Kaieteur News

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For three days, Al Jazeera followed three families in Gaza to document how they are coping with hardly any food

drown in

‘Make do with what you get, spend it wisely’ ‘fish pond’

Venezuelan beats, robs landlord

Five bikers died in three days

Security Guard tells boss, ‘Bandits gone with the safe’ Phagwah morning:

Guyanese protest Bill Clinton's visit for role played in destabilizing Haiti

Chevron to pay over US$13M in settlement for California oil spills

Chevron Corporation, one of the largest oil companies in the world, has reached a settlement with California state agencies, agreeingtopayoverUS$13.1millionforpast oil spills in Kern County, Bakersfield. The Californianaturalresourcesagencydisclosed this agreement last Wednesday, marking a notable development as the state intensifies itsregulationsamidenvironmentalconcerns.

Chevron is currently in a legal battle against U.S. oil giant ExxonMobil and China’s CNOOC over the prolific Stabroek BlocklocatedoffshoreGuyana.

According to a recent report by Reuters, Chevron, which had previously covered the cleanupcostsforthespillsoccurringin2019, willallocateUS$5.6milliontotheCalifornia Department of Conservation and US$7.5 million to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). The spills in 2019 resulted in a minimum discharge of 800,000 gallons of oil and water into a creek bed in KernCounty,asreportedbylocalmedia.

Thesettlementrepresentsthelargestfine to date for these two California state departments, underlining the gravity of the environmentalimpactcausedbythespills.

Chevron, in response to inquiries from Reuters said, “The settlements demonstrate ourcontinuingcommitmenttotakeactionto address issues and prevent similar incidents inthefuture.”

Of the funds collected from Chevron, US$5.6 million will be directed towards ongoing efforts to seal old and abandoned wells,whileUS$7.5millionwillbeallocated for environmental enhancement projects, wildlife response preparedness, and future spill response funding According to the CDFW’s documentation, Chevron was responsible for over 70 oil spills in Kern Countybetween2018and2023,amountingto more than 446,600 gallons (approximately 10,633barrels)ofoilspilledduringthisperiod

ThissettlementcomesamidstCalifornia’s robust efforts to combat climate change.

MajoroilcompanieslikeExxonandChevron have recently made substantial write-downs, totaling US$5 billion, to adjust for impaired assets in California, reflecting their discontentwiththestate’sregulatorypolicies. Reuters reported that official remarks from both companies show their discontent with thestate’sregulatorypolicies.

California has a history of grappling with oil-related environmental disasters, ranging fromtheoilwellblowoutinSantaBarbarain 1969tomorerecentincidentssuchasAmplify Energy’soffshorespillin2021,whichledtoa US$50millionsettlement Inresponsetothese environmental challenges, the state has pursued legal action against major oil companies,accusingthemofdownplayingthe risksassociatedwithfossilfuels

‘Make do with what you get, spend it wisely’

- Former

U.S.

Pres. Bill Clinton tells KNews Journalist when asked about Exxon deal

Guyana’s oil contract with United States (US) oil major, ExxonMobil has been widely criticised by reputable international agencies for extending sweet giveaways to the operator of the prolific Stabroek Block and its subcontractorswhilethenationreceivesa meagreshareofitswealth.

The Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) signed with ExxonMobil back in 2016authorisesthedeductionof75%of the monthly revenue by the company to recovercosts.Theremaining25%isthen split with Guyana, meaning the country receives12.5%oftheprofits.Exxonalso pays a paltry 2% royalty to the country, when the global industry norm is 10%. Exxon and its subcontractors are also exempted from tax payments under the agreement but are still issued with receipts stating they have paid these costs to Guyana in order to avoid facing taxes in the US.

U.S. President,

shouldbespentwisely

Given the injustices of the Petroleum Agreement, former deputy comptroller for theStateofNewYork,TomSanzilloissueda number of reports and reviews on the giveaway deal Guyana signed with Exxon, urging the country to plug the existing loopholesinthecontract.

OnhisinauguralvisittoGuyana,Former US President Bill Clinton was asked to give his views on the oil deal with the American petro-giant. In an exclusive interview with thisnewspaperonthesidelinesofaneventat the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Georgetown on Tuesday, the former Head of State said the country’s oil dealisa“beginning”andtherevenuestreams

He was asked to share his thoughts on Guyana’soilcontractwhenhesaid,“Well,it dependsonwhattheydowithit;itdependson what else they do with their energy wealth. I thinkthePresident’sgotaprettygoodhandle on what he’s trying to do and this is a beginningforyou.Ithinkyoushouldaskme in two/three years whether you struck the right balance. I am inclined to think he’s gonnadogoodthings.”

OnlyonTuesday, Kaieteur News reported that the President of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), Alistair Routledge was grilled by the BBC on the lopsided oil contractitsignedwiththiscountry,robbingit ofitsnaturalresources.Oilwasdiscoveredby ExxonMobilin2015butproductionactivities commenced in 2019. Since oil production began, ExxonMobil deducted over US$19B fromthecountry’soiltocover its investments In the meantime,theBankofGuyana statistics indicate that the nation has only received approximately US$3.5B, as at December5,2023.

The government has ignoredcallsfortheagreement toberenegotiatedwithExxon and has instead crafted a new model PSA that mandates higher royalties, sets a lower cost recovery ceiling and demandsthepaymentoftaxes by oil companies. It has said these fiscal terms, that will govern future discoveries made outside of the oil-rich Stabroek Block, are nonnegotiable.

‘Guyana is one of the most incredible success stories for Exxon’–UpstreamPresident

Liam Mallon, the

Upstream President of ExxonMobil Corporation, recentlyopined that Guyana is“oneofthemostincredible successstories”.Mallonwas at the time speaking at the recently concluded CERAWeek hosted by S&P GlobalinHouston.

Upstream Online reportedthatMallontoldthe attendees at a CERAWeek session, “In my 40-year career, I have never worked on anything so exciting and soprolific.”

Mallon’s enthusiasm for the Guyana was palpable as he further highlighted, “It is one of the most incredible successstories.”

T h e U p s t r e a m President’s declaration underscoresthesignificance ExxonMobil attributes to its operations in Guyana, particularly within the prolificStabroekblock.

ExxonMobil Guyana announced the discovery of oil in 2015 and swiftly moved to commence production activities by December2019. Production from the Stabroek Block developments sits above 600,000 barrels per day (bpd) – with Exxon having the Liza 1, Liza 2 and the Payaraprojectsonline.

The oil companies have embarked on an aggressive drilling campaign in the Stabroek Block targeting three other developments: Yellowtail, Uaru and Whiptail projects. It should be noted thatYellowtail and Uaru have already been

approved, while Whiptail is under review awaiting government approval any daynow Situated in the northeastern offshore region of Guyana, the Stabroek Block boasts water depths ranging from 1,600 to 2,000 meters. The Stabroek Block is one of the largest exploration discoveries globallyinrecentyears.

ExxonMobil holds a 45% interest, Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. with 30% and CNOOC holds a 25% equityinterestinthisasset.

The Stabroek Block witnessed a remarkable discovery in 2023 with the unveiling of the Lancetfish field, located in ultradeepwater and deep-sea layers. Lancetfish field is one of the eight discoveries made by Exxon in the Stabroek Block, since 2022, and according to CNOOC

holdsanestimatedreserveof 746millionbarrelsofoil.

Accordingtodisclosures bytheoperator,theblockhas accumulated over 30 new discoveries, with a total estimated recoverable resource volume of approximately 11 billion barrelsofoilequivalent.

Inarecentdevelopment, ExxonMobil and its block partner CNOOC have both movedtoarbitrationtoassert their rights over Guyana’s goldenoilfield,theStabroek Block. This is as a result of Chevron’s US$53 billion takeover of Hess. Buying over Hess Corporation would give Chevron access to Hess’most valuable asset inGuyana.

Thecasewasfiledatthe International Chamber of Commerce in Paris, arguing that Exxon and CNOOC have a right of first refusal overHess’stake.

Govt.wantscitizenstoreportallegations ofcorruptiontolocalcommissions After UN expose…

The Government of Guyana is encouraging citizens to report allegations of corruption to local commissions rather than goingtotheUnitedNations.

This was the position adopted by the government following concerns raised by members of the United Nations Human Rights Committee last week when this country came up for review The President Irfaan Ali administration was unnerved by the questions raised on a number of issues including corruption allegations Vice President,BharratJagdeo.

In a press release issued on Monday, the Ministry of Governance said that on Friday, 22 March 2024, the Government of Guyana submitted written responses to the United NationsHumanRightsCommittee,aspartof the ongoing review of Guyana’s Third Periodic Report by the United Nations Human Rights Committee which took place from18thto20thMarch2024.

Accordingtotherelease,asthisperiodic processcontinues,thesubmissionintendsto provide updates and additional information in response to the questions raised by the Human Rights Committee in relation to the implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

“In this further submission, the GovernmentofGuyanaplacedonrecord,the facts surrounding several issues that were raised in an inaccurate and misinformed manner during the review, particularly in relation to the corruption allegations against

the Judiciary, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the sitting Vice President of Guyana. The Government objects to these allegations and has urged the Human Rights Committee to carry out due diligence to verify the information it receives before makingunfoundedallegations.”

According to the government, it underscoresthatbyvirtueofArticle154Aof the constitution of Guyana, the ICCPR is afforded constitutional supremacy To that end, all the constitutional commissions which also function as safeguards in Guyana’shumanrightsarchitectureareallin place,arefunctionalandreceivetheirannual subventions from the Government, the releasenoted.

“Every citizen in Guyana, without discrimination, has access to a fair and independent justice system on all matters. The Government therefore encourages formal complaints on corruption allegations be made to the relevant domestic commissions and redress mechanisms available for an appropriate investigation to be carried out. The Government of Guyana placesparamountimportancetoconsultation and inclusivity in decision making at all levels,”thereleasestated.

Government said the constitutional reform expected to commence in 2024 will take a consultative approach, and every Guyanese will determine relevant constitutionalamendments.“Contrarytothe contentionsmadebytheCommitteeasit

Continued on page 6

Editor:

Tel:

Thekilljournalistselsewhere

Guyana'schiefpolicymakerandVicePresident,Bharrat Jagdeo, took things over the top in his press conference on st Thursday, March 21 He said that they kill journalists in otherplaces. DuetothePPP/CGovernment'sgreatdevotion totheidealsofdemocracy,however,thathasnothappenedin Guyana. ItisbafflingthatJagdeofeltitnecessarytomention thatpartaboutjournalistsgettingkilledwhileonduty The question that can be justifiably asked is whether the vice president and chief policymaker was sending a message.A message that may mean nothing, or a veiled one that representsmuchmenace.

VicePresidentJagdeoisnotamanwhospeaksidly,nor someone given to moments of humour When he finds himself under pressure, especially from international sources,theworstspillsoutofhim. Hecancontrolneither his temper nor his tongue, as he works himself into a probablypremeditatedrage,andcomesreadytolashoutat anyonewhostandsinhisway Takingallthisintoreview,we donotthinkthatitisgoingtoofarinbelievingthatthereis somethingsinisterlurkingbehindJagdeo'swordsaboutthe killing of journalists in foreign locations. Why even go there? Why did he take comfort in referring to such developments, given the often-tense relationship between the PPP/C Government and Jagdeo himself with some sections of the independent mainstream press? One has to wonder whether unsaid was that Guyanese journalists should thank their lucky stars that they have not been subjectedtothefateoftheirinternationalcounterparts.

Policies, some unspoken and mostly unwritten, but always covert, can be developed to address those in the media thought of as threats, and with a view to minimising the exposures they represent. This publication has no qualms about where it fits into both the government's and Jagdeo'srecurringepisodesofwhite-hotrage. Heisnotone thattakestookindlytobeingmadetolookoutofhisdepth,or deceptive, or one in bed with the foreign oil companies. When a leader of the known virulence of Jagdeo makes a point of bringing up the killing of journalists in foreign locations,webelievethatitisnotaccidental. Itisnotaslip of the tongue for Jagdeo knows the kind of subtle message that he desires to send. Since the beginning of the millennium, he has counted intimidation to be among his most helpful companions. Success brings confidence, growingreadiness.

Also, we at this paper are aware of how hostile uncontrolledelementsinthePPP/CGovernmentcanbe.Itis somethingatwhichJagdeohascompiledanottooflattering record,fromthetimewhenhewasGuyana'sheadofstate,to thissecondgoaroundwhenhisrecklessnessandarrogance have gone past civilized limits. While the nation's chief policymakeriscarefultohidebehindtheveilofdemocracy, nobody should be foolish enough to let down their guard. ForwithinthebowelsofthePPP/CGovernment,incredibly eveninitsCabinet,therearesomecharacterswhohavehad their histories, and their less than clean relationships.They are more than capable of taking out an offending human object or two. The only standards and conventions they comply with are their own, and they know that they can countonbackingfromthepowerswithintherulingPeople's Progressive Party In addition, there are the sensitive protective institutional powers in the State over which the partyingovernmenthastheclosestcontrol.

Deepinsideofhim,Jagdeoknowsthathehadcommitted morethanhisshareofegregiousharmstoprofessionalsand entities operating under the banner of the Fourth Estate. Like fearful leaders before him, those who embraced the despotic and autocratic, he recognizes that he has gone too far,butissoconvulsedbythatstatethathedoesnothingto correct himself. He finds more solace, therefore, in going downthesamedarkroad,andthinkinghimselfcleverwith his tabling of journalists being killed while in the field in foreign locations. PPP/C Government operators have repeatedlycrossedthelinetokillthecharacterofdissenters. Theycouldjustaseasilykillobjectionablepeople.

RIPRAP Sea defences in Guyana

DearEditor, As a Guyanese retired professional that loves his country, sir, I would like to bring to your attention a matter that could have serious implications for G u y a n a ' s f u t u r e developmentandthelivesof Guyaneseonthecoastline.

Firstly, in the Sunday Chronicle newspapers (5th February 2024), there were no less than 30 RipRap tenders for various sizes of projects across the coastline of Guyana totaling a sum of 4.2 billion Guyana dollars.

Tenders are open on the 8th ofFebruaryandcloseonthe 29thofthismonth.Sir,thisis significantgiventhefactthat therewasarecentbreachofa RIPRAP sea defence structure in Corentyne Berbice in January of 2024. The ministry came out with an explanation but as an engineer that has seen the sitetheexplanationdoesnot match the level of erosion

that has taken place. This breachfollowedontheheels of the Mahaicony breach in 1999 that swamped farmlands, homes and businesses and cost the government billions, the people in this area are still reeling to this day from this incident.

Sir, you have to sometimesbeverycarefulof what is told to you, for a much larger cover-up could betakingplace,andIbelieve it is happening in this case. GeotextilesorGeosynthetics arefoundationmaterialsthat are ENGINEERED for specific applications, meaninganengineerdesigns a structure and chooses a specific geotextile based on the mechanical and hydraulic factors that must bemaintainedfordecades.It should be noted that no two Geotextile manufacturers producetheexactGeotextile fabrics with the same specifications The main

purpose of the geotextile in RIPRAP is to withstand the constant pounding of the Atlantic Ocean, providing drainage and stopping erosionofthesoilbehindthe structure, so that a collapse or breach does not occur

Guyana's EU-funded

RIPRAP sea defence projects started in 1996 and basedonoursoilmechanics, wave action, weight of boulders etc. a Geotextile was chosen, this geotextile had been used until 2017 without a single collapse or breachoccurring.From2017 to now, contractors had decided that they wanted to use Geotextile materials out of China, mainly because it was cheaper, it was also not certified and 3rd and 4th grade yarns used to produce them, this type of quality is specifically done to sell in developing countries where no checks or standards are verified.

At the same time, it

should be noted that the tenderdocumentstothisday are still using the same specifications for the geotextile that is no longer being used in the RIPRAP structures. The price also remains the same and also the same estimated cost was used even though a much cheapergeotextilewasbeing used.Soofcourse,Guyana's SPECIALLY SELECTED C O N T R A C T I N G companies were able to make much more profits for these projects while at the same time putting the entire GuyaneseNationatrisk. Guyana is already 6ft. belowsealevelandscientists have warned that it is still sinking along the coastline. There is cause and effect to everything we do in life that is basic human knowledge, therapiddevelopmentofour coastline is putting more weight and strain on the Guyanacoastline. Also

(Continuedonpage 6)

Questions on National Security Compromised?

DearEditor, A drug lord wanted abroad by the Europeanswaspickedupatalocalhotel next to the USAEmbassy The hotel is reportedlyownedbyanofficialadvisor tothegovernmentonnationalsecurity It is reported that the drug man has residenceatthehotel.Theownerofthe hotel has not publicly disputed the report.

Theadvisorreportedlyownsseveral other businesses pertaining to aviation including an airline and being a handling agent for Omni Helicopter services that is involved in transportation work for Exxon. His airline does charter and regular service

from various parts of the country to Georgetown. Coincidencesareseveral.Thereare several cases of drugs in shipments comingfromGuyanabeingintercepted in Europe. Is there a drug nexus in Guyana involving shippers? It is unusual for a wanted man to take the risk to stay next to the USA Embassy Otherquestionshavebeenraised:Why did the drug kingpin choose that particularhotel,rightnextdoortoUSA Embassy, for his stay and or socializing? His presence in Guyana was well known as he registered a business and socialized with the First Family Why did the police decide to

pickhimupontheeveofthevisitofthe AmericanCIADirector?

Is it possible for flights especially from the hinterland areas to Georgetown to be compromised by narco-traffickers?Are business aspects of the security advisor more important thanoursecurity?

Government needs to review its security Ataminimum,thegovernment should disassociate themselves with any advisor with any connection with drug traffickers and other criminal elements. Omnishouldalsoreviewits security

Yourstruly,

OGGN clears air on false claims

DearEditor, The Oil and Gas Governance Network (OGGN) responds to a few of the many false claims in the paid advertisement posted by Robin Singh in StabroekNewson24March 2024.

We start with citizens' access to information, includingaccesstotheLaws of Guyana, which go to the heartofademocracy

In the OGGN shadow reportof4February2024to the 140th session of the UN International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR),weshowedthatthe Access to Information, Act No.21of2011,consolidates government power to strangle the flow of information Public Authorities have the power to classify information in 5

levels – only the lowest of which is accessible to the public.Andeventhislowest level is inaccessible when deemed “not in the public interest”, which term remainsundefined.

OGGNfurthernotedthat Laws of Guyana are not equally accessible. This rightisenshrinedinArticle7 of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) – 'All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protectionofthelaw Allare entitled to equal protection againstanydiscriminationin violation of this Declaration andagainstanyincitementto such discrimination'; https://wwwun org/en/abou t-us/universal-declarationof-human-rights. Clearly, if a citizen cannot read a law

because of obstacles created by the Government, the citizens cannot be expected tocomplywiththatlaw

Howisthiskeyuniversal featureofequalityexpressed in Guyana? In intentions, it is well expressed. A large part of the National Constitution is concerned with identification and protection of human rights:

Articles 9-40 and 212 onwards Article 149D speakstoequalitybeforethe law; Article 212D speaks to equality between all the people; and Articles 13 and 149C enshrine the intention of government to be shared between politicians and people However, that intention cannot be realised whenthegovernmentmakes use of its asymmetry in information.

To give an example: the

Vice President, who is responsible for the national oil&gaspolicy,saysthatoil production will level off for some decades because a succession of oilfields will be brought into production.

In spite of there being no ring-fencing, the Vice Presidentsaysthatcostswill bepaidoffsoonandGuyana will benefit from much greater oil revenues during orafter2027['Govt.banking on high oil prices to rake in US$9B by 2027 – Jagdeo', Kaieteur News, 17 March 2 0 2 4 , https://wwwkaieteurnewso nline com/2024/03/17/govtbanking-on-high-oil-pricesto-rake-in-us9b-by-2027jagdeo/].Therefore,saysthe Vice President, there is no need to negotiate the StabroekBlockProduction (Continuedonpage6)

The illegal action by Venezuela constitutes a serious threat to the interests and future of all Guyanese

DearEditor,

Inarecentandunsettling development, Venezuela has taken measures that not only exacerbate the longstanding territorial controversy over theEssequiboregionbutalso starkly violate the spirit and letter of the recently crafted ArgyleAgreement.

This agreement, a testament to our mutual commitmenttopeace,clearly stipulates that both Guyana and Venezuela shall refrain from any actions or rhetoric that could escalate conflicts arising from territorial controversies.

Venezuela's unilateral declaration of the Essequibo region as its own starkly contravenes this agreement, underminingtheprinciplesof peace and diplomacy that both nations have pledged to uphold.

This egregious act by Venezuela is not only a breach of international law but also a departure from decades of established precedent.

In its initial Application to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Guyana detailed how Venezuela, for morethanhalfacentury,had acknowledgedandrespected the1899Award'svalidityand the subsequent 1905 Map, which were both integral to delineating our territorial boundaries.

It is both notable and regrettable that Venezuela reversed its stance in 1962, coinciding with the United Kingdom's preparations to grant Guyana independence. This year, we mark the 57th anniversary of the 1966 Geneva Agreement, a reminder of our enduring quest for a peaceful and just resolutiontothisdispute.

The recent actions by Venezuelanotonlydisregard these historical agreements but also pose a significant threat to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity fundamental tenetsthatensurethestability and security of nations worldwide. Such unilateral

measures threaten to destabilizetheCaribbeanand Latin American region, creating a climate of uncertainty and potential conflict that extends far beyondourborders.

The unwavering support from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organization of American States (OAS) underscorestheinternational community's solidarity with Guyana.

It highlights the collective understanding of the importance of resolving this dispute through dialogue, adherence to international law, and the mechanismsprovidedbythe ICJ.

In response to these challenging times, I urge the President of Guyana, Mr Irfaan Ali, to exercise decisive leadership by convening a national dialogue that includes the opposition and other key stakeholders.

Our goal is to forge a

unified front in addressing this existential threat to our nation's sovereignty The sovereignty of Guyana transcends political divides; itisasharedtreasurethatwe must all safeguard with unwavering commitment andinclusivity

As we reflect on the significance of the Geneva Agreement's anniversary, let usrenewourcommitmentto seekingapeacefulandlawful resolution to this dispute. Our nation's future, and indeed the stability of our region,dependonourability to stand together in defense ofoursovereignrights.Iurge President Ali to place great store on Article 13 of Guyana's constitution and embrace inclusivity Inclusionary democracy lies at the heart of our nation's ethos, and it is incumbent upon us, all of us, to uphold thisprinciple,particularly,in thefaceofexternalthreatsto oursovereignty

We must, at the very basic level, transcend

partisan divides and stand united in defense of our territorial and national sovereignty

As we navigate these turbulent waters, we are reminded of the complex history of the Essequibo dispute, rooted in the colonialera.

Guyana's pursuit of a final and binding judgment from the ICJ to affirm the 1899 Arbitral Award is not only about territorial integrity but also about securing our nation's future economic and geostrategic interests.

The Essequibo region, rich in natural resources, is integral to Guyana's developmentandprosperity

I c o m m e n d m y colleague, MP Amanza Walton-Desir, Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs, forherproactiveengagement withthegovernmentinthese criticaltimes.

Itisimperativethatwe,as a nation, stand united and mobilize every resource at

our disposal to defend our territorial rights and uphold theprinciplesofinternational law

Let us stand together, across party lines and as a united Guyanese people, to ensure the security of our nation'sfutureandaffirmour commitment to peace, justice,andtheruleoflaw

Inunity,thereisstrength, and in strength, there is victory

Guyana's sovereignty doesnotbelongsolelytothe government but to all of us, irrespective of political affiliation.

When I took the oath to serveasaparliamentarian,it was with the solemn commitmenttorepresentand safeguard the interests of all Guyanese.

The illegal action by Venezuela constitutes a serious threat to the interests andfutureofallGuyanese.

Regards

RoysdaleFordeSC

Shadow Minister of LegalAffairsforGuyana

First Lady Office must account for public funds

DearEditor,

Annually, the National Assemblyapprovesfinances

for the office of the First Lady,Mrs.AriyaAli. However,itisdifficultto

OGGN clears air on false...

Frompage4

SharingAgreement(PSA)or ring-fencing. Moreover, he has seen the field development plans and he knows the volumes of oil in the reservoirs. The Vice Presidentassertsthatcitizens do not need to know [Kaieteur News (2024)

'Knowing oil reserves not importanttothenation'–VP Jagdeo tells reporters Kaieteur News. 22 March.

https://www.kaieteurnewson line com/2024/03/22/knowi

ng-oil-reserves-notimportant-to-the-nation-vpjagdeo-tells-reporters ]

OGGN can provide other instances of similar withholding by government of reports in other sectors, including gold and manganesemining.

This denial of access to information relevant to a national depletion policy (andhencethemedium-term future economy) is clearly contrary to the National Constitution,aswellastothe Access to Information Act number 21 of 2011. The field development plans are official documents, and Section 12 (1) of theAccess toInformationActstatesthat 'Notwithstanding any law to the contrary and subject to the provisions of thisAct, it shall be the right of every Guyanese citizen or person domiciled in Guyana to obtain access to an official document'. Howoperational is that statutory right of

accesstoStateinformation? It is not operational, as members of OGGN can attest from their attempts to make use of this Act; a few examples are included in OGGN'sshadowreport.

In addition, former Auditor-General Anand Goolsarran in his Accountability Watch column in Stabroek News reported that he was unable to locate annual reports of a c t i v i t y b y t h e C o m m i s s i o n e r f o r I n f o r m a t i o n ; https://wwwstabroeknews c om/2016/07/18/features/acc o u n t a b i l i t ywatch/politically-exposedpersons-anti-moneylaundering-legislation/ So citizens are denied access to official documents and cannot easily find which parts of which Laws are relevant in any particular case. One item in the paid advertisement in Stabroek News says that with special software, it is possible to read all the Laws. Some Laws are available only as images so poorly orientated that optical character recognition software cannot recognise the individual letters. And how are people – on the coast or in the hinterland – without special software, to read and know which parts of which Laws applytothem?

Sincerely

OilandGasGovernance Network

Govt. wants citizens to report...

Frompage3 relatestotheGastoEnergyproject,membersofthepublic wereengagedthroughnotifications,opportunitiestomake submissions, opportunities to attend scoping meetings, consultations,disclosuremeetings,andsoforth.”

Furthermore,governmentsaidthereisnoprooftoshow any bias in favour of multinational corporations in the environmentaldecision-makingprocessinGuyana.

On the issue of media freedom: “The Government of Guyana unequivocally rejects the allegations in relation to media and press freedom. Contrary to the allegations, the governmentrespectsandpromotesFreedomofExpression.

Inthisregard,theCommitteeisremindedtofactcheck allegationsontheownershipofthelocalmediainGuyana, particularly since more than a dozen social commentators and government critics operate daily talk shows across multiple broadcast social media platforms, with no interference from the government. In fact, the relevant authorities take harassment, threats, and attacks seriously and investigate and prosecute any reports received,” the release read. “The Government of Guyana hopes that the additional information will be considered by the Human RightsCommitteeinitsinterpretationoftheprogresswhich GuyanacontinuestomakeasaStateparty,towardsthefull realizationofthefundamentalprinciplesoftheICCPRand therightscontainedtherein.”

say how these funds are expended,whatprogrammes are in place and who are the actualbeneficiaries.

This is quite unlike the accountability by Guyana's former First Lady, Mrs Sandra Granger, whose projects with youth and women, especially in the areas of entrepreneurship and technology, were regularly reported in the media.

Former First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger was also very vocal about social

problems,includingthehigh rate of teenage pregnancies, and advocated for young teen mothers to be reintegrated into the formal school system. Today, many who benefitted from her initiatives are now sharing their experiences with their peers.

Mrs.Grangeralsospoke out against the rape of our young girls in the city and hinterland communities Unfortunately, while many young girls and women continue to suffer at the

hands of their partners, family members and leaders in society, it is quite dishearteninganddisturbing that the current First Lady, Ms. Ali, has failed to speak outonthesesocialissues.

Editor, we have had the deaths of the mothers of the Henry boys, the Mahdia dormitory inferno, which tookthelivesof20innocent students, youth perpetrators and youth victims of crime. What is the First Lady's response to these issues? I wouldbegratefuliftheFirst

Lady were to share publicly how the budgeted allocation has been spent and which regions and population segments have benefitted. If there is any collaboration with the Office of the First Lady, the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, to address these issues. I urge the Office of theFirstLadytomakepublic the nature of such collaboration.

Yourssincerely,

AnnetteFerguson,MP

RIPRAP Sea defences in Guyana

Frompage4 areasthatwereoncepermeablearenow impermeable due to buildings so our lack of a proper drainage is further compounded.Ourdrainagetrenchesare now being converted to much smaller concrete drains, so while Guyana is speeding along with development it is done in a haphazard manner, this along with poor materials and workmanship and no maintenance, will ensure this beautificationwillnotlastverylong,but onceitcanfillthepocketsofafewitwill continue.

Lookatthelevelofwateratkokers at high tide and see they are up to the brim with water, so Guyana is already ontheprecipiceonamajordisaster

The2005floodswerejustawarning to Guyana to get its act together with respecttofloodprevention,preparation and response, look at all the pump stationcontractsandseethenumberthat isnotevenclosetostartingandmonies paid out, all these issues are greatly increasingourproblem,Guyanaisatthe edge of disaster with respect to its coastlinedefensestrategy,itisamatter of when not if it will happen, and all Guyanese will suffer to some level and degree.

The Chinese are able to produce a cheaper geotextile because the use of 3rd or 4th Grade yarns and their geotextiles are untested or uncertified, while they would sell the low-grade geotextilesto3rdworldcountries,these geotextiles would not be allowed to enteradevelopedcountrybecausethese materials would have to be tested and certified before they can enter the country

With Guyana's soft clayey soil conditions and more areas needing soil engineering, the proliferation of uncertified, untested geotextiles from any country would not help Guyana in building the next Singapore or Dubai, those countries have construction standards that are strong and not to be messedwithbyanyonebecausetheyare building for the long-term, no country cannot keep rebuilding infrastructure everyfiveyearsandpayinglawsuitsand become a first world country Guyana urgently needs to invest in a lab for Geosynthetics, so that when a Tender has specific specifications for a geotextile, the contractor can get his geotextiletestedandcertifiedbythelab, and the materials on site have to be checked to ensure it is in compliance

with the engineer requirements. This will ensure our capital projects are getting the materials specified by the project engineer, who has designed the structure based on the specifications of the geotextile, capital structures will then have a longer life span with minimal maintenance, and the country can use its resources on new projects instead of rebuilding recently built structures.

Thisshort-termmindsetandculture must be crushed for Guyana to see its true potential, believe me, contractors willstillmakeaheftyprofitandbecome thebillionairestheywanttobe,Guyana at the same time must build its country onasolidfoundationandgeotextilesare apartofthatfoundation.

WiththerecentbreachinBerbiceor the one in Mahaicony in 1999 if the geotextiles were tested to check its compliancewiththeTenderdocuments, itwouldnothavebeenapprovedforuse. With these Chinese geotextiles in dozens of RIPRAPstructures along the coastofGuyana,itisasittingtimebomb for the Nation, in my estimation, there will be much more breaches that will happen, that can literally cost the Governmenttrillions.

Sinceallonehastodoisfileaclass action lawsuit and get the geotextile tested to compare it with the specifications stated in the Tender documentandtheywillnotmatch.

Engineers in Guyana seem to have lost their power of oversight with contractors,andthatismostunfortunate for the future of the fastest growing economy

I am not advocating for any geotextile company, my interest is in usingtherightgeotextileasspecifiedin theTender,withwhatishappeningnow the government and the Guyanese peopleareleftexposedquiteliterallyat all levels using these geotextiles. The Chinese are quite capable in the manufacturing of quality geotextiles to sell to developed countries. However, they just like to take advantage of vulnerable developing nations with no wayoftestingandcheckingthequality ofthegeotextilematerialtheysell.The mechanical properties such as tensile strength,elongationandstaticpuncture also the hydraulic properties such as water permeability and characteristic opening. In the tenders are different from the Chinese Geotextiles being used. So, the specifications of the

Chinese Geotextiles are not in compliancewiththeTenderdocuments, for instance the water permeability is very important since it has to do with drainage, the pores in the Chinese geotextilearenotthesameasspecified intheTender,thiswillleadtoitclogging faster creating a blockage for water to pass through, thereby causing more strain on the structure and the eventual collapse or breach of the structure. When you look at various geotextile materials, they can look very similar, however when it is tested, the results couldbestrikinglydifferent.

The Geotextile is used to stop the erosion of the soil, provide drainage, withstandtheheavybouldersplacedon it and stand up for decades against the constant pounding of the Atlantic Ocean. With Guyana's coastline being over 90% of its economic activity and population, including farmlands, aquifers, residents, and new infrastructure being added every day, protecting its coastline should be a top priority, there is so much profit for contractors building RipRap sea defences, why risk the prosperity of GuyanawithuntestedGeotextiles?

Someimportantpoints:

It is recommended that stitching machines be used to strengthen the seams of the overlapped geotextile, if contractorsweretoinvestinthissimple machine, it will literally strengthen seams and pay for itself in the first project since they would not have to overlap the seam 3ft as recommended for a proper seam, the Chinese Geotextile roll is around 8ft wide so to overlap 3ft feet is impossible, with this notbeingdone,itisaverybigproblem for the long-term stability of the structure.Guyana needs to invest in a testing lab for Geotextiles just like you are having more concrete labs now, since the use of geotextiles will significantly increase due to Guyana's soft clay soil type and its rapid development more areas will be encounteredthatwillneedfoundational reinforcementusinggeotextiles.

All geotextiles used in Guyana RIPRAPseadefencestructuresmustbe certified and independently tested and comply with Tender specifications Guyana is set to be the next Dubai, but doesnothaveabuildingcodeinplace.

Regards

Phagwah morning: Security Guard tells boss, ‘Bandits gone with the safe’

Four bandits carted off with a safe containing$7Mandanumberofcheques fromDalipTradingLimitedonMonday

A security guard attached to the business called the owner, 61-year-old MohaswardattDalipatabout06:00hrsto inform him that he saw four bandits walking away from the Charlestown, Georgetownstorewiththesafe.

According to police, the store was broken into between 04:00hrs and 05:30hrs.

Thesecurityguard,whowasasleep, said he was alerted to sounds coming

fromthehardwarestore.Hereportedly made checks and saw the four men exiting the building with the safe The security guard did not attempt to stop the men nor did he pursue because thembecausehewasunarmed

Detectives were informed of the situation and during their investigation discovered that the building houses severalofficesandissecuredbyinternal locksandreinforcedbyirongrills.

Itwasnotedtoothatthesecurityhut is located on the eastern side of the building and that the safe was stolen

fromthecashier’sofficelocatedonthe bottomflatofthehardwarestore

Thecashier’soffice,policesaidhas a metal door and is also secured with internal locks. Police observed that therewerenosignsofforcedentryinto the building but noted that the metal door to the cashier’s office was pried open The bandits after gaining entry ransacked the office before fetching awaythesafe

Detectives are presently reviewing CCTV footage which they obtained. Investigationsareongoing.

We have no choice!

Abighueandcryisbeing r a i s e d a b o u t t h e government's decision to permit a firm to recruit nurses from Bangladesh This decision has sparked a cacophony of protests and concerns from various quarters, with some individuals seemingly waking up from a Rip Van Winkle-esque slumber to decrythemove.

However, it appears that reason and good sense has beendispensedwithandhas been replaced by the usual conspiracy theories and claims about nurses in Guyana not being paid enough Instead of wild excursions into the irrational,itisbettertotryto delve deeper into the underlying reasons behind the decision to import nurses.

Firstly, let us dispel the presumed notion that importing nurses is a novel conceptinGuyana.Contrary to the alarmist rhetoric permeating the discourse, the practice of importing medical professionals, including nurses, has been commonplace for over a decade. Both the PPP/C and t h e A P N U + A F C governments have allowed the importation of nurses fromIndiaandCuba.Private hospitals, in particular, have been sourcing nurses from countries like Cuba and India to meet their staffing needs.

These imported nurses h a v e e x h i b i t e d a commendable and work ethic, often outperforming their local counterparts

Their contribution to the healthcare sector cannot be overstated, especially considering the significant shortfall in nursing staff across various healthcare facilities. The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) alone faces a shortage of hundreds of 600 nurses. Last year, some 146 nurses resigned from that institution leading to a shortage of nurses, a problem that plagues the entirehealthsector

The root cause of this shortage lies not so much in domestic factors but in the pull factors from overseas.

Guyana, like many developingnations,grapples with the challenge of retaining healthcare professionals in the face of lucrative opportunities abroad. The allure of higher salaries and better living standards in countries like the United Kingdom often leads to a mass exodus of skilled personnel, further exacerbating the staffing crisis In the United Kingdom,aregisterednurse canearnataminimummore than US$3,300 per month, without overtime. Guyana cannot match that level of wages and that is why so many of our nurses have beenleaving.

Even if the government were to allocate substantial resources to raise nurses' salaries, the fundamental pull factors driving emigration would persist Thus, the recourse to recruiting from countries with lower per capita incomesthanoursbecomesa

DEM BOYS SEH

practicalandlogicalsolution toaddressnursingshortages. The ongoing expansion of

Guyana's healthcare infrastructure, including the construction of 12 new hospitals will worsen the nurses' shortages. Training more local nurses is not a solution.Thefasteryoutrain them, the faster they leave and there is only so many persons with the required academic subjects and who areinterestedinaprofession ornursesthatcanbetrained.

Guyana therefore has to look beyond the Cuba and India becomes imperative. Bangladesh is one country where you can recruit experienced nurses cheaply and who have some proficiency in English Beyond the healthcare sector, Guyana confronts broader challenges associated with labour shortages,particularlyinthe construction industry The surge in construction sector has created a massive need for labour in that sector

Even with the influx of Venezuelanworkers,thereis still today an acute shortage of labour in the country As such, Guyana has to move towards importing more labour, including soon for thenewhotelsthataregoing to be built. We have no choice.

Eventhemediaisfeeling the labour crunch The government has been snatching up media operatives from the private media They are wooing them away with higher salaries which the private media companies cannot

Dem cross buns like it gat gold inside

Two things yuh know yuh must have in any Guyanese Easter: kites and cross buns. Well, me nah know 'bout y'all, but dis year cross bun prices got people bussin' sweat more than dem kites in de Seawall breeze. It's like dem sellers suddenly find deh self sittin'onagoldmine,chargin'fuhdemcross buns like deh sprinkle it wid de essence of dehlastsupperorsummtin'.

Someplacesaskin'fuh$1,000fuhalil' bagoffivecrossbuns,likedembunscome wrappedingoldfoilorgotdiamondsbaked right in. Den yuh got dem oddas chargin' $2,000 fuh six buns like deh addin' a secret ingredient straight from deh heavens. Me cyanhelpbutwonderin',wha'discrossbun got inside dat worth more dan me own two eyeballs?

But wah dem boys more concerned

afford to match. We might soon therefore have to start importing media workers fromacrosstheCaribbean.

Rather therefore than succumbing to conspiracy theories, insecurities or misplaced apprehensions, critics should try to appreciate the problems facing labour in Guyana. There is no other solution than to move towards importing labour The possibility of having nurses from Bangladesh should not

about is how dem poor people supposed to afforddemkindaprices?

t'slikeplayin'acrueljokeondehpeople, nailin' 'em to a cross of poverty with dem ridiculousprices.

Wemighthavefamilieshuddlin''rounda single bun, slicin' it up so fine yuh need a magnifyin' glass to see deh crumbs. Easter usedtobe'boutjoy,celebration,andplenty eatin', but now it lookin' like a struggle just togetalil'tasteofdemcrossbuns.So,aswe approach Easter, let's not forget deh real reason fuh deh season: not just dem buns, but deh spirit of ensuring everybody get a biteofanaffordablecrossbun.Wecan'tlet demcrossbunpricescrucifywewalletstoo! If it too expensive fuh yuh, dem bake yuh own!

Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)

generatefears.Therealityis that most oil-producing countries outside of the West, do relay heavy on imported and cheap labour and there is no reason why Guyana should not do the same.Theseworkersarenot stealing anyone jobs. They are filling a shortage which cannot be filled locally And they are not coming here as immigrants. The nurses are usually given tow-year contracts after which they eitherreturntotheircountry or join the caravan to the United States of Europe to workinthosecountries.

Bharrat Dr.‘Billboard’Jagdeo

Something tells me that Guyana’s oil seer, Bharrat Jagdeo, sees jumbie It is either that or he sees whathewantstosee,whichmeans he sees nothing at all. He sees neither evil intent on Exxon’s partnerevildoersinGuyana.

It shouldn’t have to be said, butconsideringMr Jagdeo’skind and compassionate nature, that excludes those [evildoers in the local environment] who make his politicalandoilleadershiplifeinto abedofhotcoals.

For there is the big Guyana oilman having a difference with Exxon’smisleadingbillboardsbut declaring himself impotent about doing anything to get them removed. This man Jagdeo is a former president, some insist still the head of state today, but is brilliant enough to wash his hands fromthoseoffendingbillboards.

Itisonoccasionssuchasthese thatalltheworstmisgivingsabout Jagdeo take hold and just wouldn’tletgo Istherenobodyin OP,OVP,OPM,tosaytohimonthe qt:skipper,thisisnotlookinggood.

This makes everything that everybody is saying-all negative, and all degrading-about

leadership and standing for principle And for Guyanese. Since there is no one willing to do this, then there is no choice. I go forth.

I place this little piece of commonsense in Mr Jagdeo’s ear and head If a man erected a billboard with a nude photo of a living person that is found disturbing to public morals, or a deceptive message, then I am almost sure that he [Dr J] would find that to be unacceptable. He would use his powers to get somethingdoneaboutit. Itwould notmatterthatthemanhadpaidfor billboardandhismessage.

Here is another one to contemplate: if the Venezuelan Ambassador paid for a billboard with a message for Guyanese about Essequibo(thecontentisup for grabs), would Jagdeo then still insistthathishandsaretiedandhis mindblank?

Not Jagdeo in either instance Mr Jagdeo would have Attorney General Anil Nandlall, the Commissioner of Police, the Crime Chief, and every danged office of significance in this country working on Sundays and holidays to come up with

foundation and justification to be rid of what besmirches Guyanese sensibilities.

That is, whatever they have left of those, if any To go farther up the road, if it were to be a message that is held to be disparaging and agitating to the ambience of the PPP’s spirits (yeah, that’s right -spirits [think liquid]), the odds are that confounded billboard would be history

Crime of crimes, if it were to be proven to have the fingerprints of the PNC, or those suspected to be part of the developingpolitical opposition, then it is sure to be wrestled all the way past the apex court,theCCJ. IthinktheLondon Privy Council would have to be awakened from its slumber and galvanised into action. Bharrat Jagdeo would be the driving force behindsuchmovements.

Ladies and gentlemen of Guyana, comrades all, this would be the real Jagdeo in action When it is political, it is of paramount importance. When it involves Exxon, however, Jagdeo professes to be lame and lost, a nowhere man, a washed-up creature.

This is a head of state pretending to be headless and stateless: the people at Exxon pay for the billboard, so it must be permitted to reign supreme over Guyana’s skyline, over the consciousnessofGuyanese.

Thereisaneasywayoutofthis predicamentforMr orDr Jagdeo The next time that there is a cocktail or corporate gathering where Alistair Routledge is in attendance,heshouldshoutinfront of all the invited guests: yo bro, when are those goddamned billboardsgoingtoberemoved?

Those billboards go or be preparedtogo Theequivalentof that, or worse, has been delivered to those Guyanese who have gotteninhisway

Conscientious objectors have come in for repeated tastes of the Jagdeo treatment I can make sworn statements to support that contention. Evenwomenhavenot been spared the sharp pangs of Jagdeo’s fury Hell, hath no fury like an enraged Bharrat Jagdeo. One wonders whether the little onesarenext.

So there, what is so exceptional about the white man from America that he has to be

given immunity for his deceptive billboard? Italwaysperplexesme thatheissopleasedwithhimselfto be seen as infantile where matters ofExxonareconcerned.

Guyana’s Guardians of Democracy should take those billboards and make them into skateboards or firewood to ease thecost-of-livingstresses.

To close this out, if Jagdeo is so timid and placid about these diabolically clever billboards of Exxon, then it should no longer come as a surprise that he is so cowardly about that fiendish 2016 oilcontractofExxon.

The people who are behind thatcontractshouldbeconsidered primecandidatesforhoistingaloft inthepublicsquare,withabonfire nearby to commemorate their handiwork. Don’t look for Jagdeo toleadthatposse.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper )

Opposition

says better screening policy could have prevented Chickenpox outbreak at Lusignan Prison

Opposition Shadow Health Minister, Dr. Karen

Opposition Shadow Minister of Health, Dr Karen Cummings on Tuesday said that the Chickenpox outbreak at the Lusignan Prison located on the East Coast Demerara (ECD) could have been prevented had better screening policiesbeeninplace.

“Thecoalitionconfidentlyexpressesthatthereshouldhave beenbetterscreeningpoliciesandtoolstoindicateevidenceof varicellaimmunityespeciallyforincominginmateswhoarein thecareoftheState”,Cummingssaidinapressstatement.She added, “Special attention should also have been paid to the staffmembersandtheinmateswhoaresusceptibleandarein close quarters where transmission and spread of the disease couldeasilyoccur”

Cummings pointed out that 130 million dollars was approvedbyparliamentariansinthe2024budgettoimprovethe operations and efficiency at the prisons but notwithstanding thesesubstantialoutlaystherecontinuestobeanincreaseinthe incidence of Chickenpox” “It has been noted with worry that thereare25activecasesand28casesinrecovery”Cummings saidwhileadding“theAPNU/AFCCoalitionbelievesthatthis is a clear signal of the lack of competence of the PPP/C Government and its disinterest in the wellbeing of the Guyanesepeoplefromallwalksoflife.”

“Itisimperativethattherebebettercoordinationbetweenthe MinistryofPublicHealthandtheMinisterofHomeAffairsto combattheincidenceandreducetheimpactofthisinfectiousand anyotherre-emergingdiseases”,Cummingsadded

Shesaidtoothatvalianteffortsmustbemadetoisolatethe patientsorrathersusceptiblepersons,todisinfectcontaminated surfaces, quarantine infected persons, protect workers, investigatethesourceofinfection,andavoidovercrowding

Thesemeasuresareveryimportant,Cummingssaidwhile warning that if not adhered to, it can result serious consequencesespeciallyifitpreventsremandedinmatesfrom attending their court cases. On Friday the Guyana Prison Service said that the outbreak was under controlled and that infected individuals were quarantined. The prison service saidtoothatitistakingstepstoidentifythesourceofcontact that might have caused the outbreak and has implemented measurestopreventitfromspreadingfurther

Those measures include; administration of medication such asAcyclovir and Calamine Lotion, increased sanitation frequency, carried out three times daily, sunning out of mattresses and clothing, sterilisation of eating utensils and personal items, vaccination protocols and daily medical assessments.

Motorcyclistkilledafter failingtostopatintersection

A 34-year-old man of C- Field Sophia, Greater GeorgetowndiedonTuesdaymorningafteraminibushithim offhisbikeattheBrickdamandBrummelPlaceintersection.

DeadisNigelHarvey Harveywasstruckbya70-year-old manofLodgeHousingSchemeatabout06:35h.

According to police mini-bus BWW 693 was heading north along Brummel Place while Harvey was riding west along Brickdam. The traffic light stationed there was reportedly not working at the time and both Harvey and the minibus driver failed to stop when approaching the intersectioncausingthedeadlycollision.

The motorcyclist was flung into the air and sustained severeheadinjuriesafterlandingontheroad. Anambulance wassummonedandhewaspickedupinanunconsciousstate and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)wherehewaspronounceddeadonarrival.

FrancetoopenembassyinGeorgetown

France will open an embassy in Georgetown, the country assured on Monday when its Foreign Affairs Minister Stéphane Séjourné metwithPresidentIrfaanAli atStateHouse

In a joint statement following the meeting, the two countries stated that given the desire to forge closer links as neighbouring countries and friends, “Guyana and France have decided to write a new chapter in their history by openingaFrenchEmbassyin Georgetown in 2025 France will be the first EU country with this level of diplomatic representation in Guyana,” thestatementread According to the statement, the opening of a French Embassy will boost the development of cooperation in various sectors, including the economy,inpriorityareasfor Guyana where French companies hold renowned expertise “Thisembassywill also contribute to strengthening ties between Guyana and French Guiana, as well as French relations with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which is headquartered in Georgetown,” the statement added.

“The Government of Guyana looks forward to the establishmentoftheembassy

which signals the benefits of the economic transformation being experienced by the nation and the interest of France in developing its relations with the Caribbean region The Government of the French Republic welcomestheopeningofthis Embassy, which will help strengthen the integration of ouroverseasterritoriesinthe region and illustrates its ambition to consolidate the universal character of its diplomaticnetwork”

According to the statement, Ali and Séjourné took the opportunity to exchange views on several priority issues engaging the attention of the international community France and Guyana share the same commitment to democratic values and respect for international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States Both of our countries are fully engaged in peacekeeping initiatives

Additionally, the two countries are keen to strengthen cooperation to ensure the security and stabilityoftheGuianaShield and combat organized crime in the region They are also engaged in efforts to tackle climate-related issues and protectAmazonia,whichisa priority for both countries,

Venezuelanbeats, robs landlord

given their connection to the Amazon region The two countriesagreedtoestablisha Joint Working Group to identify priorities to deepen cooperation in the following areas: defence, climate change, food security, infrastructure, technology and tourism As part of the o n g o i n g s e c u r i t y cooperation, on March 25, 2024 Guyana announced the acquisitionofmaritimepatrol assets from France This is a further illustration of the commitmentofthetwosides to strengthen the bilateral relationship

In

Guyanese protest Bill Clinton’s visit for role played in destabilizing Haiti

Civil society activists gathered outside the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on Tuesday to publicly register their disapproval of Former US President Bill Clinton’s visittoGuyana Clinton is on his first official visit to the country However,thevisitismuchto thedisapprovalofsectionsof civil society including members of Red Thread and the Haiti Support Group (Guyana)

The protestors gathered outside the ACCC to note their concerns over Clinton’s visitaswellaspresenceofthe Ambassador of the DominicanRepublic,Ernesto Torres-Pereyra

In a statement issued by

the Haiti Support Group (Guyana) the activists said, “We picket to demonstrate solidarity with the people of Haiti and their right to self determination, free movement, and national sovereignty”

The statement continued: “We picket to denounce the racist and discriminatory policies of the Dominican RepublicagainstHaitians,as well as the Government of Guyana’s violation of the Treaty of Chaguaramas with regard to Haitians’ right of free movement throughout the Caribbean Today [yesterday]’s picket is also against former US President Bill Clinton for his role in contributing to the c o r r u p t i o n a n d destabilizationofHaiti.”

The group noted that as President of the United States, Mr Clinton forced Haiti to drop tariffs on imported American rice, providing farmers from his homestateofArkansaswitha lucrativemarketfortheircrop but destroying the local Haitianricefarmingsector

The support group explained that Haiti is now one of the main importers of American rice- which has been found to contain unhealthy levels of arsenic and cadmium, heavy metals that can increase risks of cancer and heart disease, accordingtoarecentstudyby theUniversityofMichigan

“ It shows a clear prioritizing of business and friends and family politics over respecting a nation’s sovereignty and the lives of its citizens; this is not something we want or need more of here in Guyana,” CharleneWilkinsonof Haiti Support Group told Kaieteur Newswhileonthepicketline

Similarly, Guyanese

activist Danuta Radzik who was also on the picket line said that the Clintons have had a very bad record in relationtoHaiti

“This has to do with the level of corruption... The Clinton Foundation has also been accused of widespread c o r r u p t i o n a n d disempowermentoftheHaitian peoplefortheirroleinprojects such as the Caracol Industrial Park which displaced over threehundredHaitianfamilies and prioritized profit and cheap labor for multinational companies instead of p r o v i d i n g p r o p e r employment and a living wage for Haitian workers,” Radzikexplained

Meanwhile, the group explained in the statement that beyond his tenure in the White House, Clinton continued to demonstrate his disrespect and disregard for Haitiansovereigntyandlives andhisprioritizationofprofit over people in his role as chairmanoftheInterimHaiti Recovery Commission

(IHRC), set up after the devastating 2010 earthquake toprovideaidandassistance totheHaitianpeople.

The group explained that “Lessthan1%ofthebillions of dollars collected by the IHRC went to Haitian businesses and Haitian nongovernmental organizations; most of the money went to international aid agencies, international NGOs and forprofit businesses Less than 10%ofthefundswenttothe Haitiangovernment

“We will continue to express solidarity with the people of Haiti as their struggle for selfdetermination and recognition of their rights is one that resonates with us as Indigenous and descendants of formerly enslaved and indenturedpersons Westand against business and economic policies which prioritize profit over people, rights,andjustice,especially when championed by persons and institutions that espouse racist ideology and

disregardforhumanrights.”

Further,thesupportgroup said that it desires a united Caribbean where “our Haitiancousinscanenjoyfree movement throughout the region, without fear of discrimination, persecution, or forced deportation, where their rights are equally upheld, their lives and livelihoods safeguarded, and their national sovereignty respectedbyforeignforces”

Added to this, the local rights body pointed out too thattheDominicanRepublic (DR)conveneroftheUnited Caribbean Forum and neighbour of Haiti- has, for decades, systematically discriminated against Haitians.

“TheDRhasenactedand maintained a policy of denying the right to nationality to persons of Haitiandescent,inanattempt to intimidate and expel Haitians and Dominicans of Haitian descent,” the body said condemning the actions oftheDR

Dominican Republic a critical partner in bridging development gaps in Guyana - President Ali

Guyanaispresentlynotwhereit shouldbeonthedevelopmentfront butthecountryisbuildingstrategic partnershipstobridgethosegaps.

The Dominican Republic (DR) forexampleisoneofthecountry’s key partners in this regard according to President Irfaan Ali. The Head of State made these remarks at the United Caribbean Forum(UCF)onTuesday,hostedat the Arthur Chung Conference Centre,Liliendaal,Georgetown.

Theone-dayUCFwasorganized by the Dominican Republic Chamber of Commerce in Guyana Itwasgearedtowardsstrengthening partnership and investment opportunitieswithintheregion

PresidentAliduringtheForum said there is an existing technological, human resource, services, bureaucracy, capability and capacity gaps in Guyana. He was participating in a panel discussion at the time, moderated by the Dominican Republic Ambassador to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra. Also on the panel wasformerPresidentoftheUnited States, William Jefferson (Bill) Clinton.

President Ali was specifically askedtocommentontheimpactthe relationship between DR and GuyanacanhaveintheCaribbean.

To this end the President

explained, “We must first position where Guyana is today as against where the DR is and where we wouldlikeGuyanatobeinthenext 10 years and the next 15 years. Definitelywewillallagreethatwe are not where we should be when you measure us against the global scale. What do I mean? There is definitely a gap where we are and where the best in the world is today.”

Theexistinggaps,accordingto the President, are not only

reflective of the government, but theprivatesectoraswell.

“It is for this reason we are adopting an approach of building tomorrow today we have acknowledged that there are gaps but we have also acknowledged thatwedon’thavethetimetowork in a straight line manner to bridge those gaps. So we are applying worldclasstechnology,worldclass methods, best practices globally that exist not today, that exit for tomorrow, we are applying that

todaysothatwewillreducethelag time through which Guyana will catch up with the rest of the world and more importantly, take a lead positiononmanyissuesanditisfor this reason, we see the DR as a critical partner in bridging this gap,”hetoldtheUnitedCaribbean Forum.

Guyana is looking to partner with the Dominican Republic on tourism and building the capacity of the private sector and agriculture.

Meanwhile, former President Clinton in remarks at the Forum said he hopes the partnership between Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), the private sectorandbetweenGuyanaandthe DRisjustthetipoftheicebergand would give life to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and to any other organizations in the Region.

Hesaid,“IfIormyfoundation, the Clinton Global Initiative can help,wewannahelp.Ifwecanoffer you a forum in New York during UN week to get the message out aboutwhoyouare,whatyoustand for and what you are trying to do and the unity you are trying to build,wewannadothat.”

Clintonadded,“Ihavebelieved for a long time that the Americas needtoworkmorecloselytogether andthatinmanywaysthesmallest countries by population are the most successful where economies of scale are not as important as personal contacts and personal responsibility but it’s hard to raise the capital to take all the smaller countries forward together so you havethiscuriousdilemmawherein theorythesmallestcountriescanbe the most successful at anything simply because there’s more personalcontactbutit’shardtoget peoplesometimestoinvest...”

CARICOM-Japanconsultationmarks30thanniversary

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) - Japan Friendship marks its 30th anniversary this year, a statement from the CARICOMSecretariatonTuesday said.

According to CARICOM, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretary-General, Dr CarlaBarnettconcludedatwoday visit to Japan where she met with high-level government officials and participated in the launch of the CARICOM-Japan Friendship Year 2024, and JUNTOS, Japan-CARICOM Exchange Programme for Young Diplomats.

This year 2024 was designated CARICOM-Japan FriendshipYear tomarkthe30thanniversaryofthe first Japan-CARICOM Consultation, and the 60th anniversaryoftheestablishmentof diplomaticrelationsbetweenJapan and Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago,respectively

The inaugural JapanCARICOM Friendship Year was celebratedin2014tomarkthe20th anniversary of the first JapanCARICOM Consultation. Several high-profile events were held that year including the first CARICOM-Japan Summit in Trinidad and Tobago. The summit was attended by the late Prime Minister of Japan, H.E. Shinzo Abe, the first Japanese Prime MinistertovisittheRegion.

Speaking at the reception in Tokyo on March 26, Dr Barnett said Japan has remained an important partner for the Community since they established formal diplomatic relations in 1993.

“We attach great value to the enduring bonds of friendship that have been forged over the years. Our partnership is built on a foundation of mutual respect, sharedvalues,andagenuinedesire tocollaborateforthebenefitofour peoples,” the Secretary-General said.

Japan’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Her Excellency Yoko Kamikawa stated that Japan and CARICOMcountriesareimportant

partners, sharing values and principles in an international situationwherecooperationamong such countries is becoming more importantthanever

According to the CARICOM Secretariat, to date, CARICOM and Japan have had a Heads of Government summit, seven Ministerial meetings, and 19 Consultations between senior officialsonthetwosides.

The Secretary-General noted their technical cooperation which redounds to critical support to CARICOM in small and mediumsized enterprises, agriculture and fisheries, information technology, environmental conservation, disaster management, climate

change, energy, culture and tourism She also highlighted CARICOM-Japan cooperation at themultilaterallevel,stating: “While the focus of

CARICOM-Japan relations has primarily been on technical cooperation, through the

CARICOM-Japan Friendship and CooperationFund(JCFCF)andthe Japan International Cooperation Agency(JICA),therehasalsobeen collaboration and support at the multilateral level. In this regard, I extendappreciationtoJapanforits supporttotheCommunityoverthe yearsonthevulnerabilityofSmall Island and Low-lying Coastal Developing States (SIDS). Your leadership in recognising

vulnerability as an important criterionforconcessionalfinancing and moving away from GDP per capita as the only standard, has beenmuchwelcomed,”shesaid.

AtthelauncheventonTuesday, Dr Barnett also highlighted the cultural and skills exchange programmes which form significant elements of

CARICOM-Japanrelations.

“The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme, the Scholarship Programme for Research Students and the CARICOM-Japan Young Diplomats Exchange are examples ofpeople-to-peopleexchangesthat strengthenrelationsatalllevels.

Continued on page 24

Three Rupununi children drown in ‘fish pond’

ThreechildrendrownedonTuesdayafter reportedly swimming in a ‘fish pond’ at Massara Village, North Rupununi, Region Nine.

The children have been identified as Michelle Jeffrey, a Grade One student; Nia Jeffrey, a Grade Two student; and Alicia Jeffrey, a Grade Four student. The children, allgirlsareaged5,6and8.

Reports are that Michelle andAlicia are sistersandNiaistheircousin.

CommanderofRegionalPoliceDivision

#9,SeniorSuperintendentRaphaelRose,has confirmedthetragedy

Up press time, ranks were still in the remote village conducting investigations. The Commander said that he is awaiting additionaldetailsonthedrowning.

ReportsreachingKaieteurNewsarethat the children were swimming when they suddenly went under the water and failed to resurface.

Theirbodieswerelaterretrievedfromthe river

Judges can be removed for delays in writing decisions –Attorney General

Attorney General (AG), Anil Nandlall, SC has warnedthatdelaysinjudges writing their decisions can result in removal from the bench or termination of service.

Speaking on his programme, ‘Issues in the News,’ Nandlall noted that allegations are being made that judges are not writing decisionsontime.

“As a politician, I walk one end of this country to another, and whichever communityIgo,Imeetwith persons who raise with me their case or cases that are pendinginthesystemherein Guyana, (complaining) that the matters are not being heard and determined quickly Specifically, allegationshavebeenandare being made that the judges arenotwritingtheirdecisions intime,”Nandlallstated

Theissueisbeingraised in wake of similar complaints being lodged by the Bar Association of Barbados against judges in that country The AG noted that in Guyana delays with writing judicial decisions has become chronic issue.

“Barbados has it in its constitution, but we have a legislation that mandates judges to write decisions after hearing submissions and arguments in a case within a prescribed time. That prescribed time is four months,or120days;orlet’s even says six months,” Nandlallsaid.

He continued “Time

limits for judges to issue writtendecisionsarelaidout in the Time Limit for Judicial Decisions Act [2009].”

Nandlall stressed that

Article 197 (3) of Guyana’s Constitutionstates,“AJudge may be removed from office only for inability to perform thefunctionsofhis/heroffice whether arising from infirmityofmindorbody orforpersistentlynotwriting decisionsorforcontinuously failing to give decisions and reasonsthereforewithinsuch time as may be specified by Parliament”

“This law,” theAttorney Generalsaidhasbeenpassed nearly15yearsnow,anditis not being complied with.

“Now, I know there have beenshortagesofjudgesand there have been many reasons and issues affecting the Judiciary; but there is a law, and this law must be complied with. Every other person in the country is expectedtocomplywiththe

Five bikers died in three days

Dead: Karan Dhuman

Dead: Conal Anthony Husbands Dead: Dinesh Williams

Five motorcyclists, two of whom were teenagers,losttheirliveswithinthelastthree days due to accidents on the country’s roadways.

OnSunday,atabout07:30hrs,26-year-old Dinesh Williams died after he lost control of his bike and rode in a trench along Hibernia BackStreet,EssequiboCoast,RegionTwo.

Reports stated that he was on his way home,whenhelostcontrolofhismotorcycle asheapproachedaturninthestreet.Theman waspinnedinthewater Itisbelievedthathe drowned.

OnMonday,around01:50hrs,17-year-old KaranDhuman,lostcontrolofhismotorcycle along the Bush Lot Farm Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice, and crashed into a GuyanaPowerandLight(GPL)utilitypole.

According to police, the speeding motorcyclist was proceeding west along the southern drive lane on the Bush Lot Farm Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice, when the driver lost control of his motorcycle and collided with a GPL utility pole, situated on thesoutherngrassparapet.

Duetotheimpact,Dhumanwastossedoff hismotorcycleandfellontotheroad.

He received injuries about his body He was subsequently picked up by police and public-spirited citizens in an unconscious condition, and taken to the Port Mourant Public Hospital. Dhuman was pronounced deadonarrivalatthehospital.

drive lane of Church Street, when as both vehicles approached the intersection of Cummings and Church Street, Motorcar # PAF 3166 failed to stop at the stop sign and collidedwiththemotorcycle.”

Both vehicles sustained damage from the impact of the collision and the motorcyclist was flung some distance on the northern parapetofChurchStreetandreceivedinjuries abouthisbody

ThemanwaspickedupbyEMTpersonnel in a semi-conscious condition and rushed to the GPHC, where he was examined by the doctors on duty At about 13:00hrs, he succumbedtohisinjuries.

Meanwhile,onTuesday34-year-oldNigel Harvey,aresidentofLot731CFieldSophia, Georgetown,losthislifeafterthemotorcycle he was riding collided with a bus. Both vehicles failed to stop at the intersection of BrickdamandBrummelPlace,wherethereis a traffic light erected. At the time of the accident,thetrafficlightwasnotworking.

The accident occurred at about 06:35hrs, policesaidwhilenotingthatitinvolvedminibus#BWW693ownedanddrivenby70-yearold Keith Texeira-Livingstone, and motorcycle #CL 8444 owned and driven by Harvey Investigationsareinprogress.

In February, Kaieteur News reported that Guyana recorded a 76.8% increase in road fatalitiesin 2023, with the toll rising from 99 in2022toastaggering175.

laws of this land The executive is held to comply withthelaw,everyagencyof state is enjoined to obey the law, no agency is above the law,” Nandlall said. To this end,theAGstressedthatno one in Guyana, even the Judiciary,isabovethelaw

“No agency is above the law That is the essence of whatwecalltheruleoflaw In Guyana also, like Barbados, our constitution provides that a judge can be removed from office for not writingdecisionsinatimely manner.”

“Parliamenthaspasseda law prescribing the time withinwhichdecisionsmust be written by judicial officers. That law is not being complied with. Like Barbados, Guyana has a bar association.Wearegoingto havemorejudgesappointed, and there will be an expectation that the law in relation to (timely) writing ofdecisionswillbeobeyed,” theAGemphasized.

Also on Monday, between 03:40hrs and 06:00hrs, 18-year-old Azeez Gulab met his demise,whenhelostcontrolofhismotorcycle at Wowetta Main Trail, North Rupununi, RegionNine.

The father of the decease alleged that his son(Gulab)wasatAranaputaGround,liming with his friends as they watched football and drankalcohol.

Thefatherclaimedthathissonthenleftthe ground at about 03:00hrs on his motorcycle, proceeding east along the northern side of WowettaTrail at an alleged fast rate when he lostcontrolofthemotorcycleand‘ranoff’the Trail.Intheprocess,hefelloffhismotorcycle andreceivedinjuriesonhisbody

Thenoiseawokethenearbyvillagerswho discoveredhismotionlessbodylyingnexttoa motorcycle.

ConalAnthonyHusbandsalsolosthislife on Monday around 06:15hrs after the motorcycle he was riding collided with a car, at the intersection of Cummings and Church Streets,Georgetown.

ThemotorcarwhichisownedbyEzraleen McLean was at the time being driven by Lee LawrenceHolderwhileHusbandswasriding themotorcycle.

Police said that, “investigations revealed that Motorcar # PAF 3166 was proceeding north along the western drive lane of Cummings Street while Motorcycle # CM 2986 was proceeding east along the northern

The surge has prompted urgent action from the Minister of HomeAffairs, Robeson Benn, who is calling on citizens to exercise cautionandprioritisesafetyontheroadways.

“Wehavehadthesituationwithtrafficand we have had an alarming increase in road traffic deaths,” Benn told reporters at a press conference.

Addressing the rise in fatal accidents, the minister stated that the primary contributing factor identified was speeding, with a 110% increaseinfatalities,risingfrom61in2022to 128 last year Minister Benn announced that thegovernmentissettointroducee-ticketing fortrafficviolationstocurbdangerousdriving behaviours.

“Wehavebeengivingandwehavetogive out again helmets to motorcyclists. We have gottenjustnowalargenumberofclampsand we have to deal with people who are speeding,”Bennasserted.

A detailed analysis of the data reveals severaltroublingtrends.Maledriversborethe brunt of the increase, experiencing a 79.2% rise in fatalities, while female fatalities increased by 64.7%. The age group most affected was 25-42 years old, comprising 43.4% of all fatalities. Additionally, fatal accidents involving motorcyclists saw a dramatic 166.7% increase. In an effort to address the rising road safety concerns, comprehensive driver education and training programmeswillbeimplemented.

AGurgesIPUAssemblytocondemnGaza,Venezuela's transgressions

DPI - Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall SC, has urged the 148th InterParliamentary Union Assembly to use their platform to condemn injustice and transgressions against democracy and the ruleoflaw

Speaking at the conference held in Geneva, Switzerland, Minister Nandlall underscored the abilityoftheIPUtoserveas anagentofchange,andakey instrument in the promotion of lasting peace and understanding.

However, the Guyanese Attorney General bemoaned that the conference had failed to streamline its energies to condemn the horror unfolding in Gaza, and Venezuela's lack of democracy

“These horrendous events, although occurring on opposite sides of the globe, together manifest the deadly havoc that armed conflicts wreaks and the social disorder and human

sufferingsthattheabsenceof democracy produces,” the ministersaid.

Guyana has been consistent in its calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, and for global condemnation of the acts of violence meted out against the people of Palestine.

AGNandlallpointedout, “More than 30,000 are dead inGaza.Nearlyeightmillion refugees have fled Venezuela.”

The minister's appeal was further fuelled by Venezuela's unilateral declaration of Essequibo as itsstate,indirectviolationof the Argyle Declaration, whichdeclared,amongother things,thatthetwocountries will desist from any actions thatexacerbatetheterritorial controversy

The controversy surroundingtheterritorywas settled through an Arbitral Award in 1899, which both countries agreed to and accepted.

However, when Guyana was on the verge of gaining

itsindependencefromGreat Britain in the early 1960s, Venezuela's claims to twothirds of its territory resurged.

“Itcontinuestomakethis outrageous claim to date withoutproducingascintilla of evidenceto substantiate,” theAGtoldtheIPU.

The matter was eventually taken to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where it currentlyawaitsaruling.

I n y e t a n o t h e r expansionist move, Venezuela has threatened physical invasion and in December 2023 moved a

referendum to annex twothirdsofGuyana'ssovereign territory

The ICJ has issued interimmeasuresrestraining Venezuela from taking furtherstepsinthisregard.

“I appeal to each of you to use the theme of this Conferenceandtheplatform of your respective Parliaments to condemn the actions of Venezuela; to demand compliance with International Law; and to callfordiplomacytobeused as a bridge for peace and understanding,” Minister Nandlallencouraged.

He continued, “This is

notafavourtoGuyana,butit isdischargingadutyweowe to ourselves and indeed the world if we are to be true to the founding principles of thisorganisation.”

I n t e r n a t i o n a l organisations including the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), the Commonwealth, the Organization of American States (OAS), and the Caribbean Community ( C A R I C O M ) h a v e condemned Venezuela's actions, and called on the country to comply with internationallaw, Many governments,

including the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Brazil, and those of the Caribbean Region have issuedsimilarstatements.

The Assembly is held u n d e r t h e t h e m e

“Parliamentary Diplomacy: Building Bridges for Peace andUnderstanding”.

The Guyana delegation also includes Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, Minister of Local Government, Sonia Parag,MP,DawnHastingof the Parliamentary Opposition, APNU-AFC andSherlockIsaacs,Clerkof theNationalAssembly

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UN expert accuses Israel of ‘genocide’ in Gaza

Albanese says there are clear indications that Israel has violated three of five acts listed under UN Genocide Convention

Aljazeera - There are “reasonable grounds” to believe Israel is committing genocide in the besieged Palestinian enclave of the Gaza Strip, according to a report issued by a United Nations-appointed expert.

In the report, issued late

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on Monday, the UN Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese said there are clear indications that Israel has violated three of the five acts listed under the UN Genocide Convention.

Albanese, appointed by the UN Human Rights Council but not an official voice on behalf of the United Nations, said she had found “reasonable grounds to believe that the threshold indicating the commission of … acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza has been met”.

“The overwhelming nature and scale of Israel’s assault on Gaza and the destructive conditions of life it has inflicted reveal an intent to physically destroy Palestinians as a group,” she said.

The report was immediately rejected by Israel as an “obscene inversion of reality”.

Entitled Anatomy of a Genocide, the report listed the violating acts as: “killing members of the group; causing serious bodily or mental harm to the group’s members; and deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part”.

Albanese noted that Israel has killed more than 30,000 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7. A further 12,000 are reported missing, presumed dead under the rubble.

More than 70 percent of the recorded deaths have been women and children and Israel has failed to prove that the remaining 30 percent –adult males – were active Hamas fighters, she said.

Regarding the second violated act, Albanese said Israeli forces have wounded more than 70,000 Palestinians and detained thousands of Palestinian men and boys, subjecting them to torture and mistreatment.

On the third act, Albanese said Israel has destroyed or severely damaged most of Gaza’s life-sustaining infrastructure, including hospitals and agricultural land.

“The incalculable collective trauma will be experienced for generations to come,” Albanese said in a statement.

“Israel’s genocide of Palestinians in Gaza is an escalatory stage of a long-standing settler colonial process of erasure,” Albanese said.

Additionally, calls for “violent annihilation” from Israeli high-ranking officials aimed at soldiers on duty on the ground serve as “compelling evidence of explicit and public encouragement to commit genocide,” Albanese added.

‘Outrageous accusations’

Israel’s diplomatic mission in Geneva said the country “utterly rejects the report”, describing it as “simply an extension of a campaign seeking to undermine the very es-

tablishment of the Jewish State”.

“Israel’s war is against Hamas, not against Palestinian civilians,” it said in a statement, slamming Albanese’s “outrageous accusations”.

Hamas fighters attacked southern Israel on October 7, during which about 1,200 people were killed. The armed Palestinian group also seized about 250 hostages, of whom Israel believes approximately 130 remain in Gaza, including 33 presumed dead.

A US official told AFP that Washington is “aware” of the report but has “no reason to believe Israel has committed acts of genocide in Gaza”.

The US insisted on Monday that it had no evidence Israel has violated human rights and that its ally has offered assurances that it has not used weapons it has donated to violate international humanitarian law.

In her statement, Albanese insisted that Israel’s “genocide of Palestinians” in Gaza is an escalatory stage of a “long-standing settler colonial process of erasure”.

She called for the “ongoing Nakba” to stop, referring to the ethnic cleansing of Palestine when Zionist militias expelled more than 750,000 Palestinians from their villages, destroying homes and killing thousands.

The events were followed by the creation of the state of Israel in 1948.

‘They scream in hunger’-HowIsraelis

starvingGaza

For three days, Al Jazeera followed three families in Gaza to document how they are coping with hardly any food

Aljazeera-MaysoonalNabahin squeezes out the last bit of cartoned cheese ontoafreshlybakedpieceof bread,knowingitwillbethe onlythingherfamilyofeight willeatthatday

Umm Muhammed, as she's known, fled from a school in Bureij where she, together with her husband and six children, were shelteringafterIsraeliforces destroyed their home in east BureijincentralGaza.

The 45-year-old now lives in the crowd of tents around Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir el-Balah further south. She's a petite woman,herfaceetchedwith worry,lookingolderthanher years.

In the centre of their plastic makeshift tent is a small fire where Umm Muhammed is making flatbread on a woodfire saj oven. She's surrounded by a few neatly arranged backpacks containing the belongings her family managedtobring,aswellas a pile of blankets, now cleared away to make space fortheirdaytimeliving.

'Bread and cartoned cheese'

“[We are eating] the same thing, canned food, cartoned cream cheese and fava beans. We heat them over the fire to eat. Sugar usedtobeavailablebutnow ithasbecomeexpensive.We maketeawithdukkah[atype of dried herb] or thyme… it m a k e s d o , ” U m m Muhammed tells Al Jazeera under the buzzing sound of Israelidronesabove.

There is no fresh food. Onlycansandcartons.

And it is not enough for everyone.

Likemanyparentsacross Gaza,UmmMuhammedand herhusbandoftengohungry toensuretheirchildrenhave somethingtoeat.Mostofher children are young and in theirdevelopmentstages.

Many times we go hungry, the children must eat.

“Thesweetsandbiscuits that were distributed [by aid agencies],whenthechildren ate it, they immediately had diarrhoea. There isn't space orwatertobathe,orgotothe bathroominprivacyorclean the little children when they have diarrhoea, ” she laments.

Despitehowdifficultlife

is, Umm Muhammed has a sense of gratitude. Her childrenaskherforthingsto eatorfoodtheymiss,butshe says they have adapted Whetherfoodorgoingtothe bathroom,theyhavefounda waytosurvive.

Forthreedays,beforethe Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, Al Jazeera followed the al-Nabahin family, recording their daily foodintaketodocumenthow they, like many other families in Gaza, are

Muhammedlaughs.

Day3

On the third day, Umm Muhammed managed to cook up a dish of canned luncheon meat with a chopped-uptomatothatthey got on a World Food Programme (WFP) aid coupon.The last time Umm Muhammedpreparedameal forherfamilywaswhenthey werestillathome.

“You want a dish with sauceonthesidebutthereis no sauce here. You want

hunger'

Also living under an overflowing plastic sheetcoveredtentinDeirel-Balah arethe15membersofthealMasryfamily

ThereisnofoodinthealMasrytent.

“We'vebeenherealmost amonth.Sincethen,wehave not eaten properly, and my childrenneedfood.

They scream in hunger andcrythemselvestosleep”, 45-year-old Salwa al-Masry tellsAlJazeera,quivering.

tentinDeirel-Balah.

“I'mafraidI'lldieinthe war Who will my children stay with, and who will care for them?” she says. She heartacheseverytimeoneof the children begs for food and she has nothing to give them.

Here's everything the alMasry family ate over three days.

Day1

Nofood.

Day2

After having nothing to

surviving on the bare minimum.

Day1

After having nothing to eat for breakfast, Umm Muhammed prepares some saj flatbread with cartoned creamcheesethefamilypaid 10 shekels ($2.75) to get three boxes of. That would turn out to be the only meal oftheday

Shared between eight people, the food available roughly works out to 330 calories per person, considerably lower than the daily average recommended value of at least 1,000 calories for children and around 2,000 calories for adults.

Day2

With nothing else available, the al-Nabahins ate the same saj with cheese asthedaybefore.

“Since we've been here, it'sthesamefoodeveryday We thank God for it anyway,”UmmMohammed sayswistfully

“Ihaveachildwholoves to eat... I always tell him he o v

spices, or stock cubes, or other things, but there aren't any,”shesays.

Gazafacing catastrophichunger

Israel has repeatedly blocked the delivery of aid supplies, including food, despite the International Court of Justice ruling in JanuarythatorderedIsraelto “ensurethedeliveryofbasic services and essential humanitarianaidtocivilians inGaza”.

According to a United Nations-backed report published last week, half of Gaza's population – 1 1 million people – have completely exhausted their food supplies and coping capacities and are facing “catastrophic hunger”, the highestindicatorofafamine.

“People in Gaza are starving to death right now Thespeedatwhichthismanm a d e h u n g e r a n d malnutrition crisis has ripped through Gaza is terrifying,” World Food Programme Executive DirectorCindyMcCainsaid.

'They scream i

Salwa, who also goes by Umm Mohammed, suffers from asthma and her husband has a cardiac condition Her young children plead for food, and shehasnothingtogivethem.

“Myyoungsontellsme: 'Mommy, I am hungry, I wanttoeat.'Iampatientwith himandtellhim:'Sitdown,I willgetitforyou.'”

But, she says, that is usually a lie as there is nothing she can do to help alleviatehishunger

I have sent my daughter to go and look for someone togivehersomethingtoeat. People tell them to leave, thereisnothingleft.

BY SALWA ALMASRY

Umm Mohammed says she has been to every aid centrebutallthewarehouses havebeencleanedoutsoshe returnsempty-handed.

Shehaslostconsiderable weight since she, her husband, eight daughters andfivesonsfledtheirhome in Beit Hanoon in northern Gaza to Gaza City, then to Nuseirat and finally to this

“When we were back home we used to eat, we werehappyinourlife,thank God. No one could have imagined where we would end up We've been humiliated, humiliated, humiliated,humiliated,”she repeats.

Childrendyingof malnutrition

One in three children under the age of two in northern Gaza suffer from acutemalnutritionaccording to nutrition screenings conducted by UNICEF and itspartners.

“Thespeedatwhichthis catastrophic child malnutrition crisis in Gaza has unfolded is shocking, especially when desperately needed assistance has been at the ready just a few miles away,” said Catherine Russell, UNICEF's executivedirector

“We really do not know about what is happening to other children to whom we donothaveaccess-whatwe knowandwhatwehavebeen warning about is that access to humanitarian aid and deliveryofhumanitarianaid can really reduce the proportion of malnutrition amongst children,” Adele Khodr, UNICEF regional director for the Middle East andNorthAfricasaid.

eatforbreakfastorlunch,the family managed to get hold ofthreetinsoffavabeans.

Umm Mohammed puts asidetwotins,knowingthey may not be able to get any foodtomorrow

“What should I do? If I feed them today, how will I feedthemtomorrow?Ikeep thinking, how will I provide them with food for the next day?”Thebeans,whichthey eatwithsomebread,provide a much-needed source of nourishment but even if every family member managed to eat half a cup, thatwouldstillputthemina severecaloriedeficit.

Day3

On the third day, Umm Mohammed and her daughter managed to collect a handful of mallow, a wild winterplanttheyforagedfor UmmMohammedchops up the mallow leaves into a slippery paste where she adds some hibiscus and a finelychoppedonion.Thisis the closest thing she has cometopreparingameal.

“I haven't cooked since we'vebeenhere,”shesighs.

In February, Save the Children warned that Gaza was witnessing “a mass killing of children in slow motion because there is no foodleftandnothinggetting tothem”.

Barteringolivesfor potatoes

Sanaa “Umm Hassan” AbuIssaandherfamilyof11 have also been displaced multipletimes.

In December, they fled their home in east Bureij in centralGazaaftertheIsraeli army told them they had to evacuate. On foot, they fled to a school in Bureij camp wheretheywerealsotoldto evacuate.

In search of safety, the family, along with many others, were forced to make the trek south to Deir elBalah where they were joined by Umm Hassan's pregnant daughter and her husbandwhofledtheirhome in Shujayea, one of the largest neighbourhoods in GazaCity.UmmHassanhad asmallconveniencestoreas partofasocialaffairsproject infrontofherhouse,which

(Continuedopage24)

Wednesday

'They scream in hunger’

Frompage23

hassincebeendestroyed.Theshop part of the house still stands, she tellsAlJazeeraruefully

“Onlypartoftheshopremains, because it is legitimate money, thankGod,”shesays,laughing.

They now live in a small tent, withplasticsheetwalls.

The hard earth is covered with bitsoffadedfabrictomakeaplace to sit. In one corner of the tent is a pileofworn-outblanketsandafew bags that the family managed to bringfromtheirhome.

Inanothercornerisamakeshift kitchenwithatable,ahotplate,two pots, a few pantry items and bits andpiecesofutensils.

UmmHassanexplainshowthe neighbouring tents barter food items.

“The food issue here is complex.Iaskedmybrother'swife to give me corned meat. Today, I toldherIwantedpotatoes.

She exchanged my olives for potatoes. I took the potatoes; she tooktheolivesandIsentheracup of cooking oil,” Umm Hassan explains.

Everyonehasonemeal,anditis impossibletoeatthreemeals.

BYSANAAABUISSA

“From the day we came here, it's been impossible to eat three meals. It's one meal a day”, she reiterates.

Umm Hassan has a small gas cylinder that she managed to pull out from under the rubble of her home along with a tin of olives, a bottle of red pepper, some dried chickpeas, some spices and some rice.

“Olives are an essential food, you can eat them with anything,” shelaughs.

Umm Hassan's daughter is pregnant and her due date is fast approaching. “She's lost a lot of weight”, she says, pointing to her daughter

For three days,Al Jazeera also documented what the Abu Issa familyate.

Day1

On the first day, Umm Hassan prepared some mashed potatoes, cannedluncheonmeat,olivesanda fewpiecesofflatbread.

Shared among 11 family members, each person would be lucky if they managed to eat more than 400 calories, less than half whatisneededforyoungchildren, and a fifth of what an adult would normally need to maintain their weight.

Food is very expensive. “One egg costs 2 shekels ($0.55). We crave eggs but thank God [for whatwehave],”shesays.

The price of an egg has since goneupto6shekels($1.64).

Day2

On the second day, the family shares a bowl of canned white beans, which they got using an aid coupon,alittletomatopasteadded forflavour,andsomebread.

“We make tea but without sugar Myhusbandwantedsugarin his tea, but I told him we must endure and be patient,” Umm Hassansmilesknowingly

Day3

On the third day, the Abu Issa family will eat their largest meal yet. Today's feast consists of rice and peas and some pasta with tomato sauce which they receive fromafooddistributionhospice.

Even on a good day, at around 570caloriesperperson,thisisstill around half of what a child would needperday

Nonormal-sizedbabies

“Doctorsarereportingthatthey nolongerseenormal-sizedbabies,” UNFPAofficialDominicAllentold journalists after visiting hospitals stillprovidingmaternityservicesin thenorthofGaza,wheretheneedis especiallygreat.

“What they do see though, tragically,ismorestillbornbirths... and more neonatal deaths, caused inpartbymalnutrition,dehydration andcomplications,”Allenadded.

The numbers of complicated deliveries are roughly twice what

theywerebeforethewarwithIsrael began - with mothers stressed, fearful, underfed and exhaustedand caregivers often lacking necessarysupplies.

“People are desperate for food you can understand how hard it is for a mother or a father to see their kids

starving and not be able to sustain them that is why UN agencies are pushing for more access to the north,” Noor Hammad, a communications assistant at the WFPwho oversees fooddeliveries,toldAlJazeera.

“The needs are dire and more needstobedone.”

CARICOM-Japanconsultation marks30thanniversary

Frompage17

Our cultural links continue to deepen, as signaled by the popularity of Caribbean music and our products, including rum and coffee in Japan and the growing popularity of Japanese cuisine in the Caribbean,” Dr. Barnettstated.

So far, more than 800 participants from the Region have benefited from the JUNTOS Programme. Fifteen CARICOM nationals are currently participating in the programme in Japanfrom21–29March.

The programme includes the dispatch of Japanese professionals to CARICOM Member States and CARICOM Institutions and provides opportunities for young professionals to learn about the

Japanese economy, foreign policy, culture,andenvironmentalpolicy

CARICOMnationalshavealso participatedintheJapanExchange and Teaching (JET) Programme through which CARICOM nationals teach in Japanese schools.

CARICOM Assistant Secretary-General for Foreign and Community Relations, Ms. Elizabeth Solomon accompanied the Secretary-General to Japan. Theyalso met with government officials including the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Her Excellency Yôko Kamikawa; the Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Tsuge Yoshifumi and senior officials from other state agencies

CWIPresidentDr.KishoreShallow,addressesthe outcomeofAGMGovernanceReformResolutions

ST. JOHN'S, Antigua - In a pivotal moment at the Annual General Meeting (AGM)ofCricketWestIndies(CWI)heldin Antigua on Saturday 23 March 2023, PresidentDr KishoreShallowtabledaseries of resolutions aimed at implementing governance reforms recommended by the Wehby Report. However, despite extensive consultations and deliberations, some of the resolutions failed to secure the absolute majoritythresholdrequiredforpassage.

President Shallow expressed optimism despite the setback, stating, "While it is disappointing that some resolutions did not find favor with majority on this occasion, I remain committed to ensuring that CWI governance structure is always at its most robust. We will return to consultation with our shareholders to sensitize and advocate further for adopting modern corporate best practices."

Theresolutionstabledwerederivedfrom the Wehby Report, a comprehensive document that followed a period of

significant consultations within the cricketing community President Shallow emphasizedtheimportanceofthesereforms in advancing the integrity and effectiveness ofCWI.

"We have engaged in thorough consultations and discussions to formulate these resolutions, all to strengthen the governance structure of CWI," remarked President Shallow "It is imperative that we continueoureffortstoenactthesereformsfor thebettermentofWestIndiescricket."

PresidentShallowaffirmedhisresolveto fostering positive change within CWI. He echoed, "Our effort toward improvement on allfrontscontinuesunabated.Wewillengage rigorouslywithourstakeholders,leveraging their insights and expertise to navigate this intricate process while re-examining CWI's governancestructure.”

The AGM attained a full quorum with shareholders present from Barbados, Guyana,Jamaica,LeewardIslands,Trinidad &Tobago,andWindwardIslands.

WednesdayMarch27,2024

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19

Some down-to-Earth conversations with a love partner could result in advancing the relationship to thenextlevelofcommitment, Aries

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

The desire to make a particular purchase could have you reworking your budget today,Taurus.This is agoodtimetodothis.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

Suddenly you seem more glamorousthanusual,Gemini You may exert a mysterious appeal that in the 1920s was called"it"

CANCER(June21–July22)

Yourvisionarytendenciesare in the ascendant today, Cancer, although they take more of a practical than mysticalbent.

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

Asapersonwhoenjoysbeing gregarious and outgoing, days like this provide a wonderful outlet for your energy Youmightspendalot oftimewithyourfamily

VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)

Corporate kudos and increased income that you may have been working toward for a long time may finallymanifesttoday,Virgo. Your effort and energy haven't gone unnoticed. What you're doing now has impressedthoseinaposition toadvanceyourinterests.

MangraandHarrytake...

Frompage33

George and Chet Bowling showcased their golfing prowess, securing the thirdplace spot with a commendable performance on the course. George and

Youngstersshine....

Frompage33 and Johnson could not avoid thevirtualloss.

Aditi Joshi placed third with6points,andCielClement andTreskoleArchibaldcamein fourth and fifth, respectively, with 5 points each. Nellisha Johnsonendedwith4.5points.

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

This is a great day to deal with legal matters of any kind, Libra, including plans forawedding,ifoneisinthe offing!

SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov.21)

Akeenabilityonyourpartto blend the worlds of intellect and intuition could well surface today, Scorpio. The ability to focus both these methodsofperception

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)

Relationships of all kinds become stronger and more enduring today, Sagittarius. Successesboostthestrengthof business partnerships; love relationships advance to the nextlevelofcommitment

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

An interest in health and nutrition could come to the surface for you New discoveries regarding the benefits of certain nutrients, exercise programs, or other forms of alternative therapy couldattractyourattention.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

Have you been thinking about taking a course in one of the arts? Whether your preference is painting, music, drama, dance, or creative writing

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

If you own your own home, Pisces, you may learn today that its value has increased substantially Ifyoudon'town a home but want to buy one, thisisthetimetostartlooking.

The top three winners in each category obtained cash prizes amounting to seventy thousand dollars The tournament was sponsored by the Guyana Chess Federation with supervision by FIDE ArbiterJohnLee.

Points were awarded to the topcontendersaccordingtothe Grand Prix system devised to obtain the top five players in the Open and Female categories,whowillparticipate in the Chess Olympiad later thisyear

Qualifying tournaments such as the Grand Prix series, the National Open Qualifiers, a n d t h e N a t i o n a l Championships determine the outcomeoftheOlympiadteam.

The federation would like to thank the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport for providing the venue of the Guyana National Stadium for thefour-daytourney

Former RHTYSC secretary...

Frompage28 developmentalprogramwould benefitthemost.

Meanwhile, the cricket teams of the club over the last week distributed over one thousand Easter kites to children across Berbice as part of their personal development programme.TheteamsPoonai Under11 and Under13, Farfan and Mendes Under15, BakewellUnder17andsecond division, Pepsi Under19 and Under23, Metro females and Namilco Thunderbolt Under21 and first division raisedthekitesviasponsorship from friends of the club and distributed them via the club network of friends including Port Mourant Hospital Therapy Unit, Whim Cricket Club, St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic church, MaranthaFaithMinistriesand the Sharon Congregational Chapel.

Bowling's consistent play and dedication to the game earnedthemawell-deserved spotonthepodium.Speaking at the end of the tournament was Robin Muneshwer, Executive Director of GYSBI who shared, “I want to commend the LGC for s u c h a w o n d e r f u l tournament We are optimisticthatthiswillbean annual tournament. Golf is a sport that should be promoted in Guyana especially with the influx of foreigners During the tournament the course looked impressive and the p l a y e r s e n j o y e d themselves.”

The success of the GYSBI and Robert Hanoman Golf Tournament would not have

been possible without the support and participation of the golfing community, organizers, and sponsors.As the Lusignan Golf Club looks forward to future events, the spirit of camaraderieandcompetition continues to flourish on the greens.

The results for the tournamentareasfollows:

1st Maxim Mangra and Bridgelall Harry- HC 8, Gross69,Net61

2nd Jaipaul Suknanan and Feroze Barkat- HC 5, Gross66,Net61

3rd Paton George and ChetBowling-HC11,Gross 72,Net61NearesttothepinChetBowling

Longest DriveParmanandPersaud

Former RHTYSC secretary donates $100,000 worth of cricket balls to club

- Hundreds of kites distributed to kids

Former secretary of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, Raymond Haniff, on Sunday last handed over one hundred thousand dollars worth of cricket balls to the cricket team Haniff, who also represented the RHTYSC at the second and first division level in its early days, also committed himself to contributing one hundred tennisballstowardtheclub's coaching programme for its under11andunder13teams.

Haniff, who is the Managing Director of Diversity Investment Inc, a company based at Lot 36 Happy Acres, ECD, stated that he would always be

grateful to the RHTYSC MS fortheroletheclubplayedin hislife.Haniffwasamember of the club second division team that won the Sydney Sabsook Memorial tournament in 1992 and JC Budhu Second Division Cup in 1994 and 1995. He also played numerous times for the club at the first division level. Haniff best bowling effortasamediumpacerwas 5for27versusBloomfield. He served as secretary of the club for several years before present secretary Hilbert Foster replaced him. Foster expressed thanks to Haniff and his company for their assistance and stated thattheballswouldbeagreat

assistance to the large membership of the club.The RHTYSC has teams at the Under11,Under13,Under15, Under17,Under19,Under21, Under23, second division, female and first division levels.

The club since its formationinSeptember1990 b y t h r e e t i m e s Commonwealth Service Awardee St. Francis Xavier YouthClubhaswonatotalof 122 cricket tournament at all levels including three national titles. The club has also produced an impressive list of 121 players who has eitherplayedforBerbiceand Guyana.

Additionally a total of

twelve RHTYSC members have played for the West Indies and the United States including Asad Fudadin, Royston Crandon, Kevin Sinclair, Shemaine Campbell, Shabika Gajnabi, Sheneta Grimmond, Erva Giddings, Dominic Ricky andAskayHomraj.

Foster also noted that the club has produced players like Esan Crandon, Delbert Hicks, Junior Sinclair, Kevlon Anderson, Jonathan Rampersaud, Matthew Pottaya, Shawn Grant, Plaffiana Millington and KemrajMahadeo.

For 2024, the RHTYSC has produced eight national players at the senior level,

Faeaaz Haniff hands over cricket balls to RHTYSC official Keith Hicks and Tyron Pottaya.

female,under15levelandhas won titles at the U11, U13, U23andfirstdivisionlevel.

Organizing secretary, Robby Kissoonlall, who is also the cricket manager of the club, expressed gratitude to Haniff and Diversity

Investment Inc for their assistance.Kissoonlallstated that the membership of the club was expanding on a daily basis and noted that coaches Winston Smith and Ry a n K i s s o o n l a l l

(Continuedonpage25)

NSC congratulates Golden Jaguars international Omari Glasgow

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has congratulated Golden Jaguars international Omari Glasgow on his historic accomplishment in being awarded the 2023–2024

CONCACAF Nations League Top Scorer and Best Young Player accolades following the conclusion of thecompetition.

Glasgow, 20, who is currently competing in the FIFASeries in SaudiArabia with the national team, registeredsevengoalsinfive matches during Guyana's unbeaten campaign in League B of the Nations League. His exploits led to Guyana qualifying for the first time in their history for theLeagueAsegmentofthe tournament.

The Chicago Fire II player becomes the first Guyanese to win a CONCACAF Nations League Top Scorer accolade and is also the first ever winner of the Best Young Player award. He is also the first player to win multiple individual awards. Glasgow, who has 14 goals in 21 appearances for the senior national setup, is poised to eclipsethenationalrecordof 18 goals in 26 outings by NigelCodrington.

In applauding Glasgow's achievements Director of

Sport Steve Ninvalle said, “TheNSC,andbyextension, the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport and GovernmentofGuyanawish to extend congratulations to Omari Glasgow for his extraordinary achievements on the international stage in the CONCACAF Nations League. His feats, though aidedbyanoverallcollective effort and responsibility, highlight what can be realised and attained in a developing and advancing sports culture and environment.”

He added, “On the individual side, his accomplishments speak to the perseverance and commitment that are hallmarks of successful athletes—elementsthathave stood the test of time as universal benchmarks. More importantly, his attainment and overall story serve as an inspiration for burgeoning talents on the possibilities thatcanbeobtainedwithina structured and conducive environment. The NSC and Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport and the government of Guyana remain committed in their unwavering support for sports development at every strataandonceagainapplaud Omari Glasgow for his historicachievements.”

CWI Women's T20 Blaze…

Jamaica bag double titles, as Guyana finish T20 Blaze on high note

- Guyanese Millington ends as leading wicket-taker

The Guyanese women capped offatremendousrunthisRegional season, as they clobbered Windwards by 69 runs during Monday's final round of CWI Women'sT20Blazetournament.

Guyana women made 131-4 after20overswithMandyMangru continuingherformwith51notout off50withfivefours.

Captain Shemaine Campbell went on an assault as she too continued her batting form, smackingsevenfoursinher47off 43.

Windwardsbowlingwasledby Pearl Etienne who grabbed 2-18 with veteran spinner Afy Fletcher grabbing 1-24. Only Zaida James (21) managed to stand tall amidst the carnage, as Windwards were knocked over for 62 inside 16 overs.

Guyana completed another ruthless bowling outing, led by

Kycia Schultz who claimed brilliantfiguresof5-14.

Other contributors for Guyana were tournament leading wickettaker Plaffiana Millington (2-7), Leg-spinnerNiyaLatchman(2-12) andCherry-AnnFraser(1-20)

Jamaica,whowontheSuper50 chip, also claimed the Blaze T20 title after an amazing run and one finalwinafterbeatingTrinidadand Tobago.

Millington ended as the tournament's leading wicket-taker with 11 scalps while Jamaican Rashada Williams ended with the most runs (183), capping off the two standout players of the competition.

Double-champs Jamaica celebrate after adding the Blaze T20 title to the Super50 championship.

Guyana's highly anticipated match versus Barbados was abandoned without a ball being bowled

yesterday, when Round one oftheCWIU15RisingStars 50-Over Championships bowledoffacrossAntigua.

Guyana will have now set sights on round two's encounter versus Trinidad and Tobago on Thursday at

Rain forced the stoppage of play in Round 1 of the

CWI U15 Rising Stars 50-Over Championships yesterday.

the Coolidge Cricket Ground, after yesterday's opening match was spoiled thanks to torrential showers which seemingly ravaged partsoftheislands.

Another match which suffered a No-result was the battle between Windward Islands and Trinidad and Tobago.

T h e Wi n d w a r d s managed to reach 83-4 in 17.2 overs before showers forced a stoppage in play; whicheventuallyresultedin thematchbeingcalledoff.

Also, Leeward Islands, who were 133-7 when rain stopped play, never got the opportunity to take the field againasofficialscalledtime on their encounter Round 2 is set for tomorrow, Thursday March 28, with J a m a i c a p l a y i n g Windward Islands while Leeward Islands battle Barbados; with action bowling off from 9:30h respectively

Home team Quiet Storm was not going to be subdued in their back yard and they did the work to emerge winners of the historic Bartica Regatta Dominoes competitiononSundaylastat the Regatta Beach Front.

In the final, Quiet Storm (84 games) defeated Providence (76 games) and Gold is Money (60 games) in that order to walk away with the top prize of $500,000, the largestfirstplaceprizeinthe history of the competition whichsawLionsending4th. Providence collected $250,000 for their first runner-uppositionwithGold is Money pocketing $125,000 and Lions, $40,000.Ms. Candia Paul of Angels Dominoes Club received $10,000 for being the first Female to share a love with Evanderous Waldron from Mahdia 'A' Dominoes Team rewarded similarly as the first male.

A total of 25 teams from around the country converged in Bartica over two days to battles for the spoilsandatthepresentation ceremony, Bartica Easter Regatta Chairman Kenneth Williams complimented the teamsforcomingtobeautiful Bartica to make the competition a high level one apart from a success “AsChairmanoftheRegatta Committee and the Region, I'dliketosaythatthiswasthe l a r g e s t d o m i n o e s competition in the history of Bartica.

I am committing to supporting these events that boostourlocaleconomyand helpstocelebrateourRegatta seasonasapremiereventthat caters for all sporting d i s c i p l i n e s

Without you being here, this would not have been the successitwas,soIextendto all you players and teams a heartfelt thank yo

Glasgow's'brace'highlightsGolden Jaguars'4-1winoverCambodia

The Golden Jaguars dominatedwitharemarkable 4-1 victory over Cambodia last night at the Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports CityinJeddah,SaudiArabia, as they kicked off their participationintheinaugural FIFASeries.

After a disappointing 0-1 loss to Cabo Verde in their opening match, Coach Jamaal Shabazz's squad returned with determination against the lower-ranked A s i a n F o o t b a l l Confederation(AFC)team.

Shabazz opted for some changes in the starting lineup from the previous match against the Blue Sharks, introducing Nathan Ferguson,KadellDaniel,and JalenJonesinplaceofDaniel Wilson, Colin Nelson, and DeonMoore.

Joiningtherankswerethe likes of the wonder-kid Omari Glasgow, Liam Gordon, Jeremy Garrett, Curtez Kellman, Leo Lovell, Captain Elliot Bonds, Stephen Duke-McKenna, and goalkeeper Quillan Roberts.

In his post-match interview, Glasgow described the match as a rehearsal for their FIFA World Cup qualification journey,andtheChicagoFire forward certainly did more

than just whet the palate of Golden Jaguars fans as he impressedwithabrace.

Guyana initially struggled against Cambodia, but Glasgow quickly shifted themomentumbyconverting abeautifulheaderinthe20th minute.

A perfectly placed cross from Daniel allowed the Concacaf Nations League topscorertodefygravityand head home his 15th internationalgoalforGuyana in his 22nd appearance for theGoldenJaguars.

Andhewasn'tdoneyet.

SiengChantheamanaged to equalize for Cambodia after winning a chase for the ball against Kellman in defence and facing Roberts one-on-one to convert his effort.However, Chanthea's moment was short-lived as Jones was fouled in the penalty area, prompting the refereetopointtothespot.

The team relied on their most in-form player, Glasgow, to take the kick, and the Beterverwagting (BV) youth made no mistakes in slotting the ball intothenet.

Glasgow's successful penalty increased his internationalgoaltallyto16, leaving him just two goals shy of tying Nigel Codrington'sall-timerecord.

Behind Glasgow, Duke-

McKenna, and Gordon, Guyana created numerous opportunities, but it was Lovell who extended their leadto3-1inthe80thminute.

After Moore's shot on goalwassavedbythekeeper, thereboundfellintothepath of Lovell, who clinically strucktheballintothenetfor hissecondinternationalgoal.

Second half, substitute Ryan Khedoo, marked his firstseniorinternationalgoal after being found by Bonds, as he controlled the ball on his chest and volleyed it home with his right foot to secure a 4-1 victory and s e a l i n g G u y a n a ' s comprehensiveperformance.

After the game, Bonds commended the team's display of capabilities and expressed satisfaction with ending their time in Saudi Arabiawithawin.

Glasgow highlighted Guyana's upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers starting on June 6 against Panama in Panama City, emphasizing their serious approach to the match against Cambodia and their commitmenttoexecutingthe coaches'strategies.

Ann's Grove and Den Amstel settle for a draw, while Fruta Conquerors defeat Monedderlust

Ann's Grove FC faced offagainstDenAmstel FC in an exciting match that ended in a 1-1 draw, whileFrutaConquerorsFCsecured a decisive 2-0 victory over Monedderlust FC in Saturday night's Season Six KFC Elite League action at the Guyana

Football Federation (GFF) National Training Centre in Providence,EastBankDemerara.

The opening moments of the March 23 game witnessed a swift goal from Ann's Grove striker Shaquan Joseph within the first four minutes, only to be answered byGideonPayneofDenAmstelin

Ann's Grove FC and Den Amstel FC played out an exciting 1-1 draw. draw

the25thminute,levellingthescore.

Despite efforts from both sides to seize the lead, neither could breakthedeadlockbeforethefinal whistle.

In the subsequent match, Fruta ConquerorsFCrecordeda2-0win overMonedderlustFC,courtesyof goals from Makhaya Jarvis in the 5th minute and Shamar Barnes in the66thminute.

The KFC Elite League was launched on February 25 with Guyana's top ten clubs competing. Completing the roster of teams are def

United FC, Monedderlust FC, Den AmstelandBuxtonUnitedFC.

The league has a diverse range of players, including past champions, national players and aspiringtalents.

It is a platform for players to exhibit their abilities, vie for selection in national team programmes, pursue scholarships, and even secure contracts with clubs beyond the borders of Guyana.

The GFF continues to encourage fans to support their teams by attending games at the NTCandothervenues.

YesterdayGuyanaPoliceForce FC were to take on Ann's Grove United FC at the GFF National TrainingCentre,Providence. Action

ampions Guyana Defence Force FC, Guyana Police Force FC, Western Tigers FC, Slingerz FC, Santos FC, Fruta Conquerors FC, Ann's Grove

Cougars,IthacaFC,Timehri headlineBerbicefixtures Easter 'Skill Cash and Gold' Cup...

The Easter football tournament was a thrilling spectacle over the long weekend, with Cougars FC, Ithaca FC, and Timehri Panthersemergingvictoriousinthe CoolCrewPromotionandParadise SportsClubEasterCup.Theevent, knownastheSkillsCashandGold Football Championship, held in Berbice on Monday, showcased threeexcitingmatches.

A notable double-header featured Mahaicony Western Lions against Airy Hall, and Ann's Grove All Star against Beterverwagting(BV)TU,the day before. Airy Hall and BV claimed victories, while BuxtonStarsreceivedawinvia walkover

In Monday's matchups, Herstelling Raiders faced Cougars FC in a tightly contested match. Despite a slow start dominated by solid defenses,CougarsFC'schange intacticsinthesecondhalfled to Ray Reddock breaking the deadlock in the 53rd minute, securing a 1-0 lead. This goal seemedtodeflatethespiritsof Herstelling, who struggled to mount successful attacks thereafter

In another match, Ithaca FC defeated Hopetown FC 2-0, courtesy of goals from Omario Gabriel and Jennick Gittens in the 10th and 17th minutes, respectively

Meanwhile, Timehri Panthers secureda1-0victoryoverParadise Invaders, thanks to Akeem James' 18th-minutegoal.

Sunday's matches at Golden Grove were equally captivating.

Air Hall dominated Mahaicony Western with a resounding 6-2 victory, with Eon Abel scoring twice and Jason Ronaldo contributing earlygoalsinthe6thand 8thminute. Ann's Grove, however, suffered a 2-1 defeat against BV, with Devon Griffith and Quincy Jacobs each

findingthenet.

Airy Hall goal scorers (L-R) James Williams, Cordel Heywood, Eon Abel, and Jason Ronaldo.

This tournament owes its existence to the collaborative efforts of Cool Crew Promotion andParadiseSportsClub,bolstered by the generous support of key contributors such as MVP Sports, Icon (IBIS Construction Sales and Rental), the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports, and the Prime Minister'sOffice.

Additional sponsors include Anchor Cement, Central Housing

and Planning, ECS Construction and General Supply, Moore and Son Construction, Singh and Son Construction, the Urban Shoe Company, Republic Bank, JS Engineering and Supply, KK Technical Supplies and Rental, LucozadeEnergy,MagnumBrand, Professor Emanuel Cummings, Colin Joseph, CurtisAndries, Park Square, Legal Entertainment, Chicken King, and Grill King Enterprise.

'Pastor' Stewart ready to lay hands on April 20

Despite his opponent, JermaineKing,pullingoutat the last minute, Laured Stewart remains focused on whoeverisplacedinhispath to the International Boxing Council's(IBC)International Cruiserweightbelt.

Nicknamed "Pastor," the US-based Guyanese boxer will feature as an undercard on the Elton Dharry vs Dexter Marques bout for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) Gold World Super Flyweight title on April 20 at the Everest Ground.

"The way I see it, Jermaine is scared of me, as he should be, after all, the Lion is Hungry… Winning this fight is crucial to me since achieving a championship as a professional boxer has always been a childhood dream of mine," Stewart expressed to Kaieteur News yesterday Stewart, who debuted with a Unanimous Decision

victoryoverAnsonGreenat the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, has encountered just onelossinfouroutings. His only setback was a Majority Decision defeat to theUSA'sJalenRenaud.

"I also understand that clinching this belt will propel me into discussions forcompetingforoneofthe m o r e p r e s t i g i o u s international titles in the future, possibly the IBF or IBO,"Stewartobserved.

Heregardshisupcoming fight on April 20 as a positive step forward, adding, "A victory here significantly broadens the horizonofopportunities."

The man of faith stated, "I'm calling on the public and every member of the BodyofChristtojoinmeon the night of the 20th at the EverestCricketClubtohelp cheer me on as I pursue the realization of a childhood dream."

Dharry, the WBC International Super Fly champion, boasts a ring record of 27 wins and six losses. Hisclosestopportunityto a world title came against AustralianAndrewMoloney, but his WBA Interim World

Youngsters shine at Grand Prix 3 Chess Tournament

-CouchmanandShariffwinintheirrespectivecategories

The third Grand Prix Chess tournament ended with Kyle Couchman emerging as the winner of the Open Category and Sasha Shariff in the Female Category

Couchman amassed 6 pointsoutoftheeight-round tournament after four wins andfourdrawstopushahead oftheseventeencontenders. His final battle against senior Rashad Hussain gainedhimthetopspotafter being tied with Keron Sandiford and Ethan Lee at the beginning of the last roundwith5points.

Couchman defeated Tremusa Marshal, Loris Nathoo, and Ethan Lee and drewwithJadenTaylor,Sandiford, Ronuel Greenidge, and Roberto Neto.

Lee emerged as the secondplace winner with 5.5 points after he and reigning Junior Champion Sandifordwenthead-to-headinthe finalround,andbothplayersagreed to a draw.Lee initially obtained a dominant position with mounting threats from his two unobstructed

Rooks poised to invade But Sandiford managed to neutralize his opponent's gains. The match entered an endgame with active queens and the few pawns of both players potentially becoming targets.

Sandiford was on the verge of capturing Lee's helpless pawns but Leestruckback,usinghisQueento continuously threaten Sandiford's King.Inthebrieftussle,Leeforced

his opponent to redirect his attentionandfocusonthesafetyof his all-important King With dwindling chances of victory on either side, both players subsequentlyagreedtoadraw Sandifordcameinthirdwith5.5 points after defeating Rafael Park, Rashad Hussain, and Jaden Taylor and drawing with Ricardo Narine, Couchman, Sachin Pitamber and RobertoNeto.

Seniors Roberto Neto took the fourth spot with 5.5 points, CM Ronuel Greenidge, fifth with 5 points, and Rashad Hussain with 4.5points.JadenTaylor,KimShing Chong, Sachin Pitamber, and Kishan Puran ended with 4 5 points, and Loris Nathoo and RicardoNarinewith4points.

Meanwhile,onthefemaleside, Sasha Shariff emerged victorious with 6.5 points ahead of Women's Champion Jessica Callender, also on 6.5 points due to the tie-break system. Shariff and Callender had 5.5 points before the final round, andbothwontheirmatchesagainst Nellisha Johnson and Angelina Yhap,respectively

In the final round, a confident Shariff outplayed her female counterpart,Johnson,withaKnight and two Rooks wreaking havoc. Johnson was unable to defend her deteriorating position, despite fighting valiantly with only two Rooks.Shariffwonmorematerial,

(Continuedonpage27)

Lusignan Golf Club Hosts Successful GYSBI and Robert Hanoman Golf Tournament…

Mangra and Harry take top honours

The Lusignan Golf Club welcomed golf enthusiasts and competitorsfromnearandfarforan exciting weekend of golf at the GYSBI and Robert Hanoman Golf Tournament. Held over the past weekend,thetournamentshowcased the exceptional talent and sportsmanship of its participants, providing a thrilling experience for allinvolved.Inadisplayofskilland

precision on the greens, Maxim Mangra and Bridgelall Harry emerged victorious, securing the first-place position with their outstanding performance. Mangra and Harry's remarkable teamwork andstrategicplaypropelledthemto the top of the leaderboard, earning them well-deserved recognition for theirachievement.Followingclosely behind, Jaipaul Sukhnanan and

Feroze Barkat demonstrated their talent and determination, clinching the second-place spot with a stellar performance throughout the tournament.SukhnananandBarkat's impressive display of skill showcasedtheirabilitytocompeteat a high level and added to the excitement of the event.Rounding outthetopthreepositions,Paton (Continuedonpage27)

Part of the action.