India’s PM Narendra Modi arrives in Guyana for 3-day State Visit
Ruimveldt businessman busted with cocaine in false walls of suitcase
Calvin Brutus files $400M lawsuit against SOCU, senior police ranks
44 young men died on Guyana’s roadways this year – Min Benn Guyana’s successful Iwokrama
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi upon his arrival at Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri on Tuesday evening (Tariq Mohamed photos)
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Wednesday, November 20 –No retraction and Wednesday, November 20 – 03:45h-05:15h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Wednesday, November 20 - 6:45 hrs to 8:15 hrs and Wednesday, November 20 - 7:40 hrs to 9:10 hrs
FERRY SCHEDULE
India’s PM Narendra Modi arrives in Guyana for 3-day State visit
– welcomed at CJIA by President Ali – energy, military cooperation among other matters up for discussion today
ndian Prime Minister
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
Winds:
Narendra Singh Modi arrived in Guyana on Tuesday evening for a threeday State Visit, during which he is expected to discuss matters, including energy and military cooperation, with Guyana’s President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
Prime Minister Modi was greeted at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who was accompanied by his Cabinet Ministers, including Prime Minister Brigadier (retired) Mark Phillips, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, and Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd, among others. PM Modi has become the first Indian PM to visit Guyana in 56 years – with the last being Indira Gandhi in 1968.
Upon his arrival, he was given a red-carpet welcome followed by a military salute by members of the Guyana Defence Force. In addition, he received a 21-gun salute, and inspected the Guard of Honour before being whisked away to the capital city for a welcome reception at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Georgetown coincides with his travel to neighbouring Brazil, where he attended the G20 Summit which was held from November 18-19 in Rio. During his visit to Brazil Modi met global leaders that included U.S. President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Modi had also visited Nigeria, where he had bilateral talks with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and interacted with the Indian community.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Guyana marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between Guyana and India, and has prompted heightened security measures and logistical preparations. Modi’s packed itinerary includes meetings with President Dr Irfaan Ali and his Cabinet; attending a Caricom Summit, and addressing the Guyana National Assembly.
This visit by the Indian Leader comes on the heels of several high-level visits to India made by senior officials of the Guyana Government in recent years, including President Dr Irfaan Ali, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, and Prime Minister Mark Phillips, along with a host of Cabinet Ministers.
In January 2023, President Ali was conferred with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA) in Indore, Mahdya Pradesh. He was bestowed with the 17th PBSA award – the highest honour conferred on overseas Indians – by Indian President Droupadi Murmu during the valedictory session of the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention. During that visit, President Ali and PM Modi
held comprehensive discussions on a wide range of issues, including cooperation in energy, infrastructure development, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, technology and innovation, and defence cooperation.
Only last Sunday, a few days ago, the two Dornier HAL-228-201 aircraft which were purchased from India earlier this year were officially commissioned at Air Station London at Timehri, East Bank Demerara.
Back in March, the Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, had signed a Line of Credit (LOC) Agreement worth US$23.27 million with the ExportImport Bank of India (EXIM Bank) to procure the two aircraft.
Guyana/India trade ties
are also at an all-time high. Earlier this year, it was revealed that India had sourced as much as US$149 million in crude oil from Guyana between 2021 and 2022. This growth in hydrocarbon trade between the two countries was described as an alltime high by India’s Union Minister for Housing & Urban Affairs & Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri.
India is already expected to partner with Guyana in critical areas in the oil and gas sector, including refining crude oil, as the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Indian Government approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two nations in January 2024.
According to a statement from the Indian Bureau of Information, the Indian
Cabinet approved the signing of an MoU between the Indian Ministries of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Guyana’s Ministry of Natural Resources which will last for five years. This MoU would see India sourcing crude from Guyana, an arrangement that it had previously utilized such as in 2021, when HPCLMittal Energy Ltd (HMEL), a joint venture between Staterun Hindustan Petroleum Corp and Indian steel tycoon LN Mittal had bought Guyana’s crude. The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Modi approved the signing of the MoU between the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Government of India, and the Ministry of Natural Resources, Republic of Guyana, on cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector. Another area the MoU covers is cooperation with Guyana for crude oil refining. Additionally, it will create opportunities for Indian companies to explore and produce oil in Guyana and for collaboration on natural gas.
At the governmental level, the MoU allows for capacity building, strengthening bilateral trade, collaborating to develop oil and gas-related regulations, and cooperation on renewable and clean energy, including biofuels and solar energy.
It was also announced in January last year that India, where President Ali had led a delegation of Guyanese earlier that month, had made an initial proposal on the direct long-term purchase of crude. At the time, it had been announced that Guyana was examining the proposal at a technical level.
President Dr Irfaan Ali introduces Prime Minister Mark Phillips to the visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at CJIA
Editor: Tusika Martin
News Hotline: 231-8063Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761
Marketing: 231-8064Accounts: 225-6707
Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown
Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com
When will speeding trucks be tamed?
The tragic loss of Carlton Smartt’s life on Sheriff Street this morning underscores an urgent and longstanding issue on Guyana’s roadways: the reckless behaviour of speeding trucks and the devastating consequences of inadequate regulation. Despite the Government’s investment in modernizing infrastructure, the unchecked lawlessness of heavy-vehicle operators continues to claim innocent lives.
Tuesday’s disaster, a fatal collision involving two speeding sand trucks during peak morning hours, highlights the sheer disregard for public safety. The aftermath was not just the loss of a hardworking family man, but also destruction to property, motor vehicles, disruption to utilities, and grief to a mourning family. This chaos erupted in the heart of the city, illustrating a stark reality that the roadways are far from safe, particularly when being shared with multi-tonne vehicles driven with entitlement and recklessness.
This incident is not isolated. Countless road users can attest to the terror of encountering these massive trucks, speeding recklessly, ignoring traffic signals, and operating with overloaded cargoes. Whether blinding drivers at night or menacingly barreling down streets during the day, these vehicles have become a symbol of lawlessness rather than development.
Excusing these tragedies as a “by-product of development” is no longer acceptable. Guyana must do better, starting with stronger regulations and enforcement. Preliminary reports on today’s crash reveal violations that demand immediate action: speeding, improper lane usage, overloaded vehicles, and failure to yield to pedestrians. How many more lives must be lost before we prioritize meaningful change?
The solutions to this crisis are not unattainable. First, the Guyana Police Force must take proactive measures by deploying traffic officers along known truck routes. Systematic and consistent monitoring — not occasional spot checks — will deter reckless behaviour.
Additionally, stricter penalties for violations by heavy vehicles are essential. This includes fines for speeding, improper loading, and lane misuse, coupled with mandatory suspension of operating licences for repeat offenders. Investing in weigh stations along major routes could prevent overloaded trucks from even reaching populated areas.
Technology also offers viable solutions. Speed cameras, automated ticketing systems, and GPS tracking for trucks could provide real-time data to enforce compliance. The installation of rumble strips and additional speed-calming measures in high-risk zones could also reduce reckless driving.
Tuesday morning’s fatality was preventable. Smartt’s death is not just a statistic, it is the loss of a father, a husband, and a valued member of the community. His passing should not fade into the growing list of road traffic victims. Instead, it must fuel a collective demand for accountability and reform.
Government’s investments in road upgrades and safety measures are commendable, but insufficient without strict enforcement and cultural change. As National Road Safety Month is marked, let this tragedy be a rallying call.
Smartt’s death demands urgent action to address the lawlessness on Guyana’s roads. Reckless truck drivers are a persistent danger, and this chaos is not an inevitable consequence of development, but a failure to enforce laws and prioritize public safety.
Guyana cannot afford complacency. Systematic enforcement is key. Stricter penalties for violations and repeat offenders must also be enforced without exception.
Smartt’s death highlights the human cost of this negligence: a father, provider taken too soon. His loss should galvanize efforts to ensure no family endures such grief again. Road safety reforms must move beyond rhetoric to meaningful, lifesaving action.
While infrastructure upgrades like the Sheriff-Mandela Road are praiseworthy, they mean little if drivers ignore basic safety rules. The Guyana Police Force must prioritize systematic enforcement, not just sporadic checks.
As we observe National Road Safety Month, government and citizens alike must push for accountability and proactive measures.
Carlton Smartt’s life was cut short by negligence; let his memory serve as a catalyst for a future where such tragedies are rare, not routine.
Never before has the overall health of men been gloomier
– time for action
Today we observe International Men’s Day. While observed in many countries, it is not yet formally recognized by the international institutions.
In the US, June 16 is observed as Men’s Health Month. The time has come for global recognition and a globally recognized date for International Men’s Day. In 1992, a proposal was made, but it had weak support. In 1999, Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh of Trinidad and Tobago attempted to resuscitate the proposal, and since then, some countries have embraced it. Guyana is one of the countries that have embraced it. Between 2001 and 2014, Guyana observed this day.
With the emergence of President Irfaan Ali in 2020, greater importance has been placed on International Men’s Day. With the subsequent launching of the President’s Men on Mission (MoM), there has been a greater embrace of International Men’s Day, with an emphasis on men being more engaged as part of the solution, and not as the problem.
While in Guyana we do not have complete statistics, we know that life expectancy in women is at least four years longer than men. Women's life expectancy in Guyana is now more than 73 years, compared to just about 70 for men. Globally, life expectancy for women is past 81, compared to 76.2 for men. In fact, men have a higher mortality and higher premature deaths from 8 out of 10 leading causes of death, including heart disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes.
Almost 25% of men are less likely than women to seek medical care. This is a major problem for the wellbeing of men, given that mental health is a major burden of disease for men. Consider that global statistics reveal that more than 33% of men suffer from a level of depression during their lifetime, and 9% will suffer from depression or anxiety daily. Yet, less than 20% seek medical attention for mental health, and for those diagnosed with mental health issues, less than one-third take any kind of medication to help. While prostate cancer or poor
prostate health affects most men after 60 years old, few have sought Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) or PSA testing for their health. The presence of erectile dysfunction affects most men after 60, yet few seek care.
We cannot address men’s health without underlining the major problem of alcohol, tobacco and substance abuse. These are all part of a broader mental health crisis among men that we must address. As stated before, although mental illnesses are more prevalent in women than in men, according to the available data in Guyana, men suffering from mental illnesses are less likely to receive mental health treatment or diagnosis. One of the main reasons for this is the pressure men face to "man up" or "tough it out."
Other reasons that may impact a man’s mental health journey are culture, fatherhood, race, and socioeconomic status.
There are some obvious focal areas for the health sector as we attempt to improve the wellbeing of men and boys. We must move the dial on the following ar-
eas:
• Reduced mortality from prostate, testicular cancer
• Reduced mortality from men’s suicide
• Improved prostate, testicular and sexual health, including tackling erectile dysfunction (ED)
• Improved mental health for boys and men
• Reduced alcohol, tobacco and substance abuse among men
As we observe International Men’s Day 2024, we must embrace MoM’s goals for men to be part of the solution, rather than the problem. There is in Guyana a problem of too many missing fathers. We cannot address domestic and sexual abuse in our society without men taking responsibility. Every Guyanese, male or female, must support MoM to achieve its goal for men to become a big part of the solution, and not the problem.
Dr Leslie Ramsammy Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi accompanied by President Dr Irfaan Ali is greeted by officials of the Indian High Commission, Cabinet Ministers and Heads of the Joint Services at CJIA on Tuesday evening (Tariq Mohamed photo)
Guyana welcomes PM Modi
Dear Editor,
The nationality of a composite of six races from the land of many glasses of water, with the encore of “Boukaiya, Nnoo, Bem-Vindo, Huanying and Svaagat,” will collectively convey a Guyanese “welcome” in a singular voice echoing a “One Guyana,” as the 74-year-old Indian Prime Minister Shriman Ji Narendra Damodardas Modi sets foot for the second time on the soil of Guyana, the birthplace for some 40 per cent of Guyanese who have traceable links to Bharat Mata due to the arrival of their ancestors from India, their motherland.
After 56 years, an Indian Prime Minister is gracing this South American nation, the late Indira Gandhi being the last in 1968.
Other Indian officials to
visit Guyana include the late Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma. The then Vice President of India visited Guyana in 1988; and Shri Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, the then Vice President of India, came on a State Visit to Guyana in 2006. The famous and familiar reciprocal “Namaste,” said with clasped hands, will be included in the greetings.
Prime Minister Modi, leader of the largest democracy in the world, with a population of 1.45 billion people, comes from a country which has a legacy of having a “people-centric approach and mainstreaming the priorities of the Global South.”
The agricultural and diversified country, being the 7th largest nation in the world, with an area of 1.269 million square miles and speaking some 780 languag-
es, India has 28 states and 8 union territories with a GDP growth rate of 7.6% annually.
The 2023 World Bank report also states India’s Gross Domestic Product as 3.55 trillion USD, with her GDP per capita being US$2,484.85.
For 89 years, India was a British colony, and was known as the British Raj. In 1947, India single-handedly defeated the British with words and wits and won her independence with Mahatma Gandhi’s path of truth and non-violence (Satya Graha) approach. India became divided with the birth of Pakistan as a neighbour.
A decade ago, India was the 11th largest economy in the world. This nation, which was ravaged by
invaders, was raped for her wealth and repudiated as a “Coolie” mentality. Slowly, but surely, like its national flower, the Kamalgatta, it rose from Dharti Ma and the Ganges to blossom as the 5th largest economy in the world, beating its former master, the British.
While the US remains the only nation to put man on the moon, on the 23rd of August 2023, India became the 4th nation to land on the moon. With India’s “Chandrayaan – 3, she became the first country to successfully land a spacecraft near the moon's south pole, demonstrating a safe and soft landing on the lunar surface, a Rover roving on the moon and conducting scientific experiments.
Apart from India’s fascinating foods, fantastic
A community of practice in Special Education Needs
Dear Editor, I wish to share my perspective on the development of a community of practice (CoP) within the area of Special Education Needs in Guyana, and its impact on the education of learners with disabilities.
With the recently graduated cohort of 51 teachers from the CPCE including four teachers with disabilities graduating with their Associate Degree in Special Education Needs, Guyana is on its way to creating a community of experts who would work to transform the landscape of SEN.
A community of practice
is formed when people with common interests and shared passion collaborate on knowledge-sharing and expertise support. With this growing CoP, a structured network of teachers, advocates, bureaucrats and other experts can serve to further enhance the delivery of SEN through the sharing of resources, best practices, and continuous professional development.
In addition, this CoP can benefit from the four recently graduated teachers with disabilities bringing a unique perspective on working with learners with disabilities through their lived experiences and knowledge
Azruddin Mohamed is truly a walking angel
Dear Editor,
A Berbice family has said goodbye to years of squatting after receiving a new home from the Mohameds.
The troubles of a poor family squatting for over 10 years have finally come to an end. Mr Mohamed today answered the call of 30-year-old Arifa Khan of Bath Settlement with a brand-new home. This is one of over 1000 homes built so far across Guyana.
Arifa said that, with the kind assistance of a family member, she was able to swap the land for one in Bath Settlement that is closer to the business area and the school. This is where Azruddin Mohamed built her home.
on evidence-based teaching approaches and the use of assistive technologies. This number is also set to increase with the seven student teachers who are blind and visually impaired being in the current cohort.
This CoP also fits into the Ministry of Education’s current vision to transform the SEN sector by applying an inclusive and multi-pronged approach to SEN, by invest-
ing in training, technology, resources and infrastructure to enhance the education of learners with disabilities.
Our learners with disabilities have never been in a better position to become independent and productive citizens of Guyana, and this can be fostered by the growing community of practice.
Yours sincerely, Rosemarie Ramitt
fields, and famous festivals, she is fanaticized for cricket, songs, music and films. The Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world, and is visited by millions of tourists who travel also to the snow-laden mountainous Himalayas in the North and the watery Kerala in the South.
A country landscaped with beauty, brains and business, India houses a rich culture of traditions, religions, festivities and celebrations. India glorifies a way of life catering to an ambience of spirituality, feeding off a spectrum of Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains, Christians, Zoroastrians, Jews, Bahá?ís, eremites, teachers, holy men, charlatans, and a host of other significant inclusivity.
From a historical background of 77 years of different, diversified and determined leaders, Prime Minister Modi has survived to lead the nation with three consecutive election victories since coming to power in 2014. He is on the rise in a country boasting 167 billionaires in the world, being the third highest.
The IMF is forecasting a prediction that India is expected to take over Japan's position to clinch the title of the world's fourth largest economy in Fiscal Year 2025 with a GDP of US$4340 billion.
The quiet, humble and approachable but fi-
ery Prime Minister, who is charming and charismatic, is ever friendly, hard-working and resolute. He aims to reshape the image of India in the eyes of the world with pride from a proud past, dignity with a determined destiny, and resilience to rule not from the rear. While PM Modi is adept, he is wary of human limitations, and remains practical. His job correlates with the cooperation of his courageous commissioners who act as his confidants, consiglieres and commanders.
As campaigners for Modi, they help to chronicle and communicate many of the conversations which are cumbersome and convoluted with concerns, controversies and criticisms.
Prime Minister Modi is careful, and he surrounds himself with a chosen few who are his eyes, nose and ears, following him like a shadow. He places confidence in those he trusts, and has faith in his closest and oldest allies as he delegates them with responsibility. His 3-day visit to Guyana will be fruitful, as it can remove barriers of distance and development between two countries with common ideologies, people and aspirations.
The Guyanese people and President Ali welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi with open arms.
Yours respectfully, Jai Lall
She was overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. Among others he has helped are: Naresh Ramcharitar of Black Bush Polder, with a new prosthetic leg so he can walk freely again; Clavelle Anderson, a mother of three, of Garnett Street, received a food caravan so she can provide snacks to school children. Onemonth-old Zamari Jones, who is the first child of her parents, was born at the Linden Hospital Complex with a broken arm and his umbilical cord wrapped around his neck. Mr Mohamed is paying for the child to undergo medical treatment. And there have been many others.
He truly is a humanitarian and a walking angel on earth
She was elated when Team Mohamed made good on a promise to assist her with a brand-new home. Now the family can concentrate on taking care of each other without worrying about a roof over their heads.
Yours sincerely, Amanda Sawh
Make a telescope Page Foundation
Get crafty and build your own telescope to look for birds, treetops, and even stars in the night sky.
If you want a better view of birds, treetops, or even the night sky, you and your family can build your own simple telescope. Use this make-it-yourself device to explore the world, then check out these tips to keep track of what you see.
You Will Need
Two empty paper towel tubes
Scissors
Masking tape
Paint, markers, or crayons to decorate your telescope 2 convex lenses. If your parents have old reading glasses they aren't using, ask them to help you remove the lenses from the frame. Make sure the glasses are reading glasses and not glasses for helping to see things far away. If you don't have old reading glasses to use, you can ask your parents to order convex lenses online.
WHAT'S GOING ON?
Your telescope is a "refracting telescope," because it uses lenses to help gather more light than your eye could possibly do on its own. The scope uses two lenses to bend light, which makes an object appear closer than it really is. The size of the image produced by the telescope depends on the curvature of the lenses. Lenses with different curvatures will change the magnification of the telescope.
(ADAPTED FROM THE NAT GEO KIDS BOOK MAKE THIS! BY ELLA SCHWARTZ)
By Tiffany Gomez
Floated and floated
Out of this word
Calling and calling Without having internet
Looking for details
Looking at the sky
Time passes days pass
Growing and growing
Is an astronaut just a kid dreaming?
Jumping, walking without touching the floor
Being an astronaut for just telling scientists what is up in the sky
Seen the sky
Seen the stars
Seen the moon
More and more days pass
For just getting old
Exploring and exploring
People in the news see what we do Mom looking up the sky remembers when I was a kid
Waiting waiting for when I get home
WORD SEARCH:
Exxon surveying local market to determine capacity for supplying fabrication services
…prequalification of bidders to be done
ExxonMobil Guyana is scouring the local market in an effort to determine what capacity exists in Guyana to supply fabrication and other related services, as the oil giant continues to expand its fleet of Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek block.
In a notice, ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) has revealed that it is seeking detailed, technical information from local companies via a market condition survey. The survey will be gauging the existing in-country capacity for fabrication, machining and repair works to support oil and gas operations locally.
“EMGL is testing the local market to determine capacity, current capabilities and qualifications of the local supplier market to competitively perform work related to fabrication, machining and repair work of varying complexities. This work may be conducted through services agreement(s) with EMGL, or through Other Users as defined above (for example, prime contractors) within the Georgetown area,” Exxon said.
“This Local Market
Condition Survey aims to gather detailed technical information from suppliers to fulfil EMGL and their prime contractor’s near and long-term fabrication, machining and repair services, supporting the oil and gas operations in and around Georgetown, Guyana. The survey process allows us to seek your input and develop a list of qualified bidders before structured bid rules take effect.”
Some of the services covered in the market condition survey include tertiary steel fabrication such as handrail and structural steel, secondary steel fabrication such as pipe supports and control valve repairs and primary steel fabrication such as compressor refurbishment and carbon steel pipes.
According to Exxon, it will be using the responses to the survey, which are due by December 20, to prequalify bidders for upcoming projects. In addition to the usual high standards of work expected from bidders, Exxon noted that they will also be expected to include a preliminary local content strategy.
This means that those who are prequalified will be required to show how they
will deliver local content expectations and may even be required to submit those plans to the Government, in which case copies will also be required to be submitted to the oil major.
It was only recently that a steel strike ceremony was held for ExxonMobil’s Jaguar FPSO vessel, which will service the 6th oil development offshore Guyana in the Stabroek block, known as the Whiptail development.
The three local companies who were contracted to provide fabrication services for the vessel are Guyana Oil and Gas Support Services (GOGSSI), Industrial Fabrications Inc (InFab), and ZECO Group of Services.
GOGSSI is a key player in a joint venture with Trinidad Offshore Fabricators Unlimited (TOFCO). The company was established in 2019 and specialises in providing fabrication services for the oil and gas sector, including onshore and offshore oil and gas fabrication, structural and piping modules development and decks, platforms, and jackets.
Meanwhile, InFab is a
steel fabrication company that has been in operation since 2002. InFab was engaged by SBM Offshore Guyana to provide support services, including lighting fixtures, handrails, and cage ladders. It has delivered steel fabrication services to the Prosperity and One Guyana FPSO vessel.
Zeco Group of Services was founded a year be-
fore InFab, starting as a small welding and fabrication shop and since evolving into a large-scale fabricator in Guyana. The company is based at Section ‘A’ Plantation, Triumph, Better Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD). Zeco provides services that include general construction, fabrication, machine shop operations and oilfield supplies and services. To date, 290 tonnes of green steel have been fabricated by local companies for two FPSOs- 50 tonnes for Prosperity FPSO and 240 tonnes for the ONE GUYANA FPSO. This number is expected to increase for Jaguar FPSO, which will see an additional 316 tonnes of steel being fabricated by the local companies. (G3)
Issuance of 2025 old age pension books delayed – to include new security features
The Human Services and Social Security Ministry of Tuesday stated that in light of the investigation into the distribution of unauthorised/fake Old Age Pension books, the regular early distribution has been delayed.
The Ministry wishes to assure pensioners that the 2025 books are currently being printed with new security features to prevent tampering and falsification.
The 2025 Old Age Pension Books will be available for distribution from December 2024.
“The Ministry is working assiduously to tie in the distribution of these books with the encashment of the December 2025 vouchers in many areas. A detailed distribution schedule of the dates and times for distribution will be posted in all me-
dia,” it stated in a media release.
In addition, the Ministry stated that over 3000 Old Age Pension books for 2024 with new security features have also been printed to cater for pensioners who have not yet received their books and will be available from November 25 onwards.
There has been an increase in the number of pensioners over the last three years to over 70,000. We also encourage people to use the Banking system, which does not require any books.
Pension is deposited in the first five days of every month into bank accounts.
“The Ministry sincerely regrets any inconvenience to pensioners for the delays but it is critical to improve the integrity and accountability of the Pension delivery system in the best interest of the pensioners.”
Meanwhile, the Ministry awaits the findings of the investigation launched by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) into the fake pension books.
ExxonMobil’s offices in Kingston, Georgetown
Wanted murder suspect nabbed during police confrontation in Reg 9
Apolice operation in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) on Monday has led to the capturing of Cortland Jones who was wanted for murder along with his accomplice, Rickford King. They were arrested following a confrontation along the Lethem/Kurupukari trail near Pirara Village in the Central Rupununi.
According to police reports, acting on a tip that Jones was heading to
Ruimveldt businessman busted with cocaine in false walls of suitcase
A44-year-old businessman was on Monday busted with 3.8 kilograms of cocaine at the Eno Backtrack Service in Springlands, Corentyne, East Berbice.
Based on reports received, ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) conducted an operation at the Eno Backtrack Service and discovered a quantity of whitish powdery substance, suspected to be cocaine, concealed within false walls of a black suitcase.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Lennox Gowen, called “Nunkie”, of Avocado Street in Ruimveldt, Georgetown. He was escorted with the suspected narcotic to CANU Headquarters, where the substance tested positive for cocaine, and the weight was determined at 3.8 kilogrammes (8.38lbs). Investigations are ongoing.
Lethem, police officers intercepted the suspects, who were riding a motorcycle. Jones, and King, both hail from Aranaputa Valley, North Rupununi.
Despite police signaling the two men to stop, they attempted to flee but lost control of their motorcycle thus causing them to fall to the ground. Upon regaining their footing, the men reportedly advanced toward the officers armed with choppers.
During the confrontation, an inspector sustained an injury to his right arm. In response, officers discharged
two rounds in the air. They subsequently subdued the two men and took them into police custody.
The suspects were transported to the Lethem Regional Hospital, where they were treated for their injuries. Medical personnel have confirmed that both men are in stable condition.
Jones, who is wanted for murder and other offenses, had been evading police for an extended period. Investigations are ongoing, and charges are expected to be filed soon against both men.
Sophia man on trial for child rape awaits verdict
Haisai Jones, a Sophia, Greater Georgetown resident who is facing three counts of rape charges will know his fate on Thursday as Justice Sherdel IsaacsMarcus will present his summation that will guide the jury.
Jones is accused of sexually assaulting a child under the age of 16. The case has been closely followed since the police issued a wanted bulletin for him in June 2024. Jones was apprehended in October at Kairuni Backdam, along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, following months of evading law enforcement.
The trial has been marked by emotional testimony and intense legal arguments. The prosecution has sought to establish a pattern of predatory behaviour, presenting evidence and witness accounts that they claim prove Jones’s guilt beyond a
Charged: Haisai Jones
reasonable doubt.
Meanwhile, the defence was focused on undermining the credibility of the allegations, questioning the reliability of the witnesses and the strength of the evidence.
Justice Isaacs-Marcus’ summation will be pivotal, as it will guide the jury in their deliberations by outlining the key evidence and addressing the legal principles they must consider. Once the summation concludes, the jury will deliberate to decide Jones’ fate.
A conviction on any of the charges could result in severe penalties, including life imprisonment.
Settling…
…oil share
Ever since Raphael Trotman signed that PSA with ExxonMobil – along with Hess and China’s CNOOC – back in 2016, AFTER oil was struck in 2015 May, a lot of folks, including this Eyewitness, started kvetching about the piddling share of the revenues we were gonna be getting. And why not?? Right off the bat, the measly US$18 million bonus stuck in our craw. Around the same time, your Eyewitness remembers Brazil had hauled in the largest bonus ever of US$701 million (R$2.24 billion) for a block in their deep-sea Campos Basin - signed by a joint venture of Petrobras and the same ExxonMobil!!
And to boot, the US$18M was hidden away in some secret account at the BoA, with the Finance Minister denying there was any bonus!! Then, of course, there was the measly 2% royalty when the going rate was above 6%!! The 50% profits sound reasonable, but the catch is Exxon and buddies are allowed to deduct 75% of expenses upfront before profits, that’s 50% of 25%!! And with no ring fencing to restrict expenses per well - to increase the actual dollar amount in that 12.5% when everything is expensed out – this will be deferred till the end of never!!
So why hasn’t this been straightened out till now?? Well, for the simple reason that Trotman’s contract has a clause (Article 26) that spells out what gotta be done if you have a dispute – say, as in the quantum of revenues coughed up to us!! Rather than paraphrasing, since the clause is very clear, your Eyewitness gonna publish it verbatim: “The Parties shall make reasonable efforts to resolve amicably all Disputes by negotiation. A notice of the existence of a Dispute shall be given…in accordance with Article 34. If no agreement is reached within sixty (60) days after the date on which a Party notifies the other that a Dispute exists, any Party shall have the right to have such Dispute determined by arbitration as provided for in this Article 26.
“The Parties hereby consent to submit any Dispute to the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) for arbitration before three (3) arbitrators pursuant to the Convention on the Settlement of Investment Disputes between States and Nationals of Other States”!!
The ICSID is affiliated to the World Bank, and there’s no guarantee that it’ll agree with a dispute over terms of a contract that was made by an official of our government who was authorized to do so!! And not being a minor or a moron could enter into a contract!!
It’s not as if Exxon held a gun to Trotman’s head or (gasp!!!) bribed him or anything like that, did they??
…Hypocrisy
While Russia’s Putin was a no-show, the US’ Biden helped formulate the G-20 leaders’ statement following their just-concluded meeting in Brazil. They expressed “deep concern about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip,” and called urgently for more aid and protection for civilians, along with a comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon.
Can you believe this hypocrisy?? Here it is, every bomb dropped in Gaza and Lebanon by Israel - leading to what the rest of the world calls the genocide of Palestinians – and G20 calls a “catastrophic humanitarian situation” - has been supplied by the US with Biden as Israel’s chief cheerleader and he wasn’t called out??!! How can we take seriously what these guys say on any other topic??
Like the latest climate change resolutions made at COP29. Have these developed countries no shame as they look at countries across the globe – including their own – being buffeted by floods, hurricanes, droughts etc that are taking hundreds of thousands of lives??
What’s it gonna take for them to accept SOME responsibility??
…welcoming Modi
From all indications, it looks like Modi mania is sweeping Guyana. Evident.
Businessman Lennox Gowen
The cocaine that was found within the false walls of the suitcase
Cortland Jones, moments after being arrested by police
Guyana’s successful Iwokrama conservation model highlighted at COP29
– as success story is showcased in film to delegates in effort to raise awareness
Guyana’s successful implementation of its forest conservation model at Iwokrama was recently highlighted at the United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP29), which is being held in Baku, Azerbaijan.
During a COP29 side event on Tuesday, Guyana’s conservation efforts in collaboration with Indigenous communities were highlighted during a ceremony co-hosted by Namibia, Seychelles, and the Commonwealth Secretariat.
A short film was broadcasted during the event, titled ‘Take only what you need; the success story of the Iwokrama Forest’.
According to Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, Iwokrama is a groundbreaking success story that deserves to be told
on the international stage.
The Secretary-General further noted that if the world is to have a viable future, it is necessary to acknowledge and empower indigenous communities, who have proven their ability at sustainable livelihood.
“The Commonwealth Secretariat premiered this film at COP29 so delegates could hear the voices of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples and see the ground-breaking Iwokrama Forest model's success,” Scotland explained.
“The incredible progress of the last 200 years has come at an unsustainable cost. For a viable future, we need to acknowledge that Indigenous Peoples have managed their societies more sustainably. Justice, empowerment and solidarity with Indigenous Peoples
will unlock a genuinely prosperous future for us all.”
Vice Chairperson of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Sonia Latchman, spoke proudly of the Iwokrama film that was being broadcast to the COP. According to her, it is evident that Guyana lays a model for how to achieve a solution to the climate crisis.
“The video we saw says it all - in Guyana, we have the solution to the climate crisis, and we have a very good model for other countries to follow as it relates to diversity in Guyana, from rainforests to savannahs, and wetlands.”
“Indigenous Peoples are very important. Our voices must be heard, our rights respected, and we must be invited to the table. Guyana should be an example be-
cause our model is working - not just for all Indigenous Peoples but for all citizens back home,” she said.
Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat is being represented at COP29 by Guyana
Forestry Commission (GFC) Chairperson Vanessa Benn, who was also featured in the short film. According to Benn, the Government of Guyana is intent on continuing its partnership with Indigenous people when it comes to Iwokrama.
“We co-manage practically 1 million acres of this tropical forest, in partnership with indigenous communities who’ve been using this forest for decades.
Participants at the COP29 side event where the film was screened
Int’l Men’s Day observance MoM, MoH host nationwide prostate, health screening initiative
In observance of International Men’s Day, Men on Mission (MoM) and the Ministry of Health facilitated a nationwide prostate and health screening initiative.
The initiative saw scores of men across Guyana receiving the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test and other basic health tests like blood pressure and random blood sugar tests.
Members from the Guyana Defense Force and the Men on Mission received their tests in a drive conducted at Base Camp Ayanganna on Tuesday. Chief of Defense Staff Brigadier Omar Khan noted the initiative as a necessary step towards safeguarding men’s health and the prosperity of Guyana.
The brigadier stated that “it is important for you to know your health condition and status. (Knowing this) can lead us to control our lives, and our health and prepare us to become more productive as men.”
In Guyana, prostate cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths and one of the prevailing causes of death in men, stemming from late detection.
Given the gravity of this terminal disease and the rising number of cases globally, men must make use of the government’s numerous initiatives aimed at diagnosing and treating this disease. Currently, the government is offering free surgery for the first stage of prostate cancer and tests are avail-
able at multiple regional hospitals.
Men over the age of 45 as well as smokers and obese men are encouraged to get regular checkups as they are most at risk of developing cancer.
Further, cancer is a hereditary disease meaning that men with family members that have or had prostate cancer are also at higher risk. Males experiencing symptoms of trouble urinating, blood in urine and relentless pain in the back, hips, or pelvis should get tested for prostate cancer.
Those not experiencing these symptoms are also advised to get tested as some patients with prostate cancer can be asymptomatic.
Member of the Men’s Health Unit in the Ministry
PSC engages members on budget 2025 proposals
The Private Sector Commission (PSC) is currently conducting a thorough analysis and generating proposals to help shape the 2025 National Budget of Guyana. This announcement was made by PSC Chairman Komal Singh during a recent interview with the Guyana Times.
According to Singh, the PSC has initiated consultations with its members to ensure their recommendations are both evidence-based and reflective of the needs of the private sector and the broader society.
“We have a special committee that is formed to review that, right now we try to get feedback from the entire membership to see exactly what are some of the stuff that they would like to see in the budget. I mean, you can agree that right now, there are so many stuff that have already [been] at the initiative in our space from the government side, so we don’t want to jump on
and just come up with stuff very nearly. So that’s why we reach out to our members, so for them to give us feedback with proper evidence-based information.”
He revealed that just within a week, he expects results to be ready.
“Since it’s currently ongoing, we’re hoping to maybe have that fine-tuned in another week or so, alright, so we can revisit the detail,” Singh added.
When asked whether the PSC’s recommendations have been well-received by the government in the past, Singh expressed optimism, stating, “Based on the past, we have seen a lot of recommendations that we have made, they did consider it, as we have seen a lot of them have been implemented in the budget that was done in the past. We don’t have any reason to believe otherwise this year.”
In addition to Singh’s remarks, Guyana Times also spoke with Timothy Tucker,
a prominent figure in the private sector, who shared his expectations for Budget 2025.
“I’m hoping the 2025 budget becomes a budget of change, a budget that is filled with things that will be able to make the average Guyanese and the business community feel a sense of, you know, feel the impact of the oil and gas industry in a positive way, feel, you know, that there is, um, real, um, national development going on.”
He emphasized that the 2025 budget should reflect the progress of the last five years while addressing the current needs of citizens and businesses.
“While the other budgets have done exemplary well, we look forward to 2025 being one that, really marks what the last five years has meant, for the country,”
Budget 2024 projects total expenditure of $1.145 trillion (US$5.5 billion)
of Health Dr Sawan Jagnarain explained that once testing is complete and the cancer diagnosis is confirmed, the necessary follow-up plans are readily available.
MoM’s Coordinator Lieutenant Colonel Bhageshwar Murli highlighted the pressing need for men to get regular checkups stating, “We believe that once men have their health
in check and they are aware of all the challenges that the body goes through and how they can make sure they are healthy…then they can very will be positive role models.”
Stanleytown WBD to get $3B 4-lane bridge, roads
Government, through the Public Works Ministry, on Monday announced plans for a permanent four-lane bridge at Stanleytown, West Bank Demerara (WBD), following the recent installation of a temporary bridge.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement, subject minister Bishop Juan Edghill revealed that the current bridge is not strong enough to withstand the pressures of heavy-laden vehicles traversing the route.
As a result, GUYCO Construction, based in Region Three, would undertake the approximately $3 billion project.
“I spoke to the contractor and he has promised to give me the bridge in six weeks,” Minster Edghill stated while detailing the scope of the project.
The project would also include rehabilitation of five kilometres of road and construction of 3.5 kilometres of drainage systems. As works are set to begin soon, the minister has urged residents and local authorities to cooperate.
“The NDCs, we are asking that you assist this project by working with the schools and the local businesses and… communities to inform them of what is taking place, because once construction commences, some entrances might be interrupted, and every entrance that is interrupted will be restored,” he assured.
The Stanleytown bridge
The project would require adjustments from key utility providers such as Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) in the relocation of pipelines, leading to temporary water disruptions.
Also, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) would reroute electrical lines, causing short-term outages, while the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) would work to ensure drainage systems remain functional during construction.
Minister Edghill emphasised that while there will be temporary inconveniences, the long-term benefits of the upgraded infrastructure outweigh the challenges.
Further, he noted that the ministry’s engineering team would distribute unpriced bills of quantities to all Neighbourhood Democratic Councils within 48 hours to ensure effective oversight, collaboration, and enhanced transparency.
Additionally, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, assured the contractor that the ministry’s engineers are readily available to provide guidance and support as needed, to ensure the successful completion of the bridge.
Works are expected to commence one week after the mobilisation agreement is signed.
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, getting tested
MoM’s Coordinator Lieutenant Colonel Bhageshwar Murli receiving a blood pressure test
Electrical contractor killed in accident involving speeding sand trucks
Asmash-up on Tuesday morning at the intersection of Sheriff and Dennis Streets, Georgetown has claimed the life of a pedestrian and several others nursing bodily injuries. The incident, which occurred at approximately 6:50h, involved multiple vehicles, including two motor lorries and six cars, resulting in extensive property damage.
The dead man has been identified as 42-year-old Carlton Smartt, an electrical contractor at Garnett Street, Newtown Kitty, Georgetown.
Based on reports received stated that a motor lorry bearing registration number GAH 5183 driven by a resident of Belfield Village, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was driving at a fast rate along Dennis Street and as he approached the intersection at Sheriff Street, he failed to heed a stop sign thus coming into the path of another motor lorry GAH 8008, which was proceeding along Sheriff Street, also at a high rate of speed.
As a result of the collision, both drivers lost control of their vehicles. One of them ended up in a building along Sherriff Street while the other struck down Smartt who was at the time jogging in the area.
As a result of the impact, he fell onto the roadway and his body became trapped under the rear left wheel of the lorry. He was later pronounced dead at the scene. In addition, the motor lorries came into contact with several other vehicles.
The police were alerted to the scene at 7:00h, and a team of officers responded promptly. They contacted the involved drivers and owners, took measurements, and collected statements. A notice of intended prosecution was served to the respective driv-
ers. In addition, an ambulance arrived, and Smartt's body was examined and transported to the Memorial Gardens Mortuary. The drivers of the two lorries sustained injuries and were taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where they were treated.
One of them was discharged while the other remained hospitalised. Breathalyser tests conducted by both of them found no traces of alcohol in their systems.
All involved vehicles were inspected by a Licensing and Certifying Officer, and defect sheets were issued for the respective drivers. CCTV footage from nearby cameras is being reviewed, and further investigations are ongoing.
In the wake of the tragic incident, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill issued a statement expressing profound sorrow and extending condolences to the family of the deceased. The Minister also wished a swift recovery for the injured parties. He stressed that the accident highlights the critical need for stricter compliance with road safety regulations.
He outlined key violations that contributed to the crash, including excessive speeding, failure to comply with traffic signs, overloaded vehicles, improper lane usage, and failure to yield to pedestrians. He called on all road users, especially heavy vehicle operators, to exercise greater caution and adhere to traffic laws.
The accident occurred during National Road Safety Month, reinforcing the importance of safe driving practices. The Minister’s statement echoed calls for better traffic enforcement and public awareness. He urged drivers to respect speed limits, obey traffic signals, and prioritise the safety of pedestrians and cyclists.
In addition, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) in a statement noted that it has grown increasingly concerned about the growing number of road fatalities as a result of reckless usage of the country’s roadways, and is urging the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to implement stronger enforcement of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act.
Furthermore, the
Chamber is calling on the Government of Guyana to revise the system of penalties to implement stricter consequences for breach of traffic laws.
The country continues to be plagued with daily reports of road fatalities, and thus far in the year, there have been 117 deaths as a result of these road accidents.
“This loss of life cannot be allowed to continue unabated while Guyana loses its valued citizens. It is therefore crucial that the Guyana Police Force implements a robust educa-
tion and awareness, and monitoring campaign to ensure that road users operate within the ambit of the law. The State, too, must not turn a blind eye to this issue which has become an epidemic—timely and measured action is needed with great urgency particularly as it relates to legislating stricter penalties against errant road users,” GCCI stated.
Beyond the implementation and enforcement of traffic laws, the GCCI is calling on members of the public to utilise the roadways safely and responsibly. “Speeding and
disregard for traffic laws must not be tolerated, and failure to admonish these behaviours when we witness them may be regarded as complicity in lawlessness,” the body stated.
Dead: Carlton Smartt
A scene from the accident on Sheriff Street (Photos: Royston Drakes)
LIAT 2020 adds 796 weekly seats to boost Guyana’s tourism sector
In a move intended to strengthen regional connectivity and further diversify Guyana's booming tourism sector, LIAT (Leeward Islands Air Transport) has introduced additional flights, providing 796 new seats weekly.
The expanded services aim to accommodate the increasing demand for travel to and from Guyana, which has seen a significant uptick in international interest due to the country’s growing economy and unique eco-tourism offerings.
During the official launch of operations on Tuesday, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill praised the initiative, emphasizing its potential to increase visitor numbers while supporting regional integration.
“With the strong vision of President Ali and what is happening in our promotion of sport tourism, the Global Super League will be here shortly. Our eco-tourism product is expanding, and our contribution to reducing the food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025 is being taken seriously and is moving”, he said.
“With LIAT 2020 be-
ing here, the Guyanese travelling public only asks of you one thing: we want predictability. Guyanese businesses and tourists want to know that when we show up, we get our flights like everywhere else in the world,” Edghill said.
LIAT's additional flights connect Guyana to key Caribbean destinations, facilitating smoother travel for business and leisure passengers. This improved connectivity is expected to enhance accessibility to Guyana’s rich natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and burgeoning oil and gas sector, all of which are drawing global attention.
LIAT can play a vital role in positioning Guyana as a leading destination in the region. On this point, he explained that LIAT sees the start of its Guyana service as a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion strategy.
and
Minister Gaston Browne of
believes that, with the added capacity,
“As you build out your tourism product, you have observed that already you attract new hotel properties, and it does make sense to diversify the economy as you build out your tourism sector when the demand for your product will increase and we’re right here to help you tourists, visitors, nationals into Guyana to ensure you have consistent
the decades, the airline expanded its operations, becoming a vital link between
and reliable connectivity,” Browne stated.
LIAT was founded in 1956 by Frank Delisle in Montserrat with a single Piper Apache aircraft. Over
the Eastern Caribbean islands.
By the 1970s, LIAT joined forces with regional airlines like BWIA and Air Jamaica, further solid-
ifying its position as the Caribbean's primary inter-island carrier.
Despite financial challenges and restructuring over the years, LIAT has remained committed to its mission of connecting the Caribbean. Its fleet primarily comprises ATR aircraft, well-suited for short-haul routes, allowing the airline to operate efficiently between islands.
With the addition of new routes and increased seating capacity, LIAT has focused on not just maintaining, but expanding, its role in fostering economic growth, tourism, and cultural exchange in the region. The partnership with Guyana exemplifies LIAT’s ongoing efforts to adapt and evolve, ensuring its relevance in an ever-changing aviation industry.
Prime
Antigua
Barbuda
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda
Ramsammy’s Ruminations
PM MODI’S VISIT TO GUYANA HIGHLIGHTS GUYANA’S GROWING PROMINENCE ON THE GLOBAL STAGE
Ruminations welcomes the Prime Minister of India to Guyana. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in the midst of a historic visit to Guyana. Indeed, Guyana is part of a three-country head-of-state visit by the Indian Prime Minister. He visited Nigeria on his first stop, is now in Guyana, and is also visiting Brazil for the G-20 Meeting. The visit to Guyana is a State Visit. During this State Visit, CARICOM heads of state are also convening in Guyana for a meeting on crime and security.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Guyana underlines the growing importance of Guyana on the world stage. President Irfaan Ali; Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who is also the General Secretary of the governing party; and their PPP government have masterly steered Guyana to become one of the most important developing countries in the world.
Even as a small country with less than one million people, Guyana has become a leader as we tackle multiple global existential problems. Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy and our contribution to the global effort to manage the mitigation imperative of global warming gases have garnered international accolades. Guyana is a leader in the global struggle for climate and environmental security. In this regard, Guyana is also now taking leadership with the launching, in 2025, of the global biodiversity alliance intended to help in the preservation of the global biodiversity stock, including forest and marine biodiversity. But Guyana is also a leader in food and nutrition security and energy security.
The visit to Guyana of Prime Minister Modi is not coincidental. India and its leaders are paying close attention to this country. While Guyana’s population is almost 40% people of Indian origin, India’s attention and desire for expanded friendship and cooperation have more to do with Guyana’s global importance. Our country might be small, but with astute leadership of President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, Guyana has propelled itself to be a player among the “big boys”. The days when some global heads-of-state might not have known where our country is located or who is our head-ofstate are long gone. Guyana is now on everyone’s horizon.
The visit comes at a time when India, still a developing country, is also navigating its way around the world with its notion of being a world power, a superpower. India was among the biggest destinations for foreign aid before reforms started in 1991. It is now the world’s thirdlargest economy (in purchasing power parity terms). Its share of trade in the gross domestic product (GDP) rose from 8.5 per cent in 1965 to 49.4 per cent in 2022. The Indian diaspora has become a globally powerful force. One member of that powerful diaspora group, Rishi Sunak, became the British Prime Minister. Another one, in America, almost became the President of America. The Second Lady of America will now be a member of the Indian diaspora. The new President of America is likely to name several members of the Indian diaspora in powerful positions in America.
India’s emergence as a rising global power has caught the attention of the world. While, for most of the first two decades of the 21st century, most attention had been on China’s expanded influence, the United States’ struggle to sustain its world role, and wars in Europe and the Middle East; today, in addition to these sustained interests, the world has been forced to pay attention to India also.
But whereas most super-power nations or those with super-power ambitions seek domination, India’s ambition, in the words of its astute Foreign Affairs Minister, is “vishwa mitra”. Translated loosely, this means “universal friend”, or “a friend of everybody”. Prime Minister Modi and his cabinet have been actively promoting Global India as the “world’s friend”.
Guyana and CARICOM can benefit from India’s growing strength in digital technology and services, and its growing internal security capacity. As Prime Minister Modi visits Guyana and engages CARICOM heads, energy and security are paramount in their negotiation of a closer relationship between India and CARICOM. The heads of CARICOM and Guyana are not unaware that India has become a global powerhouse in the digital and financial sectors.
Before now, Guyana had been a beneficiary of affordable medicines from India, but CARICOM was more bound to the expensive medicines from Europe and North America. However, with Guyana and CARICOM’s push for world-class healthcare, India is of critical importance. With India’s reputation as the world’s pharmacy, our leaders are not unaware that achieving world-class health in far more difficult, unless our countries can access affordable medicines, vaccines, medical supplies and equipment. Ranking third globally in drug and pharmaceutical production by volume, India exports to approximately 200 countries and territories. The top five destinations for these exports are the USA, Belgium, South Africa, the UK, and Brazil. We must not also forget that 60% of the global vaccine utilisation comes with production in India. Why should CARICOM not follow Guyana’s lead in accessing more affordable medicines and medical supplies from India?
In 2023, India’s global export of medicines rose to a whopping US$27B, and with local supplies, it amounted to about US$100B in business. But there is similar whopping growth in biotechnology. In 2014, the biotechnology sector, including medical biotechnology, amounted to only about US$10B. Today, India’s biotechnology sector has grown to US$150B.
It is foolish for anyone to think that Guyana and CARICOM should not strengthen their friendship with India. Yet, we should also know that Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Guyana has self-interest implications. India’s growth places a great need for a reliable supply of energy. The three-state visits are all important oil states now. PM Modi has his eyes firmly set on Guyana’s oil. It is an opportunity for Guyana to extract more support from India. CARICOM must follow Guyana’s lead. It is an opportunity that Guyana has grabbed with open hands because of visionary leadership from President Irfaan Ali.
44 young men died on Guyana’s roadways this year – Min Benn
Home Affairs
Minister Robeson
Benn during a road safety over the weekend related that some 44 young men would have lost their lives due to vehicular accidents along Guyana’s roadway so far in 2024.
Benn speaking to participants at the annual Road Safety Public Education Awareness Motorcade and Walk stated that based on statistics issued by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) over 40 young men lost their lives on the roadway this year.
“The statistics speak for themselves. We have forty-four (44) young men who have died on our roads this year so far who have not worn helmets others who persons have run into them.”
In fact, Minister Benn explained that overall studies show that the younger population accounts for the majority of fatal accidents in the country. He noted that these persons are often between the ages of 18 to 35.
“The other disturbing statistic is that we have the greater proportion of persons dying or the younger persons between 18 to 35 who make up the larger proportion of those persons who are dying on the roads. We have to think and speak to each other about doing the right thing and doing the right thing is something some of us particularly the younger ones, some who have just come out of school and perhaps have not learned enough or experienced enough.”
Notably, Minister Benn explained that road accidents not only result in the loss of lives but have a severe impact on the economy. In fact, the minister revealed that last year road accidents cost over $700 million.
“Every road death instantly impacts our national income by more than $8 million but we want to remember that the people who die should not be and should not be considered as mere statistics.”
Moreover, to reduce carnage on the nation's roadways, Minister Benn highlighted that the Home Affairs Ministry in collaboration with stakeholders such as the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has developed
edented $400 million in traffic fines this year, with nearly 60,000 tickets issued as part of an intensified campaign to curb road infractions. Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh had stated that nearly 60,000 tickets were issued with over
47,000 related to speeding, accounting for around $280 million of the total revenue garnered from fines. Fines for infractions like drunk driving and unsafe vehicle maintenance also contributed significantly to the total.
Bartica miner remanded on armed robbery charge, several counts of burglary
several initiatives as part of efforts to promote road safety.
“The Do The Right Thing campaign intends to fan out across all the regions in the country it intends to raise the Do The Right Thing flag in all communities, and major towns in our country. We intend to have flash mobs, media coverage, and skits. We intend to give up caps and buttons in the schools and on the streets. We intend to give out the minibus drivers and the taxi drivers and the motorcyclists and yes we intend to give out 1000 helmets to motorcyclists again with the intention and hope that they use them.”
Only last week, the GPF recorded an unprec -
Coby Joshua Clay, also known as "Coby Layne," a 22-year-old miner from Bartica Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) was remanded to prison on Monday by Magistrate Teriq Mohammed for a series of burglaries and armed robberies.
Clay who appeared at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court pleaded not guilty to robbing Dorman Tobin. He was also separately charged with another armed robbery committed on Rona Tobin, to which he again pleaded not guilty.
Additionally, Clay faced multiple charges of breakand-enter-and-larceny, to which he pleaded not guilty. He was accused of breaking into the premises of Shabika Syfox and Vimeleita Dupatta, as well as committing acts of simple larceny involving Recardo Gonsalves and Robert David. Despite his pleads of innocence, the court remanded Clay to prison on all charges. His next court appearance for these matters is scheduled for December 13.
Dr Leslie Ramsammy
Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn during the Road Safety Walk
Charged: Coby Joshua Clay
Colombian cargo airline launches operations in Guyana
Aerosucre S.A., a leading Colombian cargo airline, on Tuesday announced that it would be launching its scheduled cargo operations in Guyana, and would be offering vital cargo services directly between Colombia, Brazil and Mexico.
The new service will begin in the first quarter of 2025, providing businesses in Guyana with enhanced access to key markets across Latin America.
Flights would be operated between the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and El Dorado International Airport (Bogotá) utilizing Boeing 737 freighters.
Aerosucre S.A. has said it would facilitate the movement of perishables, industrial goods and e-commerce shipments, and would be offering freight consolidation and reliable cargo solutions tailored to the needs of local and regional businesses.
The addition of Guyana to Aerosucre's growing network strengthens air cargo connectivity within Latin America, thereby improving delivery times and opening new trade opportunities for exporters and importers across the region.
“We are thrilled to facilitate Aerosucre's entry into the Guyanese market, marking a significant mile-
stone for Air Cargo Pack and the regional logistics landscape," said Jhon Agudelo, CEO of Air Cargo Pack S.A.
“This operation will bridge key trade routes between Guyana, Mexico, Brazil and Colombia, offering businesses in the region new opportunities for efficient cargo transport. Our commitment is to provide seamless, secure, and reliable service, supporting local and international commerce."
Aerosucre’s operations in Guyana would be supported by Air Cargo Pack (Guyana) Limited, the local representative.
GPHC launches “Operation Brain Tumour” with cutting-edge equipment
The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) on Thursday announced the launch of “Operation Brain Tumour”, an ambitious initiative aimed at tackling the national backlog of patients diagnosed with brain tumours who are currently part of the neurosurgery clinic at GPHC.
This groundbreaking project is made possible through the acquisition of the CUSA Clarity by Integra, the first of its kind in Guyana and the Caribbean.
The state-of-the-art CUSA Clarity surgical system is renowned for its pre-
cision and efficiency in removing brain tumours, significantly improving outcomes for patients undergoing these complex procedures. The introduction of this advanced technology underscores GPHC’s commitment to enhancing the quality of specialised medical care in Guyana.
“Operation Brain Tumour” will be led by GPHC’s Chief Neurosurgeon, Dr Amarnauth Dukhi, and his dedicated neurosurgery team. The initiative aims to complete all pending brain tumour surgeries before the end of 2024, providing relief to patients and their fami-
lies who have been waiting for life-changing interventions.
Dr Dukhi expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating "The launch of Operation Brain Tumour is a transformative step for neurosurgery in Guyana, especially in the public system.
With the CUSA Clarity system, we now have the tools to deliver safer, more precise, and effective surgeries. Our goal is to provide these patients with the care they deserve and to pave the way for advanced neurosurgical procedures in the region."
Starting next Friday, November 22, 2024, sur-
geries will be conducted every Friday until the end of the year and daily from December 2-9 2024. This schedule ensures a systematic approach to addressing the backlog, prioritising patients who have been awaiting critical care.
GPHC invites the public and stakeholders to support this monumental effort as the institution continues to advance healthcare delivery in Guyana. For further information about Operation Brain Tumour or to inquire about patient eligibility, please contact the Neurosurgery Clinic at GPHC.
Dr Dukhi and team
Two pieces of equipment that were acquired for the surgeries
Calvin Brutus files $400M lawsuit against SOCU, senior police ranks
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Calvin Brutus has filed civil proceedings against several senior members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Special Organised Crime Unit, alleging misconduct and malfeasance in public office. The lawsuit, filed on November 19, seeks damages in excess of $400 million.
On Tuesday evening, a release from six of his attorneys emphasised that in a functioning democracy, such conduct – misconduct in public office - cannot go unchecked. Brutus’ legal team has also called for a full investigation into the alleged improprieties.
“This civil claim is enough to facilitate an investigation and those found to have acted improper placed before the courts,” the release states.
Brutus’ attorneys in the
release stated that the officer is pursuing his civil proceedings while reserving the option to initiate criminal proceedings in the future, should the circumstances demand. He warns that the officers involved may face additional legal risks, stating, “If and when he decides to activate his lawful options, we should hope that no further hurdles are put in his path, for they stand the risk of facing criminal and civil proceedings for overreach in public office.”
The press release also outlines three measures Brutus believes are necessary to ensure fairness and transparency in the case. The demands include the launch of an independent criminal investigation and the establishment of a Presidential Commission of Inquiry, composed of impartial experts.
Brutus’ team has also
underscored the importance of protecting their client and ensuring a fair process.
“Subject interference and bias must not be allowed to jeopardise the
pursuit of justice,” the statement reads.
The document further alleges that Brutus has already been subjected to actions designed to disrupt his case and discredit him. It states, “Brutus has already disclosed instances of bias and moves calculated to discredit him,” and calls for “remedial action to guard against this in the future.”
The release from the lawyers described Brutus’ willingness to proceed as a reflection of his commitment to truth and accountability, concluding, “The constitutional rights of every citizen remain at the heart of his litigation.”
This legal action follows a series of events that has placed Brutus at the centre of a major financial crime investigation. In October, Brutus, along with his pregnant wife, driver, and a businessman, faced multiple charges, including money laundering, obtaining money by false pretense, misconduct in public office, and larceny by a public official. The charges stemmed from an investigation by SOCU into alleged financial improprieties involving hundreds of millions of dollars belonging to the GPF.
Prior to these charges, in July, Brutus had requested leave to facilitate an investigation into allegations of financial impropriety leveled against him.
On Monday Brutus
was slapped with 201 new charges that pertain to liability of officer, with the acting Chief Magistrate imposing bail in the sum of over $10 million for these new charges.
Brutus, who was already out on $6.2 million bail for previous charges, was placed on $10,050,000 million bail during Monday’s sitting and ordered to return to court on January 17, 2025 to answer more new charges.
The embattled senior police officer will also be returning to court on December 18, 2024, for the previous charges.
Only recently, Brutus and his wife were ordered by the High Court to pay $750,000 in court cost to several respondents after discontinuing yet another High Court action, which they filed on the August 19, 2024 against the Head of SOCU, the Commissioner of Police and Attorney General Anil Nandlall, who has made it clear he will go after the ACP for payment of these costs.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Calvin Brutus, and his attorneys leaving court on Monday
MoE launches textbooks to improve Science, Social Studies performances at NGSA
Education Minister Priya Manickchand, on Tuesday, announced that the Education Ministry will be rolling out a new resource for teachers and students at the grades four (4), five (5) and Six (6) levels.
According to the Minister this new resource which is being called “The concise notes for NGSA” will make
the learning process for social studies and science significantly easier and also improve performances in these subjects at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) exams.
She noted that the new textbook summarises educational content in a way that is easier and more convenient for learners to understand.
Guyana’s successful Iwokrama...
They’re involved in the monitoring, the management, the implementation of projects and generally all our activities. And in terms of decision-making, they’re part of that process as well. So, they’re true partners.”
According to Benn, indigenous people’s knowledge is considered parallel compared to modern scientific knowledge. She noted that with each successive generation, this knowledge continues to inspire more and more indigenous youths to dedicate their time to managing the forests.
“We’re seeing wonderfully how children who started off learning about the flora and fauna, the biodiversity of this environment in which they live and how they’re able to move up that ladder and become Toshaos, chiefs in their villages, helping them to support their livelihoods and continually manage these beau-
tiful forests, which we’re blessed with,” Benn added.
Iwokrama Rainforest was created in 1996 under the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development Act of 1996. It was set up as a protected area to show how forests can be used for social and economic benefits, such as food and medicines, while at the same time being sustainably managed and protected.
In addition to its rich biodiversity and ecosystem, Guyana’s total forest covers some 18.4 million hectares, stores more than 19.5 gigatonnes of carbon and removes some 154 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually.
With more than 80 per cent of the country being covered by forest, Guyana can sequester approximately 19.5 gigatons of carbon. This strat-
egy thus plays a crucial role in the global fight against climate change.
As a result, the Government of Guyana, through the Expanded Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, managed to sign a deal with Hess Corporation for up to US$750 million for 30 per cent of the carbon credits Guyana’s forest offers.
Since the signing of that deal in December 2022, Guyana has managed to support Amerindian communities in the development of sustainable projects that would serve as new sources of revenue.
The deal with HESS came on the heels of Guyana being the first country to receive a certification of more than 33 million carbon credits by the Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART) on December 1, 2022.
“We brought out this beautiful new resource that I want to introduce to you. There are the concise notes for NGSA social studies and then there are concise notes for NGSA science and what this does is put all that heavy, heavy notes that your children usually get exercise book upon exercise book into a concise form.”
In this regard, Minister Manickchand expressed her confidence in the new learning resource, however, she explained that positive results will only be seen if these textbooks are utilised properly.
“And I tell you, if you use these and you use them effectively, your children will be ready for the social studies and science exams for NGSA so if they know this and they answer questions in and around these notes and they understand these concepts, they're bang on ready for those exams.”
Moreover, the Minister highlighted that the Ministry is currently in the process of printing the new textbooks, a process which she revealed may take a while. However, in the interim parents and teachers can access a digital
copy of the textbook via the Ministry’s website.
“Now we are printing these, but printing processes take long because we go out to the public and that takes a while and then people take a while to print. These are also available on our website.”
Earlier this year during the announcement of this year’s NGSA examination results, Director of Operations, Examination Services at the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), Dr Nicole Manning revealed that Social Studies saw an increase in pass rates.
She added that Social Studies saw a whopping 62.8
per cent of candidates receiving over 50 per cent. For students receiving full scores for Social Students saw an increase from 17 per cent to 52 per cent. There has also been a reduction in candidates scoring zero.
However, Dr Manning noted that the performance in science dipped slightly.
“For the sciences, we saw a slight reduction in terms of the percentage of candidates scoring 50 per cent and above and we saw a reduction in candidates receiving full scores and zero. Even though that happened, I want you to note, that the average was still steady.
FROM PAGE 9
Iwokrama Research Station
Commonwealth Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland
Education Minister Priya Manickchand
Concise notes for NGSA Social Studies version
Around the World Putin approves changes to Russia's nuclear doctrine
Vladimir Putin has approved changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine, setting out new conditions under which the country would consider using its arsenal.
The doctrine now says an attack from a non-nuclear state, if backed by a nuclear power, will be treated as a joint assault on Russia.
The update was proposed in September and rubber stamped on Tuesday, the 1,000th day of the war with Ukraine.
It also follows Washington’s decision on Monday to allow Ukraine to fire long-range US missiles into Russia.
Bird flu
Under the changes, a large attack on Russia with conventional missiles, drones or aircraft could meet the criteria for a nuclear response, as could an attack on Belarus or any critical threat to Russia's sovereignty.
Any aggression against Russia by a state which is a member of a coalition would be seen by Moscow as aggression from the whole group.
The updates expand the number of countries and coalitions, and the kinds of military threats, subject to a possible nuclear response, according to state-run news agency Tass.
Putin has threatened the use of nuclear weapons before, and Ukraine has criticised it as "nuclear sabre-rattling" to deter its allies from providing further support.
But Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said "we strongly are in favour of doing everything to not allow nuclear war to happen".
Speaking at a press conference at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Mr Lavrov said a declaration signed by the group, which includes Russia "clearly said we want to move towards a world free of nuclear weapons". (BBC)
in Canada may have mutated to become more transmissible to humans
The teenager hospitalized with bird flu in British Columbia, Canada, may have a variation of the virus that has a mutation making it more transmissible among people, early data shows – a warning of what the virus can do that is especially worrisome in countries such as the US where some H5N1 cases are not being detected.
The US “absolutely” is not testing and monitoring bird flu cases enough, which means scientists could miss mutated cases like these, said
Richard Webby, a virologist at St Jude children’s research hospital’s department of infectious diseases.
“We need to be following this as closely as we can. Any advanced warning we can get that there’s more viruses making these types of changes, that’s going to give us the heads-up,” Webby continued.
The Canadian teen first developed symptoms on 2 November and was hospitalized at the British Columbia children’s hospital on 8 November. The child is still in critical condition with acute
respiratory distress – a serious lung condition that can be fatal.
Preliminary sequencing of the H5N1 variant sickening the teenager showed a potential mutation on the genomic spot known to make people more susceptible to the virus.
That could indicate that H5N1 has the capability to become more like a human virus, rather than an avian virus, but it is also not clear yet whether this change is meaningful and more dangerous to people, experts said. (The Guardian)
Bangladesh to seek extradition of ousted leader Sheikh Hasina from India
Bangladesh will seek the extradition of the former prime minister Sheikh Hasina to face trial on charges including crimes against humanity, the country’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, has said in a speech.
Hasina, whose autocratic regime governed Bangladesh for 15 years, was toppled in a student-led revolution in August. Since then she has been living in exile in India after fleeing the country in a helicopter as thousands of protesters overran the presidential palace.
Following her escape, Bangladesh has been run by an interim government under Yunus, an economist and Nobel laureate who agreed to return to the coun-
try as a “chief adviser” to help restore democracy and reform Bangladesh. In an address over the weekend, Yunus confirmed his government intended to bring Hasina back to the country to face a mounting
number of charges, including corruption, murder and crimes against humanity.
Referring to Hasina, Yunus said: “We will seek the extradition of the ousted autocrat from India.” (The Guardian)
Visits to correctional centres in Jamaica suspended following confirmed cases of swine flu
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has suspended visits to all adult and juvenile correctional institutions across the island following confirmed cases of the Influenza A (H1N1) virus, also known as swine flu, at two correctional centres.
DCS shared the advisory on social media on Tuesday, stating that the closure will remain in effect until December 2, 2024.
The precautionary measure was implemented after cases of the virus were found at the St Catherine Adult Correctional Centre and the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre, DCS said.
It added however that food drop-off by family members scheduled for Wednesday, November 20, will proceed as planned, as per established guidelines.
“This suspension is necessary to prevent further spread of the virus and to
safeguard the health and safety of inmates and staff within the facilities,” DCS said.
DCS stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to work with the relevant ministries and agencies to manage and contain the spread of the virus. Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, cough, sore throat, running and stuffy nose, muscle aches and extreme tiredness. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may also occur, but are more common in children. (Jamaica Observer)
Haiti police, civilians kill 28 gang members: authorities
Police and civilian self-defense groups killed 28 gang members in the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince in an overnight operation, authorities said Tuesday, as the government seeks to regain some control of the city.
Officers stopped a truck carrying gang members in the wealthy suburb of Petion-Ville about 2:00 am, while a bus ferrying gang members was intercepted in the city centre, Haitian National Police spokesman Lionel Lazarre told AFP. Police opened fire in both
encounters, killing 10, and then chased down those who fled with the help of self-defense groups, formed by residents opposed to the gangs and their violent rule over swaths of the country. Last year, in a gruesome chapter of vigilante reprisals, a dozen alleged gang members were stoned and burned alive by residents in Portau-Prince.
Well-armed gangs control some 80 percent of the city, routinely targeting civilians despite a Kenyanled international force that has been deployed to help
the outgunned police. The Haitian capital has seen renewed fighting in the last week from Viv Ansanm, an alliance of gangs that in February helped oust former prime minister Ariel Henry. Streets were almost deserted on Tuesday after police and residents erected barricades in several neighbourhoods. Viv Ansanm spokesman Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherisier, a notorious gang leader, has called for the resignation of the transitional government currently leading the country. (AFP)
El Salvador ex-president among 11 to face trial for 1989 murder of Jesuits
Acourt in El Salvador has ruled to bring a former president and retired military officials to trial for their alleged roles in the prominent murder of six Jesuit priests, their housekeeper and her teenage daughter during the country’s civil war 35 years ago.
The former president Alfredo Cristiani, a former congressman and nine retired military officials are charged with murder and acts of terrorism over one of the most notorious crimes committed during El Salvador’s 12-year civil war, which left 75,000 civilians dead and only formally ended in 1992.
Cristiani’s whereabouts are unknown. The de-
fendants include the former congressman Rodolfo Parker and the retired military officials Oscar León and Manuel Rivas, who are also accused of alleged procedural fraud and personal cover-up.
“We are now heading to trial, and in that phase, we aim to prove that we truly have nothing to do with this,” León told reporters upon learning of the decision late on Monday.
In November 1989, a military commando stormed the Jesuit Central American University (Uca) campus, killing its rector, the Spanish priest Ignacio Ellacuría, five of his colleagues – Ignacio Martín Baró, Segundo Montes,
Juan Ramón Moreno, Joaquín López y López, Amando López, along with Elba and Celina Ramosand. The attack was orchestrated by senior military commanders who targeted Father Ellacuría in an attempt to derail peace talks. But the atrocity provoked such widespread international condemnation that it eventually helped push the US to end its support for El Salvador’s military regime. The civil war between El Salvador’s government and the leftist Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front guerrillas lasted from 1980 to 1992 and resulted in about 75,000 deaths and 8,000 disappearances. (The Guardian)
Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka last January. Prosecutors in Bangladesh have issued a warrant for her arrest (Photograph: Altaf Qadri/AP)
The Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre in Kingston. The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has suspended visits to all adult and juvenile correctional institutions across the island following confirmed cases of the Influenza A (H1N1) virus, at two correctional centres (Photo: Karl Mclarty)
Windies captain Powell takes mixed bag from England series as Bangladesh assignment approaches
West Indies captain Rovman Powell has been candid in his assessment of his team’s shortcomings following their 3-1 series loss to England in the recently concluded five-match T20 International series.
Powell acknowledged the challenges the team faced in adapting to conditions early in the series, but remained optimistic about their upcoming clashes with Bangladesh. This as he believes the Caribbean side once again showed glimpses of its potential throughout the series, but was unable to consistently produce a complete performance.
In fact, England’s decision to bowl first in the opening three matches — two at Kensington Oval in Barbados and one at the Darren Sammy Stadium
in St Lucia — exposed the West Indies' struggles to navigate challenging conditions. They lost key wickets in quick succession during the powerplay in all three games; posted scores of 1829, 158-8, and 145-8; and lost by eight wickets, seven wickets, and three wickets in that order. As such, Powell admitted that the team’s inability to adapt cost it dearly.
“I think we always, as a batting group, have a template that we try to work with; unfortunately, the template didn’t work in our first few games. It took us about two or three games to really wonder what’s really happening to us as a batting group, and we also need to sharpen up on a few areas as a bowling group,” Powell said after the rain-affected final game at the Daren
Sammy Cricket Ground in St Lucia.
While he views as light at the end of the proverbial tunnel the team’s victory in the fourth T20I -- when they pulled off a historic chase of
England’s 218-5 by scoring 221-5 to secure a five-wicket win -- that win was merely to salvage some pride. With that in mind, Powell highlighted the importance of quicker assessment and
adaptability as key takeaways from the series.
“As a team, we need to assess a little bit faster. We didn’t play good cricket for long enough periods, and that made it a tough series.
I think a lot of credit has to be given to Jos [Buttler] and his team; they really came in our conditions and dominated,” the Jamaican stated.
Despite the loss, Powell, who was among the standout performers -- finishing as the series’ second-highest run scorer with 153 runs -- is determined to build on the positives from the England series as the team shifts focus to the upcoming three-match T20I series against Bangladesh next month.
“The way we played the last (fourth game) showed that we can play really good cricket. If we had just assessed the conditions a little bit earlier in the series, it possibly would have been a different outcome. These are lessons to be learned,” Powell noted. (Sportsmax)
Persistent rain in Pallekele meant the final ODI between Sri Lanka and New Zealand was washed out, with Sri Lanka, who had won the first two games, taking the series 2-0.
This is Sri Lanka's fifth ODI series win this year.
It was an anti-climactic end to a game that had begun with much promise, courtesy of a fresh pitch that was expected to suit the batters, as opposed to the more sluggish surfaces served up in the first two games.
New Zealand, having won
the toss, decided to take first lease of it, and proceeded to get off to their best start of the series. The first ten overs saw them ticking along at a touch under six per over, despite not taking many risks. That was primarily down to the fact that nearly 40% of those runs had come off the wayward Dilshan Madushanka, whose two overs went for 23 runs.
That was the last of Madushanka with the ball, but some sloppy efforts in the outfield meant it was a day to forget for the left-arm seamer, who had, just 12 months prior,
SCOREBOARD
New Zealand (50 ovs maximum)
Will Young not out 56
Tim Robinson c Asalanka b Shiraz 9
Henry Nicholls not out 46
Extras (lb 1) 1
Total 21 Ov (RR: 5.33) 112/1
Did not bat: Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay †, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Zakary Foulkes, Ish Sodhi, Adam Milne
Fall of wickets: 1-24 (Tim Robinson, 3.2 ov)
Wickramasinghe 2-0-14-0 Maheesh Theekshana 4-0-15-0 Jeffrey Vandersay 5-0-18-0 Charith Asalanka 3-0-18-0
Sri Lanka Playing XI: Nishan Madushka, Avishka Fernando, Nuwanidu Fernando †, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Janith Liyanage, Mohamed Shiraz, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dilshan Madushanka.
SRI LANKA CLINCH SERIES 2-0
– after rain washes out third ODI
been one of the most-soughtafter seamers in world cricket following a stellar World Cup in India.
That seemed to be a lifetime ago, as he struggled to maintain consistent lines and lengths, even as the first five boundaries of the New Zealand innings came off his bowling.
At the other end, though, Sri Lanka kept things relatively tight; first through seamer Mohamed Shiraz, and then through their bevy of spinners. The solitary wicket of the innings had in fact come courtesy of Shiraz, playing in just his second ODI and his first of the series; though it had also owed much to skipper Charith Asalanka, who leapt high to his left at mid-off to hold on to a mistimed drive from Tim Robinson.
Shiraz's five overs went for 23 runs, as both Robinson
and Will Young were troubled by his late swing - 20 dot balls out of 30 legal deliveries spoke of his control.
New Zealand had managed a scoring rate nearing six even after the powerplay, comfortably knocking the ball
around despite Sri Lanka cutting off the boundary opportunities. Young and Henry Nicholls were largely untroubled, with the pair unbeaten on 56 and 46 respectively, and their partnership at a threatening 88 off 106, before rain brought play to a permanent end after just 21 overs.
The abandonment of the game was a missed opportunity for both sides, as they sought to test their bench strength. For the visitors, there was a debut for seamer Zakary Foulkes, who had impressed in the T20I leg, while fellow seamer Adam Milne also got his first game on the tour. They had come in for Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, had made no less than five changes: with Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage and Asitha Fernando all making way for batters Nishan Madushka and Nuwanidu Fernando, seamers Madushanka and Shiraz, while there was also a debut for seam-bowling allrounder Chamindu Wickramasinghe - who bowled just two overs and gave away 14 runs.
(ESPNcricinfo)
Sri Lanka won the ODI series 2-0 after rain washed out the third match
Will Young's fifty led New Zealand's innings
MR GUYANA SET FOR DECEMBER 1
The Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GBBFF), in collaborative with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, will host its flagship competition, the MR. GUYANA national seniors’ bodybuilding and fitness championships, on December 1, 2024 at Olympic House.
All of the athletes who represented Guyana at the recently concluded 51st Central America and Caribbean Fitness and Bodybuilding Championships (CAC 2024) would be on stage at this marquee local competition.
This competition has so far attracted financial support from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and from Fitness Express, but several other business entities and individuals are expected to come on board financially.
Registration of athletes has already commenced, with several elite athletes already confirming their participation. Among the athletes confirmed for the much anticipated Mr. Guyana national seniors
are reigning Mr. Guyana Men’s Physique Champion, CAC gold medalist and pro-card winner Emmerson Campbell; reigning Ms. Guyana Bikini Wellness Champion, CAC gold medalist and pro-card winner Hannah Rampersaud; CAC gold medalist and pro-card winner Nicholas Albert, CAC gold medalist Julio Sinclair, CAC silver medalist Christina Ramsammy, CAC silver medalist Anthony Mc Lean; and other CAC medalists such as
Seon Budhan and Melitha Anderson, and many other bodybuilding and fitness athletes. An official list of all athletes competing would shortly be made public.
The Mr. Guyana national seniors’ championships would see competition across five categories. On the night of the competition, there will be in excess of 30 athletes competing in Bodybuilding, Men’s Physique, Bikini, Wellness and Fitness.
Cuba book spot in Concacaf Gold Cup prelims
Cuba overturned a deficit in a 5-2 aggregate Play-In win over St Kitts and Nevis to book a spot in the Gold Cup prelims. Cuba booked their spot in the Concacaf Gold Cup prelims after they turned the tables on St Kitts and Nevis in their Concacaf Nations League Play-In tie on Monday.
Needing to overturn a deficit from their 1-2 firstleg loss, Cuba did just that in commanding fashion, as they blanked St Kitts and Nevis 4-0 in a lopsided return-leg
encounter at Estadio Antonio Maceo in Santiago de Cuba. After bossing possession for most of the first half, Cuba inevitably broke the deadlock when Onel Hernandez produced a decent solo run on his way to driving home a right-footer from the top of the penalty area to level the series on aggregate at that point. But the hosts were far from done, and doubled the lead on the stroke of the break, as Yosel Piedra also converted from close range in the 45+3 to make it 2-0 at
Minister Ramson announces plans to refurbish Cadet
Lane Community Ground
During an outreach within the environs of South Ruimveldt Georgetown on Tuesday, Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., disclosed that there are plans to refurbish the Cadet Lane Community Ground, which has been neglected for many years.
Minister Ramson detailed that the facility would be completely levelled, a turnstile and vehicle entrance would be constructed, floodlights would be installed, and a third entrance would be constructed. This rehabilitation would be completed by the end of this year.
As he urged those who reside in the community to maintain the cleanliness of the community ground, the Minister expressed, “It's your ground, but you have to put effort into clearing it. You have to take care of your exercise book or your sports equipment. After you're finished playing in the mud, you take a little
er tractors, we have some bobcat excavators and mini excavators. We don't generally need the excavators and bobcats. Very rarely do we need it.
“Let's say, for example, in a situation like this, where you've got a whole
toothbrush and go and clean it. Similarly, a community conference requires a kind of support, and it requires a kind of interest and caring.
“So I can come and do it myself, but it's also important that you learn how to do this and take on that level of responsibility and discipline and maturity as you continue to get older.
All those things will help you, as you get older in life, to develop important lessons as well as principles and attitudes and behaviour. All of those things will help you to become successful in life.”
the break and 3-2 on aggregate. With St Kitts and Nevis offering very little resistance on the resumption, Cuba extended their lead in the 50th, courtesy of Luis Paradela’s close-range finish. Maykel Reyes then converted an 87-minute penalty to cap the win, as Cuba continued their march towards making the cut for next year’s Concacaf Gold Cup.
A win in the preliminary rounds would see them achieving that feat. (Sportsmax)
Indicating that a Rapid Response Group has been organized to monitor community grounds throughout Guyana, Minister Ramson added, “So we've organized already, right? And you can see the ground is in very decent condition in terms of the level of the grass. I organized within my ministry a Rapid Response Group. So, we sent around our machines, there are 34 community grounds in Georgetown, we sent around our machines. We have tractors, we have driving lawn mow-
bunch of stuff at the side of the road, you might need it for that: to clear the parapet; or if you've got a roof material down here, they just park the material on the bridge. We might use it in that situation, but very rarely.
“Mostly, though, what we do now is just bring the tractor. It's got a slasher at the back. They just come and drive. They drive for even an hour, two hours, whatever it is, and then they move to another location. So, we do that once a month, depending on how much rain there is.
“We haven't had to deploy that during a rainy season yet. Obviously, you know that grass grows more when there's a lot more rain. We haven't had to deploy that as yet since we started it, but we're going to monitor it. You've got to keep in mind that if we were to do that when the ground is really soft, the heavier machines damage the ground. The problem with that, though, is that when we have to cut with the slasher, with the hand slasher, it's very expensive.
“To cut the ground now is probably about $300,000; just to cut the ground with hand slashers. Because you're not only cutting the grass, you've got to pick it up and then you've got to take it away. So, it's expensive, depending on the size of the ground. But for maintenance, we have devised an in-house solution that has been working very well.” Over the past few years, Cadet Lane Community Ground had become a veritable jungle that had caused the community much discomfort. However, the Ministry of Sport has already eradicated the bush and has erected a fence, giving the local youths a secure place to play. (Omar McKenzie)
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr
Youths playing at the Cadet Lane Community Ground
Cuban players celebrating
A glimpse of what to expect at this blockbuster event on December 1
Warriors vs The World:
Exciting ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League takes over Guyana National Stadium next Tuesday
The Guyana National Stadium is next Tuesday, November 26th, expected to be enraptured in the same vibrancy and excitement that engulfs the venue during the Caribbean Premier League. This is as the inaugural ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League gets underway. Local franchise Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) will come up against 4 other T20 champions from around the world, namely: Pakistan’s Lahore Qalandars, Bangladesh’s Rangpur Riders, Australia’s Victoria Cricket and England’s Hampshire Hawks, with a US$1M prize pool on the line.
During an exclusive sit down with <<Guyana Times Sport>> on Tuesday, Director of the GSL T20, Jamie Stewart, discussed the unique opportunity that Guyanese fans have to witness the tournament and be part of cricketing history.
“It’s only really happened once before, and that was over a decade ago. So, it’s a very ambitious project, I guess. You know, everyone loves the Warriors, and now the fans get a chance to see them play against the top Pakistan Super League team, the top Bangladesh Premier League team and the most winningest T20 Blast team from UK in Hampshire. So, it’s very unique. The prize money you’ve seen is significant. Guyana is making history; and I hope, to the fans out there, you’ll come and be part of history with us,” Stewart told this daily publication.
In detailing what fans can expect for the GSL T20, Stewart alluded to a riveting party atmosphere, one similar to the CPL. He explained, “The reason the CPL team has been brought in to help execute this in relatively tight timelines is to deliver to the fans the same sort of experiences they get at CPL.
So you can expect more of the big party, more of the party atmosphere, more of the entertainment on and off the field, whether it be Tassa bands, stilt walker, fire breathers, and all of that stuff that people have come to expect from CPL,” he said.
“So, we’re going to have that experience, but this time it’s not the Warriors taking on the rest of the Caribbean, it’s the Warriors taking on the World; and that’s pretty exciting,” he went on to share.
With less than 7 days left to get tickets, Stewart is urging Guyanese fans to do so, highlighting the importance of having a memorable start to the tournament.
Guyana; bold, confident, dynamic Guyana, projecting itself to the world. And so it’s very important, I think, that in that first match we have a packed stadium beaming out across to literally hundreds of millions of people around the world, who will be watching this event.
“It’s the run to the finish line here,” Stewart joked about the time remaining before the tournament starts.
He further noted, “We want to make sure this is
Guyana’s rising stars VS
“It’s very important we fill the stadium for that first game. I hope the fans will come out to cheer the Warriors against the Lahore team, which are by far the most popular team in the PSL,” he disclosed.
“Things are getting close. I’ve seen posts from the teams waiting at their airports in their respective countries to board flights to make what is a long journey to Guyana. So, we’ll be welcoming them shortly.
It’s a big time for Guyana at the moment,” he disclosed.
The ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League, though in its inaugural year, is pegged to become an annual event; one for which the Director shared both long and short-term goals.
“Stewart explained, “The vision for this event came from the top, and it’s about creating an annual major international sports event for Guyana, one that projects a bold and modern, and I would say ambitious Guyana to the world. But I would say also it’s tapping in to the core passion of the people of Guyana, so it’s also bringing the Guyanese people together under this cause of celebration for the sport everyone loves. So, I would say it’s the jewel objectives of ‘One Guyana’ bringing everyone together to cheer on the teams,” he explained.
“In future years, hopefully, cricket fans from around the world will travel to Guyana; and even if they don’t, the event will be beamed all over the world,
and it’s projecting a very ambitious and vibrant Guyana to all of the cricket world,” the GSL T20 Director went on to add.
The GSL T20 will bowl off next Tuesday at the aforementioned venue with the Guyana Amazon Warriors taking on Pakistan’s Lahore Qalandars in the opening match from 19:00hrs. Tickets for the event, which will conclude on December 7, are available in Berbice at A. Ally and Sons, 15-9 Main and New Streets, New Amsterdam; or Sensation Variety and Gift Shop, 10 Number 78 Public Road, Corriverton. In Essequibo, tickets are available at ICAN Technologies, 1 Apartment 47 WD’s Mall, Charity; or 53 Cottonfield, Essequibo Coast. and S&N Creole Snackette, Cottonfield Old Road, Essequibo Coast. In addition, the 233-234 Camp Street, Georgetown Box Office is open for ticket sales. (Jemima Holmes)
EBFA U14 League continues to showcase
The East Bank Football Association Boys U14 League delivered another thrilling round of matches on Sunday, November 17, 2024, showcasing the talent and promise of Guyana’s young football stars.
In the opening match, Herstelling Raiders FC showcased their dominance by overpowering Soesdyke Falcons FC with a resounding 8-1 victory. The match kicked off with an early spark, as 11-year-old Wayshawn Forde opened the scoring in the 5th minute with a stunning rightfooted chip over the out-of-position goalkeeper.
The floodgates were opened, and the goals continued to pour in for the Raiders. Eli Archer netted twice in the 9th and 28th minutes, Micaiah Shewram added a brace in the 21st and 54th minutes, Clifton Sampson struck twice in the 39th and 42nd minutes, and Ralph Reid closed the scoring in the 58th minute.
fort, the young Falcons were unable to match the firepower of the Raiders, who displayed remarkable skill and coordination throughout the game.
Despite their spirited ef-
The day's second match saw league leaders Timehri United FC taking on Swan FC in a fast-paced and exciting contest. Both teams displayed
excellent defensive organization, with their goalkeepers stepping up to make crucial saves and maintain clean sheets. The match ended in a hard-fought draw, with each team earning a well-deserved point.
The action continues on Sunday, November 24, 2024 at the Herstelling Football Ground in the Mocha-Arcadia Housing Scheme on the East Bank of Demerara. Fans are invited to come out and support the next generation of
football stars as they showcase their skills and passion for the game.
The East Bank Football Association remains committed to nurturing young talent and fostering a love for football in Guyana.
Scenes from the EBFA Under-14 league clash last Sunday
The Lahore Qalandars will be the first to represent ‘The World’ when The ExxonMobil Guyana GSL bowls off next Tuesday Warriors vs The World: The ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League bowls off next Tuesday
ricket fever is about to ignite Guyana, as local cricketing sensation Shimron Hetmyer gears up to represent the Guyana Amazon Warriors in the inaugural ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSLT20)! This marquee tournament will take place from November 26 to December 7, 2024 at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, and five elite teams from around the globe would be featured vying for a US$1 million prize pool.
Expressing his excitement, Hetmyer shared, "I’m thrilled to represent the Guyana Amazon Warriors on home soil in this historic tournament. The GSLT20 is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our talent against world-class teams, and I can’t wait to see the stands filled with our passionate fans cheering us on. Let’s make this a tournament to remember!"
The tournament promises action-packed entertainment, with 10 thrilling group-stage matches and the much-anticipated grand finale on December 7th. Participating teams are Guyana Amazon Warriors, Lahore Qalandars, Hampshire Hawks, Rangpur Riders and Victoria. Tickets, ranging from $1,000 to $7,000, are available at five convenient locations: Georgetown:
to light up GSL
o Local Box Office, 233-234 Camp Street (Weekdays: 9:00 AM –5:00 PM | Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Berbice:
o A. Ally and Sons, 15-9 Main and New Streets, New Amsterdam
o Sensation Variety and Gift Shop, 10 Number 78 Public Road, Corriverton
Essequibo:
o ICAN Technologies, 1 Apartment 47 WD’s Mall, Charity
o ICAN Technologies, 53 Cottonfield, Essequibo Coast
o S&N Creole Snackette, Cottonfield Old Road, Essequibo Coast
Match Schedule
• Tuesday, Nov 26: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Lahore Qalandars (7:00 PM)
• Wednesday, Nov 27: Hampshire Hawks vs Rangpur Riders (7:00 PM)
• Friday, Nov 29: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Victoria (7:00 PM)
• Saturday, Nov 30: Hampshire Hawks vs Lahore Qalandars (10:00 AM)
• Sunday, Dec 1:
o Rangpur Riders vs Victoria (10:00 AM)
o Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Hampshire Hawks (7:00 PM)
• Tuesday, Dec 3: Victoria vs Lahore Qalandars (7:00 PM)
• Wednesday, Dec 4: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Rangpur Riders (7:00 PM)
• Thursday, Dec 5: Lahore Qalandars vs Rangpur Riders (7:00 PM)
• Friday, Dec 6: Hampshire Hawks vs Victoria (7:00 PM)
• Saturday, Dec 7: GSLT20 Final (7:00 PM)
Shimron Hetmyer is eager to bring the fireworks for the ExxonMobil GSL T20