Guyana explores partnership with Sesame Street to produce educational content for kids
working with GRO to verify removal of deceased persons from voters' list …over 6900 new voters added to NRR during 2nd phase continuous registration
79th UNGA/Summit of the Future
Climate finance commitments can no longer be postponed – Pres Ali to world leaders
…says US$90B in global finance needed by 2030 for social safety net
Guyana, US strengthen partnership on regional security, territorial integrity
Govt writes off $203M in UG student loans GMC, crusher run procurement among 700 projects under audit
3 Bartica drivers fined $200,000 for DUI
2 women slapped with attempted murder charge …man charged for assault Audit Office submits 2023 AG report 1 week before statutory deadline
Chinese Medical Brigade to help improve services at regional health facilities – Anthony
Local artistes voice urgency for stronger copyright laws
Corporal punishment, drug abuse, sexual violence rampant among children – ROC Chair
3 detectives complete degree in legal sport of national security
President of Guyana, Dr Irfaan Ali and US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken during the meeting on Monday (Office of the President photo)
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2024 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Tuesday, September 24 –21:15h-22:45h and Wednesday, September 25 – 22:45h-00:15h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Tuesday, September 24 –09:05h-10:35h and Wednesday, September 25 – 10:40h-12:10h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
GECOM working with GRO to verify removal of deceased persons from voters' list
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
Winds: North-Easterly
…over 6900 new voters added to NRR during 2nd phase continuous registration
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is taking significant steps to ensure the integrity of the upcoming 2025 elections by working closely with the General Register Office (GRO) to verify deaths and remove deceased individuals from the Official List of Electors (OLE).
As the elections body continues to work to remove names from the list, it has seen the addition of over 6900 new voters thus far from the second phase of the continuous registration exercise currently ongoing.
Speaking with Guyana Times on Monday, GECOM Commissioner, Clement Rohee, shared that the commission is currently discussing methodology to use to deal with the ques -
called-for issues, [such as] challenge to the person still being alive. If we are able to deal with that successfully then we will be able to take a number of names off the list in keeping with what the constitution dictates how it should happen because we can't just take a person unilaterally off the voters list.”
During the claims and objections period, constituents have the opportunity to contest the inclusion of deceased individuals on the OLE. Families or other residents can present necessary documentation to GECOM to validate their claims, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the electoral roll. The last claims and objections exercise ran from July 2 to July 15, while the continuous registration process currently
registration in the farflung communities, however this is being handled to ensure no voter is disen -
tion of deceased persons on the list. Rohee emphasised that this initiative is crucial for maintaining an accurate voter registry.
“We’re working with the General Register Office so that the names of deceased persons are not included on the lists being prepared for the next elections,” he stated, highlighting that GECOM is stringently ensuring thoroughness of the process to avoid any disputes regarding living voters.”
“The claims and objection period helps us to deal with this question of deceased persons being on the list. There's a lot of collaboration being done to ensure that we do it the right way. We don't want to run into any un -
underway is set to last until November 29, 2024.
As of September 20, 2024, GECOM’s Public Relations (PR) Officer Yolanda Warde reported that 6,941 new voters have registered. Additionally, there have been 2,614 applications for address changes, 1,800 requests for changes in personal particulars, 6,600 applications for replacement ID cards, and 705 requests for photo retakes.
Rohee noted that coming out of the new registration exercise, GECOM is looking to increase the resources to ensure effective registration and verification in remote hinterland communities.
Rohee noted that there has been challenges with
franchised.
“We’re seeing how best we can verify addresses for persons who wish to be registered, but living in the deep interior. Sometimes the persons are
working days away from home so when the GECOM person goes to their village they don’t see the person or meet the person. So, we need to spend more time in the community rather than just rushing in and rushing out,” he said, indicating that additional resources—both personnel and financial—will be deployed to ensure no eligible voter is marginalised.
“Those things should not pose a problem because you don't want to disenfranchise anyone. You want everyone who could be located, be registered in order to be allowed to exercise their franchise”.
World Tourism Day 2024 brings to the forefront a global theme that resonates deeply in a world of increasing interconnectedness: “Tourism and Peace: Embracing Peace through Diversity and Inclusion.”
As we reflect on the role of tourism in fostering peace, this year’s theme highlights the transformative power of travel to break down barriers, promote understanding, and create a more harmonious world by embracing the richness of diverse cultures, experiences, and perspectives.
Tourism has always been a bridge that connects people, cultures, and nations. When done right, it serves as a powerful force for peace and development. Travellers have the unique opportunity to step beyond their borders – whether they are geographical, cultural, or social – and immerse themselves in new worlds. This exchange fosters mutual respect, dismantles stereotypes, and nurtures empathy, making tourism a key player in peacebuilding efforts.
In the context of Guyana, known for its rich cultural diversity and untouched natural beauty, tourism plays an integral role in promoting not only economic development but also social unity. Guyana embodies diversity in its truest form. Celebrating this cultural mosaic allows this country to highlight how tourism can bridge divides and create understanding among people of different backgrounds.
The tourism sector in Guyana has been growing; with the country’s vast rainforests, pristine waterfalls, and exotic wildlife drawing attention on the global stage. Eco-tourism, in particular, has positioned Guyana as a sustainable destination for those seeking nature and adventure while being conscious of environmental preservation. Kaieteur Falls, the Rupununi Savannahs, the Iwokrama Rainforest, and the remote Amerindian villages offer tourists unparalleled access to nature’s wonders while interacting with the Indigenous communities whose stewardship preserves these ecosystems.
Guyana’s cultural tourism is just as compelling. The Amerindian Heritage Month, celebrated every September –as currently being celebrated – is a perfect example of how the nation honours its Indigenous roots, offering visitors a glimpse into the traditions, art, and lifestyle of the country’s First Peoples. This year’s theme, “Many Voices, One Song,” is aligned with the global message of inclusion, as it calls for unity in diversity—a principle at the core of tourism’s peacebuilding potential.
Guyana’s tourism industry is uniquely positioned to serve as an encouragement of peace through diversity. The inclusion of Indigenous communities in the tourism value chain, particularly through community-based tourism initiatives, exemplifies the idea of inclusion. These initiatives not only provide economic opportunities but also give visitors authentic cultural experiences while preserving the very traditions that make Guyana so unique.
As the world embraces the theme of “Tourism and Peace,” Guyana stands as an example of how tourism can foster peaceful co-existence. Each visitor who leaves with a deeper appreciation of Guyana’s culture, history, and people becomes an ambassador of peace, spreading the values of tolerance, understanding, and inclusivity back to their home countries.
However, for tourism to continue playing this critical role, investment in infrastructure and sustainable practices is necessary.
On World Tourism Day 2024, it must be remembered that tourism is far more than a business – it is also an avenue for peace, inclusion, and understanding. In a world that often struggles with division, tourism offers a unique solution by promoting a global dialogue grounded in shared experiences. The theme “Tourism and Peace: Embracing Peace through Diversity and Inclusion,” is fitting for Guyana’s tourism industry, with its vibrant cultural landscape and commitment to sustainability.
In the words of United Nations Secretary General António Guterres, “Tourism is an opportunity for people to experience the world’s diversity and a powerful vehicle for promoting peace and sustainability.”
No, the UNGA resolution on Palestine was not a win
By Hassan aslam sHad
On September 18, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution calling for Israel to terminate its illegal occupation of Palestinian territory within one year. The vote, which concluded with 124 in favour, 12 against, and 43 abstained, has been interpreted by some as a significant triumph for Palestinian advocacy.
Yet, the fact that 54 countries (excluding Israel) – constituting about 28 per cent of all member states –did not back the resolution cannot be overlooked. It not only signifies a failure of moral courage but also underscores a pervasive hypocrisy that continues to shape global governance. In fact, it reflects continuing efforts to erode the international regime in order to ensure impunity for Israel.
The resolution in question demanded that Israel “brings to an end without delay its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory”. It reiterated the findings of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which ruled in July that Israel’s occupation was illegal, that its settlements on occupied Palestinian land are also illegal and must be dismantled, and that it needs to pay reparations for damages incurred by the Palestinians.
International law is quite clear on the question of occupation: it is a criminal act. A consensus among international scholars underscores that an occupier cannot invoke the right of self-defence against the people it occupies – an argu-
ment Israel has employed to justify its nefarious genocidal actions.
In the context of this ruling by the World Court, voting against and abstaining from voting on the UNGA resolution cannot be dismissed as mere political neutrality. By choosing not to support a resolution that re-affirms the illegality of the Israeli occupation, these nations implicitly endorse Israel’s actions and contribute to the perpetuation of a status quo marked by brutal oppression and suffering. They also openly disregard and thus attack the provisions of international law.
It is important to remember that this vote came amid a continuing Israeli aggression against Gaza and the West Bank, in which nearly 42,000 Palestinians – the majority of them women and children – have been killed and more than 100,000 injured. In January, the ICJ issued a preliminary ruling that Isreal is “plausibly” violating the Genocide Convention with its actions in Gaza. This genocidal violence is a direct consequence of the decades-long illegal Israeli occupation of Palestinian land.
The October 7 attack last year by Hamas cannot be viewed in isolation. It is rooted in decades of brutal occupation that has left Palestinians trapped in what many describe as the world’s largest open-air prison, where systemic oppression, displacement, and violence have defined millions of Palestinian lives. Understanding this context is essential to addressing the underlying issues and moving toward a just and
lasting resolution that honours the dignity and humanity of all affected.
One of the 12 countries that voted against the resolution – the United States – has been a long-time supporter of the Israeli occupation, sending billions worth of weapons to its military before and after October. For its role in arming Israel, the US has been repeatedly accused of complicity in Israeli war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Strangely, the US representative to the UN entered a “no” vote despite the fact that Judge Sarah Cleveland, who represents the US at the ICJ, voted in favour of all the court’s opinions in the July ruling.
What makes the US position even more problematic is that it has had the exact opposite stance on occupations elsewhere.
In 2022, when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine and occupied parts of its territory, Washington was at the forefront of global condemnation, sending billions in military and financial aid to the Ukrainian army. This has set a troubling double standard that other countries allied with the US have also followed.
The United Kingdom, for example, expressed “considerable concerns” about the January ICJ ruling and rejected genocide allegations against Israel. On September 18, it chose to abstain. Despite its own legal advisers warning that British weapons could be used for human rights violations in Gaza, the British Government has continued its arms shipments to the
Israeli army, suspending just 30 out of 350 arms export licences. Like Washington, London has also extended significant military support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian occupation and wholeheartedly backed investigations into war crimes committed by Russian forces.
Germany, which also abstained on September 18, is another example of a country with a troubling position. As a key supplier of arms to Israel, Germany faces serious allegations of facilitating the commission of genocide, complicating its moral standing and raising questions about its commitment to human rights. Its Government has announced plans to intervene in the main hearing of the genocide case against Israel at the ICJ, categorically rejecting the accusations of genocide without substantial justification.
While trying to block legal proceedings against Israel, Germany has accelerated investigations launched by its own justice system into war crimes committed in Ukraine.
Various other countries in Europe, Latin America, Asia and the Pacific – mostly US and NATO allies – have also either voted against the UNGA resolution or abstained, putting geopolitical considerations above international law and ethics.
The hypocrisy inherent in these geopolitical alliances raises critical questions about the integrity of the global legal framework.
Actor Jacob Scipio made a courtesy visit to Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond at her South Road, Georgetown office on Monday. Scipio, recognised for his roles in popular productions like Bad Boys for Life, Bad Boys Ride or Die, and Netflix’s Pieces of Her, is visiting Guyana for the first time. Born in Islington, London, to a Guyanese father, Ricardo Scipio, and an English mother, Sallyann Sexton, he plans to visit Leguan, the birthplace of both his father and grandfather (Tourism Ministry photo)
Irfaan will win next elections against Norton
Dear Editor,
Election is not due until November 2025. But if an election is called soon, incumbent president Irfaan Ali will defeat opposition leader Aubrey Norton. But the government faces challenges not the least being rising cost of living, crime, allegations of corruption, unpopular ministers and other officials, among other issues. Ali and
Bharrat Jagdeo are addressing these issues. The public is fixated on high cost of living and crime with ‘politics’ (voting) far removed from their thought. People are more concerned about rising food prices and putting food on the table than on voting. Nevertheless, the ruling PPP leads the opposition in popular support. The leader of the opposi-
tion who is also leader of the People’s National Congress (PNC), Mr. Aubrey Norton, is very unpopular among the party’s traditional base and nationally unlike Mr. Irfaan Ali who still has strong support within the PPP’s base and enjoys national appeal. Supporters of the PNC have been gravitating towards the AFC led by Mr. Nigel Hughes who has also been attracting
cross-over appeal; some PNC supporters have also crossed over to the PPP. These were some other trends obtained from engagements of voters in late July and August by this writer.
On polarisation, it is found that some Africans, who traditionally vote PNC, have crossed over to the PPP because of Irfaan Ali’s likability and efforts to woo
A simple matter being transformed into a political campaign story
Dear Editor, I pause here to comment on a matter that is in the media, that is, the altercation between a prominent educator and another individual.
As the story goes, there was a frank exchange of words, which was issued from a free and fair exchange between the two parties. Now, one of the two became so enraged that he marched to a particular print media house to vent his frustration, his contention is, he was severely disrespected, which in a Guyanese context, race and politics raises its ugly head. From that very moment the matter entered into that phase.
Now, that altercation issue somehow reached the attention of the Minister of Youth and Culture, who, according to the complainant, gave his views on the educators handling of the matter, please note the minister is duly responsible to give
his opinion of the matter. However, the minister's response did not sit well with him, so he again approached social media for redress, as he continued in that vein of thought that he was racially and politically victimised. Now, background checks would reveal that the terms of his contract came to an end in the month wherein which the said incident occurred, note well, contracts are renewable, however, this individual was so full of it, that his political mindset took control of him and everything else was seen through those lenses. Hence, every person in that parameter automatically became an assailant.
The end to this drama came when he was assumedly advised that his services can be renewed.
Now follow the narrative in two of the daily tabloids "Thom asked to resume duties as Burrowes head af-
ter resignation sparked, by run in with Ramson."
Another newspaper stated emphatically that ministers of government should refrain themselves from making comments pertaining to public officials; pretty strong words coming from the usual suspects. It goes on to say it is undignified, unnecessary and ultimately damaging to the governance structure.
This reeks of bullyism and the political stance taken by the political drama queens of the day, in their book they are free to do as they please with no control to their actions, while the employer government should remain silent, docile and submissive.
This encapsulates the whole motive behind the educator's story of being racially abused by a member of the public (Presumably a relative of the minister) as well as being subjected to
the highhanded actions of a minister of government.
The point is whether the educator's story is true, which I strongly deny, this is what he needs to know, Minister Ramson is an astute lawyer who would not be drawn into a political squabble with a misinformed individual. This matter could have been long settled, if only The Burrowes School Head kept his personal and political hangups out of it.
Finally, as we get closer to elections, politically charged stories like this one would show up, each time with a more colourful flare to it, however, I here caution those opposition forces and persons acting under their influence, to get a proper campaign entertainment story, that we can believe.
Respectfully,
Neil Adams
No, the UNGA resolution on Palestine...
Why is it that violations committed by Israel, an ally of powerful Western nations, are met with silence or insufficient condemnation and others are not? This inconsistency not only deepens the divisions between the West and the Global South, but also damages the legitimacy of international law and its ability to prevent atrocities.
The more Israel is shielded by these countries, the more it flouts international law without fear of consequences and the more brutal and deadly its abuses become. And its violations do not only affect the Palestinian population. This pattern of impunity undermines the foundational principles of justice and accountability and encourages others to engage in such crimes.
The abstention of 43 countries and the opposition from 11 others regarding the UNGA resolution send a clear message to the world: there are “no rules”. This alarming trend suggests that nations with
powerful militaries can act unilaterally, disregarding international law without consequence. If we fail to halt this erosion of the legal regime, we risk descending into a world governed by the “law of the jungle”.
Such a breakdown of international law would have catastrophic implications for human civilisation. It would foster a climate where the powerful can trample on the rights of the weak, perpetuating cycles of violence and oppression. The hypocrisy evident in the global response to the Palestinian plight exemplifies this dangerous disregard for justice and accountability. As these 54 countries continue to turn a blind eye to grave violations, the foundations of global order are threatened.
To restore faith in international law, countries must prioritise human rights over strategic interests. This requires a unified front from the international community. Nations must hold each other accountable for their actions and speak out against viola-
tions, regardless of political affiliations or alliances. A true commitment to justice necessitates that the principles of international law be applied consistently and without bias.
Only through decisive action can the ideals of international law be upheld and the world saved from
a dark, lawless future. (Al Jazeera)
(Hassan Aslam Shad is an international lawyer and graduate of Harvard Law School. He is the first person from the Muslim world to have interned with the President of the International Criminal Court, The Hague.)
them. But it is too early to tell whether they will vote for the PPP cup. Hardly any Indians have expressed a preference for the PNC (APNU).
Some Africans and Mixed who are disenchanted with PNC leadership are crossing over to PPP. Voters nationally are not pleased with Aubrey Norton’s leadership. Africans in particular are not satisfied with his leadership of the PNC party and the APNU alliance. He is facing a similar predicament that befell Robert Corbin almost two decades ago when traditional supporters rejected his leadership and went over to the AFC. If an election is called soon, the PNC will find itself repeating the result of the 2006 election when many of the party’s supporters walked away, rejecting then party leader Robert Corbin as Presidential candidate. The PNC lost several seats putting in its worst performance in its history. In 2011, the base returned when the party made David Granger leader and Presidential candidate. Granger went on to
win the 2015 elections. The current trends show that incumbent Irfaan Ali will easily win re-election as President with the PPP picking up seats providing the PNC (APNU) goes into the election separated from AFC and with Aubrey Norton as the opposition presidential candidate. Norton trails Ali and Hughes in favourability rating. Ali has a high positive favourability rating compared with Norton’s negative net ratings. If the opposition is united and if there is another likable Presidential candidate for the combined opposition, the contest will be very competitive. Ali is a populist traveling around the country effectively using massive state resources to share around and build goodwill among the population. He is retaining the bulk of the party’s 2020 support base and gaining new supporters among Africans and Amerindians with the election still more than a year away.
Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
Page Foundation
Question 1
Module test
(a) How much does Pat save?
(b) How much does she spend on food/clothing and entertainment altogether?
(c) What is Pat's weekly wage?
(d) How much would Pat earn in two weeks?
Invisible Extinguisher
Materials:
Tall drinking glass or 16 oz plastic cup
Short drinking glass or 9 oz plastic cup
Tea light
Matches or lighter
Instructions:
Place tea lights in the short drinking glass
Using a long match or safety lighter, light the tea light while leaving it in the glass
In the tall glass, pour 1/2 cup vinegar
Slowly sprinkle 1/2 tsp of bak-
ing soda into the tall glass containing the vinegar. You can dump it all in at once, but be ready for a big eruption!
Let the reaction slow down until the foam has disappeared.
Slowly tilt the tall glass on its side over the tea light as if you were pouring the air over it.
If the flame doesn’t go out on your first try, pour another scoop of baking soda into the vinegar and repeat steps five and six.
How it works:
The baking soda-vinegar reaction results in a gas called Carbon Dioxide (CO2). CO2 is more dense than nor-
By Ovid
Knew danger when she saw it. She proclaimed
mal air, which means that it will sink! Because CO2 sinks, it stays in the cup instead of floating away like a normal mix of air would. This means you have a cup full of CO2! The candle burns thanks to a combustion reaction that requires Oxygen (O2), something we find in abundance in the air around us. When you pour your cup of CO2 into the cup containing the candle, the CO2 sinks to the bottom of the cup and surrounds the candle. This displaces (or pushes up) all the normally mixed air, along with all that O2 the fire needs to burn. And voila! Your candle is extinguished invisibly! (sciencefun.org)
The command of the goddess from a safe distance.
The whole speech only took a minute or so––Yet a swoon of hunger left her trembling.
She got away fast.
All the way back to Thessaly She gave the dragons their head. Now hear me.
Though Hunger lives only in opposition To Ceres, yet she obeys her. She soars through darkness
Across the earth, to the house of Erysichthon And bends above the pillow where his face
Snores with open mouth. Her skeletal embrace goes around him. Her shrunk mouth clamps over his mouth And she breathes TRANSLATED BY
WORD SEARCH:
79th UNGA/Summit of the Future
Climate finance commitments can no longer be postponed – Pres Ali to world leaders
… says US$90B in global finance needed by 2030 for social safety net
ith as much as
WUS$90 billion in global finance needed by 2030 to provide for social safety nets in countries, particularly those vulnerable to climate change, President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Monday made an urgent call for global action on climate finance while addressing the Summit of the Future.
During his address at the summit, which is being held in New York and is being hosted by the United Nations (UN) at its 79th General Assembly, President Ali listed important prerequisites for achieving the 2030 agenda. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development was adopted since 2015 and for some time there has been criticism on the global stage that enough is not being done to achieve the 17 goals set out.
“Meeting the climate finance commitments can no longer be postponed. Forests are an integral part of the climate solution and it is time that the global market-based mechanism for carbon credit, be put in place,” President Ali said in a stark warning.
More than 80 per cent of Guyana’s 18 million hectares of forests are estimated to store approximately 20 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent and the country continues to be carbon negative, even while producing oil.
In December 2022, Guyana signed a historic contract with Hess Corporation for the sale of 33.7 million of its high-quality certified carbon credits –a deal that saw the nation earning US$750 million for just 30 per cent of its forest.
In the agreement, a rate of US$15 per tonne of carbon was secured and the Guyana Government had allocated 15 per cent ($4.7 billion) towards Amerindian development. This was subsequently raised to 24 per cent by the government this year.
Food
security
President Ali also
warned about global food security, which he noted continues to deteriorate at an alarming rate. According to him, it is estimated that $90 billion in financing will be needed between now and 2030, to ensure that countries have a basic social safety net.
“If we’re not able to meet the basic needs of feeding our people, the entire agenda 2030 is in peril. It is our collective responsibility to provide the $300 to $500 billion needed to transform our global food system. Technology transfer, insurance for farmers, access to finance and fair-trade rules, are all part of the solutions,” President Ali noted.
“As we seek to create a fair and just world, we must focus on including all our people, no region, country or group must be left behind. We must do more, so that our women and youth are integral in all our decisions. The future we envision must target directly the 340 million women and girls projected to live in poverty by 2030.”
According to Ali, they must also address the 110 million women and girls who will be unable to attain an education by 2030, as well as the 24 per cent of women and girls who will be food insecure and the 245 million women and girls projected to experience gender-based violence by 2030.
“The sustainable future we build must be the means
and aspirations of the 1.3 million additional youths the world will have by 2030, ensuring sustainable development in which access to education, health and housing must be provided. We must define an implementation plan for the future, to address the challenges in building a life of dignity for every global citizen,” President Ali said.
SDGs
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. They include; Goal 1- No poverty; Goal 2- ending hunger; Goal 3- Good health and wellbeing; Goal 4; quality education; Goal 5- gender equality; Goal 6 – Potable Water, Water Sanitation and Harvesting Water; Goal 7 – Renewable Energy and Access to Energy; Goal 8; decent work and economic growth and Goal 9 – Infrastructure Industry and Innovation.
Meanwhile, the other goals are; Goal 10- reducing inequalities; Goal 11 – sustainable cities and municipalities; Goal 12- Responsible consumption and production; Goal 13- ensuring action is taken on climate change; Goal 14- conservation and sustainable use of the ocean; Goal 15- conservation and
sustainable use of resources on land; Goal 16- Peace, justice, and strong institutions, and Goal 17-strengthening global partnerships for the implementation of the SDGs.
When it comes to energy security, President Ali noted that this must be built on a platform of equity and
access to technology. He urged the world to be unified when it comes to addressing the digital divide.
And while he described Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a potentially positive game changer for humanity, he also warned of its potential to widen the gap between countries and people.
According to him, strategic planning is needed to ensure AI becomes a force for good.
“To do all of this, our public policies and global strategies must be aligned and our global institutions responsive. Outdated and broken global systems must be fixed. We must reform the international financial architecture, and make it more inclusive and conducive for sustainable development for all,” President Ali further said.
Following his address at the summit, President Ali will also be addressing the UN general debate on Wednesday, September 25. He will also take part in bilateral meetings with the President of Paraguay, Santiago Peña, Ecuadorian President, Daniel Noboa, United States (US) Secretary of State, Antony Blinken; SecretaryGeneral of the UN, António Guterres; the Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WHO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator, Samantha Power, among others. (G3)
President Dr Irfaan Ali while addressing the Summit of the Future
President Ali with World Trade Organisation Director General, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on the sidelines of the UNGA
3 Bartica drivers fined $200,000 for DUI
Three men appeared before Magistrate Tariq Mohamed in the Bartica Magistrate's Court on Monday, each charged with driving a motor vehicle while their breath alcohol levels exceeded the legal limit.
Keven Currica, a 32-year-old taxi driver from Sixth Avenue, Bartica, pleaded guilty to the offence. Magistrate Mohamed imposed a fine of $200,000, with the alternative of three months' imprisonment if the fine is not paid.
Vishall Sancharan, a 32-year-old lorry driver from Byderabo Road, Bartica, also faced the
same charge. Sancharan likewise pleaded guilty and was given the same sentence, $200,000 or three months in prison.
Additionally, 24-yearold Lonzo Narine, a cashier from First Avenue, Bartica, appeared before the court on similar charges. After
admitting guilt, Narine was handed the same penalty as the other two offenders—a $200,000 fine or a three-month prison term.
Miner on bail for cocaine, ganja possession
A46-year-old miner of Bachelor's Adventure, East Coast Demerara, appeared on Monday at the Bartica Magistrate's Court before Magistrate Teriq Mohamed to answer two charges of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to Section 5(1)(a) (i) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act, Chapter 10:10.
Mark Ramdass pleaded not guilty to both charges and was placed on $50,000 bail for each charge. The matter was adjourned to October 28.
Reports are that at about 02:00h on Sunday morning, a Police team from Regional Division Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) proceeded to Mark Ramdass' camp at Oku Backdam. Upon arrival, they found Ramdass asleep in his bed and ac-
Charged: Mark Ramdass
cording to police, ranks awoke him, and a search was conducted on the camp, during which a black plastic bag containing a bottle was found inside a pillowcase. The bottle contained several rock-like substances suspected to be cocaine, along with a number of ziplock packets containing seeds, leaves, and stems suspected to be cannabis.
The narcotics - cocaine and marijuana- were weighed, amounting to 5.4 grams of cocaine and 38.7 grams of marijuana.
Talking…
…to the world
President Ali’s gonna be addressing the UN General Assembly this Wednesday. But, this ain’t his first rodeo, is it?? This will be his fourth shot from this bully pulpit! But with all the buzz about us becoming a player on the world stage – because of our carbon-emitting oil and carbon-capturing jungles? – will there be a difference??
‘Cause your Eyewitness hasn’t seen any changes the speeches of the dozens of world leaders have made in the world since 2021. Now since this ain’t because of any fault of OUR Prezzie – all his speeches have been cogent and the points made reported widely – it gotta be something about the UNGA- in terms of fulfilling its mandate to “save succeeding generations(after WWII) from the scourge of war”! As the old saw goes… when all other explanations fail, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth!!
In 2021 and succeeding years, Prezzie raised the issue of Mad Maduro’s threats to annex two-thirds of our national territory – a claim which Venezuela had raised for the first time in 1962 at the very forum, We’d placed our fate in the UN system for settling disputes by referring the border controversy to the UN Secretary General – as per the Geneva Agreement which Venezuela had signed. In turn, the UN SG – following the dispute resolution mechanism of the UN’s Art 33 – sent it to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for a judicial resolution.
So, you’d think that when Venezuela thumbed its nose at the body and declared it didn’t recognise their jurisdiction – at a minimum they would’ve been told that their outlaw behaviour wouldn’t be tolerated. Either they agreed on the terms of reference of the UN or they don’t! Just two days before Prezzie’s speech, they’d announced “nullifying” our oil blocks award – but uncensored, then went on to actually pass a law on annexing our Essequibo!! Venezuela can’t come there to complain about how the Americans are ganging up on them when they’re doing the same thing to tiny Guyana!! Doesn’t the rule of equity that says they must come with “clean hands” apply? But we can see that the UNGA has just become a glorified talk-shop for world leaders to pontificate to the world – and have a good time in the City that never Sleeps!!
But the uselessness of the UN was made clear when Pres Biden announced the US wasn’t pursuing any Cold War against China – yet imposed sanctions on semiconductors. Russia spoke about world peace and then invaded Ukraine less than six months later!! And China keeps threatening Taiwan!!
Now your Eyewitness isn’t saying that Prezzie shouldn’t be speaking at the UNGA. Just that we shouldn’t hold our breath for anything to come out of it!!
…and doing also
But it was clear since 2021, that Prezzie didn’t have no rose-coloured glasses on!! And came out swinging!! As luck would have it, he was scheduled to speak the day after Venezuela and boy did he get his licks in!! As we Guyanese say, “tek first lick, but not last lick!!” Referring to Venezuela’s “overt threats” over their Border Controversy, Pres Ali declared forcefully, “We have responded in clear terms. And I repeat our response now in these hallowed halls in which nations of the world meet in peace and cooperation. Guyana cannot be used as an altar of sacrifice for the settlement of Venezuela’s internal political differences.”
Since then, following Mad Maduro’s military provocations, we have begun to tighten our alliances with countries that have common interests with us to stop the madman. We don’t have to apologise for inviting the US SouthCom to hold exercises in our country; to retool our defence forces; to think of a military in the Essequibo, etc. Duce me!!
…about corruption
The sprouts of corruption have clearly germinated after four years of the PPP coming into office – following the PNC’s five-year rape of the state treasury.
No nipping in the bud now – gotta be uprooted and exterminated!
Lonzo Narine Vishall Sancharan
Keven Currica
GMC, crusher run procurement among 700 projects under audit
ecent controver-
Rsies at the new Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), as well as the procurement of crusher run for public projects and the distribution of pension books, are among a whopping 700 projects currently being looked at by the Audit Office of Guyana.
During the handover of the 2023 Auditor General report on Monday, Auditor General Deodat Sharma revealed that as much as 700 projects are currently being examined by his office. When it comes to the recent controversy at the new GMC, which involves reports of alleged smuggling of chickens and eggs, Sharma said this has been forwarded to his office and is being investigated.
“With respect to the Guyana Marketing Corporation, through the Agriculture Ministry, yes it has been forwarded to us, and we are presently investigating that matter,” Sharma informed the media.
“I’ve increased the engineering department to look at those and I did mention that instead of looking at 422 projects, we’re now looking at around 700 projects. So, we are improving in terms of looking at all those cradles to grave projects.”
It had been announced a
little over a week ago, that a special projects manager and an accountant at the GMC, were being investigated as a probe continues to clarify certain irregularities and discrepancies within the agency.
The Agriculture Ministry in a statement had said that subject Minister Zulfikar Mustapha initiated the probe, though this had been disputed by GMC head Teshawna Lall, who had said it was her who initiated the probe.
Nonetheless, the ministry had indicated that the investigation was a trans-
parent process to ensure accountability and rectify any administrative lapses. The Ministry went on to say it believes that the timing of a misleading social media post was unfortunate, as it seemed intended to distract from the ongoing investigation at the agency.
That social media post had alleged that fraud is taking place at the Agriculture Ministry with regard to the sale of “$150 million worth of chicken and eggs”, pointing fingers at senior personnel in the Ministry.
Other matters
Meanwhile, Sharma revealed that other matters involving the procurement of crusher run and pension books, are also being investigated by his office. A few days ago, it had been announced that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) would be investigating the encashment of fake pension and permanent disability books at post offices.
It had been discovered that these books lack security features and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security had urged post of-
fices and other payment venues to be on alert for persons looking to encash such books.
“Mr. Speaker, the Audit Act gives the Auditor General the mandate to carry out special audits. I am presently conducting special audits into the supply of crusher run and issuing of old age pension and public assistance booklets,” Sharma explained.
When it comes to the crusher run, the Guyana Government had disclosed earlier this year that the Audit Office is examining contracts awarded through
open tendering as well as single sourcing processes to regulate the supply of aggregates to meet growing demands.
This was revealed in a statement issued by the Public Works Ministry, which explained that the management of the aggregates was being handled by a team using peer reviewed standard operating procedures and supported by substantial laboratory testing coupled with intermittent audits, both by internal and external parties. (G3)
Guyana Marketing Corporation
Auditor General Deodat Sharma
2 women slapped with attempted murder charge
…man charged for assault
Two women, who allegedly wounded a food vendor, were on Monday slapped with an attempted murder charged.
Onecia Warrick, 24, and Maryann Allicock, 32, both residents of Lot 3421 Stevedore Housing Scheme, were arrested earlier this month and on Monday charged and appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
According to Police, the charges stem from an incident involving Randell Dowding, a 36-year-
old food vendor of Lot 3434 North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, which occurred on September 1.
Warrick, who is unemployed, and Allicock, also a food vendor, both pleaded not guilty to the charge and were each granted $150,000 bail. The case has been adjourned to October 16.
Meanwhile, Randell Dowding, who was also arrested on September 19 was charged with unlawful wounding and assault causing actual bodily harm in connection with the same incident on September 1. The charges
allege that Dowding assaulted both Allicock and Warrick.
MoneyGram operations stall globally
due to ‘cybersecurity issue’ …Guyana
among countries affected
MoneyGram International says it is working to resume normal business operations globally after identifying a cybersecurity issue affecting aspects of its systems.
In a release on social media platforms Facebook and X on Monday, the international peer-to-peer payments and money transfer company said, upon detection
of the threat, it immediately launched an investigation and took protective steps to address it, including proactively taking systems offline which impacted network connectivity.
On September 21, MoneyGram confirmed on X that it was experiencing a network outage and that it was working to better understand the nature and scope of the issue.
Over the last three days, several users in Jamaica have complained about not being able to use the system in-person and online.
The outage has also been reported in other Caribbean countries such as St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia, Barbados and Guyana as well as the United States, Netherlands, parts of Africa, Asia and Latin America.
A restoration timeline was not provided.
The global remittance company says it is working with leading external cybersecurity experts and coordinating with law enforcement on the matter. It says it recognises the importance and urgency of the matter to its customers and partners. (Radio Jamaica)
Dowding appeared in Magistrate Fabayo Azore also at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where he too pleaded not guilty. He was released on
$85,000 bail. The case will continue on October 14.
Charged: Onecia Warrick
Charged: Maryann Allicock
Charged: Randell Dowding
Chinese Medical Brigade to help improve services at regional health facilities – Anthony
In a bid to boost the capabilities of health practitioners, who will soon be providing medical services to citizens at the regional hospitals under construction, Government plans to capitalise on the work on the Chinese Medical Brigade.
Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony has indicated that the administration is strengthening its relationship with the Chinese Medical Brigade to cater for frequent medical missions in Guyana.
The current agreement between the two nations only allows one team of medical professionals from China to visit Guyana annually and engage in knowl-
edge exchange with local doctors, nurses and specialists in areas such as medical education, medicine research, public health and preventive medicine.
Anthony explained that Government is looking to ramp up the number of persons benefitting from the programme by spiking a new agreement, which will see smaller teams from the brigade visiting the country throughout the year to conduct training instead of one large team.
The minister, who was at the time bidding farewell to the 19th Medical Brigade, highlighted that the move is part of efforts to ensure that medical care accessed at regional hospitals are on par
with the level of care being offered at the Georgetown Public Hospital.
“One of the things that we look forward to, that when you're training people, and the training that you've provided, and maybe
for the next batch of doctors that are coming in, is that we will also want to pull from the regions to make sure that they're exposed to some of these training. Because very soon they'll have the environment in which to practice. So, I think this is a very good collaboration,”
“But we know you have other responsibilities. So, we wouldn't want to make sure that you spend very long time away from your families and so forth. But one of the things that we might be able to consider is to have maybe shortterm consultants coming in for shorter periods to do specific types of interventions. And maybe that might address some of the challenges that we have. I think with your collabora-
tion, the work that you have done, the quality of medicine that you practice have allowed us to really lift the bar in Guyana. And I think when I say that, I speak for all the professionals at the Georgetown Hospital,” Dr Anthony shared.
Anthony also indicated that Government plans to collaborate with the Chinese Medical Brigade in other areas of interest such as the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals.
“We've also been looking at other possibilities, because apart from the medical, like hospitals and treating patients and so forth, there are a number of other things that we can do that is related to medicine. So, one of the things that we've been looking at, can we be able to now do some form
of manufacturing? Can we be able to manufacture test kits, for example? Can we manufacture some devices? Can we manufacture pharmaceuticals? Can we manufacture vaccines? Because we saw that outside, during COVID, the challenges that we've had. And even now, with monkeypox in the DRC, and the countries surrounding that, one of their biggest challenges is access to vaccines. They don't have enough. They don't have the resources to buy, because it's quite expensive,” he added.
The first batch of Chinese medical brigade came to Guyana in 1993 according to the Protocol on Medical Cooperation, which was signed between the two countries on May 26, 1993. Through the agreement inked between the two nations, Guyana has been able to significantly improve the access to quality healthcare.
Anthony spoke highly of the important role played by the Chinese Medical Brigade, noting that the agency has always fulfilled its mission and aid in foreign aid medical work, pass on new technologies, new ideas to Guyana counterparts, and truly build a medical team that cannot be taken away. (G1)
Audit Office submits 2023 AG report 1 week before statutory deadline
…2021 & 2022 assurance reports on GYEITI
also issued
With a week to spare, the Audit Office of Guyana (AOG) on Monday handed over the Auditor General report into the 2023 fiscal year, leaving the ball in the proverbial court of the National Assembly as to when the report will be laid in the house.
The 2023 Auditor General Report, which was due by September 30, 2024, was handed over to Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir. The hand over occurred at the public buildings, marking the 20th time Auditor General Deodat Sharma has handed over of this report since he ascended to that post in 2005.
public could expect from the report, since it only becomes a public document when laid in parliament, he did share a crucial observation. For years, the Audit Office has flagged overpayments being made by Ministries and regional offices, to employees and contractors alike.
According to Sharma,
the report when it’s handed over. I don’t know how long the constitutional reform process will take,” Nadir said in his presentation.
The report was welcomed by members of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), who were present, with PAC Chairman Jermaine Figueira and Public Works
In addition to its being his 20th Auditor General report, Sharma explained that they have also issued 17 performance audit reports, including two that he also presented on Monday. According to him, the office has issued the 2021 and 2022 Assurance Reports of the Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GYEITI). The Audit Act mandates that the Auditor General carries out performance audits.
“The Audit Act gives the Auditor General the mandate to carry out performance audits. We have so far issued 17 performance audit reports, which includes the two reports that I’m presenting today. We issued the 2021 and 2022 assurance reports of the Guyana Extractive Industries and Transparency Initiative, for which we were able to complete and issue to this entity,” Sharma said.
While the Auditor General Deodat Sharma was largely mum on what the
however, the report documents improvements in this regard, with all prior year overpayments being recovered. Meanwhile, the Speaker expressed hope that constitutional amendments could be made to expedite the time it takes the Audit Report to become a public document.
“Normally I don’t intend to say much, just accept the report, smile and congratulate you. And say I will lay it at the earliest opportunity. Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee speaks of the progressive nature of people.”
“I think we may have to have a constitutional amendment for tabling or releasing
Minister Juan Edghill, commending the timely hand over of the report.
Following the consideration of the Auditor General’s report, followed by the PAC’s own report, the Government will have to submit a Treasury Memorandum. This includes a commitment, in writing, to either adopt or reject the AG’s many findings and recommendations.
Over the years, the Audit Office has been submitting its report by the statutory September 30 deadline following the close of the financial year. The last three reports for 2020, 2021 and 2022 were issued on September 19, 20 and 15, respectively.
(G3)
Members of the Audit Office and the Finance Ministry with Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir and Auditor General Deodat Sharma
The 2023 Audit Report
Corporal punishment, drug abuse, sexual violence rampant among children – ROC Chair
Several key issues such as drug abuse, corporal punishment and sexual abuse were some of the key topics examined in this year’s annual report of the Rights of the Child Commission.
On Monday afternoon several parliamentary officials and members from the Rights of the Child Commission among other stakeholders assembled in the Parliament Chamber, Public Buildings, Brickdam, Georgetown for the official handing over ceremony of the Annual Report of the Rights of the Child Commission to Speaker of the National Assembly.
Delivering remarks during the brief ceremony was Chairperson of the Rights of Child Commission, Aleema Nasir, who gave a surface level overview about several issues highlighted in the report. According to the chairperson, corporal punishment was one of the main challenges outlined in the report. She revealed that this topic has always been on the forefront of the Rights of the Child Commission, however the situation has only gotten worse over the years.
“When our report goes to Geneva, they really take us to task on our beating, our corporal punishment that's an area. And we have been dealing with that since 2009, when
we started working. And it's a challenge that is not getting any better. Because our people feel that if you don't beat the child, they wouldn't learn, things wouldn't go right. But we are trying our best we're making small steps, and I'm thankful for that” Nasir explained.
She added that drug usage among the nation’s children is also one of the prominent issues highlighted in the report. The chairperson revealed that there is at least one child in every educational intuition that uses drugs.
“Another area which we concentrated on, it's the addiction to alcohol and drugs. And this is really, really, a really terrible area. Because in all the schools of Guyana, and I say this with confidence, each school, there are children who are doing drugs and alcohol Including the religious schools. And we've been doing a lot of work within the recent times on this,” she revealed. Additionally, the chairperson highlighted several other challenges observed amongst the nation’s children, she said “We've been to all ten
regions of Guyana and it is very distressing in some areas where there's a lot of sexual abuse and incest, and all these things that are happening in some areas the children are not in school, they come in contact with the law, and things like that. It's a humongous task, and we are trying our best to see how we can, along with all the other government agencies, trying to see how best we can deal with these situations.”
Lack of effective disciplinary measures
Meanwhile chiming in on the corporal punishment debate was Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir, who opposed the elimination of this traditional disciplinary measure. The speaker explained that there is a nuance between western ideologies compared to the rest of the world.
“I heard mention of the challenges the chairman said that we have with respect to sparing the rod. And we deal with many cultures. And there is no divine handing down providence in any book that says Western ways are better than other ways, none. They just can't appreciate that, because while they are educated in their ways, they are not exposed to the cultures, the practices, and more particularly, the way the oth-
er two-thirds of the world live in harmony, in unity, and more particularly in making decisions that may not have material prosperity, but community and spiritual upliftment,” the speaker contended.
On this point the speaker took the opportunity to defended corporal punishment, he further went onto highlight some of the issues America faces due to a lack of effective disciplinary measures.
“And so today, we're told
these juveniles and also their parents. But they are lecturing us about sparing the rod. We're getting a lecture about that. Who lectures those in America about the little barbarians they're raising in their homes? Who lectures them?” He stated.
The Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) is an independent, quasi-governmental body with constitutional powers, established under Article 212G(1)(d) of the Constitution of Guyana. The Commission
about corporal punishment being so horrific. Every single day in America, there are at least ten mass shootings every day by children. I was looking at the newscast from the Florida Sheriff or one of the sheriffs in one of the counties. And he was talking about naming and shaming
was granted jurisdiction to investigate and resolve complaints that violates and omits the rights and interest of the child, ensuring that every child's voice is heard on all levels in Guyana, in accordance with, the Convention on Rights of The Child (UNCRC) Articles.
3 detectives complete degree in legal support of national security
Three detectives of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) recently completed their specialist degree in legal support of national security at the Rostov Law Institute under the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia.
The three detectives, who completed this rigorous six-year programme (for higher of education), which spanned from 2018 to 2024 and focused on Criminal Law with a minor in preliminary investigation, are Deputy Superintendent Eon Alonzo, Female Sergeant Purnima Seepaul and Sergeant Leroy Carroll.
According to a release from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the programme, designed to prepare students for the complexities of legal support in national security, emphasised both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
During the course of the programme, Alonzo, Seepaul and Carrol would have been exposed to comprehensive coursework which covered the various laws, forensic science, terrorism, national security, investigation and prevention of various crimes, administration, management, crime and criminology alongside specialised training in areas such as information securi-
ty, information technology, prevention of corruption as well as tactical and weapons training.
The statement stated that tailored for contemporary challenges in law enforcement, these robust and diverse sets of skills acquired by the three graduates now enable them to effectively navigate the legal frameworks that govern national security as well as equip them with essential skills and knowledge for their roles as law enforcement officers.
With this degree, the three detectives are now
poised to take on more significant roles within the GPF, as it has not only prepared them for immediate challenges but also positioned them as future leaders in ensuring national safety and compliance with all legal and ethical standards.
As they resume their careers, armed with advanced knowledge and practical experience, these detectives exemplify the commitment required by the GPF to enhance public safety and uphold justice in Guyana's ever-evolving and increasingly complex security landscape.
Chairperson of the Rights of the Child Commission Aleema Nasir handing over the report to Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir
This year’s report of the Rights of the Child Commission
Atotal of 346 students from the University of Guyana (UG) are now debt free as government commences phrase one of its Student Loan Write Off Programme.
According to the Finance Ministry’s 2024 mid-year report, approximately $203.7 million in student debt owed to the prestigious institution has been written off by government.
Beneficiaries of this phase were former students who were able to prove that they completed their course of study and graduated, and subsequent to graduation were employed or self-em-
ployed in Guyana for a minimum of three years, as evidenced by a minimum of 156 contributions made to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).
An additional 2,900 persons that qualify for this phase will benefit from the initiative in the second half of the year.
Overall, 13,000 Guyanese will benefit from the student debt write-off implemented by the government.
The programme which aims to make tertiary education free by 2025 is the brainchild of President Dr. Irfaan Ali and its implementation follows a promise made in
the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) 20202025 manifesto plans.
Earlier in the year, during the reading of the national budget, the Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh announced that a whopping $11 billion in loans are expected to be written off by the government in phase one.
Subsequently, Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo noted that a mechanism to assist students who would have already paid their dues to the universi-
Kwakwani woman turns 102
Mavis Bartrum, affectionately known as
“Mother B,” turned 102 on Monday.
Born on September 23, 1922, in Ida-Sabina, Upper Demerara-Berbice, Region 10, to parents Rowe Ramalho and Celestine, Bartrum has lived a remarkable life rich in experiences and achievements.
Growing up in Ida-Sabina, she received her education in the village and later became a respected member of the Kwakwani Jehovah’s Witness Church.
In her youth, she crossed paths with Alfred Bartrum, a boat captain for a bauxite company, whom she later married after relocating to Kwakwani.
Their union was blessed with 14 children, comprising seven daughters and seven sons, although seven have since passed away.
Over the years, Bartrum pursued various careers, including farming, homemaking, and tailoring. Her skillful hands created fashionable garments for her community and beyond, leaving a lasting impact through her craftsmanship. She stopped sewing
in 2021. With a life filled with love, dedication, and industriousness, Bartrum stands as a shining example of resilience and strength.
Following the passing of her husband in 2005, she continued to pour her love and creativity into her craft.
At 102 years old, Bartrum maintains in relatively good health, with only minor memory lapses.
The woman credits God for longevity.
Despite the challenges she faces in her advanced age, Bartrum is surrounded by the joy and warmth of her extensive family. She is graced with numerous grandchildren, countless great-grandchildren, and scores of great-great-grandchildren who bring light and happiness into her life.
ty but are repaying loans to commercial banks will be examined.
During one of his weekly press conferences, the Vice President had said that with provisions to waiver outstanding student loans acquired within its current term in office and give free tertiary education, this feature is technically already effective.
However, Dr. Jagdeo expressed concerns about potential cost escalation during the transition and emphasised the importance of quality education that is aligned with the country’s needs.
He suggested a strategic approach to tertiary education, including sourcing technical training programmes from other institutions instead of immediately establishing new programmes at UG.
“UG will always have a critical role to deliver tertia-
ry education, a prime role in our country. This is our university and we should keep it as such and we need to fund it well and improve it,” Jagdeo asserted, stressing the importance of providing quality education that meets the country’s needs and helps students secure valuable employment after graduation.
Ultimately, the administration is dedicated to adequately financing the university and enhancing its role in delivering quality tertiary education to all students in Guyana.
Meanwhile, opportunities are also available for locals through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship programme, which has seen the Government partnering with educational institutions around the world to offer courses that will meet the challenges and demands
of various sectors in Guyana, including the oil and gas, engineering and construction, and information security sectors.
According to the Vice President, the anticipated influx of higher qualified persons into the workforce will create conditions in the public and private sector that have to be addressed. The government has already distributed over 20,000 online scholarships through GOAL that offers 187 programmes that can be accessed from 15 reputable academic institutions across the world, including in India, Africa, the United Kingdom (UK), and Germany. According to the midyear report, in the first half of 2024, 8,023 GOAL scholarships were awarded to persons expected to commence studies in September 2024.
Mavis Bartrum
Local artistes voice urgency for stronger copyright laws
Local music artistes have amplified their voices for stronger copyright legislation to protect their work.
This renewed advocacy comes on the heels of their colleague Jackie Jaxx suing a major corporation for copyright infringement.
A few days ago, popular Guyanese singer Jackie Hanover, popularly known as Jackie Jaxx, and Ivan Harry, who performs as D'Ivan, filed a copyright infringement lawsuit in the United States (US) against One Communications (Guyana) Inc. and Tennicia De Freitas, known by her stage name NEKEITA, for the unauthorised use of their musical compositions "Guyana" and "Oh Guyana" during a rebranding event hosted by One Communications. The issue has sparked a widespread
reached out to several local recording artistes to get their views on the sit-
debate on Guyana’s outdated copyright laws.
This publication
uation. Jumo Primo, popular Guyanese Soca Monarch
singer, expounded on how modern copyright laws can help artistes like himself, stating that for far too long the law has been ignored.
“I think copyright laws are one of the things that have been overlooked, and I think that we don’t see the importance of copyright laws, especially in the arts. I believe that copyright laws can do a lot for musicians and people in the arts, but it will assist all creatives.”
Lending his perspective to other factors in which artists can be reimbursed, he highlighted that radio stations can be another pathway for reimbursement to artists once the law is acknowledged.
“So, copyright laws will help a lot of things because even the radio stations will have to pay their dues to other enforcements for playing music that doesn’t
belong to them. It’s a very touchy subject, but it is one of those conversations that we need to have. It is needed, and needed urgently.”
Chiming in on the discussion was multi-genre musical, artiste Akeem Alexander.
“Artistes would be able to make way more with copyright law in place. I definitely think that Guyana, on a whole, needs to implement the legislation so that Guyanese are able to be treated fairly and be reimbursed. If there is any music
their music is being used, it is right and I support it. that’s my opinion.”
Meanwhile, on social media sites, scores of artistes have reposted Jaxx’s call for action and supported her stance against One Communications.
This publication also spoke with Attorney-atLaw Janel Lindie-Daly, who delved into what Guyana’s current copyright law entails.
“The Copyright Act 1966 Chapter 74, which is a very old act, was inherited from
being played, they get com
pensation for it. Anything that has been happening, they are being compensated for their work.”
Sharing the same perspective was Vinel Hinds who relayed that the Strick implementation of Copyright within Guyana will always foster a greater sense of respect for musical artiste.
“Well firstly our music will be respected especially being played or performed by other artiste…in regard to payments, I think that compensation must be given for musical artiste once
the UK at the time of independence, so there are a lot of deficiencies with the act in terms of how old and outdated it is. Additionally, it doesn’t capture the essence of intellectual property today and it doesn’t provide a wide range of protection in terms of the copyright laws.
The fines enforced are quite outdated, so even if you make a claim under the act, you won’t really be compensated properly.”
The lawsuit was filed after efforts to resolve the dispute with One Communications failed. Hanover and Harry allege,
upon information and belief in their lawsuit, that One Communications, formerly GTT, habitually infringes, conspires with others to infringe, or facilitates the infringement of copyright-protected works. They contend that the complaint of conduct is intentionally malicious, fraudulent, oppressive, or committed recklessly, or with a wanton disregard for their rights, and stifles the music industry. Hanover is also contending that One Communications interfered with business relations and opportunities she has with one of its rivals.
In pre-action letters sent to One Communications, Hanover and Harry warned that the unauthorised use of their copyright-protected works gives rise to claims in Guyana and the US, and they intend to seek relief in both jurisdictions. Hanover is a citizen of Guyana, while D’Ivan is a dual citizen of the US and Guyana. Defendant One Communications (Guyana) Inc. is a leading telecommunications company in Guyana, and Tennicia De Freitas (NEKEITA) is a singer who performed at the rebranding event. Hanover and Harry are requesting actual damages to be determined at trial but no less than US$300,000 for the unauthorised use of the musical compositions; to prevent further unauthorised use of the plaintiffs’ works; recovery of profits earned; and the value of the economic advantage gained by One Communications’ unauthorised use of the works in its rebranding campaign. In addition, the duo is requesting at least US$1 million to penalise the defendants for their willful and malicious conduct and compensation for legal expenses incurred. (G2)
Guyana explores partnership with Sesame Street to produce educational content for kids
Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, and the Director of the Guyana Learning Channel, Anieshaw Mohammed, on Monday morning held an exciting meeting with a team from the world-renowned Sesame Street to explore a new collaboration. The focus is on creating engaging and educational content for children aged 3 to 8.
Minister Manickchand, who previously secured a partnership with Sesame Street during her last tenure, expressed her excitement about rekindling this relationship. Although the previous engagement did not materialise, she is thrilled to once
again explore the incredible opportunities this partnership can offer for Guyana’s young learners.
Jackie Jaxx Hanover
Famous Guyanese singer Jumo Primo
Guyanese singer, Akeem Alexander
Guyana, US strengthen partnership on regional security, territorial integrity
President of Guyana, Dr Irfaan Ali and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, reaffirmed their countries' strong partnership and commitment to regional security, democracy, and territorial integrity in a meeting held on Monday in New York.
Secretary Blinken expressed gratitude for the growing cooperation between the two nations. Recalling his visit to Guyana, Blinken lauded the country’s leadership within the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and its critical role in addressing challenges in the region, particularly in Haiti.
“We see this partnership in what we’re doing together, not only between us
SBB
but also in Haiti. Guyana’s leadership in Caricom has been critical. Together, I hope we’ll continue to support the Multinational Security Support mission for Haiti, to help our friends their deal with gangs, violence, and support a democratic transition,” Blinken said in a transcript of the meeting released by the US Department of State.
He also emphasised the United States' unwavering support for Guyana’s territorial integrity, signaling continued collaboration on a broad range of regional issues.
Ali echoed these sentiments, highlighting the shared values and commitment both countries have to democracy and the rule of law.
"It's an honor to celebrate our strong partnership and reiterate our shared values in the region. We are committed to ensuring the people of Haiti can return to normalcy, and the humanitarian effort there is of utmost importance to us," Ali said.
The leaders discussed ongoing bilateral efforts, including expanded trade, security cooperation, and the need to foster stability in the region. President Ali expressed gratitude for the United States' firm support of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, pledging to continue strengthening the partnership.
mulls increasing Green Tech Fund business grant – CEO …says over 35 businesses benefitted since 2019
The Small Business Bureau (SBB) in an effort to promote innovation among the country’s small businesses, has revealed plans to increase the amount of financing businesses can access through the Green Technology Fund initiative.
This was revealed by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at SBB, Mohamed Shazim Ibrahim on Monday during an exclusive interview with Guyana Times. During the interview the CEO highlighted the importance of developing and supporting initiatives like the Green Technology Fund amid the country’s economic development.
“This is a fund where we're looking for people to come up with groundbreaking solutions and new ideas that will help with the challenges that we are having with the environment. The president, His Excellency Mohamed Irfaan Ali, has
mentioned over and over how important it is that we should get into better environmental practices,” the CEO explained.
He added that recognising the importance of better environmental practices the Bureau took it upon themselves to develop an initiative that not only promotes business growth, but to also encourages business owners to draft ideas that will help the environment, essentially killing two birds with one stone.
Moreover, the well-seasoned business official revealed that the bureau will be continuing the project next year. However, he noted that the bureau plans on increasing the total amount of financing small business owners can access through the Green Technology Fund initiative.
“We plan to, well, it's in the plan when the budget is approved to have this fund again next year with
the same amount of winners but we are hoping to increase the value of the grant,” Ibrahim stated.
Additionally, the CEO revealed that since its inception in 2019 the Green Technology Fund initiative has supported over 35 Guyanese small business to date.
“I can tell you that to date about 40 businesses would have benefitted from the green-tech fund,” the CEO said.
Meanwhile, this year some 12 small business will be receiving a total of $1 million through the Green Technology Fund initiative. Small business owners interested in accessing financing through the fund are required to be registered under the Small Business Bureau (SBB), also businesses must have less than $60 million in annual turnover, less than $20 million in business assets, and less than 25 em-
ployees.
The bureau’s push to fund green technology projects comes even as Guyana is making strides in diversifying away from the use of fossil fuels and gravitating towards the use of more green technology. Plans to achieve this are laid out in the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), the brainchild of former President Bharrat Jagdeo.
Under President Dr. Irfaan Ali, an updated LCDS has been launched. The government has announced plans to resus-
citate the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project. Smaller hydroelectric plants have been added to hinterland regions, and solar distribution panel programmes have been reintroduced. Solar farm projects will be created around larger communities to support economic projects.
The new gas-to-shore project will also kick in by 2025, enabling a significant reduction in Guyana’s dependency on fossil fuels. Guyana’s goal is to reduce fossil fuel use by 50 per cent by 2025, and by 70 per cent by 2030.
One of the 2021 Green Tech Fund beneficiaries
Small Business Bureau CEO Mohamed Shazim Ibrahim
President of Guyana, Dr Irfaan Ali and US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken during the meeting on Monday (Office of the President photo)
Regional
Prime Minister Mottley named on the Independent Climate 100 List 2024
Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley has been named among the world’s leading environmentalists on The Independent Climate 100 List 2024.
This inaugural list, which highlights key global figures working to combat the Climate Crisis, was released Monday to coincide with Climate Week NYC 2024, which runs from September 22-29.
The Independent Climate 100 List 2024 recognises 100 of the world’s foremost environmental changemakers.
Prime Minister Mottley’s inclusion celebrates her innovative and courageous leadership in
advocating for global financial reforms through her Bridgetown Initiative, which calls for a more just and equitable global financial system to support vulnerable nations battling the Climate Crisis.
“The Climate 100 List isn’t in order of importance, nor does it compare or rank one changemaker against another. Instead, it’s a celebration of the people and companies dedicated to finding positive climate solutions,” The Independent said as it released the list.
Also mentioned is the Bridgetown Initiative, first introduced in 2022, which has sparked international interest as it outlines a
plan to overhaul the global financial architecture and calls on wealthier nations and international financial institutions to significantly increase their financial support for climate action.
Prime Minister Mottley most recently launched the Bridgetown Initiative 3.0 at the 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States in Antigua and Barbuda.
This recognition by The Independent Climate 100 List 2024 follows her inclusion on TIME’s Climate List of the 100 Most Influential Leaders Driving Climate Action in 2023, reaffirming her continued impact on international climate advocacy. (Nation News)
UWI St Augustine welcomes over 3000 new students
Over 3000 students from more than 30 countries were welcomed into the University of West Indies (UWI) St Augustine campus at its annual matriculation and welcome ceremony on September 19.
A media release from the university dated September 23, said the ceremony was held at its Sport and Physical Education Centre (UWI SPEC).
The release said this year's theme, Pelicans: Get
Ready to Soar, marked the beginning of the academic year for the 3000-plus students.
Pro Vice-Chancellor and campus principal Professor Rose-Marie Antoine told the students, “Your choice to pursue tertiary education despite the worrying trend of decreasing enrolment worldwide, means you have taken a significant step towards achieving your full potential...a UWI degree will be one of your most valuable assets.”
The ceremony included the symbolic signing of the academic register by top matriculant Keshma Rampersad, who is pursuing a degree in computer sciences. The release said Rampersad was chosen for her academic excellence for technology.
Rampersad said, "I look forward to embracing challenges and seizing opportunities that will contribute to my personal and academic development.” (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)
Argentina dollar deposits spike by US$8B under Milei
Argentina's foreign currency deposits have jumped by around US$8 billion since libertarian President Javier Milei took office in December, driven by a series of pro-market austerity measures and incentives to lure dollars back into the financial system.
The latest central bank data available on Monday show that total foreign
currency deposits now exceed US$24 billion, up from around US$16.5 billion when Milei, an economist and former TV pundit, took power amid a major economic crisis.
The Government needs an injection of funds into Argentina's economy and financial system to help drag the country out of recession, as well as to shore up creaking State financ -
es after years of fiscal deficits, draining reserves and high inflation.
Milei has offered an amnesty until September 30 for people to bring funds back into the formal system without penalty after years of savers looking to hoard dollars outside the formal banking system, offshore, or even stuffed under mattresses. (Reuters)
Southern Mexico braces as Hurricane John, now category 2, nears Pacific beach towns
Hurricane John rapidly strengthened to a Category 2 storm on Monday and was expected to intensify further before hitting Mexico's southern Pacific coast in the coming hours, the US National Hurricane Center said.
Hurricane John was located 89 kilometres (55 miles) south of Punta Maldonado, in Mexico's Guerrero state, and blowing winds near 160.9 km per hour (100 mph) with higher gusts, the NHC said.
"John is expected to become a major hurricane as it approaches the coast of southern Mexico," NHC said in a statement.
The hurricane is set to make landfall late on Monday or early Tuesday on the southern Mexican Pacific coast, near the surfer getaway of Puerto Escondido in the state of Oaxaca, the NHC forecast showed.
Authorities announced school closures in parts of Oaxaca and neighbouring Guerrero as the storm approached.
The NHC urged residents to prepare for potentially deadly storm surges and flooding, while Oaxaca's governor said he had instructed authorities to coordinate with at-risk communities.
In Puerto Escondido, under a cloudy sky, people hurried to tow in boats and put away beach chairs on Monday.
Mexico's Government has issued a hurricane warning for communities between
Punta Maldonado and tourist hub Huatulco, including the famous beach resort of Acapulco, while a tropical storm warning stretches east of Huatulco to the major port of Salina Cruz.
Mexican State-run oil company Pemex's largest domestic refinery is in Salina Cruz, while Acapulco was battered by Hurricane Otis, last year and recovery efforts are still ongoing. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Venezuelan mother begs for safe return of son caught in post-election crackdown
Bleider Leves, a 17-year-old mechanic, was heading to his Caracas home one day in late July after Venezuela's contested election when Police grabbed him on the street. Officers beat, tortured and jailed him without cause, his mother said.
Nearly two months later, the teenager remains imprisoned, but there have been no charges nor any sign he will be released, his mother, Adelaida Herrera, said in an interview. Rights groups alleged there have been 25 deaths and 2400 arrests in the Government's crackdown after the disputed election.
"I've asked the authorities to please give him back to me," said Herrera, wiping away tears.
The communications
ministry and Attorney General's office did not respond to requests for comment on Bleider's case and the number of those detained following the election.
Electoral officials and the top court declared President Nicolás Maduro the winner of the July 28 election with 52 per cent of the vote. But the Opposition says voting machine receipts show a landslide victory for their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez. Some Western Governments, including the United States, have alleged electoral fraud.
Two days after the election, Bleider was returning home after spending time with his girlfriend when Police seized him, even though he did not join any
anti-government protests, Herrera said.
Police beat him, kicked him in the chest and took him to a police station, the mother said, relaying the account Bleider gave her when she has visited him on several occasions.
Hours later, agents pressured him to confess falsely that the country's Opposition Leader paid him to protest, Herrera said Bleider told her. They put a plastic bag over his head in a tactic locally known as "the little onion," she said.
"They tortured him... to tell them Maria Corina was paying him $50 to protest," said Herrera, referring to Opposition Leader and former lawmaker Maria Corina Machado. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Street battles in Bolivia as Evo Morales leads march to capital
Pro-Government supporters and security forces in Bolivia have clashed with protesters loyal to the former President Evo Morales on Sunday.
Rival groups hurled firecrackers, homemade explosives, and stones at each other while Police fired tear gas in the city of El Alto.
Morales – who was president from 2006 to 2019 –has been leading thousands of supporters in a week-long march to the capital La Paz.
He wants to run as the candidate for the ruling Mas party in the country's 2025 presidential elections.
But the current President, Luis Arce, also intends to run. Arce's supporters took to the streets to protest against Morales and his followers.
Morales was declared the winner of the 2019 election, but resigned weeks later after protests triggered by reports of irregularities in the vote count, and went into exile. (BBC News)
Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley
A lifeguard walks along a beach ahead of the arrival of Storm John, in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca state, Mexico, September 23, 2024 (Reuters/Fredy Garcia photo)
Around the World OIL NEWS
Oil firms evacuating US Gulf of Mexico staff as hurricane threat rises
US oil producers on Monday were scrambling to evacuate staff from Gulf of Mexico oil production platforms as forecasters predicted the second major hurricane in two weeks could tear through offshore oil producing fields.
The US National Hurricane Center said a potential Tropical Cyclone System Nine near the western tip of Cuba was expected to develop into a hurricane on Wednesday and intensify in the next 72 hours as it moves across the eastern Gulf of Mexico.
It could become a major hurricane when it reaches the northeastern Gulf Coast on Thursday, bringing the "risk of lifethreatening storm surge and damaging hurricane-force winds" to the northern and northeast Gulf Coast, according to the NHC.
Some major oil companies operating in the region said they have begun evacuating staff from offshore facilities.
Chevron said it began evacuating all personnel and shutting down facilities, including the Blind Faith and Petronius platforms, due to the forecast of potential Tropical Cyclone Nine.
Chevron has also evacuated non-essential workers from four of its other Gulf of Mexico oil platforms, including Anchor, Big Foot, Jack/St Malo, and Tahiti, but said production remains at normal levels.
Equinor said it was evacuating non-essential staff from its Titan platform.
Shell (said it had shut in production at its Stones platform and curtailed production at its Appomattox facilities as a precautionary measure, along with evacuating non-essential staff from its assets in the Mars Corridor.
Equinor and Shell said that these decisions had not yet impacted their production.
The next name on the list of named storms is Helene, and according to private weather forecaster AccuWeather, it could make landfall later this week as a Category Three hurricane and potentially strengthen into a Category Four. (Reuters)
US sends additional forces to Middle East as tensions soar, Pentagon says
The United States is sending a small number of additional troops to the Middle East given escalating tensions between Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah, the Pentagon said on Monday, declining to specify the precise number or mission of the deployed forces.
"Out of an abundance of caution, we are sending a small number of additional US military personnel forward to augment our forces that are already in the region," Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder, a Pentagon spokesperson, told reporters.
After almost a year of war against Hamas in Gaza, Israel is shifting its focus to its northern frontier, where Hezbollah has been firing rockets into Israel in sup-
Lebanon says Israeli airstrikes kill at least 492, residents flee from south
Israel's military said it launched airstrikes against Hezbollah sites in Lebanon on Monday, which Lebanese authorities said had killed 492 persons and sent tens of thousands fleeing for safety in the country's deadliest day in decades.
After some of the heaviest cross-border exchanges of fire since hostilities flared in October, Israel warned people in Lebanon to evacuate areas where it said the armed movement was storing weapons.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent a short video statement addressed to the Lebanese people.
"Israel's war is not with you, it's with Hezbollah. For too long Hezbollah has been using you as human shields," he said.
Families from south Lebanon loaded cars, vans
Zelenskiy
USome people escaped on foot. People carrying small bundles of belongings trekked northward on the beach near the Lebanese town of Tyre.
Nasser Yassin, the Lebanese Minister coordinating the crisis response, told Reuters 89 temporary shelters in schools and other facilities had been activated, with capacity for more than 26,000 persons as civilians fled "Israeli atrocities".
and trucks with belongings and people, sometimes multiple generations in one vehicle. As bombs rained down, children crammed onto parents' laps and suitcases were tied to car roofs.
Highways north were gridlocked. "I grabbed all the important papers and we got out. Strikes all
around us. It was terrifying," said Abed Afou, who was with his family, including three sons aged 6 to 13 and several other relatives. They sat in traffic as it crawled north. They did not know where they would stay, he said, but just wanted to reach Beirut.
After almost a year of war against Hamas in Gaza on its southern border, Israel is shifting its focus to the northern frontier, where Iran-backed Hezbollah has been firing rockets into Israel in support of Hamas, also backed by Iran.
The fighting has raised fears that the US, Israel's close ally, and Iran will be sucked into a wider war.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
says Ukraine closer to end of war with Russia
krainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said his country is "closer to the end of the war" with Russia, according to excerpts of an interview with ABC News released on Monday.
"I think that we are closer to the peace than we think," he was quoted as saying. "We are closer to the end of the war."
In the interview, he urged Washington and other partners to continue supporting Ukraine. The full-scale
Russia invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022 as what Moscow called a "special operation", has caused the deaths of tens of thousands of people, uprooted millions more, and devastated Ukrainian towns and cities.
The Ukrainian leader said that only from a "strong position" can Ukraine push Russian President Vladimir Putin "to stop the war".
Zelenskiy arrived in the United States on Sunday to attend sessions at the
United Nations General Assembly and urged his partners to help achieve "a shared victory for a truly just peace".
Washington and its allies have provided a multibillion-dollar assistance programme to Ukraine since the Russian invasion began while also imposing several rounds of sanctions against Moscow.
Putin says peace talks can begin only if Kyiv abandons swathes of eastern and southern Ukraine to
Russia and drops its NATO membership ambitions. Zelenskiy has called repeatedly for a withdrawal of all Russian troops, and the restoration of Ukraine's post-Soviet borders.
Kyiv began a cross-border attack on August 6 into Russia's western Kursk region. Ukraine says the action intended partly to prevent Russian forces in the area from launching their own incursion across the border into Ukraine.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
California sues Exxon over plastics recycling 'deception'
California's Attorney General is suing ExxonMobil, alleging the oil giant engaged in a “decades-long campaign of deception” about the effectiveness of plastics recycling.
port of its ally Hamas. Israel's military on Monday struck Hezbollah in Lebanon's south, eastern Bekaa valley and northern region near Syria in its most widespread strikes. An Israeli strike on Monday evening on the southern suburbs of Lebanon's capital targeted senior Hezbollah leader Ali Karaki, the head of the southern front, US President Joe Biden's administration has been seeking to contain the conflict to Gaza and has repeatedly called for the IsraelLebanon border crisis to be resolved through diplomacy. That call for diplomacy has been underscored by US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, in daily calls with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. (Excerpt from Reuters)
In the civil lawsuit filed on Monday, Attorney General Rob Bonta accused Exxon of contributing to a "deluge" of plastic pollution, while telling Californians that recycling was a fix.
"For decades, ExxonMobil has been deceiving the public to convince us that plastic recycling could solve the plastic waste and pollution crisis when they clearly knew this wasn’t possible,” Bonta said.
In a statement, Exxon blamed California for an inefficient recycling programme.
"For decades, California officials have known their recycling system isn't ef -
fective. They failed to act, and now they seek to blame others. Instead of suing us, they could have worked with us to fix the problem and keep plastic out of landfills," the company said in a statement.
An Exxon spokesperson added that the company had processed more than 60 million pounds (27 million kilograms) of plastic waste into usable raw materials, "keeping it out of landfills".
Bonta's office said the case marks the first
time US officials have attempted to hold a gas or oil company accountable for deceptive claims about plastics recycling.
California is seeking an unspecified amount of money that Bonta said could come to as much as “multiple billions of dollars".
“ExxonMobil lied to further its [record]-breaking profits at the expense of our planet and possibly jeopardising our health," he said.
Last year, Bonta sued
ExxonMobil as well as four other oil giants for compensation over climate change damages.
The most recent lawsuit, filed in San Francisco County Superior Court, comes after a nearly twoyear investigation by Bonta's office into the fossil fuel and petrochemical industries and global plastics pollution.
ExxonMobil is the world's largest producer of resins used for single-use plastics, according a report by Australia's Minderoo Foundation.
The 147-page suit alleges that nearly all of plastic waste processed by the company has been turned into fuel instead of recycled plastic.
The deception violated state nuisance, natural resources, water pollution, false advertisement and unfair competition laws, Bonta said. (Excerpt from BBC News)
A mourner carries into a vehicle the body of a Palestinian killed in an Israeli strike, amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip, September 23, 2024 (Reuters/Ramadan Abed photo)
California Attorney General Rob Bonta [Getty Images]
Think before you act. Emotional situations will escalate quickly, turning a molehill into a mountain before you can change your tune. Broaden your awareness, question information and verify facts.
Do what you can to bring about positive change. Embrace what makes you feel good about yourself and what you can do to help others. Let empathy and compassion lead the way.
Optimism is a beautiful characteristic to bolster. However, it requires patience, facts and the ability to initiate what you want to pursue. It’s up to you to open the door to the possibilities.
How you approach your objective will significantly affect the outcome and your reputation. Trust your instincts and follow through with your plans, regardless of who decides to help and who doesn’t.
Size up situations and make decisions. Taking too long to ponder things you cannot change or don’t want to be a part of will waste valuable time that you should spend pursuing positive ventures.
Be open, learn all you can and make choices conducive to lifestyle improvements. Use your imagination, compromise and avoid excess. Participate in debates that encourage truth and connections.
It’s time to do what’s best for you and to let go of what’s dragging you down. An aggressive move or lifestyle change may daunt you, but it will inevitably kickstart your efforts to forge ahead.
Pamper yourself, rejuvenate and participate in something that sparks your imagination and offers a unique perspective. Evaluate prospects, and you’ll make better choices. Networking and social events will offer insight.
Stay focused on what’s at stake and how to get things done on time and to your satisfaction. A deal someone hypes will fall short of your expectations. Fend for yourself and pat yourself on the back.
Dream on and turn your hopes and wishes into a reality. Please don’t settle for less than what you want or give in to someone only looking out for themselves.
Participation is necessary if you want to reach your destination. Take the initiative to listen, assess what you hear and use suggestions and information that make you comfortable and capable of achieving your goal.
Let your feelings lead the way, and your actions speak for you. Don’t be shy. Put your best foot forward, and you’ll attract those who share your beliefs and can contribute to your success.
Guyanese archers competing in CDC tournament in Jamaica
Archery Guyana has disclosed that Team Guyana safely arrived to participate in the sixth Caribbean Development Championships (CDC), which will be held in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. The prestigious event, while focusing on development in the Caribbean, will also see participation from national federations across the Americas, under the auspices of World Archery Americas.
Representing Guyana at this international event are archers from various affiliate members of the
National Federation in Guyana, showcasing their skills in both the recurve (R) and barebow (BB) categories across different age groups and experience levels.
The athletes representing Guyana include:
Senior Women (Barebow – Beginner)
Juanita Persaud
Melesa Ramnaraine
Naudia Maraj
Senior Men (Barebow – Beginner)
Mehandra Chatargum
Gregory McKoy
Senior Men (Recurve
– Beginner)
Faraad Gani
Afzal Karim
Under-15 Women (Barebow – Development)
Fatima Gani
Under-18 Women (Barebow – Development)
Nataliya Pollard
Under-15 Men (Barebow – Development)
Alec Simmons
Saifullah Gani
Senior Men (Barebow – Development)
Teemahall Lall
Richard Dookie
Senior Women (Recurve – Development)
Roshini Boodhoo
Theresa Jaikishun
Julie-Ann Williams
Karin Toppin
Senior Men (Recurve – Development)
Jeewanram Persaud
Saeed Karim
These archers, representing a blend of experienced and up-and-coming talent, have demonstrated their dedication and commitment through rig-
orous training in preparation for this competition.
Their participation signifies Guyana’s continued growth in the sport of archery, and the federation is confident that they will perform admirably on the international stage.
Accompanying the team are the following officials:
Nicholas Hing – Chefde-Mission & Coach
Saeed Karim – Team Logistics Coordinator & Athlete
Roshini Boodhoo – Team Manager & Athlete
Jeewanram Persaud –Coach & Athlete
Juliana Rickhee – Team Support Coordinator
Shrikanta Deoroop –Team Photographer
According to the association, Archery Guyana remains committed to fostering the development of its athletes and raising the profile of the sport both locally and internationally. The federation is grateful for the support of its affiliates; the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; the National Sports Commission, the Guyana Olympic Association; Guyana Beverages Inc; World of Flowers and the Guyanese public.
Kendall’s Union Cricket Club benefit from cricket gear initiative
Kendall’s Union Cricket Club of Number 19 Village, Corentyne, Berbice are the latest to benefit from the joint Cricket Gears initiative. hey were the recipients of two boxes of red cricket balls, one of which was handed over recently and the other will follow.
At a simple-ceremony held recently, Galina Hitnarine, club representative, was thankful for the support. The project is also pleased to be part of Kendall’s Union Cricket Club’s development and the balls are to be used for the junior cricket programme only.
The total cricket-related items received/purchased so far amounts to $460,000 in cash: thirteen coloured cricket uniforms, one set of stumps, two trophies, twenty-seven pairs of cricket shoes, thirty-three pairs of batting pads, thirty-five cricket bats, thirty-two pairs of batting gloves, twenty-five thigh pads, three pairs of wicketkeeping pads, six arm
guards, two chest pads, two boxes, twelve cricket bags, six bat rubbers, six helmets, one fibreglass bat, one pair of floppy hat, thirteen boxes of white cricket balls, three boxes of red cricket balls and twenty-eight footballs. In addition to the above, gear valued over $600,000 was donated by Sheik Mohamed, a former national wicketkeeper/batsman. All cash collected is used to purchase cricket gear requested and not available at the time.
To date, eighty-six players, male and female, from all three counties of Guyana have benefited directly from cash, seven gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, thirty-three bats, three boxes, six helmets, thirty-one pairs of cricket shoes, twenty pairs of batting pads, twenty-four thigh pads, one bat grip, thirty-four pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicketkeeping pads and three pairs of wicketkeeping gloves. Many others benefited indirectly. In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon
eficiaries are the
and
Cricket-related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline, and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the country and club leaders also assist to identify same. Progressive and well-managed cricket clubs with a youth programme will also benefit.
The success of this initiative would have never been possible without the support of numerous individuals and businesses in Guyana and abroad.
area benefited from two used bats. Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenaam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree
Die Hard also received one box of red cricket balls each, Cold Fusion Cricket Club thir-
teen coloured uniforms while RHCCCC received six boxes of balls, fifteen white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicketkeeping gloves, two sets of stumps and bails. Other ben-
Essequibo Cricket Board; the town of Lethem; Youth Coach Travis Persaud (one box of red cricket balls); male and female teams playing the traditional hardball and softball in the Upper
Corentyne area; No 65 Young Titans (30 T-Shirts); youths of Just Try Cricket Club; Wakenaam Cricket Academy (one box of white balls); Shamar Joseph; Nehemiah Hohenkirk; Shamar Apple; Leguan Cricket Committee; Tucber Park Cricket Club; Malteenoes Sports Club (nine cricket balls each)
Kendall’s Union Cricket Club (twelve red balls).
The Guyanese archery team in Jamaica
From left to right: Anil Beharry, Galina Hitnarine and Surindradat Beharry.
The Guyanese archers readying for action
Republic Bank CPL...
takes Knight Riders home
Ahigh-scoring affair in the second match of the day in the 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) saw Trinbago Knight Riders end the season for the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots with a seven-wicket defeat.
After winning their first match of the competition, the Patriots have lost every game since, but this defeat in Tarouba seemed particu
his own velcro hands by pulling off an impressive diving catch off his own bowling when Kyle Mayers mis-timed a short ball and offered up a sharp return chance.
The Knight Riders were clinical in their chase, Jason Roy blitzing 64 runs from 34 deliveries at the top of the order before Nicholas Pooran finished the job in some style, striking a flat six down the ground – his seventh of the evening – to finish the match. Pooran was Player of the Match, hitting 13 boundaries to finish undefeated on 93* off just 43 deliveries, al-
posted a sizeable 193-4 with the bat after being inserted at the toss.
Captain Andre Fletcher led from the front with a brilliant innings of 93 from 61 balls that included shots all around the ground and six sixes struck into the crowd. Fletcher was denied a deserved century, falling short by seven runs when Chris Jordan had him caught by the bucket hands of Kieron Pollard on the long off boundary.
Jordan was the pick of the Knight Riders bowlers and also gave a glimpse of
The Friedkin Group has reached an agreement to buy Farhad Moshiri's majority 94 per cent stake in Everton.
The deal is subject to regulatory approval from the Premier League, the Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.
The US-based group is led by Chairman Dan Friedkin, who also owns Roma. He has a net worth of £5.7 billion according to Forbes. Everton would become the 10th club in the Premier League under majority American ownership.
The deal would bring to a conclusion the turbulent Moshiri reign. The BritishIranian businessman has invested more than £750 million in the club since 2016, but many supporters have been deeply unhappy about his ownership.
Everton, who have not played outside the top flight during the Premier League era, have been in the bottom half for the last three seasons, finishing 16th, 17th and 15th.
Last season, they were
deducted points twice –amounting to a total of eight after an appeals process – for breaching Premier League financial rules on the level of losses clubs are allowed to make.
A spokesperson for the Friedkin Group said in a statement on Monday: "We are pleased to have reached an agreement to become custodians of this iconic football club. We are focused on securing the necessary approvals to complete the transaction.
"We look forward to providing stability to the club
and sharing our vision for its future, including the completion of the new Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock."
The Friedkin Group had agreed a deal in principle to purchase current owner Moshiri's 94 per cent stake in June.
But talks were called off a month later after the two parties failed to finalise an agreement. That followed Miami-based 777 Partners being unable to complete a deal earlier this year.
In a complex saga surrounding the takeover,
SCOREBOARD
b Mayers 13
Nicholas Pooran † not out 93
Tim David c & b Nortje 9
beit he was aided by some sloppy catching that saw him put down on a handful of occasions in the field. The Patriots will rue the dropped catches and the missed opportunity to finish a tough campaign with a victory over one of the favourite sides. The Knight Riders will benefit from a Net Run Rate boost having hauled down the sizeable target with nine balls remaining, they now sit on 10 points alongside Barbados Royals and Guyana Amazon Warriors.
Kieron Pollard (c) not out 10
Extras (lb 2, nb 1, w 5) 8
TOTAL 18.3 Ov (RR: 10.64) 197/3
Did not bat:
Friedkin Group agrees deal to buy Everton
American businessman and Crystal Palace owner John Textor then jumped in for talks but could not complete a deal, because Premier League rules prohibit individuals from owning more than one team.
The Friedkin Group is already a lender to the club after injecting £200 million, though this could be converted to equity as part of the deal.
The agreement between the group and Moshiri's Blue Heaven Holdings has been signed and finances are in place for completion.
The group's due diligence on the club was done when they were given exclusivity in June, and concerns around a separate £200 million loan provided by 777 Partners have been resolved.
Roma and Everton united by ownership
In June, it was said that Friedkin wanted Roma and Everton to sit at the top of "a multi-club model".
Everton's appeal to the Friedkin Group was said to be based on the club's histo-
ry, fanbase and the new stadium being built on BramleyMoore Dock.
The group remains fully committed to Roma and has no concerns regarding the two clubs co-existing under UEFA rules.
The Friedkin Group assumed control of Italian side Roma in 2020 and guided the club to Europa Conference League success under Jose Mourinho in 2022.
Last week, the club sacked boss Daniele de Rossi just four games into the new season and on Sunday supporters displayed their anger at the decision to dismiss the club legend, while chief executive Lina Souloukou stepped down from her role.
In a statement to Roma fans on Monday, Friedkin said: "The potential addition of Everton to our portfolio does not alter our focus on AS Roma. If anything, the multiclub symbiosis will only help Roma.
"Each club in our portfolio operates independently and AS Roma remains at the heart of our football ambitions." (BBC Sport)
Everton lie joint bottom of the Premier League after five games
Andre Fletcher fell seven short of a century
Kyle Mayers hit a quickfire 60
Chris Jordan claimed two crucial wickets for TKR
President’s Cup: Olympic Kremlin does it again
It was simply déjà vu at the Rising Sun Turf Club as Olympic Kremlin completed the double with a sensational win at the President’s Cup.
The Slingerz Racing Stables horse, who won the Guyana Cup last month in similar fashion, was piloted again by Jockey Acedenir Gulart. He ran another sensible race making the jump at the right time, to stop the clock at one minute, 47 seconds in the one-mile event.
Nova Sol came second again while Easy Time finished third. Mapa Do Brasil settled for third in a high-octane feature event, which was sponsored by Banks DIH. The feature race began with the Master Z Racing Stables duo Easy Time and Stat setting the early tone, but Olympic Kremlin took the outside and sealed the deal yet again.
The President’s Cup started in good heat with the Kris Jagdeo Construction L Class Non-Earners. Lion Heart took the top spot while Dr Switch finished second. Danstar and Legacy were the other finishers in that order.
in third and Irish Eyes was fourth.
The excitement was intense in race five, which was the Peter Lewis Sprint Classic for horses three years old and over. The newly-imported Brazilian horse, Companheiro Leal out of J’s Racing Stables impressed on its Guyana debut. It was a gate-to-pole victory for Jockey Dylan Machado as Companheiro Leal reigned supreme.
Ritorna Vincetori, another Brazilian import from Slingerz Racing Stables, was good competition, but had to settle for second while Creemore finished third. Stormy Entry ran in fourth. The familiar horses in Bossalina and Spankhurst were among the top five finishers.
Ramcharitar Construction Firm K Non Earners 2024/L Class Open and J3 first-time starters.
It was a packed field and Money Time prevailed. Jockey Quinton Kellman, who started the day with a win, came up trumps again as he piloted Money Time to a scintillating win. He finished ahead of Princess Samiyah, Kiss, and Swinging Jet in that order.
The President’s Cup was presented by Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee; it was another well-organised and exciting race day at Rising Sun Turf Club.
Race two was the D Sawh Mechanical Workshop J Class and Lower/H3 Non Earners last start. Rachel dominated the race from the get-go to claim victory while Hayley fought well to finish second. Amazing Grace had to settle for third while Top Gun came in fourth. The third race of the day was the Kabisa H Class Classic. Theory of Colors from the Jagdeo Racing Stables emerged as the winner while American Traveller finished second. Emotional Damage ran in third and Stroke of Luck finished fourth.
of
The penultimate race of the day was Anirud
Organizers have informed that races will return to the Bush Lot United Turf Club in West Coast Berbice. J’s Racing Stables will host the Kabisa Stakes horse race meet on Sunday, October 20.
Race four was the J’s Supermarket two-year-old maidens. Storm Bird stormed
GCC U17 hockey boys victorious in Trinidad
The Georgetown Cricket Club’s Under-17 boys’ hockey team, the GCC Outlaws, visited Trinidad over the last weekend to participate in the Paragon Indoor Hockey Tournament, which was scheduled for September 12-15, at the Woodbrook Youth Facility in Port-of-Spain.
This was the debut trip for the entire team which comprises players who have been playing the game for a few years. It coincided with a time when training facilities were difficult to access. Going into the tournament, the team, therefore, needed to learn quickly, having never competed on a floor and in a space quite like the one used for the tournament.
The GCC Outlaws split their pool A matches by winning two and losing
two, but doing well enough to earn a spot in the semi-finals on Sunday. With their lesson learnt, the team regrouped to face the winners of Pool B, QRC, in their make-or-break semi-final. In one of the more exciting matches of the tournament, the underdog Outlaws managed to score a goal three minutes in through a Luke Sargeant solo effort. QRC had their chances, but were foiled on a couple of occasions by goalkeeper Alex Peniston for GCC. The Outlaws grew in confidence and finished strong, but were unable to add to their tally. Nevertheless, the single goal was enough to earn them a spot in the final.
In the final, despite outplaying their opponents, ProSport 2, the GCC Outlaws, now brimming with confidence, came
ever so close, but failed to score a goal. With the final score remaining 0-0, the victors were decided by a penalty shootout. The first round saw some exciting defence with both teams failing to score, taking the shootout into sudden death. Sargeant finally broke the deadlock and GCC goalkeeper Peniston managed to save his clean sheet by blocking the next ProSport 2 attempt. With this final victory, the GCC Outlaws took the podium as Under-17 boys champions.
GCC striker Sargeant was named Most Valuable Player of the Tournament while Peniston was adjudged the Best Goalkeeper. Those two, along with midfielder Grant Fernandes, were named in an All-Star selection by the tournament organisers.
St Pius, Enterprise, Rosignol win big as Pee-Wee
football kicks off
The Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground, Carifesta Avenue was a hive of activity on Saturday as the 11th edition of the Courts Optical Pee-Wee Under-11 schools’ football tournament got underway with a slew of exciting match-ups.
There, defending champions St Pius Primary sent a strong warning to the rest of the competition, pulling off a 12-1 victory over St Mary’s Primary.
Jovaine Wright (3rd, 7th, 10th, 40th) netted a helmet trick, followed by Emmanuel Forte (27th, 30th), Roy Cossou (18th, 25th) and Leon Crawford (32nd, 38th) with doubles. Aleem Younge (15th) and Akeem Quintin (36th) scored one goal each to seal the victory. Dequacy
campaigner in Dontay Kowlessar (7th, 16th, 31st, 34th) registered a helmet trick while his teammate, Shine Arthur (28th, 36th, 39th, 40th) also netted four
Paul netted St Mary’s consolation goal.
Also pulling off a massive victory on Saturday were St John the Baptist Primary out of Region Seven, defeating Genesis Primary 10-0. Kriston Chandler (3rd, 6th, 32nd) and Kareme Welcome (7th, 10th, 40th) both secured hat-tricks for St John the Baptist, while Marcellus Elvis (23rd, 30th) had a double strike, with Samany Harrison (12th) and Joel De Andrade (26th) securing one goal each.
By a similar margin, Enterprise Primary got the better of FE Pollard Primary. An experienced
goals. A brace off the boots of Dazell Fernandes (42nd, 43rd) sealed the opening win for Enterprise.
On the back of a Jeremiah Mc Donald hattrick (5th, 30th, 34th), Rosignol Primary overcame Smith’s Memorial Primary 7-0. Both Abdul Kadir (10th, 16th) and Jaime Burne (18th, 21st) scored two goals to boost Rosignol’s tally.
Then, a team effort from Den Amstel Primary saw them walking away with a 5-0 victory over West Ruimveldt Primary. Kester Jacobs netted a brace, accompanied by one goal each off the boots of Trevon Lewis
(6th), Andrew Robin (9th) and Jamil Henry (11thh) to account for their five goals. In other results, Winfer Gardens Primary and Potaro Primary both secured 2-0 victories over Tucville and Redeemer Primary Schools respectively. Maaliq Stanley (10th) and Omari St Hill (20th) were the ones to find the back of the net for Winfer Gardens. On the other hand, Kendrick La Rose (14th) and Coltn Telemaque (28th) were the goalscorers for Potaro Primary. Meanwhile, one goal each from Cristiano La Rose and Alexander Vasconcellos powered Marian Academy to a win against Georgetown International Academy. Cristiano La Rose and Alexander Vasconcellos found the back of the net for Marian Academy in the sixth and 36th minutes respectively while Yacine Amri scored GIA’s lone goal. Tapakuma Lake Primary, Batavia Primary, Belladrum Primary, Ann’s Grove Primary, Santa Rosa Primary, North Georgetown Primary, St Gabriel’s Primary and Colaaco Primary all picked up points via the walk- over route. The second round of the Pee-Wee U11 group stage will be contested this Saturday, September 28 when the tournament is scheduled to continue.
to victory, finishing ahead
Miracle Star. Easy Bella ran
GCC’s U17 boys’ hockey team
Javid Ali and his Slingerz Racing Stables were jubilant after winning another major title in Guyana’s horse racing
A look at last Saturday’s action in the Pee- Wee U11 tournament powered by Courts Optical
