Kaieteur News

President Lula pledges support to CARICOM’s plan to eliminate hunger

Br a z i l i a n

President Luiz

Inacio Lula Da Silva has thrown his government's support behind the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) drive for food security and southern hemisphere cooperation.

PresidentLulaarrivedin Georgetown on Wednesday tojoinCARICOMleadersat the46thRegularMeetingfor theHeadsofGovernment.

In his address, President Lula acknowledged the challenges confronting the Caribbean, particularly the issue of food insecurity affecting half of the region's population, compounded by theloomingthreatofclimate change.

“ We k n o w t h a t CARICOM expects more fromBrazil.Weareawareof the main challenges facing the region,” President Lula remarked.

He added, “I want to stress that these two problems (food security and climate change) are at the coreofthediscussioncarried outbyBrazil…Ialsowantto emphasise that those two problemshavethesameroot (is)inequality.”

PresidentLulaaddressed the need for improved infrastructure and connectivity between Brazil andCARICOM.

He outlined that one of the priorities of his government is the integration of the Guiana Shield (Guyana, Venezuela andSuriname).

“Our biggest obstacle is lack of connection, whether by land, sea or air,” he said. He added, “In which we want to pave our way to the Caribbean. We will open corridorscapableofmeeting supply demands and strengthening food security intheregion.”

To this end, he pointed outthatfoodandotheritems cannot be circulated if there isnoregionalintegration.

“Brazil can offer food stock at competitive prices. But it can also help increase global agriculture productivity,” the Brazilian presidentstated.

Emphasising the urgent need for global solidarity and action, President Lula d e n o u n c e d t h e disproportionate allocation of over US$2 trillion annually towards military expenditures.

“Itisnotpossiblethatina planet that produces enough foodtofeedthewholeworld population around 735 million people do not have somethingtoeat.

It'snotpossiblethatrich countries which bare the main responsibility for the climatecrisiscontinuetofall short of the commitment to dedicate US$100B to

developing countries for climateaction,”hesaid.

Moreover, the Brazilian President highlighted the impacts of war and underscored Brazil's commitment to continue to fightforworldpeace.

Highlighting the interconnectednessofglobal conflicts with food security,

President Lula stressed the far-reaching consequences oftheRussia-Ukrainewar Lula said too, “A Genocide in Gaza affects all human kinds because it puts intoquestionourverysenses ofhumanity.”

Notably,PresidentIrfaan Ali on Sunday announced CARICOM's commitment to eliminating hunger and malnutrition by 2030. This marks a significant step forward in addressing food insecuritywithintheregion.

During the opening ceremonyoftheCARICOM leaders meeting, President Ali acknowledged the escalating food insecurity crisis. President Ali cited alarmingstatisticsindicating ariseintheproportionofthe population affected by hunger and malnutrition since 2022 He outlined plans to mobilise international finance and support to eradicate hunger

andmalnutritionby2030.

Inadditiontoaddressing immediate food security concerns, President Ali disclosed the importance of revitalising key sectors such ascitrusproduction.

He spoke about collaborativeinitiativeswith Brazil aim to rebuild the citrus sector, with ambitious targets set to ensure the availability of one million citrus seedlings within the firstyear

Tradebarriersareamong the challenges Member States face when attempting to increase trade in agriculture in the Region. Reducing these barriers is one of the objectives of the Community's 25 by 2025 initiative.

The initiative, which the Chairman characterized as “a priority,” was one of the key agenda items for the heads of government meeting.

CARICOM calls for ceasefire in Gaza

At the conclusion

of the 46th

Regular Meeting of the Heads of Government on Wednesday evening, the new Chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), President Irfaan Ali addressed the ongoing crisis in Gaza, expressing deep distress over the escalating violence and humanitarian situation.

Ali read CARICOM's statementwhichcalledforan immediateceasefireinGaza.

The statement reaffirmed

its condemnation of the violence in Gaza, emphasizing the tragic loss of civilian lives, including womenandchildren,andthe widespread suffering caused bytheconflict.

“In this regard, CARICOM urges an immediateandunconditional ceasefire in Gaza and safe andunimpededaccessforthe delivery of adequate and sustained humanitarian assistance,” the Chairman stated.

The statement also

reiterated CARICOM's stance against attacks by Hamas and violations of international humanitarian lawbyIsraeliforces.

CARICOM also highlightedtheurgentneed for unimpeded access for humanitarian aid to alleviate the dire situation facingcivilians.

The regional body also advocatedforthereleaseof hostages and detainees held without charges to their families, stressing the importance of upholding the

ruleoflaw

It was stated, “Israel's continued and expanding occupationofterritoryinthe

occupied West Bank poses a serious and continuing threat to a peaceful, secure and stableworld.”

Highlighting the broader implications of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, CARICOM r e a f f i r m e d i t s commitment to a twostate solution based on U n i t e d N a t i o n s resolutions The community expressed concern over Israel's disregard for UN resolutions

and called for collective actiontoensurecompliance.

“The community therefore calls for a renewed commitment to a peaceful resolution of the IsraeliPalestinian conflict through meaningful dialogue and negotiation and calls upon international community to play a constructive role in facilitating a lasting solution to the conflict and achieving a durable peace that guarantees the human rights, dignity and security of both sides,”Alistated.

Tel:

ExxonMobil hiding, Jagdeo spinning

We cut to the quick: how much oil has ExxonMobil found in the last seven discoveries it has announced? It is approachingclosetotwoyearssincethelastannouncement, and ExxonMobil’s silence seems likely to continue unbroken, if Guyana’s chief policymaker, Bharrat Jagdeo, has his way The follow-up questions are why is Jagdeo consenting to being a part of this silence about how much newoilhasbeenfound? Howcananynationalleader,with some concern for his people’s interests, condone what ExxonMobilisdoingtoGuyanese? Howcanaformerhead of state be so casual, seen as rippling with negligence, in looking out for his country and its citizens? What kind of partnership has Jagdeo consummated with ExxonMobil’s thatfacilitatesthecompany’sresistancetoreleasingthenew oildiscoverynumbers?

Thereareallthesequestionsabouthowmuchoilhasbeen found,butnoanswers JagdeosaidthatExxonMobilistoobusy extractingthehighestreturnsfrom(“monetizing”)itsdiscovery assets Eventohisownearsthatshouldsoundunconvincing,a dodge that digs a deeper pothole for himself ExxonMobil wouldhavebeenfullyengagedindoingjustthatfromthefirst discoveryandthefirstbarrelofoilshipped Thecompanyhas notbeenintheoilbusinessforoverahundredyearsfornothing All of its human and technological resources are smoothly gearedtodothat(“monetize”whatisinhand)initssleep Rank andfileGuyanesemaynotknowmuchaboutthat,butJagdeo knowsthatverywell TheworldknowsthatExxonMobilhasthe organizationalapparatusinplacetodojustwhatJagdeohasoffered asacoverforthecompany’ssecrecy(andthatofhehimself)on what is the quantity of new oil found in those last seven discoveries Yet,thereisGuyana’schiefpolicymakerJagdeo unconcerned about making himself look like an oil joker, certainly a neophyte, with his flimsy excuses on behalf of ExxonMobil Arealnationalleader,onetrulyforthepeople, wouldpushExxonMobiltothefrontoftheline,andleaveitto answer the question about how much new oil has been discovered Instead,thereisthiscountry’schiefpolicymaker runninginterferenceforExxonMobil

There can be no denying, after the litany of Jagdeo’s antics and gymnastics are considered, that the chief policy that he and the PPPC Government have settled for is to protect ExxonMobil at all costs ExxonMobil has been describedasa“superpower”byanotherGuyaneseleader,soit has no use for the likes of oil amateurs like Jagdeo and other apologistsinthePPPCGovernmenttoerectcamouflagesforit TheproblemforExxonMobilisthatthemorethatitdependson Jagdeo to come up with these schemes (“monetizing”) for its failure to reveal the full figures about the seven new oil discoveries, the more twisted and the more untrustworthy the companylooksintheeyesofGuyanese(andtheworldatlarge) ThepeoplemakingcrucialdecisionsatExxonMobilmayhave become so hardened by repeated conclusions wherever it operates about underhanded activity, and a conspicuous dissociationfromcommendablestandards,thattheydon’tcare anymore Still,theyleavethedirtierjobstotheirlocalproxiesto quiettheirquestioningandcriticalpeople

ExxonMobil likes to fool the Guyanese people by holding itself out as a principled partner It cannot be principledintheleastwhensomethingthatisautomaticfor the company is shrouded in so much secrecy, and to the disadvantageoftheownersoftheoilasset.Jagdeosaysthat thecompany’stimeisfocusedonhigherpriorities. Thisis how small and shameless this former president makes himself. He knows what is important for ExxonMobil, but he doesn’t care for the Guyanese people to know what is important to them. That is, how much oil is involved in those seven new discoveries, now wrapped in a blanket of suspicious silence for almost two years. It should occur to ExxonMobil’sCountryHeadthattheseconcealmentslayers leavebothheandhiscompanywithaterriblesmell.Ifthere is nothing to fear with discovery disclosures, then there shouldbenothingtofear

Boast of being the best network hollow

DEAREDITOR

The telecommunication company celebrating its seventeenth anniversary boasts of being the best network anywhere in Guyana including interior, r u r a l a r e a s a n d

communities in an advertisement Butaletter dispels that notion in Region 8 (KN February 28)

The boast, based on the very powerful tell off, as detailed in the

letter, rings hollow

It is prudent to note the tell off was equally apportioned to its competitor

M a y b e t h e r e d network may want to review the claim and

w i t h d r a w t h e advertisement

As an aside what is the status of the green network thatwastoutedascomingon board?

Regards

ShamshunMohamed

Would the PNCR Elect a New Leader at their 2024 Congress?

DEAREDITOR

When Mr Aubrey Norton was elected PNCR leader over Joseph Harmon in December 2021 and was subsequently elected as Opposition Leader in April 2022, there followed a marginalization of key PNCR members like Mr Basil Williams, Ms. Amna Ally, Mr James Bond, Mr Ronald Bulkan, Dr Van West Charles, Ms. Simona Broomes, Mr. Carl Greenidge, Mr. Winston Jordan, Dr. George Norton, andevenMr.DavidGranger. Has the old PNCR guard beendiscarded?

From an outsider’s viewpoint that move was to quellanypowerstrugglethat w o u l d e n s u e Notwithstanding, ruptures began to appear and there havebeenperiodicreportsof a power struggle within the PNCR party. However, while such power struggles tendtovaryinfrequencyand intensity, they are common occurrences among political parties, but what is not common is how power struggles are mediated and controlled.

The failure of Mr Aubrey Norton to convene PNCR’sCongressbytheend of 2023 on the pretext that the party had no funds for thispurposewasdisputedas the Party was able to fund several of its Members’

(MPs) travel to a Washington Conference Thus, suspicion over the convening of PNCR Congresscontinuestoswirl.

Some names including Mr Roysdale Forde, SC, Ms. Annette Ferguson, and Ms. Amanza Walton-Desir have been floating around that they might challenge Mr Nortonforhistopjobas PNCRleader.Forpurposeof this analysis, however, we will focus only on one candidate.

Ms. Amanza WaltonDesir has become a noted figureinthePNCRpartyand is well-known among party members and supporters She is smart, possesses elementsofcharisma,andis articulate Some PPP/C members had initially regardedherasanemerging p o l i t i c a l l e a d e r Unfortunately, their perception of her rise began to whittle consequent to her utterances of derogatory remarks about Indians during a Politics 101 interview with Dr David Hinds.

Ms. Desir said: “part of the political divide, on the PPP/C, have a base that if they [PPP] say this is going tohappen…theybelievethat because the burden of sorting things out for themselves is too great and so they remained trapped. All the while, believing that

they are free to think and self-determine, they do not have the right of selfdetermination because true freedom requires work. It is okay for me to remain in bondagebecausesomeoneis responsible for me you have a bunch of mentally lazy people ” (SN: 11/29/21)

Dr Swetha Parthinand (SN:11/29/21)slammedher for making those ugly remarksnotingthatsheisnot qualified to speak on Indian psychology,whiletheIndian Arrival Committee (IAC) described her remarks as “racially insensitive and offensive” (SN: 5/3/21) and referred the matter to the E t h n i c R e l a t i o n s Commission (ERC) Guyana’s Attorney General Hon Anil Nandlall noted: “her utterances are d o w n r i g h t r a c i s t , discriminatory, and absolutely repulsive Utterances like those have no place in any modern, democratic, and civilized society” (Guyana Times: 5/2/21).

D e s p i t e t h e s e condemnations, Dr David Hinds did not see anything repulsive about Ms. Desir’s remarks and sought instead to invoke false equivalence to absolve her behaviour Dr David Hinds insisted: “I stand in solidarity with her...I say emphatically that

the offending statement is neitheroffensivenorracist.” (KN 5/4/21). Really! But former President Hon. Sam Hinds provided some insights into Dr Hinds’ subtleapplicationoftherace card.

Referring to the bauxite industry, Dr Hinds stated:

“The continued subsidizing of the sugar industry in the formofmassivebailoutshas directlybenefitedthemainly I n d i a n G u y a n e s e community. The PPP never did the same for sectors heavily populated by AfricanGuyanese.Infact,it sought to remove the electricity subsidy from Linden.” (SN 10/6/2016). Hon. Sam Hinds called out Dr Hinds for making incorrect and race-based arguments and listed the various measures taken by the PPP/C government to save the bauxite industry including the annual $(G)3billion electricity subsidy The annual per capita subsidy per bauxite worker is more than twice (2.56 times)thatfortheannualper capita subsidy per sugar worker

Because Ms. Desir has refused to apologize for making those derogatory remarks and because she believes that these would evaporate with time, she doesnotthinkthatthis

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All Registration Transactions are Free

DEAREDITOR

28th February, 2024, GEORGETOWN – As the G u y a n a E l e c t i o n s Commission (GECOM) continues to fulfill its legal obligation to conduct Registration in accordance with the National RegistrationAct,Cap19:08, queriesinrelationtothecost for various registration transactions have been received from time to time.

In this regard, the Commission takes this opportunity to inform the general public that there is absolutely no need for anyone to pay any cost

whatsoever for any registration transaction, including the issuance of a National Identification Card. The Commission also uses this opportunity to remind eligible persons that there is an ongoing registration exercise which will end on May 31, 2024. During this exercise, any personwhowillbe14years and older by the 30th June, 2024, and is a Guyanese citizen by birth, descent, naturalization, or registration, or is a citizen from a Commonwealth countrylivinginGuyanafor

one year or more, can apply for registration, providing he/shewasneverregistered.

Existing registrants who are desirous of updating their records such as a request to correct or change their names, date of birth, occupation,andupdatetheir addresses are advised that those transactions would alsobefacilitatedduringthis exercise.

Inviewoftheforegoing, persons desirous of conducting any registration transaction whether new r e g i s t r a t i o n o r changes/corrections to their particulars are required to

v i s i t t h e G E C O M Registration Office responsible for their area of residence on or before the 31st May, 2024 during official working hours to apply For further information, persons are advised to visit GECOM’s w e b s i t e a t www.gecom.org.gy, follow us on Facebook at Guyana Elections Commission, or call 225-0277-9, 223-9653, or223-1300.

Regards

YolandaWard PublicRelationsOfficer

Guyana Elections Commission

Open letter to CARICOM Heads on the situation in Haiti

DEAREDITOR

The following is a summary of a four-page Open Letter sent yesterday (Friday February 23) to CARICOM Heads of Government prior to their meeting which starts in GuyanaonSundayFebruary 25.

Prior to meetings of HeadsofGovernmentofthe Caribbean Community, the Assembly of Caribbean People has taken the opportunity to communicate on important matters of regional concern In our latest Open Letter, we identified:

•CARICOM’simportant and principled position against the illegal and illegitimate commercial, financial and economic blockadeofCuba,whichwe expect will be once again reiterated

•The issue of the genocide of Palestinians, and hoped that CARICOM would make a strong, unequivocal statement on this

•The Venezuela and Guyana border conflict and expressed congratulations for the initiative of the convening of a dialogue by the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to reduce tensions which dialogue resulted in the DeclarationofArgyle,wasa welcome and fruitful intervention Further, we stated that we looked forwardtothestrengthening oftheprocessofdialogueon this crucial issue, given that it has been reported that the PresidentofBrazilwillbein attendance.Weinsistthatthe Caribbean is and must remainaZoneofPeace.

The issue that is of great concern to us at this time is thesituationinHaiti.

The military occupation by MINUSTAH was an affront to the dignity of the Haitian people who have greatprideintheirhistoryas a people who defeated colonialism, ended their enslavement and won their

independence. In addition, Haitihashadtocontendwith a group of self-appointed colonial “rulers” – the Core Groupcomprisedinthemain by the US, France and Canada.

We are very deeply concerned that CARICOM is about to make decisions that will stain its proud history as a regional integration movement that has stood on principle on matters of international relations, and besmirch its recognition of noninterference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state and the right of a people to self-determination.

The facts speak for themselves.

•Haiti does not have a legitimategovernment.Ariel Henry may be the de facto Prime Minister but he was not elected He was essentially installed by the “Core Group”. There is no presidentandnoparliament. Henry therefore cannot make commitments to regional and international bodies for and on behalf of theHaitianpeople.

• T h e s i t u a t i o n s u r r o u n d i n g t h e assassination of the then President Jovanel Moise suggests that many in the Haitian political elite may have been/were involved The recent indictments of Moise’swife,aformerChief ofPoliceandPrimeMinister Claude Joseph are indicationsofthis,asarethe charges and/or convictions brought against other members of the economic

and political elite class both intheUSandinHaiti.

• There have also been sanctions imposed by Canada on former President Michel Martelly and two of his former Prime Minister forfinancinggangs.Therise ofandthepowerofthegangs is directly related to the political and economic elites.Manyalsopointtothe US being complicit in the violence and the return by the US to Haiti of a former person involved in violent activity – Guy Phillipe –supportsthisview Martelly, Joseph,MoiseandHenryare all connected to and/or support and/or have led the same political party – the PHTK. The current crisis in Haiti therefore cannot be disentangled by the actors –Haitianandforeign–thatare responsibleforitscreation.

•Thesamecanbesaidof the Core Group that have beenthedefactocontrollers in Haiti. The flow of weapons and ammunition into Haiti from the US has beengoingonforyearswith only minimal efforts by the UStostopthis.Likeinother CARICOMstates,itisthese weapons that gangs use to kill and carry out other violent crimes. The Haitian National Police (HNP) is being gutted by the US policy on migration. Two years ago, the HNP had an already low number of 12,000 officers for a nation of 12 million people.Today, as a result of the US policy, thousands of Haitians have migratedtotheUSincluding

badly needed medical professionals and some 3,000 police officers, leaving the HNP with less than 8,000 officers The conditions for restoring the HNP to proper strength is what is required, not a multinational security mission.Similarly,resources are needed to secure Haiti’s borders.Haitihasacoastline of 1770 kilometres yet the HNP has one nonoperational boat to conduct patrols.

• In spite of this reality, CARICOM is seeking to find a “solution” to the Haitian crisis with the very actorsthatcreatedthecrisis. AccordingtotheMinisterof Foreign Affairs of Guyana Hugh Todd, who was interviewed on a Trinidad and Tobago tv station –CNC3 – on February 21st, therewillbeaspecialsession of your Heads meeting to discuss Haiti and at that m e e t i n g w i l l b e representatives of the US, Canada and France and that Ariel Henry will also be present. Any outcome of suchameetingwillbeinthe interestofthosewhocreated the crisis and certainly not theHaitianpeople!

• The US is clearly orchestrating Haiti’s future. Thus, just over a week ago there was a three-day meeting in Washington between officials of the governments of the US, Kenya and Haiti, which meeting according to press reports was to plan for the d e p l o y m e n t o f a

multinational security mission to Haiti This “multinational security mission”issupposedtobea UN mandated mission Clearly, the UN is a fig leaf for the US and other membersoftheCoreGroup, whichdonotwanttoinitiate theactionsthemselves.

• Furthermore, Under SecretaryofStateUzraZeya is visiting two CARICOM member states this week –JamaicaandBelize–inorder to “meet with close partners to engage on the Haiti Multinational Security Supportmission”.Sothedie is being cast: planning meeting in Washington; visits to close partners; then meeting with CARICOM heads.

• All this is taking place against the fact that the SupremeCourtofKenyahas ruledthatKenyacannotsend policetoHaitias thatwould be unconstitutional. In spite of this, the US is pushing ahead. The Washington meeting sought to arrive at some “MOU” between the illegitimate Henry regime and the Kenyan government that would somehow circumvent the latter’s Supreme Court judgment. CARICOM should take this Court judgement as an opportunity to reverse its decisiontosupportamilitary

securitymission.

• At stake for Kenya is some US $100 million pledgedbyPresidentBidento Kenyainsupportofitsending 1,000policeofficerstoHaiti Kenya’s offer to send a militaryforceisnotaboutPan Africanism,itisaboutmoney At stake for Henry is his continuing in office in order to have an illegitimate and perhaps unconstitutional Electoral Council hold elections, through which the corrupt PHTK and the Haitian elites can maintain political power At stake for theUSandtheCoreGroupis thecontinuationoftheirneocolonial access to Haitian resources

• CARICOM’s Eminent PersonsGroup,whichwasa positive initiative has becomeboggeddownandis losingcredibility

Key to this, is the position taken by the EPG and/or CARICOM that any transitional government must involve Ariel Henry. Henry, in the view of very many – if not the vast majority - of Haitians must gofortheretobearesolution of the crisis. Recent mass demonstration in Haiti with the people demanding that Henry must go is an indication that Henry must havenoroleinany

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Open letter to CARICOM Heads...

Frompage05 transitional governance arrangements.

We urged the Heads to proceed with great care and attention on the issue of Haiti and the role of CARICOM.

CARICOM must not be seen to give effect to the neo-colonial and imperial agenda of the US, France andCanada

They are not genuinely interested in the well-being oftheHaitianpeople

We call on you to use this meeting with the Core Group and Henry to press an agenda that is in the interest of the Haitian people:

• The stepping down of Ariel Henry as de facto Prime Minister and ending

the legitimacy given to HenrybyCARICOM

•The establishment of a legitimate transitional government and other g o v e r n a n c e arrangements

•The stopping of the flow of arms into Haiti

•Breaking the control that the drug traffickers and other corrupt sections of the Haitian elite have over the politicalsystem

•Ensuring that there is no external military intervention or invasion

•Investment in and strengthening the capacity of the Haitian institutions, including the HNP, to deal with the gangs

Weareconfidentthatthe

proposals by the Montana Accord(whichareattached) are not only workable but can e s t a b l i s h t h e environment in which the Haitian people in fulfilment of their right to self-determination and in recognitionoftheir sovereignty, can overcome the gangs and the violence andrestoreHaititoapathof democracyanddignity

Sincerely

DavidAbdulah,Trinidad & Tobago Hilda Guerrero, PuertoRico DavidDenny, Barbados Cubanchapterof ACP, Cuba Camille

C h a l m e r s , H a i t i C l a u d e t t e E t n e l , Suriname Robert Sae, Martinique Pedro Franco, Dominican Republic

Women robbed of valuables at Chinese restaurant

Whilst waiting on their orders at a Chinese restaurant located at Cummings Street, Georgetown, several personswererobbedoftheir valuable at gun-point on Wednesday

Police have confirmed that the robbery suspect, Matthew Sylvain, was arrested shortly after the robbery incident and he is currently in custody Close Circuit Television (CCTV) footage seen by this publication, showed that at the time of the robbery, the Chineserestaurantconsisted

ofsixindividuals,twomales and four females. Sylvain the suspected robber, is observed entering the restaurant, dressed in a red jersey and a pair of black longpants,and ablackhat. The suspect scanned the restaurant, and then approached a woman in a black jersey Upon his approach, he aggressively snatched the gold chain she had around her neck, and proceeded to relieve her of her valuables, whilst pointing a firearm towards her. Following that he avoided the two males that

were in the restaurant and continued to demand from the other women to hand over their belongings. After the victims complied with the robber’s request, he madegoodhisescape.

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PPP/C Govt. picked

Exxon over Guyanese

The PPP/C Government, with Vice President Jagdeo in the lead, is unmoving: no taxes on ExxonMobil's earnings from the Stabroek Block.

The government finalized a new Production Sharing Agreement, but Jagdeo digs in his heels, which means, ExxonMobil's operations and escalating production levels in the rich Stabroek Block are exempted.

No one should have any doubts whose side he is on, and ferociously so. This newspaper's publisher brought a tax filing in court, only for the Government of Guyana astonishingly to rush out immediately to stand by the side of the oil companies.

If there were any Guyanese who still harboured some slight belief that this country and its citizens came before the interests of oil companies, with ExxonMobil at the top of the list, the PPP/C Government's smashed any such belief.

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Chevron eyeing higher returns for shareholders from “world-class” assets in Guyana

United States oil major, Chevron Corporation is eyeing higher returns for its shareholders from the “world-class” assets in Guyana, through its deal to acquireHessCorporation.

Hess Corporation through its subsidiary, Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 percent interest in Guyana's lucrative Stabroek Block, where over 11 billion barrels of oil has been discoveredsince2015.

On October 23, 2023

Chevron announced that it entered into a definitive agreement with Hess Corporation to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Hess in an all-stock transaction valued at $53 billion, or $171 per share based on Chevron's closing price on October 20, 2023.

Under the terms of the a g r e e m e n t , H e s s shareholders will receive 1.0250sharesofChevronfor

each Hess share. The total enterprise value, including debt,ofthetransactionis$60 billion.

In a statement, Chevron said the acquisition of Hess upgrades and diversifies Chevron's already advantagedportfolio.Theoil company noted, “The Stabroek block in Guyana is an extraordinary asset with industry leading cash margins and low carbon intensity that is expected to deliver production growth intothenextdecade.”

To this end, it signaled, “The combined company is expected to grow production andfreecashflowfasterand for longer than Chevron's currentfive-yearguidance.”

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Chevron,MikeWirthsaidthe company is now positioned to strengthen its long-term performance and further enhance its “advantaged

portfolio by adding worldclass assets ”Meanwhile, Chevron's Chief Financial Officer(CFO),PierreBreber highlighted that the addition ofHessisexpectedtofurther extend the company's free cashflowgrowth.

“Withgreaterconfidence in projected long-term cash generation, Chevron intends to return more cash to shareholders with higher dividend per share growth a n d h i g h e r s h a r e repurchases, ” Breber remarked. Chevron is one of theworld'sleadingintegrated energy companies The company, headquartered in the United States, produces crude oil and natural gas; manufactures transportation f u e l s , l u b r i c a n t s , petrochemicals and additives; and develops technologies that enhance ourbusinessandtheindustry.

Whiletheoilcompanyis optimistic about the Hess

Blockwitha45%stake.

The two American companiesareatloggerheads overtheHessdealwhichmay head to arbitration ExxonMobil stated on Monday its intention to potentially pre-empt Chevron's acquisition of the stake, which forms a crucial component of its deal with Hess The disagreement centers on Exxon's assertion of a right to first refusal regarding any sale of the Stabroekblock.

billion Exxon said in a statement that it wants to ensure it will “preserve our righttorealizethesignificant value we've created and are entitled to in the Guyana asset,” adding it is “working closely with the Guyanese government to ensure their rightsandprivileges.”

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Chevron, Mike

deal, it must now iron out differences with its major competitor,ExxonMobil,the operator of the Stabroek

Kaieteur News reported yesterday that Chevron, in a securities filing, cautioned that the dispute could jeopardize its US$53 billion dealforHess.Shouldthedeal collapse, Hess might face a breakup fee of US$1 7

Meanwhile, Hess and Chevron said, “The right of first refusal provision is not applicable to the merger We are fully committed to the transaction and do not believe the ROFR or these discussions will prevent its successfulcompletion.”

Chevron has since indicated that the dispute couldwindupinarbitrationif the two sides cannot reach a settlement.

Men in court for careless driving

Two men made their first court appearanceattheGeorgetownMagistrates' CourtonWednesdaychargedwithcareless drivingonCampandLamahaStreets.

Thirty-five-year-oldOmayoHodgeand 23-year-old Trevon Smith appeared before Senior Magistrate Clive Nurse, where the trafficchargewasreadtothem.Thecharge stated that on February 11, 2024, at Camp and Lamaha Streets, they drove their respective vehicles, without care and attention.

The prosecutor related that at about 23:45hoursonFebruary11,2024,atCamp andLamahaStreets,Smithwasthedriverof PAD 5508, which was proceeding on the

Demerara Street, Georgetown, where there aretrafficlights,whichwereflashingatthe time as he approach the intersection of Camp and Lamaha Streets, he reportedly failedtocomplywiththeflashingredlights and collided with Hodge, who was driving motorcarPAF8491,whichwasproceeding northalongthewesterndrivewayofCamp Streetresultingindamagestobothvehicles.

During the court proceedings, Smith pleadedguiltyandhewasfined$40,000,if hefailstopay,theoutcomewouldbethree monthsimprisonment.Hodge,whopleaded notguilty,wasplacedon$30,000bailandis scheduled to return to court on March 29, 2024.

Jagdeo is off mark again!

Theroleofthejournalist at press conferences is to pose the questions However, it appears that every time Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo is cornered, heseekstoposequestionsto journalists knowing fully well that they would not have the answers to those questionsattheirfingertips.

If we had journalists skilled in repartee, they w o u l d h a v e l o n g embarrassed Jagdeo. One way of countering him asking journalists questions is to simply say, “With all duerespectSir,itisthisside which asks the questions.”

Orthejournalistwhenasked whether she knew the answertothequestioncould have simply replied to Jagdeo,“NoIdon’t,butIam sure you are going to tell us.”AthismostrecentPress

Conference, the Vice President was asked whether he had a list of the US$20B assets which he claimed the oil companies have in Guyana and which could be sold if the need arosetodosotocompensate for an oil spill. Admittedly, the question was not properly framed In his response, Jagdeo asked the journalist whether she had seen the balance sheet and financial statements of the oil companies He then pointedtotheproposedsale of Hess to Chevron saying that it was US$60B deal saying that this was the market value of the assets which would also include reserves.

First,ofallJagdeoought toknowthattheProduction Sharing Agreement which was signed and which he

refuses to renegotiate was betweentheGovernmentof G u y a n a a n d E s s o Exploration and Production (Guyana) Limited, Hess

Exploration Guyana Limited, and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited. Guyana therefore has an agreement with entities incorporated in Guyana. The Government ofGuyanadoesnothavean agreement with the parent companies of the entities operating in Guyana.These locally incorporated companies are not likely to have US$20B in assets in Guyana that can be levied upon in the event of an oil spill. This is one of the reasons why groups and individuals in Guyana have been pressing for a parent company guarantee by

Would the PNCR Elect a New...

Frompage04 would hurt her political career Well,anewallegation hasarisenwhichcouldforce her to rethink her position.

At her 2024 Budget debate, she was accused of another subliminal attack on PPP/C supporters (sugar workers). She claimed that the PPP/C can readily find billions of dollars to subsidize sugar workers but could not find funds to award teachers a better wage and benefits package A top PPP/C operativesaysthatMs.Desir hasshownnoconcernforthe plight of the 7,000 sugar

workers (most of whom are Indo-Guyanese) who were dismissed but has expressed unconditional love for the teachers.

When these subtle racebased comments are combined with her fuzzy maths, it is not clear if the PNCR party would regard Ms. Amanza Walton-Desir as a viable candidate, since they must consider whether those allegations might hurt their prospects at getting cross-over votes. For the PNCR to have a fair chance ofwinningthenextelections (2025), they must elect a

leader who could muster cross-over votes as they did in2015.ThePPP/Cwonthe 2020 elections by a narrow margin (The PPP/C got 50.69% vs APNU+AFC’s 47.34%,andtheotherparties got 1.97% of total valid votes). My sense is that future elections would be competitive.

My prediction, based on ongoing reports and anecdotal evidence, is that Mr Aubrey Norton would return as Leader and would consolidatehisposition.

Regards Dr.TaraSingh

DEM BOYS SEH

Guyana open fuh all kind of business

Guyanadehlookin’like one a dem wild parties where anybody and dey granny, coulda crash and make off wid de liquor Yeah man, Guyana been throwin’openitsdoorslike a desperate vendor hawkin’ goods at a market. But dis ain’tnoordinarymarket,dis isGuyana,thelandofgold, green, and a whole lotta grabbin’.

Dem Boys bin noticein’ how Guyana been carryin’ onlately Likeoneademol’ timers in de red light district, it lettin’everybody intosampledegoods.From big-shot investors to smalltime hustlers, everybody anddeycousincomin’toget apieceadiaction.Butiswe

really ready for dis level of intrusion?

We been hearin’people seh we need foreign investmentlikeweneedair to breathe. But mek we ask yuh dis: yuh really want anybody and dey uncle comin’inhere,messin’wid we ting? Guyana ain’t no free-for-all buffet where yuh jus’ help yuhself. We got treasures, we got resources, and we need to startactin’likeweknowit.

Imagine yuh inna one fancy restaurant, and every Tom, Dick, and Harry walkin’ in widout even a reservation. Dem Boys seh dat ain’t right! We need to bemoreselective‘boutwho welettin’inandwhatkinda

Exxon. They are doing so because they believe that in the event of an oil spill, thesecompaniesdonothave the value of assets in Guyana to compensate for a n y d a m a g e a n d destruction.

In March 2022, it was reported that the GovernmentofGuyanawas negotiating with the operators in the Stabroek Block for parent company guarantees. Jagdeo was quoted as saying, “Separately, not part of the permitting process for Yellowtail, we’re working with the companies to secure a parent guarantee that will cover the entire StabroekBlock.NotLiza1, Liza2,PayaraorYellowtail, but the entire Stabroek Block.Butthatisaseparate issue.” (Guyana Times March27th2002.) Soifthe government was confident that the oil companies had substantial assets on which to levy, why was it necessary to initiate negotiations about parent company guarantees? And what has been the outcome of these negotiations? Where are the parent companyguarantees? Jagdeoisalsocapableof

understanding the difference between the assetsonthebooksoftheoil companies, i.e. book value, and its fungible assets. A company’s book assets and fungible assets represent distinct facets of its financialposition.

Book assets, typically recorded on the balance sheet, encompass tangible and intangible resources owned by the company, such as property, equipment, patents, and trademarks.Theyarevalued based on historical costs or fair market value. On the other hand, fungible assets denote interchangeable financial instruments or goods,likestocks,bonds,or commodities, which can be exchanged on the market without affecting their value.

Creditors often target a company’s fungible assets rather than its book value assets when seeking to recover sums due or owed. The fungible assets offer ease of conversion Fungible assets, such as stocks, bonds, or cash equivalents, can be readily sold or exchanged in the market This allows creditors to swiftly recover

their funds In contrast, seizingandliquidatingbook value assets like property, equipment, or intellectual property can be a lengthy and complex process, often involving legal hurdles and d e p r e c i a t i o n considerations, which may result in diminished returns forcreditors.

So Jagdeo is deluding himself on two counts. The intangibles that he speaks about are not fungible assets. And it is doubtful whether the locally incorporated assets of the operators of the Stabroek Block amount to US$20B. If that were the case, there wouldhavebeennoneedto pursue parent company guarantees.

But don’t tell that to Jagdeo before he confuses himselffurther

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the o p i n i o n s o f t h i s newspaper.)

deal we signin’ up for We don’twannaenduplikedat poor fella who bought a “genuine” Rolex from a backalley,onlytofindoutit wasacheapknockoff.

So, Guyana, it’s time to put on we big people pants andstartdemandin’respect. We ain’t no pushover, we ain’t no walkover, we de jewel inna di crown of South America! Let’s be more discernin’, more discriminating,andshowde world dat we ain’t lettin’ nobody mess wid we ting. Dem Boys seh it loud and clear:Guyana,timetoclose de door to de riffraff and startattractin’demwahgan giveweafairdeal.

Talkhalf.Leffhalf

Oil spill: not a problem until it happens

After decades of dealing with oil, the twin island republic of Trinidad and Tobagoisforcedtodealwith anoilspill. Itismorethanan oil slick, a spill that has Grenada trembling, and Venezuelawatching,bracing. Presently,theTobagooilspill is one of those mysterious ones: it doesn't have an owner After decades of no such troubling event developing, it is alarming how much scrambling is going on in Tobago to get in frontofthisspill.

I will try to avoid covering ground that has already been traveled by others. Among which are lessons to be learned by Guyana,andwhattodothen. I think it is better, instead, to present this in a manner that many Guyanese from differentwalksoflifeshould beabletorelateto,anddraw

their own conclusions. An accident is of passing interest, not a concern, nor a problem, until there is involvement in one. The severer it is, the greater the regret, the more pronounced the second-guessing, the deeper the search for where things went wrong. It is the exact same situation with an oil spill (whether of moderate, menacing, or monstrousdimension).

Frankly, speaking, an oil spill is not thought of as a problem, until it happens, actually becomes one Happens elsewhere, to other people,butnothere. Nobody in his or her right mind is sitting down and hoping for an oil spill. God forbid that oneshouldhappenhere. But the longer that an oil spill fails to materialize, the quicker and smoother it is to let down the guard. It is

simplyamatteroftheodds,a normal human tendency To remain on perpetual high alert, to bring one's A-game dayafterday,canbewearing. On the people aboard rigs. thepowersthatareincontrol, as well as the people who could be affected. Adegree ofcasualnessislikelytoseep into the way that things are done. Peoplerelax,eventhe most focused, the most diligent, of them Casualness leads to negligence, and negligence could lead to any of the nightmare scenarios that is feared.

ThepeopleinTobagoare doing more than scratching theirheads. Theirhairisnow onfire,andtheyaretryingto yankitoutfromtheroot.

There is a different pillar that is leaned on now What are the odds of an oil spill occurring? What is the

history of such spills? Oil companies and governments that work in close collaboration with them prefertotakethecomforting road: why worry? Worry kills, is counterproductive. The odds are heavily in favour of no such alarming event ever taking place. In Guyana, I seem to recall Exxon's people using the well-hedged language of “highlyunlikely.”Ablowout is a once in a generationmany generations, on some occasions-development. In Guyana's parliament of all places that is supposed to be devoted to protecting the sovereign state, and the welfare of the people, there wasmindlesstalkabouthow is the probability of an oil spilltobecalculated?

Plus, how to attach a metric to what is 'unforeseen', and how to measurethefallout.

Thinking of that kind of limited,self-serving,nakedly unprotective blather, I trot out an old favourite of mine. It is said, with the fullest justification, that aviation travel is the safest form of transportation in the world.

It is, and the statistics are there to prove. There is one slight quirk in the inspiring aviation safety numbers

They don't have any meaning for those passengers (and their loved ones) whose plane hit the groundoroceannosefirst,or wingfirst,atseveralhundred miles per hour The highly improbable and the near impossible just became the breaking headline news There is nobody that I know whowantstobeapartofthat statistic Statistical aberration,tobesure,butstill fatalreality

This is not some Bermuda Triangle mystery, buttherealityof21stcentury flight history, and the infrequent tragedies that follow Notwithstanding enhanced technology, modern weather equipment, highly trained men and women, and state of the art aircraft, among many other positives, accidents still happen. Not every week or month. But when they do, theyblowthemind.

Just under 10 years ago, there was Malaysia, the illfatedMH370,andlessthana yearago,JapanAirlines,due tomixedsignalsandrunway mix-up. In both instances, the human toll was in the hundreds. All the stats, all the history, meant nothing to those gone. Their survivors have some automatic

insurance to help them pick up the pieces. The courts have their role to play. Regardless of where blame may be laid, that does not change the facts and fallouts ontheground.

In this country, politiciansaresomuchinbed with the oil companies that there is a type of sleeping sickness that has taken over thosewhoshouldbedrawing a line about insurance coverage slash parent companyguarantee.

They should be demandingit,sothatthereis something to tide over people, economy, and countryshouldtherebeanoil spill. One that brings regret for the lapses of those who knewwhatwasrequired,but playedgamestofeathertheir nests. Tobagoismorethana warning It is what is happening, and all the unknowns that could be coming.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the a u t h o r a n d d o n o t necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this newspaperanditsaffiliates.)

Chief Education Officer hauled before court for defying judge's order

Chief Education Officer (CEO), Saddam Hussain was hauled before the High Court onWednesday to face contempt proceedings for issuing a directive which statedthatteacherswillface a pay cut despite an interim court order in place instructing the Government nottodoso.

Hussain on Tuesday d i s s e m i n a t e d a memorandum to the RegionalEducationOfficers (REOs) within the eleven public school districts

instructing them to continue collectingdataonattendance ofteachersduringthestrike. Henotedthatordersmadeby Justice Sandil Kissoon are temporary and essentially whenthefinalorderismade, the data will used to determine salaries of those absenteeteachers.

The CEO emphasized in thememothat“Government of Guyana will not pay teachers for the days which theydidnotwork.” Whenhe appeared before Justice Kissoon on Wednesday to face the contempt

Man granted bail for causing death by dangerous driving

A 37-year-old man was granted bail in the sum of $400,000 on Tuesday, after he appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrate's Court charged with causing deathbydangerousdriving.

According to police, Edwards Sampson, 37, a resident of Graham's Hall, EastCoastDemerara(ECD), appearedbeforethecourt,in relation to a fatal accident that occurred on September 21, 2023 on the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Railway Embankment, around 22:30hrs, involving motorcar PMM 8295, which was driven at the time by Sampson, that claimed the life of pedestrian Patrick

Mamasee The matter was adjourned to April4,2024.

Haslingtonyouthslapped withtwocountsof robberyunderarms

A22-year-oldHaslington

South, East Coast Demerara (ECD)manwasremandedto prison after he was slapped with two counts of Robbery UnderArms(RUA)charge.

According to a report issued by the police on Wednesday, Lushawn Jevon Crawford is accused of robbing Wen Zu Chen and Shantie Mohan at Enmore ECD, on February 22, 2024. Policestatedthattheaccused wasarrestedandchargedlast week for the present offences On Monday, Crawford appeared at the VigilanceMagistrate'sCourt before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore, where he pleaded not guilty to both charges. Bail was refused and

proceedings, Hussain apologised profusely and gavethecourtacommitment thatthedirectivetotheREOs would be rescinded within an hour of the conclusion of thecontempthearing.

Thememowasrescinded andanewonewasissued.

For his part, Justice KissoonnotedthatHussain's instructionstoREOswerein direct conflict with his interim orders, so much so thatitcanbeviewedasbeing geared towards bringing the administrationofjusticeinto disrepute. The judge noted that the issuance the memorandum to the REOs was done with full knowledge that an order of thecourtwas“inforceandin effect.”

Justice Kissoon noted that the fact that Hussain madereferencetohisinterim orders in his memo, speaks to an attempt of willful disobedience to the orders, an attempt to interfere, prejudice, preempt the decision of the Court and bring the administration of justiceintodisrepute.

Itwaspointedoutthatas apenalty,apersoncanfacea finenotexceeding$250,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months forcontempt.

The Judge called upon the CEO to show cause why he should not be held in contempt for his actions. In his response to the court, Hussain said it was “never hisintentiontodisrespectthe judge or the court.” “It was

Remanded: Lushawn Jevon Crawford

Crawford was remanded to prison The matter was transferred to the Cove and John Magistrate's Court for hearingonMarch26,2024.

...forced to rescind memo on pay cuts, apologises to court

never my intention or the Ministry of Education's intension of cutting anybody's salary…until this isresolved,”hesaid.

He admitted that having read the order of the court, thatthelastparagraphofthe memowas“poorly”worded.

“I should have consulted with the Attorney General …before the circular was disseminated, it was never my intention to bring this court into disrepute or to have any kind of say while the matter is ongoing,” Hussain said accepting full blameforhisactions.“Iwill take all the blame…it was not intentional or malicious, ” Hussain emphasised.

He further stressed that outsidehisdutiesasCEO,he has integral role in ensuring that students are prepared and ready for the upcoming National Grade Six Assessment Examinations (NGSA). As such, Hussain

said that the absence of teachersforwhateverreason will have a grave impact on the operations of the educationsystem.

“I have to do something to ensure that the Grade Six teachers are teaching, it is withthatintentthatIsentout that circular ” Hussain noted.

The CEO stressed too that the absence of teachers severely and negatively impacts the education system, “whether it is 10 teachersor200absent.”

Attorney General (AG) AnilNandlallSCenteredan appearance on behalf of the CEO. TheAG was however reminded by the Judge that hehadnolocusstandiinthe matter and could not representHussain.

Thejudgepointedoutto the AG that he had himself successfully challenged his predecessor Basil Williams attempttorepresenthisparty in a similar proceeding. “I must remind, you have no standi in this matter, Mr Nandlall…”JusticeKissoon told the AG while pointing out that in ordinary circumstances, it would be AGandSolicitorGeneralof the State that would have a rolejoininginprotectingthe interestofthecourt.

The Judge emphasized thatthecontemptproceeding is necessary to ensure that the public confidence in the judiciary and administration of justice is protected Nandlall noted while he cannot represent the interest

of Mr Hussain, he is the State Legal's representative onrecordforthesubstantive matter “I accept, Mr Hussian accepts it [the memo] was not worded in themannerthatitshouldand thatweassuredthejudgethat it is not the intention of the Government of Guyana in theseproceedingstodisobey court orders or to c o m p r o m i s e t h e administration of justice.” “That was not the intention of the circular Whatever unhappy language was expressed, we apologise for that,”Nandlallsaid.

Last Thursday, Justice Sandil Kissoon granted a temporary order blocking the Government of Guyana from deducting the salaries ofstrikingteachers.

The High Court judge alsograntedaninterimorder which restrains the G o v e r n m e n t f r o m withholding the remittance of teachers' dues to the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU).

The judge made the orders at the first hearing of thecasefiledbytheGTUto challenge the Government's decision to deduct pay from the salaries of striking teachers and also blocking the administration from moving ahead with a decision to discontinue the deduction of union dues from the salaries of teachers on behalf of the Union until the determination of the full case the GTU brought againstthegovernment.

Judgefloatsmeditation to end teachers' strike

...AG to report on Govt's position to recommendation today

Inanefforttoendthestandoff betweentheGovernmentand the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) over discussions to end the impasse between teachers and the government, Justice Sandil Kissoonhasrecommendedthatthe parties engage in the mediation process.

JusticeKissoonwasatthetime speaking to representatives of the Ministry of Education and the GuyanaTeachersUnion,whowere present in his courtroom for a hearing into contempt proceedings brought against the Chief Education Officer, Saddam

HussainonWednesday

Towards the end of those proceedings, Justice Kissoon who is presiding over the case in which the GTU has challenged the Government's decision to cut the salaries of teachers who are participatinginthestrikeforaraise of pay, pointed out that standoff between the government and the union has been going on for quite toolong.

The judge suggested that the parties engage the mediation process towards resolving the issue. Justice Kissoon told the parties said that his court will be

willing to facilitate the mediation process if they will be so inclined.

“What is stopping the parties from engaging each?” “The end goal,” the judge said is “to get the parties talking and [possibly] get the teachersbacktotheclassroomand studentsbacktoschool.”

JusticeKissoonwentasfarasto nominate Senior Counsel Edward Lukhooasamediatorinthematter He also urged the lawyers for the GTUandGovernmenttonominate amediatoroftheirchoicesothatthe process can move forward. In response to the suggestion, President of the GTU, Mark Lyte

said that Union has always been willing to engage the ministry

According to Lyte, the GTU has written to the Permanent Secretary of the Education Ministry more

than once and is yet to receive a response on the matters related to thesalaryincrease.

However, Attorney General AnilNandlall,SCtoldthecourtthat hecouldnotcommittotheprocess given that he acts on behalf of a collective,that collective being the GovernmentofGuyana(GoG).

“So I have to go report to my principalsandgetinstructionsfrom the Government of Guyana and report back to the court,” Nandlall stated.

As a result, both parties have been given 24 hours to make a decision with a meeting and report totheCourtat3pmtoday

TheJudgewaskeentonotethat the mediation proceedings will have no effect on the substantive case in relation to the deduction of salariesforstrikingteachers.

Gaza ceasefire deal with Israel still not close

(ALJAZEERA) A senior official from the Palestinian group Hamas has dampened hopes of an immediate ceasefire deal with Israel,sayingtherewasstillalong way to go before an agreement couldbesecured.

“Thegapisstillwide.Wehave to discuss a lot of points with the mediators,”BasemNaim,thehead of political and international relationsforHamas,toldAlJazeera fromIstanbulonWednesday

This comes after United States President Joe Biden said he hopes tohaveaceasefireinIsrael'swaron Gaza by next Monday, with negotiations appearing to have gatheredpace.However,Naimsaid the Biden administration's optimisticposturewasnot“related totherealityontheground”andhas more to do with domestic political considerations in a US election year

“If the Americans want to be really optimistic, they have to end theirgameofdoublestandards,”he said. “They talk on one hand for stopping the aggression or for achieving a ceasefire and avoiding broadening the conflict into the region. But at the same time they are using the veto in the UN Security Council,” Naim said “They are approving $14bn for Israel,theyaresecuringIsraelwith moreammunitions.”

Naim had previously told Al JazeeralateonTuesdaythatHamas had not yet received an official truce proposal, but that meditators were working with the Israeli side

tocementone.

WhileHamaswaswillingtobe flexible on some aspects of a potentialdeal,itwouldnotdosoat the expense of its “main, strategic goals”,Naimsaid.

He said the Palestinian group's non-negotiabledemandsinclude:A final and total ceasefire, and not justahumanitarianpause;thetotal withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza; and freedom of movement forPalestinianswithinGaza.

Naim said Hamas was willing to be flexible on the timing and sequencingofitsdemands,aslong asthetotalceasefirebeginsonday one of the implementation of any agreement.

Withregardstotheexchangeof prisonersandcaptivesandplansfor Gaza's reconstruction, “there is some space for flexibility”, Naim added. “Hamas has shown great flexibility from the beginning to achieve a ceasefire because we know every added day to this slaughter means 100 to 150 more Palestinian civilians killed,” the officialsaid.

“People in the northern part of Gaza are dying because of starvation. We know exactly what this means. Our families are still there.” Naim said Hamas is also seeking guarantors such as Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, the United Nations, the US and Russia to ensure and verify that any deal is upheld by Israel. Meanwhile on Wednesday, Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh said that the group was ready to continuefightingifnecessary,even

-sayssenior Hamasofficial

if it showed flexibility in its negotiationswithIsrael.

SpeakingfromBeirut,hecalled on the Iran-led political and military coalition known as the “axis of resistance” to step up its support for Gaza through political leverage,moneyandweapons.“Itis the duty of the Arab and Islamic nations to take the initiative to break the starvation conspiracy in Gaza,” Haniyeh said, referring to whatPalestinianssayappearstobe adeliberatepolicybyIsraeltodeny them food by blocking

humanitarian aid from getting into Gaza. Haniyeh added that Israel is committing the worst atrocities known to humanity, including the extermination and displacement of civilians, and that any flexibility shown in negotiating with Israel must be matched by his group's willingness to defend the Palestinianpeople.

The Hamas leader called for Palestinians to march on Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem on the first day of Ramadan, which is likely to be on

Palestinians in Rafah walk past the rubble of a house destroyed by an Israeli strike, amid the ongoing war on Gaza [File: Saleh Salem/Reuters]

March 10, in protest at continued restrictions placed by Israel on access for Palestinians to the Muslimholysite.

“The siege of Al-Aqsa and the siege of Gaza are one and the same,” Haniyeh said Since October7,Israel'swaronGazahas killednearly30,000people–most ofthemwomenandchildren–and displacedmostofthepopulationof thebesiegedstrip.Some1.5million are sheltering in the city of Rafah, on the border with Egypt, as Israel threatensagroundinvasionthere.

...strikingteacherstellGovt.

‘How can I worry about other people's children and mine are in shambles?’

On Wednesday at the Ministry of Education on Brickdam striking teachers cried out that, it is almost impossibleforthemtoworryabout other people's children, when the pittance the government is giving them as a salary, can barely cover expensesfortheirownfamilies.

Sir Randy Mingo on Monday said that, “. They need to make us comfortable,wetoohavefamilies, how can I worry about other people's children and mine are in shambles? I don't know how to fully take care of mine because of themeagresalaryIamreceiving.I havetostressthatthishastodofor myself,myfamily,mykids,andby extension the kids under my control.”

Theeducatorexplained,thatas a teacher they are the second parents to the students, and on a daily basis they are approached by childrenundertheircarewhohave a vast number of challenges or needs. “We as teachers are second parents for these children, and so mostofourkidsoralotofourkids come to us with various needssome physical that we have to attend to and we literally use our moniestohelpoutthesechildren.”

Mingo noted that the pittance that teachers receive as a salary, which the government thinks is mammoth ,is just a speck to what the higher ups are enjoying. “The littlepittancethatwegetfromthe government that they think is so mammoth, is nothing in comparison to what they are enjoying. They are enjoying the good life but we as teachers are not.” A number of other teachers shared the same sentiments. Sir Abiva Cort, the Head of Department for Social Studies at President's College explained to thispublicationthattheonemonth absence away from school won't have any major impact on student especiallythosewhoarepreparing to sit the upcoming CXC and Common Entrance Exams. He said, “I don't think it would have anyeffectonthestudentsbecause you cannot measure this one month period that the students or theteacherswouldhaveexitedthe classroomstosaythatitwouldput

pressure on the education system.

(Simply) because our teachers, the teachersofGuyanaareknowntobe teachers that work. We are about thebestteachersintheCaribbean.”

“The Caribbean and the world at largeclamorforteachersofGuyana they reach out and try to get measures to get the teachers from Guyana to go further afield to deliver the curriculum so teachers have been working over the years andoverthemonthssothestudents are not at a disadvantage,” Cort added.

Anothereducatorwhohasbeen in the system for decades, Sir Marcelle Leonard told Kaieteur News that, “Well the government has to meet at the bargaining table fordiscussionforbettersalariesfor teachers. The teachers over the years have been going through tremendousstressintermsofweak salaryandinthesecircumstances,I think the government has the right to meet with the union to discuss betterwageswiththeteachersandI feel the teachers will have to carry on the struggle until the government comes to the bargainingtable.”

As the crowd built up, parents and students also joined the teachersshowingtheirfullsupport. Roxanne(onlynamegiven)whois also a teacher noted that, “The government should just pay the teachers so that the strike could end. They need to be reasonable and pay the teachers what they are asking for, even if it is not the amount they are asking for Give

Teachers a reasonable percentage that will satisfy them because it is unfair what teachers are getting in thiscountry.”

Another parent, Faye LaRose said that, “ They can pay the teacherstheyjustdon'tcare,butwe arehopingthatJagdeowillcometo his senses take shame out of his face, his heart will soften and he will give the teachers what they deserve.Thecanecutterswentout theotherdayandhedonepaythem what happen with the teachers. This man don't care a damn about us.”

As the strike continued across Guyana, teachers in Region Two were also in the streets protesting for a better salary In a live stream on Sir Martin Samaroo's page, FormerTeacherandLectureratthe Cyril Potter College of Education, Alex Kelley George during his addresstotheteacherssaidthat,“I havebeenateacherfor38years,I retired 2018 so I know of all the fights.” Giving a little history he told them, that it wasn't always Guyana Teacher's Union. A while back it was the Guyana Teacher's Association. The nationalising of schools is what sparked the changingofnametoaunion.

“The President could have never been the President if there wasn'tateacher Thefunnythingis that the President's father and mother were teachers. I worked with the father at Cornelia Ida Primary School from 1980-1984

andhewasaGTArepresentative,” he disclosed. In light of this the veteran feels that the President shouldhavesomeunderstandingof the teacher's plight and what they go through on a daily basis Education International (EI)– the global union federation which represents 32.5 million teachers and education workers in 178 countries has indicated that it will be raising the complaints of Guyanese teachers with the UN's International Labour Organisation (ILO),theGuyanaTeachersUnion (GTU) disclosed on Tuesday President of the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), Mark Lyte during a Facebook live recorded on the Union's page said that the international organisation has written a letter which is yet to be sent to the Minister of Education. Lyte said that EI had initially dispatched a letter to Education Minister, Priya Manickchand on February 16, 2024 expressing its concerns about the teachers' challenges Thus far, the organisation has received no acknowledgement from the government and has expressed its “disappointmentandconcern”.The GTU leader disclosed that in the secondletter,thatistobesenttothe Minister, the EI said it has no choice but to take the issue to the ILO if the Government of Guyana continues to ignore calls for negotiationsforbetterpaythrough thecollectivebargainingprocess.

Health Ministry gets $1.36M in medical supplies from Chinese Medical Delegation

TheChineseMedicalDelegationTeam on Wednesday donated $1.36 million in medicalsuppliestotheMinistryofHealth.

According to the Health Ministry, the donation which was presented to Minister ofHealth,Dr FrankAnthonywillbeforthe Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) to enhance the capabilities of key d e p a r t m e n t s s u c h a s t h e HepatopancreatobiliaryCenter,theGeneral SurgeryMinimallyInvasiveCenter,andthe TraditionalChineseMedicineCenter

Among the items donated to the ministry are: an Endo Next 4k ICG Endoscopic system, a Raynor Ultrasonic Surgical system, a Raynor Ultrasonic Surgicalscalpel,anOxygenConcentrator,a Laparoscopic Non-invasive Grip (Duck Bill), a Short Laparoscopic Non-invasive Grip, and a Long Laparoscopic NoninvasiveGrip.

Inhisbriefremarksatthehandingover ceremony, the minister stated the importanceofthecollaborationwithChina in fortifying Guyana's health sector He expressed profound gratitude for the continuous support provided by China and emphasized the need for the enduring partnership.

AmbassadoroftheChineseEmbassyin

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, Chinese Medical Delegation and other Health Officials.

The $1.36 million in medical supplies that were donated to the Health Ministry.

Guyana, Guo Haiyan in her brief comments explained the dedication of the new Chinese MedicalDelegationinfocusingonenhancingthe functionality of existing medical centres. She commended the efforts of the previous team in establishingsixmedicalcentersandreassuredof the current team's commitment to strengthening theiroperations.

Seven homeless after fire destroys house at Craig Old Road

Seven are reportedly homeless after a fire on Tuesday destroyed a house at 23 Craig Old Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

AstatementbytheGuyanaFireService (GFS),saidthatitwasinformedofthefire around10:26hrs.Firefightersarrivedonthe scene around 10:40hrs. “Upon arrival,

respondersencounteredatwo-storeywoodenand concrete building, the property of 73-year-old Josephine Throne, accommodating a family of seven”,theGFSstated.

The bottom flat of the house was slightly damaged but a significant part of the upper flat was destroyed. An investigation is currently underwaytodeterminethecauseoftheblaze.

Port Kaituma businessman nabbed with illegal gun, ammo and 'ganja’

A 35-year-old Port Kaituma businessman was arrested on Tuesday after he was allegedly caught with an illegal firearm with six matching ammunition andganja.

Police identified the manasAndrewWilliams of Train Line, Port Kaituma, North West District. According to a policereport,onTuesday between 19:05hrs and 19:50hrs, a gazetted officer and other ranks from Port Kaituma Station, conducted a search on the dwelling houseofWilliams.Police related that ranks found inside the house, one 9millimeter (MM) Pistol with one magazine containing six matching rounds of ammunition, along with a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspectedtobecannabis.

Williams w as reportedly questioned, if he was the holder of a firearmlicence,towhich he remained silent. The businessman was told of the allegations that were leveled against him and was taken to the Port Kaituma Police Station, where the suspected

Arrested: Andrew Williams

The firearm and ammunition that were found

The 299.7 grams of cannabis that was found

'Teachers, public servants deserve better’ – Norton

Noting that the ongoing strike action by teachers shouldbeaddressedurgently, Leader of the Opposition, AubreyNortonsaidallpublic servants deserve better and the nation's children deserve better In a statement on Tuesday, Norton expressed deep concern for the welfare of “our ed cators and, by u

extension, the future of our children. Education is the cornerstone of progress, and thededicationofourteachers is indispensable to the development of our nation. Our teachers must be adequately paid and operate in a comfortable student and t e a c h e r f r i e n d l y atmosphere.”Herecalledthat on6thFebruary2024,theday after the strike commenced, the Opposition in its Press Release said: “the Coalition stands firmly with the teachers of Guyana during thiscrucialtime...”.Wehave limitedourstatementsonthis matter until now, not out of apathy or indifference, but out of a sincere desire to prevent any misconceptions regarding the nature of this strike Contrary to the assertions of some, our restraint does not signify a lack of concern for the teachers, the inability to engage the government, or our unwillingness to address this issue comprehensively We have abstained from vociferous public discourse precisely because we do not wish this vital issue to be caught in partisan political conjecture.”

Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton

Norton said unlike Jagdeo, when he was in opposition,“weconsiderthis issue too important to be dragged into a partisan political squabble, and instead chose to allow the teachers to have their say in the hope that good sense would have prevailed and thatthegovernmentwouldat least have engaged with the GTUinanefforttobringthis matter to some level of resolution. We have been painfully reminded that this uncaring government has no such intention. It is now obviousthatthisimpassewill continueandassuchwehave chosen to make this statementbothtounderscore our support for the teachers and call the PPP/C government to task for its hard and unconscionable stance in not engaging with the teachers through their Unionforthegreatergood.”

Accordingtotheleaderof the opposition, the

governmentmaybethinking thattheydonotwanttoshow weakness and must hold out against all comers but let me be clear “This is not a time for one upmanship... Our teachers are suffering, our children are suffering, the vendorswhoworkaroundthe schools are suffering, the transportation workers who transport our students and teachers are suffering, every parent who has a child is suffering, all our people are suffering because this government considers itself abovethepeopleandrefuses to understand that they are there to serve rather than to dictate and we condemn this intransigence by the government in the harshest termspossible,”Nortonsaid.

He said it is a matter of public record that during the Coalition's tenure in government, when faced with a similar situation, the APNU/AFC government acceded to the demands of theteachers.

“This was not weakness or merely a political manoeuvre,butarecognition o f t h e i n v a l u a b l e contributionofoureducators to the development of our society We understood then, as we do now, that investing in education is investing in our nation's present and future. It is regrettable that the current regime has allowed this impasse to endure for so long, despite

Govt.injects$2Btodevelopnew watertreatmentplantatBath

The government, through the Ministry of Housing and Water,planstoinjects$2Bfor a new water treatment at Bath,Regionsothatresidents there and in surrounding communitieswillhaveaccess to improved service and a supplyoftreatedwater

This was disclosed by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal during the land title distribution exercise recently held at Fort Wellington,RegionFive.The minister noted that the plans areadvancedandtenderswill be soon out. “The tender is opening on March 12. So, before next year, all the persons who are living in Experiment will be getting treated water. That is becauseyourgovernmentis committed that by 2025 morethan90percentofthe population must be getting water through a treatment

source,” Minister Croal pointed out.Other works are being executed in various communities in the region to increasetreatedwateraccess. Some $350 million is being expended for the water treatment plant at Cotton Tree, which will benefit over 1 , 0 0 0 h o u s e h o l d s “Similarly,weareinstalling in-linefilters.Thisispartof our work for treatment plants at Perseverance, Farm, Weldaad, [and] Strath Campbell. Another $300 million,” the housing andwaterministernoted.

C u r r e n t l y, n e w

the availability of the oil revenuesasreferencedbythe recent trillion-dollar budget.

C l e a r l y, f o r t h i s administration, roads are more important than people. Cheddi Jagan, a leader who stood for the rights of the people,mustbeturninginhis grave.Thereis no doubt that monies are available to pay teachers and all public servants and the suggestion that the cost of raising salaries for teachers cannot be considered is untenable. Our children should not be held hostage to political brinkmanship The longer

thisstrikepersists,thegreater the harm inflicted upon the most vulnerable members of oursociety,”Nortonnoted.

He said government should note that by their actions, they are creating the conditions for all public servants to consider whether they too should come out on thepicketline,becauseasthe cost-of-living skyrockets wageshavenotkeptup.“The pooraregettingpoorerasthe rich thrive.And we all know who the rich are in this country Let me be unequivocal: when the APNU/AFC government

returns to power next year, we will prioritize the wellbeing of our teachers and all public servants We will ensurethatthebenefitsofour nation's resources meet the needs of all our public servantsandofallGuyanese, ratherthanaccruingsolelyto the elite, families, friend and favourites,ofthechosenfew The oil revenues that rightfully belong to the people of Guyana will be utilizedtoupliftallsegments of society, fostering a more justandprosperousnationfor generationstocome,”Norton asserted.

transmission lines are being installed from the treatment plant at Cotton Tree to Blairmont, providing the residents with an increased level of service. Extension worksarebeingundertakenat No.12,Perth,LovelyLass,El Dorado,Rosignol,No.8,and DeHoop,amongotherareas. In order to ensure that all the residentsinRegionFivehave accesstosafeandcleanwater, MinisterCroalsaid,“We are spending $501 million for the water sector. And upcoming, when we finish award the new plants, another$2.3billion.”(DPI)

WANTED VACANCY

Drivers, Porters and Salesman needed, experience will be an asset, Attractive salary offered. Call: 673-7373.

Drivers needed to work in Georgetown. Interested persons can Call: 701-4000 Mon-Fri, between 8am-4pm.

Wanted Carpenters and Labourers in Linden and Georgetown. Call: 602-9469, 660-6385 or 625-7642.

Vacancy for Sales Clerk. Call: 661-1000.

Interested in renting space for restaurants in Georgetown. Call: 712-8070.

Nanny needed 11 am- 7pm (Monday to Friday) and (Saturday) 10am-2pm. Contact : 678-5764 / 600-407

Workers needed to work on Cash Crop Farm, $6000 per day. Call: 679-7552.

Office assistant to work in Campbellville.Must be a licenced motorcycle rider. telephone: 621-5140

One filling clerk to work in office. Telephone: 621-5140

To purchase Antique or Vintage collectable souvenir Call or whatsapp 674-6452.

Indian Overseas male seeks female 35 years & older. Whatsapp: 602-9975.

Single male seeks a live in domestic partner, Light housework. Salary;-60,000. Call; 603-9085

LAND FOR SALE

44X80 located at Policeman Street, Dairy. 2 minutes away from Harbour Bridge, $11 mil neg. Call: 677-4286.

FOR RENT

2 bedroom apartment at C Field Sophia. Couples only, $50,000 per month. Call: 6403861.

One clerk for TSI Eccles office.English & Math, grade 1 or 2.Email application: techserigy@yahoo.com or call 615-9132.

Male Cleaner for Eccles. Call: 645-8443/ 615-9132.

One industrial Electrician needed. Call: 645-8443/ 6159132.

One Handy man & one night Watchman needed. Call: 6122125.

Optometrist/ Refractionist to join medical/ Eyecare practice. Must be registrable & licensed in the Oecs. Email application: Optipharminc@gmail.com

Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, Car/ Van licence. Call: 615-9132 or 645-8443.

Sales clerk and vehicle driver with licence for canter (truck licence) apply @ mikeswholesaledepot@yahoo.com or at their location.

One House-keeper, Must know to cook. Preferably from West coast Demerara. Contact: 680-4718

Aulicio Mining Inc is hiring Dredgemen, Porter &Truck Drive. Email: shebika@officegy.com or Call: 658-9158/ 619-5886.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, sproiler, crashbar, low mileage PTT Series (first owner). Contact: 649-0956.

1 Toyota Allion, Pioneer DVD, CD & USB deck, reverse camera, alarm, low milage. Excellect condition. Call: 649-0956.

FOR SALE

82-85 Canon and 72-60 Canon for sale. Call: 6303439/ 677-6780.

CDB approved over US$461M for development projects in 2023

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) approved over USD461 million in financing for projects in water, renewable energy, education, and health, and to provide budgetary support for governments, underscoring its continued commitment to regional development in 2023.

These approvals included USD125 million to The Bahamas and USD43 million to Saint Lucia for public financial management reforms and liquidity support. The funding will also enable interventions to upgrade infrastructure, reduce poverty, build climate resilience, and improve social services. In addition, the institution disbursed a record USD390 million for project implementation and technical assistance in 2023.

Speaking at the Bank’s Annual News Conference on

Tuesday, February 20, 2024, Director of Projects, Mrs. Therese Turner-Jones said, “Without a doubt, 2023 was an excellent year for the Bank as we moved closer to closing gaps in the region’s sustainable development agenda. Looking ahead to 2024, we anticipate greater advances, as we address outstanding infrastructure and social and economic priorities. Improving health, education, citizens’ security, and economic prosperity in the region remains our laser focus.”

Describing how CDB is “Supporting Resilient Prosperity”, Mrs. Turner-Jones highlighted that through the Basic Needs Trust Fund, the Bank has committed USD30 million for nearly 100 projects aimed at reducing poverty and fostering economic empowerment in some of the most underprivileged communities across the region. She also cited the Bank’s USD6 million Youth Economy Project in Saint Lucia which promotes

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Director of Projects, Mrs. Therese Turner-Jones youth entrepreneurship to reduce unemployment and curb crime.

The CDB Projects Director outlined a multi-faceted agenda for 2024, including major infrastructure projects such as a USD60 million upgrade of the Glass Window Bridge in the Bahamas and a USD36 million overhaul for the George Price Highway in Belize to increase safety and boost economic activity in

each roadway’s geographic reach. Another thrust is addressing the effects of gender-based violence through a partnership with UN Women to establish One-Stop Centers in Saint Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines that provide a comprehensive and coordinated response for those affected.

Turning to the Private Sector, Mrs. Turner-Jones stressed that the Bank is fo-

cused on improving the environment for commerce and industry, and support will include financial assistance, technical expertise, infrastructure investment, and policy advocacy.

Also, with a new thrust to embrace agility and collaboration in 2024, the Bank will focus on investigating and stemming the root causes of project implementation delays in its client countries. “While CDB is actively trying to mobilize resources where they are needed the most for development, we are aware of the challenges governments face with project implementation.

This year we are undertaking an extensive investigation to find the root causes of the lack of execution in the region. To build ability incountry we will facilitate “hands-on” support to improve procurement processes and we will make use of our upgraded digital systems to reinforce better monitoring and reporting on projects,” Mrs. Therese Turner-Jones said.

Government to rollout HPV testing in the public sector this year - Health Minister

The government of Guyana on Tuesday announced that it will be offering the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) tests to the public sector this year in a bid to tackle HPV.

The announcement was made by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony at the opening of the HPV Scientific Conference held at the Pegasus Corporate Suites, Kingston, Georgetown.

The conference was a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO).

The HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, which usually shows no symptoms and goes away by itself, but can sometimes cause serious illness. HPV is responsible for almost all cases of genital warts and cervical cancer. In light of that, an HPV test may be used to help identify people who have high-risk types of HPV and do need further followup tests or treatment.

Minister Anthony said, “HPV testing; right now it is unavailable in the public sector, there are some in the private sector but it is very expensive. The cost of an HPV

test in the private sector is $25,000…So we [the government] want to offer that [HPV tests] across the system.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Anthony expressed disappointment with the low rate of persons being vaccinated against HPV.

“In Guyana, we (government) had a remarkable track record, in terms of humanization for the children we give maybe about 15 antigens and our track record has been between 98 to 100 percent, but when it comes to the HPV vaccine, we are way, way, way down at the bottom,” he said.

The minister said the HPV Vaccine is very important. “If cervical cancer is the number 2 cancer among women and this is preventable by this vaccine, then we [the government] want to make sure that every child in this country is protected.”

The Minister noted that it is through the PAHO strategic fund that the government is able to offer the vaccines free to the country.

He explained the procedures, an individual will have to go through if tested positive for cancer.

“It’s a fraction of that cost, if you get that vaccine, on an economic point of view it is

much better for us to get everybody vaccinated to prevent this cancer from occurring,” Dr. Anthony explained.

Further, the Minister said his ministry intends to conduct a comprehensive cervical cancer programme

He said, “The first part of the programme we want to emphasize is prevention, how are we preventing this from happening? We need to have HPV vaccination.”

To this end the Minister said that the Ministry will make the HPV vaccine available not only to children aged nine to 15, but also from age 16 to 45.

Meanwhile, the Dr. Luis Codina, PAHO/WHO Representative in Guyana, spoke of the importance of the HPV conference and its relation to the elimination of cervical cancer in the future. He said the conference will also serve as a means of exchanging experiences between Guyana, Chile and Argentina.

He said, “We need to work very smart, in terms of route we have selected, the places, schools, for example, is an excellent place, but we need to work with teachers, to let them understand what really is this vaccine, and the benefits it has for the future.”

Govt. launches online portal for old-age pension, public assistance applications

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud at the launch of the online portal for old-age pension, public assistance applications

Persons eligible for pension and public assistance can now apply for these servicesfromthecomfortof their homes, as the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security launched its online application portal on Tuesday Minister of Human Services, Dr Vindhya Persaud explained that the initiativemarksasignificant step towards leveraging technology to enhance accessibilityand support for vulnerablecitizens.

Dr Persaud made the remarks during the simple launching ceremony held at the Ramada Princess Hotel, Providence, on Tuesday “It is my pleasure to launch a transformative initiative brought to you by the MinistryofHumanServices andSocialSecurity,onethat willchangethewayinwhich our services are accessed.

One that is inclusive, accessible,andharnessesthe power of information c o m m u n i c a t i o n technology,”shenoted.

The minister further underscored that the portal aligns with President, Dr. MohamedIrfaanAliandthe government’s overarching commitment to moving Guyana on the international stage of digital technology Theportalisbeingpilotedin Regions One, Four and Seven, and will later be extended to the remaining regions.

Minister Persaud affirmed the portal’s simplicity, noting that persons can visit the ministry’s website, select which application they are interestedin,filluptheform, andhitsend.

Applicants living with a permanent disability are required to complete the application process and

provideamedicalcertificate establishingtheirpermanent disability to complete the applicationprocess.Shortly, the ministry will provide an updated list of the classification of permanent disability, so persons are awareiftheyqualifyforthis benefit.

With the integration of thisnewservice,theminister noted that it makes the process of transitioning persons living with a permanent disability from receiving public assistance to pension significantly easier Additionally, there is an interface that allows persons to communicate with an agent for further assistance “It is our intention to make this process not only an online process where the internet willbecrucialbutanoffline process as well and this, I thinkisatremendousstepin the right direction,” she emphasised.

The minister further announced that special features will be introduced soontocatertopersonswho are blind and deaf, so they too can gain access to the platform from the comforts oftheirhomes.

Officers are also being trained in information and communication technology (ICT) to collect data from applicantswhoareinterested in using the old route of applyinginpersonontablets to mirror the online form. Meanwhile,comeMarch1,a nationwide verification exercisewillbeconductedto capture the information of every senior citizen and person living with a permanent disability Similarly, the ministry will be embarking on a massive nationwide awareness campaign to encourage persons to utilise the new facility (DPI)

Gazans in survival mode with cold nights and food rations

(BBC NEWS) This morning dawned with news of US President Joe Biden’s hopes for an imminent ceasefirebetweenIsraeland Gaza,butmanyontheGaza Stripcouldnotthinkbeyond scrapingtogetherbreakfast.

“Beforethewarweused

to buy bread, now we make it, ” said 26-year-old journalistAseel Mousa.The BBC has spent the day followingthelivesofpeople acrossGaza-astheyscoured markets for food, worked in overcrowded hospitals and tried to keep their children

entertained.

There were periods where we did not hear from our contacts - messages remained on one tick on WhatsApp and phone calls went to voicemail The Israel-Gazawareruptedon7 October when Hamas

gunmen infiltrated southern Israel, killing about 1,200 peopleandtaking253others hostage. About130arestill being held in Gaza, and we could not speak to them. Relatives in Israel are left waiting, with no idea of the conditions they are being held in. At least 29,800 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza’s Hamas-runhealthministry.

Thisisadayinthelifein Gaza.

“Any person in this situation has to get used to sleeping for an hour to an hour and a half only,” he says,describingthesoundof bombing. After getting out ofhistent,hepraysandthen heads to a distribution centre, where he will serve up lentil soup to displaced families. In the central city of Deir al-Balah, nurse Rewaa Mohsen changes the nappies of her two young daughters.Onewasborntwo daysbeforethewar Shesays each day now follows the same routine of trying to survive and care for her children After changing their nappies, she prepares breakfast Elsewhere in Deir al-Balah, 22-year-old medical student and volunteer doctor Nagham Mezied takes a photo of her breakfast. She used to eat at 06:00 but has recently been pushingitbacktotrytostave off hunger later in the day The dish this morning is called Mankouche - cheese, herbspepperandoliveoilon bread.

“ThisisallIeatuntilthe evening, if we are lucky to have another meal then, otherwise this is all until tomorrow.” Lawyer Mosa Aldous is walking in Rafah after a restless night in his tent. “It was so cold,” he says.Hecanseelongqueues for food and water, but his attention this morning is on finding an internet connection.”Now I am two kilometres away from my tent,tryingtofindsignalbut it is still very weak. I am slowly, slowly walking further from the tent,” he

Many Gazans in Rafah are living inside tents and struggling to keep warm at night

says. Journalist Aseel Mousa isalsoinRafah,butinaflat. She “seized the chance” to dosomeworkinthemorning after finding that she had power and an internet connection. Now, she is in the process of making bread with her mum. “We get wood, start a fire, make dough, put it into portions, letitrise.Thisiswhatwe’re doing now This process takes at least three hours,” shesays.Ataroundthesame time, there is excitement in RafahasMosaseesaidbeing delivered by plane. Crowds gatheronthebeach.

“Wesuddenlyheardloud noisesintheskysowentout and saw large aeroplanes t h r o w i n g a i d v i a parachutes,”hesays.Backat the food distribution centre, Sami Abu Omar says four bigpotsofsouphavealready been served up. “Today it’s cloudy and there might be rain soon Our mothers, when this kind of weather comes, make lentil soup, so we’ve done this too for the displacedpeoplesotheyfeel more like they’re at home,” he says. Aseel Mousa and her mum have finished making the bread, which they ate with tinned beans andeggs.

“It wasn’t nice, I don’t like canned food, but this is what is available in Gaza,” shesays.

“Iusedtoeatcheeseand toastinthemorningbutnow these kinds of food are not available.Soitwasn’tgood. But the bread was perfect because me and my mum prepared it.” In the past, she says, she would have ordered breakfast to her office: cinnamon rolls or pastries. She has sent her laptop to a neighbour who has solar panels so it can be charged.Shedoesthisevery day

Nurse Rewaa Mohsen is trying to keep her eldest daughterentertained.

“She has her cousins to play with. Also has toys,” she says over a WhatsApp message.“Wetrytokeepher

busy so she doesn’t hear the bombs.” She plans to nap soonwithhertwodaughters.

Back in Rafah, lawyer Mosa Aldous says he has given up on trying to find connection. Over a patchy line, he says he is with his family again in their tent.

Thelinegoesdead.Rewaa’s hopes of napping did not go toplan.Shesendsavideoof her daughter with her eyes wide looking at the camera and adds a grinning emoji.

“She refuses bottled milk. I gave her some in the first month and after that it was not available so she is dependant on breast milk,” shewrites.

“Mymumandonlysister werekilledinNovemberand I don’t have anyone to help me with them [her children] ” At al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital where she volunteers,NaghamMezied reflects on the “harsh realities of war” “Overflowing with displaced people seeking shelter - it has become a refuge for those who have losteverything:theirhomes, their loved ones, their sense of security” She says diseases are spreading and thattheyare strugglingwith shortages of basic equipment and supplies Rewaasendsapictureofher lunch-chickenwithpeppers and olives. She says the ingredients cost them more than$40(£32).Itwillbethe lastmealshewilleattoday

“We are blessed that we can afford two meals. Some peoplecan’taffordany,”she says As she feeds her daughters she thinks, too, about how rising prices are affecting caring for them. Her eldest daughter is wearing the same clothes as when the war began. She struggles to afford nappies. Aseel, the journalist, reminisces about her former life.

“Before the war at this time, I used to be coming backfromworktomyhome, andthenIwouldrelaxonmy bed and talk to my mum aboutmyday

T&T miss out after 0-3 loss to group winners Canada; Haiti also through with Jamaica to be confirmed

SportsMax - Trinidad and Tobago missed out on a spot in the Concacaf Men’s Under20 Championship round, after they were beaten 3-0 by Canada in their final Group D qualifying contest at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Tuesday.

Myles Morgan (10th), Santiago Lopez (54th) and Kevaughn Tavernier (79th) got the goals for Canada, who secured the coveted top spot with nine points, as Trinidad and Tobago had to settle for second on six points.

St Vincent and the Grenadines ended their campaign on a high with a dramatic 3-2 win over Dominica, to finish third in the group on six

points.

Frankroy Cain (10th), Kirtney Franklyn (44th) and Steven Pierre (90+2) found the back of the net for St Vincent and the Grenadines, while Dominica got goals from Ajani Richards (40th) and Keeyan Thomas (90+5).

By virtue of topping the group, Canada along with Group E winners, Haiti, progressed to the Concacaf Championships round where the top six teams –United States, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Costa Rica and Dominican Republic -awaits.

The final round will be staged in Mexico in July, where four spots to the 2025 FIFA Under-20 World Cup will

be up for grabs.

After securing two wins early on, Haiti did just enough to secure the point needed for group honours in a 1-1 stalemate with Puerto Rico.

That top-of-the-table clash in St Kitts and Nevis, saw Fabian Menendez (39th) putting Puerto Rico in front, before Joseph Belmar (71st) secured the precious equailiser for the Frenchspeaking Caribbean nation.

Group host Saint Kitts and Nevis gave locals something to celebrate as they topped Cayman Islands 3-0 in a game of academic interest. De Quan Hamilton (16th, 45+1, 81st) got all three goals for the young Sugar Boyz.

Thursday February 29, 2024

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

Are you an artist, writer, or musician, Aries? If so, your work may take on a more symbolic or impressionistic tone. Today you're probably more interested in conveying feelings and impressions than details.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

Innovative art forms might seem especially appealing today, Taurus. Stay out of gallery shops unless you're prepared to take home a carload of merchandise.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

Do you believe in ghosts?

Some strange phone calls, emails, or other communications may come your way today, Gemini. One may come from someone who thinks you're someone else.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

An unexpected sum of money could come your way today, Cancer. It probably won't be large, but it will be welcome nonetheless.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

Have you been exercising too rigorously lately, Leo? If so, you might feel some little aches and pains. Stay off your feet for most of the day.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22)

You may feel indecisive today, Virgo, especially in the morning. Other people's actions may confuse you. Don't worry. Concentrate on your projects and goals.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

Are all of your friends into astrology, divine science, or spiritual matters, Libra? It might seem like most of them are today, anyway. You may have many new friends in those fields.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

A love partner may host a social event or meeting of some kind, Scorpio. It might be interesting to get acquainted with friends of your mate you haven't yet met.

SAGIT (Nov.22–Dec.21)

Are you contemplating a trip, Sagittarius, perhaps to a place you've always dreamed of visiting? If you're in doubt as to whether or not you can do it.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) The Material values may pale beside spiritual ones today, Capricorn. You might consider giving up the rat race and retreating to the wilderness.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

A current or potential romantic partner might seem like the most perfect, wonderful person in the world to you, Aquarius. Your romantic nature could get the better of you today.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

You might not be able to concentrate on your work today, Pisces. Your head may be in the clouds and your eye for detail could fail you somewhat.

Meanwhile, Jamaica’s young Reggae Boyz will be aiming to join Canada and Haiti in the next round, as they only require a point against Bermuda in yesterday’s Group F decider.

Jamaica, on six points are three ahead of Bermuda, on three and, as such, only needs to avoid defeat in the feature contest in St Kitts and Nevis, to confirm their spot in the next round.

Martinique, who also have three points, could make things interesting provided they defeat Grenada by a wide margin in the curtain-raiser, and Jamaica lose by a single goal to Bermuda.

Elsewhere on Tuesday:

Group A

British Virgin Islands topped Belize 4-3 in a sevengoal thriller at the Estadio Nacional in Managua, Nicaragua.

BVI got their goals from Azarni Callwood (38th, 45+2), Curtis Lane (40th) and Johari Lacey (70th), while the Belize goals were produced by Jaheim Mena (16th), Isaac Taegar (54th) aFelix Martinez (58th).

Host Nicaragua, moved to the summit of the group on nine points, following their 50 hammering of Anguilla. Oliver Bello (19th), Francis Castillo (37th), Juban Uriarte (53rd), Andres Martinez (60th) and Kenler Cayasso (69th) got the job done for Nicaragua.

Group B

Antigua and Barbuda and Suriname continue to chart the course in the battle for group honours, as both registered wins at the ABFA Technical Centre.

Suriname topped Guyana 4-1 courtesy of goals from

Matthews’ 55 not enough...

From page 24 with a top score of 57 off 31 balls including six fours and four sixes.

Healy was more measured in her approach, making a 29ball 33 including five fours.

The finishing touches were put on by Grace Harris and Deepti Sharma who made 38* and 27*, respectively.

Harris’ innings came off just 17 deliveries and included six fours and a six while Sharma’s knock came off 20 balls and included four fours.

Pacer Issy Wong took 2-30 off three overs for the Indians.

Robinio Pinas (7th), Jermaine Rijssel (35th), Djaier Prijor (85th) and Donagay Misidjang (89th). Matrim Martin (76th) got Guyana’s consolation.

Antigua and Barbuda emerged 2-1 victors over Turks and Caicos Islands in the second game.

Javaughn Jarvis (54th) and Christopher Douglas (82nd) scored for Antigua and Barbuda, before Christopher Louisy (90+4) pulled one back for Turks and Caicos Islands.

Both Suriname and Antigua and Barbuda are on six points, but the former has a game in hand.

Group C

Group C also remains evenly poised between Curacao and host nation Guatemala.

This, as Curacao clipped Barbados 1-0 to move to the summit of the group, while Aruba blanked St Martin 4-0 at the Estadio Doroteo Guamuch Flores in Guatemala City.

Luigi Iniesa (31st) got the all-important strike for Curacao that moved them to the top on seven points, one ahead of Guatemala, who has a game in hand.

Joachim Kruydenhof (19th, 39th) and Connor Van Kilsdonk (41st, 45th) both bagged a brace in Aruba’s win.

President Ali, Sir Clive Lloyd among speakers as part of Reunion Dinner

- Clyde Butts T20 Memorial set for Sunday March 3 at Everest

Guyana’s historic

1983 cricket t e a m , w h o dominated the respective Shell Shield 1st Class along w i t h t h e G e d d e s Grant/Harrison Line 50Overs tournaments, is expected to be honoured with a packed-schedule, featuring a Reunion Dinner setforFridayatthePrincess Ramada Hotel, East Bank Demerara.

In recognition of the team’s success during the 80’s,ledbyonethespeakers atFriday’supcomingdinner, SirCliveLloyd,anumberof events have been planned, with the Clyde Butts T20

tournament

the programme in recognition of a few members in the team who passed.

The exciting T20 match issetfortheEverestCricket Club Ground, Carifesta Avenue, will bowl off from 14:00h with teams wearing whiteinhonoroftheirfallen comrade,whotragicallylost his life during a vehicular accident back in December of2023.

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) will be fielding a GCB Select XI team, featuring a number of former national cricketers. Some of the names set to be

on show as part of the GCB squad, Lennox Cush, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Reon King, Colin Stuart, Neil Barryandotherswhoplayed for Guyana/West Indies in the past, while sharing history with Butts and membersofthe1983team.

Ramada(Princess)Hotel willhosttheeventonFriday which will be heavily attended by the cricket fraternity,ledbyPresidentof the Republic of Guyana Dr Irfaan Ali, who will deliver the feature address. Other top speakers include GCB president Bissoondyal Singh, Secretary Ronald Williamsandothers.

Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association members to sponsor DCB Inter Association U19 championship

- General Marine makes contribution

Anil Beharry (2nd left) receives the donation from General Marine boss Rahaman Khan.

Members of the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) will onceagainsponsortheDCB Inter Association Under19 Cricket Tournament which will commence shortly GFSCA is known for pioneering softball cricket locally and internationally Thetournamentwillinvolve the five associations, Upper Demerara, East Bank, East Coast, West Demerara and Georgetownandplayedona round robin format with the toptwoteamsqualifyingfor the final. The final will be live streamed across the globe.

The tournament is the main yardstick used by the

selection panel to select the DemerarateamfortheGCB Inter County Under19 Tournament.

The tournament will be branded under Trophy Stall/Ramchand’s Auto

S p a r e s / A r i e l Enterprise/Rohan Auto

S p a r e s / S t e v e ’ s

J e w e l r y / P e t a m a

E n t e r p r i s e / M o t o r

Trend/Cricket Equipment

G u y a n a / G e n e r a l Marines/TerryMathura.

At a simple ceremony held recently, Rahaman Khan popularly known as Buddy Rahaman, Managing Director and owner of General Marine, located at 231 Middle Street,

Georgetown, presented a cheque to Anil Beharry, Marketing Manager of the GCB.

General Marines is a distributor of Marine Equipment, Motor Cycles, Power Products, Bearings andLicensedFireArmsand Ammunition dealer Khan expressed his delight to be part of the development of young cricketers in Demerara,GuyanaandWest Indies. Beharry thanked the sponsor for his contribution to this very important championship.

The DCB takes this opportunitytosaythankyou to all the sponsors for comingonboard.

Australia thump Uzbekistan 10-0 to seal Olympic berth

M E L B O U R N E , (Reuters) - Michelle Heyman scored four firsthalf goals as Australia demolishedUzbekistan100 yesterday to book their place in the women’s soccer tournament at the ParisOlympics.

Havingwonthefirstleg of the Olympic qualifier 30 on a freezing day in Tashkent, Australia were ruthless on a stifling night at Melbourne’s Docklands stadium where Heyman’s haul thrilled a sell-out crowdof54,120.

“It was very special,” saidMatildascaptainSteph Catley

“Everything we sort of setouttodowe’vedoneso it’s a proud moment for us to get to another Olympics.”

With Sam Kerr and KyahSimonsidelinedwith

injury, Heyman has made the most of her first internationalmatchesinsix years, scoring in both legs against the world number 47Uzbeks.

At Docklands, the 35year-oldforwardhadahattrick after 16 minutes and slotted her fourth in stoppage time before the break.

Subbed off in the second half, Heyman was unable to add to her tally but may have already convinced coach Tony Gustavsson to include her inhissquadforParis.

Defender Kaitlyn Torpey also got on the scoresheet in the 22nd minute, along with Mary Fowler (36th) and Caitlin Foord (38th) as the Matildas stormed to an 8-0 leadathalftime.

A dreary night for

Uzbekistan soccer grew gloomierstillasgoalkeeper Maftuna Jonimqulova was injured in a goalmouth clash and was carried off thepitchonastretchersoon aftertherestart.

Australia’s scoring dried up in the second half after Gustavsson rejigged his lineup but substitute Amy Sayer completed the rout in stoppage time after HayleyRaso’s68th-minute strike.

Women’s World Cup semi-finalists Australia, whoqualifiedfortheirthird successive Olympics, will bid for a maiden medal at Paris three years after making the semi-finals at Tokyo.

JapanbeatNorthKorea 2-1 in the other qualifierto book their ticket to Paris, afterthetwosidesdrew0-0 intheirfirstleg.

Dominant debut: Western Tigers roar with a 10-0 victory, Ann’s Grove shine with 3-0 win

In a s t a n d o u t performance on Tuesday night, Western Tigers FC recorded a huge 10-0 win against Buxton United FC, while Ann’s Grove FC clinched a noteworthy 3-0 victory againstFrutaConquerorsFC in their opening matches of the KFC Elite League SeasonSix.

Enthusiastic fans at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) National Training Centre(NTC)inProvidence, East Bank Demerara, witnessed Western Tigers, the second-placed team in KFC Season Five, seized control of the game right fromtheoutset.

The scoring spree began with goals from Andrew Murray in the 4th and 11th minutes,followedbyTrayon Bobb in the 15th The

momentum continued with Randolph Wagner finding the net in the 53rd and 57th, and Chai William contributing in the 66th and 90+2ndminutes.

Anthony Abrams added totheexcitementwithagoal in the 77th minute, while Jeremaine

Beckles wrapped up the scoring in the 83rd and 90th minutes.

With this win, Western Tigers now lead the table withthreepoints,sharingthe summit with Slingerz and GuyanaDefenceForce,who alsohavethreepoints.

Earlier Tuesday night, Ann’s Grove FC established the scoring momentum with their victory through goals scoredbyKevinWilliamsin the 37th, an own goal by Mark Carrega in the 59th, and Jaden Vongronigen in

the77th.

Theleaguekickedoffon SundayattheNTCwithtwo thrilling matches, as Slingerz FC secured a commanding 7-0 victory over Monedderlust FC, while defending champions Guyana Defence Force narrowly triumphed 2-1 againstSantosFC.

The early stages of Season Six have already witnessedatotalof23goals.

Completingthelistoften elite football clubs are Guyana Police Force and DenAmstel.

Atotalof90matcheswill be played at venues in Georgetown, West Coast Demerara, East Bank DemeraraandBerbice.

The competition is fierce with participating teams aiming for the coveted top spot and the

Forde sets sights on ProLeague within two years

With ambitions to establish Guyana’s first professional football league within two years, Wayne Forde, president of the Guyana Football Federation ( G F F ) , o ff i c i a l l y inaugurated the 2024 KFC Elite League on Sunday evening. Forde heralded the GFF Elite League as a pivotal moment for football’s growth and developmentinGuyana.

Servinghisthirdtermas head of the country’s football governing body, Forde emphasized the federation’s commitment to enhancing club operations and governance through increased funding, resources, and technical support. “This is a future in which players will have professional contracts with their clubs and will be handsomely compensated fortheirworkanddedication to improving their craft as footballers,”Fordesaid.

Highlighting Guyana’s position as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, Forde stated, “We have the fundamental buildingblockstocreatethe leadingprofessionalfootball League in the Caribbean for bothmalesandfemales.”

Addressing attendees,

substantial G$2,000,000 first-place cash prize. The second, third, and fourthplace finishers are set to

receive G$1,200,000, G$800,000,andG$500,000, respectively Next up: Guyana

Defence Force will take on Den Amstel on Thursday, February 29 at 7p.m. at NTC.

Glories Business flew the Canje flag high...

Frompage25 lumber, and I now provide services from forest to your home, and my business developed over the last 13 years, and that is when my dream of owning a racehorse, turnedintoreality.”

also want horses that are being imported or bred in Guyana to be offered at reasonable pricesfortheordinarymantolivehisdream andownonelikeme.Thereareplentymore peoplewhohavethatdream.”

stakeholders to improve football infrastructure nationwide.

Fordeexpressedgratitudefor thecollectiveeffortthatledto the league’s launch, accentuatingthesignificance of hosting the opening ceremony at Guyana’s first purpose-built National Training Centre, now the official hub of the country’s football.

Forde underscored the importance of the league’s inaugurationunderthenewly installedFIFA-standardflood lighting and scene control systems, marking a significant milestone in Guyana’s football history

Acknowledging FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s support through the FIFA Forward Programme, Forde expressed appreciation for the assistance in developing theNationalTrainingCentre and other infrastructure projects. Forde stressed the need for similar football facilities across Guyana and pledged to collaborate with the government and other

He lamented, “High qualityfootballfacilitiesare the bedrock of our shared aspirations as a nation, to achieve football excellence on the global football stage. My administration will continue to work closely with the Government and State of Guyana and other key stakeholders in pursuit of an aggressive national overhaul of football infrastructure.ThisIknowis wellwithinourmeans.”

Looking ahead, Forde outlined the upcoming season’s excitement, with 90 highly competitive matches scheduled at the National Training Centre He encouraged players to capitalize on the state-of-theart facilities to impress fans and national team scouts.

Forder thanked all football stakeholders, particularly BACIF, NAMILCO, Courts Guyana,BlueWaterShipping, MVP Sports, Guyana BeverageInc andpremiertitle sponsor KFC Guyana, pointing out that their investmentwillfuelcountless moments of intense battles on the pitch, exciting victories, heart-breaking losses and many, many captivatingstories.

Gettingintoownershipherevealed,“The firsthorseIownedwasaGuyana-bredFree Money, but it should have been named No Success. I had no success. Then the next horseIboughtwasPocoyo,aTrini-bredcolt. Hefinishedsecond,andthenIboughtUSAbred colt Glories Business, and now I am smitten by the racing bug to own more horses.“

Explainingwhatadvice,hecouldimpart to those who wants to get involved in the sport,andwhathewouldliketoseedonein thehorseracingindustryhestated,“Iamin thesportfortheloveofit.Yes,itcostmoney, butitcreatesemploymentalso.Iwanttosee our industry grow to international level. I

In closing, Big G thanked two young men,andeldergentlemanfordevelopingthe sport,andtheirwilltokeepitalivepointing out, “Jumbo is the person who continue to supportthesport,andheisblessedwithason like Junior (Nasrudeen Mohamed). Chris Jagdeo’ssonTurbo(TherbhuwanJagdeo)is alsodoingagreatjobforusacrossthebridge.

The sons of the soil and their father are blessed.Theseboysarededicatedtoseethe sport improve and recognized for One Guyana. Iamcallingonsponsorstogeton board and help sponsor the sport, as it is an industry that creates lots of employment. Horse racing will bring overseas visitors to Guyana,andbusinesseswillbenefitfromit.

Sopleasestartgivinguptoget.”

Matthews’55notenoughasMumbaiIndians losetoUPWarriorzbysevenwicketsinWPL

SportsMax - West

IndiesT20IandODIskipper

Hayley Matthews struck a top score of 55 but it wasn’t enough to prevent her Mumbai Indians Women from going down by seven wickets to the UP Warriorz Women in their Women’s Premier League (WPL) f i x t u r e a t t h e M

Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluruyesterday

Propelled by Matthews’ 47-ballknockincludingnine fours and a six, Mumbai posted 161-6 from their 20 oversafterbeingputintobat bytheWarriorz.

TheBajanreceivedgood

Windies O60s narrowly lose to Wales by 10 runs and drop out of top 4 spots in the IMC O60s Cricket World Cup - Windies faced off against USA yesterday

AWest Indies T20I and ODI skipper Hayley Matthews struck a top score of 55.

support fromYastika Bhatia with 26 and Amelia Kerr with 23. The Warriorz then needed only 16.3 overs to reach 163-3 and get their firstwinoftheseason.

Openers Alyssa Healy

and Kiran Navgire all but killed any chance of a Mumbaivictorywitharapid openingpartnershipof94in just9.1overs.

Navgireledthecharge (Continuedonpage21)

t the start of the match, Windies knew they had to win this match to ensure a finalstandingof1stor2ndin theirpoolbutthatwasnotto be as Wales put in a sterling performance to come out on topofanexcitingmatch.

Waleswonthetossandas expected, chose to bat on anothereventrack.

They started very cautiouslyandlost2wickets by the 9th over with just 30 runsontheboard.

Thereafter, opener Neil Williams found a useful ally in Stuart Carpenter where they put together 120 runs for the 3rd wicket before Neil got out for 41.

Powell then joined Carpenter and they put together a useful 46 run partnership.

Carpenter struck a wonderful century, 101 off 90ballswith9boundaries& 3 maximums. Wales innings closed at 264 for 5 wickets. Bowling for the Windies, Boyke had 2 for 24 and Keith Seale took 2 for 41

In reply, Windies started very positively even though theylostMukeshSookramin thefirstover Deyal joined Mike Heeralall and they put

Emmerson Jordan was named the Fighter of the Match for the WI.

together 57 in 11 overs beforeMikethrewhiswicket away just when he was lookingwellset.

Deyaldepartedverysoon afterat65for3afterhimself and Roy Singh got bogged down for a few overs and wereunabletogettheballoff thesquare.

Roy made just 14 off 41 balls to be 4th person out at 96, then 3 other quick wickets- Richard Sieuchan for 24 @118, ZaminAminat131(14)

When Keith Seale got out at 141 for 7 very few persons thought that West Indies would have gotten to 200 much less to challengethescoretowin

Emmerson Jordan and

Tony Boyke had other plans as they put together 70 runs in 7 5 overs before Boykedeparted Jordan was then joined by Ramsingh where they put together 39 runs in 3 1 overs with Ramsingh contributing 26 (3 @4s and 1 @ 6) Needing 12 runs in the final over, Harvey got a single off the 1st ball to give Jordan the strike but he was caught at the mid-wicket boundary attempting a maximum Jordan finished on a masterful 42 with 2 @ 4s and3maximums Richard Harris, Mark Davies and C Hudson each took2wicketstostranglethe WestIndians.

MembersoftheGuyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) will onceagainsponsortheDCB Inter Association Under19 Cricket Tournament which willcommenceshortly

GFSCA is known for pioneering softball cricket locally and internationally Thetournamentwillinvolve thefiveassociations,Upper Demerara, East Bank, East Coast, West Demerara and Georgetownandplayedona roundrobinformatwiththe toptwoteamsqualifyingfor thefinal.

The final will be live streamed across the globe. The tournament is the main yardstick use by the selection panel to select the DemerarateamfortheGCB Inter County Under-19

Tournament.

The tournament will be branded under Trophy Stall/Ramchand’s Auto S p a r e s / A r i e l Enterprise/Rohan Auto S p a r e s / S t e v e ’ s J e w e l r y / P e t a m a E n t e r p r i s e / M o t o r

Trend/Cricket Equipment G u y a n a / G e n e r a l Marines/TerryMathura.

At a simple ceremony held recently, Chanderpaul Mohamed, Manager of Cricket Equipment Guyana presentedtheballstoVicky Bharosay, treasurer of the DCB.

Thepopularsportsstore operates out of Bel Air Rubis Service Station and willprovideredballsforthe entiretournament.Theballs are original SS Sunridges

Cricket World made by Sareen Sports Industry, Meerut, India Cricket Equipment Guyana is the authorizeddistributoroffall SS branded cricket equipmentinGuyana.

Mohamed thanked the DCB for giving his c o m p a n y a n o t h e r opportunity to support this very important tournament. He also said that they are happy to be part of the development of young cricketers in Demerara, Guyana and West Indies. Bharosay thanked the sponsor for his contribution to this very important championship.

The DCB takes this opportunitytosaythankyou to all the sponsors for comingonboard.

Glories Business flew the Canje flag high at flag Jumbo Jet’s Horse race ...dreambecomesreality

Glories Business and Connections embracing the winning moment at Rising Sun.

Wishful thinking or dreams take different forms and courses. Only when it becomes a reality, some recognise or believe an externalforceansweredtheir prayers,whileothersbelieve indetermination.

For businessman, Glen (Big G) Seubaran it was a combination of both when on Sunday Glories Business gave him his first success in the Sport of Kings - horse racing.

Coming from a very

humble background, and a similar environment, # 2 Village, East Canje, East Berbice where villagers owned horses for the fun of it, that childhood desire to onedayownaracehorsewas achieved.

Big‘G’asheisfamously known related, “I always love horse racing. I grew up inanenvironment(EastNo2 Village East Canje, East Berbice) where the people hadracing,andhorsesallthe time,andthatinfluencedmy

thinkingwhenIwasabout13 yearsold.”

Big G a leading supplier of lumber in Canje recalled, “I will dream as any youngsterwould,aboutwhat they want to do, or become. My desire was to own a racehorse, and I was fortunate to own more than one horses, and to enjoy the pleasureofhavingonewina raceforme.”

Reliving the feeling and joy when Glories Business passed the finish line at

Rising Sun Turf Club (RSTC) on Sunday’s sixth race (E Class Sprint) over 1,100 metres beating the highly regarded Early Bird Big G recounted, “It was a joy, and feeling that is unexplainable I am a successful businessman in the lumber industry, but the thinking of owning a racehorse coming from a very humble upbringing produces tears of joy, and happiness23yearslater.”

“I am dedicating Glories

Glories Business impressed on Sunday last.

Businesswintothepeopleof Canje, and the fans. I want him to become the Champion Sprinter in Guyana this year This success will not be possible withouttheteamworkofmy trainer Seetahal Samaroo, and his staff. These are the people who are least recognised,buttheydeserve to, because of their dedication, and hard work,” BigGdeclared.

T h e s e l f - m a d e businessman,whorosefrom

an ordinary citizento one of the leading entrepreneurs in thelumberindustryadvised, “Nevergiveup,therewillbe struggles, such as finances, customers, and the supply chain. Those challenges are what makes you strong and prepareyouforsuccess.”

Hethenexplained,“AsI grew older, I started to learn the intricacies of business. I became a contractor, and from there I saw the opportunitytosupply

(Continuedonpage23)