Guyana Times - Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Caricom agrees with stakeholders on interim Presidential Council to replace Haitian PM …Presidential Councillors to be barred from running in future elections

Con the table were agreed to by the stakeholders. This includes an agreement for the establishment of a Presidential Council, which would help identify an interim Prime Minister

Contain crisis

As it relates to the rapidly-declining security situation in Haiti, the Barbados Prime Minister said all stakeholders

bloc has announced that a Presidential Council will be established to guide Haiti towards elections and the restoration of order.

This announcement was made by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, when she addressed the media at a press conference following talks on Monday. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Guyana’s President and current Caricom Chairman, Dr Irfaan Ali, as well as other regional Heads.

Mottley said that 80-90 per cent of proposals put

and replace the current one, Ariel Henry.

“At this point in time, we felt that it was important for us to state that of the proposals received, all of them, 80-90 per cent of them put on the table were more or less the same thing by the stakeholders,” Mottley said.

Further, Mottley explained that the new Prime Minister would work with the Presidential Council to establish a Government. Additionally, a provisional electoral council would be established as a critical institution.

agreed on the need to urgently contain this crisis. Further, she said that the establishment of the Presidential Council would critical to achieving this aim.

Meanwhile, Mottley

noted that as a regional community, Caricom has agreed with its international partners on four principles. These include that persons on the Presidential Council should not run in any future elections in Haiti.

“There are some principles, that also came out of our consultations with everyone. Not necessarily everyone agreeing to them, but reinforcing them. As a regional community and with our international partners, we have agreed on these principles that we believe to be critical to garner support of Caricom and the international community,” Mottley said.

Meanwhile, President Ali noted that during the discussions, stakeholders and Caricom leaders were able to have “a broader understanding of the situation and to have your ideas and to listen to you, because that is our primary task in finding solutions that come out of your own communication and consultation and your own working together in finding solutions”.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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The role of an Opposition

Over a decade ago, the former Harvard professor and Canadian politician, Michael Grant Ignatieff, offered some profound insights at Oxford University, gleaned from his two tenures, on the practice of politics in a democracy, especially from the perspective of an Opposition Leader, which he was:

“Opposition for opposition’s sake is the modus operandi of most parties out of power, but it is precisely the political “game playing” that active and attentive voters so despise, wishing politicians would support or oppose measures on merit alone. Realistically, legislators rarely decide measures on merit alone, and Opposition politicians generally oppose Government measures whatever their merits.

“The Opposition’s duty indeed is to oppose and, through criticism and amendment, to make legislation serve the public interest. Government measures are put to the test of adversarial justification in committee and in the chamber itself. The Opposition is called “loyal”, to remind the public that, for all the venom of parliamentary debate, the Opposition is integral to the proper functioning of a democratic system. Indeed, it is in Opposition that you are supposed to learn how to govern. In a functioning democracy, all parties in Opposition properly deserve to be treated as a government in waiting, though the Government in office and the media rarely do. In a free society, one would expect Government and Opposition to compete on equal terms. In reality, the media accord the Government a platform the Opposition can only envy.

“One of the defining features of a proper democracy is that it must “normalise” and “naturalise” disagreement, for it is through structured disagreement that democracy arrives at its roughand-ready version of the public interest. Adversarial justification is democracy’s chosen method for establishing the public good. If so, opponents are supposed to accept each other’s basic loyalty and legitimacy.

“Democracy is, or ought to be, a politics of adversaries, never a politics of enemies. An adversary today is a potential ally tomorrow. An enemy can never become an ally. An enemy is to be destroyed. The politics of compromise is impossible unless the Opposition enjoys the status of a loyal and legitimate adversary.

“Democracy, being a system of structured antagonism, must find ways to contain the emotions that antagonism inevitably arouses. The representative function demands restraint in the face of the temptation to think of politics in the metaphors of war, as a battle in which no holds are barred.

“When adversaries grapple for power, it is only too easy to treat each other as enemies. A democratic politician has to keep asking himself whether, in his attack on an opponent, he has crossed the line that separates legitimate public criticism from mendacious advantage-seeking. In the heat of the moment, the line can be hard to discern, let alone respect. Winning at all costs becomes a self-sufficient justification. Where democracy has gone under, as in Weimar Germany, the politics of adversaries was replaced by a politics of enemies, and politics soon spilled out of the legislature into the streets, where violence soon settled all questions.

“Democracy has proved its resilience, but at a cost. Public disenchantment with excessive partisanship is nearly universal in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. For a considerable portion of the active democratic public, “politics” itself has acquired a bad name. The word has degenerated into a term of abuse for any form of spiteful, dogmatic, rhetorical game-playing, whose essential purpose is to obscure rather than reveal the essential public issues at hand.

“Nevertheless, democracy itself does offer a remedy for excessive partisanship. Electorates relish combat, and they like fighters, but they frequently punish those who hit below the belt, and by sanctioning bad behaviour at the polls, voters help ensure that democratic combat remains a contest between adversaries, not enemies.

“Indeed, we should add this to our original list of essential conditions of democratic health. Democratic representation works when institutions control corruption, when the debate is sufficiently truthful to allow democracy to address society’s real problems, when a culture of public service survives, and finally when democratic opponents treat each other as adversaries, not as enemies.”

Commonwealth Day

On March 11, some 2.5 billion of us came together to celebrate the Commonwealth family. Seventy-five years after the London Declaration, I joined this family’s many nations, faiths and communities at a service at Westminster Abbey.

I was Prime Minister when the Commonwealth agreed a new Charter, a milestone in our family’s history. For the first time, we had a single document setting out our core values and shared goals.

Today, as Foreign Secretary, I want our family of nations working in partnership to uphold these values and fulfil these goals. I am proud of the work Commonwealth members do in partnership in areas ranging from the rule of law to protecting the environment.

We are bound together by our many connections and inspired by our incredible diversity. This makes us a strong and respected voice in the world, capable of addressing global challenges. It means all our citizens can benefit from belonging to this family in their dai-

ly lives. Thanks to our strong ties, the cost of trade between Commonwealth members is more than 20 per cent lower than the costs of trading with non-Commonwealth members.

We have made enormous strides in recent years in empowering women and girls, backing 4000 businesses owned by women across the Commonwealth to become more competitive.

And we are working hard together to promote our values. The Commonwealth came together to stand by Guyana when it was threatened. And Commonwealth missions have observed dozens of elections since we agreed our new Charter.

The bonds our family shares matter all the more as we face great global challenges. I believe this is especially true for our small island members. Our Charter recognised their particular needs in building their resilience, especially in the face of climate change. This global challenge impacts these States relatively more given their geography.

It is to our families that we turn when we are most in need. I want these states to know they can turn to their Commonwealth family today.

We have a major opportunity this year. The Commonwealth Heads of Government will be meeting in a Pacific island country for the first time, gathering in Samoa this October. This gathering takes place a few months after the once-in-a-decade UN Small Island Developing States Conference in Antigua and Barbuda this May.

These States are already harnessing the power of nature to tackle the causes and impacts of climate change. Just look at Papua New Guinea, protecting some of the world’s most important forests, on which we all depend. Or take the 16 Commonwealth small island states working as part of the global coalition committed to

protecting at least 30 per cent of the world’s ocean by 2030.

We can offer much more support to these efforts. Britain is doubling its provision of international climate finance. And last autumn the Prime Minister made our biggest-ever contribution to the Green Climate Fund, the largest global fund to support developing countries in responding to climate change.

This will help. But the biggest challenge these States face is accessing the international funding itself. Despite being low emitters uniquely exposed to the threat of climate change, they receive a minuscule proportion of such funding.

So many of these States said to me at COP – ‘we keep hearing announcements about green finance, but it seems so hard to get hold of the money and get projects financed.’ That is what I want to fix.

A dedicated Commonwealth hub has helped to mobilise more than US$310 million of climate finance for our small island members since 2016. This year, as members of the same Commonwealth family, let’s build on this and go much further.

Britain has particular leverage as a major donor to the big multilateral development funds and banks. We are working particularly closely with these banks to scale up by hundreds of billions of dollars the funding they offer developing States.

But all members can play a role. Many of us are donors. Others have experience to share in accessing finance from such funds and banks themselves, and making best use of them on the ground.

This year, in Samoa, we have a chance to show them and our other small island members just what the Commonwealth means. An effective association. A unique network. A reliable source of support. In short, a family.

Caricom chattel slavery and Indentureship

Dear Editor,

I am writing to you regarding the Communiqué from the 46th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of Caricom in Georgetown, which was held from February 25 to 28. On the issue of “reparations”, the Communiqué stated:

“The Conference proposes to place more emphasis on direct engagement, advocacy, and negotiations, including strengthening partnership with the African Union. They agreed to broaden the context for Reparatory Justice to include native genocide, chattel enslavement, indentureship, and colonialism and recognised the peculiar circumstances of overseas territories in the Region in relation to Reparatory Justice. They requested the PMSC [Prime Ministerial Sub Committee] on Reparations to advise on modalities for their involvement in Caricom’s Reparations agenda”.

The Guyana Reparations National Committee (GRNC) commends the Conference of Heads of State for its commitment and leadership in advancing the reparations agenda and for its recognition of the diverse and complex historical and contemporary realities of the Caribbean region. GRNC respects and appreciates the work and the vision of the Conference and the PMSC on Reparations and its efforts to advise on the best ways to involve overseas territories in the reparations agenda.

The Guyana National Reparations Committee has received many calls about

the Declaration by the Heads and as such, offers these comments, observations, and suggestions regarding the inclusion of indentureship and colonialism in the context of Reparatory Justice.

It is quite understandable that the inclusion of indentureship has generated some confusion and controversy among various stakeholders in the Caribbean, Africa, the United States, and the European African Diaspora as the first impression is that the current Caricom 10-Point Plan for Reparatory Justice that addresses “Indigenous Genocide will be modified to include “Indentureship”.

Indentureship was a system of labour migration that involved the recruitment and transportation of millions of workers from India, China, and other countries to various colonies and territories around the world, including the Caribbean, between the 19th and 20th centuries. Indentureship was regulated in India by the Immigration Act of 1854, which was passed by the British Parliament and the Government of India, and which stipulated the terms and conditions of the contracts signed by the indentured workers, such as their wages, food, clothing, accommodation, religious needs and duration of service.

Indentureship was a complex and controversial phenomenon that had both positive and negative impacts on the lives and societies of indentured workers and their descendants. On the one hand, indentureship provided opportunities for econom-

ic and social mobility, cultural diversity, and inter-ethnic solidarity for many indentured workers and their descendants, who contributed significantly to the development and identity of the Caribbean region. On the other hand, indentureship also involved various forms of exploitation, discrimination, and violence against the indentured workers and their descendants, who faced many challenges and hardships in their new Caribbean environments, such as poor housing, working and living conditions, low wages, high mortality rates, limited rights and freedoms, and social and political marginalisation.

Indentureship deserves to be acknowledged and addressed as part of the reparations agenda, as it is an integral part of the Caribbean history and experience. It has left a lasting legacy and impact on the Caribbean region and its people.

However, scholars and historians have stated that indentureship should be distinguished from native genocide and chattel enslavement, which are widely recognised as crimes against humanity by the international community and the United Nations, which has had International decades for both groups. Indentureship, while involving many injustices and abuses, was not a crime against humanity, nor was it created to treat as non-human or deny the humanity of the indentured, as it was not a systematic and deliberate attempt to exterminate or enslave a group of

people based on their race, ethnicity, religion, or nationality. Chattel slavery was and is, one of the greatest crimes the world has seen and includes genocide.

Similarly, colonialism, the political and economic domination of one country or territory by another, should also be differentiated from native genocide and chattel enslavement. It was not a crime against humanity, although it often involved or facilitated various forms of oppression and violence against the colonised peoples and territories.

The context for Reparatory Justice should be clarified and refined to reflect the different nature and scope of the historical injustices and grievances that affected the Caribbean region and its people, to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding among the various stakeholders involved in the reparations agenda. Differing interpretations among stakeholders have the potential to shape differing visions and mandates and retard the growth of a global reparations agenda.

The Guyana National Reparations Committee proposes that the context for Reparatory Justice should include the following categories:

1. Native Genocide: The systematic and deliberate killing, displacement, and dispossession of the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean by the European colonisers, which resulted in the near extinction of many native cultures, languages,

Misinformation about rented hotel rooms by Health Ministry

Dear Editor,

In its continuing campaign of disseminating false information and serving the role of an anti-Government mouthpiece, the Kaieteur News (KN) published a story on March 10 with patently false information. The Ministry of Health (MoH), therefore, takes this opportunity to correct the false information peddled by the KN.

In its publication, it reported that the MoH has rented hotel rooms since December 2022, at a cost of almost $75 million for students in training. The MoH has rented rooms from Jaigobin Hotel in Region 2, but the cost stated by KN is not nearly the cost reported in the newspaper. The MoH has rented 11 rooms at a cost of $1.1 million per month and has so far paid $16.5 million. The sum stated in the KN is mischievous and is overstated by about 78 per cent. The MoH is not paying regular rates for these hotel rooms.

When the need arose for renting additional housing space, quotations were obtained from local hotels and facilities, and the MoH was able to complete satisfactory arrangements with Jaigobin’s Hotel.

Since assuming office in August 2020, the PPP

Government has been transforming the health sector. In addition to the massive physical and technological infrastructure and a significantly expanded package of services across the country, the Ministry of Health and the Government of Guyana, working with the Public Service Ministry, the Ministry of Local Government, the GPHC and the 10 Regional Health Services Departments in the RDCs have been implementing an aggressive human resource for health (HRH) development programme.

The training programme includes training at the highest levels, such as specialist doctors and nurses and management and leadership programmes to provide support for several allied health areas. Not only are these training programmes conducted centrally in Georgetown at GPHC and the Nursing Schools in Georgetown, New Amsterdam and Linden, but a number of the allied health training are now conducted at the local level with instructors from Georgetown, other regions, and from the local training centre areas.

In Region Two, a number of on-site, locally-conducted training programmes started in 2022. In December 2022,

arrangements were made to train 22 pharmacy assistants to help support the Region Two pharmacy service, including at Suddie and Charity Hospitals. These 22 pharmacy assistants have since graduated. There are presently 48 nursing assistants, 19 post-basic midwifery and 22 laboratory assistant students in training in Region Two presently. Among the students in the Region Twolocated training programmes are also students from Region One.

Similar programmes are being done in all regions.

These locally-conducted training programmes are in addition to the centrally-conducted programmes, such as the 1200 students registered in the centrally-led hybrid programmes for registered nurses and nursing assistants, more than 250 post-graduate specialist residency training at GPHC and several dozen being trained online through international universities. These training programmes do not include students presently studying abroad. While the MoH has expanded the traditional training programmes, there are also new programmes that have been added and those that are coming on stream.

Clearly, some of these

and populations.

2. Chattel Enslavement: The forced and brutal transportation, exploitation, and dehumanisation of millions of Africans by the European slave traders and plantation owners, which resulted in the genocidal loss of lives, dignity, and identity of many African descendants, as well as the enrichment of the European powers at their expense. The purposeful negation of the humanity of the enslaved person was an essential and major component of chattelisation – where Africans were treated as property. The legacies of chattel enslavement are well documented and include persistent poverty, the denial of opportunity to generate wealth from one’s labour, and, more critically, the prevention of the creation of intergenerational wealth by Africans and their descendants.

3. Indentureship: The regulated and contractual migration, employment, and settlement of millions of workers from India, China, and other countries by the British and other colonial authorities, which resulted in the diversification, development, and integration of the Caribbean society, as well as the marginalisation, discrimination, and violence against many indentured workers and their descendants.

4. Colonialism: The political and economic domination, administration, and influence of the European and other foreign powers over the Caribbean territories and peoples, which re-

training programmes require the MoH and the local health departments to provide housing for students who come from distant places. In the case of Region Two, some of these students are accommodated at the Jaigobin Hotel facilities at a considerably reduced cost that the MoH negotiated.

It is noteworthy that at present in the Suddie Hospital Compound, a new training centre is being constructed that would provide classroom and dormitory accommodation for the students who are being trained in Region Two. Construction is due to be completed in the first quarter of 2025.

The MoH could not wait until construction was completed and, therefore, embarked on renting facilities to accommodate those students who require local accommodation.

Outside of ensuring that the health sector benefits from improved and expanded human resources for health, the programme also empowers young people with skills and employment.

Sincerely, Ministry of Health Public Relations/Health Promotion Unit

sulted in the modernisation, globalisation, and cooperation of the Caribbean region, as well as the disruption, oppression, and dependency of the Caribbean nations and cultures.

The modalities for the involvement of the overseas territories in Caricom's Reparations agenda should be based on the specific historical and contemporary realities and needs of each territory. The participation and consultation of the representatives and stakeholders of each territory should be ensured and respected.

The Guyana National Reparations Committee highly recommends that the PMSC should establish and coordinate separate and specialised commissions or committees for the indentureship and colonialism categories of the Reparatory Justice agenda and continue the present arrangement where genocide and chattel slavery, both “crimes against humanity” are managed in the CRC.

It is hoped that this letter will lessen the racial or ethnic overtones associated with the recent announcement of the Heads at the 46th Conference as the Guyana Reparations Committee believes that the reparations agenda is a common and shared cause that transcends any differences or divisions among the Caribbean people.

Sincerely,

Page Foundation

Customary Units of Weight

The customary units of weight (that is the units commonly used) are ounces (oz); pounds (lb) and tons.

1 pound = 16 oz

1 ton = 2204.6 lb

You can compare these units to each other.

To complicate matters further, a ton may relate to two different weights. In the United States, they measure by the US Ton or short Ton, while the British Ton, known as an Imperial Ton or long Ton is heavier. A short Ton, the US customary version, is equal to 2000 pounds

A long Ton, the mostly outdated Imperial Ton, is equal to 2240 pounds

A tonne, also known as a metric Ton, is equal to 1000kg, (or 2204.6 pounds)

Example:

How many ounces are in four pounds?

Step 1: You know that there are 16 oz in one pound. So multiply the number of ounces in one pound by four. Step 2: 16 x 4 = 64 ounces in four pounds.

The standard units of measurement that should be used in Guyana are the metric measurements. It is necessary to know customary units of weight to convert them to metric units.

Exercises: Convert

1) 20 pounds to ounces

2) 28 tonnes to ounces

3) 250 ounces to pounds

4) 2 pounds to tonnes

In this fun and easy science experiment, we’re going to explore and investigate weather by observing air pressure.

Materials:

Table Newspaper Ruler

5)22 tonnes to pounds

6)67.5 pounds to ounces

7) A 350-pound man weighs how many tonnes?

8) 6000 ounces to tonnes

Instructions: Place the ruler on a table so that two inches hang over the edge. Place a double sheet of newspaper over the ruler.

Align the edge of the newspaper with the edge of the table. Strike the edge of the ruler.

Spring

Sound the flute!

Now it’s mute!

Birds delight, Day and night, Nightingale, In the dale, Lark in sky,— Merrily, Merrily, merrily to welcome in the year.

How it works:

When you strike the ruler, the newspaper will not move as the air pressure on the newspaper will hold it down. Air pressure is simply the weight of all the tiny air molecules that press down on you and the Earth. It is this air pressure, or weight of the air molecules, that hold down the newspaper. (sciencefun.org)

Little boy, Full of joy; Little girl, Sweet and small; Cock does crow,

So do you; Merry voice, Infant noise; Merrily, merrily to welcome in the year.

Little lamb, Here I am; Come and lick My white neck; Let me pull Your soft wool; Let me kiss Your soft face; Merrily, merrily we welcome in the year.

WORD SEARCH

A time for strengthened solidarity, compassion – Pres Ali as Ramadan begins

President Irfaan

Ali has called for strengthened solidarity and compassion in standing with those who are suffering, as the holy month of Ramadan commences for the Muslim community.

The Head of State, in his Ramadan message, extended wishes to those observing the period of fasting, after the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) communicated that fasting would commence on Tuesday. Ali reminded that Ramadan holds a profound significance in the Islamic faith. It is a month of reflection, prayer, and self-discipline.

He expressed, “To our Muslim brothers and sisters, I extend my heartfelt best wishes for a blessed Ramadan. May this month be filled with spiritual growth, peace, and tranquillity. May your prayers be answered, and your sacrifices be accepted by the Most Merciful! May the spirit of Ramadan inspire us to work towards a better, more just world for all.”

During this holy month, Muslims engage in fasting, dedicating themselves to acts of charity, spirituality, and self-improvement. It is a time for deep introspection, fos -

President Irfaan Ali

tering empathy, strengthening the bonds of family and friendship, and showing compassion and concern for those facing difficult circumstances.

This year, however, he added, hearts are heavy with concern at the unimaginable suffering being endured by those in Gaza, as he called for support.

“The relentless onslaught they face, tantamount to genocide, is a grave violation of human rights. The assault on the defenceless people of Gaza constitutes a modern-day crime against humanity.”

Ali further penned, “Ramadan is a month for showing and expressing solidarity. It is a time

when the bonds of compassion and empathy are strengthened, and individuals come together to support one another in our spiritual journey. It is equally a time for us to stand beside those who are suffering and to extend our hands and hearts in support and solidarity with them.”

Additionally, the President urged Guyanese to remember, in their prayers and supplications, all those suffering because of conflict, including the people of Haiti.

“Let us dedicate a portion of our fasting and prayers to all their plights, praying fervently for their safety and well-being. Let us stand in solidarity with

them, advocating for an immediate ceasefire and an end to the violence that has inflicted such immense suffering on innocent lives,” said Ali in his statement. He quoted the Holy Quran [2:177]: “Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah (God) , the Last Day, the angels, the

Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveller, those who ask [for help]…. [and who] establish prayer and give zakah; [those who] fulfil their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship… Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.”

Ramadan is the ninth

month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community.

A commemoration of Muhammad’s first revelation, the annual observance of Ramadan is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam and lasts 29 to 30 days, from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next. Eid-ulFitr is observed to signify the end of Ramadan. (G12)

Caricom agrees with stakeholders...

In recent days, armed gangs, which had already been wreaking havoc in the Caribbean country, stormed two prisons and released thousands of prisoners into the already-troubled streets of Port-au-Prince and caused a State of Emergency to be declared.

Based on reports, at least one gang leader has threatened “a civil war that will end in genocide” if Haitian Prime Minister Henry did not resign and the international community continued to support him. The Prime Minister was left stranded in Puerto Rico as flights in and out of Haiti were cancelled last week.

After being in Guyana, the week before last,

drumming up support for a Caricom-backed multinational force to help him restore order in his country, the Haitian PM had travelled to Kenya, where he signed an agreement to mobilise troops for the multinational force.

Since February 29, criminal gangs in the capital Port-au-Prince have conducted coordinated attacks targeting Police Stations, prisons, criti-

FROM PAGE 3

cal infrastructure, and civilian sites in the city.

On March 2, armed gang members raided two penitentiaries, reportedly freeing some 3800 inmates, after which Haitian authorities announced a three-day State of Emergency and imposed a nighttime curfew. At least four Police Officers and five civilians have been killed in the violence since February 29, while nearly 15,000 persons have been displaced after fleeing from the violence. The United Nations had reported this week that since the beginning of the year, a staggering 1193 persons have been killed and 692 others injured by gang violence in Haiti. (G3)

“He lived for bikes” –sister of 26-year-old biker killed in

Domall Trim, a 26-year-old biker, tragically lost his life on Sunday evening after his motorcycle crashed into a motor lorry on the Mc Doom Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

The fatal accident occurred about 21:35h, in the vicinity of the Guyana Shore Base Inc (GYSBI).

Police investigations revealed that Trim, who hailed from Bel Air Village, Georgetown, was riding his motorcycle while motor lorry GAE 2805, owned by the Guyana Shore Base, was driven by 24-year-old Nickell Higgins of Sparendaam Housing Scheme on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

The lorry driver was proceeding east on Rome Access Road with intent to cross the Mc Doom Public Road. As the lorry approached Mc Doom Public Road, the traffic rank

at the junction stopped all the vehicles that were proceeding South and North on both carriageways, giving the driver the greenlight to proceed.

However, while the lorry was crossing the eastern carriageway, a group of motorcyclists – including Trim – were proceeding south on the eastern drive lane.

The motorcyclists pulled to the eastern side of the

EBD crash

road, navigating alongside the stationary vehicles and started proceeding at a fast pace, overtaking the line of traffic.

Trim's motorcycle collided with the rear portion of the motor lorry, causing him to fall to the road surface and skid into the rear right wheel of the lorry.

As a result, the motorcyclist sustained injuries to his body. He was picked up

in a semi-conscious condition and transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was seen and examined by a doctor on duty for multiple injuries to the body. He died while receiving treatment.

At his family’s residence, Tekesha Trim – his sister –shared that she was awakened and alerted that her brother was involved in an accident. Without hesitation, she arrived at the Hospital, but by then, her brother was unresponsive.

“My husband woke up and said that my brother’s boss called. He said he [Trim] was in an accident and they’re taking him down to the Hospital. I tried to make a few phone calls to find out which hospital. I immediately went down the road and when I got there, I saw my brother lying on the bed and the doctors were around him just trying to work on him.”

She continued, “He was already seeking medical attention when I got there and they just told me to wait outside because he’s not responding.”

Avid lover of bikes

According to Tekesha, her brother, who worked as a supervisor for a construction company, was an avid lover of bikes. At the time of the accident, the now-deceased man was returning home after spending time with friends in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

“He loved biking. He lived for biking. He lived his life. Biking was his thing and his passion. He didn’t even have that bike that long,” she shared.

She added that it was just recently that he acquired the motorcycle which resulted in his demise. The young man was also days away from celebrating his birthday.

The grieving sister expressed, “He was my person. He was my right hand. Everybody knows the type of relationship that we had and that we shared. He was my go-to person. He was a jovial, hardworking, kind-spirted person.”

Meanwhile, the body is currently at the Georgetown Public Hospital's Mortuary, where a post-mortem examination is expected on Wednesday. Police are continuing their investigation and analysing Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) footage of the crash. (G12)

…in politics

When your Eyewitness was in short pants, he’d heard the story of the “dog and bone”, hadn’t you?? There’s this dog who found a bone and snapped it up in his jaws. While going to a shady spot to enjoy a good, leisurely and satisfying chew, he had to cross a bridge over a stream. But as he did so, he saw his reflection in the water; thought it was another (ugly!) dog with a luscious bone and attempted to grab it. But, of course, being a dog, he had to open his mouth to do so – and his real bone dropped into the water, lost forever!!

Now, even if the PNC Opposition types had heard the story, it looks like they didn’t realise that it had a moral that was supposed to teach them a lesson for life. To wit, don’t be too greedy lest they lose “corn and husk”, to mix a metaphor!! Four years later, whether they scream “illegally-installed-regime” from now till kingdom come or not, they’ve lost the 2020 General Elections; they will be facing the 2025 elections. Nothing they do will change that!!

Rather than hitting the streets and mobilising, they seem to be putting all their eggs into two baskets: one to follow the advice of their “elder” Hamilton Green and rig the elections or alternatively, discredit the elections – which they know they’re gonna lose!! Since they’re insisting on claiming the PPP rigged the 2020 elections from the outside – maybe they will now do the same??

On the latter, they’re claiming that the electoral list –which they used to win the 2015 election and capture the Government – is “bloated”!! And the PPP’s gonna be using the dead and migrated folks they snucked in to win the 2020 elections to do the same with the 2025 elections! Can you believe that?? Now even if that’s true, since they know how the rig’s gonna be done, can’t they use their scrutineers in every polling station to stop it??

In the meantime, the PPP’ve threw down the gauntlet at Babu Jaan, they better “come good”!! Meaning they’re ready to rumble!! They’ve been giving “traditional PNC supporters” the full court press Michael Jordan would’ve been proud of!! And as they deliver services like they’ve never been delivered before – with the unprecedented Oil Money at their disposal – the PNC might just become lost in the wilderness??

So we hope their Brain Trust is more than ONE brain and they’ll decide to start tempering their rhetoric and start playing smart COALITION politics!! Meaning that just like the PPP’re biting off small new chunks, they gotta follow suit!

One, one dutty build dam. They need all the dutty they can collect for 2025!!

…in Parliament

The Opposition Leaders keep complaining that the Parliamentary Sectoral Committees aren’t meeting because of the PPP Government’s intransigence!! What the heck is your Eyewitness hearing?? He’s been raising his hands to the skies and calling for these Committees to meet and put the Government’s feet to the fire for the last four years!! These Committees – Economic, Natural Resources, Foreign Affairs, Social Services – cover every aspect of governmental activities in real time unlike the Public Accounts Committee that deals with history!!

Now half of these Committees are chaired on an annual rotating basis by a member of the Opposition!!

So if the Committees haven’t been meeting, what have those Opposition Chairmen been doing since 2020?? Sleeping?? They should’ve been screaming bloody murder to the Guyanese electorate!! All of the complaints – discriminatory handouts, house lots distribution, jobs, contracts, land, “emerging apartheid government”, etc, could’ve been investigated by summoning officials of the administration to give testimony on penalty of sanctions!!

It's clear the Opposition just can’t get their act together!!

…about development

Between 2015 and 2020, the PNC had executed a three-billion IDB RAID programme to resuscitate and make agri sustainable in four Afro-Guyanese villages – Ithaca, Buxton, BV and Mocha. Can’t they use the Doosan Excavators, Caterpillar Bulldozers, tractors with implements, etc, to keep things going?

Saxacalli double murder

Highly-trained Joint Services team on hunt for murder suspect – Crime Chief

As prison escapee

Akeem Wong, who brutally chopped a mother and son to death at their Saxacalli village home, remains on the run, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum related that a team of highly-trained Joint Services ranks was deployed to the locale to recapture him.

Blanhum told Guyana Times that he was confident that the team would be successful in apprehending the suspect, who, according to reports, was injured by the now-dead David Gomes

Prison escapee Akeem Wong

during the commissioning of the crime.

Wong on Saturday last

Teenager charged with possession of firearm, unlawful wounding

Eighteen-year-old Daniel Greenidge, of Budhan's Housing Scheme, West Canje, Berbice, was remanded to prison on Monday for the unlawful possession of a firearm.

Greenidge appeared before Magistrate Michelle Mathias at the New Amsterdam Magistrate's Court, where the charge was read to him. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded to prison until March 27, 2024.

The teenager was also charged with unlawful wounding and was granted $200,000 bail.

Both charges are related to the report of an

Charged: Daniel Greenidge

alleged 'shooting incident' committed on Fay Samaroo which occurred on February 27, 2024, at Sheet Anchor Village, East Canje, Berbice.

brutally murdered 75-yearold Elizabeth Gomes and her son, 49-year-old David Gomes– an incident witnessed by David’s six-yearold son.

It was reported that since the family moved to the city, they would return very often to clean their house and surroundings at Saxacalli. However, their routine visit took a sinister turn when an unexpected visitor arrived at their doorstep.

Wong, who reportedly escaped from the Mazaruni Prison on February 15, 2024, approached the Gomes residence seeking food and directions.

Police have said that Gomes’s six-year-old son related that about 15:00h on the day in question, the suspect visited their home and requested something to eat, while asking for directions. He was given food, and also took a few drinks with the child’s father.

“The child also stated that he later saw the suspect (arm) himself with a cutlass and (deal) his father several chops about his body. His grandmother (Nellie) went to (her son’s) rescue, and she was also dealt several chops about her body,” the Police release has stated.

The Police have said that after committing the act, the suspect attempted to wash down the blood, but in the process, he heard a boat approaching and ran into the nearby bushes, making good his escape.

Law enforcement was also told by the child that during the ordeal, the suspect was chopped by his father.

The child, the Police said, took his father’s cellular phone and sent a voice note to one of his father’s friends, who in turn contacted the Police.

Police investigations have thus far revealed that Wong was seen in the area, and was allegedly the person who committed the murders.

Wong, called “Bin Laden”, was convicted of rape.

Following his escape, the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) had said that Wong and another inmate, Gilbert Gill, were under the supervision of a prison officer, performing labour duties in a ‘wood bush’ when Wong requested permission to go defecate, and was granted same by the prison officer.

About five minutes later, a check was made for Wong, and it was discovered that he had gone missing. An alarm was raised, and law enforcement officials have been searching for him since.

Wong was 27 years old when he was convicted in 2020 of raping a 14-year-old girl. He pleaded guilty to the

charge, which stated that on June 30, 2017, in the county of Demerara, he engaged in sexual penetration of the child.

A probation report had stated that Wong, a resident of Half Mile, Wismar in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), had been associated with persons of unsavoury character, and had been involved in many delinquent activities.

According to the proba-

tion officer, Police records showed that Wong was wanted for a murder that occurred in Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini), and he was arrested only in 2018 after a wanted bulletin had been issued for him.

The probation officer had informed the court that Wong had told her he had also previously been charged with break-and-enter and robbery, but he claimed those charges had been dismissed.

US provides US$300M support for Haitibound multinational security mission

…Canada, Mexico & France also pledge support

Following intense discussions on Monday between Haitian stakeholders, the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and the wider international community, the United States (US) has agreed to increase its financial support for the multi-national force that will be traveling to Haiti to help restore order to the beleaguered country.

The meeting, which was held in Kingston, Jamaica, culminated in a press conference chaired by President Dr Irfaan Ali, in his capacity as Chairman of Caricom. According to President Ali, Caricom as a community would play an important role in helping to mobilize these resources.

“This is the level of commitment that is needed for the people of Haiti and Haiti at this time. And I really appreciate the type of support you’ve been giving. And we in Caricom, look forward to this continued support, for the fulfilment of all the pledges.”

“And we will also be working closely with the

partners to ensure we mobilize as quickly as possible, resources for the rebuilding of Haiti, for the humanitarian effort required for Haiti and the advancement of the Haitian society,” President Ali said.

This was reinforced by Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, in whose country Monday’s meeting

was hosted. According to Holness, the prospect of civil war in Haiti is a real one. This, according to him, is an untenable situation.

“Without recounting the disruptions and violence being experienced by ordinary Haitians through attacks on institutions and infrastructure, it is clear that Haiti is now at a tipping point.

Caricom and our regional partners, are deeply concerned, as are our international partners here present and beyond,” Holness said.

“Strong and decisive action, owned by the people of Haiti, must be taken to stem the sea of lawlessness and hopelessness, before it is too late. We are deeply distressed that it is al-

ready too late, for too many that have lost far too much at the hands of criminal gangs. The fear of the situation in Haiti, worsening to become a civil war, is now a real one. We’re all agreed that this cannot be allowed to happen. Not in our hemisphere.”

US support

Representing the US at the discussions was Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who lauded the hands-on role being played by the Caricom Chairman, Caricom and other partners such as those in Africa, in fielding the multinational force.

While the US has ruled out deploying forces to assist the multi-national force (consideration is being given for marines to help guard the US embassy in Port-auPrince), the country has not only committed millions of US dollars to logistical support for the multi-national force, but according to the Secretary of State it is doubling its contribution.

“What we’ve seen in recent days, again, should remind us that the already

challenging and difficult security situation, has now deteriorated even further and makes the multi-national support mission even more important than ever. The United Nations Security Council has reaffirmed that. And reaffirmed a collective commitment to deploying as quickly as possible,” Blinken said.

“Given this increasingly urgent need, I’m announcing today that the United States Department of Defence is doubling its approved support for the mission, from $100 million to $200 million. And that brings the total US support to $300 million for this effort. I’m also announcing additional humanitarian assistance for the people of Haiti, $33 million, to further support their health and food security.”

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who attended the meeting virtually, also committed Canada to making an unspecified financial contribution to the multi-national force.

Scenes

from the launch of the inaugural Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana (MYO)

Construction on new Hope Canal replica to start in 3 months – Pres Ali

…highlights how billions in investments will transform lives

The new Hope Canal replica in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) is among the many projects the Government is rolling out which will transform communities and benefit ordinary residents and according to President Dr Irfaan Ali, work on this transformative project will start in three months.

During the commemoration of the 27th death anniversary People’s Progressive Party (PPP) founder and late President, Dr Cheddi Jagan on Sunday, President Ali laid out to the attendees how the Government was improving their lives through investments.

The President urged the crowd at Babu Jaan, Port Mourant, to look at the infrastructure being built, including the new canal modelled after the one built at Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD) in 2013, which will help secure them against flooding.

“When we build the new canal, the Hope-like canal, which will start in another three months. When we do this, the risk of flooding will reduce by 60 per cent in this region. When the risk of flooding reduces by 60 per cent, the risk for financing your project becomes lower with the bank.

“And if the risk becomes lower, the access to financing becomes easier. But much

more importantly, when the risk to damage by flooding is reduced, the value of your land increases,” President Ali further said.

The Hope Canal, or Northern Relief Channel, which is located at Hope/ Dochfour, is a multi-component channel that allows excess water from the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) to be drained into the Atlantic Ocean via an eight-door sluice, so as to avoid overflowing and possible flooding.

The Hope Canal has been instrumental in preventing massive flooding along the East Coast of Demerara during the unprecedented May-June floods. As far back as 2021, the Government had announced that similar infrastructure would be constructed in other regions to curb devastating floods.

These include Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Five (MahaicaBerbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

Studies had been done in 2022 to determine whether the water captured at the Hope Canal facility can be treated to be used as a sustainable source to serve the ECD corridor. It was noted that this initiative to reuse the Hope Canal water is necessary, as Guyana confronts climate change as well as responds to the growing demands for more service connections.

This project is also part of the Government’s plans to provide 100 per cent access to treated water on the coast by 2025. Last year, Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal had said that the feasibility study for the Hope Canal replica had already been completed and the next step is to source funding for the project, which is estimated to cost some €55 million.

Palmyra investments President Ali also referenced the development being done at Palmyra. This includes housing projects, hotels, a stadium and a hospital. According to the President, these investments worth billions of dollars will transform communities and increase property values.

“If you go to a community that four years ago had

no roads, and today we have roads – a road network in that community – at an average, the value of every property in that community will go up by at least 25 per cent,” President Ali added.

“When that value goes up, what happens? Your net value as a family goes up. Instead of having a house that four years ago was worth $4 million, you now have a house that is worth almost $5.5 million. That is how you build social and economic justice. You invest, to transfer value, to create wealth, to transfer wealth.”

The Sheriff Group of

Joinder party seat dispute

Companies will be constructing a Specialty Hospital at Palmyra, Region Six – which is expected to provide as many as 400 jobs. The company is also building a $1.3 billion mega mall, also at Palmyra.

Sheriff Mall is expected to be built in four phases, with the first phase expected to be completed in August 2024. The company has said the state-of-the-art facility will provide a vibrant shopping and entertainment experience for the people of Berbice and contribute significantly to the region’s economic growth.

Then there are the Government’s plans for the Berbice Stadium and multipurpose centre at Palmyra. The long-awaited facility is expected to provide a significant impetus to sports development in the region. It will serve as a venue for a range of activities, including cricket, concerts, and other major events. With a seating capacity of approximately 10,000 spectators, it will become one of the largest sports facilities in Guyana, comparable the National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara. (G3)

National Assembly will not intervene in ‘private political’ arrangement – Speaker

The National Assembly of Guyana will not intervene in any private political arrangements agreed between parties.

This point was made by Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, during a discussion on the Guyana Dialogue programme, where he was questioned about the Leader of The New Movement (TNM), Dr Asha Kissoon vacating her seat as a Member of Parliament.

A New and United Guyana (ANUG) party recently issued a call for the parliamentarian to resign from her post, which was supposed to have been done since last November.

According to the Joinder List Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), given the 244 votes garnered during the 2020 General and Regional

Elections by TNM, it was entitled to occupy the seat for 91 days.

In this regard, TNM provided Dr Kissoon with an opportunity to represent her constituents, but ANUG is now indicating that her actions are ‘undemocratic and a breach of trust’.

In response to this join-

der party seat dispute, the Speaker of the National Assembly has made it clear that his role is not to adjudicate or apply pressure on any political arrangements made outside Parliament chambers.

Therefore, the two parties will have to resolve the issue independently.

“If there is a vacancy

in the National Assembly, if that vacancy is by resignation, the resignation comes to the Speaker and the Speaker calls upon the representative list to name a replacement…Our role as Speaker is not to adjudicate, not to pressure whatever private arrangement happens outside of the Parliament,” the Speaker of the National Assembly explained.

Nadir added that when the matter is settled, the National Assembly will ensure that the necessary protocols stipulated by Guyana’s Constitution are exercised.

“When that is done, that name goes to the Elections Commission to verify that the person was one of the candidates on that list and qualify to sit in the National Assembly. Once that check is done, then GECOM (Guyana Elections Commission)

will inform us that this person is now a duly-elected member of Parliament,” Nadir said.

Arrangement of trust

Based on the joinder MoU, each party would occupy the shared seat for a specific period. The three parties had previously committed to acting

as a broker between the Government and the main Opposition.

Dr Kissoon was sworn in as a Member of Parliament in April 2023. According to ANUG General Secretary Timothy Jonas, it was an arrangement of trust and it has been breached.

Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs last week indicated that Parliament did not have the power to remove Dr Kissoon.

The process for replacing an MP involves the National Assembly writing to the head of the party list to whom the seat belongs, once its occupant has submitted a formal resignation. The head of the list is tasked with informing GECOM which party candidate’s name to extract and submit to the National Assembly. (G1)

Ramsammy’s Ruminations

Media freedom could and must never be a freedom to misinform and fool people

Ablazing headline in the Kaieteur News on Sunday told the unsuspecting public that the Government paid a hotel $75 million to house a few trainee health workers, when, in fact, the Government paid only about $16 million. But such brazen lies are captured in blazing headlines every single day in our country.

Times like this force us to remember Mark Twain’s concerns about the media that “there are laws to protect the freedom of the press’s speech, but none that are worth anything to protect the people from the press.” In this regard, Clay Shirky’s words are also relevant: “The great tension of the media has always been that freedom and quality are conflicting goals”. These reflections about media freedom are important today because sections of the media are hiding behind freedom of speech as they bombard the public with false news, deliberately misinforming people, lying to people, spreading propaganda. Daily, sections of the media publish headlines, stories and letters that are totally fabrications.

Twain’s concerns that constitutions eloquently protect the media while simultaneously offering no protection for people from lies that are deliberately disseminated by the media are relevant today. Sharky’s words remind us that while media enjoys the freedom to inform people, in Guyana today, that freedom is being abused as sections of the media serve as the propaganda arm of existing political parties or as political entities themselves.

One newspaper and one radio station consistently and daily tell Guyanese that Exxon and its partners outside Guyana gets 87.5% of oil revenues and poor Guyana gets only 12.5%. It does not tell people that 75% of gross revenues from oil presently goes to pay for investments and operations. Oil and gas that are under the sea are not available to us for free; somebody pays to get it from under the sea. In this case, international investors are paying the total cost. Those who pay for it gets to be repaid. Exxon and partners take all the risk; Guyana has taken no risk and will not have to pay back the investments, if there are no profits. The question is what happens when there are profits.

Guyana gets 50 per cent of the profits. Because Guyana’s PSA limits Exxon and its partners to only claim investment and operations costs up to a maximum of 75 per cent of the gross revenue generated by oil in the early years, 25 per cent of gross revenues are available as profits. Guyana gets to keep 12.5 per cent of that 25 per cent (that is 50 per cent of the profits). There will come a time when investments, plus operations cost, are reduced and deduction of this total will be less than 75 per cent of the gross revenues generated by oil. For example, if in 2030, the cost of investment plus operation costs account for only 60 per cent of the gross revenues, then profits become 40 per cent of gross revenues and Guyana and Exxon and partners get 20% each. When investments are totally recovered, and operational costs drop further, Guyana’s share of the gross revenues that become profits grow larger.

This is all simple math, too onerous for those trained in voodoo mathematics to understand, but simple for most ordinary Guyanese to understand. Yet this particular newspaper and a small cadre of dishonest people bombard Guyanese citizens every single day to complain that Exxon and partners get 87.5 per cent and we get only 12.5 per cent of gross revenues, knowing full well they are misinforming people. Their intention is clear – they want to stop oil production in Guyana, because with the revenues, the PPP government is developing our country at dizzying speed.

This same newspaper and the same cadre of dishonest politicians and commentators were around when the PNC and David Granger signed the PSA to give us 50 per cent of profit oil and 2 two per cent royalty. Because the PPP was in opposition and the Government was led by the PNC, the group that has always tried rigging Guyana’s elections, these commentators had no problem with the PSA. The PPP is working with the same, exact PSA these commentators had no problem with. No one was troubled by the 2 per cent royalty, or the 50 per cent profit or the various conditions in the PSA.

The same newspaper and the same set of commentators, each and every single day, tell us that Guyana is not getting its two per cent royalty. They utilise all kinds of voodoo mathematics to misinform the Guyanese public. They tell the Guyanese public that Exxon and partners include the two per cent gross revenues which is our royalty in the 75 per cent operations and investment costs. In fact, they know that the two per cent which is our royalty comes from Exxon and its partners’ 12.5 per cent profits. They know that once the operations and investment costs are taken out, Guyana gets 12.5 per cent, plus two per cent royalty, which equals 14.5 per cent gross oil revenues, and, that Exxon and partners get 12.5 per cent, minus two per cent, which equals 10.5 per cent.

The truth is that the bold headlines are absolutely false. This is what Mark Twain was complaining about. The press in Guyana has freedom to say what they want, even if it is absolute propaganda. That freedom is protected by our Constitution and honoured by a democratically-elected government today. But the same constitution does not protect the public from the nasty propaganda disseminated by the media. Ordinary Guyanese citizens must be aware of this nasty, ugly result of press freedom, which, nasty or not, we must preserve.

Fortunately, there are many of us who every single day take on the responsibility of telling people the truth, which is irrefutable. We may call propaganda alternative truths. But truths are truths and propaganda eventually are refutable. The media has a responsibility to always tell the truth, nothing else. Freedom of the press should never be in conflict with quality or truth. This is an example why people say we need democracy, but that democracy can be messy.

Father, son among 174 graduates from technical training programmes

Afather-and-son duo were among 174 graduates in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) celebrating their successful completion of technical training programmes in a bid to address the growing demand for skilled labour.

The individuals completed certification programmes in various disciplines such as motor vehicle servicing and repairs, heavy-duty equipment operation, welding and fabrication, electrical installation, air conditioning and refrigeration repairs, furniture making, and hydraulics.

These achievements showcase the Government's dedication to bridging the

country's skills gap and equipping the graduates with valuable technical expertise that will benefit both the local community and the

nation as a whole. Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton applauded the graduates, particularly the women, for realising the necessity of acquiring the es-

sential skills and knowledge to become productive citizens. He underscored to the female graduates that their participation was nothing short of joyous as it demonstrated the Labour Ministry's commitment to empowering women with skills to become self-sufficient.

Hamilton further noted that their participation reflected this year's International Women's Day theme, "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress," which coincides with the Ministry's commitment to achieving gender equality in non-traditional professions.

Meanwhile, within the

region, efforts are underway to revive the Tucber Park Cooperative Housing Society, aiming to provide land titles to nearly 400 coop members. Hamilton, along with Regional Co-operative Officer Jason Gladstone, engaged with Tucber Park Coop members to discuss the reactivation of the housing cooperative.

Initially inactive since 2004, a Steering Committee was established in 2018 to jumpstart its activities and enable members to obtain their land titles. Minister Hamilton pledged his commitment to resolving this long-standing issue promptly.

US provides US$300M support for...

Lauding Caricom for its role in finding a resolution for Haiti, he also committed Canada to providing “humanitarian contributions and any sort of political support we can in continuing to move forward on this.”

Mexico & France

Mexico was represented at the meeting by its Foreign Minister, Alicia Bárcena. According to her, Mexico remains committed to continuing its role in helping Haiti with structured developmental assistance and poverty eradication interventions. She urged that attention be paid on tackling the root causes of the unrest in Haiti.

“When we were members of the United Nations Security Council, Mexico promoted the resolution that we knew demanded of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, which im-

posed sanctions on non-state actors linked to gang financing and arms trafficking. And we urged the sanctions committee to act more effectively in implementing these resolutions.”

“We are aware that this situation is not recent. And it’s imperative to all of us to address the root cause. And we mean poverty, inequality, violence and social disintegration. Through Caricom, Mexico will continue our cooperation programmes in agriculture, health and environment. It is essential to put together projects for development and increase the productive capacities and job opportunities for Haitians,” she said.

France, the former colonial masters of Haiti, was meanwhile represented by French Minister of State and Development Chrysoula Zacharopoulou. According to

her, it is important that the international community urgently mobilise alongside Haiti, “to put an end to the suffering of the population victimized by criminal armed groups.”

The Minister stressed France’s commitment to supporting Haiti, including the dialogue and Caricom’s mediation efforts.

“We’re here to support the Haitian dialogue and Caricom mediation efforts. France stands by your side. We condemn in the strongest possible terms the attacks by armed groups. They are terrorizing the population and undermining the very foundation of the Haitian state.”

She also lauded the efforts being made by Kenya and Benin, towards fielding the multi-national force. However, the French Minister lamented the prospect that current PM Henry

could be exiled from Haiti, as armed gangs have been agitating for him to be.

“I would like to thank Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s efforts in extreme and serious security and political context. We thank him for the service he has provided and consider that he should not be forced to an exile out of his country.”

“However, faced with the current gridlock, the inter-Haitian political dialogue must be set up with a view of fostering a broader consensus. It’s up to the Haitian stakeholders to live up to their responsibilities in order to put in place a consensual political formula,” Zacharopoulou said.

Blinken, who lauded the hands-on role being played by the Caricom Chairman, Caricom and other partners such as those in Africa, in fielding the multi-national force.

Building Guyana’s restorative justice system priority – AG

…persons being trained to resolve matters outside court, obtain compensation

As part of the Government’s agenda for the modernisation of Guyana’s legal framework, the concept of restorative justice is gradually taking centre stage.

This point was made by Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil

pensation for victims.

The training held in collaboration with the Attorney General’s Chambers and Canada-Caricom Expert Deployment Mechanism will last for the next two weeks, and the 25 participants will be trained to effectively engage victims, offenders and

Nandlall, who contends that building the country’s restorative justice system is a major priority for the Government of Guyana.

On Monday, the first cohort of persons began training to become practitioners with responsibilities similar to those of probation officers but with an expanded focus on resolving issues outside of court and obtaining com-

community leaders for a more holistic approach to addressing crime.

Upon completion of the programme, the practitioners will receive certificates that qualify them to implement the doctrine in their communities and social environs.

During his remarks to the gathering, the Attorney General explained that re-

storative justice was now part of Guyana’s justice institution, legal and social sector.

On this point, he disclosed that the system will help to reduce the heavy workload of magistrates across the country, and indicated that more persons would be trained.

“We have trained all the Toshaos, this current set and many others before. In almost all the regions or most of the regions, we

have trained the Religious Leaders and other persons considered influential and leadership material…We continue to train people, even if you are incorporated formally in the system or not, your knowledge of restorative justice will serve you well in your community,” the Attorney General said.

This aspect of expanding the restorative justice programme is expected to also reduce prison overpopula-

tion, and provide support to victims and justice in communities where there are no courtrooms, hence reducing recidivism.

In this regard, Nandlall added that Government would also be incorporating restorative justice systems into the Hope and Justice Centres being build-out across the country.

“I have discussed with my colleague Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud and we have agreed to use the pro-

bation department across the country and to install in the probation departments across a restorative justice component, either one or two officers…We already have historically a relationship between the administration of justice, the Judiciary, and the magistracy… we are going to capitalise on that relationship,” the minister said.

Restorative justice is a system of providing justice to persons through consultation between a victim, perpetrator and community member without imprisonment for non-violent crimes.

Restorative justice is an alternative approach that seeks to repair harm by providing opportunities for the victim and perpetrator to discuss and address their needs in the aftermath, in a way that promotes healing, accountability, and understanding.

The method falls under the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)funded Support for the Criminal Justice System Programme, which is aimed at addressing the overcrowding in prisons by focusing on two aspects: the overuse of pre-trial detention, and the overreliance by the criminal justice system on custodial sentences. (G1)

Govt remains committed to supporting Venezuelan migrants – Todd

The Guyana Government’s policy on offering support for the migrants fleeing hardships and a worsening economic crisis in Venezuela remains intact, where authorities are geared up to provide key services to the vulnerable.

This is according to Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd as he recently chaired a meeting of the Multi-Agency Coordinating Committee to address the influx of migrants from Venezuela into Guyana.

In a statement on Monday, the Ministry shared that the first Committee meeting for the year was attended by the relevant Government stakeholders and international partners who collectively set the agenda in principle for the Committee to continue its work with regard to providing the necessary humanitarian assistance to those migrants, inclusive of returning Guyanese fleeing the economic hardships in Venezuela.

Todd noted that the longterm objective is to integrate

them into Guyanese society, but in the meantime, the respective agencies are tasked with combining resources to provide services in key areas such as healthcare, education, labour, sanitation, shelter, food and clothing for the most vulnerable.

Consequently, the Minister tasked the Committee with organising another outreach activity at the earliest possible opportunity, which will be undertaken in Region One as a result of the high concentration of

migrants from Venezuela.

Despite the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela and the case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the Government of Guyana has taken a policy decision to offer humanitarian assistance to migrants fleeing from Venezuela.

Venezuelans have been entering Guyana’s territory in droves in recent times, fleeing harsh economic conditions in their homeland in search of betterment here.

Venezuelan migrants seeking refuge in Guyana are being encouraged to present themselves to immigration authorities to get registered in order to benefit from services offered by the Government.

Registration is made easy through the implementation of “roaming immigration officers” who traverse the areas usually populated by migrants and offer regis-

tration and extension of stay services remotely. This process is focused on regularisation of these migrants thus preventing or reducing their vulnerability to trafficking, sexual and labour exploitation.

In Guyana, all children of migrants, legal and illegal, from Venezuela and other countries are allowed full access to be enrolled in the public school system within

the host communities, and to benefit from Governmentfunded support programmes including school feeding programmes, school uniform vouchers, and the “Because We Care” cash grants given to all students.

Reports indicate that there are about 40,000 Venezuelan migrants residing in Guyana, with only 21,704 officially documented.

Security guard killed as bandits invade Vreeden-Hoop supermarket

Asecurity guard attached to the Sheriff Security Service was fatally shot by bandits during a supermarket invasion on Monday at Vreed-enHoop, West Coast Demerara.

Dead is Paul Waterman, of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

According to Police, the incident occurred about 15:00h on Monday at People Supermarket located at Lot F New Road, Vreed-enHoop.

Reports are that three men, two of whom were armed with handguns, entered the supermarket and held Waterman, who had

a .32 Taurus pistol with 10 matching rounds of ammunition; the proprietor, Ping Xian Lin and his wife, Li Yan Ohen, at gunpoint.

During the armed robbery, a scuffle ensued between Waterman and one of the suspects who discharged a round that hit Waterman and caused him to fall to the ground. Waterman was then relieved of his firearm and cellphone.

The suspects proceeded to rob the supermarket and then made their escape by running North through Evergreen Street towards Best Village.

They escaped with an un-

disclosed amount of cash, a quantity of Digicel and GTT phone cards, one cellphone and one DVR.

Waterman was rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police in a statement said that the scene was visited by the Regional Division Three Commander, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Siwnarine; Regional Detective Officer, Assistant Superintendent Jermaine Grant and other ranks.

The scene was processed and one .32 spent shell was recovered from the scene.

Investigations continue.

North Korean delegation meets Mongolian President in rare visit – KCNA

North Korean Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Pak Myong Ho met with Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh on Monday, North Korean State media KCNA said, in a rare foreign trip by a diplomatic delegation from the isolated State.

The trip comes as Pyongyang appears to be expanding diplomatic engagement after keeping its borders tightly shut during the pandemic.

Khurelsukh and Pak talked about developing the friendly relations established by previous leaders of their respective countries and strengthening bilateral exchanges and cooperation, KCNA said, adding Pak

also met with his Mongolian counterpart on Monday.

Separately, Russia's Deputy Minister of Culture is expected to visit North

Korea around the anniversary of a bilateral agreement, KCNA said on Tuesday. (Excerpt from Reuters)

$22M river ambulance bursts into flames

…8 persons onboard, 1 suffers 2nd-degree burns

The Orealla river ambulance went up in flames on Monday afternoon in the Corentyne River not far from the Amerindian community of Orealla, Corentyne, Berbice. Reports indicated that eight persons were on board; however, one was seriously injured.

Gavin France, a Government 10-day parttime worker attached to Orealla Health Centre, reportedly suffered second-degree burns to his right chest, hand, and face.

The other persons who received minor injuries are Pamela Chacon (a wound to her left foot); Ganesh Shivmangal (a wound to his left foot); Berto Jabar (wounds to his right toes) and Brentnal Herman, who received a wound to his right foot.

The ambulance was at the time returning from Corriverton after taking a patient to the Skeldon Hospital, who was eventually transferred to New Amsterdam Hospital.

Police said that about

17:30h, Roderick Herman, 34, who resides at Orealla Village, reported that about 17:00h, he was the captain (employed by the Health Ministry0 of the Orealla ambulance water taxi, which had eight passengers.

He told Police that he was travelling south in the Corentyne River heading towards Orealla Village, but while in the vicinity of Francis Wharf, he saw sparks coming from the water pump area, which is in the stern of the boat, close to the gas tank.

The fire subsided after gutting the entire upper portion of the water ambulance.

Borlyn Morris, who is attached to the health centre, told this publication that the ambulance left Corriverton after 16:00h on Monday after refuelling.

She said during the trip the boat was experiencing engine trouble. She explained that the engine kept cutting off, and France opened the area where the fuel was and immediately there was an explosion.

"There was like grey ash

all over his shirt and it was on fire. He had to take off his shirt and throw it in the river," she related. The health worker said that they were able to use the fire extinguisher on board to keep down the flames, but the blaze reignited.

"The bow of the boat couldn't hold everybody and so four persons went into the water."

She related that after about 15 minutes, another boat arrived and rescued them.

The persons who were taken to the hospital were treated and sent away, except for France. He was transferred to New Amsterdam Public Hospital, where he is presently receiving further treatment for burn injuries.

The river ambulance was acquired in October 2018, at a cost of $22.4 million and had been used to service Orealla, which is situated some 50 miles up the Corentyne River as well as its sister village Siparuta. (G4)

TRamadan is time for self-discipline – ERC Ramadan Mubarak greetings to all Muslims – PNCR, APNU

he Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends heartfelt greetings to our Muslim brothers and sisters on the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan.

During this sacred month, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Holy Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

As Muslims around the world embark on this consecrated period of fasting, prayer, and reflection, the Commission stands in solidarity with them, recog -

nising the significance of this sacred occasion.

Ramadan is a time for self-discipline, charity, and strengthening one's relationship with Allah. Through fasting from dawn until sunset, Muslims demonstrate their commitment to spiritual growth, empathy, and compassion for those less fortunate.

In Guyana, Ramadan, as is the case with other significant religious observances, provides an opportunity for Guyanese to come together. It serves as

a timely reminder of the shared values that unite us and the importance of embracing diversity as a source of strength.

The Commission extends our heartfelt wishes to the Muslim community for a Ramadan filled with peace, joy, and spiritual growth. We encourage all Guyanese to join in this spirit of unity, fostering understanding and goodwill for a more harmonious Guyana.

Ethnic Relations Commission

APNU and the PNCR extend Ramadan Mubarak to all our Muslim brothers and sisters of this great land and worldwide.

In this most hallowed month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims worldwide fast from dawn to sunset. Staying away not only from food and drink, but from actions and talks that are not necessary. These actions allow us to come out

of this month as better humans not only to ourselves and our families, but also to the entire nation.

The attributes and characteristics developed over this period allow us to be more pleasing to Allah (SWT) and remind us of our duty to creation and Him. During this month, we pray that we will find the closeness to Allah (SWT) that we seek, during fasting, prayers and acts of char-

ity. In addition, we pray that we find forgiveness for our sins in this life as we prepare for the inevitable hereafter.

May Allah grant us all the Imaan and strength to reap the fullest reward of this month as we are not guaranteed that we will see another. We pray that during this month, our actions are accepted by Allah (SWT) and we strengthen our deen, Insha Allah.

Regional

Haiti spirals to collapse as gangs tighten grip

Haiti is fast descending into anarchy. Over the weekend, the violence in the capital Port-au-Prince ramped up once again. Heavilyarmed gangs attacked the National Palace and set part of the Interior Ministry on fire with petrol bombs.

It comes after a sustained attack on the international airport, which remains closed to all flights –including one carrying Prime Minister Ariel Henry.

He tried to fly back to Haiti from the United States last week, but his plane was refused permission to land. He was then turned away from the neighbouring Dominican Republic too.

Henry is now stuck in Puerto Rico, unable to set foot in the nation he ostensibly leads.

Among those who did manage to get into the stricken Caribbean nation, though, was a group of US military personnel.

Following a request from the US State Department, the Pentagon confirmed it had carried out an operation to, as it put it, "augment the security" of the US Embassy

in Port-au-Prince and airlift all non-essential staff to safety.

Soon after, the European Union (EU) said it had evacuated all of its diplomats, fleeing a nation mired in violence and facing its biggest humanitarian crisis since the 2010 earthquake.

Millions of Haitians, however, simply don't have that luxury. They're trapped, no matter how bad things get.

The situation is dire at the State University of Haiti Hospital, known as the general hospital, in downtown

Port-au-Prince. There is no sign of any medical staff at all.

A dead body, covered by a sheet and swarming with flies, lies in a bed next to patients waiting in vain for treatment.

Despite the overpowering stench, no-one has come to remove the body. It is rapidly decomposing in the Caribbean heat.

"There are no doctors, they all fled last week," said Philippe, a patient who didn't want to give his real name.

"We can't go outside. We

Argentina launches US$65B bond swap to ease 2024 debt load

Argentina's Government launched a huge voluntary debt swap on Monday of peso and some dollar-linked instruments set to mature in 2024, a bid to push back repayments amid a major economic crisis hammering the South American country.

The debt, which includes 15 different instruments with a total value pegged at around US$65 billion, may be exchanged for new inflation-linked instruments with maturity dates ranging

from 2025 to 2028, according to the Government.

"The eligible securities in the hands of the public and Private Sector for the swap operation amount to some 55 trillion Argentine pesos (US$64.86 billion)" a Government source said, adding 70 per cent of the maturities were held by the public sector.

Argentine sovereign bonds, which have been on a rally this year driven by market hopes about new libertarian President Javier Milei's reforms and

fiscal tightening, dipped on Monday by an average 0.5 per cent.

The Government opened the auction process on Monday morning and will close it on this evening. Settlement of the offers received and awarded will take place on Friday.

Ezequiel Zambaglione from local investment platform Balanz said the swap was a test of investor confidence in the Government and a strong take-up could boost markets further.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

US Secretary of State, PM Holness hold bilateral talks in Kingston

In brief remarks made at the bilateral talks on the margins of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) high-level talks in Kingston on Monday, Prime Minister Andrew Holness has underscored the importance of the relationship between Jamaica and the United States.

Holness and US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, are now leading their delegations in the bilateral discussions.

For his part, Blinken noted that he had visited Jamaica before, but not in his present capacity. He told a room packed with local and international Journalists that the US valued its ties with Jamaica and the rela-

hear the explosions and gunfire. So, we must have courage and stay here; we can't go anywhere."

With no Prime Minister and a Government in disarray, the gangs' power over the capital is near absolute.

They control more than 80 per cent of Port-au-Prince and the country's most notorious gang leader, Jimmy "Barbecue" Chérizier has again told the Prime Minister

to resign.

"If Ariel Henry doesn't step down and the international community continues to support him," he said last week, "they will lead us directly to a civil war which will end in genocide."

Meanwhile, the Police, outnumbered and demoralised, are struggling to keep looters at bay. The Salomon Police Station in Port-au-Prince was attacked and burnt out, and charred Police vehicles lie outside the still-smouldering building.

Nevertheless, even in the face of the total collapse of law and order, people must still venture out to make a living.

At a nearby market, several street hawkers told the BBC they had no other option, but to leave their homes, even with gunmen roaming the streets.

"I have three kids, and I'm all they have – I'm their mother and their father," said Jocelyn, a market trader who also didn't want to give her real name.

"So, I'm obliged to take to the streets. Yesterday gunmen came here and stole all our money. A lot of vendors lost all their money. But there's no way to stay at home when you have three mouths to feed."

"The anxiety is killing me when I'm in the street," echoed an older woman selling fruit. "I keep thinking what if I get shot dead? Who will take care of my children then? I have no family to support me."

To the west, in one of Haiti's nearest neighbours, Jamaica, the dignitaries, diplomats and Heads of State of the Caricom regional group were gathering for an emergency summit.

The instability in Haiti is a problem for the entire Caribbean Community, and for Washington too. The idea of a nation of some 11 million people being run by gangs is of huge concern, particularly the potential impact on outward migration during an election year in the US.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Lightning kills tour guide, wounds French tourists in Peru

Alightning strike killed a Peruvian tour guide and injured six French citizens during a hike on the multi-coloured Vinicunca mountain, a tourist hotspot in the heart of the Andes, Police said Monday.

The mountain, one of Peru’s most iconic sites along with Machu Picchu, has become a major attraction in the last decade, as warming temperatures have melted its glacier caps and revealed its colours.

Police said in a statement that the lightning strike on Sunday afternoon had left the French tourists, aged 22 to 40, with “burns and injuries”.

They have been hospitalised in the city of Cusco.

Vinicunca mountain, also known as the rain-

A lightning bolt is a million times more powerful than household current, carrying up to 100 million volts of electricity.

bow mountain or mountain of seven colours, has distinct hues striped across its slopes, the result of an accumulation of sediment over millions of years.

It rises to over 5200 metres (17,000 feet) above sea

level.

The death of the tour guide brings to five the number of people killed by lightning in the Peruvian Andes this year, according to authorities. (AFP)

Imbert: IMF says Trinidad and Tobago in sustained recovery

Trinidad and Tobago Finance Minister

Colm Imbert said the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is pleased that steps taken and being taken by the Government were contributing to a sustained economic recovery.

In a statement issued by the Finance Ministry on Monday, Imbert said this position was articulated by the IMF in its latest Article IV report on Trinidad and Tobago.

He added that the find -

ings of the IMF only happened because the Ministry and the Government have exercised fiscal discipline over the last eight years, thus creating the conditions for sustained growth.

The IMF’s 2024 Article IV visit to Trinidad and Tobago occurred between February 28-March 8.

During that time, the IMF mission met with a number of stakeholders, Government departments, Private-Sector organisations and State institu-

tions and comprehensively analysed detailed economic data on Trinidad and Tobago.

In its Article IV report, also issued on March 11, the IMF said, "For the first time in a decade, Trinidad and Tobago is undergoing a gradual and sustained economic recovery. Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rebounded in 2022 and is estimated to have further expanded by 2.1 per cent in 2023. (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

OIL NEWS

Oil prices steady as Middle Eastern supply concerns ease

Oil prices were little changed on Monday as concern eased that fighting in the Middle East would disrupt supply and Chinese data suggested weak demand, while an increase in US refining limited any selling.

Brent futures for May delivery settled at US$82.21 a barrel, gaining 13 cents. The US crude April contract slipped 8 cents to end at US$77.93 a barrel.

"I guess it's ‘the barrel half empty or the barrel half full’, depending on how you look at it," said Phil Flynn, pointing to conflicting forces keeping oil prices from moving far in either direction.

Both benchmarks ended last week lower after bearish Chinese data implied weaker demand in the world's leading crude importer. Brent closed down 1.8 per cent, although the contract has remained above US$80 a barrel for over a month. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) ended 2.5 per cent lower.

China's crude oil imports rose in the first two months of the year compared with the same period of 2023, but were weaker than the preceding months, data showed on Thursday, continuing a trend of reduced purchases.

At the same time, oil investors seemed to overlook geopolitical conflict that was initially seen as tightening global crude supplies.

"It seems that the Middle East conflict is not high on the list of driving forces of investors, as it has not led to meaningful supply disruptions," said Tamas Varga of oil broker PVM.

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis have been attacking ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November in what they say is a campaign of solidarity with Palestinians during Israel's war against Hamas.

Over the weekend, dozens of drones were downed by US, French and British forces in the Red Sea area after Houthis targeted bulk carrier Propel Fortune and US destroyers in the region, the US military said.

On Monday, an explosion in the vicinity of a vessel 71 nautical miles southwest of Yemen's port of Saleef was reported.

Meanwhile, US data has been sending mixed signals about the health of the world's largest economy.

US job growth accelerated in February, but a rise in the unemployment rate and moderation in wage gains kept the anticipated June interest rate cut on the table. US inflation data is due today.

An increase in US refining activity, which could tighten global crude supplies, has helped to limit any fall in oil prices.

"The increasing refining utilisation rate has the possibility of popping a storage draw for the first time this year," Mizuho bank's Bob Yawger said.

US crude stockpiles have risen for six weeks in a row owing to low refining rates. Analysts forecast a 1.4 percentage points increase in refining rates for last week, after they jumped 3.4 percentage points to a six-week high of 84.9 per cent of total capacity the previous week, according to weekly government data.

Industry data on US oil stockpiles is due for release today, while Government data is expected on Wednesday. (Reuters)

Around the World Israel urges UN Security Council to pressure Hamas on hostages

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday demanded the United Nations Security Council "put as much pressure as possible" on Palestinian militants Hamas to release the people it took hostage during the October 7 attack on Israel.

Katz addressed the 15-member Council, which met to discuss a UN report that found there were "reasonable grounds to believe" sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, occurred at several locations during the October 7 attack by Hamas.

"We are asking you to condemn the sexual violence crimes these barbarians committed in the name of the Muslim religion," Katz told the Security Council, also urging the body "to put as much pressure as possible on the Hamas organisa-

tion to release immediately and unconditionally all the kidnapped hostages."

He called for sanctions to be imposed on Hamas, accusing the group of crimes "worse than the terror actions carried out by al-Qaeda, ISIS and other terror organisations" who had been targeted by the Security Council.

The Security Council has called for the immediate, unconditional release of all hostages in resolutions adopted in November and December. It is currently considering a US-drafted resolution that includes a condemnation of the October 7 attack by Hamas "as well as its taking and killing of hostages, murder of civilians, and sexual violence including rape".

US Ambassador to the UN Linda ThomasGreenfield urged Council

members to condemn Hamas.

Hamas killed 1200 persons and seized 253 hostages on October 7, according to Israeli tallies. Israel has retaliated by launch-

ing an air and ground assault on Hamas in the Gaza Strip that has killed more than 31,000 persons, health authorities in Gaza say.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Kremlin, NATO at odds over Pope's call for Ukraine to show 'white flag' and start talks

The Kremlin on Monday said a call by Pope Francis for talks to end the Ukraine war was "quite understandable", but NATO's boss said now was not the time to talk about "surrender".

Pope Francis said in an interview recorded last month that Ukraine should have "the courage of the white flag" to negotiate an end to a conflict that has killed tens of thousands.

As the West grap-

ples with how to support Ukraine and the prospect of a sharp change in US policy if Donald Trump wins November's presidential election, Putin has essentially offered to freeze the battlefield along its current front lines, a premise Ukraine rejects.

"It is quite understandable that he (the Pope) spoke in favour of negotiations," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

He said President

India to enforce controversial migrant law

India's Government has announced plans to enact a controversial citizenship law that has been criticised for being anti-Muslim.

The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) will allow non-Muslim religious minorities from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan to seek citizenship.

The authorities say it will help those facing persecution.

The law was passed in 2019 – sparking mass protests in which scores of people died and many more were arrested.

Rules for it were not drawn up in the wake of the unrest, but have now been, according to the country's Home Affairs Minister, Amit Shah.

He made the announcement on Monday, writing on social media that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "delivered on another commitment and realised the promise of the makers

of our constitution to the Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians living in those countries".

Implementation of the CAA has been one of the key poll promises of Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the run-up to the general elections this year.

It amends the 64-yearold Indian Citizenship law, which currently prevents illegal migrants from becoming Indian citizens.

Under the new law, those seeking citizenship will have to prove that they arrived in India from Pakistan, Bangladesh or Afghanistan by December 31, 2014.

The Indian Government has not given a date for when the law change will come into effect.

Critics of the CAA say it is exclusionary and violates the secular principles enshrined in the Constitution, which prohibits discrimination against citizens on religious grounds. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Vladimir Putin had repeatedly said Russia was open to peace talks: "Unfortunately, both the statements of the Pope and the repeated statements of other parties, including ours, have recently received absolutely harsh refusals." Moscow's offers to negotiate have invariably been predicated on Kyiv giving up the territory that Moscow has seized and declared to be part of Russia, amounting to more than a sixth of Ukraine.

Peskov said Western hopes of inflicting a "strategic defeat" on Russia were "the deepest misconception", adding: "The course of events, primarily on the battlefield, is the clearest evidence of this."

But NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said negotiations that would preserve Ukraine as a sovereign and independent nation would only come when Putin realised that he would not win on the battlefield.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

At least 50 hurt as LATAM's Boeing 787 to Auckland “just dropped” mid-flight

At least 50 persons were hurt when a Boeing 787 operated by LATAM Airlines ( dropped abruptly midflight from Sydney to Auckland on Monday, according to the airline and a New Zealand health service organisation that treated the injured.

The aircraft experienced a strong shake and as a result, 10 passengers and three cabin crew members were taken to a hospital, the South American carrier said as it investigates the cause.

The flight with 263 passengers and nine cabin crew members landed at Auckland airport as scheduled on Monday afternoon.

One person is in serious condition while the rest

suffered mild-to-moderate injuries, a spokesperson for Hato Hone St John, which treated roughly 50 persons at the airport, said.

"The plane, unannounced, just dropped. I mean it dropped unlike anything I've ever experienced on any kind of minor turbulence, and people were thrown out of their seats, hit the top of the roof of the plane, throwing down the aisles," passenger Brian Jokat told the BBC.

The cause of the apparent sudden change in trajectory of LATAM 800 could not be ascertained immediately. Safety experts say most airplane accidents are caused by a cocktail of factors that need to be thoroughly investigated.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

(March 21-April 19)

(April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

(June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Emotions will surface. Channel excess energy into something that makes you feel good or moves you closer to your objective. It’s time to help yourself instead of being a backup player for someone else.

Don’t let what others do spoil your day. Distance yourself from no-win situations and head in a productive direction. It’s up to you to determine how you handle challenges or deal with people.

Keep busy and live up to your promises. Get your details and numbers straight, and show confidence and courage. Don’t give anyone the chance to prove you wrong. Leave no room for error.

Take charge, plan your actions and finish what you start. Refuse to let anyone goad you into a discussion that slows you down or leaves you livid. Take care of your responsibilities.

Use your intelligence to make your mark. Speak passionately, and you will make your case. A little research will help you make the best decisions. Someone close to you will provide some valuable assistance.

Don’t limit what you can do. Explore your options and rule out what doesn’t appeal to you. Use the process of elimination to find what works for you. The spotlight will be your friend.

Get moving. Stay fit if you want to look your best. Time spent engaging in pastimes that broaden your outlook or help you connect with people with something to offer will pay off.

Let your enthusiasm lead the way; you’ll discover something or someone that moves you in a new direction. A change of scenery will offer insight into what’s possible.

Don’t take risks. A challenge will turn into a lesson. Don’t trust others with important matters. If you want something done to your specifications, do it yourself.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Refuse to let your emotions interfere with your judgment. Change what’s necessary. A quick or insincere response is likely to fall flat. Take your time and be honest.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Collect your thoughts, turn them into something tangible and don’t look back. Take responsibility for your actions, and show strength and courage when facing opposition.

Don’t take anyone or anything for granted. Use your talents, knowledge and experience to help you reach your goal. Let your enthusiasm build, and it will attract support.

Pant can play T20 World Cup if he can keep – Jay Shah

Rishabh Pant, who is set to make his long-awaited comeback in the Indian Premier League (IPL) later this month, can play the T20 World Cup for India "if he can keep [wicket]," said Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah.

Pant has been out of action since a horrific car accident in December 2022.

"He is batting well, he is keeping well. We will declare him fit very soon," Shah told PTI. "If he can play the T20 World Cup for us, that will be a big thing for us. He is a big asset for us. If he can keep, he can play the World Cup. Let's see how he does in the IPL."

The accident had left Pant with a severe right knee injury that required a ligament reconstruction surgery besides a fractured wrist and ankle. His Head Coach at Delhi Capitals, Ricky Ponting, had already said that Pant would play the IPL. Last month, Capitals' co-owner Parth Jindal told ESPNcricinfo that Pant "has started his wicketkeeping". Jindal also said Pant was "likely to be fully fit for the IPL" and that he

expected Pant to "lead from match one".

Shami expected to be back later this year

Fast bowler Mohammed Shami, who is recuperating from an ankle surgery, is expected to make his comeback during the home Test series against Bangladesh later this year, Shah said. Shami underwent surgery on his right Achilles tendon in London in February.

Shami missed the fivematch Test series against England, and will also sit out the IPL. He last played for India in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he was a standout performer. India will host

Bangladesh for two Tests and three T20 Internationals in September.

"Shami's surgery is done; he is back in India," Shah said. "Shami's return is likely for the home series against Bangladesh. KL Rahul needed an injection, he has started rehab and is at the NCA."

Rahul missed the last four Tests of the England series after complaining of pain in his right quadriceps. He is expected to turn out for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, having undergone treatment in London. However, it is understood that Rahul still awaiting clearance to join Super Giants. (ESPNcricinfo)

…with a roar at GC Foster Classic

In a dazzling display of unexpected speed, two-time World Championship 400m bronze medallist Sada Williams of Barbados set the track ablaze at the GC Foster Classic in Spanish Town, Jamaica on Saturday. Williams, who trains with the MVP Track Club in Jamaica, not only secured victory but also shattered her country’s national record with a scintillating time of 22.59.

As she crossed the finish line, Williams couldn't contain her joy, letting out a scream that echoed the magnitude of her achievement.

The 26-year-old athlete's triumph was not just a personal victory, but a testament to her resilience and commitment to excellence.

Williams dominated the field, leaving her MVP teammates Natasha Morrison and Tina Clayton in her wake. Both Morrison and Clayton delivered commendable performances with season-best

Barbados’s Sada Williams

times of 23.53 and 23.65, respectively. However, it was Williams who raced to victory with a significant lead.

Explaining the jubilant screams, Williams shared with Sportsmax.TV, "Yes, because I haven’t run that fast since 2016 (when she ran 22.61 as a junior). I was just hoping that the wind was legal. I wasn’t expecting much in the 200m, so I guess this only shows how

Davis makes NBA history as Lakers beat Timberwolves A

nthony Davis scored 27 points with a season-high 25 rebounds on a historic night as the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 120-109.

Davis added five assists, seven steals and three blocks to become the first player in NBA history with at least 25 points, 25 rebounds, five assists, five steals and three blocks in a game.

Team-mate LeBron James chipped in with 29 points.

"I think we're hitting our stride," Davis said.

"We're just trying to keep going, keep pushing, knowing that just like last year, all we got to do is get in. We feel like it's tough for anybody to beat us in a seven-game series. We like our chances against anybody at that point."

The win at Crypto.com Arena leaves the Lakers ninth in the Western Conference after back-toback victories, while thirdplaced Minnesota have lost two in a row.

Elsewhere, the Milwaukee Bucks, who

are second in the Eastern Conference, responded to suc cessive losses to earn a 124-117 win on the road at the Angeles Clippers. Damian Lillard led the way for the Bucks with 35 points and Giannis Antetokounmpo added 34

to ensure the Clippers, placed fourth in the Western Conference, were unable to extend their winning run to three.

Williams breaks Barbados national 200m record

season," she declared.

Reflecting on whether this year's training was more challenging than the past two seasons, during which she earned bronze medals at the World Athletics Championships in Oregon and Budapest, Williams admitted, "That’s a good question. Maybe. All I could tell is that it’s just rough right now, that’s why I was so shocked about the time, because I have been dying the past three weeks."

fast I’ll run in the 400m this season, so I’m very excited to see how that goes. I did not think I was going to come out here and run that fast."

The arduous nature of her training was evident in her post-race comments.

"Training is rough, training is rough. Every day I am just trying to survive. Every day is a constant battle, so I am just trying to survive and hope for the best for another

The Barbadian sprinter is not one to rest on her laurels, as she looks ahead to another challenge – another 200m race in Miramar, Florida in a few weeks. When asked about the expectations in Barbados, Williams expressed confidence in the support she receives. "I know everybody is just hoping that I can make it on the podium for Paris. I know they’ll be very excited as they are every year."

As her fame continues to

soar, Williams admitted to slowly getting used to her celebrity status in Barbados where she has received national honours as well as enjoyed ambassadorial roles for companies in the Private Sector. She anticipates the reactions of her fellow Barbadians, eagerly awaiting their support and enthusiasm. "I am slowly getting used to it. I guess that if I was in Barbados, I would be more pronounced …everywhere I go everybody would be at me, so seeing as I am in Jamaica it isn’t as obvious. But I am slowly getting used to it, so I can't wait to see their reaction." (Sportsmax)

At Kaseya Center in Florida, Washington Wizards upset hosts Miami Heat to claim a 110-108 victory with Kyle Kuzma scoring a game-high 32 points along with nine rebounds, four assists, and two blocks.

It was a second successive win following a franchise-equalling 16game losing streak for the Wizards and means the Heat have now lost three in a row, their worst run since seven successive defeats in January.

The Philadelphia 76ers halted a threegame losing sequence as Kelly Oubre Jr collected 18 points, 10 rebounds, and three steals in a 79-73 win against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

Cam Thomas, featuring in just his second game following a six-match absence due to an ankle injury, scored 29 points in 31 minutes to help the Brooklyn Nets to a 120-101 win against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Nets move within three and a half games of 10th-placed Atlanta Hawks, who lost 116-103 against the New Orleans Pelicans, in the race for the final playoff berth in the Eastern Conference. (BBC Sport)

Verwoerd, Henery, Rieskin, Duke clinch victories

The much-anticipated KFC Fitness Expo concluded on March 10, 2024 at the National Park, Georgetown, attracting athletes from The Bahamas, Czech Republic, and Suriname, organised by the Guyana Fitness Games.

The Fitness Challenge has become a staple in the fitness community, offering categories for Elite RX, Masters, and Teens. With five events for RX and four or five for Masters, the Challenge aims to provide a platform for athletes to showcase and push their fitness boundaries.

Lieke Verwoerd with her drive, determination and passion copped first place in the women's category followed by Fellon Cheung, who just missing out on the top spot by some three points, having to settle for second place instead.

Ramon Rieskin, with his persistence and enthusiasm, persevered in the men's category as he secured first place. Raoul Moendir, who also narrowly missed out on first place by three points, took second, while Romelton Siland had to settle for third place.

A glimpse of the action at the KFC Fitness

Semonica Duke was phenomenal as she showed her dominance in the women’s RX category, as she clinched first place followed by Delice Adonis, who was forced to take the second-place position and Patiqua Cooper had to settle for third place.

Cristopher Henery was another force to be reckoned with as he flexed his muscles in the men’s RX category, taking the premier spot ahead of Linden’s Omisi

Expo

Williams, who was forced to take the second-place position and Joey Kromosetro, who had to settle for third place.

Sponsors in support of the event were Guyana Beverages Inc, through its Oasis Water brand; Mohamed’s Enterprise; MVP Sports; Lucozade; Star Rentals; Trophy Stall; Forrester’s Lumber and Building Complex; Genesis Fitness Gym and Tech Pro Guyana.

Lima or Asuncion? 2027

Pan Am Games host to be decided today

The Pan American Sports Organisation is just a few hours away from announcing the host city of the next Pan American Games.

Today, Tuesday, at the Extraordinary General Assembly of Panam Sports that will be held virtually for all member countries, the election that will define the winning city will be carried out.

The Executive Board and representatives of the candidate cities of Lima and Asuncion will be in Miami. The rest of the participants, Presidents and Secretaries General of the National Olympic Committees, will connect by zoom.

Each of the candidate cities will have 40 minutes to make a presentation to the Assembly, and then time will be given for questions and answers from the member countries.

After the presentations from Lima and Asuncion, the vote will be held. There are 40 member countries with a total of 52 votes, as the Constitution provides that each country that has hosted the Pan American Games is entitled to two votes.

The election of the host city will be carried out by secret ballot. The winning candidate city will need a majority of votes cast by the NOC members of Panam Sports present at the General Assembly with the right to vote.

“We are very happy with the way that this process has turned out. There is a lot of expectation, as we have two great cities of our continent competing for the honour of hosting the 2027 Pan American Games. I am sure that whoever wins this Tuesday will give everything for the success of our Games,” said the Panam

Guinness “Greatest of the Streets”… Three days until anticipated kick-off

Who will be made of more? That’s the question on the lips of teams and fans ahead of the start of this year’s Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” Competition.

Scheduled to commence this Friday, at the National Park, the competition will be played over eight days and the buzz around the town is that all 32 teams are chomping at the bit to see who will emerge champion in the most popular street-style football.

Returning after a fouryear absence, the organisers have put on offer over $1.5 million in prize monies and trophies for the top four finishers, while the winner of the Plate final and Skills Challenge competitions will also be rewarded financially.

Speaking at the launch recently, Guinness Brand Executive Lee Baptiste said that they were expecting keen rivalry among the

teams, adding that even after four years of the tournament’s absence, the feedback among teams and fans point to an exciting experience, one that had become a customary feature of the tournament over the years.

“What we have been hearing within the communities that the teams come from is that they are excited and eager to be part of the event, while similar sentiments have also been expressed by residents of those communities,” Baptiste said.

The winning team will take home $800,000 and the champion’s trophy, while the second-, third- and fourthplace finishers will receive $400,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively.

The winner of the Plate final will cart off $$100,000.

Meanwhile, the first three nights of the competition will be played on a knockout basis, with the winners advanc-

ing to the group phase, before the quarterfinals set for March 30.

Following are the fixtures for the first three nights:

On Friday, March 15: Alexander Village versus Rising Stars; Sophia v Bent Street Young Gunners; Festival City v Laing Avenue Ballers; North East La Penitence v Ballers FC and Gold is Money v Renegade All Stars.

On Saturday, March 16: Broad Street v Make It Happen; California Square v Sophia B; North Ruimveldt v Street Ballers; Albouystown v Airport Ballers and Back Circle v Stabroek Ballers B.

On Sunday, March 17: Up Top Boss v Lodge All Stars; Tiger Bay v Middle Road Ballers; Bent Street v Tucville Rangers; Stabroek Ballers v Bad A Yard; Leopold Street v Unstoppable; Sparta Boss v Back Road Ballers.

Munisar, Campbell...

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Sports President, Neven Ilic.

To ensure the transparency and success of the process, Panam Sports hired the services of renowned British company Lumi, an expert in virtual elections that has worked with the International Olympic Committee and International Federations.

It should be noted that the Extraordinary General Assembly in which the host city of the 2027 Pan American Games will be elected will be broadcast live and exclusively for the entire world through the Panam Sports Channel.

The Guyanese Women went back to winnings ways on Monday

Captain Shemaine Campbell once again led from the front with an 81ball 52 before being trapped by Karishma Ramharack.

Gajnabi hit 33 in 58 deliveries, while the next best score of 11 came off the bat of Munisar. Guyana took a chance on switching up the opening pair and although they did not press on, Mandy Mangru and Realanna

Grimmond both contributed 10 in 27 and 41 balls respectively.

By the end of their 50 Overs, Guyana got to 156 for 8.

Ramharack was the pick of the Trinidadian bowlers, claiming 3-26 in 10 Overs. LeeAnn Kirby had 2 scalps for 24 runs in 10 overs, while Steffie Soogrim, Brianna Harricharan and Ramnath

picked up one wicket each. Guyana’s next assignment in the CG United Women’s Super50 Cup will be against table leaders, Jamaica at the St. Paul’s Sports Complex, Basseterre on Wednesday, March 13. The winner of that match will likely determine the 2024 Champions of the regional tournament. ‘

Windies close to finalising World Cup squad – Sammy

Some 81 days out from the highly-anticipated ICC men’s T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and United States of America (USA); West Indies Head Coach Daren Sammy says he is quite close to determining the final team that will represent the hosts at home, in pursuit of a record third T20 World Cup title.

In a recent interview, the two-time World Cupwinning Captain divulged that there are only about two spots in the West Indies T20 team with question marks still lingering over them.

Sammy shared, “Less than 100 days to go. You know, obviously over the last year and a half, we’ve been fine-tuning our team. From a cricketing aspect,

we’re trying to come up with the final squad of 20, which we’ll have to pick 15 from.”

“The guys have been playing some very good

cricket. We’re at a very settled stage with our team. Maybe one or two spots we’ve got to tinker with,” he went on to disclose.

Sammy, who led the

1st edition of Archery Guyana’s Level 1 Coaching Manual launched

Archery enthusiasts and aspiring archers in Guyana have a new resource to help them at all levels in learning archery using world standards.

This highly-anticipated Archery Coaching Manual will enable archers and coaches to hone their skills and achieve their goals. It was developed by Archery Guyana, the sole-recognised governing body of the sport of archery, and duly sanctioned by World Archery, the Guyana Olympic Association and our National Sports Commission of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

Archery Guyana, in its mandated authority for archery education and training, continues to work with all partners and affiliated within its framework to bring to Guyanese such resources without the need for oppressive costs attached to learning in the sport. This Coaching Manual is aimed to revolutionise the way archery is taught and practised in all regions of the country.

The Archery Coaching Manual serves as a comprehensive guide designed to provide coaches, instructors, and archers of all levels with the knowledge, techniques, and strategies needed to excel in the sport. The manual covers every aspect of archery in detail, making it an indispensable resource for anyone passionate about the sport.

"We are thrilled to introduce the Archery Coaching Manual to the archery community in Guyana," said Head Coach Nicholas Hing.

"This manual represents

years of expertise and experience distilled into a comprehensive guide that will empower coaches and archers to reach their full potential."

The Archery Coaching Manual features contributions from top archery experts and coaches from around the world and at the Olympic level, ensuring that it reflects the latest advancements and best practices in the sport. With easy-to-follow instructions, detailed illustrations, and practical tips, the manual is suitable for archers of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to seasoned competitors.

President of Archery Guyana Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon announced with great delight and pride, that the official manual is now available as an important resource for Guyana.

"Whether you are a beginner picking up a bow for the first time or a seasoned archer honing your skills, this coaching manual is designed to be your comprehensive guide to mastering the art of

archery."

She expressed thanks to the World Archery Team, in particular, Sergio Font, Secretary General of World Archery Americas, Phil Graves and Ludys Tejada. She commended Ryan McKinnon, Robert Singh, Nicholas Hing, Umasankar Madray, Jeewanram Persaud and Saeed Karim for working together to complete this manual.

Archery is a sport that combines physical prowess, mental focus, and technical precision. It requires discipline, dedication, and a willingness to continually learn and improve. With the right guidance and practice, anyone can excel in archery and experience the satisfaction of hitting the bullseye.

The Archery Coaching Manual is now available through Archery Guyana. For more information, please contact the Federation at ArcheryGuyana@gmail. com and the official website can be reached at www.archeryguyana.com

West Indies to World Cup wins in 2012 and 2016 as a player, highlighted communication as a major part of their preparation, revealing that players already know what is expected of them.

Sammy explained, “But for me, the Head Coach of the team, you know [I] already start establishing that communication. Guys already know what roles they have to execute, my constant dialogue with skipper Rovman Powell, making sure we both are in sync and aligned with the things we are looking to do.”

Turning his attention to the global event that will move across the Caribbean

and USA from June 1 to June 29, Sammy says that hosting means ‘everything’ and expressed hope in organisers for ensuring the event goes smoothly.

“Hosting the world Cup in West Indies is everything. We hosted it in 2010, we did not win, but to have it on our home shores again, the impact it will have not only on us cricketers in the islands, in the Region,” he said.

He added, “I’m pretty sure from an administration and planning department, the World Cup Committee in the Caribbean, the different Governments are doing everything to make sure the

facilities will be up to date.”

The 2024 World Cup will bowl off in the USA on June 1 with a clash between hosts USA and Canada at the Grand Prairie Stadium, Texas. The other hosts, West Indies, will mark the beginning of the games in the Caribbean, as they battle Papua New Guinea on June 2 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

While the semi-finals on June 26 and 27 are set for Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana respectively, the grand finale will be hosted at the Kensington Oval, Barbados on June 29.

CG United Women’s Super50 Cup… Munisar, Campbell lead Guyana to victory A

shmini Munisar’s 5-fer helped Guyana’s Senior Women rebound to their winning ways on Monday, as the West Indies Under-19 Captain inspired a 61-run victory over Trinidad and Tobago’s Women.

After failing to show up against the Barbados Women on Friday last, the Guyanese capitalised on the weekend’s rest, to come back stronger with bat and ball at the Conaree Sports Club, St Kitts and Nevis.

Munisar’s 5-15 in 8 overs was the chief architect in Trinidad’s demise for just 95 in 42 overs. Niya Latchman assisted with 2-24 in 8 overs, while Shabika Gajnabi took 1-17 in 6 overs.

Samara Ramnath was the top scorer for Trinidad and Tobago in the chase, hitting 20 from 52 deliveries. Shunelle Sawh was next best, with 18 from 36 balls, while Selene Oneil and Kirbyina Alexander pitched in with 16 runs off 53 balls and 14 off 46 deliveries respectively.

However, Guyana’s compact bowling line-up ensured

that no other Trinidadian batter got past 5 runs, as they fell 61 runs short of their target.

Earlier in the day, Trinidad won the toss and sent Guyana in to bat first.

While the Guyanese batting has been on a see-saw the entire tournament, Monday was one of the better days with bat in hand.

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