high over point, before finishing the over with a beautiful straight hit.

Tanzim Hasan then went for 12 runs in the

16th over with Powell hitting him for two fours, one of them bringing up his half-century off just 28 balls, to bring the equation to 28 to win from 24 balls. There was no let-up from the other end too, as Shepherd slammed Rishad for his first six although he fell in the next over when Taskin had him caught at deep midwicket, for 22 off 17 balls.

Mahedi skittles WI top order Bangladesh started spectacularly with the ball when Taskin had Brandon King caught at mid-off with his first ball. Six balls later, Mahedi enticed Nicholas Pooran into a charge, and beat him with a straight delivery to have him stumped for 1. Mahedi then had Johnson Charles caught at mid-off after he had struck Tanzim for two sixes in a 25-run over.

Mahedi struck twice in the seventh over when he had Andre Fletcher, a last-minute replacement in the squad, caught behind before Roston Chase fell inside-edging a re-

Johnson Charles c Hasan Mahmud

b Mahedi Hasan 20

Nicholas Pooran st †Litton Das

b Mahedi Hasan 1

Roston Chase c †Litton Das

b Mahedi Hasan 7

Andre Fletcher † c †Litton Das

b Mahedi Hasan 0

Rovman Powell (c) c †Litton Das

b Hasan Mahmud 60

Gudakesh Motie c †Litton Das

b Tanzim Hasan Sakib 6

Akeal Hosein c Shamim Hossain

b Rishad Hossain 2

Romario Shepherd c Rishad Hossain

b Taskin Ahmed 22

Alzarri Joseph

20 Ov (RR: 7.35) 147/6

Did not bat: Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud Fall of wickets: 1-15 (Tanzid Hasan, 2.3 ov), 2-15 (Litton Das, 2.4 ov), 3-30 (Afif Hossain, 5.4 ov), 4-87 (Jaker Ali, 12.4 ov), 5-96 (Soumya Sarkar, 14.6 ov), 6-145 (Shamim Hossain, 19.5 ov) •

DRS

Bowling O-M-R-W

Akeal Hosein 4-1-13-2

Obed McCoy 4-0-30-2

Alzarri Joseph 4-0-26-0

Roston Chase 4-0-29-1

Romario Shepherd 3-0-33-1

Gudakesh Motie 1-0-15-0

West Indies

(T: 148 runs from 20 ovs)

Brandon King c Tanzid Hasan

b Taskin Ahmed 1

b Hasan Mahmud 9

Obed McCoy not out 0

Extras (b 1, lb 1, w 10) 12

Total 19.5 Ov (RR: 7.05) 140

Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Brandon King, 1.1 ov), 2-2 (Nicholas Pooran, 2.2 ov), 3-33 (Johnson Charles, 4.5 ov), 4-37 (Andre Fletcher, 6.3 ov), 5-38 (Roston Chase, 6.5 ov), 6-58 (Gudakesh Motie, 10.3 ov), 7-61 (Akeal Hosein, 11.4 ov), 8-128 (Romario Shepherd, 17.1 ov), 9-139 (Rovman Powell, 19.3 ov), 10-140 (Alzarri Joseph, 19.5 ov) •

DRS

Bowling O-M-R-W Hasan Mahmud 3.5-0-18-2

Taskin Ahmed] 4-0-28-2

Mahedi Hasan 4-0-13-4

Tanzim Hasan Sakib 4-0-47-1

Rishad Hossain 4-0-32-1

Hosein's early strikes West Indies too had a great powerplay with the ball when Akeal Hosein struck on consecutive balls. By cleaning up Tanzid Hasan for an 11-ball 6, Hosein became West Indies' highest wicket-taker during powerplays in home T20Is. He went past Samuel Badree's 16 wickets in that phase of the innings and also continues to be the leading wicket-taker among spinners in powerplays since his T20I debut in July 2021.

Next ball, Hosein continued Litton's run of poor form from the ODIs, taking a simple return catch. It was Litton's second duck in a row on this tour after scoring 4 and 2 in the first two ODIs.

Bangladesh get the elevation Bangladesh's batting recovery came via sixes. They struck nine in the innings, the most they have struck against West Indies in T20Is. The sixes, however, started coming from the eighth over. Jaker Ali lofted Chase down the ground before Soumya Sarkar smashed Shepherd over covers. He pasted Gudakesh Motie for two more sixes in the 11th over, followed by Jaker mowing Shepherd over square leg. When Obed McCoy removed Soumya for his 50th T20I wicket, Bangladesh were losing their way with five overs remaining.

Shamim Hossain, playing his first T20I in 12 months, got into the act next. He top-edged Joseph for his first six, before going straight against McCoy for the same result. Shamim got one more against Joseph in the 18th over, before Mahedi blasted McCoy for a six over extra cover in the final over to nearly take them to 150. (ESPNcricinfo)

verse sweep. By the time

Mahedi finished his quota of four overs for 4 for 13,

Bangladesh were in control of the game until Powell cut loose.

Bangladesh now lead the T20I series 1-0

Hasan Mahmud held his nerve in the final over

Rovman Powell gave his team some hope

Mahedi Hasan gave Bangladesh a good start in their defence of 147

Akeal Hosein claimed a double-wicket maiden

KFC Goodwill International Tournament…

Defending champions Clarendon, Chase’s win big on opening day

…action

continues today

The Queen’s College and Ministry of Education (MoE) Grounds were buzzing with excitement on Sunday as eight school football teams, including four from around the Caribbean, assembled for the commencement of the KFC International Goodwill Tournament.

KFC Marketing Manager Sadia Strand conducted the official kick-off for the tournament now in its fifth year, following the customary march-past exercise. The fast-food giant representative reiterated the company’s commitment to the endeavour.

Strand shared, “Now KFC is so honoured to be a part of the Goodwill football tournament and I would like to thank Petra Organisation for bringing us onboard for the fifth year. This will be the best one yet and I think it’s a great outlook into what we can expect from Petra Organisation in the future and for future KFC Goodwill Football tournaments. The competition is about to be fierce.”

Defending champions Clarendon College out of Jamaica got the ball roll-

ing with a 6-2 victory over Annai Secondary in the opening game. Nicholy Forbes, after opening the scoring in the ninth minute, registered the tournament’s first hat-trick with additional goals in the 47th and 60th minutes.

Dameon Simms (44th); Anthony Reid (50th) and Dusean Petgrave (71st) scored one goal each for Clarendon’s six while Adrian Cabral (40th) and Guy Moses (74th) were responsible for Annai’s reply.

After the game, Forbes expressed his confidence in his team’s ability to pull off the repeat.

“Feel really good. The team went out and we performed well. We just did what we’re supposed to do on the training ground and we execute it on the pitch,” Forbes shared with media operatives.

The Jamaica player added, “We lost some very important players, but some of the younger players stepped up and showed that we can do it, so we are very confident.”

The second encounter saw Trinidad’s Speyside High and Dolphin Secondary doing battle.

With a brace off the boots of Shyon George in the second and 69th minutes and one from Daviel Thomas in the 23rd, Speyside secured the 3-1 win over Dolphin.

Ezekiel Frank David netted the Guyanese team’s consolation, which had levelled the score in the 12th.

Then, Chase’s Academic Foundation put on a team effort to secure the biggest win of the day, thumping Suriname’s Henry Hassankhan Community School 8-2. Emmanuel Campbell broke the ice with a well- executed header in the 13th minute followed by strikes from Bryan Wharton (15th); Isaiah Ifill (60th); Tyrell Walcott (65th) and Jaden Christian (85th), in addition to a dou-

ble off the boots of Omar Sam (63rd, 74th) and an own goal, which accounted for Chase’s eight. Ishan Dhanpal had netted one of Suriname’s two goals which locked the score at 2-2 at the half, setting the stage for Chase’s eventual comeback in the second half.

Chase’s Captain Wharton was optimistic about his team’s performances going forward, highlighting that three key players were absent from Sunday’s game on account of international duties.

Wharton reflected, “I think we had to dig deep, because two errors cost us both goals in the first half and it was like, we had to go into the second half with a bit more fight and you

know, urgency. But we did it and we execute.

“I think it’s three key players and you’ll see the difference when we play with those players. We play a bit more exciting and you know, better to watch when we get those three players, but grateful for the victory most of all,” the Chase’s Captain said.

A clash between Trinidad’s St Benedict’s College and DC Caesar Fox (Waramadong) Secondary brought the curtains down on the first day’s action, with St Benedict’s prevailing 5-2.

Josiah Ochoa netted a helmet trick in the 18th, 23rd, 34th and 80th minutes after Derrel Garcia

had opened the scoring for the Trinidadian champions in the 12th minute. For Waramadong, Kelvin McAlmont (51st) and Jim Carter (82nd) found the back of the net.

The tournament continues today with round 2 of the group stage. At 13:30h, Speyside take on Annai at Queen’s College Ground while St Benedict’s and Henry Hassankhan battle at the same venue from 15:30h. Later in the afternoon, Clarendon College will meet Dolphin Secondary from 17:00h at the MoE Ground while Chase’s Academic Foundation and DC Caesar Fox will clash, beginning at 19:00h.

Queen’s College reign supreme at Georgetown inter-school chess tournament

It was an exuberant day for chess players from Queen's College when they emerged as the winners in the open and female team categories and in the individual tournament of the just-concluded InterSchool Chess Tournament involving 15 schools within Georgetown.

The collaborative effort between the Guyana Chess Federation and the Ministry of Education under the Priority Areas Programme bore fruit with the staging of the competition on December 11 and 12, 2024, at the Queen's College Auditorium.

More than 150 students registered for the competition from 15 schools in the Georgetown Educational District, eight of which are under the Priority Areas Programme.

Members of the winning open team who represented Queen's College are Kyle Couchman, CM Sachin Pitamber, WCM Aditi Joshi, and Mahir Rajkumar. The female team consisted of Ciel Clement, Kataleya Sam, Rebha Lachman, and Parnita Kishun.

Placing second in the open category were Marian Academy students Macaiah

Enoe, Alek Ubaldo Singh, Joseph Prendergast, and Mayas Khan. The New Guyana School students Abel Fernandes, Tremusa Marshall, Tejas Kandavel, and Caleb Damon came in third.

For the females, the New Guyana School team, consisting of Anaya Walrund, Anya DeGroot, Sana Sreebalakumar, and Lusianna Farlot placed second. Marian Academy girls Angelina Yhap, Tharisha Montes De Oca, Kristin Xavier, and Chelsea Harrison

took home the third-prize trophy.

Queen's College student Alexander Zhang took home the individual tournament champion trophy, while his sibling Nicholas Zhang placed second. Omar Shariff placed third. All three winners are students of Queen's College. Marian Academy student Brian Clarke took home the fourth-place prize, while Jacob McDonald from the School of the Nations won the fifth-place trophy. Vir Narine of Marian Academy won the sixth-place prize.

Four sportsmanship awards went to Shurlan Sparman of the Bishops’ High, Saura Ruplall from Marian Academy, Jeremiah Jacobs from School of the Nations, and Saidy Bourne from Richard Ishmael Secondary.

Students from the Bishops' High, Christ Church Secondary, Dolphin Secondary, Houston Secondary, Kingston Secondary, Marian Academy, New Guyana School, Richard Ishmael Secondary, School of the Nations, St John's

College, St Joseph High, St Rose’s High, St Stanislaus High, Queen's College, and Queenstown Secondary were all invited to participate in the open team, female team, and individual categories.

Teams consisted of four players from each participating school for the open and female sections. Five students were invited to play in the individual section, including the reserve player for each team.

The two-day tournament had a time control of 25 minutes with 10-second increments added to the clock after each move and was played in a seven-round Swiss format.

Teams with the most points in each category were presented with trophies and medals provided by the Ministry of Education Priority Areas Programme in a short presentation ceremony following the completion of all rounds. Saeed Zameen, the programme's coordinator, was on hand to present the trophies to the winners.

The Chess Federation said it was pleased with the turnout and enthusiasm of the students for chess at the tournament. GCF President Anand Raghunauth stated that chess would be taught

in other regions in 2025. “We have a plan and we have to be patient in the rollout for a sustainable outcome,” he said.

Raghunauth is very optimistic that chess training in Regions Two, Three, Six, and 10 will be possible next year as the GCF will diligently concentrate its efforts in 2025 on a broad-based initiative for inter-school chess and the growth of chess in the regions.

Such initiatives can see many schools being added to the Chess in Schools roster as the Federation promotes chess as a learning and teaching tool.

The GCF congratulated all the winners of the InterSchool Chess Tournament and encouraged the students to continue playing and learning chess so that they could continue to reap the benefits of playing chess and make themselves tournament-ready.

The GCF wished to thank the sponsors who provided the snacks and beverages: Topco and Sunshine Snacks. Gratitude was also extended to KFC, who assisted with the meals, and to Queen's College for the use of the auditorium.

Chase’s Academic Foundation celebrate one of their eight strikes Clarendon College (yellow) were too much for Annai Secondary to handle

First-place open team Queen's College

Futsal

With the round-of-32 dye cast last evening at the National Gymnasium when the final round-of-64 matches were contested, action in the inaugural Kashif and Shanghai Organisation year-end football extravaganza, powered by the Government of Guyana will intensify from tonight.

Five potentially-explosive showdowns are carded with the respective winners stamping their tickets to the quarter-finals of what is shaping up to be an intriguing year-end futsal spectacle.

Sparta Boss, one of two teams that have recorded the most goals in their opening fixtures of this knock-out championship, will headline the first night of this round and no doubt, will be aiming for their second win in as many matches.

Quarter-final spots at stake as

have to get past Festival City, which won via the walkover route from Money Bell.

The likes of Kelsey Benjamin, who has four goals and is third in the list for the top goal scorer accolade (4 players on 4) will be teaming up with colleagues, Guyana’s leading all-time goalscorer Omari Glasgow, Carl Griffith, Darren Niles, and Jermain “Panky” Junor as the players that will see their side to victory.

Festival City will have to bring their A-game to the arena if they are to create the biggest upset of the championship.

George, Seon Taylor, Jerry Burnette, and Mark Jahlua to see them into the next round.

Bent Street B and Alexander Village will go head to head in the night’s third match. Bent Street edged Street Vybes by the lone goal of their showdown whilst Alexander Village were pushed into extra time and penalty kicks to get past Real Sport.

Buxton will match skills with North East in the night’s second showdown from 8:15h. Buxton had made light work of Linden All-Stars whom they defeated 5-2, while North East had to dig deep to stave off the challenge of a game Region 1 side, 8-6.

The opening clash at 07:30h, features Unstoppable and Albouystown A, both had scored three goals apiece to get past their opponents in the opening-round Z-Tekk and Sophia Ballers, respectively.

They will have to prove that their 12-0 whipping of Melanie was no fluke as they will

The main supporting clash of the night will see Team Unity tackling Stabroek Ballers, both enjoying comfortable wins in their opening clashes against One Love and Mighty Rulers respectively. Team Family will be banking on their trio that scored for them, Chris Macey, Devon Padmore, and Amos Ramsey while Stabroek Ballers will depend on the form of Dwayne James, Shamar Welch, Dorwin

Fans are in for a treat as their teams continue to keep their eyes fixed on the top prize of $2 million, second place of $1 million, third place,

$500,000 and fourth place, $200,000. The MVP, highest goal scorer and best goalkeeper will all ride away with a brand-new motorcycle sponsored by the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain. Other sponsors on board are Government of Guyana; Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; ANSA McAL Distribution Inc; Forester’s Concrete; Jai Signs & Designs; HJTV; Star Party Rental; Bakewell; Superbet; Dinars Trading Ltd; The Trophy Stall; Tiger Rental; Colors Boutique and Maggie’s Snackette.

TAs

he Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE) have commenced their preparations for the 2025 Regional Four-Day Tournament, scheduled to begin in late January. Training is currently underway at the Guyana National Stadium, with multiple intense net sessions planned for throughout December.

part of the selection process, trial matches will be held in early January 2025 to finalise the squad.

These matches will allow selectors to evaluate players and assemble the strongest team to represent the nation.

The first three rounds of the tournament will be hosted right here in Guyana at the Guyana National Stadium, providing home-field advantage for the reigning champions, the Guyana Harpy Eagles. The team are focused on maintaining their dominance in the region and securing another championship title.