Guyana Times - Tuesday, November 26, 2024

Bills for improving access to Govt data, estates of deceased persons passed in

National Assembly

16 days of activism against GBV

"United against violence"women lawyers call for action

Violence against women is a scourge that continues to devastate lives, and it is time for decisive action. The Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GAWL) is calling on the nation to rise up and confront this crisis head-on during the 16 Days of Activism campaign. This global initiative, which begins on November 25, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against gender-based violence.

Accoridngo to GAWL, the reality is grim and women, often the most vulnerable members of society, contin-

ue to bear the brunt of violence—usually at the hands of those who should protect and support them: their part-

ners, their relatives, their closest companions.

A release from the agency went on to state that “while it is wrong to generalize all men as perpetrators, statistics paint a shocking picture: violence, particularly domestic violence, is overwhelmingly inflicted by men. This is not just a personal or family issue—it is a public health crisis”.

“In Guyana, this epidemic is all too real. The horrific killings of two women by their partners within the span of just two weeks are tragic reminders of the urgent need for action. The finality of the death of that woman portends the stark consequence of children being left without a mother and another family

losing a family member tragically. 1996, though 28 years ago, feels like yesterday in some ways. With the new law there is greater emphasis on prevention, in educating and encouraging women and persons who are aware of violent situations, to encourage them to seek help. In other words, there must be provision of tangible support at the front – end”.

“Early interventions to prevent escalation of violence are especially critical to safeguard women, and also, children. We urge that more state resources be employed to help victims of violence to be pro-active. Here, the work of the Gender Affairs Bureau which relates to both females and males, is import-

ant. Victims need to be able to easily access information on what help is available, where to seek help, and receive advice on how to protect themselves and to move on. Education is crucial in breaking this cycle of violence. The Ministry of Education and schools across the nation must take immediate action to teach young people the damaging effects of violence and challenge harmful behaviors. The workplace, too, must foster environments of respect, where nonviolence is not optional, but expected”.

GAWL added that the fight against violence also demands accountability from those in power. Political, domestic, and workplace lead-

ers must lead by example, setting a zero-tolerance standard for violence in all its forms. If leaders fail to act decisively, they must face consequences. This is non-negotiable. Guyana cannot afford to be complacent. Every leader, institution, and individual must be held to the highest standard of conduct.

As Guyana joins the rest of the world in observing the 16 Days of Activism movement, GAWL called once more for every citizen to stand up and demand change, highlighting that the violence against women must end, and it is only through collective action that we can create a safer, more just society for all.

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Tuesday, November 26 –00:15h-01:45h and Wednesday, November 27 – 02:00h-03:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Tuesday, November 26 –13:00h-14:30h and Wednesday, November 27 – 14:10h-15:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers are expected in the morning hours, followed by sunny conditions, with mostly clear skies followed by thundery showers at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to South SouthEasterly between 0.89 metre and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 12:35h reaching a maximum height of 2.19 metres.

Low Tide: 06:02h and 18:32h reaching minimum heights of 1.04 metres and 1.03 metres.

Govt seeking over $84B in supplementary funds for GtE Project, $100k cash grant

…funds for housing development, UG student loan-write off also being sought

The Government has approached the National Assembly, seeking its approval for more than $84 billion in supplementary funds for projects that range from the Gas-to-Energy (GtE) Initiative to money for the highly-anticipated $100,000 one-off cash grant initiative.

During Monday’s sitting of the National Assembly, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government presented two financial papers to account for and seek supplementary advances of money. The

must present their valid National Identification Card (ID) or valid passport. According to the Government, photocopies of these documents 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. Registration for the cash grant has, in fact, already started in some areas.

Gas-to-Energy

Meanwhile, anoth-

of pipeline from the Liza field in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where Exxon and its partners are

first paper, financial paper No. 3 of 2024, that was laid by Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, pertains to an advance of $456.8 million made from the contingency fund between November 7 and 22, 2024.

These funds were used for payment of increased security charges in Regions One (Barima/ Waini) and Six (East Berbice/Corentyne), and the Ministry of Education. Additionally, monies were advanced for the Guyana Office for Investment (GOInvest) and the Protected Areas Commission.

The second financial paper, No. 4 of 2024, that was laid pertains to a sum of over $84 billion being sought. According to a statement from the Ministry of Finance on Monday, $30.5 billion from this amount is for the commencement of the $100,000 cash grant initiative.

President Dr Irfaan Ali had announced back in October 2024 that Guyanese 18-years and older will receive the oneoff cash grant. As part of efforts to ensure a robust and transparent process that upholds the integrity of the cash grant initiative, the Government of Guyana has implemented strict measures. These measures include persons having to register, individuals

er $25.3 billion is being sought for the transformative GtE Project. Already, significant progress has been made on the project, which consists of the construction of 225 kilometres

currently producing oil. It features approximately 200 kilometres of a subsea pipeline offshore that would run from Liza Destiny and Liza Unity Floating, Production,

Storage, And Offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek Block to the shore. Upon landing on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD) shore, the pipeline would continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the Liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

In last year’s national budget, the project received a $43.3 billion allocation in addition to the $24.6 billion injected into the start-up of the transformational project. And this year, some $80 billion was allocated to advance the project.

The Guyana Government has envisioned the startup of the GtE Project by 2025, thus realising its commitment to deliver cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable energy to the population… particularly since it will slash electricity costs by half.

Model of the Gas-to-Energy Project

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

Editor: Tusika Martin

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25th anniversary of International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women

As the United Nations marks the 25th anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed’s powerful remarks serve as a sobering reminder of the urgent work that remains to be done to end this pervasive violation of human rights. While the day offers an opportunity to reflect on progress, it also compels us to confront the harsh reality that violence against women and girls continues to be a global crisis, one that remains alarmingly pervasive in both private and public spheres.

Nearly one-third of women worldwide experience some form of violence, whether physical, emotional, or psychological, in their homes, workplaces, communities, and even online. In fact, according to recent reports, 140 women and girls are killed every day by family members, making the home the most dangerous place for many women around the world. This stark statistic is not just a number — it is a personal tragedy for each individual woman or girl, too often hidden by societal stigma, or silenced by fear.

Deputy Secretary-General Mohammed’s remarks underscored the inescapable reality for millions of women who live with the constant threat of violence. These women, often from marginalised groups such as women with disabilities, older women, and migrants or refugees, face compounded risks and barriers to safety. They navigate daily life with trepidation, adjusting their behaviour, their routes, their choices not out of preference, but out of necessity to protect themselves. This routine of fear stifles their ability to thrive in society, and denies them opportunities in education, employment, and public life. As a result, violence against women is not just a personal tragedy, but a societal and economic one as well, with ripple effects that impact communities, families, and entire nations.

The Deputy Secretary-General also reminded us that violence against women is not just a violation of human rights; it is a barrier to progress. Gender-based violence is a significant impediment to the realization of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on gender equality, economic empowerment, education, and peace. As the world grapples with interconnected crises —conflicts, climate change, health emergencies, and economic instability — women and girls are disproportionately affected. From Sudan to Gaza, Myanmar to Ukraine, the brutality of war and the disruption caused by global challenges disproportionately target women, leaving them vulnerable to violence, exploitation and displacement.

Despite these daunting challenges, there have been notable efforts to combat violence against women and girls. The past few decades have seen the adoption of stronger laws, policies, and strategies to address gender-based violence. The UN’s Spotlight Initiative, a partnership between the United Nations and the European Union, has led to the introduction of nearly 550 laws and policies aimed at preventing violence, while providing essential services to millions of women worldwide. The Initiative has demonstrated that meaningful change is possible; showing that when governments, civil society, and international organizations collaborate, progress can be made.

However, as Amina J. Mohammed pointed out, the scale of the problem far outweighs the current level of investment in prevention and support systems. Although there have been some positive strides, violence against women and girls remains disturbingly commonplace, and the resources needed to address the root causes of this violence -- among which are harmful social norms, gender inequality, and discrimination -- are still insufficient. The Deputy Secretary-General’s call to increase funding for comprehensive approaches that include education, prevention and survivor support must be a priority for all governments, international organizations, and civil society groups.

The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, but it is not insurmountable. Ending violence against women and girls requires sustained and collective action; action that engages all parts of society, including men and boys, to challenge the deeply ingrained societal norms that perpetuate violence. It requires a commitment from governments to strengthen legal protections and ensure that justice is accessible to survivors.

In her speech, Deputy Secretary-General Mohammed emphasized the importance of multilateralism and collaboration between countries and actors to achieve lasting change. This is not just a women’s issue, but a global one, and it requires the collective efforts of all people, organizations, and governments.

Reckless escalation of war in Ukraine will cause more suffering for no strategic gain

By Simon JenkinS

This is how big wars start, when small ones go wrong. NATO politicians are deliberately playing with fire along the Ukrainian frontier, as UKmade missiles have been launched into Russia for the first time since the beginning of the conflict. The attack came a day after Kyiv used US-supplied longrange weapons to strike within Russia.

Every military comment on British and US authorisation of missile attacks on Russia has said the same. They are “too little, too late”, and unlikely to affect a war that has increasingly turned to Russia’s advantage. So, why are the attacks happening?

The answer of Britain’s Defence Secretary John Healey is that he wants to “continue doubling down” on Britain’s support for Ukraine, and give a morale boost to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy before Donald Trump takes power in Washington. He clearly thinks the obvious risk involved in the escalation is worthwhile.

The West had been scrupulously careful in treating aid to Ukraine as strictly for its defence. Putin reacted by warning the West that any escalation in that aid to an attack on Russia by

a nuclear-armed power would justify a Russian nuclear response. Then, this week, he approved changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine to declare that an attack from a non-nuclear state, if backed by a nuclear power, would be treated as a joint assault on Russia.

Putin regards Ukraine – its army overwhelmingly sustained by NATO – as just such a state. He also officially redefined “attack on Russia” to cover any attack on Russian territory, or that of its ally Belarus, that poses a “critical threat” to their sovereignty or “territorial integrity”. He is clearly feeling paranoid, as has long been the custom of Russia’s rulers towards incursions on to their soil.

NATO had refused to call Putin’s bluff. Attacks on Crimea and Ukraine’s reckless invasion of Russia’s Kursk region were considered exceptions. Otherwise, the West had agreed that powerful rockets fired deep inside Russia were a step too far.

Besides, Moscow has had ample time to move its supplies to new quarters.

All that this escalation seems certain to provoke is a savage Moscow retaliation against Ukrainian targets, notably energy and other utilities over the course of the winter. There may well be a wild response against

“hybrid” electronic targets in the West, such as cyber-attacks on western infrastructure and utilities.

It might be appropriate to ask how long the people of Ukraine are expected to satisfy the craving for a proxy “victory against Russia” of a succession of western leaders.

All western moves against Russia over the past two years – including the toughest ever economic and political sanctions – have served merely to entrench Moscow’s aggression. They have isolated Putin from the diplomatic pressures that customarily bring these disputes to a settlement, as with the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War. They have encouraged him to savage his internal critics and draw sympathy and material support from China, India, Iran and North Korea. At a huge cost to the global economy, western sanctions have secured a new eastern trading bloc to aid Putin.

Was all this not forecasted by the massed ranks of think-tank Kremlinologists, or is British and US foreign policy brain dead?

Putin’s criterion for a nuclear response is impossible to imagine. The deployment of battlefield nuclear weapons is at least possible, though what tactical advantage it might yield is awful

to envisage. He is an isolated dictator who is devoid of scruples and is subject to unpredictable moods. There is also concern among western agencies at his state of mind. There can be no conceivable argument for escalating his paranoia just now, for no strategic gain.

Putin has failed in his bid to eradicate the democratic regime in Kyiv. He has succeeded, as in the Caucasus, in establishing a buffer statelet on his border. It must be the moment for compromise in the cause of peace. At present, there is no evidence of any individual or institution capable of opening up such an opportunity: not the UN, or NATO, or any other international body.

If any lesson can be drawn from 80 years of East-West confrontation, it is that western guardians of freedom, democracy and peace have a special duty to behave responsibly in a crisis. Although belligerence, machismo, risk-taking and bluff-calling are qualities that may go down well with military lobbies and tabloid media, we cannot risk them, given the current occupant of the Kremlin. Yet they are exactly what Britain’s Government seems eager to do. (The Guardian)

(Simon Jenkins is a Guardian columnist)

The 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities opened in Sanya on November 22. Some 7,000 athletes, representing China's 56 ethnic groups, will compete in 18 types of sports, including traditional sports such as swinging, crossbow shooting, single-bamboo drifting, and even coconut tree climbing (Xinhua photo)

$100M in waterfront development for Linden

The Government has allocated $100 million for waterfront development in Linden, Region Ten to enhance transportation networks, essential services, and aesthetics contributing to the overall economic growth of the mining town.

Eight contractors hailing from Linden signed contracts for the execution of these works at the Watooka Guest House on Friday.

First-time contractor, Chancey Caleb expressed her satisfaction with the Government’s inclusive approach in encouraging female contractors to participate in what is considered a male-dominated field.

She also pointed out the benefits the initiative has on the lives of both contractors and residents.

“This is great for the people of Linden and it is also great because it enables persons who are self-employed in works that they are doing so they can have a better life,”

Caleb told the Department of Public Information (DPI).

Another female contractor, Kady Sears pointed out that it is a great beautifying initiative for Lindeners and more importantly, tourists. “It is a nice project all the way round to make Linden look good because, in

Contractors signing contracts

my opinion, the river here in Linden is somewhat of an attraction to persons coming here,” she said.

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips who oversaw the signing, urged contractors to put their best foot forward since they are delivering a public good for their region.

“This must be the best job that you would have done for yourself and for your community so be effective and efficient at the same time,” the Prime Minister expressed. He also pointed out that the community-based initiative will not

only enhance Linden but also create employment opportunities and ensure the economic benefits stay within the community.

Additionally, Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill revealed that only eight of the fifteen contractors were successful in the competitive bidding process. Despite this, he assured that the remaining contractors would still be engaged to execute smaller projects contributing to the waterfront’s enhancement.

Coupled with the upcoming waterfront developments, the Minister disclosed that access will be provided to the hospital from the riverside.

This is a result of a request made by the Toshaos of Malali and Muritaro following the recently concluded National Toshaos Conference.

“In a couple of days that contract will be awarded,” Edghill announced.

Govt remains committed to fixing broken power system

Dear Editor,

It is astonishing, though not entirely surprising, that David Patterson, who presided over the catastrophic mismanagement of Guyana’s power sector in the APNU+AFC Administration, now seeks to pontificate on the state of electricity in the country.

It is a disaster that Patterson himself engineered with his inept leadership and

utter disregard for the future of this country. Patterson’s tenure as minister was marked by a total abandonment of responsibility, with no meaningful capital investment in the sector from 2015 to 2020. It was an appalling display of neglect, reckless incompetence, and blatant corruption.

The Government of Guyana has been crystal clear

with the public about the inherited disaster in the power sector. The generating sets, many of which are outdated relics, stand as a testament to his failure to modernise and expand the sector, even as demand for electricity increased exponentially due to the country’s economic growth, which he and his administration were incapable of anticipating or accommodating, given the

It’s the last dance!

Dear Editor, Popular dancer and choreographer Dheeraj Guyaram delivered a glittering and memorable performance last night (Nov 23rd) at the Caribbean Fest Lounge on Rockaway Blvd and 116th St, South Ozone Park, Queens, NYC. Dheeraj’s India-based gurus, Birju Maharaj, Tirath and Reva Armani, would have been exceptionally proud of his sparkling performance.

Dheeraj’s performance was backed up by his Ghungaroo dancers, as well as by prominent singers Terry Gajraj, Son Son, Farouk the Farishman, Saman, Sherwin Mathura, and DJ Logic and DJ Fess. The occasion was to commemorate Dheeraj’s 50th anniversary as a multi-talented dancer (who excels in Kathak, odissi and folkdance forms), and he wanted to crown this glorious journey with “The Last Dance.” His finesse, agility, and immersion in his craft were as great as ever, and he never showed any sign of faltering in his remarkable role.

Dheeraj’s daughter Nikita joined him in performing two beautiful and touching dances. Dheeraj’s dance to Manna Dey’s classic, “Laaga Chunarie mey daag,” was done with exquisite grace, elegance and great artistry. Not only was

the audience mesmerized, but became more animated with his body’s symmetrical movements during this dance. Members of the audience unhesitatingly asked him not to quit dancing, but to continue to share his exceptional gift as a cultural icon for many more years to come.

Dheeraj has performed before many Heads of States, and also before Queen Elizabeth II and Nelson Mandela of South Africa. He has been honoured with scores of citations, trophies, and plaques. During the programme last night, he received a powerful proclamation from NYS Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar. Although Mayor Eric Adams could not make it to the event, he sent a congratulatory message with a staff member. Mayor Adams has a strong connection with the Guyanese diaspora, and so does Assemblywoman Rajkumar.

The programme was emceed by popular radio host Shamella Karim. Based on last night’s response to Dheeraj’s performance, we believe he would reconsider his decision to retire from professional dancing. But he did caution that such a stellar presentation demands great sacrifice, challenges, rehearsal time, and resources.

We applaud Dave West

Indian Imports, Golden Crown, Vinty, Metro Auto Body Shop, Caribbean Fest, and Island Zone Radio for supporting this awesome project. The Guyanese community in the diaspora as well as in Guyana owes Dheeraj Guyaram an immense debt of gratitude for his immeasurable contribution to cultural revival and continuity in Guyana and the Guyana diaspora. He is one of Guyana’s prized cultural ambassadors.

Sincerely,

Dr Tara Singh

expansion of the petroleum sector.

Manufacturing is booming, new hotels are being constructed, businesses are expanding, and more power is being demanded. Government’s transformative Gas-to-Energy project, which Patterson’s administration could never have executed, is already well underway, with pipelines and other critical components visibly taking shape, providing tangible proof of the PPP/C Government’s commitment to resolving Guyana’s energy woes. This project will bring clean, reliable and affordable energy to the people of Guyana, a reality far removed from the chaos and darkness Patterson left in his wake.

Not satisfied with his record of abysmal failure in the power sector, Patterson attempts to drag civic organisations into his baseless narrative. Between 2020 and 2024, Prime Minister Hon. Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Anthony Phillips and I have met with the leadership of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), and the

Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA) to provide detailed updates on the challenges we face and the solutions we are implementing. These organisations, unlike Patterson, understand the scale of the task at hand, and have expressed their support for the Government’s forward-thinking, solution-oriented approach to rebuilding what was destroyed under the APNU+AFC’s disastrous reign. Patterson’s laughable claim that the private sector, the GCCI, and other civic organisations are “scared” to call out the Government reeks of desperation and delusion.

Guyanese the world over are only too well aware that the APNU+AFC, in which Patterson was a minister, pre-

sided over one of the most corrupt and ineffective governments this country has ever seen. Instead of pointing fingers, Patterson should answer for the glaring incompetence, rampant corruption, and utter disregard for Guyana’s development that defined his time in office. The PPP/C Administration remains committed to fixing the broken power system left behind by the APNU/AFC, by laying a strong foundation for a more reliable supply of electricity for all Guyanese.

Sincerely, Deodat Indar Minister within Public Works Ministry

Page Foundation

LZero Property, Equality Properties

earning these properties will make your mathematics work easier.

Did you ever try to multiply by 0? The answer is 0.

Zero property of multiplication: Any number x 0 = 0.

Remember that an equation is a mathematical statement that two things are equal. 4 + 2 = 1 + 5

Equality Property of Addition: If you add a number on one side of an equation, you must add the same number on the other side of the equation. Both sides will then still be equal. (4 + 2) + 6 = (1 + 5) + 6

Equality Property of Subtraction: If you subtract

a number on one side of an equation, you must subtract the same number on the other side of the equation. Both sides will then still be equal. (4 + 2) – 2 = (1 + 5) – 2

Equality Property of Multiplication: If you multiply one side of an equation by a number, you must multiply the other side of the equation by the same number. Both sides will then still be equal. (4 + 2) x 8 = (1 + 5) x 8

Equality Property of Division: If you divide one side of an equation by a number, you must divide the other side of the equation by the same number. Both sides will then still be equal. But you never divide by 0. (4 + 2) ÷ 9 = (1 + 5÷ 9

Exercises: Identify the property

Answer yes or no

If 5 + 3 = 4 + 4 then does 4 ( 5 + 3) = 4 ( 4 + 4)? If 5 x 8 = 4 x 10 then does ((5 x 8))/4= ((4 x 10))/4 ?

Mini pencil puppet theatre

photograph of

1. Break the side seam of the cereal box and open it flat.

2. Paint the box however you would like!

3. Cut a square opening in both the front and back of the box (making sure both squares are the same size for the stage). Remove the squares, then tape the box closed again.

4. Using colourful paper, draw curtains and decorate them with stickers.

5. Tape the curtains over one of the square openings of the cereal box. Congratulations, your theatre is finished!

Now you can use your puppet! Once you've printed out the photo, cut out the face. Set the face aside.

7. Draw your body and an outfit on coloured paper to go with your cut-out face. Cut out the body and tape your face and body together.

8. Tape your figure to a pencil.

9. Now you are finished and you are ready to put on a puppet show! Play some music, write a script and put on a performance for your friends and family. (Caroline Gravino Urdaneta, pbs.org)

By GeorGe Gordon Byron

I

She walks in beauty, like the night Of cloudless climes and starry skies; And all that’s best of dark and bright Meet in her aspect and her eyes: Thus mellowed to that tender light Which heaven to gaudy day denies.

II

One shade the more, one ray the less, Had half impaired the nameless grace Which waves in every raven tress, Or softly lightens o’er her face; Where thoughts serenely sweet express How pure, how dear their dwelling place.

III

And on that cheek, and o’er that brow, So soft, so calm, yet eloquent, The smiles that win, the tints that glow, But tell of days in goodness spent, A mind at peace with all below, A heart whose love is innocent!

WORD SEARCH:

6.

Making tiny puppets is a fantastic craft project for kids of all ages! You can easily make them (and a tiny theatre too) with a few simple materials.

Bills for improving access to Govt data, estates of deceased persons passed in National Assembly

…Opposition support bills, but urge widespread sensitisation campaign

Government on Monday passed two bills that set out to improve access to Government data and the estates of deceased persons by their loved ones. Both bills have received bipartisan support from members of the parliamentary Opposition.

The first piece of legislation passed was the Open Data Bill No. 13 of 2024, which aims to enhance access to data held by public authorities, including ministries, public boards, divisions, and commissions.

It requires that public authorities maintain an electronic data registry containing all data assets created, collected, under the control or direction of, or maintained by that public authority.

In his presentation to the National Assembly on Monday, it was explained by Prime Minister Brigadier (retired) Mark Phillips that the Bill would complement the Data Protection Act and the Digital Identity Card Act, which have both been

passed last year.

“This bill will attract investment and enable our citizens to participate more fully in the digital economy. The passage of this bill reflects our determination to harness the power of data to drive national development and improve the lives of all Guyanese,” Phillips has said.

“One of the more exciting aspects of this bill is its potential to foster collaboration and innovation. Clause 12 encourages public authorities to engage with citizens, researchers and private sector entities, enabling the co-creation of solutions to societal challenges using public data,” he added.

According to Attorney General Anil Nandlall, the passage of the Bill would be a fulfillment of President Dr Irfaan Ali’s own vision of making Government more accessible to the general public.

“This will help the Ministry of Agriculture to make prudent decisions. It will help our farmers in

terms of looking at weather patterns and determining what crops to plant, etc. It will allow our transportation sector to look at passenger trends,” Nandlall said.

Similarly, amendments have been passed to the Deceased Persons Estate Administration Act, allowing the loved ones of deceased persons to have better access to their estates. The bill was robustly supported by the Government side of the house, with PPP/C Member of Parliament Dharamkumar Seeraj giving personal testimony to the importance of the bill, since he had only recently taken on the responsibility of power of attorney for a family member’s deceased spouse.

The bill also received support from Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., who noted the massive impact the bill is likely to have in lifting the financial burden from families in terms of needing to find legal fees in addition

Govt seeking over $84B...

Housing & Education

Under the Ministry of Public Works, $138 million was sought for the Demerara River Bridge. And with the Government looking to complete a number of new and improved regional hospitals, a sum of $4.5 billion was also sought for the Ministry of Health.

The Ministry of Finance explained in their statement that this money is for advancing construction of the six regional hospitals in Lima, De Kinderen, Diamond, Enmore, Bath and No. 75 Village. Additionally, the money will be used to initiate works on regional hospitals at Lethem, Moruca and Kato. Further, $3.6 billion is being sought to support the provision of drugs and medical supplies.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Housing and Water sought $6.5 billion for its housing development infrastructure drive. Under the Ministry of Education, approval was also sought for an amount of $1.2 billion to support the

operations of the University of Guyana.

“It would be recalled that, also in October, His Excellency President Irfaan Ali announced that starting January 2025, tuition fees will be completely abolished at the University of Guyana (UG),” the Ministry of Finance reminded in their statement.

Current funds were also sought all ten administrative regions, with region 10 accounting for the largest provision at $134.3 million for additional security charges. According to the Finance Minister in his presentation, these papers will be debated in the National Assembly on Wednesday, November 27, after the next sitting gets underway.

“In relation to the aforementioned financial papers, that is to Say Financial Papers Three and Four of 2024, Mr Speaker I would like to name Wednesday, November 27 as the date for the said papers to be considered,” Singh said.

The last time supplemen-

tary financing was sought from the National Assembly was in August 2024, when Financial Papers Numbers One and Two were presented during the 84th sitting of the 12th Parliament.

Some $16 billion was sought by the Government for the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), specifically $4 billion from Financial Paper one and a $12 billion Supplementary request in Financial Paper two. In addition, the administration had sought $1.1 billion for additional resources to support electricity companies in Linden, Lethem, Mabaruma and Matthew’s Ridge.

Further, the sum of $9.5 billion was requested for Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). In the infrastructure sector, an additional $904 million was sought for the construction and rehabilitation of hinterland roads and $600 million for the completion of infrastructure for the critical supply of water to these farflung communities were also requested. (G3)

to the funeral costs to settle a deceased person’s estate.

“This bill comes from the grassroots of all of our immediate and direct engagements with people. In situations where the death is unexpected, especially when the other person is in a vulnerable situation, they must be able to have access to the means to support themselves in the interim if, for example, they have to get letters of administration or a probate,” Ramson said.

Meanwhile, the Attorney General, in highlighting the significance of the amendment, has said that since, under the current law, a person’s assets become part of their estate when they die, this necessitates a legal process to distribute those as-

sets; and in case a will is left, the executor must apply for probate.

“Our law, prior to 2022, provided that without a letter of administration or probate, one of the authorized persons could have gone to a bank where the deceased had an account and had money in it, but could have only withdrawn $250.

When this act was passed nearly 100 years ago, $250 was a substantial sum of money. This amendment is simply intended to expand the category of places to as wide as possible, moving it from the narrow focus of a bank account to anywhere else,” Nandlall detailed.

Opposition Member of Parliament Annette Ferguson, while agreeing

with the bill in principle, urged that a sensitization campaign be done to ensure the content of the bill could be heard and understood by the masses. And while Nandlall noted that persons in farflung areas are more privy to the news than Ferguson has given them credit for, he acknowledged that more could be done. Ultimately, both bills were passed by the National Assembly.

A third bill was meanwhile read for the first time, that one being the International Measures for the Protection of Children (Hague Convention) Bill of 2024. This bill was read by the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud.

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

Opposition MP Annette Ferguson

Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips

Car fraud allegation

Taxi service owner released on $20.4M bail

Omeca Primo, owner of Primo’s Imports and Taxi Service, was placed on $20.4 million bail on Monday after appearing before Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. Primo, is accused of orchestrating a multimillion-dollar fraud scheme spanning multiple regions in Guyana. She now faces 68 charges.

Represented by her attorney Everton Singh-Lammy, Primo’s case remains indictable, with no plea entered as of yet. Her attorney successfully argued for bail, citing her constitutional rights and accusing the prosecution of being unprepared to move the case forward. According to the defence, delays in disclosure and procedural inefficiencies have hindered the prosecution’s progress, making the prolonged denial of bail unjustifiable.

This ruling marks a significant shift in the legal battle. At a prior hearing on November 13, the prosecution, led by Prosecutor Melvin Scott, had vigorously objected to bail. Scott highlighted Primo’s history of evasion, revealing that she had gone into hiding for weeks before being apprehended through a police sting operation.

“The accused has repeatedly changed her phone number, business location, and even rebranded her enterprise to avoid detection, complicating the investigation,” Scott told the court at the time. He further argued that granting bail could jeopardise public confidence

in the justice system and pose risks to victims, some of whom have reported intimidation.

Primo is accused of collecting over $51.57 million from customers under false pretences, promising vehicle deliveries that never materialised. Victims hail from across Regions Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); Four (Demerara-Mahaica); Five (Mahaica-Berbice); Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice),

with many alleging significant financial losses.

During Monday’s proceedings, it was revealed that the case remains complex, with more charges expected to emerge as the investigation unfolds.

The Criminal Investigation Department’s (CID) Anti-Fraud Unit has called for additional victims to come forward, believing the scale of the alleged fraud could be even larger than currently documented. (G9)

Venezuelan woman slapped with 3 TIP charges on $1M bail

AVenezuelan woman accused of human trafficking was granted $1 million bail after a complex series of court proceedings. Andreina Jimenez, 27, now faces three counts of Trafficking in Persons and one count of Unlawful Withholding of Identification Documents under the Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act, No. 7 of 2023. Among the victims is a 14-year-old girl.

According to the charges, the first two trafficking offences allegedly occurred between August 1 and August 21, 2024. The third charge covers the same timeframe, while the fourth charge, involving the 14-year-old victim, allegedly occurred between

Charged: Andreina Jimenez being escorted by a police officer after her court appearance

May 1 and August 1, 2024.

Jimenez, represented by attorney Siand Dhurjon, appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court #5.

This was the woman’s second appearance in court, just a week after she was accused and charged with human trafficking. However, she was freed due to procedural errors in the initial charges. Days later she was informed that she was wanted by authorities, and voluntarily presented herself to the police, only to be recharged.

Dhurjon, her lawyer argued that Jimenez was not informed directly by the police that she was wanted and was held in custody for more than 72 hours, in violation of legal standards, and highlighted her status as a resident in Guyana for the past four years. He also mentioned her responsibilities as a mother to a 10-year-old son while requesting reasonable bail of $150,000 per charge.

Getting ready…

(politically)?

The surest sign that elections are in the air is folks floating trial balloons about new parties being launched. This is as fine a Guyanese tradition as Black Cake for Christmas or 7-curry for weddings!! Not that we can’t have Black Cake for birthdays or 7-Curry for visiting PMs!!

Remember the United Farmers and Workers Party (USWP) launched by Daniel Prabhudas Debidin for the 1953 elections?? He left the most indelible political slogan in the history of Guyana, which has been hauled out in every election since: APAN JAAT – vote fuh yuh own!!! In that year, for the first time, every adult who was not a legal moron or in jail could have voted. In addition to the PPP, there was also the United Democratic Party (UDP) launched by John Carter, head of the League of Coloured People (LCP), who mobilized to keep out the riffraff that had just been given the franchise!! Raphael ain’t the first!!

Anyhow, a couple of months ago, the Stabber announced on their front page that there’d be the imminent launching of a new GUARD – this time, named “Guyana United for Accountability and Resources Development”!! This, of course, was a shameless plagiarism of the name of the Civic group that had made such a big splash before the 1992 elections!! The presence of the rum magnate Yesu Persaudalong with Bauxite Exec Sam Hinds and a host of bigwigs on the platform - ensured they’d be taken seriously. Sam Hinds, as we know, was chosen by Cheddi as his PM candidate, and this had probably motivated many of the wannabees, who’ve subsequently thrown their hats in the ring!!

The new GUARD – which claim they’d be “Promoting Good Governance, Guarding the Constitution and Securing Guyana’s natural resources” – however, hasn’t been heard from since!! It would appear that someone – or something – has popped their trial balloon. There have also been persistent claims that the owner of the Muckraker paper’s gonna jump into the ring. He’s been shadow-boxing from the sidelines quite animatedly over the last few years as a single-issue candidate – getting mo’ oil money. No one takes him seriously, however; and it’s felt that his shrunken newspaper sales might be forcing him to hedge his bets!!

But, just this morning, your Eyewitness read that the fella from the AFC - who’d voted with the PPP on their No Confidence Motion - is now about to launch his own party! As Tom Wolfe wrote back in the day, you can’t ever really go back home!! So, what will be he “fighting” for?? Believe it or not – after he, as a LAWYER, got a $50M contract for building roads – he’s livid that some erstwhile members of the PNC have gotten $15M ones!!

2025’s gonna be a doozy!!

…for local milk

Originally, farmers on the coast used to supply a pasteurizing milk plant in GT with milk, picked up daily along our public road. Then Burnham decided he’d have milk production centralised – following the Russians’ dekulakization? – at a 4000-acre farm at Moblissa on the Linden Highway. All it accomplished was destroying the coastal milk production – even as Moblissa collapsed!! Part of the problem was that the grass was in very sandy soils, and as the cattle grazed, they ingested sand with the grass!! Burnham had to ruminate on that!!!

Well, the liquor producer DDL has decided to return to Moblissa to supply Guyana with the more salubrious drink –milk!! But announced the specially imported US cows won’t be grazing out in the open range as of yore - but be fed in two massive 80,000 sq ft pens. Well, why not?? If Abu Dhabi can do this in their desert, why can’t we in our tropical savannahs??

Sadly, we won’t be able to hire our local cowboys!!

…for Indian investment?

So, with Modi back in India and their largest investor in US hot water for alleged violations of their SEC rules –bribing Indian Government officials and not reporting it!! –are we gonna get a piece of the action??

Charged: Omeca Primo

Region 3 records highest domestic violence cases so far for 2024

Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr

Justice Centre

Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), has recorded the highest number of reported domestic violence cases so far this year, according to the latest statistics released by the Human Services and Social Security Ministry.

Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud on Monday during

the commissioning of the Vergenoegen Hope and Justice Centre explained that the alarming figures highlight an urgent need for enhanced interventions and community engagement to combat this growing crisis.

“This is a thoughtful institution; I say that because we are all very con-

cerned of the spate of violent acts leading to feminicide and killing of women that continue to exist in our country. To give you an idea of what is happening, we see cases of domestic violence numbering 11 from January to September 2024. 11 of those cases will add a total of 28 cases where we have feminicides

Mathematics intervention campaign expanded to Region 10

The Education Ministry’s Mathematics Intervention Campaign continues its transformative journey across the nation, reaching Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) over the weekend.

The initiative aims to enhance mathematics performance and foster a culture of academic excellence in schools.

Chief Education Officer, Saddam Hussain, visited Wisburg Secondary School, where he applauded the academic achievements of the school and encouraged students to uphold and build upon this level of excellence.

Speaking to the students and staff, Hussain underscored the significance of the Mathematics Intervention Campaign and its role in ensuring that students are equipped with the skills necessary for academic and per-

sonal success.

In a release from the ministry, it was stated that simultaneously, Deputy Chief Education Officer (Administration), Tiffany Harvey, engaged with students and educators at both Christianburg Secondary School and Mackenzie High School. During her visits, Harvey reiterated the ministry’s commitment to supporting schools in Region Ten and encouraged stu-

dents to take full advantage of the resources provided under the campaign.

At Linden Foundation Secondary School, Assistant Chief Education Officer, Ameer Ali, met with students and teachers to further emphasize the importance of mathematics education. He highlighted the Ministry’s efforts to address challenges in the subject and commended the school for its dedication to improving outcomes.

at 4 and the remainder as interpersonal violent type cases.”

“When we looked at the disaggregation of those numbers and when we looked at where these things we happening your region topped the list. We must ensure that your region is never on the list,” the minister said.

Dr Persaud also revealed that for 2024 so far, the violence-based 914 tollfree hotline has received some 6000 reports, all of which were addressed appropriately.

Of the 6000 cases, 182 were related to domestic violence and 292 were related to child abuse cases.

Persaud explained that with technology advancing efforts are currently being made to launch a WhatsApp feature, where persons will be able to file

“At the end of this function I want to see more reports coming in. When we see reports we shouldn’t be alarmed because it means that people have confidence in what you’re doing to support them. It also brings home the gravity of the situation as it exists but the point, I want to make is that the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Human Services, the Ministry of Legal Affairs, the Ministry of Home Affairs we are all combining to target this,” she added.

Meanwhile, world leaders and civil society representatives came together on Monday in New York (United States of America)

to mark the 25th anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls. The gathering served as a moment of reflection and a call to action to address the pervasive violation of human rights that affects millions of women and girls worldwide.

In her address to those gathered, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina J. Mohammed emphasized that there are victims of domestic abuse represent more than just statistics— they are real lives impacted by fear, trauma, and societal stigma.

"Nearly one-third of women globally experience violence at home, in the workplace, online, and in politics," a key speaker noted. "Every day, 140 women and girls are killed by members of their own families, making the home the most dangerous place for millions… It is my personal conviction that the safe house we often take victims to should actually be her home, while the perpetrator is the one removed," they asserted.

Despite the grim realities, progress was celebrated. Over the last five years, significant advances have been made, including the implementation of nearly 550 laws and policies addressing violence against women and girls. Initiatives like the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative have proven that change is possible.

This program alone has delivered essential services to three million women and engaged eight million young people in gender equality programs, showcasing that collective action yields measurable results.

However, the Deputy Secretary-General stressed that these efforts are insufficient in scale, noting that investments in prevention are still fall far short of addressing the root causes of violence.

"It is not only a grave violation of human rights; it is a fundamental barrier to human progress," the she declared, linking the issue to broader crises like conflict, climate change, and economic instability.

On this point, she called for an increase in funding for prevention and support systems, highlighting the need to change social norms that perpetuate violence and ensure legal protection for all women and girls.

"As threats to the rights and safety of women and girls grow, multilateral collaboration is needed more than ever," they said. "Let us strive for a world where dignity and safety are guaranteed for all, not as a privilege but as a fundamental right."

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls serves as a rallying cry for humanity to stand united against this global scourge, reaffirming the commitment to protect and uplift women and girls everywhere.

Vindhya Persaud addressing gathering at Vergenoegen Hope and

Justice cannot only be about punishment, must include restoration – PM

…as 2nd Hope and Justice Centre is opened

In a significant step toward providing comprehensive support for victims of violence and abuse, the Government on Monday inaugurated its second Hope and Justice Centre.

Located in Vergenoegen, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), this state-of-the-art facility reflects a collaborative effort between the Attorney General’s Chambers and Legal Affairs Ministry, and the Human Services and Social Security Ministry.

While the Centre aims to provide a safe haven and transformative resources for victims of family violence, interpersonal abuse, sexual violence, human trafficking, and child abuse, Prime Minister Mark Phillips during the commissioning highlighted that “justice can’t simply be about punishment; it must be about restoration”.

On this point, PM explained that the facility will ensure that victims are not only protected but also empowered to rebuild their lives.

victims receive help as a recompense for the violence or harm they have endured. It is the least we can do to begin repairing what has been broken”.

“We want every individual who passes through these centers to emerge stronger, more self-reliant and more

as a milestone in bridging gaps in the justice system and addressing the needs of vulnerable groups.

The AG noted that the Centre embodies Government’s vision for a holistic approach to justice and plans to replica its model across the Caribbean is

go to stay for a few days until the legal steps are taken. And that is why this center is so unique”.

being explored.

“Hope is more than a warm sentiment; it is ac-

Further, he noted that its services go beyond being a place of refuge but one of transformation, offering victims access to training programs geared toward skills development and providing them with the tools to create new beginnings.

tive force. It involves emotional support that rebuilds confidence, counselling that mends the mind and services that provide practical relief via temporary shelter, legal aid or access to healthcare. Justice reform therefore must ensure that

capable of facing the world, empowerment is the ultimate goal of justice,” PM said.

The Centre also features robust mechanisms to protect victims from perpetrators, ensuring their safety and dignity remain uncompromised.

This initiative forms part of the Government’s broader Support for the Criminal Justice Programme, funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

Attorney General Anil Nandlall lauded the project

“This center is intended to provide a platform and a forum where such a person can go and find a number of services available. You come to this center, there will be a doctor, policeman to take your report, you’re going to have a social worker who will give counselling and administer therapy, you’re going to have a lawyer who will give you legal advice and will help you full up the forms to go to the magistrates’ court. And you will have a place if you don’t have anywhere to

“The IDB is here they are looking at this model to replica it across the region, because Guyana is not insular or singular in the problems we are facing, they are Caribbean problems,” Nandlall said.

The Hope and Justice Centre in Region Three follows the establishment of the first facility at Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, which has already impacted numerous lives.

Back in March, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) donated a range of essential tools such as laptops, desktops, audio speakers, and tablets to support the fight against GenderBased Violence (GBV). (G1)

Venezuelan woman slapped...

However, the prosecution opposed the request, asserting that Jimenez was a flight risk. They noted discrepancies in her stated address, claiming she provided the Red Dragon nightclub as her location, which raised doubts about her fixed place of residence.

Prosecutors also alleged that Jimenez directly facilitated the trafficking operations by collecting payments

from clients and coordinating encounters with the victims, all of whom reportedly lived at the same location.

The prosecution also stated that a wanted bulletin was issued for Jimenez, hence, why she turned herself in to the police.

Magistrate McGusty rebuked the prosecution for making claims without sufficient proof, including the lack of evidence of a want-

ed bulletin. Nonetheless, Jimenez was granted bail set at $1 million in total, with conditions attached. She must surrender her passport, report to the Major Crimes Unit in Georgetown every second and fourth Friday of the month, and have no contact with the victims. The case has been adjourned to December 16.

The Hope and Justice Centre at Vergenoegen, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara)

A section of the gathering at the launching of the centre on Monday

Prime Minister Mark Phillips, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud, and IDB’s chief of operations to Guyana, Iván-Alonzo Gaviria, being given a tour of the centre

A children’s area in the centre

Berbice brutal stabbing

Victim’s 5-year-old son traumatised after witnessing attack on mom – grandmother

…soldier to be charged today

The West Berbice (WCB), Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) woman, who was stabbed and chopped by her fiancée on Friday and taken to hos-

pital in a critical condition is now stable.

Police confirmed on Monday that 23-year-old Leticia Reynolds was listed as stable by the medical institution.

Reports are that on Friday evening the soldier, Philon Edwards, went home at around 17:50h and accused Reynolds of permitting her son’s father to visit during his absence. She acknowledged the visit but told him that there was no interaction between her and him.

In a release the police said the corporal became furious and grabbed a knife from the kitchen, and held it to her neck, he then allegedly instructed her son to leave the premises.

The soldier then proceeded to stab Reynolds multiple times on the left side of her face, below her left eye, on

her finger, and in her right abdomen. Fearing for her life, she attempted to evade him by running around the house.

The angered man then

Repeat offender jailed for 2 years for theft of student’s electronics

Krishna Dindial, a 41-year-old resident of Good Fortune, West Bank Demerara (WBD), has been sentenced to 24 months in prison after pleading guilty to stealing an Apple iPhone and a Lenovo laptop valued at over $500,000.

The ruling was handed down by Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Monday, following Dindial’s third appearance in court for similar offences in as many years.

The theft took place on November 20, at Camp and Thomas Lands, Georgetown. According to police reports, the victim, a student at Queen’s College, had placed his haversack on the school’s pavilion while playing cricket.

The bag, which contained his phone and laptop, was taken during the game. The student discovered the theft shortly after and used a tracking device to locate his phone. The stolen items were traced to a residence in Good Fortune, WBD, linked to Dindial’s family.

Police later recovered the items after Dindial admitted to taking the bag and returned the belongings to the victim. In court, Dindial explained that he had been cleaning the grounds at the time and claimed he stumbled upon the bag.

“I found the bag while cleaning and took it home,” he told the Magistrate. However, the prosecution dismissed his explanation, arguing that his behaviour reflected deliberate intent to steal.

Charged: Krishna Dindial

The prosecution strongly objected to bail, citing Dindial’s history as a repeat offender and the seriousness of the crime. They emphasised that Dindial had a pattern of committing larceny and that allowing him bail posed a risk. The prosecution further argued that while the items were recovered, Dindial’s repeated offences demonstrated his disregard for the law and made leniency inappropriate.

In 2022, Dindial had been convicted of a similar

offence and served a oneyear prison sentence. In 2023, he was fined $80,000 for another larceny charge, which he paid to avoid imprisonment. The Magistrate stated that Dindial’s pattern of committing theft each year demonstrated a lack of rehabilitation and respect for the law.

He was sentenced to two years in prison as per Section 164 of the Criminal Offences Act, Chapter 8:01. (G9)

picked up a cutlass from the kitchen and inflicted a chop wound to the woman’s neck, resulting in significant bleeding before fleeing the scene.

The injured woman’s mother, Carolyn Carter said there were six wounds to her daughter’s body including a stab wound under her arm, one to the abdomen and one above her left eye, which received seven sutures.

Carter, who lived in a separate apartment said the soldier and her daughter had a wonderful relationship.

“They were living very

loving. On Friday she went and buy ration [groceries]; he go and collect the ration and bring it home and they were so cool inside...”

While the police reported that the soldier, who eventually turned himself in, was angered by the visit of the father of his fiancée’s son, the injured woman’s mother said there were no indications to prove that he was upset over the visit.

“I am grateful to God that she is still alive today. Her son is left traumatised; he is not eating not drinking... He was there when his step-father was attack-

ing his mother and he was begging him not to kill his mother and the stepfather sent him away and he ran and bumped over the fence and called the neighbour,” she explained. Meanwhile, the soldier who walked into the Weldaad Police Station identified himself as a Corporal of the Guyana Defense Force gave his name as Philon Edwards, and admitted that he had wounded the Reynolds.

He is expected to appear in court today on an attempted murder charge.

(G4)

Pensioner dies in accident near Harbour Bridge

An accident claimed the life of 78-year-old Sheik Hassan early Monday morning. The incident occurred around 06:19h on the western carriageway of the Peters Hall public road, near the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

The accident involved motor lorry, GAC 6742, driven by a 32-year-old of Annandale, East Coast Demerara (ECD). According to the police, the lorry was traveling north along the Peters Hall Road when the pedestrian attempted to cross from west to east in front of the moving vehicle.

At the time of the incident, police ranks were directing traffic in the area, allowing northbound vehicles to proceed. Despite this, Hassan reportedly stepped onto the roadway and into the path of the lorry. The vehicle’s front collided with him, causing him to fall onto the road. Tragically, the lorry rolled over the pedestrian, crushing his head.

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) from the Ambulance Service, were called to the scene and pro-

nounced Hassan dead at the scene.

Police have since said that the driver of the lorry is in custody assisting with the investigation.

Only last week, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced a series of sweeping measures for errant road users including the suspension of drivers’ licences after three speeding tickets, especially for truck drivers and additional body cameras for traffic ranks, among others.

Meanwhile, on Sunday in its missive, the Private Sector Commission said it

recognises that the recklessness and dangerous driving are caused by individually licensed drivers, combined with a lack of adequate enforcement and accountability. On this note, the Commission urged all stakeholders to take immediate action to address this dire situation and proposes a number of recommendations for urgent implementation.

Following president’s stern warnings last week, the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Traffic Department has embarked on an aggressive enforcement exercise.

Injured: 23-year-old Leticia Reynolds

To be charged today: Philon Edwards

DDL dairy farm to utilise modern farming methods

…as company aims to be competitive in local, regional markets

Operations at the new Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), stateof-the-art US$20 million dairy farm the, first of its kind in the Caribbean will be centered around the use of modern technology and farming practices. The use of these practices is part of a strategic move to ensure the facility is both resilient and efficient as DDL aligns itself to be a key supplier in the local and regional dairy market.

Speaking to members of the media during a tour of the site on Sunday, DDL Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Komal Samaroo noted that science and technology will be the backbone of the project. Once completed, he highlighted that the facility will take the spotlight as one of the most advanced and efficient dairy farms in Guyana and the Caribbean.

“This project is built on the basis of quality and competitiveness; hence we are using science and technology to make this the most efficient dairy farm, certainly in Guyana and I believe this region.”

Providing an insight on

some of the features the farm will have once fully completed, was DDL’s Project Manager of the Administrative Division, Darrell Manickchand. He highlighted that the dairy farm will be equipped with two cow sheds. These sheds, he noted will provide shelter for the cows and also reduce their movements which allows them to expend more energy towards producing milk.

“These are not grazing cows they will be in the shed well fed, less movements for them so more of their energy goes towards milk production. One of these cow sheds will be about 80,000 square feet, we will have our own veterinarian here and our own milking parlor.”

He added that the farm will also be equipped with its own storage and treatment facility. “So as the cows consume their food, we basically carry them out and milk them, we also have a storage and treatment facility where the milk

nure lagoon” where it will be stored and then used on the crop field at a later date.

“So the farm itself is self-sustaining, basically all of the cow manure that is produced in the cow sheds will be scraped off, diluted and then pumped into a cow manure lagoon as we call it. From there it will be pumped back into the field as a natural source of fertiliser.”

Moreover, as it relates to water consumption on the farm, the facility will be equipped with several wells within its parameters. Notably the facility will also be outfitted with a fresh water irrigation lagoon which will store storm water during the rainy seasons, Guyana Times understands that this lagoon will also store water extracted from the wells to ensure the farm is well sourced with water particularly during the dry season.

As it relates to the food that will be used to feed the cows,

Manickchand explained, that these crops will be prepared using two harvesting methods, this he noted will ensure that the farm is always equipped with a adequate amount of feed stock for the cows regardless of the weather conditions.

“So, the two methods of preparing the food for the cows are, we can have it be done by baling, we have a hay baler basically cuts the grass and bales it up when we have good weather, the bale can typically last for about six months, so that goes for storage. The other method is for when we have bad weather and this is called silage, that now, is when its cut and prepared, it goes under shrink wrap and that can be stored for longer periods up to two years.”

One of the grasses that is being grown on the farm is the Guinea Grass (Megathyrsus Maximus) which a fast-growing palatable leafy grass, commonly used to feed livestock due to its good nu-

will be cold stored and then we transport it to our diamond plant.”

In a move to ensure the farm is self-sufficient, Darrell explained that manure produced in the cow sheds will be transported to another facility called a “Cow ma-

Darrell explained that the farm will produce its own feed stock.

To achieve this, DDL has already cleared two massive plots of land that will house some 4 varieties of grass as well as sweet corn which will be used to feed the cows.

ity. According to Manickchand, this data will then be transferred to one of the stations at the farm where it will be analysed and used for future weather predictions.

“We have to monitor the weather, so we have a data logger which is a small weather station that remotely sends the information to our site office. This device tracks the amount of sunshine and stuff like that. That data goes into our computer systems so we know how last year would have performed so we can say ok we had wet season during these months and dry season during these months, so in the future we can plan for it.”

tritional value.

Additionally, to reduce the impact of weather and climate shocks, the farm is equipped with its own weather station, that is capable of recoding conditions such as sunshine, rain fall and humid-

Meanwhile, the highly anticipated state-of-the-art US$20 million dairy farm, the first of its kind in the Caribbean, which is being built by DDL, is slated to supply the local and regional market by the third quarter of 2025. The facility, which is located at Moblissa along the SoesdykeLinden Highway stemmed from an agreement which was signed in February, 2023 by DDL subsidiary Tropical Orchard Product Company Limited (TOPCO) and the LR Group of Israel.

Grasses being grown at the farm

DDL Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Komal Samaroo

DDL Project’s Manager, Administrative Division, Darrell Manickchand

8 months after shooting

“Why must we beg for accountability?”

A–parents of teen killed at work

valon and Reshma

Jagnandan have, in a recent press release, renewed their calls for justice for their 18-yearold son Jared Jagnandan, who on March 21 was shot and killed by an armed security guard attached to the Cerberus Security Inc.

At the time of the incident, Jared Jagnandan was employed as a marketing and sales representative at S.M.K Shaf Auto Sales & Spares.

Avalon and Reshma

Jagnandan said on Monday that after they had first gone public in demanding justice for their son, the police had

instituted charges against security guard Deandrell Semple, who had been responsible for discharging the weapon that resulted in their son’s death. They say that while they were pleased with this progress, justice involves holding all parties accountable.

They have since expressed dissatisfaction with the police failing to press charges against the security company, for allegedly acting recklessly in putting an illegal firearm in the hands of an individual who had never been trained nor licensed to hold a firearm.

Avalon and Reshma

Jagnandan have expressed in the release on Monday that, to date, no charges have been instituted against the directors of Cerberus Security Inc, despite clear breaches of the Private Security Act, and despite the legislature designing specific laws aimed at holding private security firms accountable, recognizing that their operation of firearms poses an increased risk to the public.

“It has now been more than eight months since our son’s death. No investigatory process should take so long, especially for a matter so straightforward as breach-

Berbice fatal canal crash

“I wouldn’t be with you all for the Christmas” – wife recalls husband’s words before death

The fisherman, whose lifeless body was on Saturday afternoon fished out of a canal at Babu Jaan, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) after plunging into the canal while driving his vehicle at a fast rate of speed, told his wife a few days before his demise that he was not going to be with the family for Christmas.

His wife, Karel Woodruff, said he told her of his feelings last Thursday.

“He said something bad would happen to either he or one of his brothers but he didn’t know it was this. He said ‘Karel I wouldn’t be with you all for the Christmas’. He didn’t say he thought that he would die, he said he going to jail,” his wife of 18 years related.

Mitchell Benn, a father of three was expecting to go out to sea on Sunday morning after not being able to make it on time on Friday when the tide was high enough for the boat to sail out from the dock.

Police had reported that the 34-year-old was proceeding west along an access dam at Babu Jaan allegedly at a fast rate of speed when he lost control of the vehicle and ended up in a canal situated in a

northwestern direction and submerged.

He was pulled from the vehicle in an unconscious condition and taken to the Port Mourant Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

His wife said that during the period the vehicle was submerged in the water she walked pass on more than one occasion and did not see it.

“Me passing he all the time but not thinking about looking in the canal because I was looking for his vehicle on the road. I did not look there not knowing that I passing Mitchell all the time.”

After the submerged vehicle was spotted and an alarm was raised, Woodruff said she went over and saw two of her husband’s friends at the scene.

“I told them to go and see if anybody in the vehi-

cle and they were afraid. Nobody did not want to go in the water because they don’t want no problem with the police. I forced his friend Paul to go in to see if anybody inside the jeep... He opened the door and he put his head inside and tell me that nobody inside. I said, ‘Thank God.”

Woodruff then made her way to the Port Mourant Hospital.

Meanwhile, the nowdead man’s brother, who subsequently arrived on the scene explained that he immediately went into the water.

“When I look, I see him, his head alone showing in the water and I rush to him and turn him over...”

An autopsy conducted on Monday by Government Pathologist Dr Vivekanand Bridgemohan, gave the cause of death as a fractured cervical spine. (G4)

es of the Private Security Act. From the moment that the Police Force determines that licences are not in place, Cerberus Security Inc. is immediately in breach of the Act,” the Jagnandans contend.

The grieving parents are also contending it is also strange that the police have only recently revealed that at the time of Jared’s shooting, Cerberus Security Inc did not have a 2024 licence for the shotgun that was used to kill their son; and that Cerberus Security Inc

was also not licensed to operate as a security firm for the year 2024 at the time.

“Why was this not brought out in initial investigations by the police at Vigilance and Cove & John?

We feel as though had we not pushed so hard for a special investigation into Cerberus Security Inc., their gross negligence would to date (have remained) undiscovered.

Why must we continue to beg for justice, as if we are requesting something to which we are not entitled?” the grieving parents have asked in their call for justice.

“To date, we also have not been able to see footage of our son’s death, which was captured by CCTV cameras. Despite numerous requests from our attorney to the Police Force and assurances that this footage would not be used for anything more than the institution of civil proceedings, the police have flatly refused to cooperate,” the statement read.

The Jagnandans have said that, in their continued efforts for justice for their son, they are being treated disdainfully.

“Are we supposed to say nothing? What can we do but speak to the public? If our son was alive, he would have

celebrated his 19th birthday today, November 25, 2024.”

Jared Jagnandan of Mon Repos, ECD was reportedly shot dead on March 21 by a 20-year-old security officer attached to the Cerberus Security Service, who was at the time armed with a 12-gauge shotgun.

Police investigations revealed that on the day in question, the owner of the S.M.K Shaf Auto Sales & Spares had returned to the store with his wife after transacting business, and had found the suspect, who was on duty, and Jagnandan in a chair a short distance away from the Security Officer’s desk.

The couple had proceeded to the entity’s office, but said they had heard a loud explosion in the store a few minutes later. The businessman said he had immediately gone to check on the origin of the sound, and had observed Jagnandan lying motionless on the ground with blood about the lower section of his body.

The injured teen was picked up in an unconscious state, with a wound on the upper left leg, and was taken to the Woodlands Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Dead: Jared Jagnandan

Dead: Mitchell Benn

The vehicle submerged in the canal

Govt gives parliamentary account for US$582M in oil funds received during 2024 3rd quarter

…4 oil lifts recorded during that timeframe

The Government on Monday gave account to the National Assembly for the US$582 Million in funds that were received from both oil and royalty payments during the third quarter of 2024.

During the sitting of the National Assembly, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance Dr. Ashni Singh, laid the Natural Resource Fund notification of receipts in the house.

It shows that profit oil payments were received for six oil lifts from the Liza Unity, Destiny and Prosperity Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels… four of those lifts actually occurring in the third quarter.

US$81 Million ($16.9 Billion in local currency), was received for a profit oil payment that was deposited on July 17, 2024. On July 26, another profit oil payment was deposited on July 26, 2024, this time for the sum of US$86.5 Million ($18 Billion). These profit oil payments were for lifts from the Liza Unity and Prosperity FPSO’s, respectively.

Only July 29, 2024,

there was a royalty payment of US$101 Million ($21 Billion), that was related to the production of oil in the 2024 second quarter. The next profit oil payment occurred on August 29, 2024, in the sum of US$79.9 Million ($16.6 Billion). This payment was courtesty of oil production from the Prosperity FPSO. In September, there were three profit oil payments. The first one, US$79.4 Million ($16.5 Billion) occurred on September 4, 2024 and it was payment for a profit oil lift that occurred on August 6, 2024 from the

Liza Destiny.

The remaining two payments, US$78.2 Million and US$76.4 Million, occurred on September 9 and 30, and were for lifts from the Liza Unity and Prosperity FPSO’s that occurred on August 9 and August 30. In a statement, the Ministry of Finance explained that the Finance Minister’s tabling of these records is a continuation of the government’s compliance with the NRF Act it signed into law.

“In July of this year, Minister Singh presented the NRF Annual Report for the fiscal year 2023 to the

National Assembly, pursuant to Section 32(4) of the NRF Act 2021. In addition, at that sitting of the National Assembly, the Speaker of the National Assembly also circulated the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee Annual Report for the fiscal year 2023, pursuant to Section 6(6) of the NRF Act 2021.”

“Another key improvement to the NRF Act 2021 is that the Minister could face up to ten years imprisonment if he fails to disclose the receipt of any petroleum revenue received by Government in the Official Gazette within three months of receipt of such monies.

The PPP/C Government

will continue to manage Guyana’s oil resources in a clear and transparent manner, to the benefit of present and future generations,” the Ministry added.

The funds in the NRF have their origins in the oilrich Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, where US oil major ExxonMobil and its partners – Hess Corporation and CNOOC – are producing light sweet crude using the Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, and more recently, the Prosperity Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels.

In 2022, for the first time, Guyana had used oil funds to finance a national budget. In fact, in 2022, the Government withdrew a to-

tal of $126 billion (US$607.6 million) in three tranches from the NRF which went towards financing Guyana’s national development plans. In 2023, US$1.002 billion was withdrawn to finance national development priorities. The last of eight withdrawals for last year was made on December 27, 2023, from the NRF to the Consolidated Fund, to the tune of US$152.1 million (equivalent to $31.6 billion). Last month, the Government made a withdrawal of $62.3 billion (US$300 million) from the NRF, marking the fourth tranche of the $329.8 billion in withdrawals approved by Parliament for 2024. (G3)

Teixeira urges MPs to serve the people as she receives Commonwealth Lifetime

Achievement

Award

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance

Minister, Gail Teixeira, MP, on Monday urged parliamentarians to remember that the opportunity given to be in the National Assembly is one of service.

Teixeira was at the time delivering brief remarks after officially receiving the prestigious Commonwealth Parliamentarian Lifetime Achievement Award. “I encourage all the young MPs in particular, on both sides of the house, that this is about serving the people and being able to do the best you can in the interest of the people of our country,” she is quoted as saying in a Department of Public Information (DPI) report.

Teixeira expressed her gratitude to the Parliament Office of Guyana for the nomination, and the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) for reposing their confidence in her to lead at the highest level.

Over the years, Teixeira has held several ministerial portfolios since the first free and fair elections in 1992. These include Minister of Health, Minister of Home Affairs, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, and now Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance.

She has also served as a Presidential Advisor on

Governance to numerous Executive Presidents of Guyana.

Teixeira is the longest serving Member of Parliament in Guyana’s history, with over 30 years of consecutive experience.

The criteria to receive this particular award from the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association are: The nominee must have been a parliamentarian for more than 20 years. Over that time, the nominee must have: Demonstrated an impressive record of achievement as a parliamentarian

in their contribution to their Parliament and to their country; Promoted democracy and good governance within their jurisdiction; and achieved notable and sustainable positive change over the course of their career.

Teixeira was nominated for this prestigious award by the Parliament of Guyana in September 2024.

Following her nomination, she was selected as this year’s recipient after meeting all outlined criteria of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA).

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira, MP, receiving the Commonwealth Lifetime Achievement Award from Confidential Secretary to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Jaitun Haniff

Moblissa gets modern community centre, power supply

…as DDL’s investment bear fruit

Residents of Moblissa on the Linden Soesdyke Highway, will now have access to a modern and upgraded community centre which was funded by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL).

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Sunday was DDL’s Project Manager, Wesly Kirton who highlighted that this investment is part of the organisation’s effort to establish a stronger relationship with members of the community.

He reveled that the need for the urgent rehabilitation of the building was recognised during a community visit last year.

“We had a community Christmas party in what was a half-built building. No windows, no flooring, no windows and among the guests was the chairman and among the people at the Christmas party were

Also present at the ceremony was DDL Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Komal Samaroo, who reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment towards giving back to communities. As such he noted that the milk which will be produced at the new state-of-the-art US$20 million dairy farm located in the area will be trademarked with the village name.

“In our marketing campaign, when we start talking about fresh packaged milk, we will say this milk was produced at Moblissa so we will be putting Moblissa on the map.”

He added that, the dairy farm will also create job opportunities for residents.

“We create jobs for people in this community persons who, once they apply themselves will be trained to operate and manage this dairy

Extension Institute) to help you with technical advice on what are the fruits best for your land and how you grow it and we have brought on board The Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED) to help you to fund your project and to guide you on the business principle.”

Additionally, the chairman also revealed that due to the construction of the new dairy farm, residents for the first time in history will be able to have access to electricity.

Giving a detailed description of the system was Project Consultant on electrification Elwyn Marshall who is also a former senior executive of the Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL). He revealed that a new transmission line will be constructed from Amelias ward in Linden to the community.

a number of children and the chairman said to me, Wesley, I want you to have this community centre rehabilitated.”

He added “The architects found that the building was unsafe, that it had no foundation and that the logical thing to do was to put it down and construct an entirely new building which we have done and we want this to be a shining example of how a community and a private sector organisation can work together.”

project. Which will employ almost 100 persons.”

Moreover, the chairman revealed that the company will need some 10 million pounds of fruits annually for their Topco brand. As such he noted that some of these fruits could be sourced from the community.

“We need 10 million pounds of fruits a year. We are looking for people to grow fruits which we buy, process and make pulp and we have engaged NAREI (National Agricultural Research and

“Initially, the thought was that we would just extend that line up to the junction but because of the length of the line and the power requirements of the dairy farm, what was decided is that they would build a new line in Linden, which starts at Toucan Drive, in Amelia’s ward.”

According to Marshall, this new power line would not only benefit residents of Moblissa but will also reduce the load on the Amelia’s ward power grid.

“That would allow residents in that vicinity to have power once they do the necessary arrangement with Linden Electricity Company Inc. Another side benefit would be that because we are building a new line and offloading some of the load on the existing line. Persons in Amelia’s ward would have a better voltage supply because with a smaller load

they would then have a better voltage.”

Guyana Times understands that a 750 Kilo-voltamperes (kVA) transformer will be employed to power the new electrical line, which is set to span approximately 25 kilometres in total.

Moreover, the project will utilise modern concrete polls to support the new transmission line, these

polls will last significantly longer compared to the traditionally wooden pools used in the past.

In addition to a new community centre, a playground was also commissioned in the community. The play ground was donated by the Gayle Foundation which since 2010 has established some 15 playgrounds across Guyana.

DDL Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Komal Samaroo cutting ribbon

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2024 |

Youth involvement is key to developing communities – Sukhai

Acknowledging the critical role youths play in shaping the future through leadership and innovation, Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai emphasised the urgent need for youth involvement in the development of communities.

During a visit to the Amerindian village of Santa Aratack on Sunday, Minister

Sukhai shared this message with local residents: “if we involve young people in the work of the community, we are shaping their minds to be loyal and to be nationalist – not only for the wider village but for their community.”

According to a Department of Public Information report, following a general inspection of

ongoing community projects, Sukhai addressed concerns and stressed the importance of progress while also catering to community needs.

Sukhai noted that while infrastructural work is making steady progress, involving youth could significantly accelerate the momentum for future growth.

In a call to action, the Minister urged residents to

Trump vows to slap 25% tariffs on Mexico, Canada, 10% tariffs on China

S President-elect

UDonald Trump said Monday he intends to impose a 25 per cent tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada, along with a 10 per cent tariff on imports from China in response to the illegal drug trade and immigration.

In a series of posts to his Truth Social social media account, Trump vowed to hit some of the United States’ largest trading partners with sweeping tariffs on all goods entering the country.

“On January 20th, as one of my many first Executive Orders, I will sign all necessary documents to charge Mexico and Canada a 25 per cent tariff on ALL products coming into the United States, and its ridiculous Open Borders,” he wrote.

In another post moments later, the past and future president said he would also be slapping China with a 10

per cent tariff, “above any additional Tariffs,” on all of its products entering the US in response to its failure to tackle fentanyl smuggling.

Tariffs are a key part of Trump’s economic agenda, with the Republican president-elect vowing wide-ranging duties on allies and adversaries alike while he was on the campaign trail ahead of his November 5 victory.

Many economists have warned that tariffs would

hurt growth and push up inflation, since they are primarily paid by importers bringing the goods into the US, who often pass those costs on to consumers.

But those in Trump’s inner circle have insisted that the tariffs are a useful bargaining chip for the US to use to push its trading partners to agree to more favourable terms, and to bring back manufacturing jobs from overseas. (AFP)

take proactive steps in educating, empowering, training and nurturing the youth and other key demographics within their community.

She emphasised that “there must be an aggressive approach to involving young people and women.”

The Minister also en-

couraged young men and women to take a special interest in acquiring practical skills such as carpentry, masonry and becoming tourist operators. She further highlighted that the advantages of their location near to the coast allows for easy access to raw materials and markets for their products.

The Minister also cited that the community’s internet access enables residents to advance their education by registering for any number of free Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) courses.

The Government has implemented many other initiatives aimed at fostering skill development and self-improvement among young people, Minister Sukhai pointed out.

Youth are encouraged to participate in projects like the Community Support Officer (CSO) programme, which involves them in critical sectors such as health, education and governance, she said. Through this particular programme, youth gain hands-on experience while contributing positively to the development of their community.

Sukhai urged residents to support local contractors who are essential for sustainable development.

Over 40,000 flee violence in Port-au-Prince in 10 days – UN

More than 40,000 people fled their homes in Port-auPrince over just ten days this month as the Haitian capital was rocked by a spike in gang violence, the UN’s migration agency said Monday.

The International Organisation for Migration described it as the worst wave of displacement in two years, with a total of 40,965 people in Port-au-Prince on the move between November 11 and 20 — some for the second or third time.

The scale of this displacement is unprecedented since we began responding to the humanitarian crisis in 2022,” Gregoire Goodstein, the IOM chief in Haiti, said in a statement.

For the past two weeks, several neighbourhoods of Port-au-Prince and the surrounding area have been the sites of violent clashes involving “Viv Ansanm” (“Living Together”), an alliance of gangs formed in February aimed at overthrowing then-Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who

resigned in April. In total, over 700,000 people have been displaced in Haiti, the organisation said.

“This crisis is not just a humanitarian challenge. It is a test of our collective responsibility,” Goodstein added.

Haiti has suffered from political instability for decades, with the latest security crisis linked to the presence of armed gangs that are accused of widespread murder, kidnapping and sexual violence. (AFP)

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai delivers remarks

US President-elect Donald Trump

Alumni donates $1M to enhance Anna Regina Secondary School security

In a bid to improve security and ensure the safety of students, the New York Chapter of the Anna Regina High School Alumni Association of America has donated $1 million to Anna Regina Secondary School. The official handover took place on Monday afternoon the school’s auditorium.

Representing the New York Chapter, Indrawattie Natram presented the donation on behalf of Alumni President Indarjeet Paul, who resides in New York.

T&T foreign exchange crisis

The funds will be used to install 17 security cameras, significantly enhancing the safety measures on the school’s premises.

Chairman of the Board of Governors, Bolaram Mohan, expressed his gratitude to the Alumni for

Buying US dollars from visiting family may violate T&T Exchange Control Laws – JSC member

If you buy US currency from a relative visiting T&T, you may be in breach of the Exchange and Control Act. This is because there must be authorisation from the Central Bank to do so. The issue was raised during Friday’s Joint Select Committee on Finance and Legal Affairs, which discussed an inquiry into the performance of the Financial Intelligence Unit of T&T (FIU) in relation to improving anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/ CFT) compliance.

During the discussions, JSC member Laurence Hislop asked, “If I am a regular citizen and a family member comes from the US or from Canada and they have foreign currency, are you saying to the public they are breaching the Exchange and Control Act by purchasing that foreign currency from that family member?”

In response, the FIU’s director, Nigel Stoddard, said the legislation was clear with regards to a person who does not have an authorised licence from the Central Bank for purchasing and selling foreign exchange.

“Knowing our culture, that aspect of it, if someone is returning, as the ex-

ample you gave in the case of a family member, generally that person is not, in my view, in the business of buying or selling foreign exchange.

“However, once someone in that capacity goes to the financial institution, as in the example you would have given, the banks have their customer due diligence requirements that they would perform, and included in that would be the source of funds, and an honest person would indicate where they would get their funds from. Again it comes back to the legislation, and the view is they determine if it is considered suspicious and can file a report with the FIU,” Stoddard said.

According to the Exchange Control Act (Chapter 79.50, Section 6[1]), transactions involving the buying, selling, borrowing or lending of foreign currency should only be conducted through authorised dealers.

Hislop pressed further, asking how much the FIU is concerned about the illegal sale of foreign currency, as he specifically noted there are several retail outlets throughout the country advertising the purchase of US dollars.

Stoddard, however, said this was outside of the FIU’s

remit and instead would lie generally within the Central Bank. Patrick Solomon, inspector of financial institutions at the Central Bank, reiterated that according to the law, people must be authorised dealers to buy and sell foreign exchange. However, he said the Central Bank was looking at potential amendments to the Exchange Control Act to strengthen T&T’s financial regulatory framework.

Committee member Jayanti LutchmedialRamdial, in her contribution, advised authorities to examine some thresholds, including allowing businesses to accept a certain amount of money from members of the public. She added relevant stakeholders need to take into consideration whether they want to create an offence that could then criminalise someone who buys foreign currency from relatives returning from abroad.

Amid reports that many have turned to the black market to purchase foreign exchange, earlier this month the Central Bank listed the authorised dealers of foreign exchange in the country.

In a notice on its website, the bank said 13 companies were licenced as authorised foreign exchange dealers in T&T as of September 30, 2024.

They are ANSA Bank; Citibank (T&T); First Citizens Bank; CIBC Caribbean Bank (T&T); JMMB Bank (T&T); RBC Royal Bank (T&T); Republic Bank; Scotiabank T&T; ANSA Merchant Bank; Development Finance Ltd; Massy Finance GFC Ltd, NCB Merchant Bank (T&T); and the ExportImport Bank of T&T (EXIMBANK). Additionally, the Central Bank noted that Global Exchange T&T, GraceKennedy (T&T), Massy Remittance Services (Trinidad) Ltd, and Millennium Finance and Leasing Company Ltd are authorised to operate as bureaux de change (currency exchange in the country) operators. (T&T Guardian)

their unwavering support. During the school’s assembly, he commended the association for its consistent contributions and shared his enthusiasm to continue collaborating with them to foster positive developments at the institution.

Headmaster Sir Lalljeet

Rooplall also thanked the Paul and the alumni team, describing the donation as timely and essential to strengthening the school’s security infrastructure. He lauded their dedication to meeting the school’s needs over the years.

“We would like to thank

Mr Paul and his team for their vital contributions to enhance our school security that will ensure a safe environment for our students and staff while supporting the overall development of this institution,” Lalljeet said.

Chairman of Board of Governors, Boloram Mohan handing over the cheque to the Head Master of Anna Regina Secondary School, Lalljeet Rooplall

JSC member Laurence Hislop

Former history teacher Yamandú Orsi wins Uruguay election

Aleft-wing former history teacher, Yamandú Orsi, has won the presidential election in Uruguay.

Orsi beat Álvaro Delgado, the candidate for the governing conservative coalition, by more than three percentage points in Sunday's runoff.

Delgado conceded defeat and congratulated Orsi and his Broad Front coalition, which will now return to power after five years of conservative rule.

The Broad Front governed Uruguay for 15 years from 2005 to 2020 before being beaten by outgoing President Luis Lacalle Pou

- who under Uruguay's constitution was barred from standing for a second consecutive term in this election.

Orsi, 57, is seen as a protege of former President José Mujica, who won the hearts of many in Uruguay through his modest lifestyle, prompting many to label him "the world's poorest president".

Orsi himself comes from a humble background, having grown up in rural Uruguay in a house without electricity.

While working as a school history teacher, he became active in local politics, eventually becoming mayor of

Canelones, Uruguay's second-most populous department.

During Orsi's time at the helm in Canelones, tech giant Google announced it would build a huge data centre in the department.

Orsi struck a business-friendly note in his campaign, saying that he planned to avoid raising taxes that could scare off investors.

Addressing his supporters on Sunday evening, he stressed he wanted to be a president for all 3.4 million Uruguayans, saying he would "call for a national dialogue again and again" and that he would listen to those who had voted for his rival.

"I'm going to be the president who builds a more integrated country, where we set aside our differences and nobody is left behind, neither economically, socially or politically."

Outgoing President Luis Lacalle Pou said he would work with Orsi to ensure a smooth transition ahead of the swearing-in of the new president on 1 March next year. (BBC)

‘Royalties for everyone’: Suriname President plans to share oil wealth

Suriname’s president has announced a program of “royalties for everyone” as the South American nation plans for a boon from recently discovered oil and gas reserves.

Suriname and its neighbor Guyana, both former Dutch colonies, expect to make billions in the years to come from rich offshore crude deposits. Earlier this month, Guyana announced all adult citizens living at home and abroad would receive a payout of around £370 as part of an effort to redistribute its oil wealth.

Experts have said Suriname – a country of 600,000 people – stands to make about $10bn in the next 10 to 20 years.

Almost one in five Surinamese people today live in poverty, according to World Bank figures. Annual GDP is about $3.4bn.

Last month, French oil group Total announced a $10.5bn project to exploit an oil field off the coast of Suriname with a capacity of producing 220,000 barrels per day. Production should start in 2028. On Monday, President Chan Santokhi said royalties will be paid “so that every Surinamese can benefit and profit from oil and gas”.

Each citizen would receive an amount of $750 in a savings account, with an annual interest rate of seven percent, he said in an Independence Day address.

“Everyone shall benefit

the

from this opportunity and no one will be left behind,” the president vowed. “You are co-owners of the oil incomes.”

Santokhi had previously told AFP his country was “quite aware of the oil curse”, also known as “Dutch disease”, which had befallen other resource-rich countries

such as Venezuela, Angola and Algeria that were unable to turn oil wealth into economic success.

Norway became an exception to the “curse” by building up a sovereign wealth fund. Suriname has set up a similar fund in expectation of the oil cash influx. (The Guardian)

T&T manufacturers eye EU markets

Europe is a thriving market that continues to beckon more and more local companies to export their goods and services to that part of the world.

Karibbean Flavours with its wide assortment of seasonings and sauces and Kairi Chocolates offering home grown chocolates are two such entities which have their eyes set on Europe.

They were among 20 goods and services companies that took part in the Fit 4 Europe II initiative, which focussed on enhancing the export-readiness of T&T’s businesses, with particular emphasis on improving their international competitiveness for the EU market.

Fit 4 Europe II is being supervised by the Caribbean Development Bank’s Economic Partnership Agreement and Caricom Single Market and Economy Standby Facility for Capacity Building, which is funded by the European Union.

At the closing ceremony of Fit 4 Europe II last Monday, Minister of Trade and Industry, Paula GopeeScoon, outlined the benefits of the initiative.

That was the culmination of the second instalment of a

€161,590 project designed to prepare T&T exporters to venture into new markets, expand their business footprint in the EU specifically Germany and Sweden, and increase their foreign exchange earnings.

In 2022, T&T’s exports to the European Union (EU) totalled US$5.88 billion, according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade.

Of T&T’s exports to the EU of US$5.88 billion, mineral fuels, oils, distillation products alone accounted for US$3.88 billion. Inorganic chemicals, precious metal compounds and isotopes ran a distant second at US$684.23 million and organic chemicals rounding out the top three exports at approximately US$639 million.

Fertilisers were T&T’s fourth largest export at almost US$440 million.

Fit 4 Europe II is an initiative to encourage the further growth of exports from the local non-energy and services sectors.

The Sunday Business Guardian spoke to Karibbean Flavours-a brand of RHS Marketing Ltd- and Kairi Chocolates about their respective visions.

RHS Marketing Ltd is

a processor and distributor of premium quality sauces, seasonings, spices, condiments, seamoss drink, jellies, fruit cordials and essences in Trinidad.

The Karibbean Flavours brand was introduced in 1996, and is one of the best known and leading brands in the Caribbean with products being sold through national grocery chains, hotels and restaurants. The products are exported to the Caribbean Islands, United States of America, Canada and England and maintain a strong presence with the various diaspora communities, explained Arune Maharaj, the export development manager for RHS marketing.

Now, with Europe in sight, Maharaj said, “We recently started to do distributorship with a company in the UK, so we have started to go to that hemisphere to broaden that orizon. “We still have some research to do to expand out of the UK but, with the Fit 4 Europe II project, that gave us some avenues to work with.” Maharaj also detailed other plans, including getting into Jamaica and Central America namely Columbia and Panama, in the first quarter of 2025. (T&T Guardian)

Jamaica PM rolls out goodies

Awidening of the $20,000 tax give-back programme, reduction of General Consumption Tax (GCT) on electricity, a writeoff for some National Water Commission (NWC) customers, and a waiver of fees for craft vendors were among the goodies announced by Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Leader Prime Minister Andrew Holness as he made the case on Sunday for his party to be given a third term in Government.

Delivering the main address at the public session of the JLP’s 81st Annual Conference at the National Arena, Holness declared that the measures he announced were not just promises.

“The Jamaican people can see that it is one thing to listen to a bag-a-mouth and a bag-a-promise, but nothing that I have said here is a promise. All of what I have said here is happening,

about to happen, or will happen shortly,” said Holness as he closed the JLP’s final annual conference before the next general election due by September next year.

“Jamaica today is a different place from Jamaica 10 years ago, and I am very pleased to

be with you on the journey in transforming Jamaica. Yes, there are still challenges; yes, there are still hardships; yes, we see that there are inequities…but it depends, my friends, on the perspective you take. (Excerpted from Jamaica Observer)

US suspends Mexican cattle imports after New World screwworm case

The United States has temporarily paused imports of Mexican cattle after a case of New World screwworm (NWS) was identified at the lakeside town of Catazaja in southern Chiapas state, the Mexican government said on Sunday.

"The United States and Mexico are working on implementing measures to re-

Nicaraguan lawmakers pass bill forcing local banks to ignore foreign sanctions

Nicaragua's parliament on Monday approved a law that seeks to nullify foreign sanctions issued against President Daniel Ortega's vice president and wife Rosario Murillo, several of their children and some 50 high-ranking state officials.

The legislation, although unable to curb the impact of sanctions outside the country, aims to nullify their reach within Nicaragua by

forcing local banks and other institutions to ignore them.

It was unanimously approved by all 91 pro-government deputies in the Central American nation's ruling Sandinista Front-dominated parliament after Ortega sent the bill to parliament last week.

Walmaro Gutierrez, a deputy from Ortega's Sandinista party who has been sanctioned by the United States since 2020,

said the law enshrines the country's sovereignty and independence.

"We are tired of having the sword of Damocles always hanging over us or a boot always pressing against our neck," he said.

The law will become effective once it is published in the official gazette, which could happen within days.

The "law to protect Nicaraguans from foreign sanctions and aggressions"

declares sanctions imposed by foreign states, groups of states and organizations that violate international law as "null and void without any legal effect."

It rules that no person or entity can suspend goods or services to sanctioned individuals or companies or they could face fines, a temporary or definitive suspension of operations and potential imprisonment under treason charges. (Reuters)

sume the normal flow of Mexican exports," it said in a statement.

It added that the measures did not apply to other exports and control measures were being implemented.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Friday said that Mexico's chief veterinary officer had notified it of the detection of NWS in a cow at a checkpoint near the southern border with Guatemala. NWS maggots often enter through an open wound and feed on living flesh of warm-blooded animals, including people, USDA said. It warned that infestations can be difficult to detect at first but can manifest itself through growing wounds, creamy larvae and signs of discomfort.

USDA said it was working with partners in Mexico and Central America to stop the screwworm's spread and asking producers in the area to monitor their livestock and pets, and immediately report potential cases. (Reuters)

New President of Uruguay, Yamandú Orsi

Chan Santokhi,

President of Suriname

Around the World

OOIL NEWS

Oil falls more than $2 a barrel on possible Middle East peace deal

il prices fell more than $2 a barrel on Monday after multiple reports that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to the terms of a deal to end the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, citing unnamed senior U.S. officials.

Brent crude futures settled at $73.01 a barrel, down $2.16, or 2.87%. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures finished at $68.94 a barrel, down $2.30 or 3.23%.

Israel said on Monday it is moving toward a ceasefire in the war with Hezbollah but there are still issues to address, while Lebanese officials voiced guarded optimism but said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was not to be trusted. "It seems the news of a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is behind the price drop, though no supply has been disrupted due to the conflict between the two countries and the risk premium in oil has been low already before the latest price decline," said Giovanni Staunovo of UBS.

Oil markets are being pushed up and down on rising or falling supply disruption fears, Phil Flynn, senior analyst at Price Futures Group, said in a Monday note. "A report that Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu approves Lebanon ceasefire deal in principle could be a bearish catalyst, yet we must see more details as they become available. Last week the world was stunned as Russia launched supersonic missiles" at Ukraine, Flynn wrote in his energy report.

Both Brent and US WTI contracts last week notched their biggest weekly gains since late September to reach their highest settlement levels since Nov. 7 after Russia fired a hypersonic missile at Ukraine in a warning to the United States and the UK following strikes by Ukraine on Russia using U.S. and British weapons.

OPEC+, at its next meeting on Sunday, may consider leaving its current oil output cuts in place from Jan. 1, Azerbaijan's Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov told Reuters.

The group, which includes the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries plus allies like Russia, has postponed hikes this year amid demand worries.

Azerbaijan is a member of OPEC+, which will meet online on Dec. 1. (Reuters)

Germany draws up list of bunkers amid Russia tensions

Germany is drawing up a list of bunkers that could provide emergency shelter for civilians, the interior ministry has said, at a time of rising tensions with Russia.

The list would include underground train stations and car parks as well as state buildings and private properties, a ministry spokesperson said.

A digital directory of bunkers and emergency shelters will be drawn up so people can find them quickly using a planned phone app. People would also be encouraged to create protective shelters in their homes by converting basements and garages, the spokesperson told a press briefing.

He declined to give a timetable, saying it was a big project that would take some time, involving the Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance and other authorities.

The country of 84 million people has 579 bunkers, mostly from the second

Prosecutors drop election interference and documents cases against Trump

Special counsel prosecutors dismissed the two federal criminal cases against Donald Trump in separate court filings on Monday, as they bowed to the reality that they would not be completed or proceed to trial before Trump returns to the presidency next year.

The withdrawals marked the end of the years-long legal battle between Trump and the special counsel, Jack Smith, and reflected the extraordinary ability of Trump to sidestep an indictment that would have sunk the presidential bid of anyone else.

Trump’s election victory was always going to spell the end of the criminal cases against him – over Trump’s retention of classified documents and his efforts to overturn the 2020 election – due to justice department policy that prohibits taking criminal action against a sitting president.

But the withdrawals also showed just how successfully Trump, with help from sympathetic judges, managed to beat the justice system with

Biden,

an audacious play of using a presidential campaign and the political calendar to sidestep deeply perilous charges.

In a six-page motion to dismiss the 2020 election interference case, prosecutors said even though Trump was not yet president, they had been told by the department’s office of legal counsel, which provides internal legal advice, to withdraw the case before his inauguration in January.

“It has long been the position of the Department of Justice that the United States Constitution forbids

Macron set to announce Israel-Hezbollah truce - Lebanese sources

the federal indictment and subsequent criminal prosecution of a sitting President,” wrote Smith’s top deputy, Molly Gaston.

“That prohibition is categorical and does not turn on the gravity of the crimes charged, the strength of the Government’s proof, or the merits of the prosecution, which the Government stands fully behind,” she added.

Moments later, prosecutors told the US court of appeals for the 11th circuit that they were withdrawing their challenge against the

earlier dismissal of the classified documents case with respect to Trump.

But they said they would continue trying to bring cases against Trump’s co-defendants Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira - although it was unclear whether those charges would also be dropped once Trump’s loyalist attorney general pick, Pam Bondi, takes over the justice department.

From the Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, the site of the presidential transition where Trump allegedly stashed 101 classified documents after he left office and was indicted after ignoring a subpoena for their return, Trump’s communications director Steven Cheung issued a gleeful statement on the news.

“Today’s decision by the DOJ ends the unconstitutional federal cases against President Trump, and is a major victory for the rule of law. The American People and President Trump want an immediate end to the political weaponization of our justice system,” Cheung wrote. (The Guardian)

16 missing after Red Sea tourist boat sinks

world war and the cold war era, which can provide shelter for 480,000 people, down from about 2,000 bunkers previously.

The spokesperson said the key points of the plan were agreed at a conference of senior officials in June and a special group was looking into it.

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, concerns have been growing about Moscow’s potential to target other Nato members. In October, German intelligence chiefs warned that Russia would probably be capable of launching an attack on the military alliance by 2030.

German officials say the country is already experiencing a sharp rise in Russian spying and sabotage activities. Last week the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, said the conflict in Ukraine had characteristics of a “global” war and he did not rule out strikes on western countries. (The Guardian)

US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron are expected to announce a ceasefire in Lebanon between armed group Hezbollah and Israel within 36 hours, four senior Lebanese sources said on Monday.

In Washington, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said, "We're close" but "nothing is done until everything is done".

The French presidency said discussions on a ceasefire had made significant progress. In Jerusalem, a senior Israeli official said Israel's cabinet would meet on Tuesday to approve a truce deal with Hezbollah.

Signs of a diplomatic breakthrough were accompanied by heavy Israeli airstrikes on Beirut's Hezbollahcontrolled southern suburbs, as Israel pressed on with the offensive it launched

in September after almost a year of cross-border hostilities. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office declined to comment on reports that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to the text of a deal. But the senior Israeli official told Reuters that Tuesday's cabinet meeting was intended to approve the text. Israeli officials had said earlier that a deal to end the war was getting closer though some issues remained, while two senior Lebanese officials voiced guarded optimism even as Israel continued to bombard Lebanon and Hezbollah kept up rocket fire.

Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, said Israel would maintain an ability to strike southern Lebanon under any agreement. Lebanon has previously objected to wording that would grant Israel such a right. (Reuters)

Egyptian authorities say 16 people are missing, including foreigners, and 28 have been rescued after a tourist boat sank in the Red Sea.

Two of those missing are British, the BBC understands. Finland has confirmed one of their nationals is unaccounted for, while authorities say four Egyptians are also missing.

The boat with 44 people on board - including 13 crew - sent a distress signal at 05:30 (03:30 GMT), according to the governor of Red Sea province.

Authorities have not indicated the possible cause of the incident, but added accounts of people onboard mentioned a wave hit the boat and caused it to capsize. Weather forecasters had warned against marine activities for Sunday and Monday.

The Sea Story left port near Marsa Alam on Sunday for a five-day diving trip, according to officials.

Red Sea Governor MajGen Amr Hanafi said the survivors were found in the Wadi el-Gemal area, south of Marsa Alam, and that they were receiving the necessary medical care.

He added the Egyptian Navy warship El Fateh and military aircraft were intensifying their efforts to locate the missing, with rescue teams working around the clock.

On Saturday, the Egyptian Meteorological Authority forecast turbu-

lence on the Mediterranean and Red Seas due to the weather.

Wind speeds were between 37-43 mph (60-70 km/h), and wave heights were three to four metres (10-13ft) high, they said.

According to the local council in Marsa Alam, the crew of the Sea Story are all Egyptians and the tourists on board included five Spanish, four British, four Germans and two US nationals.

It is unclear who is among the rescued and who is still missing, but the Red Sea governorate's latest report said four Egyptians remained unaccounted for.

The Finnish foreign ministry confirmed to AFP news agency that one of its nationals is also among the missing.

A UK Foreign Office spokesperson said they were in contact with the authorities, and were providing "support to a number of British nationals and their families following an incident in Egypt".

The Chinese embassy in Egypt confirmed two of its nationals were "in good health" after being rescued, according to their state media, as reported by AFP news agency. Meanwhile, Polish foreign ministry spokesman Pawel Wronski, told staterun Polish news agency PAP that authorities had information that two Polish citizens may have been aboard the boat. (BBC)

US President-elect Donald Trump

A view showing the moment of an Israeli strike on a building, amid the ongoing hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces in the Chiyah district of Beirut's southern suburbs, Lebanon, November 25, 2024 (REUTERS/Adnan Abidi)

Pay attention to where your money goes. Look at the big picture, take advantage of free mental resources and put your energy into personal gain and self-improvement.

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Weigh the pros and cons before you delve into something you don't need, don't want or can't benefit from. Refuse to let anyone lure you down a path that turns you into a helping hand. Take control and be happy.

Put your power of persuasion to good use. Keep an eye on anyone who lacks common sense or wants you to overspend on something you can do without. Embrace love with passion, not with jealousy.

Get off the fence and into the nitty-gritty of making things happen. Socialize, network and share your thoughts with people who can offer a unique perspective.

You'll be drawn to someone charismatic and bold who tends to exaggerate. Make fact-checking part of your routine and question any information or work quote you receive.

Explore what's available to you and expand your knowledge before discussing options with someone you are considering hiring or working alongside. Stick to your budget.

Accidents will happen when you take on too much, act in haste and don't leave yourself enough wiggle room to backtrack. The less outside influence, the better the results.

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India Tour of Australia 2024/25: Test 1 of 5…

India give Australia 295-run thrashing

Completing a remarkable turnaround, India wrapped up a famous Test victory at Optus Stadium with a 295run victory over Australia in a one-sided result set to cause aftershocks in the latest tussle for the BorderGavaskar Trophy.

tially a formality through out the fourth day despite counterattacking knocks from Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. India's deserved victory was official just after tea when Harshit Rana knocked over Alex Carey as they drew first blood in the fivematch series.

spinners R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja being left out, were vindicated.

Bumrah, particularly, deserves a lot of credit for galvanising a new-look team and he led from the front with a mesmerising

well on the opening day, Australia's bowling wilted in India's second innings with captain Pat Cummins enduring a rare off match. Cummins had not played a red-ball match since March, preferring his se-

chasing down a record 534 runs were forlorn but they aimed to at least muster some spirit which had seemingly been broken over the last couple of days.

After a golden duck in the first innings, having returned to his favoured No. 4 position, Steven Smith fronted up to his nemesis Bumrah, who on the first ball of the day's play had a loud lbw appeal turned

orable perfor mance from India, who drew on a he roic effort from standin captain Jasprit Bumrah. He claimed eight wickets for the match, while Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli produced outstanding centuries in India's second innings to decimate a flagging Australia.

India had largely been written off after an unprecedented 3-0 home whitewash against New Zealand. They entered the series-opener without having played an official match on tour and were shorthanded without captain Rohit Sharma and injured batter Shubman Gill. Under intense pressure, coach Gautam Gambhir made the right moves and the brave selection calls, which included veteran

fielders as pressure built. Smith's 60-ball resistance ended when he nicked off a superb back of a length delivery from a pumped-up Siraj that straightened off the seam and caught the edge.

After a tough return to bowling, where his modestly-paced seamers were

the match after they had been bundled out for 150 having won the toss.

There is set to be recriminations for Australia, who underwhelmed in their first Test since March's New Zealand tour. There will be questions raised over the limited preparations of a number of players.

Australia's misfiring top-order will be particularly under the spotlight, especially No. 3 Marnus Labuschagne who scored 5 runs in the match to continue a lengthy form slump. Having started so

from 40.4 overs.

Australia appeared flummoxed with the changing conditions of the pitch, which was spicy on day one before flattening out for most of day two and three. Cracks did widen as the match wore on and created up-and-down bounce to make batting difficult on the fourth day.

Resuming at 12 for 3, after a disastrous start amid the shadows late on day three, Australia confronted an India attack eyeing to finish things off quickly.

Australia's hopes of

down although in an anti-climax it was a no-ball.

Smith was relieved when he got off the mark on his fourth delivery with a trademark drive through the covers. But Australia's woes reared in the next over after opener Usman Khawaja fell off the first short ball of the day's play when he top-edged quick Mohammed Siraj and was caught by wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant running back.

Having had lbw issues recently, Smith made a technical adjustment and his trigger movement was not as pronounced as in the first innings when Bumrah pinned him in front of the stumps. Smith still faced a battle and copped a painful blow in the ribs from debutant quick Rana that left him on his back and in agony.

He bravely continued batting and combined well with Head, who backed his aggressive instincts and counterattacked as they produced Australia's first half-century partnership of the match.

India dried up the scoring for Smith with Bumrah packing the legside with

tacked any width and continually flayed through the offside, while Marsh struck several lusty aerial blows in a speedy half-century partnership.

But Bumrah returned and he produced a superb back of a length delivery that caught Head's edge on 89 and prompted impas-

treated with disdain on day three by India's batters, Marsh hoped to finish his home Test match strongly.

He was all at sea before the lunch break and hit on the gloves several times but managed to hang in. Marsh and Head, who both entered the match with a limited build-up having been on paternity leave, made batting look relatively easy after the interval in a time of day that had been the best for batting through the match.

Head motored towards a century and as per usual at-

sioned celebrations from Kohli.

Marsh also missed a milestone when on 47 he chopped on to allrounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who capped an impressive debut with his first Test wicket. Mitchell Starc was sharply held at short leg, giving Washington Sundar his first wicket of the match, and it wasn't long before India claimed a victory they will saviour for some time as the pressure starts to intensify on Australia.

(ESPNCricinfo)

India celebrating their victory

Mohammed Siraj removed Usman Khawaja in his first over of the day

Travis Head edged behind for an excellent 89

Bangladesh Tour of the West Indies 2024/25:

West Indies on cusp of victory despite Taskin’s six-for

– Thanks to efforts of Roach, Seales

The West Indies are three wickets away from clinching the Antigua Test against Bangladesh, the visitors having ended the fourth day on 109 for 7 after being set a target of 334. Kemar Roach and Jayden Seales have led the way for the hosts with three wickets each, as the Bangladesh specialist batters failed to put together a performance for the umpteenth time this year.

Mominul Haque. Da Silva first dropped a chance down the leg side, then Mikyle Louis couldn't hold on to a straightforward one at gully. Mominul didn’t last long, as Roach took a superb caughtand-bowled from his drive in the next over; but Shamar's bad luck continued at the other end.

Alick Athanaze dropped Mehidy Hasan Miraz at second slip, with the Bangladesh captain on 14. And Litton Das cut one uppishly, only for Seales to get a hand on it at backward point. However, Shamar's ex asperation at having four catches dropped off his bowling didn't last too long; he had Litton caught at fine leg for 22,

ing with good fortune, despite the declaration surprise. Shahadat, at first slip, dropped captain Kraigg Brathwaite on 9; and Taskin slammed an inswinger into the front pad of Louis with the next ball, but umpire Kumar Dharmasena said Louis was not out. Replays showed he was plumb in front, but Bangladesh hadn't taken the review.

West Indies themselves couldn't put up a bigger target, being bowled out for 152 in the second innings. Taskin Ahmed got his maiden five-wicket haul in Tests, as he finished with 6 for 64. This development has come on the back of Bangladesh's surprise declaration on the fourth morning, despite being 181 runs behind West Indies' first-innings total of 450 for 9. Bangladesh's batters could not repay their bowlers. Both their openers got

to reduce Bangladesh to 59 for 5 in the 18th over.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz was the only one fighting for Bangladesh. He rode out the short-ball barrage and kept the scoreboard moving. He made 45 off 46 balls, with

his next over when the opener was caught behind for 8. Taskin then had Keacy Carty caught at third slip as further reward for his excellent line and length in his first spell. Brathwaite then guided Shoriful Islam to second slip in the following over, as the visitors' decision to declare got an early vindication.

Kavem Hodge and Alick Athanaze nearly got the West Indies out of trouble when they struck eight fours on either side of the lunch break, but just when they had added 50 for the fourth wicket, Bangladesh struck three times in as many overs.

A beautiful delivery from Taskin, which nipped slightly away, had Hodge caught behind for 15. It was also Litton Das's 100th catch in Tests. Mehidy then removed

time there were no verbal exchange be tween the two. Da Silva followed suit by getting two fours off Taskin's next over. He then struck Taijul for a straight six, but the left-arm spinner got one to get big on him, and Da Silva gave a catch to point.

Alzarri then holed out to short fine leg, after top edging Mehidy. He had earlier sur vived a similar top edge, but it was a relatively difficult chance, and Mominul had dropped it. Mominul had also earlier dropped Carty at short

Kemar Roach took three wickets on the fourth day

cover, but it was all forgotten when Taskin yorked Shamar to complete his first five-for. He finished up the West Indies innings when Mehidy took a brilliant diving catch at mid-off, after Roach was deceived by a Taskin’s slower ball. Bangladesh batters could not, however, be inspired by their bowlers, as they crumbled on the fourth day.

(ESPNCricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

West Indies 2nd Innings

Kraigg Brathwaite (c) c Mahmudul

Hasan Joy b Shoriful Islam 23

Mikyle Louis c †Litton Das b Taskin Ahmed 8

Keacy Carty c Mahmudul

Hasan Joy b Taskin Ahmed 3

Kavem Hodge c †Litton Das

b Taskin Ahmed 15

Alick Athanaze lbw b Mehidy Hasan Miraz 42

Justin Greaves b Taskin Ahmed 2

Joshua Da Silva † c sub (Hasan Murad) b Taijul Islam 22

Bangladesh 2nd Innings (T: 334 runs)

Mahmudul Hasan Joy c Greaves b Seales 6

Zakir Hasan b Roach 0 Mominul Haque c & b Roach 11 Shahadat Hossain c †Da

Silva b Roach 4

Litton Das † AS Joseph b S Joseph 22

Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c) c †Da Silva b Seales 45

Jaker Ali not out 15

Taijul Islam b Seales 4 Hasan Mahmud not out 0

Alzarri Joseph c Jaker Ali b

Mehidy Hasan Miraz 17

Kemar Roach c Mehidy Hasan Miraz b Taskin Ahmed 12

Shamar Joseph b Taskin Ahmed 4

Jayden Seales not out 1

(b 1, lb 2) 3

46.1 Ov (RR: 3.29) 152 1-25 (Mikyle Louis, 4.5 ov), 2-35 (Keacy Carty, 10.4 ov), 3-39 (Kraigg Brathwaite, 11.2 ov), 4-89 (Kavem Hodge, 30.4 ov), 5-93 (Alick Athanaze, 31.3 ov), 6-95 (Justin Greaves, 32.4 ov), 7-124 (Joshua Da Silva, 36.4 ov), 8-144 (Alzarri Joseph, 41.5 ov), 9-151 (Shamar Joseph, 44.5 ov), 10-152 (Kemar Roach, 46.1 ov)

Extras (nb 1, w 1) 2

Total 31 Ov (RR: 3.51) 109/7

Yet to bat: Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam

Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Zakir Hasan, 0.5 ov), 2-7 (Mahmudul Hasan Joy, 3.6 ov), 3-20 (Shahadat Hossain, 10.5 ov), 4-23 (Mominul Haque, 12.2 ov), 5-59 (Litton Das, 17.4 ov), 6-102 (Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 27.3 ov), 7-108 (Taijul Islam, 29.4 ov)

Bowling O - M - R - W Kemar Roach 8 - 1 - 20 - 3

Jayden Seales 9 - 3 - 31 - 3

Shamar Joseph 6 - 1 - 22 - 1

Alzarri Joseph 5 - 0 - 24 - 0 Justin Greaves 3 - 1 - 12 - 0

Mehidy Hasan Miraz

Alick Athanaze top-scored for West Indies in a rocky second innings

Mehidy Hasan Miraz tried to keep Bangladesh from collapsing

Load The Kilos Classic…

Romeo Hunter snares Sub-Junior, Open gold and bronze medals

Australian cricket agency

Sophie Clair Management aims to give Myhiem Khan opportunities – Founder Sophie McIlwain

CGompeting for the first time since he migrated to the USA a few months ago, Guyana’s squat gold medalist at the 2023 World Sub-Junior and Junior Championships, Romeo Hunter has continued to prove that he is top class athlete.

Competing at the Load The Kilos Classic in Houston, Texas on Sunday last with the blessings of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation, the 18 year-old Hunter, with a bodyweight of 74.48kg, captured a gold and bronze competing in the 83kg Men's Raw Sub-Junior and Open, classes.

Despite being the lightest competitor at 74.48kg in the 83kg weight class, Hunter proved again that he can dominate his SubJunior peers and even opted to compete with the big guys in the open category and proved that he can finish on the podium even amongst the big guys.

His lifts of Squat: 265kg, Bench Press: 157.5kg, Deadlift: 240kg and Total: 662.5kg was good enough for the Sub-Junior gold medal and the Open, bronze medal.

Initially Hunter had planned to enter the 74kg category, but because most of the competitors were in the 83kg division on compe-

tition day, he decided to face the bulk of the rivalry. Hunter said he was pleased with his accomplishment and will continue to train consistently as he will be representing the Golden Arrowhead come 2025 on the world stage once again where he has unfinished business to complete.

Meanwhile, the GAPLF will be hosting its Senior Championships on Sunday December 8, at Saint Stanislaus College Auditorium where exciting action is set to unfold as the Federation brings the curtains down on another successful year for the sport.

Republic Bank U18 League… West Ruimveldt, Chase win in Round 6

uyanese U19 all-rounder Myhiem Khan, who has several outstanding achievements to his credit, is among top cricketers to be signed by the Sophie Clair Management, an Australian promotional agency that provides exposure on a global scale.

that journey and provide op portunities for him to grow, experience, and to make a great living. His future is bright.

Guyanese cricketers Niall Smith, Junior Sinclair, Shemar Joseph, Sheneta Grimmond and Shemaine Campbell are among West Indian players represented by this agency; whose founder, Sophie McIlwain, in an exclusive interview with Guyana Times Sport, has spoken about Myhiem's potential and the assistance she has promised towards his growth.

She said, “I've just started representing him, and it's an absolute honour. He's got a great attitude, but I've really only just started representing him. The future is definitely on his doorstep, and destiny awaits; so, I'm really excited.

“First of all, it is my absolute pleasure to represent young men and women who are chasing positive aspirations…Myhiem is a young man with a winning personality. I can see the focus, discipline and self-belief that I have seen in some truly great players, legends of the game. I am here to support

“I spoke to Myhiem’s coach today, and it is great to see that there are so many people who believe in him already and are nurturing his potential. Chasing a cricket dream takes a lot of sacrifices, and it also takes a whole army of people to assist – coaches, family, sponsors, and a good agent. I am here to be a big part of that army.”

Declaring that her aim is to see young Guyanese players receive opportu nities that are similar to what international counter parts receive, she said, “I am from Australia, and I see that many Caribbean play ers have fought so many battles before they even get on the cricket field. I am here to help them with that fight – and I am certainly here to ensure that every opportunity that is available is grabbed with both hands by Myhiem.

dreams; and (it is) a responsibility I take seriously.”

“I want to see young players in Guyana receive the same kind of sponsorship and support that young Aussie cricketers have the privilege of receiving, with much fewer hurdles! So, over the next months and years, I will be working hard to see that Myhiem and oth-

In the recently concluded National T20 League, Khan played as a member of the Essequibo Jaguars, and his lethal abilities with the ball caused his team to complete the league as runners-up. Although, regrettably, they did not win the title, he was recipient of the tournament's "most catches award", took four wickets for 33 runs, and led his side to a three-wicket victory in their last group match.

(Omar McKenzie)

he ultimate showdown of secondary school football teams would take place on Sunday at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground on Carifesta Avenue, when a virtual final of the Republic Bank Under-18 Schools’ Football League is contested between Chase’s Academic Foundation and Dolphin Secondary.

Round 6 of this league was wrapped up at the same venue on Sunday evening with both teams so far being unbeaten, and, as such, the champion would be decided when they meet for the first time in this tournament in the seventh and final round.

Round 6 was filled with thrills, and with South Ruimveldt Secondary, West Ruimveldt Secondary and defending champions Chase’s Academic Foundation all finding themselves in the winners’ row.

A Jeremiah Glasgow brace was instrumental for South Ruimveldt Secondary, as they went on to defeat a hapless President’s College 4-0, they being yet to win a game in this year’s tournament.

Glasgow found the back of the net in the 22nd and 33rd minutes, but not before Seon Grant had opened the scoring for South in the 11th minute. An own goal in the 35th minute compounded the misery for President’s College even as it boosted South Ruimveldt’s win.

Then it was back to their losing ways for East Ruimveldt Secondary, who suffered a 10-1 drubbing at the hands of West Ruimveldt Secondary. East Ruimveldt struck first through Jahiem Kendall in the 13th minute, but two hattricks off the boots of Donovan Welcome and Elijah Sattaur put

Scenes from Round 6 of the Republic Bank U18 League

that in the rearview for West Ruimveldt. Welcome found the back of the net in the 30th, 60th and 65th minutes, while Sattaur beat the keeper in the 41st, 43rd and 70th minutes.

Meanwhile, Jeremiah Griffith secured a brace in the 23rd and 26th minutes, alongside a solitary goal off the boots of Ozim Lewis in the 48th and an own goal in the 31st that accounted for West Ruimveldt’s 10. The final game of the day saw Chase’s Academic Foundation overcoming an early obstacle to pull off a 3-1 victory against Waramuri Secondary.

Waramuri’s Rondell Peters stunned the already depleted Chase’s Academy side (owing to national duties) with a goal in just the 2nd minute of the game, and the equalizer did not come until the 37th minute, when Neeiaz Baksh’s strike levelled the scores. Baksh returned in the 48th minute to hand Chase’s Academy the lead, and Bryan Wharton found the back of the net in the 64th minute for Chase’s third goal.

With both teams now on a perfect 18 points from 6 games played, Chase’s Academic Foundation and Dolphin Secondary are expected to leave it all on the pitch on Sunday, December 1, when they hunt glory in the final round of the Republic Bank League.

While Chase would need either a win or a draw to retain their title, Dolphin Secondary could uplift the Championship Trophy only with an outright win.

The Republic Bank League is also supported by Guyana Beverage Inc under their Busta Brand, and by MVP Sports and Tiger Rentals.

“Really excited about it”

relishing ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League

T20 start today

Amonumental showdown will engulf the Guyana National Stadium, Providence East Bank Demerara (EBD) tonight when the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League T20 inaugural match edition bowls off with the best of world’s short- for at talent on show.

Two talented sides in the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) and Pakistan’s Lahore Qalandars will meet at 19:00hrs, promising a tantalizing clash for the usually boisterous Guyanese fans.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors are coming off of a stellar Caribbean Premier League (CPL) after lifting the championship in 2023. On the other hand, the Qalandars fell short in this year’s Pakistan Super League (PSL) but lifted back to back championships in 2022 and 2023.

As such, a clash of redemption is on the cards tonight.

On the eve of the clash, GAW Captain Imran Tahir expressed his excitement at heading out for another

campaign with his team.

“Look, first of all, I'm really honored to be given this opportunity personally, and I want to congratulate President Irfaan Ali and and Ramroop for putting this thing together. I think it's a great opportunity for local guys and the guys who joined us from all over Caribbean, and for the youngsters who's going to watch this competition going forward. So, I think we are all very ex-

cited as a team. Personally, myself, it's a very big thing, you know, it's a new league, and I'm leading the team so, only thing I can say, I really look forward to it. And, yeah, just want to play a brand of cricket that we normally play, and then we’re really

looking forward to playing in front of our home crowd who always come and support us. So we’re really, really excited about it,” Tahir shared with media operatives on Monday evening. Responding to inquiries about any pressure he may feel while competing solely

at home, the GAW Captain responded, “Anything you do in life, you have pressure on you. So, I think how you take the pressure, positive and negative [is important]. But if I say, well, I'm not gonna feel any pressure, I think I'm wrong, there will be some pressure, because we've got a good team and we’re playing home. So, we have a lot of advantages, but still, we have to play really, really good cricket to win this

competition. Players coming from all over the world, obviously, they’re good players, any anybody on any day, can win you the game. And you know, that's how these formats work. But I have no doubt in our team’s ability and the hard work we put together as a team.”

Tonight’s clash between the Amazon Warriors and Lahore Qalandars will bowl of at19:00hrs this evening.

Members of the Guyana Amazon Warriors team took a photo opportunity with President Dr Irfaan Ali ahead of his brainchild tournament, the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20. To his left is Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana

The Lahore Qalandars, pictured alongside President Dr Irfaan Ali, will be worthy opponents of local Franchise the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) tonight in the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 bowl-off. Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana, is also in photo