Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 01-04-2024

‘At maximum oil production Guyana will remain a carbon sink’

–– Jagdeo assures, reminds of country’s massive forestry coverage,

Many

‘Regrettable’

–– Guyana’s efforts regarding Venezuelan migrants appear to have gone unnoticed on int’l stage, gov’t says

‘Swiftly and rigidly’ gov’t is cracking down on contract breaches –– AG says in stern warning

Gov’t mulls licensing regime to curb illegal fishing; initiative could save millions

‘We will succeed’ – Jadgeo

–– says PPP’s growth signals victory in 2025 elections

Bartica Regatta 2024 continues with spectacular showcase of culture

THIS Easter weekend marked the continuation of Bartica Regatta 2024, one of Guyana’s most colourful and anticipated yearly events. Thousands of people flocked to the charming township of Bartica, which is situated at the meeting point of the Essequibo, Mazaruni, and Cuyuni Rivers.

Easter Monday (today) will mark the conclusion of the 2024 edition of the Regatta, which offers an exciting blend of high-speed boat races, cultural displays, and entertainment that showcases the rich diversity and spirit of Guyana.

The event, which aims to promote tourism and unity among the country’s diverse population was inaugurated with a grand opening attended by several officials.

The powerboat races, which are the focal point of the regatta, attract some of the nation’s fastest and most accomplished pilots. A record number of competitors entered the tournament this

year, with classes ranging from tiny engines to the ferocious 200 horsepower (HP) vehicles that rip through the water at amazing speeds.

Children and adults alike gathered along the banks of the Essequibo River on Sunday to watch and applaud as colourful boats raced past, setting off a breath-taking image against the lush surroundings of the area.

The Bartica Regatta 2024 is showcasing a range of sports and cultural events in addition to the heart-pounding boat racing. Alongside the water races were swim meets, resort hopping, grass track racing and road races, so there is something for everyone.

At Sunday’s races, Region Seven Chairman Kenneth Williams, who also serves as the chair of the Bartica Regatta Committee, was mingling with racegoers along the riverbank.

“We’re having an excellent time. We started a bit late but based on the results and what patrons have said, Regatta 2024 started with a bang and we’re confident

as we go forward that we will see thrills and patrons being enthralled by what is going on here today,” said an elated Williams, during an interview with the Guyana Chronicle.

He expressed that he was quite happy with the attendance and people who travelled from other regions and overseas to be part of Regatta 2024. A highlight of the Regatta was the cultural night, which included dance performances, local and foreign performers.

The Miss Bartica Regatta Pageant, which takes place tonight at the Bartica Community Centre, is one of the most eagerly awaited events of the Regatta.

Seven young women will compete for the coveted title, exhibiting not only their physical attractiveness but also their talent, intelligence, and dedication to volunteerism. The goal of this year’s contest is to draw attention to the importance of women in Guyanese society and their contributions to the diversity

of its culture.

According to Williams, he is excited about the “famous” Miss Bartica Regatta Pageant. He promised that the event will be “bigger and better” this year.

In addition to taking in the local cuisine, attendees of the Bartica Regatta 2024 are also savouring foreign cuisine and traditional Guyanese delicacies, making sure that guests are treated to both the taste of Guyanese hospitality and the excitement of the racing.

In addition to serving as a symbol of Guyana’s passion for boat racing and cultural celebration, the event is essential to the growth of the region’s economy and tourism.

Significant gains in business during the Regatta are reported by hotels, guest houses, and other local establishments, highlighting the event’s significance for the Bartica community and its environs.

Even though Bartica depends heavily on extractive industries for sustenance, Williams said the town is “di-

verting into tourism because we recognise that tourism is extremely important for us to survive as a region.”

He added: “We cannot be depending on the extractive industries forever. So, we need tourism to help improve our economy.”

Both big and small companies have sponsored this year’s Bartica Regatta, and Williams expressed his gratitude for their support. He said that business backing for the yearly event “has always been there” and is still increasing.

Excitement is still strong as the Bartica Regatta nears its end, and even bigger audiences are anticipated for the last events. The Regional Chairman has already pronounced the hosting this year to be a great success. Events for Bartica Regatta 2024 commenced from March 16.

Because of its thrilling racing, vibrant cultural exhibitions, and sense of community, the Regatta is an annual event that both locals and tourists should not miss.

It continues to represent Guyanese pride.

‘At maximum oil production Guyana will remain a carbon sink’

–– Jagdeo assures, reminds of country’s massive forestry coverage, ability to trap emissions

AT maximum production of its oil and gas resources, Guyana will remain a carbon sink nation, Guyana’s Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has said.

Dr. Jagdeo’s comments came after the country’s focus on fossil-fuel extraction was questioned regarding whether it would contradict global efforts to combat climate change during a recent publication of BBC’s HARDtalk.

Defending the government’s strategic decision to utilise its oil resources while simultaneously maintaining its forest, Dr. Jagdeo reminded that the country boasts over 87 per cent of standing forest.

“Every year, our forest sequester over 150 million tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere. If we are emitting 12 million tonnes per annum from six FPSO [Floating Production Storage and Offloading], we don’t have six operating as yet but I am talking about peak that [sic] is only seven per cent of the carbon that our forest sequesters from the atmosphere.”

‘So we cannot become a carbon bomb. We will remain a carbon sink even at maximum production at 1.5 million barrels per year,” he added.

Guyana’s forest stores approximately 19.5 gigatonnes of carbon with the country maintaining a low deforestation rate, Dr. Jagdeo explained.

“We have the lowest deforestation rate in the world and after 100 years of producing gold, we still have 85 per cent of our country covered with forest.

CLIMATE PROOF

Recognising the threat and vulnerability brought on by climate

change, Guyana is spending millions to ensure climate security.

“We will be spending 122 million [dollars] of the 150 million [dollars] we earned from the sale of forest carbon and over time maybe over, two` billion from the sale of forest carbon to climate proof ourselves,” Dr. Jagdeo explained.

ground-breaking Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, Guyana has set out a vision for monetising the climate and ecosystem services provided by our standing forest, while accelerating the country’s economic development along a low carbon trajectory.

Even as Guyana seeks to implement initiatives

by the developed world, but they want us to be more responsible.”

GOOD MANAGEMENT OF RESOURCES

Guyana, Dr. Jagdeo said has been managing its resources in a sustainable and accountable manner.

“We are managing

Back in January 2023

Guyana received its first payment of US$37.5 for carbon credits under an agreement with the Hess Corporation. Then in July, a similar sum was handed over to Guyana, bringing the total received this far to US$75 million. Guyana is expected to collect a minimum of US$750 million by 2030.

The payments are a result of the Government of Guyana’s continued recognition of the important role that the country’s forests play in not only the development of the country, but in combatting climate change globally.

Guided by the

to combat the effects of climate change, Dr. Jagdeo reminded the nation that the vulnerability of climate change exist whether the country produces oil or not.

“This vulnerability is not driven because of our own action but because of what is [happening] globally…to which we are a minuscule contributor,” he said.

What about the amoral obligation of the develop world? Jagdeo questioned before adding: “The current concentration of greenhouse gases that is already driving climate change was almost out there entirely

even better than most of the developed world. We have total transparency in [our] resources. Every cent has to be appropriated by the Parliament before it is spent,” he explained.

In 2021, the government amended the Natural Resource Fund Act to bring greater transparency and accountability in the management of Guyana’s

oil resources, including the requirement of the government to seek annual Parliamentary approval for withdrawals from the NRF as stated in Section 19 of the NRF Act 2021.

“We are very pleased with our stewardship and strong measures that we have put in place to manage the sector,” Dr. Jagdeo added.

Electronic Single Window Processing Unit to be implemented soon

THE Ministry of Housing and Water will introduce its Electronic Single Window Processing Unit (ESWPU) for construction permits in the coming weeks.

This was revealed by subject minister Collin Croal during a recent interview on The Guyana Dialogue.

The unit was first talked about by Minister Croal during the launch of the 2023 Building Expo.

This publication had previously reported that the minister indicated that the platform is critical to making the sector more efficient and will contribute greatly to the improvement of doing business. He had said that the system will give Guyanese the opportunity to access the relevant information they need from any part of the country.

“The single-window platform will provide a single-entry point for submission, processing and approval for all your planning and development applications. These applications and other documents can be submitted from anywhere in the world, once the platform is fully implemented,” he had said.

He had also said that this intervention will significantly reduce the tedium that obtain in a process that is costly, frustrating, inefficient and outdated and will yield tremendous dividends for users.

During his interview on Friday, Minister Croal stated that a tremendous amount of work has been done on the ESWPU.

According to him, the ministry will be able to ensure transparency, while also eliminating subjectivity.

authority, which is a must.

He further stated: “It gives a timeline for a response. We are currently gazetting the regulations. We’ve already passed the law. To make the other aspect complete is the regulations. So, the regulations speak towards how the timeline by which an agency must respond, and if they do not respond by x time, then it is deemed as you are giving your approval.”

Explaining the process, Minister Croal said: “The process as it is now is that you make an application. You file that manually, you put in the necessary plans, our Office Planning Unit receives this, and then it’s disseminated to the various agencies that have to give their objection, and then you’re awaiting their feedback, whether it’s from a local

So, the local authority, whether it’s the Fire Department, whether it’s the EPA, the Environmental Protection Agency; whether it’s for the Health Board, these are all agencies that are involved in approval, giving their no objection.”

Finally, a report is then generated and is given to the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).

Additionally, Minister Croal said they are cognisant of the fact that there are some regions where persons may have immense challenges in adapting to the use of technology to submit their applications, and has assured that the ministry will continue along with both the manual and electronic systems.

Moreover, the min -

istry, through a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Local Government, has facilitated for there to be computer systems and scanners at

every local authority, so that persons will soon be able to go to the offices in or near communities to complete and submit their applications.

Gov’t spends over $313M on road upgrades in Manchester

SEVERAL thoroughfares in Manchester, Region Six, underwent major rehabilitation to the tune of $313.3 million, aimed at bolstering community development and improving accessibility and connectivity to enhance the livelihood of residents.

The project is part of a broader effort by the Ministry of Public Works’ Miscellaneous Road Programme, which has seen substantial investment in infrastructure works across various communities in the region.

This includes the rehabilitation of First Cross Street, West of Manchester Secondary School, and Second Cross Street, East of Manchester Secondary School, each receiving individual investments exceeding $20 million.

One of the upgraded roads in Manchester

Third Cross Street, West of Manchester Secondary School was upgraded to the tune of $24.5 million.

An essential component of this initiative is the rehabilitation of Manchester Nursery School streets,

encompassing both lot one and lot two, with a combined investment of over $31 million.

These projects hold the promise of providing a secure and accessible environment for students, teachers, and all road users within the community.

The impact of these infrastructural upgrades extends beyond school routes.

The $24 million upgrade to Third Cross Street, East of Manchester Secondary School, and the $18 million investment at Fifth Cross Street West of Middlewalk Liverpool Village, are poised to make a significant impact on the daily lives of residents.

Similarly, rehabilitation works were executed on the First Cross Street and Hogstye main access road, to address longstanding issues of road quality and safety.

Hundreds of residents and road users will benefit

from reduced travel time and accessibility. These projects are valued at some $17.7 million and $19.5 million, respectively.

Additionally, the government invested over $45 million for the rehabilitation of the Main Access, North and South, First Cross Street, which will provide connectivity in the region.

Works were also executed on the Main Access (Place of Worship Street), Kuru Kuru College Street, Manchester, to promote economic growth within the communities.

These infrastructural upgrades are in line with the PPP/C Government’s vision to deliver significant relief to citizens and foster community and economic development. (DPI)

From mud dam to concrete road:

Black Bush Polder residents rejoice

BLACK Bush Polder, Region Six residents are bidding farewell to the era of mud dams, as the community underwent a remarkable transformation with the construction of concrete road networks

Welcoming the new development, the residents shared that the upgrades have brought immense relief, as they no longer have to contend with the challenges posed by the previous unpaved roads.

Longtime resident, Camache Leonard, expressed her joy and relief for the new infrastructure.

Speaking with the Department of Public Information (DPI) recently, Leonard recalled the difficulties of navigating the muddy paths for decades.

“For 50 years we lived with this dam very bad; we punish from this road. When the whole place flood I had to walk with a stick and come out; fall, get up back. Now with the

new road, we could go to the market and come home with the vehicle till to our house. I thank the government for making this nice road,” the 70-year-old resident shared.

Tina Harry underscored the impact the mud dam had on school-going children particularly hers.

Nonetheless, she expressed her gratitude to the

government for the new road, emphasising the benefits it brings to the entire community.

“Since the children used to go primary school, they go through mud till they go high school and now they get the road to go to high school and it’s a benefit for everyone,” Harry shared.

Vastie David shared

similar sentiments while highlighting the improved accessibility for school children.

She said “The road is alright for the school children. It was hard when the rain fell, you didn’t want to come out. Now you get a smooth street to ride your motorbike.”

Basmattie Leonard also expressed gratitude

and emphasised the difference it has made compared to the previous mud dam.

She recounted how her yard would often flood, causing damage to her garden and creating challenges for daily activi -

ties such as washing and cooking.

The massive overhaul of these 20 interior roads in Black Bush Polder is part of the Ministry of Public Works’ Miscellaneous Road Programme. (DPI)

A Law-abiding Nation

IN the face of escalating aggression from neighbouring Venezuela, Guyana, under the leadership of President, Dr Irfaan Ali, stands firmly in its commitment to safeguard its territorial integrity and ensuring regional stability.

President Ali’s recent reaffirmation of Guyana’s unwavering stance during an interview with the BBC’s HARDtalk underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for international support.

Venezuela’s recent manoeuvres, including the approval of a new state in Guyana’s resource-rich Essequibo region, pose a direct threat to Guyana’s sovereignty. Despite ongoing proceedings before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Venezuela persists in its attempts to assert illegitimate claims over Guyana’s territory.

However, Guyana remains resolute in its position, asserting the non-negotiability of its borders and reaffirming its sovereignty over the region.

President Ali’s declaration that Guyana believes in the international rule of law and seeks peaceful resolutions through diplomatic channels is commendable.

While Guyana invests in military capabilities and infrastructure to deter aggression, diplomacy remains its first line of defence.

The support of key allies such as the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Canada, and regional bodies such as CARICOM is crucial in deterring destabilising actions from Venezuela.

Guyana’s readiness to defend its sovereignty is evident, with President Ali

affirming the country’s willingness to call upon every force and friend if its territorial integrity is breached. Attorney-General Anil Nandlall also called for condemnation of Venezuela’s actions and advocacy for compliance with international law resonates with the principles of justice and peace.

Guyana’s decision in 2018 to approach the ICJ seeking affirmation of the 1899 Arbitral Award’s legitimacy demonstrates its commitment to upholding the rule of law and resolving controversies through legal means. Despite Venezuela’s initial defiance, the ICJ’s ruling affirming jurisdiction opened the door for a substantive examination of the case’s merits, highlighting the importance of international institutions in resolving disputes peacefully.

In bolstering its defence and diplomatic efforts with the help of international partners, Guyana remains focused on defence rather than offence. The commitment to the Argyle Declaration, advocating for dialogue and cooperation to prevent tensions, also reflects Guyana’s proactive approach to maintaining regional stability.

As Guyana stands firmly against Venezuela’s aggression, it sends a clear message that it will not compromise on its sovereignty. The international community must stand in solidarity with Guyana, condemning any attempts to undermine its territorial integrity and supporting peaceful resolutions to the controversy.

Only through collective action can we ensure a future of stability and prosperity for the region.

President Ali’s BBC HARDTalk interview

ALL Guyanese should be extremely proud of how our President, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali consistently represents Guyana on international platforms exceptionally brilliantly. Especially in cases where some of the arrogant western academics and journalists believe that they are intellectually superior over countries like ours with non-white leaders.

In this letter, I would like to complement some of the arguments that the President put forward in response to the BBC reporter, by expanding on some key points.

It is important to highlight that some of the HARDtalk host’s facts were incorrect. In particular, he quoted from some [unknown] “experts” that Guyana’s crude oil will emit over two billion tonnes of carbon into the atmosphere. But this is wholly incorrect. The carbon emission from Guyana’s total crude oil reserves (11 billion barrels) will in fact be 4.5x (to be exact) less or nearly five times less than the figure that the BBC journalist posited.

I recently authored a “critical review” of a proposed carbon tax article published by a Guyanese academic, wherein I pointed out that the carbon intensity of Guyana’s crude oil is likely to be less than the average carbon intensity per barrel in the United States (U.S) (0.433 mt/barrel), which the author relied on. The carbon content per barrel of crude oil varies based on geographic location and the type/quality of crude. In the case of Guyana,

we have the light sweet crude, which means that the carbon intensity in our crude oil is more likely to be less than the carbon content of say Venezuela for instance, because Venezuela has the heavier and sour crude and the global weighted average.

In my critical review of the said paper, I relied on a more recent credible empirical study that utilised a global dataset to calculate the weighted average carbon intensity. The weighted average, according to that study is 0.051 mt/barrel, whereas the average carbon intensity in the U.S according to U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is 0.433 mt/ barrel. This means that the global weighted average is lower than the arithmetic average for the U.S.

It turns out that I was correct. At his press conference held on March 28th, 2024, the Vice President disclosed that the carbon content in our crude oil is 40 kg (0.040 mt) per barrel. This means that the carbon content in Guyana’s crude (0.04 mt/barrel) is indeed lower than the global weighted average (0.051 mt/barrel).

As such, the carbon content for the proven reserves of 11 billion barrels, thus far, is an estimated 440 million mt, almost five times less than the 2 billion mt that the BBC reporter posited. Consequently, Guyana will remain carbon neutral if not carbon negative.

When the BBC HARDtalk reporter, Stephen Sackur asked President Ali about the resentment expressed by the Opposition

Leader against the backdrop of the revenues derived from the oil resources, and when he spoke of poverty by referencing an [unverified] estimated 38 per cent, it is important that an appropriate contextual perspective is established that escaped the BBC reporter. The inference drawn, in that regard, suggests that there was an expectation gap, such that Guyana should have already eradicated 100 per cent poverty in just three years after becoming the newest oil producer. Practically, is that even possible―that is, eradication of 100 per cent poverty in three years?

Guyana is a former British colony that gained independence just under 60 years ago. So, as an independent State, Guyana is less than 60 years old. Let’s reflect on how the British Empire was built and the sources their accumulated wealth today. To this end, the British Empire was built, viz-á-viz, the more than three centuries of global slave trade through the colonisation of Africa, India, and the West Indies. Recent studies estimated that the economic value (after accounting for time value of money/at present value) of the global slave trade is an estimated US$131 trillion, of which Africa alone accounted for about US$70 trillion (53 per cent), India accounted for US$45 trillion (34 per cent), and the West Indies accounted for an estimated US$16 trillion (12.2 per cent).

With the foregoing in mind, in 2022, global GDP (PPP) stood at US$100 trillion, which

means that the estimated value of the global slave trade represents 131 per cent of the present-day global GDP. So, to put this into perspective, the British Empire’s accumulated wealth, was built over three centuries of slave trade, valued at 131 per cent of present-day wealth of the entire world.

Guyana’s oil wealth, on the other hand, in terms of proven reserve currently stands at an estimated 11 billion barrels, worth an estimated US$832 billion. But, Guyana has only commenced production over the last three years, and to date, has extracted three per cent of the total proven reserves, valued at US$42 billion or five per cent of the total present value of the proven reserves. Moreover, Guyana’s Government share of the revenues inclusive of projected earnings for 2024 is an estimated US$6 billion (0.7 per cent) of the total present value of the proven reserves; less than one per cent of the total value of proven reserves.

It is reasonable to conclude, therefore, that with the foregoing contextual perspective in mind, that the British reporter expects President Ali to do in three years, what the British Empire did in three hundred years, with only 0.005 per cent of the resources that the British Empire exploited from Africa, India and the West Indies combined.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

Up, up and away and stay there, Guyana

OBVIOUSLY I won’t be able to capture the ambience on the Turkeyen seawall in front of my home in today’s column.

But given the buoyant state of Guyana’s economy, I expect thousands more on the wall today than in previous years.

Each year, I would look from my upper verandah and see the thousands that line the Turkeyen wall. Imagine what it will be like today.

In today’s Guyana, despite some hardened minds based on political instincts, Guyanese see a future for this country, a future that has evaded us for over 70 years. As in the HARDtalk documentary on Guyana, one of the interviewees told the host, “It is Guyana’s time.” Yes this is Guyana’s time. And we should all welcome it despite whatever political party we choose.

I will relate a conversation I had about 15 years ago on the Subryanville seawall. We had not discovered oil as yet. I was going west and Manniram Prashad east. We stopped to greet each other and chatted about the future of Guyana and Manny asked me if we found oil if that would not change Guyana forever. I don’t know what he knew back then but that was what he said. Obviously he knew something. Now we have oil and as the host of the HARDtalk documentary noted, Guyana will have tens of billions of dollars coming its way with oil.

Here is another conversation on the sidewall in 1986. I had just come back

home and got a teaching job at UG. I ran into a lecturer who taught me history at UG and was now a senior lecturer, Dr. David Chanderbali. Things were rough back then. We had not emerged as yet from the economic chaos the Burnham government had created.

Dr. Chanderbali said he didn’t care for politics; all he wanted from Guyana was to have light, water and foodstuff. Before I come to the point, one last example but not from the seawall. This was in 1988. I had a lecture friend at UG; we were close when we were UG students. We were talking about the economy and he said his friend from the Bahamas was in Guyana and while talking about Guyana his friend was laughing saying that Guyana is the only country in the Caribbean that when you are flying over it you don’t see lights below.

I remember the conversations with those three gentlemen when I look at Guyana today. But let me offer you one more example before I elaborate. This time from UG again. This was in 1990.

I had a student named Imtyaz Mohamed who was the manager of a newly created department within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs named the Foreign Service Institute. He gave me printing paper each week to print handouts for students. Other lecturers had their own sources too. It was a terrible period at UG where even chalk you couldn’t get muchless printing paper.

This was Guyana back then when the future was never there and dreams and

hopes were all those of us who chose to stay had. Today, Guyana as a county is soaring to the skies surrounded by thousands of kites. The kites will come down as sunset steps in today and lay their restless bodies on the ground but Guyana will keep climbing long after Monday evening when the kites are gone. As Kit Nascimento said to me, ‘The future has come for us too late given our age but the future belongs to those in Guyana who deserve it.’

I leave you with a song that was a big hit around the world when I was in short pants. It typifies Guyana and its people.

The Fifth Dimension- Up, up and away Would you like to ride in my beautiful balloon

Would you like to ride in my beautiful balloon We could float among the stars together, you and I For we can fly, we can fly

Up, up and away My beautiful, my beautiful balloon The world’s a nicer place in my beautiful balloon

It wears a nicer face in my beautiful balloon We can sing a song and sail along the silver sky

For we can fly, we can flyUp, up and away My beautiful, my beautiful balloon

Suspended under a twilight canopy

We’ll search the clouds for a star to guide us If by some chance you find yourself loving me We’ll find a cloud to hide us

We’ll keep the moon beside us Love is waiting there in my beautiful balloon

Way up in the air in my beautiful balloon If you’ll hold my hand we’ll chase your dream across the sky

For we can, fly we can fly

Up, up and away My beautiful, my beautiful balloon

Create smaller power stations to end the suffering

Dear Editor,

GIVEN the constant failures of the GPL interconnected system and the resulting power outages affecting large swathes of the country simultaneously, is it not time to consider the benefits of ‘disconnecting’ the grid? That is to say, break the grid into smaller chunks, each dependent on a particular power

station and independent of each other.

How much longer should people in Berbice and Demerara suffer when some idiot driver smashes into a transmission pole in Mon Repos?

We can even take this idea forward logically; each power station can have its management team or ‘ownership’, then we can break the GPL monopoly, and new companies can compete to supply

areas, for example, planned industrial estates such as being developed in Enmore, can be supplied by a new, independent power station run by an independent entity.

GPL has failed to deliver a solution. The government can keep trying to flog this horse or move to introduce new bloodstock; whatever the choice, there is the need to fix the energy supply crisis as

a matter of national urgency.

Albert Einstein did describe ‘Insanity’ as continuing to do the same thing over and over again while expecting a different result, so if interconnection is not the answer, disconnection may well be what we are missing.

‘We will succeed’

Jadgeo – says PPP’s growth signals victory in 2025 elections

CONFIDENT of victory

in the 2025 elections, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, has reiterated the party’s unwavering commitment to transforming lives and ensuring that every citizen can fulfil their dreams.

He delivered this stirring message of transformation and inclusivity at the party’s fun day and BBQ, held on Saturday at the Everest Cricket Club Ground, Georgetown.

Jagdeo began by acknowledging the party’s significant growth, stressing that “the party is growing enormously.”

Despite this surge, he humbly reminded attendees that victory in the upcoming elections cannot be taken for granted.

“We’re going to win

those elections. But we are not taking anything for granted. That’s the nature of the People’s Progressive Party. We believe that only hard work, and fulfilling your promises and having a vision for this country, and implementing that vision that you can really earn in a lasting way, ‘People’s Support,’” the General Secretary said.

Central to Jagdeo’s message was the notion of inclusivity. He proudly proclaimed the PPP as “the only multi-ethnic, multi-religious party in this country,” highlighting its unique ability to bring together people from all walks of life.

This commitment to unity, Jagdeo argued, is not just a political strategy but a fundamental aspect of the PPP’s identity.

“We are the single

largest party, but also the only multi-ethnic, multi-religious party in this country,” he proudly proclaimed, asserting that this philosophy positions them for success in future elections.

Jagdeo pointed to the enthusiastic turnout at recent community visits, particularly in the Rupununi region, as evidence of the PPP’s broad-based support.

“Our support is widespread. It’s not just in the coastal communities. It’s not just in the traditional communities that supported the PPP; it is also in the hinterland,” he remarked.

Reflecting on the challenges facing the nation, Jagdeo cautioned against succumbing to populist views and emphasised the importance of consistency in governance.

“We have to make sure that we remain consistent with what we are doing; and steadfastly, day by day, the transformation will take place,” he asserted.

Throughout his address, Jagdeo reiterated the PPP’s commitment to inclusivity, stating, “The PPP is about bringing people together.”

He expressed pride in the party’s role as a unifying force in the nation’s diverse landscape, emphasising that their multi-ethnic and multi-religious identity sets them apart from other political entities.

“I’m extremely proud as the General Secretary of this party about that task of ours of bringing people together. Because of this philosophy, we will succeed whenever the time comes for the election,” he said.

Jagdeo’s words resonated with attendees, instilling a sense of hope and optimism for the future under PPP leadership.

With a clear vision, a commitment to hard work, and a dedication to inclusivity, the PPP aims to secure victory in the upcoming elections and continue its mission of transforming lives and fulfilling the dreams of all

Guyanese citizens.

Earlier this month, President Dr Irfaan Ali said that the party is steering the nation towards unprecedented success, setting the stage to propel it to “higher heights.”

He was at the time delivering his address at Babu Jaan, Port Mourant, East Berbice-Corentyne, to pay homage to the party’s late founder, Dr Cheddi Jagan.

“Today, we [PPP/C] are not only the largest national party… We are the fastest-growing party anywhere here in Latin America, the Caribbean,” President Ali said.

Speaking directly to the party’s supporters, President Ali said: “I want us together to give a resounding round of applause to all those who have joined us in this moment of consciousness, all those who have joined us in this period when we will take Guyana, taking the soul of our country to higher heights.”

He invoked the legacy of the late Dr Cheddi Jagan, the founding leader of the PPP, underscoring the enduring principles of equality, dignity, and democracy as guiding lights for the nation’s progress.

“If you examine the policies of the government

today, you will see how we are staying true to the astounding elements and principles of the soul of the nation,” President Ali affirmed.

Opinion polls have indicated a significant increase in support for the PPP/C, positioning the party on a towering path with growing backing from the populace.

The polls have pointed to an upward increase in support for the PPP/C with loss of support for the opposition People’s National Congress Reform-led A Partnership for National Unity Coalition (PNC/R-APNU).

Also, the PPP/C has maintained a dominant presence since 1992, currently holding 33 of 65 seats in the National Assembly.

Meanwhile, the restoration of confidence in the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) with the removal of persons implicated in the efforts to derail the 2020 elections, cleared the way for the successful execution of the Local Government Elections.

The PPP/C won 67 of the 80 Local Authority Areas, after securing significant support in known strongholds of the APNU/PNC.

‘Swiftly and rigidly’ gov’t is cracking down on contract breaches –– AG

IN the wake of persistent delays plaguing major infrastructure projects in Guyana, the government has intensified its efforts to address contractual breaches and ensure timely project completion.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., while speaking on his Facebook programme ‘Issues in the News,’ recently underscored the government’s commitment to holding contractors accountable for their failure to honour obligations.

He pointed out that urgency to address contract breaches comes amidst reports of protracted delays, prompting Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill and President Dr. Irfaan Ali to personally visit work sites in recent months.

Nandlall highlighted the gravity with which the government views breaches of contracts, stating, “Now it is already a matter of public record that the government is viewing the breach of contracts by contractors... seriously.”

The Attorney-General

underscored the Cabinet’s decision to enforce contractual clauses swiftly and rigidly in cases of breaches or unexplained delays.

These clauses, he noted, include penalties such as liquidated damages and the option for the government to terminate contracts and sue for damages.

“Government will not countenance negligence from contractors. Government will not countenance delinquency. Government will not countenance breaches of contractual obligations. These contracts are multimillion dollars in nature.

“So, it’s not a question of contractors not making money. There are cases where a delay may be justified, or a breach may be justified,” Nandlall declared, stressing the state’s commitment to upholding promises made to the public regarding project delivery timelines.

While acknowledging that some delays or breaches may be justified, Nandlall stressed that each case would be evaluated individually. He clarified that the government’s intention is not to unjustly penalise

Attorney-General

Anil Nandlall, S.C.

contractors but rather to ensure compliance with contractual obligations.

Addressing contractors directly, Nandlall warned, “You cannot breach your contracts with impunity.”

He expressed the government’s hope that contractors would fulfil their obligations promptly to avoid activation of contractual penalties.

Despite government urgings, delays have persisted, prompting Minister Edghill to issue ultimatums to contractors.

One such project, the long-delayed Cemetery Road upgrade in Georgetown, has faced significant setbacks.

Minister Edghill had announced that the contractor, Avinash Constructing and Scrap Metal Inc., must complete the project by the end of March 2024 or face contract termination.

The project, initially

says in stern warning

slated for completion by the end of January 2024, has faced extensions and delays, raising concerns about the contractor’s ability to deliver.

Additionally, the Conversation Tree to Dennis Street Project, valued at $1.8 billion, has encountered similar challenges. Despite extensions granted to Trinidadian company Kallco Guyana

Inc., the project remains incomplete, prompting Minister Edghill to hint at possible sanctions.

During inspections of various infrastructure projects under the 2023 capital work programmes, Minister Edghill also noted delays at the Aubrey Barker Road expansion and Lamaha Street Extension projects.

Gov’t mulls licensing regime to curb illegal fishing ––

initiative could save millions, Jagdeo says

GUYANA loses some $100 million yearly as a result of illegal fishing in its waters and to address this, the government is considering the implementation of a licensing regime.

Speaking at his weekly press conference on Thurs-

day, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo said that while

more investments in the country’s maritime assets are being made, a system to keep illegal fishing at bay will come on stream.

“It is estimated that we could lose as much as $100 million per year from illegal fishing in our waters, but this is in the deep seas though. So, investing in more assets for the army would have that significant benefit of bringing in revenue, even if it doesn’t allow us to bring in revenue, because they can keep the illegal fishing out…so that we can actively exercise a licensing regime, so that there’d be more revenue for the country,” the Vice-President said.

Earlier in the week it was announced that Guyana would acquire maritime assets from France to boost the country’s capacity.

Back in November 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture had outlined a National Plan of Action to prevent, deter, and eliminate illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.

“There is a continued demand for fish and fish products, owing to the massive expansion of our global population. Fish has emerged as an important commodity for the achievement of food security. However, we are cognisant of the fact that our efforts to ensure the sustainability of the fishing industry face significant threats such as climate change and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. The Government of Guyana continues to invest heavily in proactive initiatives that ensure Guyana is on a sustainable path to being

a food-secure nation. This plan of action, therefore, strives to promote longterm conservation and the sustainable use of our fisheries resources,” Guyana’s Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha had said.

The framework aims to provide a targeted approach towards fisheries monitoring, control, surveillance, and enforcement, given the nature of the fisheries and the limited human and financial resources.

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities are responsible for the loss of 11-26 million tins of fish each year, which is estimated to have an economic value of US $10 – 23 billion. In order to combat this, Sustainable Development Goal Number 4 urges the international community to effectively regulate harvesting and end overfishing, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing and destructive fishing practices.

Back in 2021, the Fisheries Department began working with the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) to develop Guyana’s National Plan of Action for the fight against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (NPOA-IUU) Fishing.

This NPOA would be based on the principles of the Regional Plan of Action (RPOA-IUU), which seeks to assist its member states in implementing the foremost measure in the RPOAIUU.

‘Joe’ Jagmohan invests over $30M to convert

Hampton Court rice field into community ground

nity will have the right to use it.

ESSEQUIBO born businessman, Parmeshwar Jagmohan, known as ‘Joe’, on Sunday, commissioned a community ground at Hampton Court, which was the end result of a more than $30 million investment.

The businessman who is the Managing Director of International Imports and Supplies located at Lot 15 Garnett Street, Georgetown, spent his own money to convert a five-acre rice field into a community ground. This kind gesture was done in memory of his late mother, Chano Jagmohan.

Jagmohan, during an interview with this publication, said he has fond memories of the Region Two community where he spent most of his childhood.

He recalled that, whilst growing up, he played cricket and other sports in the community.

He said that when the Sankar family sold their lands, youths in the area had no place for recreation. He saw it fitting to establish one.

According to the businessman, the community ground will be used to promote culture, all sport disciplines and will not be confined to any religion. He said that every member of the commu-

He told this publication that he spent over $30 million to ensure that the ground is in a safe state and can be used for its intended purposes.

It is the businessman’s wish for the residents of the entire region to utilise the ground.

Meanwhile, Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir who attended the simple but significant commissioning ceremony, said that it was more than an appreciative gesture made by the businessman.

“I appreciate the amount of work that he has put into building this facility.

Having been involved as an executive and president of the Everest Cricket Club, I know what it takes to get sporting facilities up.

I urge all those who use it to take excellent care of the facility,” Nadir said.

Nadir said that he saw all the hard work and dedication that was put in by Jagmohan in developing the ground.

Nadir said he was confident that next year’s memorial cricket match will bring massive development to the region.

Region Two Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, used the opportunity to commend Jagmohan and team for the initiative.

A softball cricket compe-

tition with 14 teams was held at the ground on Sunday. The first prize of $1 million was up for grabs.

The second and third place winners were to be awarded $ 300,000 and $100,000 respectively.

There was also a best player award and other special prizes including several ram sheep for the various teams.

‘Regrettable’

–– Guyana’s efforts regarding Venezuelan migrants appear to have gone unnoticed on int’l stage, gov’t says

THE Guyana government is disappointed that, despite considerable efforts, the international community does not seem to be taking notice of the assistance being given to Venezuelan migrants.

This official document is the key to affirming their Guyanese citizenship status.

Furthermore, the government emphasised that the country’s laws strictly prohibit refoulement, underscoring its commitment to upholding human rights standards and ensuring the protection of migrants within its borders. The

The administration addressed issues brought up about the granting of citizenship to migrants during a recent meeting with the United Nations Human Rights Committee (UNHRC).

In a detailed submission on corrections to factual errors and comments regarding concluding remarks emanating from the consideration and review of Guyana’s third periodic report under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the government explained that Guyanese citizenship is conferred automatically on children born overseas to Guyanese parents.

This, it noted, is stipulated in the country’s constitution.

According to the current legislative framework, those who fall within this group can receive a Guyanese birth certificate from the General Register Office by simply following the prescribed process, which entails presenting their birth certificate which was issued abroad along with their parents’ Guyanese birth certificates.

process of sending refugees or asylum seekers who are those persons attempting to flee conflict, danger, threats, etc., back to their home country or to another, where they may face harsh punishment, is known as refoulement, according to the Cambridge Dictionary. International law prohibits refoulement.

Considering the above, the government expressed: “It is regrettable that all the efforts of Guyana regarding migrants from Venezuela appear to have gone unnoticed.”

The Government of Guyana has stated that it is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for those requiring humanitarian aid, while simultaneously pushing for increased recognition and understanding of its contributions on the international scene. Guyana is committed to upholding human rights principles and protecting the rights of all people, including migrants.

During a Multi-Agency Coordinating Committee meeting last month to address the influx of migrants from Venezuela into Guyana, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, underscored that the long-term objective is to integrate them into the Guyanese society. But in the meantime, 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.

The government’s estimate of registered migrants who had entered Guyana from Venezuela was more than 21,000, the majority of whom are either Guyanese or of Guyanese parentage.

Venezuela, a Spanish-speaking nation and Guyana’s eastern neighbour is currently experiencing economic and political crises which have resulted in more than 7.5 million people leaving the country since 2010.

The situation has worsened under the presidency of Nicolás Maduro.

Large-scale emigration from that nation resulted from those crises, which are characterised by hyperinflation, rising rates of illness, starvation, violence, and mortality.

‘Men on Mission’ distributes kites in Region Two

Police Force to be renamed – Minister Benn

IN keeping with the modernisation plans for Guyana’s security sector, a comprehensive reform is currently underway, starting with the renaming of the Guyana Police Force.

Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, while addressing the recent Regional Security System (RSS) Council of Ministers Meeting, disclosed that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) will soon be known as the Guyana Police Service.

The name change aims to portray a better image of the organisation and government members said it will benefit all Guyanese and according to Minister Benn, work is being done to ensure there is a smooth transition.

“We are looking at reforming the Guyana Police Force into a Police Service. Our commissioner and staff have been diligently working on establishing a police academy, complete with buildings and training facilities,” Minister Benn remarked.

He reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to becoming a leader and a significant

resource for the Caribbean within the RSS framework.

He addressed the need for improved leadership, particularly at the middle level, highlighting the importance of training, integrity, and professionalism within the force. Benn also discussed the potential benefits of exchanging personnel with other jurisdictions to enhance knowledge sharing and training methodologies.

As such, he also underscored the importance of identifying strengths and weaknesses to facilitate targeted improvements and emphasised the significance of continuous training and exemplary leadership to elevate the overall integrity and professionalism of the police service.

The Police Force is divided into seven policing divisions with various branches, each commanded by divisional or branch commanders who report to the Commissioner of Police.

The objectives of the force, as outlined in the Police Act, include the preservation of law and order, peace, the repression

been approved to acquire additional vehicles, motorcycles, boats, and engines to boost response capabilities of the GPF and $5 billion for the rehabilitation of police stations. Additionally, 300 body cameras will be procured for police ranks.

of $5.4 billion, is currently underway.

In 2013, the APNU+AFC voted against the second reading of a bill intended to change name of the Guyana Police Force to the Guyana Police Service.

No one from the APNU opposition spoke on the Police (Change of name) Bill 2013 and the People’s Progressive Party-government lost the vote 27 to 29 when the votes were tallied.

The name change was long proposed within successive police reform recommendations over the years. Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson

of internal disturbances, protection of property, apprehension of offenders, enforcement of laws, and prevention and detection of crime.

The recent modernisation efforts have seen the establishment of a Community Relations Department to strengthen police-community relations, promote safe communities, and enhance preventative policing strategies through positive engagements and public trust.

This year, $30.3 billion has been allocated to GPF. Of this sum, $1 billion has

This investment has led to the advancement of works in various key areas, including command centres, criminal investigation departments, and living quarters for police personnel in several regions. Also, construction of a state-of-theart twelve-storey Brickdam Police Station, with a budget

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…CARIFTA Games 2024

4x400m mixed relay gold, Harvey’s bronze increase

GUYANA’s medal tally at the 51st CARIFTA Games in Grenada moved to five after the mixed 4x400m relay team won gold, and Attoya Harvey got bronze in the 3000m on Sunday evening.

On Saturday, Guyana won three gold medals, compliments of Malachi Austin, Tianna Springer, and Athaleyha Hinckson.

The relay team, comprising Austin, Narissa McPherson, Dh Neilson Gill, and Springer, stormed to a blistering time of 3:23.51 seconds.

Grenada (3:29.19s) and Trinidad and Tobago (3:31.24s) completed the podium spots.

Meanwhile, Harvey (10:36.59s) was behind Jamaicans Ashara Fraser (10:24.83s) and Kayden Johnson (10:04.44s).

Earlier, she ran a conservative 800m and sealed a

Guyana’s

spot in today’s U-20 800m final after she clocked 2:14.02s for an automatic qualification spot in third place.

Hinckson’s dream of a sprint double is alive today after she blazed into the final with an impressive time of 24.05 seconds, also qualifying for the World Athletics U-20 Championships.

However, teammate Kenetha Fraser clocked 25.88s to finish sixth in her heat and could not progress.

In the U-17 boys, Skylar Charles sneaked into the final with a time of 22.31 seconds and will run out of lane two, as teammate Ezekiel Millington (22.94s) did not qualify.

U-20 400m gold medalists Malachi Austin (21.60s) and Tianna Springer (24.06s) will also have a chance to add to their tally after reaching the 200m final.

However, their U-20

tally

teammates Jaheel Cornette (21.96s) and Nalicia Glenn (24.70s) did not progress.

More so, Kaidon Persaud enters today’s Boys U-17 800m as the man to beat after he produced a clinical run of 1:59.81 seconds to be the fastest qualifier to the final of his favoured event.

Javon Roberts (1:55.64s) will compete in the U-20 800m final despite a nagging knee injury. In 2023, Roberts copped the U-17 800m gold, and his time on Saturday edged out fellow Guyanese Jamol Sullivan (1:55.73s) for the fastest non-automatic qualifier.

Additionally, Alkila Blucher’s time of 2:20.45s saw her finish fourth in the U-17 800m heats and qualify for today’s final. However, teammate Marissa Thomas was seventh (2:37.81s) in her heat and did not progress.

JAMAICA showcased their sprinting prowess at the Carifta Games in Grenada on Sunday night, securing victory in three out of four 4x100m relay events. Their bid for a clean sweep was foiled by Trinidad

saw Jamaica dominate the competition. The team composed of Nyron Wade, Malike Nugent, Byron Walker, and Oshane Jervis stormed to victory in 41.30 seconds, claiming the gold medal. Trinidad and Tobago finished closely

Bahamas secured the bronze in 45.40.

However, Jamaica’s quest for a clean sweep was thwarted in the Under 20 Boys 4x100m relay by Trinidad and Tobago. Jamaica’s team, hampered by poor exchanges

The Jamaican Under 20 Boys 4 x 100 relay bid for a clean sweep was foiled by T&T

and Tobago in the Under 20 Boys 4x100m relay, adding excitement to an electrifying evening of track and field.

In the U17 Girls 4x100m relay, Team Jamaica surged to victory with a stellar performance. The quartet blazed across the finish line in 45.36 seconds, clinching the gold medal. Team Bahamas secured the silver with a time of 46.28 seconds, while Team Trinidad and Tobago took the bronze with a time of 47.49 seconds.

The U17 Boys 4x100m

behind, securing the silver with a time of 41.53 seconds, while Bahamas grabbed the bronze in a time of 42.30.

Continuing their sprinting dominance, Jamaica triumphed in the Under 20 Girls 4x100m relay. The team of Habiba Harris, Theianna-Lee Terrelonge, Briana Campbell, and Shanoya Douglas delivered a sensational performance, clocking a time of 43.63 seconds to clinch the gold medal. Trinidad and Tobago settled for silver with a time of 44.43 seconds, while

fell short of the top spot, finishing with a time of 40.55 seconds, earning them the silver medal. Trinidad and Tobago claimed victory in 40.45 seconds, while Grenada “A” secured the bronze in 40.71.

Despite missing out on a sweep, Jamaica’s dominant performance in three out of four 4x100m relay events underscored their sprinting prowess and left a lasting impression on the Carifta Games in Grenada.

Manchester City 0-0 Arsenal: ‘Stern and steely Gunners not going away in Premier League title race’

ARSENAL are almost a year on from the start of the collapse that cost them dearly in last season’s Premier League title race so all vital signs will be placed under the fiercest scrutiny as they face the same pressures again.

The ultimate test remains a visit to Manchester City, who forced Arsenal to crack under the strain of relentless pressure last year, flaws exposed cruelly in a 4-1 thrashing at Etihad Stadium that proved a defining moment of the campaign.

So here they were again, returning to the scene of that misery, the Gunners attempting to prove their credentials and improvement in an environment where they have drawn one and lost eight since their last win in January 2015.

And, amid a truly dreadful goalless game that flouted its pre-match billing as a potential classic, Mikel Arteta’s side did at least prove they are made of sterner stuff than last season. They are not going away this term.

Man City and Arsenal draw to hand Liverpool advantage

What this result means in the wider context will be discussed later but this performance and result was an illustration of Arsenal’s direction of travel.

Under manager Arteta they have won a reputation as a fluent, pleasing on the eye side whose attractive approach has enabled them to stand comfortably alongside City and Liverpool.

Here, however, the Gunners showed steel and, on occasion, even a streak of ruthless cynicism to come away with a point. And it left Arteta a happy man.

Arsenal’s “they shall not pass” approach was helped by

the leniency of referee Anthony Taylor, who showed a remarkable reluctance to produce yellow cards, which led to frustration for City and their supporters - exactly what the away side will have wanted.

And whereas in the past the Gunners have looked flaky and vulnerable, there was superb organisation, a fiercely well-drilled approach and a willingness to throw bodies in front of everything when the need arose.

Goalkeeper David Raya had a remarkably untroubled game, only pulled out of his comfort zone with an early save from Nathan Ake’s header.

The Gunners crowded City everywhere. The arch-creators Kevin de Bruyne, Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva were given no room to create anything for Erling Haaland, who roamed the margins without influence.

It is a long time since City were so impotent at home, un-

able to lay a glove on Arsenal in the areas that mattered.

The visitors’ defence was outstanding, from Ben White on the right flank to William Saliba and Gabriel in the middle. They met every challenge, their two clean sheets against City this season making them only the fourth team to shut out a Pep Guardiola side twice in the same league campaign.

It was also the first time Guardiola’s side have failed to score in a Premier League game at home since a 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace in October 2021, a sequence stretching back 47 matches. It even ended a run of 75 consecutive City league games without any being goalless.

Arteta told BBC Sport: “We made another big step today. They have the capacity to change formations to get you deep in many moments.

“I think we had the best situations. We were really aggressive at times and getting the ball into great areas. They are very physical but I think we coped with that very well. It was a really tough test. We wanted to win but when you cannot win you must not lose.”

One of the contributing factors to Arsenal’s demise last season was an injury to outstanding

defender Saliba, who showed against City just how vital he is to their cause.

Captain Martin Odegaard said: “Any team in the world would miss this guy. You see the quality he has on and off the ball, so I’m glad he is fit now. Brilliant player. Brilliant performance today.”

For all Arsenal’s understandable delight, the real winners were Liverpool, who have a two-point advantage at the top of the Premier League after beating Brighton at Anfield earlier then having the luxury of watching their closest rivals take points off each other.

The downside of Arsenal’s display was their lack of threat, with only six shots in the game, their lowest in a league fixture since November 2021, when they had five against Liverpool at Anfield.

Arteta’s side might have got more had they risked more, so there can be no clear answer yet to the question of whether this was one battling point gained or two points lost to conservatism.

What is certain is that this was another demonstration that Arsenal are better equipped to deal with the rigours of a title race than they were 12 months ago.(BBC Sport)

Kamindu Mendis’ 92* drags Sri Lanka to 531

DINESH Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis joined the trio of half-centurions from day one as Sri Lanka batted out nearly the entirety of the second day in Chattogram to rack up an imposing first-innings total of 531, and put themselves in a commanding position in the second Test.

In the process, they also posted the highest total in a Test innings without a single century, surpassing India’s effort of 524 for 9 declared against New Zealand in 1976.

Kamindu Mendis, who was unbeaten on 92, also equalled Javed Miandad for the most runs in the first four innings of the career with 419.

Bangladesh, who had to bat a little over an hour before stumps, negotiated it quite comfortably for the most part with openers Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Zakir Hasan scoring freely.

They would have gone wicketless too if not for an absolute peach from Lahiru Kumara that seamed back sharply from outside off to scythe through Joy and clip the bails.

Zakir Hasan and night watcher Taijul Islam saw things through without further damage as Bangladesh ended the day on 55 for 1 in 15 overs.

(Scores: Sri Lanka 531

(Kusal Mendis 93, Kamindu Mendis 92*, Karunaratne 86, Shakib 3-110) lead Bangladesh 55 for 1 (Zakir 28*, Kumara 1-4) by 476 runs)

The story of the day though was about the Sri Lanka batters. It took Bangladesh 159 overs to bowl out the visitors, roughly an hour into the final session. Shakib Al Hasan ended with figures of 3 for 110, along with two for debutant Hasan Mahmud and one apiece for Khaled Ahmed and Mehidy Hasan Miraz.

Overall, though, it was a tough day in the field for the hosts, particularly with their profligacy in the field once more coming to the fore. They dropped two more catches, making it five for the innings, as Prabath Jayasuriya and Kamindu became the latest beneficiaries.

Jayasuriya, who was on

6 at the time, flashed at a wide one from Khaled and got a thick edge. It flew to first slip, who bobbled it up towards second slip, who continued the juggling before third slip also sprung forward and failed to hold on. It was a sequence that summed up Bangladesh’s time in the field.

That it came during Bangladesh’s most menacing period of the day - post lunch - was also further evidence of how such lapses served to snuff out any momentum that might have been building. In this instance, with Khaled having just trapped Dhananjaya de Silva lbw, another wicket could have set them on their way to bundling out Sri Lanka’s tail cheaply.

But as things would pan out, Jayasuriya ended up sticking around for another 66 deliveries, contributing

28 in a 65-run stand with Kamindu. Kamindu himself was dropped later on - on 60 - by a sprinting Mahmud on the square-leg boundary. He scored another 32 after the reprieve.

In total, Kamindu added 120 alongside the last four batters, a majority of which could have been mitigated had Bangladesh held on to their catches.

For most of the day, the Bangladesh bowlers did not stick to set lines and lengths. And even when they did, all it took was one shot of aggression by the Sri Lanka batters to disrupt their plans.

And when a plan did work, such as when Khaled and Mahmud were peppering the batters with a barrage of bouncers, the lack of a third seamer allied with the hot and humid conditions meant it could not be persevered for any significant length of time.

With the pitch still offering uneven bounce and the odd one gripping and turning, Sri Lanka never pressed too hard to up the rate of scoring - even when it might have been prudent to do so - and were happy to bat out time until their bowlers could use the new ball towards the close of play.

A plan which seemed to have been justified in the end due to Kumara’s late breakthrough. (Cricinfo)

Pant hits half-century as Delhi Capitals beat Chennai Super Kings

RISHABH Pant’s first half-century since returning from a 14-month injury absence helped Delhi Capitals beat Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League.

Wicketkeeper-batter Pant hit 51 from 32 balls and David Warner made 52 from 35 as Delhi posted 191-5 in Visakhapatnam.

It was Delhi captain Pant’s third game back since being in a serious car accident in December 2022.

Mukesh Kumar then took 3-21 as Chennai could only reach 171-6 in reply.

After beginning the season with successive wins, the result means defending champions Chennai suffered their first defeat, while 2020 runners-up Delhi picked up their first win.

Pant, who scored 18 and 28 in his first two IPL matches this season, walked off to a standing ovation after he was dismissed by Matheesha Pathirana.

It was the 26-year-old’s first IPL half-century since 2021, with his career having been disrupted by the accident in which he suffered head, back and leg injuries, requiring surgery.

“[I] took my time initially because I haven’t played much cricket, but I kept believing I could change the match,” Pant said.

Pathirana was the pick of Chennai’s bowlers, taking 3-31. Ajinkya Rahane top-scored for them with 45 from 30 balls and former skipper MS Dhoni added an unbeaten 37 from 16.

Titans beat Sunrisers fora second win

In Sunday’s first game, Gujarat Titans beat Sunrisers Hyderabad by seven wickets for their second victory of the season.

Sai Sudharsan top-scored with 45, David Miller hit an unbeaten 44 and captain Shubman Gill added 36 as Gujarat chased down their target of 163 with five balls to spare in Ahmedabad.

Mohit Sharma earlier took 3-25 as Hyderabad were restricted to 162-8 from their 20 overs.

“Winning two matches at home is great, two more to go and then we go on the road,” said Gill.

“Credit to the bowlers to restrict them. Everyone knows their roles in terms of batting or bowling. Miller’s got into form too.”

Hyderabad, the 2016 champions, have lost two of their opening three matches.(BBC Sport)

Babar Azam back as Pakistan’s white-ball captain

... Shaheen Afridi’s one-series stint as Pakistan T20I captain has ended

BABAR AZAM has been appointed captain of the Pakistan side in whiteball cricket, the PCB announced on Sunday.

As reported by ESPNcricinfo a few days ago, the announcement means Shaheen Shah Afridi’s one-series stint as T20I captain comes to an end.

“Following unanimous recommendation from the PCB’s selection committee, Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi has appointed Babar Azam as white-ball (ODI and T20I) captain of the

Pakistan men’s cricket team,” the PCB posted on X.

Babar had reluctantly stepped down as captain after the PCB made clear they wanted to name a replacement in November, which led to Afridi’s appointment. At the time, Afridi was the hot favourite to take over as ODI captain, too, though subsequent events meant those prospects receded.

For Babar, this is unlikely to be seen as anything other than vindication

after the manner of his ouster following Pakistan’s indifferent World Cup. Former PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf had presented his decision to remove Babar as fait accompli, leading Babar to put out his statement of resignation. That, a mere four months and one white-ball series later, the PCB found itself turning back to Babar places him in a significant position of strength.

The majority of the four newly appointed members to the selection panel were

understood to be in favour in reinstating Babar, though he did have certain preconditions before he accepted the captaincy once more. In discussions with the PCB, he wanted guarantees he would not be removed again on a whim following the T20I World Cup in June, asking for a longer stint at the helm. In addition, ESPNcricinfo understands he has asked for much greater control in matters of selection than he believed he previously had.

The PCB’s brief dalli-

ance with Afridi is unlikely to have done his morale much good. The writing was on the wall for him since Naqvi refused to back him at a press conference in Lahore on Sunday, saying at the time a final decision would be made after Pakistan’s training camp with the military ended. But it appears there has been a rapid loss of faith in Afridi’s leadership abilities when he led Pakistan in one series and his PSL franchise Lahore Qalandars.

Babar’s first assign -

Babar Azam

ment since his reappointment is a five-match T20I home series against New Zealand next month. (Cricinfo)

Guyana edge France in Indoor Hockey Masters World Cup Masters Semi-final

… to meet England in the Final today

GUYANA Men’s Masters

Indoor Hockey team continues to impress on their maiden sojourn at the Indoor masters Over- 45 men’s World Cup with a 3-2 win over powerhouse France in the semi- finals of the competition played in Nottingham England.

Guyana coming off comfortable wins over Canada, Wales and England had to face the challenge of France in the semi-final yesterday.

In the clash, Alan Fernandes showed his worth as he found the back of the net in the 16th minute of the second period with a field goal to give them the 1-0 lead.

Guyanese skipper Jerazeno Bell, who has been the most prolific player for his team in their campaign with two helmet-tricks (four goals), did not relent in the semi-final stage as he converted two superb penalty corners to extend their lead

to 3-nil going into the break.

The second half saw the resurgence of France as they came out more determined. French master player Damien Declercq would prove the hero for France a he took a successful penalty stroke before converting a penalty corner to put the French men on the score sheet with two goals.

Guyana needed to park the bus and that is exactly

what they did to hold on to the slander lead 3-2 for the victory to book their place in the finals today against England.

Earlier in the pool round, Guyana defeated host England 7-4 along with wins over Canada 10-2 and Wales 6-5.

The Guyana Masters team is sponsored by Rock Hard Distributors Inc, the wholesale suppliers of Rock Hard Cement.

Scorer Alan Fernandes

Semi-final round of Guinness

‘Greatest of the Streets’ decided

TWO-time defending champions

Gold is Money will oppose Laing Avenue, while North East La Penitence will battle North Ruimveldt in the semi-final round of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Georgetown Championship, following quarterfinal wins on Saturday evening at the National Park tarmac, Thomas Lands.

Gold is Money overcame Albouystown Warriors by a 2-1 score, compliments of a ‘Guinness Goal’ [a goal scored in the final three minutes of normal time counts as two] in the 39th minute by Shemar Koulen. On the other hand, Laing Avenue downed the Lodge All-Stars 2-0. Bevney Marks recorded a double in the rout.

Meanwhile, North East La Penitence bested Back Circle 3-1. The trio

of Colwyn Moore, Akil Plass, and Kelvin Moore were on target. Also, North Ruimveldt downed Unstoppable 2-1.

The losing quarterfinalists will face off in the plate section. Lodge will oppose the Albouystown Warriors, while Back Circle will battle Unstoppable. Over $1,500,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded.

Complete Results

Quarterfinal Results

Game-1

Lodge-0 vs Laing Avenue-2

Game-2

North Ruimveldt-2 vs Unstoppable-1

Game-3

Gold is Money-2 vs Albouystown Warriors-1

Game-4

North East La Penitence-3 vs Back Circle-1

Plate Semifinal

Game-1

Lodge vs Albouystown Warriors: 19:00 hours

Game-2

Unstoppable vs Back Circle: 19:30 hours

Semifinal

Game-1

Gold is Money vs Laing Avenue: 20:00 hours

Game-2

North East vs North Ruimveldt: 20:30 hours

Plate Final Winner vs Winner: 21:30 hours

3rd Place

Loser vs Loser: 22:00 hours

Final Winner vs Winner: 22:30 hours

USA-based

USA-based Guyanese Ravi Lutchman, owner of JIS&L, NY and another friend (name withheld as per request) have donated the sums of $50 000 and $40 000 respectively towards “Project Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana, the joint initiative of Kishan Das of the USA and Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) executive Anil Beharry.

Lutchman, who’s making his first contribution, is a softball legend, having represented several teams internationally, while his friend is on board for the second time.

Both are pleased with the work of the initiative and promised further assistance. Members of the initiative expressed thanks to the donors, pointing out that the monies will be used to purchase gear upon request. Once again, the project calls on corporate Guyana, private businesses and individuals to help to keep our youths off the streets through sports. Village leaders are also asked to mobilise the youths and get them actively involved in sports, thus keeping them away from drugs and crime.

US-based Guyanese Ravi

“There has been a recent surge in teenage criminals and let’s work together to eliminate this from our society,” said a statement from this joint initiative.

Total cricket-related items received/purchased so far: $460 000 in cash; 13 coloured cricket uniforms; two trophies; 20 pairs of cricket shoes; 33 pairs of batting pads; 35 cricket bats; 30 pairs of batting gloves; 25 thigh pads; three pairs of wicket-keeping pads; six arm guards; two chest guards; two boxes; 11 cricket bags; six bat rubbers; six helmets; one softball cricket bat and 13 boxes of white balls.

To date, 72 young players from all three counties of Guyana have benefitted from eight gear bags; two trophies; four arm guards; 31 bats; three boxes; six helmets; 27 pairs of cricket shoes; 18 pairs of batting pads; 24 thigh pads; one bat rubber; 31 pairs of batting gloves and three pairs of wicket-keeping gloves.

Many other youths have benefitted indirectly too. In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area received two used bats. Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenaam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard also collected one box of red cricket balls each; Cold Fusion Cricket Club, 13 coloured uniforms while RHCCCC received three boxes of balls; 15 white cricket shirts; one pair of junior batting pads; one pair of wicket-keeping gloves and a set of stumps and bails.

Other beneficiaries are The Essequibo Cricket Board, the Town of Lethem and youth coach, Travis Persaud, softball teams in the Upper Corentyne area, No.65 Young Titans, Just Try CC, Wakenaam Cricket Academy, National fast bowler Shamar Joseph, Nehemiah Hohenkirk, Shamar Apple and the Leguan Cricket Committee, Essequibo.

Cricket-related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the country and club leaders also assist to identify talent.

Progressive and well-managed cricket clubs, with a youth programme, will also benefit.

Anyone interested in contributing can contact Anil Beharry on 623 6875 or Kishan Das on 1 718664 0896.