Guyana Times - Wednesday, May 29, 2024.pdf

with Pres Ali, visits Albouystown

shareholders sign off on US$53B sale to Chevron

dies after pit collapses at Frenchman backdam

of vendors M&CC takes defiant vendors to court for returning in front of businesses

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Wednesday, May 29 –22:00h-23:30h and Thursday, May 30 – 23:00h-00:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, May 29 –08:25h-09:55h and Thursday, May 30 – 09:35h-11:05h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery to light rain showers are expected during the day and at night. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to South South-Easterly between 0.89 metre and 2.68 metres.

High Tide: 08:41h and 21:29h reaching maximum heights of 2.39 metres and 2.26 metres.

Low Tide: 14:52h reaching a minimum height of 0.82 metre.

Visiting US Congressman hears of advancements in Mocha-Arcadia

…meets with Pres Ali, visits Albouystown

Visiting United States (US) Congressman, Jonathan Jackson was on Tuesday given a tour of various areas in Georgetown and on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), where he met with residents of MochaArcadia to hear their concerns.

The Illinois politician was accompanied by Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond; Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy and Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar.

Jackson, who visited the community at the request of President Dr Irfaan Ali, used his open-

complaining about last year’s eviction of squatters who refused to accept the compensation offered by the government and instead made “spurious and unreasonable” demands for compensation, including cash several times the value of the property they were illegally occupying. In fact, of the 34 residents who were required to move, only seven held out and refused to move. The remainder were moved to other areas and given titles and compensation.

Moreover, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament Nima FlueBess, raised concerns about farmers' leases in the community, claiming that there were delays with their renewals. She

ing statements to reflect on the shared historical legacies of both the US and Guyana.

“I know our histories have so many parallels. I went by the statute of Emancipation, 1763, to see the abolitionist, Cuffy. It immediately shook my bones to think that it was 1963 that Reverend Martin Luther King gave that speech, "I Have A Dream",” he said.

“The history of slavery that has separated our people, we are the people of the Diaspora. Be it from Brazil, the northern coast of America, throughout the Caribbean. We are one people that have been separated by one boat stop. I’m here as one of your brothers, one of your colleagues, one of your friends. And I want to hear from you.”

With a number of residents from Mocha-Arcadia

out,” Flue-Bess claimed, making an appeal for an intervention.

Interventions

However, a lot of the claims of discrimination was refuted by People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Councillor on the Mocha-Arcadia’s NDC, Renata Moore, who explained the various interventions the government has made, from rehabilitating infrastructure to direct donations of farming supplies and livestock to farmers.

claimed that the lands are “ancestral lands.”

The Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) would have written to the government for assistance to have those lands sorted

“You know where we came from… over the past few years, the MochaArcadia community has benefitted from several infrastructure development. Such as rehabilitation of the bridge at the head of Nelson Street, streets

within the community of Mocha-Arcadia, such as Barnwell North and notwithstanding the historic Burnham Boulevard, just to name a few.”

“In order to increase production, equipment was provisioned and the farmers of the community are using that equipment in any and every aspect of land preparation in the farmlands, such as doing raised beds for the rainy season, land clearing and land development,” she further said.

Mention was also made of the government’s robust skills training programmes, such as the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), which have made a difference among the youths of Mocha.

Congressman Jackson and Minister Kwame McCoy during their meeting with Mocha residents

President Dr Irfaan Ali and Congressman Jonathan Jackson during their meeting on Tuesday

Editor: Tusika Martin

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As the young say: “We gotta be real”

One of the characteristics of the post-modern world is a quest for “authenticity”: as the young say, “We gotta be real”. The first problem with this much vaunted “authenticity” is that the very nature of the human self is artificial - shaped by its surrounding culture. However, by the West’s Enlightenment, individualistic premises, to the extent that cultural influences are important, are often seen as sources of alienation, coercion, and manipulation. The “true” self is touted to be that which is not a product of society, but that which resists conformity and makes individuals “unique”. As a result, the influencer is obsessed with novelty in all aspects of life – from art to lifestyles - touting the new simply because it is new.

But this romantic conception of the self is simply wrong. We are not plants or toads, whose development are largely an unfolding of prespecified potential. We are profoundly social animals, with brains wired to absorb and assimilate our surrounding culture, beginning most germanely with language. A person without culture is an abstraction-like form without content. The well-documented cases of “feral children” —that is, children who grew up with little human contact — are tragic testimonies to the indispensability of social learning. They were literally “non-human”.

Even a person’s most profound beliefs — those about God and the relationship between humans and the cosmos — are inextricably connected to culture. Hence the saliency of our ethnic ties in Guyana. However, we know what it is like to bow to social conventions and mask our feelings and opinions from others. More poignantly, we know the painful dissonance of dissembling about crucial components of our identity, our political beliefs, our sexuality, and so on. Does this not suggest an authentic self that persists behind our everyday social self, impervious to cultural accidents and influences, although it can remain forever hidden? And is it not to this self that we owe our loyalty?

Arguments like these can feel compelling because they fit in with our daily experience, even though traits and tendencies are different from what most of us would call a “self”. Humans are complicated and complex; capable of sublimating impulses to lying about them. This can be frustrating, debilitating, and, in some societies, tyrannically oppressive. But paradoxically, this is what also makes civilization possible. Because we are both cooperative and highly competitive, our thoughts and impulses can be prosocial or antisocial. Some of those antisocial thoughts and impulses are relatively benign, though potentially offensive. We cannot give in to unmediated impulses from our id. Some of our thoughts and impulses are coercive, violent, or destructive.

Few people are so virtuous that they have never wanted to humiliate, hit, or even kill another person. Some people are filled with rage and hate, and would happily dominate others if they were in a position to do so. One of the crucial functions of civilization is to curb these inclinations, so that we can cooperate (and compete) without constant violence. Democratic politics and the institutions that make it work is one such innovation. Although this might be frustrating on occasion, it leads to wealth, comfort, and cultural achievements that would otherwise be impossible.

The celebration of authenticity is premised, often only half-knowingly, on a quasi-Rousseauist belief that humans are naturally good, and only corrupted by society. But this belief is patently false: humans are not “naturally” good or evil, but created, as Kant phrased it, “out of this crooked timber”. As such, they are flawed, limited, and contradictory creatures, capable of envisioning a peaceful, cooperative society of abundance, but thwarted in achieving it because their efforts are undermined by selfishness and rivalry.

Although we cannot fully achieve our moral goals, we can, with the guidance of wise norms and institutions, create a lively and flourishing civilization. And the function of these wise norms and institutions, such as democracy and its institutions, is to suppress, discipline, and reshape our natural inclinations. It is, in other words, to produce a cultured and civilized — that is, a created — human. This should be the goal of “One Guyana”.

To observe World Turtles Day, and in an effort to promote and raise awareness on marine conservation, First Lady Arya Ali did a reading of the book “Arya takes a swim” for the students in her son Zayd’s class at School of the Nations. For this activity, she was joined by class teacher Esther and by Ms Malisa Nokta of Environmental Management Consultants Guyana. Derived from the Turtle Telemetry Programme that took place in May and June 2023 at Shell Beach, “Arya takes a swim” is a tribute to Guyana’s First Lady, in recognition of her unwavering commitment to environmental conservation (Office of the First Lady photo)

Call to prosecute Benjamin Netanyahu for war crimes exposes the West’s moral doublethink

By Simon TiSdall

Indignant protests by Israeli and US leaders over last week’s decision by the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to seek Benjamin Netanyahu’s arrest for alleged war crimes have shone new light on an old reality: for those at the top, who wield decisive political power, all people are equal; but some are more equal than others.

At the heart of objections to Karim Khan’s gutsy move is the unspoken implication that violence against Palestinians: a dispossessed, marginalized, and largely voiceless people, is less wrong, or somehow more acceptable than violence against Israelis - the privileged, protected citizens of an established nation state. To demur is to be accused, inanely yet inevitably, of antisemitism.

The self-reverencing fury of US and Israeli politicians, and some in Europe, is revealing – and dismaying. Hamas’s massacre of about 1,200 people last October was appalling, criminal, and unforgivable – and must and will be punished. It does not justify Israel’s disproportionate, illegal, and indiscriminately lethal response in Gaza. But they just don’t get it.

Palestinian lives matter as much as anyone else’s. How is it that Western politicians so easily tolerate, ignore, or defend the killing of about 35,000 people, at least 12,000 of whom were women and children (based on revised UN figures), through the bombing of homes and hospitals and the block-

ing and hijacking of aid?

Netanyahu, Israel’s Prime Minister, and US President Joe Biden insist that arraigning Israeli and Hamas leaders at the same time implies “moral equivalence”. This is nonsense. There are “reasonable grounds to believe”, as Khan and his expert advisers state, that both sides have committed grave criminal offences. All those responsible must answer equally, whoever and whatever they may be.

Netanyahu and his co-defendant, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, may think they are above the law, especially international law, which they contemptuously flout. Perhaps they believe, while enforcing the occupation of Palestinian areas, that Israel is, too. That is certainly the impression given by their army’s reckless conduct in Gaza.

If so, they are not alone. Vladimir Putin, Russia’s president, is accused of overseeing numerous crimes in Ukraine. The ICC issued an arrest warrant last year. Does this suggest “moral equivalence” with Hamas terrorists – or Netanyahu? No. It simply means that Putin, like any other individual, must answer for his alleged actions. Like them, his assumption of impunity is – and must be shown to be – false.

It’s surprising how difficult Western leaders find this concept of equality before the law, even as they prate about upholding the democratic, international rules-based order. Biden’s reaction was illogical, bordering on bizarre. “What’s happening is not genocide,” he said. But

the ICC is not saying it is. That’s a different court, Joe. Biden condemned efforts to arrest the two Israelis (but not the Hamas leaders) as “outrageous”. He has himself sharply criticised Israel’s starvation tactics in Gaza, a central ICC charge, and its failure to protect civilians. Yet now he balks at attempts to ensure those responsible are held accountable – while backing the ICC warrant for Putin. This is pick’n’mix justice.

As a trained lawyer, Antony Blinken, America’s top diplomat, should know better. Most of the world recognises Palestinian statehood. Spain, Ireland and Norway just signed up. No matter what Blinken says, the ICC has legal jurisdiction in Gaza. Nor should Palestinians have to wait for Israel’s compromised courts to investigate. On past experience, they would wait a very long time indeed.

Netanyahu and his aggressive spokesmen continue to laud the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) as “the world’s most moral army”. They claim, without offering evidence, that it does more than any other in history to avoid harming civilians. But the world is not blind – despite blanket Israeli restrictions on independent investigations and reporting.

Gaza is a manmade horror, unprecedented in the modern era. Direct comparisons are problematic and inexact. But measured by deaths and displacement, Gaza appears worse than Mosul (2017), Aleppo (2016), and even Grozny (1994-1995).

The Colonisation Scheme

By Ravi Dev

With the interests of the BG Government being coincident with King Sugar’s by most administrators, it was not surprising that the demand for cheap, reliable labour intensified during the 1890s, when sugar prices declined. Labour was the largest cost factor in the production of sugar. The Journal Timehri was the forum of local intellectual life, and took a strong proplanter line. In 1898, even as increases were made to the indentureds’ portion for repatriation while land-exchange programmes were planned, in the Timehri of that year, the article “Notes on Labour and the Necessity of Immigration for Sugar Estates” made the case for more immigrant labour.

After the abolition of Indentureship in 1917, the planters continued their scheming for cheap labour. In the 1919 edition of Timehri, the editor James Rodway wrote an extended article on “Labour and Colonisation”, in which he expanded on the need for a new scheme for “settlers”, who would work for three years on plantations then be granted land for settlement. In the same year, JA Luckhoo, the first Indian solicitor in the colony, relaunched the British Guiana East Indian Association (BGEIA) in Georgetown, after it had become inactive subsequent to its formation in 1916 in NA. Critchlow had also launched the BGLU in 1919, and there had moreover been launched a branch of Garvey’s United Negro Improvement League (UNIA), that preached a Pan African Ideology.

Initiation of the Colonisation Scheme

This is described in Timehri Vol VI 1919 when the Chairman of the Planters Association told the R.A.C.S. publishers of Timehri of the decrease in sugar cane acreage. A meeting of the Combined Court and other social organisations was convened on 27 Jan, 1919. They agreed on a Colonisation scheme that included the “creation of a special Sub-Committee to deal with West Indian and African

immigration and labour supply. Finally, it proposed the despatch of a Colonial deputation to England.”

Luckhoo, who had been elected as the first Indian representative in the legislature in 1916, along with Dr. Hewley Wharton, the first Indian doctor in Guyana, on behalf of the BGEIA, went to India in 1929-1930 to convince the Indian authorities of the feasibility of the colonisation scheme. They tried to sell it as the formation of an “Indian Colony” in South America, but opposed by Gandhi and others, they failed. Protests by African organizations such as the Negro Progress Convention (NPC), which was formed in 1922 and supported by Critchlow’s BGL and UNIA, about Africans being swamped led to their representatives being also authorized to solicit settlers from Africa or the West Indies.

Even though the debate within Br Guiana planted the seeds of ethnic political competition and another Committee of JA Luckhoo and Attorney General Nunan (a white official) visited India in 1923-24, the Colonization Scheme eventually collapsed.

Eventually, between 1920 and 1928, 1729 Immigrants arrived from the Caribbean (mainly Barbados) compared to 607 from India. Many sugar estates formed “Bajan Quarters” comprising of raised two-family cottages rather than logies - which was part of the agreement to entice them to come to B. Guiana.

Breaking down barriers of division

Dear Editor,

The flag-raising event to commemorate our 58th Independence Anniversary should have been a nonevent, so said the Opposition PNC.

Consumed by a spirit of negativity, they had asked the people of Linden to boycott the event. However, interestingly enough, that call to stay away was scoffed at by Lindeners, who otherwise came out in their numbers to another national milestone event.

This year's independence celebrations in Linden marks another step

in the bonding of our nation in unity as we journey on the road of development and progress. No longer would we allow ourselves to be divided by politics, race, or geographical location; we are all one people, one nation, and looking forward to arriving at a unified destination.

The Opposition's retrograde call stems from the fact that they claim Linden to be a PNC Exclusive Zone, and, as such, a PPP/C Government has no business holding an event there. Nice sounding words to those who wish to see us divided. However, that did

Call to prosecute...

Palestinians are also dying in record numbers in the Occupied West Bank. Only the codependent arrogance and ignorance of those leading Israel-friendly countries explain the tolerance afforded long-established patterns of atrocious behaviour. In Britain, Rishi Sunak called the ICC move “deeply unhelpful”. What is he thinking? Is it “unhelpful” to try to curb lawless killing? Is it “unhelpful” to seek justice? This is not moral equivalence. It’s total moral confusion.

Some in Israel do get it. The left-leaning Haaretz newspaper said a larger strategic failure had led to ICC action. “Israel embarked on a justified war…that at first had broad international support. But mismanagement of this war, the callousness and craven stupidity of this government, has transformed Israel into a global pariah.”

Problems of presumed political untouchability are not confined to Israel. Yet, in Paris last week, three high-ranking officials in Bashar al-As-

not take place, which sends a clear message to the Opposition that we now stand together as one people.

Gone are the days of the PNC's triumphalism and no-go areas, we are now in the state where every habitable place in these 83,000 square miles of territory is open to Government to meet and fellowship with its people.

the town council instead.

FROM PAGE 4

sad’s Syrian tyranny faced trial in absentia for crimes against humanity. Invoking “universal jurisdiction”, France has also issued an arrest warrant for Assad. It’s a principled gesture that follows similar action by other European countries.

Like Putin, Assad, and another ICC indictee, Sudan’s deposed dictator Omar al-Bashir, Netanyahu may calculate he would never stand in the dock in The Hague. Yet, can he be sure? For, despite the Orwellian double standards of some in the West, it was, overall, a good week for international justice.

In another advance, the UN’s International Court of Justice ordered Israel to halt its offensive in Rafah, in southern Gaza. The gathering message is plain. Impunity cannot stand. For war criminals, there may be no lasting sanctuary. No one, however powerful, is above the law. Everyone has a right to protection. (The Guardian)

(Simon Tisdall is the Observer’s Foreign Affairs Commentator)

The Linden situation reminds us of an earlier time when President Bharrat Jagdeo visited the squatting area of Angoy's Avenue on the outskirts of New Amsterdam. That visit brought consternation from the PNCcontrolled municipality there. In that instance, the PNC's contention was: (a) the President should have asked their permission to go to the squatting area, and: (b) the monetary handout of $10M should have been handed over to

Again, this highlights another attempt by the PNC at asserting themselves with that "control" dogma. President Jagdeo quickly curbed their enthusiasm with the statement, "I am President of all of Guyana", hence no place is excluded from his outreach and no place is excluded from his largesse. The PNC have, over the years, valiantly struggled with that reality, backing themselves into a miserable corner as their so-called grip on strongholds slowly diminish.

What the PNC must realize is that Guyana has moved on, never to be the same again. We are now looking forward to a new Guyana: where peace, progress and harmony reigns supreme.

Respectfully,

Neil Adams

JA Luckhoo

First tractor imported by an East Indian

Page Foundation

CSEC MATHS

Read the following advertisement carefully and answer the questions.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIPS

1. Keep fixtures and bulbs clean. Dirt can absorb as much as 50% of light.

2. Turn off the lights when leaving a room even if it's only for a few minutes. It's just a myth that it takes more energy to turn a light on than to leave it on.

3. Use motion sensors for outdoor lights. They're a good security measure that doesn't waste energy.

4. Use lower wattage bulbs; your lights may be brighter than you need.

5. Purchase lamps with dimmer switches, as you can lower the settings when less light is required.

6. Place floor or table lamps in a corner. This allows light to reflect from the walls, making the room brighter without turning on more lights.

7. Use fluorescent lights instead of incandescent lights. Compact fluorescent lights use up to 75% less energy than incandescent lights, for the same amount of light and last up to ten times longer.

1. The main purpose of this advertisement is to

(A) sell light bulbs (B) promote lighting in the home (C) encourage better energy use (D) hightlight energy use in the home

2. Which of the following is the BEST meaning of the word "absorb" as used in Tip 1 of the advertisement?

(A) Use up (B) Soak up (C) Take in (D) Swallow up

3. Which of the following practices is

recommended?

(A) Turning off all lights for a minute (B) Turning off the lights for short periods (C) Keeping the lights on when leaving a room

(D) Turning off the lights when leaving a room

4. The advertisement emphasizes that motion sensors are important because they

(A) are efficient and provide security (B) are cheaper and brighter (C) do not waste energy (D) use energy indoors

US Embassy committed to bringing more leading American firms to Guyana – Snr Commercial Officer

…as Embassy holds discussion exploring potential for AI in construction sector

The United States Embassy in Guyana has made clear its commitment to bringing more leading American companies to Guyana, including companies that can share knowledge and expertise with local companies and make major contributions in areas such as construction.

On Tuesday, a US Embassy conference saw discussions on digitisation and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in construction.

Senior Commercial Officer of the US Embassy, Daniel Gaines was present and spoke about the Embassy’s work bringing US companies to Guyana.

“President [Irfaan] Ali often states the United States is the preferred partner in Guyana’s development. And we take such great pride in that. And each and every day we continue to work and show up and bring leading firms to Guyana, to share knowledge and to also serve as potential partners for Guyanese companies,” he stated. For instance, Gaines spoke of the potential transformation that AI and digitisation could

usher in to various sectors. One such sector is the construction sector, which is currently riding a wave of momentum in Guyana amid the Government’s bold infrastructural programme.

“I know the Honourable Minister can discuss this in greater detail than me, but when I look at modern and affordable housing, to all of the roads and bridges, hospitals that Guyana is developing, if we can use the power of AI into our workflow, it’s going to hold so much promise.

“So, whether it’s optimising construction schedules, predicting equipment maintenance needs, or even just assessing project risks, AI is revolutionising how we approach project management in the construction space,” he further explained.

Visiting US Congressman...

There was also a recently concluded Information Communication Technology (ICT) programme that residents benefitted from.

“Provision of grants for the establishment of small businesses are also available and given to families. The final point I want to make is an indirect development that has a direct impact on the residents of MochaArcadia. I am referring to the new Heroes’ Highway. Though this highway is not within the boundary of Mocha-Arcadia, since it has been developed the values of properties in the community has increased dramatically.”

“Like many other developments of this nature, there were many uncomfortable decisions made to relocate families. Nevertheless, these families are adequately compensated for their displacement,” Moore added.

Strides

Meanwhile, Minister McCoy spoke both of the strides the government has made in improving conditions in communities like Mocha-Arcadia, but also acknowledged that more remains to be done. Nevertheless, he stressed that there is much to celebrate already.

“The partnership that has been extended by this village, especially over the last three years, as we work together to move the community forward, is one that is truly impressive and continues to enjoy our admiration and support as a government,” the Minister said.

“We have so much to celebrate in terms of our diversity, our ethnic diversity, (and) in terms of our progress and our development and of course the way we are manoeuvring the challenges that exist amongst us

ture and your own niche is not lost,” the Minister declared.

He also announced that the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) would be facilitating engineers and lawyers from the AG chambers to do courses concerning the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC).

FROM PAGE 3

as a country… the global challenges and our own internal challenges. Nevertheless, (we are) moving along in the way that many of our Guyanese brothers and sisters are proud of.”

Additionally, commitments were made by the government that they would return to hear the concerns of the residents and to act upon them. One promise made was that counselling would be offered to those who were affected by the eviction of the squatters last year.

Congressman Jackson, who is the son of US civil rights activist Reverend Jesse Jackson, first arrived at President Ali’s invitation to participate in Guyana’s 58th Independence Anniversary celebrations. During his visit in Guyana, he has met with the President and other government officials, as well as members of the opposition. (G3)

Digitisation

Meanwhile, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill spoke about the ways in which digitisation could help the construction process, and zeroed in on the design phase.

“We have to be able to use the technology that is available, to drive us into the future. But that technology must also be able to communicate with us that our values, the things that we really cherish, must never be lost. So, it’s not just about being modern. It’s being modern in an environment where your cul-

“I’m happy to announce tonight that through GOAL, the Government of Guyana has just made it possible by paying for our engineers, lawyers from the Attorney General chambers and technicians who have to do contract management, to do special courses in understanding FIDIC rules and FIDIC applications,” Minister Edghill added.

Since taking office in 2020, the Government has allocated over 20,000 house lots in new and existing housing schemes across Guyana. Additionally, more land will be acquired for new housing areas across the country.

The Government,

he added, is committed to ensuring that every Guyanese family would realise their aspirations of becoming a homeowner. In pursuit of this, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration has taken the approach to open up new lands, put the requisite infrastructure in place, accelerate the allocation process, support those who require prebuilt homes, and provide easy access to finance.

In 2022, $28.2 billion was expended on the continuation of infrastructural works in new housing areas across the country including Onderneeming, Charity, Leonora, Cummings Lodge, Great Diamond, Golden Grove, Nonpareil, Enterprise, Experiment, Williamsburg, Lethem and Linden, realising 10,430 serviced lots.

The Government has, meanwhile, allocated $75 billion in its 2024 budget to continue the housing programme. Some 10,000 house lots are scheduled to be distributed this year. (G3)

Senior Commercial Officer of the US Embassy, Daniel Gaines

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill

Old friends…

…in Kenya?

Kenya has just been chosen by the US as a “non-NATO ally” –the first in Sub Saharan Africa!! Now, this is quite an honour, and should give us hope that we, too, can emerge from our divisiveness and become respected in the world! We and Kenya both got or independence around the same time – and faced similar challenges.

It's a kind of evolution, innit? Reacting to similar conditions leads to similar societies in all their manifestations. While you may think that we’re unique with our “land of six peoples”, each of the colonised African countries had at least dozens of tribes. But they were forced to think of themselves as a “nation” - just because some European rulers arbitrarily drew lines across Africa and declared pieces of real estate “countries”!!

Like us, they were states, but not nations, and had to deal with all the contradictions for over sixty years.

Kenya is the powerhouse of East Africa – as we’re becoming in the Caribbean. It has some 47 tribes, but three are major –like us!! So, democratic elections forced politicians to use the cleavages to mobilise votes - and their parties became dominated by tribal - what we’d call “ethnic” - divisions. Like us, after a long period of one-party, “big man” rule, they’ve been struggling to bring their politics into a more peaceful mode. After their 2007 elections -- which were disputed, and more than 1200 persons died in clashes between the competing parties -- they made some radical constitutional changes. Among other things, these forced cooperation between the parties, and also introduced some strict rules on the electoral machinery, to ensure transparency in the counting of votes. Sounds familiar??

But no matter how you change the rules, it’s up to the politicians to follow those rules, ain’t it?? And that’s where the problem lies. In Kenya, two of the oldest political competitors in the struggle for independence were Jomo Kenyatta and Oginga Odinga – and they represented two of the major tribes. It was their supporters, led by their sons, Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga, who created the mayhem in 2007. But after the 2017 elections - which Kenyatta’s party won - he fell out with his deputy, William Ruto, and brought in his old rival Odinga!!

Now, you’d think that this is a good thing, no? Sorta like Ali bringing in Norton and kicking out Phillips!! But it was a coalition of the old politics, which was intended to continue with the corruption that had plagued Kenya. So, in 2022, Ruto had to run on his own, and he billed the election as “the dynasties” versus the “hustlers” – with him “hustling”, like most Kenyans!! He won the elections, and has governed peacefully by reaching across the divide!!

Sounds familiar??

…in Suriname?

Some (well-meaning) Guyanese think that if our two competing parties -- which go back to our independence struggle, like in Kenya -- were to come together, all our troubles would be over!!! That’s a thought that’s gained traction over the years –and has been tried in several other divided societies. But what unfolded in Kenya isn’t unique; and, in fact, becomes the rule: two man-crab can’t live in the same hole: it’s like putting two big cats to guard the milk!! The corruption increases exponentially!! Isn’t this what happened next-door in Suriname also?? Why’d you think they’re bankrupt, in the hands of the IMF, and their citizens are marching in the streets?? For years, their coalition governments have had to hire supporters in such numbers that practically the entire country’s on the government’s payroll!! Ain’t no way to run a country!!

And so, let Kenya, and Suriname, and so many other places that tried this “Executive Power sharing”, be object lessons for us!!

Ain’t no quick fixes.

…in politics?

As the PNC Congress approaches, things are heating up!! We have one charge that the Leader summarily dismissed the North American region executives and installed his friends. Then there’s the case of the missing CPU!! What next??

Govt still verifying findings with Exxon in 2nd cost oil audit – Jagdeo

The second cost oil audit of

ExxonMobil’s 2018 to 2020 expenses remain an open book, as the government is still in talks with the oil giant to clarify certain points raised by the auditors, comprising a consortium of local and international firms.

This was clarified by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, during his press conference last week while giving an update on the cost oil audits.

There have been three so far. With regard to the second one, covering the years 2018 to 2020, Jagdeo explained that the government is still verifying certain details in the audit.

“The second one, they still are writing Exxon and awaiting responses on a lot of the issues that you have serialised in the Kaieteur News. And I hope you acknowledge that it was we who released both audits. So, they’re no longer secret documents. The audits have been released,” Jagdeo said.

This second audit was carried out by a consortium of local and international firms. Guyanese firms

Ramdihal and Haynes Chartered Accounting, Vitality Accounting and Consultancy, and Eclisar had partnered

with Oklahoma-based Martindale Consultants and Swizterland-based SGS to conduct the audit.

When it comes to the first audit, Jagdeo said that this audit should have been closed by now, since the government has already determined it will go to arbitration with Exxon.

“The last conversation I had on this matter was that we need to close the first audit. Formally say (it is closed). So, I have to find out if that was done. And it should have been done. Because that was about three weeks ago that they had to write and say, we have differences of opinion over US$214

million. So that letter, closing it with Exxon.”

“So, there’s no room for negotiation anymore. That is clear. Then you trigger the procedures according to the PSA. They try to meet, to see through maybe a mediator to see if you can close the gap. And if not, you go to full arbitration. So that should have been done,” the Vice President added.

In 2019, British firm IHS Markit conducted an audit of ExxonMobil’s cost oil expenses racked up between 1999 and 2017 from its operations in Guyana and flagged US$214.4 million as questionable costs. Following months of its own review, the Guyana

Revenue Authority (GRA) – the technical body tasked with advising the Government on the audited oil expenses – supported the US$214.4 million disputed sum.

Based on the 2016 oil contract that was signed between ExxonMobil and the then A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government, Guyana will have to incur the cost of the oil company’s legal fees should the matter go to arbitration.

The audit of cost oil claims is critical to ensuring that Guyana does not lose out on millions in oil revenues. ExxonMobil’s pre-contract costs were

inherited by the current Government when it entered office in 2020. US$460 million in pre-contract costs were already written into the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA). The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has expressed optimistically as they can conclude, by this year-end, the three cost oil audits spanning the years 1999 to 2023, bringing all audits of ExxonMobil’s cost oil expenses to a current status. In addition to the 1999-2017 and the 20182020 audits, the 2021 to 2023 audit also has to be completed. (G3)

Wanted bulletin issued for Berbice man over murder of US-based Guyanese

Three years after the brutal murder of United States based Guyanese businessman, Hemraj Pardesi, the Guyana Police Force is still searching for 34-yearold Jason Isaacs of Bristol Street, East Canje, Berbice, in connection with the crime.

On Tuesday, the police force issued a wanted bulletin for the man, seeking the public’s help to locate him. The police are asking anyone with information on Issac’s whereabouts to contact the Force on 2266979, 225-8196, 227-1611, 225-2317, 225-8196, 6388440, or the nearest Police station.

In 2021, the police first issued a wanted bulletin for Isaacs regarding Pardesi’s murder, but he has since evaded capture. Pardesi, known as “Prem,” of Lot 9 Reliance, East Canje, Berbice, was attacked in his yard by two

suspects in August 2021 after his close associate, who had accompanied him to the bank earlier that day, had left.

His lifeless body was discovered at the bottom of his outdoor steps, bleeding from his nose with duct

Worker seriously injured in accident at Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base

An employee of Saipem Guyana Inc was seriously injured on Saturday in an accident at the Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base Inc (VEHSI) facility, West Coast Demerara, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

Injured is Collis Hall, an operator.

As a result, the Labour Ministry said it has launched an investigation.

Reports are that Hall was using a 400-tonne Manitowoc Walk Crawler during a test loading exercise when it suddenly toppled over at about 18:57h causing him to be seriously injured.

He was subsequently transported to the Woodlands Hospital, where he remains a patient.

Assistant Chief Occupational Safety & Health Officer at the Ministry, Maxean Bess, is conducting the investigation.

In a statement on

Tuesday, the ministry said that Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton, has repeatedly stressed the importance of ensuring safety and health in workplaces and on worksites to facilitate the safe return of workers to their families at the end of the work day or work period. According to the ministry the manager and safety & health officer have since given statements on the matter.

In February, a Venezuelan national Rusbel Azocar died in an accident at the VEHSI facility, which utilises reclaimed land in the Demerara River. The Ministry said its investigation indicated that Azocar fell into a hole.

He was reportedly not wearing a life jacket, which was mandated to prevent drowning. He was an employee of Gas Total Solution Inc.

tape around his neck. The upper flat of his house was ransacked.

Days after Pardesi’s death, Maryo Bissoondyal of Cumberland, East Canje Berbice, and Malisha Dutchin, 26, of Reliance, East Canje, were charged and remanded for his murder. Police arrested Bissoondyal while he was hiding in Canje Creek, Berbice, where he allegedly confessed to being part of the plot and execution of the robbery-murder.

He implicated Dutchin and Isaacs, revealing that

the robbery was reportedly Dutchin’s plan. Dutchin later surrendered to authorities, allegedly admitting she had a relationship with Pardesi and had called him to her house the night he was killed, but claimed she knew nothing of what happened afterward.

However, Bissoondyal allegedly told the police that Dutchin lured Pardesi to her house via a phone call and contacted Isaacs after he left. Bissoondyal and Isaacs then went to Pardesi’s yard and reportedly attacked him.

In January, when Bissoondyal was arraigned before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow in the Berbice High Court he entered a guilty plea to the 2021 murder of Pardesi.

He was sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after serving 30 years.

Despite the Guyana Police Force’s efforts, Isaacs has remained elusive. In October 2023, he was accused of fatally shooting Guyanese fisherman Curtis Brown, also known as “Big” or “Cats,” in Suriname.

Brown, was formerly of Queenstown, Corriverton, Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).

At the time of his death, Brown was attempting to break up a fight between Issacs and another man, when Isaacs allegedly shot him in the face, resulting in his death. (G9)

Murdered: Hemraj Pardesi Murder accused: Malisha Dutchin

Jailed: Maryo Bissoondyal Wanted: Jason Isaacs

Removal of vendors M&CC takes defiant vendors to court for returning in front of businesses

The Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is urging vendors in the capital city to respect the position of businesses, who have written the municipality following a court order, for the removal of stalls and other encumbrances surrounding their premises. This call was issued

by M&CC Town Clerk Candace Nelson, who explained that council will take defiant vendors to court for plying their trade outside business premises after being evicted.

According to Nelson, several persons have already been contacted by the City Constabulary Department and asked to desist from returning

to business premises, from where they council has already removed them following letters from these establishments to the M&CC.

However, following their refusal to do so, those individuals were summoned by the court by way of an order and are currently awaiting hearing for this specific violation.

She explained that City Council is aware of the challenge posed due to the situation, especially since it continues to receive notices from businesses requesting that more vendors be removed.

Among them are Continental Agencies Limited, Camex Restaurants Inc., Popeyes Guyana Water Street location and Torginol Paints Inc. City Engineers Department are in talks with the various entities to resolve the issue.

“As long as we're aware that persons go back after they were removed, the constabulary department summons those persons to court… It's about respecting the order of the court, as well as the council and the businesses. Because persons are given notices, very long notices, for their removal. And for those who did not move, we had to step in and have those persons removed. Well, most of them moved as a matter of fact, when we turned up to re -

move them. But it was explained to them that as a result of the court order, they cannot return to those positions,” Nelson disclosed.

As it relates to the relocation of vendors, Nelson disclosed that no plan has been finalised by the municipality just yet.

She explained that the matter regarding eviction notices must be resolved first, so Council can examine the extent of damages and cater for those affected.

“I know that there is something in the pipeline for the extension of the market to accommodate more vendors in that area, but that's the only thing I know that we have spoken about. That has not materialised just yet. I'm not sure when either because, of course, we're speaking about finances. But I really don't want to give any personal reassurance at this time because it would just be lying to persons and I will not be doing that,” she added.

Only recently, the council removed vendors plying outside of Demico House in the Stabroek Market area.

This was done in keeping with a Court Order.

The court orders, granted by Justice Navindra Singh in April, came in response to an application filed by Banks DIH Limited, the parent company of Demico House. Those

orders directed senior City Council officials to clear the pavement and surroundings outside the popular restaurant of vendors and their stands, structures, and belongings. Specifically, they were mandated to remove carts, drays, barrels, boxes, dustbins, tents, palettes, coolers, mobile stalls, and any other movable items obstructing the property.

Banks DIH Limited had claimed in the court action that the vending situation outside its premises adversely affects business operations.

A similar court order was granted in favour of Discount Store on Regent Street, Georgetown. Likewise, in November 2023 the court also granted an order to remove vendors from in front of Muneshwers Ltd, Water Street, Georgetown.

In that case, the applicant had said in its proceedings that the M&CC have completely disregarded their statutory responsibility and have allowed the proliferation of the encumbering of the pavements and streets around the building.

In December 2021, a High Court judge ordered vendors operating in front of the Shamdas Kirpalani building, Regent Street, Georgetown to be removed by the M&CC. Kirpalani’s case was filed in 2010. (G1)

M&CC Town Clerk Candace Nelson

Over 350 dengue cases recorded in Region 6 for May

The Regional Health Department in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) said that no new cases of dengue were recorded in the region over the holiday weekend.

According to Regional Health Officer (RHO), Dr Vishalya Sharma, despite no new cases being recorded over the weekend, the region has recorded 374 positive dengue cases so far for the month of May.

On Tuesday, the RHO said the places of interest based on the last reported cases were Adelphi, Goed Bananen Land and Reliance in East Canje along with Sandvoort in West Canje and Sisters and Heathburn on the East bank of Berbice.

Additionally, Vrymans Erven and Smythfield in New Amsterdam along with Sheet Anchor were also listed as places of interest.

Only recently seven students housed at the Port Mourant Training Centre (PMTC), Hostel tested positive for dengue.

This was after two students collapsed and had to be hospitalised earlier in the month.

The parents of one of the students were not informed of the situation by neither the school nor the hospital. After being at the medical facility for two days, a nurse who recognised the student called his mother and informed her of the situation.

Six other students who complained of feeling unwell were also tested positive for the mosquito-borne disease.

However, in light of the development, stu-

dents were all sent home on Friday. Students were told to return on Tuesday. According to one student, the campus is infested with mosquitoes.

According to a source close to the Regional Health department the area surrounding the hostel and other sections of the community were fogged out but the blood-sucking insects were visible again a few days after.

The source said the hostel and by extension will remain closed until the area is sanitised of mosquitoes. That process has commenced. (G4)

Law, Constitutional Reform Commissions

Next generation being brought into decision making – Pres Ali

…as remaining members sworn in

The remaining members of the Law and Constitutional Reform Commissions took the

oaths of office on Tuesday before President Dr. Irfaan Ali at the Office of the President. Joining Attorney

at Law Emily Dodson and former Opposition Member of Parliament and Indigenous Rights Advocate, Lenox

Shuman and other members at the Law Reform Commission is Dr Marie Correia and Everton Singh-Lammy.

Meanwhile, General Secretary for A New and United Guyana (ANUG), Timothy Jonas, SC from the Joinder Parties; Kamal Ramkarran, representing the Guyana Bar Association and Keoma Griffith from Christian Organisations will now join several Members of Parliament and civil society bodies at the Constitutional Reform Commission.

During his address at the swearing in ceremony, President Dr Irfaan Ali spoke of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of society and the need to make necessary reforms to the legislative architecture to protect the explosive development and to be responsive to modern justice demands.

On this point, the Head of State expressed his confidence in the commissions continuing its work and delivering exemplary service.

He noted that the Government is pleased with all the appointees and new voices, which will play an integral role in ensuring the country remains competitive and efficient, as its citizens enjoy a high level of judicial service that is complex and not complicated.

“The type of representation that we see, it also shows that our country is bringing the next generation of important human asset into the frame

of decision making, a very high level, and also being part of what will be the fundamental basis for our nation in this constitution and also in the law revision commission,” President Ali said.

The Guyanese leader added that the commissions, will allow the country to keep abreast with developments while supporting a modern legal framework, which will ensure the Guyana’s development trajectory is relevant to the world.

He explained that investments have and will continue to be aside for this purpose.

“In the judiciary we have tremendous work ongoing to make the judiciary more efficient, more reliable to ensure that the judiciary is placed in a modern frame and not only work in terms of physical infrastructure, investment in equipment and so on but work in terms of ensuring we have the right human asset deployed to meet the requirements of our country,” he added.

The first cohort of members of the Law Reform Commission which also include Teni Housty, Deenawati Panday, and Clarissa Riehl were sworn in on January 23, 2024 while 17 of the 20 members of the Constitutional Reform Commission were sworn in on April 3, 2024.

The remaining members of the Law and Constitutional Reform Commissions with President Dr Irfaan Ali; Attorney General Anil Nandlall and Chancellor (ag) Yonette Cummings-Edwards at the swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday at the Office of the President

Ramsammy’s Ruminations

Guyana’s 58th Independence Anniversary – every reason for us to celebrate

Most Guyanese on May 26, 1966 mostly grew up on mud dams, in homes occupied by multiple families, often with great grandparents and great grandchildren all living in the same home, often sleeping on floors. In some areas, people were still living in logies. Only about 30% of Guyanese children were able to attend secondary school.

The first university in our country, derisively referred to as “Jagan Night School”, had just started. Outside of a small public service, sugar and bauxite were the only largescale employment. Most others made a living through fishing and farming.

We have come a long way since May 1966.

While most people by 1990 had begun to question whether Independence was a good thing, with high hopes mostly dashed because the first two-and-a-half decades after independence found Guyana mired in poverty and hopelessness through a brutal dictatorship, today we have every reason to celebrate our independence. It is ironic that those who dashed the hopes and aspirations that were high on May 26, 1966 were the very ones who also removed May 26 as a holiday in our country. We became the only country in the world that did not celebrate our independence as a holiday.

Cheddi Jagan and the PPP returned May 26 as a holiday, and also revived the hopes and aspirations that followed the first flag-raising ceremony in Guyana.

Guyana has every reason to celebrate our independence. Since May 26, 1966, Guyana has moved from being a poor colonial country to becoming a highly-indebted poor country(HIPC), to a middle-income country, to a highincome country. While we have had periods of tension, while ethnic and racial tensions continue to be a challenge, we have never experienced sustained mass conflict. We have gone from where the vast majority of Guyanese families lived in almost extreme poverty to where less than 20% live in poverty. We have more than tripled the number of family-owned homes, where most Guyanese families now own a vehicle, where a significant number of people are collegeeducated, where life expectancy has surpassed 70, where we have universal access to primary and secondary schools across our country, and university education has reached into poor families in every region of our country.

Just consider that, in 2023, more than 44,000 vehicles were imported into Guyana. This means that in a single year now, we are bringing in significantly more vehicles than the total number of vehicles that existed in our country at independence.

Guyana is in the process of removing any mud dams in our communities, most recreation grounds now have some form of flood-lights, electricity has reached most communities, potable water is accessible by more than 95% of our people, health care is universal. Every Guyanese family can now realistically hope to live in their own home. Our doctors, lawyers and engineers are children from every region. Guyana now beckons as the Caribbean’s breadbasket, finally. And Guyana is pivotal to the global aspirations of food security, energy security, and climate security.

This year, we celebrated the traditional flag-raising in Linden, Region 10. From reports coming out of Linden, the 2024 flag-raising ceremony was one of the most impressive of all the 58 flag-raising ceremonies so far. In spite of the hard work of the Opposition to have the event boycotted, the people of Linden and Region 10 ignored the demand from the Opposition and participated fully. Aubrey Norton, the Leader of the Opposition, is no Cheddi Jagan. But he would have benefitted had he learnt a lesson from the great Cheddi; he could have attended the event and showed that, when it comes to Guyana, petty politics will not daunt him from standing with Guyanese in a show of unity. Cheddi stood by Forbes Burnham’s side as Forbes Burnham hoisted the Golden Arrowhead for the first time. The hoisting of the flag should never be an event that divides a nation. Like securing our borders, celebrating our independence must be an occasion to unite, rather than to divide. When it comes to our independence, the people took a stance – they will never boycott our nation.

The son of the great American Civil Rights Leader Jessie Jackson, now a US Congressman, attended the event. He saw firsthand that the story being spread by the PNC and their henchmen in Brooklyn -- of massive discrimination against Afro-Guyanese -- is bogus. In his visit to Guyana, he saw for himself the robustness of development taking place, and that citizens across Guyana are benefitting. He saw that President Irfaan Ali and his government were welcomed and embraced in a town that has remained one of the fortresses of the PNC.

The truth is that the solidarity and unity of Cheddi Jagan’s 1953 movement, which eluded Guyana for all the years of our independence, is poised to return. I am one of the optimistic Guyanese that never gave up on Jagan’s eternal fight to unite our country. In spite of the conviction that many still harbour, that racial and ethnic unity is an impossible dream, I believe that our country can demonstrate in real terms that ethnic and racial diversity is an asset.

President Irfaan Ali and the PPP are poised to shatter forever the barriers that have kept our people divided. LGE 2023 has already shown that the iron grip of racial voting has begun to crumble. Elections 2025 will dismantle the myth that voting in Guyana would always be race-based.

President Irfaan Ali and the PPP Government have utilized a ONE GUYANA policy perspective to drive this unity. The fissures that have begun to become visible in the iron clutch of racism in our country are not coincidental, or happening by accident. The 1968 slogan of feeding, clothing and housing the nation, which followed independence, is really happening in Guyana, finally. It took a while, but the hopes and aspirations that prevailed in 1966 were not in futility.

GPHC celebrates landmark achievement in reproductive surgery …as

woman previously

struggling with infertility gives birth

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) on Tuesday announced a medical achievement made by a team of gynecologists and obstetricians, who helped a patient, who had been struggling with secondary infertility due to completely blocked fallopian tubes, to finally conceive and deliver a healthy baby girl. The team was led by Head of Department, Obstetrics & Gynecology at GPHC, Dr Rafi Rozan.

According to the GPHC, the 40-year-old woman had suffered from secondary infertility for years due to the complete blockage of both fallopian tubes. However, with the intervention and expertise of Dr Rozan, a specialist in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, and the medical team, including Dr Radha Sookraj, Nirvanie Singh, and Dr Amanda Gray, the woman was able to conceive.

Patients with fallopian tube occlusion can pursue In-vitro Fertilisation (IVF), a costly process not currently available at public health facilities in Guyana. Additionally, reproductive surgeries, which can serve as a primary treatment, enhance IVF outcomes, or preserve fertility, may also be considered

In this case, Dr Rozan and his team, the GPHC said, performed

a bilateral tubal reconstructive tuboplasty surgery. This procedure addressed the patient and fallopian tube blockages, representing a crucial step in restoring her reproductive health.

Just a few months after the surgery, the woman’s pregnancy test returned positive and on May 20, she gave birth to her baby girl. The newborn baby was initially placed in the care of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) but was later transferred to the Neonatal step-down unit at GPHC. She is expected to be discharged

soon, the hospital said.

Last year Guyana was able to successfully facilitate 17 surgical missions, that played a pivotal role in clearing the backlog for specialised surgeries.

According to GPHC’s Head of Surgery, Dr David Samaroo the public hospital was able to successfully execute some 12, 495 surgeries in 2023.

A total of 876 elective surgeries were executed, 587 minor surgeries, 845 emergencies surgeries and 56 hernias. Procedures range from complex spine, plastic, vaginal, skin, neurological, ligament

reconstruction and joint replacement surgeries.

During his remarks at GPHC’s End of Year press conference, Dr Samaroo had explained that these figures represent a ten percent increase in surgeries, when compared to the corresponding period. He attributed the success to the many collaborations facilitated by government, the development of strong clinical teams, hiring of skilled specialists, modification and improved infrastructure and the adoption of more efficient processes and patient pathways.

Dr Leslie Ramsammy

The GPHC team with the new-born baby

Linden flooded due to heavy downpours, neglected drainage systems – Govt

…multi-agency response activated in affected areas

Overnight heavy downpours on Monday have left several sections in the mining town of Linden, region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) underwater. Based on reports received, residents woke up on Tuesday morning to find several inches of water in their homes.

In light of this development, the government activated a multi-agency response. The National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) has since engaged private contractors to clean and clear the drains to facilitate better water flow and reduce flooding.

In addition, Bosai Minerals Group (Guyana) is providing

Town Council and the Office of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), is working assiduously to clean and clear debris in critical areas, including al-

crucial support with equipment to assist in the drainage and cleanup operations. Further, to ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) will be establishing two shelters to provide temporary accommodation and essential supplies for displaced residents.

These shelters will be located at Egbert Benjamin Hall and another location which is yet to be named.

However, a release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, stated that the Public Works Ministry in collaboration with the Linden

leys in Wismar and the Retrieve area in Linden.

“Our government is working tirelessly to ensure that all necessary resources are mobilised to address this crisis. Explicitly, the recent flooding is directly linked to heavy rainfall over the last 48 hours, compounded by the municipality's neglect of the drainage system,” the release added.

This issue, the PM office added was previously observed by officials of the Central government during a visit, prompting a cleanup of drains in the central Mackenzie ar-

eas, including in front of the mayor’s office, in preparation for the 58th Independence Anniversary Flag Raising Ceremony last Saturday evening.

“From all indications, the areas affected by flooding are a direct result of the ineptitude of the current Mayor and Councillors who are focused on collecting revenues from all possible sources while failing to maintain the drain-

up shelters, and distributing relief supplies—is the easy part.

“What truly needs addressing is the failure of local and regional governance of Region Ten and the Mayor and Town Council of Linden. Their collective failure to perform their duties, including taking advantage of the long dry season to clear the drains and clean up the entire town of Linden, is unacceptable. They even

be better prepared for flooding.

“Both the RDC and the Municipality of Linden must now lead a massive cleanup operation before the next deluge. With the La Niña weather phenomenon predicting more rainfall in the coming months, immediate action is imperative.”

Meanwhile, the Public Works Ministry empathises with families who have suffered

age infrastructure essential for the safety of the residents now suffering from the floods,” the government added.

The call for a swift response from the central government—commendably coordinated and delivered within 24 hours in the form of clearing drains, setting

chose to boycott the town's cleanup before the independence flag raising ceremony,” the government posited.

Nevertheless, the government believes that given Linden’s highest per capita budget, surpassing any other administrative region in Guyana, it should

ed that before dawn on Tuesday, the Ministry in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture’s NDIA, the Municipal and Regional Administrations, along a technical team from the Bauxite Company, BOSAI commenced a rapid assessment exercise across all affected areas in Linden, while teams have been dispatched to the Rupununi and other affected Hinterland communities.

The central authorities have since engaged two contractors to clear blocked drains and take other action to allow for quick run-off of flood waters in areas in Wismar and Mackenzie.

Traditionally, the May-June season brings the natural phenomenon of excessive rainfall and often causes negative impacts across some communities and sectors. Overnight rainfall around Linden measured 170 millimeters in West Watooka, 160.6 millimeters at

losses and wishes to assure them and residents across the affected areas that technical teams have been dispatched to assess the situation in conjunction with local officials to quickly determine appropriate amelioratory and remedial interventions.

The ministry stat-

Wismar, and 123.4 millimeters at Coomacka.

As such, the residents in low-lying areas are urged to take necessary precautionary measures to avoid suffering, while we call on stakeholders to join efforts to render assistance where possible.

Some of the flooded areas in Linden (Guyana News Update photos)

NDIA clearing some of the blocked drains in the affected areas

Contractors are being engaged

Hess shareholders sign off on US$53B sale to Chevron

Hess shareholders on Tuesday approved the proposed US$53 billion merger with Chevron that paves the way for the No 2 U.S. oil company to gain a prize asset and a foothold in rival ExxonMobil’s massive Guyana discoveries.

The approval clears one hurdle, but the deal still requires regulatory approval and must face a lengthy arbitration battle with Exxon and CNOOC, Hess’ partners in Guyana.

Regulatory approval could come next month, said Frederic Boucher, risk arbitrage analyst at Susquehanna Financial Group, based on the time the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) took to approve Exxon’s acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources earlier this month.

But the most crucial step to approve the deal, he said, is a resolution of the dispute filed by Exxon and CNOOC asserting they have a right

of first refusal to any sale of Hess’s Guyana assets.

A majority of Hess’s 308 million shares outstanding voting in favor of the deal was required for approval. Results were preliminary and Hess did not immediately provide the vote tally.

The vote is a win for CEO John Hess, who put his reputation and the future of a company founded by his father on the line.

The result puts to rest claims by some shareholders who wanted additional compensation for the delay in closing the sale. Exxon’s arbitration could push the deal’s closing into 2025.

“We are very pleased that the majority of our stockholders recognize the compelling value of this strategic transaction and look forward to the successful completion of our merger with Chevron,” CEO Hess said.

Hess and Chevron shares gained on the results. Hess rose a frac-

tion to US$152.05 and Chevron climbed less than one per cent to US$159.04.

“Assuming Chevron wins the arbitration from Exxon or finds a settlement, the transaction is now going to happen,” said Mark Kelly, an analyst with financial firm MKP Advisors. The yes vote has huge implications for both companies. Acquiring the profitable oilfields in Guyana from Hess would provide Chevron with a means to mitigate the geopolitical risks tied to the TengizChevroil project in Kazakhstan, which mainly transports its oil through Russia to a port

Miner dies after pit collapses at Frenchman backdam

Aminer was killed on Friday at Frenchman Backdam, Upper Demerara River, Region Ten (Upper DemeraraUpper Berbice) after the pit in which he was working collapsed.

Dead is 27-year-old Leon Lyken of Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo. Guyana Times understands that at the time of the incident the now dead man was working in the pit along with others when a section caved in. He was trapped by the fallen debris, while the others escaped. This publication was also informed that another worker sustained a broken foot and other injuries.

More than a month ago, Stephen Mark

Dead: Leon Lyken

Samuels, a 47-yearold miner from Karwap Mission, Pomeroon River, Region Two, also died when the pit he was operating in collapsed. The incident occurred at Puruni Backdam, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni). Employed by a Brazilian national, Samuels was working in a pit when part of the eastern wall collapsed, burying him. His coworkers raised an alarm and managed to retrieve his

Lyken’s body after it was removed from beneath the debris

motionless body from the rubble.

The police, finding no marks of violence on the body, transported it to Puruni Health Centre, where he was pronounced dead. (G9)

vestment firm.

Hess shareholders will own nearly 15 per cent of the much-larger Chevron and get access to its dividend, which is four times greater than Hess’.

on the Black Sea.

In addition, this acquisition could counterbalance the cost overruns experienced at Chevron’s Australian liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, which have been affected by labor and operational issues.

Acquiring Hess’s Guyana holdings would fill out Chevron’s oil and gas reserves and provide a new avenue for production growth, beyond their existing operations in the US and Central Asia, said Allen Good, an analyst with Morningstar in-

The shareholder sign-off also strengthens the companies’ hand in any negotiations with Exxon. While Exxon has expressed no interest in bidding for Hess as a whole, it has not ruled out a potential bid for Hess’ assets in Guyana.

“It’s good Chevron cleared this hurdle given the rumblings over the uncertainty of the Guyana arbitration,” Good said. “However, I don’t think it will influence the outcome of Exxon’s claim”.

Chevron anticipates moving the FTC regulatory process towards its conclusion in the coming weeks, a spokesperson said.

“We are confident our position on the preemption right will be affirmed in arbitration,” the company said.

Exxon operates all production in Guyana with a 45 per cent stake in the giant Stabroek Block. CNOOC owns another 25 per cent of the joint-venture. Both claim a right of first refusal on any Hess sale of its 30% stake.

Proxy firm

Institutional Shareholder Services had recommended shareholders vote to abstain and urged Hess to offer an incentive to shareholders because of the deal delay.

John Hess spent the last month lobbying large shareholders to win support for the merger. He had personally visited or called more than 30 firms, according to people familiar with the matter. (Reuters)

Next generation being brought...

The Law Reform Commission in Guyana is a crucial entity responsible for the regular updating and alignment of the country’s laws with global legislative trends.

Its responsibilities encompass prioritising and establishing a programme for legal reforms, preventing legislative stagnation, and serving the executive and national interest.

The Law Reform Commission (Amendment) Act 2021 – No. 2 of 2021 received Presidential Assent on February 16, 2021, thereby allowing persons who hold a variety of qualifications to sit on the commission.

Further, in August 2022, the Constitution Reform Commission Bill, which seeks the establishment of a Constitution Reform Commission to review the country’s supreme laws, was passed.

Following the passage of the Bill, Government earmarked the sum of $150 million in the 2023 National Budget for constitutional reform activities.

This year, additional

monies have been allocated towards establishment of the CRC, including the rental of a building to house the Commission.

According to the Constitution Reform Commission Act, members of the Commission shall be appointed by the President and will include five members of the PPP/C, four members of the APNU+AFC, one member each from the ANUG, the Guyana Bar Association, the Labour Movement, the National Toshao’s Council, the private sector, representatives of women organisations, youth organisations, Christian, Hindu and Muslim organisations, as well as nominee representing farmers.

Additionally, provisions of the CRC Bill stipulate that the Commission will review the Constitution to provide for the current and future rights, duties, liabilities and obligations of the Guyanese people. It is mandated for that purpose to receive, consider and evaluate submissions for the alteration of

the Constitution, and report its recommendations to the standing committee for transmission to the National Assembly.

In conducting the review, the commission will consider the full protection of the fundamental rights of and freedom of Guyanese under law, the rights of indigenous people of Guyana, the rights of children, eliminating discrimination in all forms, improving ethnic relations while promoting ethnic security and equal opportunity.

This particular body will also, among other things, implement reforms relating to elections and the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), taking into consideration its composition, method of electing its chairman and members and its jurisdiction over national registration and electoral process.

Government’s model for constitutional reform is laid out in its 20202025 manifesto, and promotes the inclusion of all Guyanese in the review process. (G1)

“It feels really good to win” – Graham’s Hall Primary student …as school triumphs at 2024 standards academia quiz competition

Graham’s Hall Primary School emerged victorious at the finals of the standards in academia quiz competition 2024, held on Tuesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal.

The competition was successfully held through the collaborative efforts of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) and the Education Ministry, with participation from schools across the regions.

The winners, Graham’s Hall Primary School, were awarded the winner’s trophy and a cash voucher of $50,000, presented by GNBS Executive Director (ag), Al Fraser.

One of the champions from Graham’s Hall Primary School, Malachi Nelson, expressed his excitement after receiving his prize.

“It feels really good to win. It was fun participating in this competition. I really enjoyed my time here, and it feels energising to win after all the hard work we put in,” Nelson said.

Meanwhile Executive Director (ag), Al Fraser in remarks to students, who participated in the event, stated that he hopes that they consider joining the metrology sector when they have completed their academic pursuits.

“Let me say, all of you are the winners, I want to congratulate all of you, to the pupils I hope this competition encourages you to continue to work diligently and I hope that you are in-

spired to work in metrology when you are finished with your academic journey,” he told the students.

The first runner-up, St. Therese’s Primary School, received a trophy and a cash voucher of $25,000, handed over by GNBS Head of Corporate Communications, Lloyd David.

Additionally, Latonya Halley of St. Therese’s Primary School was recognised as the Best

No one will be left out of Guyana’s massive transformation – Sukhai

Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai, has called for unity of Guyana’s citizens amidst the massive transformation that is happening countrywide.

According to the minister, who was speaking at the regional flag-raising ceremony in Mahdia, Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni) over the weekend, through the combined efforts of the Guyanese, the entire country can benefit immensely. She emphasised that no one is exempt from this progress.

“The feeling of oneness in our landscape and building a strong nation requires the support and the participation of everyone, no one should be left out, it is our responsibility to advance this trend of togetherness and oneness,” she highlighted.

Drawing reference to how the country triumphantly dealt with the recent controversy between Venezuela, she pointed

out to the Mahdia residents that they themselves are not exempted from the development of Guyana.

“It is possible to achieve great things as a nation we stood united in the controversy with Venezuela as together we pledged, we committed to safeguarding our country’s sovereignty. I speak to Mahdia today and to say that none of us, none of you, I speak to Sub Region 2 as well, no one is divorced from participating in our nation’s development ourselves and for

our nation.”

Meanwhile, Sukhai stated that youths will also be a part of the developmental works.

“Also, our young people will be a part of the developmental works in this country as they are the future, however our focus as a government is not only building our young people or young Guyanese but we also focus on ensuring that women, the elderly, students are all part of our attention they too are featuring on the agenda of our government,” she emphasised.

Performer and awarded a Lenovo tablet, presented by GNBS Head of Marketing, Syeid Ibrahim.

Over the past two months, eighteen schools from Regions Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); Four (Demerara-Mahaica); Five (Mahaica-Berbice); Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and Georgetown participated in the competition.

The regional winners who advanced to the finals included La Grange Primary School from Region Three, Diamond Primary School from Region Four, Novar Primary School from Region Five, and St.

Therese’s Primary School from Region Six.

To prepare for the competition, students were given a copy of the standards in the academia booklet, which they had a chance to study and give themselves the awareness of the concepts and the knowledge of the GNBS and GNBS activities.

These resources serve as valuable study material ahead of the competition, ensuring that the young learners are well equipped and well informed.

This annual competition aims to promote standard and metrology at the primary level of the educa-

tion system academic excellence and collaboration among primary schools across Guyana, contributing to the overall development of the country’s educational standards.

This competition is the third leg of a vision of the GNBS, which started in 2017. The first competition began in 2018, followed by the second leg in 2022, and now the third leg in 2024. This initiative demonstrates the dedication to educating future business owners, public servants, and professionals about the importance of standards and measurement in their daily lives. (G2)

GDF rank injured during home invasion regains consciousness

…family hopeful for recovery

After being unconscious for several weeks, Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Private, Azim Khan, who was shot and injured during a home invasion earlier this month, has regained consciousness and is showing signs of improvement.

This was confirmed by one of the soldier’s relatives, who said he remains a patient in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)

Khan was shot in the chest during a robbery, which occurred on May 5 at Block 8, Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, when he and his family came under attack by intruders.

Police said two masked men forcibly entered the premises and attempted to relieve Khan of an undis-

closed sum of cash and a quantity of jewellery.

Khan reportedly put up a fight with the intruders during which he was shot in the vicinity of his heart. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital following the shooting incident. Khan suffered injuries to his heart, spleen, and lungs, leaving him unable to communicate or move. Medical professionals had estimated his chances of survival at 50-50.

Khans’ improvement

started just days after two men, Terry Thomas and Dexter McDonald called “Labba” were charged and remanded to prison for attempting to murder him. McDonald was arrested more than a year after a wanted bulletin had been issued for him. Before Khan’s shooting, he was wanted for a series of robberies, and rape. Although Khan remains hospitalised, his family is encouraged by his progress and hopeful that he will be able to return home soon. (G9)

Graham’s Hall Primary School champions and teacher posing with their trophy alongside GNBS Executive Director (ag), Al Fraser (Photo by GNBS)

Champions, runner-ups and teachers who participated in the 2024 competition

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai

Injured: Azim Khan Charged: Dexter McDonald

Around the World

OIL NEWS

Oil up on OPEC+ meeting, summer driving season and weaker US dollar

Oil prices gained more than US$1 a barrel on Tuesday on the expectation that the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies (OPEC+) will maintain crude supply curbs at its June 2 meeting, while the start of US summer driving season and a weaker dollar also boosted the commodity.

Brent crude futures for July delivery settled up US$1.12, or 1.4 per cent at US$84.22 a barrel. US crude ended at US$79.83 a barrel, gaining US$2.11, or 2.7 per cent from Friday’s close, having traded through Monday’s US mark Memorial Day holiday without a settlement.

For the online meeting of OPEC+ oil producers coming up on Sunday, traders and analysts are predicting 2.2 million barrels per day of voluntary production cuts to stay in place.

“We expect OPEC+ to extend the current cut for at least another three months at its upcoming meeting,” UBS analysts said in a note.

“This week’s upside follow-through is being facilitated by a significant weakening in the dollar and a growing consensus that OPEC+ will extend production cuts at the upcoming weekend meeting,” said Jim Ritterbusch of Ritterbusch and Associates.

The dollar slipped 0.1 per cent to a more-than-one-week low.

Oil extended a more-than-one-per-cent rise in trade on Monday that was muted due to the holiday, with hopes of a demand boost from the first tradable day since the start of the US summer driving and vacation season providing support.

Worries over US interest rates remaining elevated for a longer period contributed to a weekly loss for crude last week. Higher rates boost the cost of borrowing, which can dampen economic activity and demand for oil.

Investors will watch the US core personal consumption expenditures price index (PCE), which is a main inflation gauge for the Federal Reserve, due on Friday.

“Despite the indisputably brighter mood seen in the last two days, interest rate concerns will most plausibly act as a (brake) on further attempts to send oil prices meaningfully higher in the immediate future,” said Tamas Varga of broker PVM.

Air travel data also helped to buoy oil prices, with US seat numbers on domestic flights for May rising by five per cent month on month and almost six per cent year on year to slightly above 90 million, data from flight analytics company OAG showed, surpassing 2019 levels.

Continuing conflict in the Middle East, which on Monday included the death of an Egyptian security service member in an exchange of gunfire with Israeli forces, also helped boost oil prices, said Bob Yawger of Mizuho bank. (Reuters)

Israeli tanks hit evacuation zone west of Rafah

Israel’s military denied striking a tent camp west of Rafah on Tuesday after Gaza health authorities said Israeli tank shelling had killed at least 21 persons there, in an area Israel has designated a civilian evacuation zone.

Earlier, defying an appeal from the International Court of Justice, Israeli tanks advanced to the heart of Rafah for the first time after a night of heavy bombardment, while Spain, Ireland and Norway officially recognised a Palestinian state, a move that further deepened Israel’s international isolation.

The United States,

Israel’s closest ally, reiterated its opposition to a major Israeli ground offensive in Rafah, but said it did not believe such an operation was under way.

Two days after an Israeli airstrike on another camp stirred global condemnation, Gaza emergency services said four tank shells on Tuesday hit a cluster of tents in AlMawasi, a coastal strip Israel designated as an expanded humanitarian zone where it advised civilians in Rafah to go for safety.

At least 12 of the dead on Tuesday were women, according to medical officials in the Hamas militant-run Palestinian enclave.

Haiti transition council taps former PM Conille to again lead country

Haiti's transition council on Tuesday tapped former Prime Minister Garry Conille, who briefly led the country over a decade ago, to return to the role as the Caribbean nation works to restore stability and take back control from violent gangs.

The transition council voted 6-1 to install Conille as interim Prime Minister, a member told Reuters.

Conille's extensive resume in development, working largely with the United Nations, is considered key to shoring up international support as Haiti prepares to launch a UN-backed security mission led by Kenya, though its deployment has faced hurdles.

The transition council, which holds some presidential powers, and its head, Edgard Leblanc, acting as a de-facto President, are now tasked with holding elections before February 7, 2026, as laid out in Haiti's Constitution.

"Following discussions within the transition council after hearings with the candidates for Prime Minister, Dr Garry Conille was chosen by consensus to lead the Government during this transition period," Leblanc said on X.

Conille's naming underscores progress in Haiti's political process and follows Prime Minister Ariel Henry's resignation in March after he left Haiti to

But Israel’s military later said in a statement:

“Contrary to the reports from the last few hours, the IDF (Israel Defence Forces) did not strike in the Humanitarian Area in Al-Mawasi.”

seek support for the Kenyan security mission and was unable to re-enter the country.

President Jovenel Mo se, who named Henry, was assassinated in 2021. Haiti has not had a President since.

"My sincerest congratulations," business leader Alix Didier Fils-Aime, who had also put his hat in the ring for the role, said on X. "I'm still a patriot who believes in this country. Long live Haiti!"

Conille was Prime Minister for just seven months, resigning in February 2012 after losing the support of his Cabinet and clashing with then-President Michel Martelly.

Conille and Martelly butted heads over reconstruction contracts following a deadly 2010 earthquake and a parliamentary investigation into politicians holding dual citizenship, which is illegal in Haiti.

Conille most recently held the post of regional director at UN children's agency UNICEF.

He will now be tasked with fighting off rampant insecurity as gangs have expanded their reach. More than 360,000 persons are already internally displaced within Haiti, according to UN estimates, mostly from capital Port-au-Prince, due to the gang conflict.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Israel told around one million Palestinian civilians displaced by the almost eight-month-old war to evacuate to Al-Mawasi when it launched its incursion in Rafah in early May. Around that many have fled Rafah since then, the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees UNRWA reported on Tuesday.

International unease over Israel’s three-weekold Rafah offensive has turned to outrage after an attack on Sunday set off a blaze in a tent camp in a western district of the city, killing at least 45. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Trump sought to ‘hoodwink’

voters with porn star payment, Prosecutor tells jury

ANew York Prosecutor told jurors that the hush money payment at the heart of former President Donald Trump’s criminal trial was an attempt to “hoodwink the American voter” during the 2016 election, as lawyers made their closing arguments on Tuesday.

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass said the US$130,000 payment that ensured porn star Stormy Daniels would not discuss an alleged sexual encounter was part of a broad effort to bury stories that might have damaged his first White House bid.

“We’ll never know if this effort to hoodwink the American voter impacted the election, but that’s something we don’t need to prove,” Steinglass said.

Jurors could begin de-

liberating as soon as today in the first criminal trial of a US President.

Trump, 77, faces 34 felony counts of falsifying business documents to cover up the payment to Daniels. He has pleaded not guilty, denies ever having sex with Daniels, and appeared to be unimpressed with Steinglass’s closing argument.

“BORING!” Trump wrote on social media during a break.

Earlier in the day Trump’s lawyer told jurors they should not trust star witness Michael Cohen, who testified that as Trump’s fixer he paid Daniels out of his own pocket and worked out a plan with Trump to be reimbursed through payments disguised as legal fees.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

A tank manoeuvres near the Israel-Gaza border, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Israel, May 27, 2024 (Reuters/ Amir Cohen photo)

DAILY HOROSCOPES

Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. Shift into high gear and make what you do count. Acts of kindness will bring you into contact with someone who can help you advance.

Reconfigure your thoughts to fit your budget, time and skill level, and you will avoid taking on or spending too much. If you want to make progress, update your qualifications.

Hold tight and do your best. Use your power of persuasion and physical skills to get things done on time and within budget. Pay attention and be meticulous in everything you do.

Don’t spend money impulsively or sign up for subscriptions you can’t afford. Monitor your finances closely, and diligently budget for what you want and need.

A change in the dynamics of a relationship will push you to make adjustments. Reach out to someone you trust, and you’ll gain the tools you need to make a positive change.

Keep life simple. Don’t overreact or promise the impossible. Look at every aspect of a situation and make adjustments as you move forward. Don’t let your emotions derail your progress.

Show passion in all you do, and you’ll gain acceptance from people who can help further your interests. Networking is in your best interest, along with traveling and learning.

Refrain from making unnecessary changes at home. Get your facts straight and your plans in order before you begin something costly or time-consuming.

Look at your options and navigate your way forward with care. Refuse to let anyone pressure you or trick you into something you don’t need. Take time to relax; you’ll make better decisions.

Don’t get angry; get moving. Actions speak louder than words and will bring about positive change. Take the initiative to do something that makes a difference. Don’t let your emotions interfere.

Focus on what’s working for you and put what isn’t going smoothly on the shelf for now. Create opportunities instead of expecting them to come to you. Personal improvements will lead to compliments.

Look for the good in every situation and person you encounter. Doing your best to get along will help you gain the freedom to go about your business and do as you please.

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

T20 World Cup Group B preview…

Cricket heavyweights joined by trio of sides out to impress

The two most recent champions and the three spirited associates make up Group B of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. England, the defending champions of the Men’s T20 World Cup, and Australia, the winners of the 2021 edition, are in Group B, along with Namibia, Oman and Scotland. Only the top two teams will progress to the Super 8 phase of the event.

While all eyes will be on the big names from Australia and England, there’s enough potential in Namibia, Oman, and Scotland to make the group results interesting.

Australia

Despite not reaching the final four stage of their home T20 World Cup in 2022, Australia are among the favourites in this edition. The talented side have a history of doing well in ICC events, and the current unit features several players in rich form, with recent ICC success.

Squad

Mitchell Marsh (c), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa

Fixtures

Wednesday, 5 June 2024: vs Oman in Barbados, 08:30pm local time

Saturday, 8 June 2024: vs England in Barbados, 01:00pm local time

Tuesday, 11 June 2024: vs Namibia in Antigua, 08:30pm local time

Saturday, 15 June 2024: vs Scotland in St Lucia, 08:30pm local time.

Who to watch out for Travis Head has been Australia’s star performer in ICC tournaments of late, as shown through his stellar performances during the ICC World Test

Championship final and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup semi-final and final.

Having won two ICC titles for Australia since June 2023, Head would like to make it a hat-trick for the men’s side with his dynamic display on the field.

Adding to his repertoire is his explosive form in the IPL, where he has scored more than 500 runs at a strike rate just below 200.

England

Defending champions England would again look to bank on that attacking style of play that has served them so well in the limited-overs format.

The return of pace spearhead Jofra Archer to the line-up is a big plus in a squad that seems to have all the key bases covered.

Squad

Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Jofra Archer, Jonathan Bairstow, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, Tom Hartley, Will Jacks, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, Mark Wood.

Fixtures Tuesday, 4 June 2024: vs Scotland in Barbados, 10:30am local time Saturday, 8 June 2024: vs Australia in Barbados, 01:00pm local time Thursday, 13 June 2024: vs Oman in Antigua, 03:00pm local time

Saturday, 15 June 2024: vs Namibia in Antigua, 01:00pm local time.

Who to watch out for

Despite not featuring in the business end of England’s successful 2022 campaign, Mark Wood has left his mark on the tournament with his propensity to rattle opposing batters.

Raw pace serves a dual purpose in Wood’s armour: helping to extract that extra zip out of the wicket while clouding the batter’s shot-making ability by reducing the time available for shot selection.

Namibia

Namibia have qualified for the T20 World Cup on the back of a stellar run at the African Regional Qualifier stage. They played undefeated in that tournament, securing wins over six teams, which included co-qualifiers Uganda and Test-playing Zimbabwe.

Success over Test nations isn’t a new phenomenon for Namibia’s Eagles, who stunned Sri Lanka in the last edition of the T20 World Cup; and they’d like to repeat the feat in the upcoming event.

Squad Gerhard Erasmus (c), Zane Green, Michael Van Lingen, Dylan Leicher, Ruben Trumpelmann, Jack Brassell, Ben Shikongo, Tangeni Lungameni,

Niko Davin, JJ Smit, Jan Frylinck, JP Kotze, David Wiese, Bernard Scholtz, Malan Kruger, PD Blignaut.

Fixtures

Sunday, 2 June 2024: vs Oman in Barbados, 08:30pm local time

Thursday, 6 June 2024: vs Scotland in Barbados, 03:00pm local time

Tuesday, 11 June 2024: vs Australia in Antigua, 08:30pm local time

Saturday, 15 June 2024: vs England in Antigua, 01:00pm local time.

Who to watch out for Since making his international comeback with Namibia, David Wiese has been living the dream. The 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup will be his third consecutive tournament this decade, and the all-rounder will be rearing to go in all departments

a side they’ve defeated twice in the past, could set the tone for their tournament.

Squad

Aqib Ilyas (c), Zeeshan Maqsood, Kashyap Prajapati, Pratik Athavale, Ayaan Khan, Shoaib Khan, Mohammad Nadeem, Naseem Khushi, Mehran Khan, Bilal Khan, Rafiullah, Kaleemullah, Fayyaz Butt, Shakeel Ahmad, Khalid Kail. Reserves: Jatinder Singh, Samay Shrivastava, Sufyan Mehmood, Jay Odedra.

Fixtures

Sunday, 2 June 2024: vs Namibia in Barbados, 08:30pm local time

Wednesday, 5 June 2024: vs Australia in Barbados, 08:30pm local time

Sunday, 9 June 2024: vs Scotland in Antigua,

on the field.

His hammer-and-tongs approach with the willow and clever assortment of cutters and slower balls have served the Eagles well, and the burly all-rounder would look to light up Group B with his performances.

Oman

The sole Asian side in the group, Oman, carry a fair mix of tournament experience in their ranks. This would be their third appearance in the T20 World Cup, and the side would love to leave their mark with a good showing.

Their opening encounter on 2 June against Namibia,

01:00pm local time

Thursday, 13 June 2024: vs England in Antigua, 03:00pm local time.

Who to watch out for Skipper Aqib Ilyas, a solid top-order batter and a top-draw spinner, will be key to Oman’s hopes in the T20 World Cup. He might be the newly appointed leader, but the presence of former captain Zeeshan Maqsood in the squad means that the all-rounder would have plenty of support on the field.

Aqib’s captaincy tenure has seen his numbers improve, with the batter averaging 42.5 at a strike-rate of 158.38 from his seven

games.

Scotland

Richie Berrington’s Scotland have a number of players with a fair amount of global T20 cricket experience, and they will seek to bring that knowledge to best use in their group encounters in the West Indies.

The Scots have a proud cricketing history, which includes defeating neighbouring rivals England in ODI cricket in 2018. Their meeting on 4 June in Barbados will be the first-ever in T20I format, and Berrington’s side would be more than chuffed if they pull off a similar result to give their campaign a perfect start.

Squad

Richie Berrington (c), Matthew Cross, Brad Currie, Chris Greaves, Oli Hairs, Jack Jarvis, Michael Jones, Michael Leask, Brandon McMullen, George Munsey, Safyaan Sharif, Chris Sole, Charlie Tear, Mark Watt, Brad Wheal.

Fixtures

Tuesday, 4 June 2024: vs England in Barbados, 10:30am local time

Thursday, 6 June 2024: vs Namibia in Barbados, 03:00pm local time

Sunday, 9 June 2024: vs Oman in Antigua, 01:00pm local time

Saturday, 15 June 2024: vs Australia in St. Lucia, 08:30pm local time.

Who to watch out for Left-arm spinner Mark Watt has been Scotland’s goto bowler for some time now. The tweaker makes good use of the crease, varying his delivery point depending on the batter and match situation, and fluctuating his speeds to keep the opponent guessing.

His spinning darters have stood up well against famed opponents, as showed against Sri Lanka and West Indies in last year’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifiers in Zimbabwe. (ICC)

Australia won the T20 World Cup back in 2021

England are the defending champions, having won the tournament in 2022

Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” Linden tourney… Rain plays spoilsport before final showdown

Rain had the last say in the Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” Linden Championship, a persistent shower forcing the cancellation of the second semifinal, third-place playoff, and eventual final on Sunday evening at the Retrieve Tarmac.

Tournament officials have taken the decision to reschedule the remaining matches for Saturday, June 1st, following discussions with the officiating crew and Guinness Brand Executive Lee Baptiste.

The playing surface, having been battered for more than 90 minutes by a consistent downpour, was deemed unsafe for the players.

According to an official release from the coordinating crew, “Following discussions with the relevant parties, including the teams, it was deemed that the venue

was unfit to contest the remaining matches. The safety of the players is the most important element, along with providing a quality experience for the patrons.

“The integrity and overall quality of the tournament must be maintained, so the decision was taken to

The rescheduled matches will be staged at the same venue.

Before the unfortunate decision to suspend the matches, the Silver Bullets ha defeated the Spaniards 3-0 in the first semifinal, which was partially affected by the downpour.

Damion Williams opened the scoring in the fourth minute, while Colwyn Drakes tallied a ‘Guinness Goal’ (a goal scored in the final three minutes of normal time is counted as two) in the

reschedule the matches for Saturday, which will culminate the tournament.

“While we understand the frustration of the players and the spectators, safety for everyone involved in the championship, especially the players and the fans, is tantamount.”

Celtics sweep Pacers to reach NBA Eastern Conference Finals

Derrick White's tie-breaking 3-pointer with 45 seconds left has sent the Boston Celtics into the NBA Finals for the second time in three years, they having earned a 105-102 win over the Indiana Pacers in Monday's Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals.

The top-seeded Celtics, who were ousted in seven games by the Miami Heat in last year's Eastern Finals, completed a sweep of this best-of-seven series by rallying from a nine-point deficit with under nine minutes left.

Jaylen Brown led Boston's comeback by scoring 10 of his 29 points in the fourth quarter, and coming up with a key late block that preceded White's winning shot. The Celtics also received 26 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists from Jayson Tatum, as well as another strong performance from their backcourt duo of White and Jrue Holiday. Holiday totalled 17 points and nine rebounds, while White had 16 points on 7-of-14 shooting, along with a game-high five steals.

The sixth-seeded Pacers were unable to extend the series while playing a second straight game without All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who injured his hamstring in Thursday's

2. Andrew Nembhard led Indiana with 24 points and 10 assists, while Pascal Siakam posted 19 points and 10 rebounds.

The Celtics will face the winner of the Western Conference Finals between the Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves, and will host Game 1 on Thursday, June 6. The Mavericks lead that series 3-0, and can advance at home in Tuesday's Game 4.

A tightly contested game saw neither side lead by more than eight points, until the Pacers put forth a 5-0 run, capped by Nembhard's 3-point play with 8:57 left to play, to take a 94-85 advantage.

Indiana had led 98-90 with under six minutes to go, before the Celtics began catching fire. After Brown hit two free throws and Tatum knocked down a

3-pointer, Holiday drove the lane, and was fouled while getting a layup, to go down following a made basket by Nembhard.

Boston's veteran guard calmly hit the ensuing free throw to bring the Celtics within 100-98 with 3:54 left.

It remained a two-point game until Brown knocked down a floater with 2:40 left, to tie the score at 102102. Shortly thereafter, the All-Star forward rejected Nembhard in the lane as Boston's Al Horford grabbed the rebound with the contest headed towards the final minute of play. Brown then found an open White in the right corner, and the valued guard drained a 23-footer to send the Celtics ahead.

Indiana had one final chance to force overtime, but Nembhard's 3-point try missed the mark, and the Pacers failed to get another shot off. (Sportsmax)

23rd minute.

The second semifinal fixture will pit Hardball Management against Turf President.

The winner of the tournament will pocket $500,000 and the Championship Trophy. They will also earn an automatic berth to the national championship during August in Georgetown.

Meanwhile, the second-, third-, and fourthplace finishers would walk away with $400,000, $300,000, and $250,000 re-

Almost there…

Kensington Oval just about ready for T20 World Cup

– says NOC Chairman Noel Lynch

With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup now just only a few days away, Chairman of the National Organising Committee, Noel Lynch, has said the iconic Kensington Oval is just about ready for the showpiece, which is scheduled to begin on Saturday.

Lynch’s confirmation came during a media tour of the venue, which will host nine matches, including the June 29 final.

“Kensington Oval has never looked as good as it does right now,” Lynch has opined. “The field, in particular, is in its best condition ever, and those who have played on it are nodding in agreement.”

Though some finishing touches are still being applied, Lynch has praised the dedication and hard work of the curators and groundsmen as he declared the Oval ready to host cricket matches.

“We are not boasting, but we are ready. We’re 95 per cent to 99 per cent ready,” he declared.

Infrastructural improvements to the Oval

spectively, and the corresponding accolade.

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include upgrades to the bathroom facilities, the inclusion of a three-tier hospitality suite, upgrades to the media centre, and the erection of a temporary stand with a seating capacity of 2,500.

Aside from the World Cup, Lynch pointed out, officials are engaging the local community through the KOMI Good Neighbour Programme, which focuses on involving residents from nearby areas by providing them with job opportunities related to the Oval’s upkeep.

“This isn’t just about the World Cup, it’s about an ongoing sustainable programme,” Lynch has said.

“We have walked every avenue in Pickwick Gap, gone house to house with the member of parliament, and engaged with the community directly,” he added.

Finally, there will be an open house on Wednesday, wherein Barbadians and visitors are invited to get a firsthand look at the upgraded Oval ahead of the World Cup. Gates will be open from 1:00pm. (Sportsmax)

WANTED

Market clerk, Enforcement workers, Sanitation workers to work at the Mon Repos La Reconnaissance NDC. Interested persons can submit applications or visit the Office at Lusignan Community Centre ECD or Call 220-8110 for more information.

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The Kensington Oval in Barbados

Game

Boston Celtics celebrating the win

The four trophies that would be awarded to the top four finishers

Bartica boys, Waramuri girls start with a bang as defending champions

Defending champions of the respective ExxonMobil U14 Boys and Girls Schools’ Football tournaments: Bartica Secondary boys and Waramuri Primary Top girls, have each sent a strong message to the competition on Monday, when the 5th edition of the ExxonMobil Under-14 Schools’ Football tournaments kicked off.

Three Miles Secondary, West Demerara Secondary, Santa Rosa Secondary and Bartica Secondary boys, and Tucville Secondary and Santa Rosa Secondary girls lit up the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground on Carifesta Avenue as the first round of the Group stage was completed.

In the very first game of the day, boys’ defending champions Bartica Secondary entertained

Scenes from the first day of the 2024 ExxonMobil U14 action

the crowd with goals from Jaden Christian, Ray Spencer and Lenny Skeete in the respective 4th, 15th and 30th minutes to pull off an opening 3-0 victory over L’Aventure Secondary. With one goal each from Nashavn Pickette, Jaquan Smith, Brolin Griffith and Marvin Carter

in the respective 5th, 14th, 16th and 26th minutes, West Demerara Secondary toppled Bygeval Secondary 4-2. Rafael Aguilar (13th) and Jefferson Rodriguez (25th) netted for Bygeval.

Another team effort saw East Ruimveldt’s Jahem Kendall (6th), Jaden Abrams (15th) and

GCF National Cycling Championships get underway on June 16

The Guyana Cycling Federation’s (GCF’s) National Championships are scheduled to take place in June, and three separate dates are reserved for the events: June 16, 23, and 30. Time trials on the Heroes Highway circuit kick off the peloton's June 16th activity.

There are several divisions involved in those activities: Masters, Juniors, Women, and Juveniles will race a single lap (14.5 km/9 miles), while the Elite competitors would be facing a challenging double-lap (29km/18 miles).

On June 23, the Masters and Juniors Road Race will take place. Starting at the Soesdyke junction, riders will proceed along the SoesdykeLinden Highway to Silver Hill, before returning for the finish line. This will be a strenuous 100km (62 mile) ride.

On June 23, the starting line for the road race for women and juveniles will be the same, albeit with a somewhat abbreviated course. They will race 32 miles (51.5 km) in total, with a turnaround at the highway toll booth.

The renowned Elite Cycling Championships will take place on June 30th to wrap up these national cycling activities.

Cyclists will have to complete a 157km (98 miles) course in this demanding race. Starting at the KD&J Supermarket in Linden, the course winds through the town and out onto the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, before coming back for a conclusion. It is a five-lap circuit.

We Stand United rider Briton John won the national championship last year.

Stephen Whitter (29th) starring in a 3-1 victory over Annandale Secondary. Seaton Rogers (23rd) scored for Annandale.

The game between West Ruimveldt and Queen’s College ended with a similar result. The contest ended in West’s favour following a brace from Yannick Fox (11th, 13th) and one netted by Dominic Lesperance (8th). Javier Mendonca (12th) scored for Queen’s College.

A close encounter between Abram Zuil Secondary and Westminster Secondary ended with the latter prevailing 3-2 through a brace from Gregory Romascindo (11th, 20th) and a goal from Germine Garnett (32nd). Andron Robeiro (28th) and Mark Anthony (30th) scored one each for Abram Zuil.

Also in the winners’ circle was Santa Rosa Secondary boys, who enjoyed a 5-0 win over New Campbellville Secondary. Shane James led the charge with a double in the 12th and 16th minutes, while Shavid Marks (2nd), Rovaldo Abraham (7th) and Glennie Harris (27th) netted once each.

Jaden Griffith (1st) and Ronaldo Mohabir (12th) each found the back of the net for Bush Lot Secondary, while an own goal helped Bush Lot cruise to a 3-0 win over Carmel Secondary.

The encounter between South Ruimveldt and New Central High also ended in 3-0 victory for the former, as Jahim Hart (16th), Devonte Game (19th) and

Carlon Robinson (25th) scored one each for South.

St. John’s College got the better of Christ Church Secondary in a 2-0 encounter, compliments of goals from Chinedu Obi (6th) and Robino Abrams (29th).

Dolphin Secondary and Patentia Secondary fought tooth and nail, and in the end were separated by one goal in a close contest. Gowan Adams (18th) and Inshan Alli (34th) found the back of the net for Dolphin, while Jonathan Redmond (24th) scored Patentia’s consolation goal.

The last year boys’ runners-up, Waramuri Primary Top, edged Brickdam Secondary 1-0 on the back of a 3rd minute goal from Ricardo Lewis; while a similar low-scoring contest saw an own goal from School of the Nations in the 27th minute handing Marian Academy a win.

Winning by a similar margin were the Santa Rosa girls. This time, Veronica Chatta was the star on show, scoring goals in the 3rd, 4th, 10th, 15th, 20th and 25th minutes for a tally of 6; while Anelisa Robinson scored a brace in the 14th and 29th minutes to complete the 8-nil scoreline.

Goals off the boots of Arianna Stoby (12th) and Zalina Jones (28th), in addition to an own goal helped Three Miles Secondary to a 3-0 victory over East Ruimveldt. Norismar Williams (11th, 20th) and Keysi Austin (13th, 22nd) scored doubles to hand Bartica Secondary a 4-0 victory over Bush Lot, while Tucville Secondary downed New CampbeLlville by the same margin. Ceara Glasgow (10th, 11th) and Geimacy Gitten (7th, 30th)

Meanwhile, Cotton Field Secondary and Ann’s Grove Secondary played to a 1-1 draw, compliments of goals from their respective players: Elliot Hendricks (10th) and Juslyn Halley (30th).

Playing to nil-all draws were Chase’s Academic Foundation and Leonora Secondary, and Hope Secondary in an encounter against Charlestown Secondary.

The girls’ competition saw defending champions Waramuri Primary Top dominate their encounter with IAE, whom they defeated 8-0. Nickisha Williams (4th, 15th) and Brentia Marks (19th, 20th) had braces, while one each was scored by Dorwin Boyal (16th), Erika Harris (17th), Shelleyon France (25th) and Teanna Abrams (29th).

were the goal scorers for Tucville.

One goal each off the boots of Maxine Rodriques (18th) and Christine Paul (19th) helped Abram Zuil Secondary to a comfortable 2-0 win against New Central High. By a similar margin, Marian Academy managed to get the better of Charity Secondary. Ashley Walton (7th) and Breanna Nobrega (25th) were the goal-scorers for Marian.

A 25th minute goal from Domonique Rodrigues helped New Amsterdam Secondary needle President’s College, while Cotton Field and Westminster Secondary played to a nil-all draw. The ExxonMobil U14 tournaments are likely to continue at the same venue this Saturday, June 1st.

Briton John

“Ensuring a safe and secure space for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is a priority for the Caricom Security Cluster.” This is according to Attorney-General (AG) of Saint Lucia, Leslie Mondesir, who is chairing the 27th Meeting of the Council for National Security and Law Enforcement (CONSLE), which commenced last week in Miami, Florida.

Caricom Ministers with responsibility for national security, representatives from the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (Caricom-IMPACS), Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), Regional Security System (RSS) and the Caricom Secretariat are in attendance.

According to a Caricom release, discussions are expected to focus on security arrangements and preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, including legislative and operational updates, the Advance Passenger Information (API) or Passenger Name Record (PNR) legislation,

Attorney-General (AG) of Saint Lucia Leslie Mondesir

outcomes of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) Technical Working Group on Maritime Security and outcomes of the Anti-Corruption Conference.

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Tournament 2024, which will be co-hosted

by the West Indies and the United States of America from June 1 to 30, will form a significant portion of the meeting’s deliberations. Attorney General Mondesir underscored the importance of ensuring a healthy, safe, and friendly environment for the upcoming tournament’s participants and spectators.

“As I speak of the Tournament that is upon us, the iconic Men’s T20 World Cup Trophy is currently making its rounds through the six Caribbean host countries

and is currently in Guyana,” he stated. “The Security Cluster continues to make preparations and work towards ensuring a safe and secure space during that period, I urge you to pay keen attention to the arrangements in place from both the legislative and operational perspectives. Specific sectoral updates will be provided by the CARICOM Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS), the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and the Chair of the Health, Safety and Security Committee.”

Guyana is set to host semi-final one and five group games of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The country is excited to showcase its unique culture and warm hospitality as it prepares to welcome the world for the group matches scheduled from June 2nd to 8th, culminating with the second semi-final on June 27. Guyana will also host the second match of the entire tournament, the first for the West Indies team, on June 2.