Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 09-11-2021 by Guyana Chronicle

TUESDAY 9th November, 2021

No. 106540

Thousands of jobs to be created -in Region Six through short and long-term projects, says Senior Finance Minister

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Kingston Seawall to become major tourist hub

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Works are currently ongoing at the Kingston Seawall to develop the area into one of the city’s major tourist hubs. The redevelopment of this once thriving commercial and cultural centre forms part of the First Lady’s National Beautification Project (Office of the First Lady photo)

Hard work and determination Manufacturing sector were key factors for success ‘booms’ in first half of 2021 SEE PAGE

-Region Six top CSEC performers

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‘Lookout’ man gets 21 Former SOCU Head turns years for role in Diamond self in, placed on $300K businesswoman’s death bail over fraud allegation SEE PAGE

$346 million primary school for Amelia’s Ward/Bamia

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Kingston Seawall to become major tourist hub

The recently built wheelchair ramp and slipper drain on the periphery of the bandstand AS Guyana observes Tourism Awareness Month, works are currently ongoing at the Kingston Seawall to develop that area into one of the city’s major tourist hubs. The redevelopment of this once thriving commercial and cultural centre forms part of the First Lady’s National Beautification Project. It is being executed in partnership with the Ministry of Public Works and corporate sponsors. What was intended to be a moderate facelift of the bandstand area has now become an elaborate plan to boost tourism in the capital city, a release said. “As we continue to welcome investors and tourists to our beautiful Guyana, it is very important for the physical appearance of the country to complement the investment climate,” First Lady Arya Ali has said. Mrs. Ali shared that it is critical for Guyana to capital-

ise on the social and economic opportunities which come from having an influx of foreigners. Equally important, she said, was ensuring that Guyana protects its environmental credentials. “This is why I pursued this project and made it part of my National Beautification Project; because these kinds of initiatives must have environmental considerations, and must fall within the sustainable development framework,” the First Lady noted. The National Beautification Project aims to safeguard and enhance the scenic qualities of Guyana’s roadways, and urban and rural spaces, while simultaneously creating a more environmentallyfriendly society. Presently, reinforced concrete drains are being built opposite the bandstand to expand the landspace for the construction of food kiosks. Twenty-five units are expected to be erected in the coming months; 13 of them by

a corporate sponsor, and the remaining 12 by the Ministry of Public Works. Not only would this help to create employment, but it would also assist in the regulation and monitoring of vending in and around the area, the release said. To eliminate the existing issue of flooding, slipper and sub-surface drains are under construction on the periphery of the bandstand to improve drainage, while rehabilitative works will be done to restore the bandstand to its pristine state. The recently-included boardwalk north of the bandstand will be extended to the ‘roundhouse’ behind the Pegasus Hotel, while the tarmac area will be fully resurfaced with asphalt. Accessing the tarmac area will no longer be a worry for persons in wheelchairs, since a ramp is currently under construction. Both design and funding for a sanitary block have been approved by a corporate spon-

The area (right) where the food kiosks will be constructed after completion of the reinforced concrete drains sor. The facility will be built adjacent to the food kiosks, and a promenade will extend to the ‘I Love Guyana’ sign. The entire area, the release said, will also benefit from improved security, with the inclusion of a police outpost, patrol officers, and increased lighting. Thirty new garbage bins will also be installed around the area to improve

solid waste management. A commitment has also been made by one of the country’s leading telecommunications companies to provide free WiFi within the vicinity of the bandstand and tarmac. Prior to the completion of this project in the first quarter of next year, it is the First Lady’s intention to engage the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to have

live cultural performances return to the bandstand. “I hope that upon completion of this very ambitious project, we value and take pride in what is ours. I want everyone to benefit from this undertaking; and they must do so, conscious of the work that went into making it possible,” the First Lady said.

An artist’s impression of what the tarmac will look like when completed

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Thousands of jobs to be created in Region Six -through short and long-term projects, says Senior Finance Minister

By Nafeeza Yahya SENIOR MINISTER in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, said government will invest in several long-term projects that will significantly transform Region Six. He was at the time addressing members of the Upper Corentyne Chamber of Commerce at the City Inn Hotel in Line Path, Corriverton, on Sunday. Dr. Singh, while fielding questions, noted that there are several short-term solutions that will be implemented that will see relief to the residents, such as the fixing/ patching of the potholes on the Corentyne Highway as well as construction of new housing schemes. He, however, stated that there are other projects that are being looked at such as the Corentyne River Bridge, the upgrading of the Corentyne Highway, building of Port Berbice, and the upgrading of the health facilities that will have a massive impact on the local economy and ulti-

mately the lives of the Region Six residents. “In addition to the very short-term intervention we are dealing with to address issues that require immediate attention, like fixing the highway or fixing the hydrant or developing new housing schemes etc., we are also looking down the road and are taking steps already to invest in a number of initiatives that will see a significant transformation in Region Six, in particular, and some I’ve mentioned already -- the Corentyne River Bridge -- and you can imagine what that will mean to business in Corriverton. The fact that you will have thousands of people travelling back and forth, that in itself creates and stimulates tremendous business activity,” he said. As part of the expected increase in traffic from the Corentyne River Bridge, Dr. Singh stated that options are being explored to upgrade, and, where possible, widen the main thoroughfare from New Amsterdam to Corriverton. He however cautioned that this would not happen

overnight but did promise to fix the several existing potholes that commuters have to dodge as they drive along the roadways. In fact, the minister assured that his staff had already sent the list of areas to be fixed to the Ministry of Public Works and action will be taken soon to have them fixed. JOB CREATION Another major project identified by the senior minister is a deep water harbour at the mouth of the Berbice River that will see thousands of jobs being created. “We are already actively working on the development of port Berbice at the mouth of the Berbice River. That is indeed a major development, because when you have a major port constructed there, that will immediately lift and directly create probably 1,000 jobs, but, if you think about it, all the services that come into port operation will also immediately create business opportunities for contractors and sub-contractors and I don’t only mean construction contractors but contractors providing goods to support

the operation of a major port at the mouth of the Berbice River.” Further, Dr. Singh stated that options were being explored to improve the state of health delivery in the region which has been in the limelight for the wrong reasons. “We are looking at the investments that are needed to improve social services as well, in particular the hospitals. We are well aware of the shortcomings of the hospitals. I know you would have had some challenges with the public health care facilities in the region. The region has also been in the news, not in a positive light, regarding some incidents at the New Amsterdam Hospital which are absolutely tragic. So we recognise that the public health care facilities are in need of significant upgrade and I can tell you we are actively looking at options for either a major upgrade or construction of a new medical facility in Region Six which will deliver good, quality and efficient health care, not just the construction of the facility but also addressing

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh service quality issues such as staffing and management of the centre etc. because we want people to be able to access good and quality health care. These things matter to the people.” Directly targeting youths, the Senior Minister explained that attention will be placed on ICT to bring jobs to the region and to

scale up technical and vocational training. D r. S i n g h a n d h i s team engaged the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development, The Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce and The Upper Corentyne Chambers of Commerce, on Sunday, during a two-day visit to the region.

Manufacturing sector ‘booms’ in first half of 2021

PRODUCTION within Guyana’s manufacturing sector remained positive throughout the first half of 2021, recording an increase in output of 13.1 per cent, according to the Bank of Guyana. This performance, based on statistics from the Central Bank’s mid-year report, is a significant improvement, considering that the sector contracted by 0.2 per cent at the end of the corresponding period last year. “This out-turn reflected a 23.1 per cent rise in output of ‘other’ manufacturing, and 3.1 per cent increase in rice manufacturing, which together offset the decline of 17.2 per cent in the valueadded of sugar. “Other manufacturing industries registered increases in the categories of alcoholic beverages by 48.0 per cent; paints by 34.3 per cent; Malta by 20.3 per cent; liquid pharmaceuticals by 10.4 per cent; nonalcoholic beverages by 9.4 per cent; and electricity

by 3.8 per cent, as economic activity thrived due to the reopening of the economy,” the Bank related. While there is not always a direct relationship between an increase in output and an increase in exports, statistics from the Bank of Guyana show that total earnings from all “other exports”, commonly referred to as nontraditional exports, amounted to US$102.4 million, 14.4 per cent more than the value recorded during the same period last year. This improvement, according to the Central Bank, was primarily on account of higher receipts in the subcategories of rum and other spirits, beverages, diamonds, re-exports and wood products by US8.7 million, US$8.2 million, US$5.1 million, US$4.9 million, and US$0.1 million respectively. When consolidated, total export receipts increased by 63.6 per cent, or US$786.9 million to over US$2 billion, compared to the US$1.2 bil-

-records 13.1 per cent increase in output -returns from non-traditional exports grow by 14.4 per cent

(Photo courtesy of Leadership News) lion earned during the corresponding period last year. Owing to the performance in the first half of the year, the Bank of Guyana is optimistic that the high level of growth achieved will be sustained in the second half. “This out-turn is expected, on account of higher output of oil, coupled with improved performance in all other sectors, as the economy continues to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic. Notwithstanding, the end of year inflation rate is expected to remain at a low single-digit level, as supply shortfalls following the May/June floods are reversed,” the Central Bank has reported. REBOUND The Guyanese economy continued to rebound during the first half of 2021 from

the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, moderate rate of vaccination, fiscal stimulus, structural reforms, accommodating monetary and financial forbearance policies, as well as higher commodity prices from international trade, according to the BOG. As reported, real oil Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 14.5 per cent, while non-oil GDP grew by 4.8 per cent. Improved performances were recorded in the construction, petroleum and gas, and support services, manufacturing and the service sectors, while the agriculture sector recorded reduced output, due to unprecedented floods during the months of May and June. This aside, the external position remained sustainable from high exports and foreign inflows. The fiscal position

continued to benefit from increased economic activities and trade with growth in domestic revenues, as budgeted social services and capital expenditure expanded. Overall, the Guyanese economy recorded positive growth during the first half of 2021 from heightened activities in almost all of the major sectors. Earlier this year, Senior Finance Minister Dr. Singh had said that Guyana would be one of the fastest growing economies in terms of real GDP, and would see rapid transformation in a number of sectors, especially since the government would make efforts to boost the non-oil economy as well. “We’re anticipating a rapid expansion in the services sector, including transport and logistics, construction of infrastructure, including

roads, bridges, office buildings in the private sector, etc, along with expansion in other services such as financial services, all of which will contribute to rapid expansion in real output,” Dr. Singh said. “So, you’re going to see Guyana being one of the fastest growing economies in real GDP terms, globally in the hemisphere, and certainly in the Caribbean… A lot of the real GDP growth in the region will be driven by Guyana,” he added. The favourable economic performance at the end of the first half of 2021 in the non-oil economy bodes well for the upcoming second half of 2021 and beyond. It is expected that advances in key investments, both in the public and the private sector, will buttress the second-half performance of the economy.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Finance Ministry exposes Jordon’s “brazen misrepresentation” of fiscal matters

Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh A “repetition of falsehoods” is the term used by the Ministry of Finance to describe recent utterances by former Finance Minister, Winston Jordan,

in relation to a number of fiscal matters. In a missive issued last evening, the ministry responded to Jordan’s claims, point by point. Firstly, it

was clarified that contrary to Jordan’s statements, it is common for senior officers within the Ministry of Finance to sign loan requests sent to various organisations or bilateral partners. Jordan was quoted in a November 8th Kaieteur News article as saying that he was “astonished that a senior ministry official signed a loan request letter sent to the Chinese Ambassador. “While the finance minister is the only authority empowered to sign loan agreements, it is routine practice for senior technical staff of the Ministry of Finance to communicate with donors and development partners throughout the project cycle, including at the earliest stages of mobilising resources to fund projects,” the ministry’s statement noted. It also admitted that indeed, the Head of the ministry’s Project Cycle Man-

agement Division, which is charged with responsibility for resource mobilisation, “has always been the lead government interlocutor with development partners and has been engaged in communication with development partners on issues of resource mobilisation for many, many years.” Even further, the ministry issued copies of similar loan request letters signed by the same ministry official during Jordan’s tenure as finance minister. “For Mr. Jordan to insinuate that there is something irregular about this, is a clear indication that he is either woefully unfamiliar with a well-established practice that continued under his tenure, or that he is aware of this practice but would still dishonestly seek to insinuate that something is irregular about it, in an obvious attempt to mislead those who

Former Finance Minister under the former APNU+AFC Government, Winston Jordan don’t know otherwise,” the ministry said. NATURAL RESOURCES FUND The ministry also responded to statements made by Jordan which “attempted to give the impression” that the former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Government crafted a “superlative Natural Resources Fund (NRF)”. In a November 8th letter published in the Stabroek News, Jordan said that “the NRF Act was the product

of extensive national and international consultations.” However, this was disputed by the Finance Ministry, headed by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh. The ministry pointed to the fact that Jordan, in his letter, “conveniently omitted to disclose that that NRF Act was rushed through the National Assembly” even after the then government lost a No-Confidence Motion (NCM) in December 2018, t Turn to page 5

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Finance Ministry exposes Jordon’s...

From page 4 hereby losing its mandate to govern. “In total disregard for the clear consequences that are constitutionally due to flow from a NCM, Jordan’s government rushed, in January 2019, to sneak the NRF Bill through Parliament with no Opposition participation and no Opposition input. Here again, his letter is replete with brazen misrepresentations,” the ministry posited. It also pointed to the fact that just recently the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) issued a publication titled “Economic Institutions for a Resilient Caribbean” which highlighted that the objectives and design of Guyana’s NRF raise several issues. “The fund on its own cannot achieve the objectives that have been set for it. The rigid withdrawal rules may do little to foster stabilisation or saving but may entail fiscal costs,” the report noted. It also outlined that the formula for the maximum permissible withdrawal is among the most complex operational rules for a resource fund in the world. “Its design departs from good practices,” the IDB argued.

The report noted too that the “state-of-the-art advice based on international experience and good fiscal management principles emphasises simplicity, flexibility, transparency, and close integration with the budget and public asset-liability management,” and that the rule’s complexity may also “conspire against fiscal transparency and public understanding”. The Finance Ministry is adamant that the “irrefutable fact of the matter is that the NRF Act in its current formulation was a piece of legislation which was very poorly conceived, and was ‘rammed down the throats’ of the nation during a period when the APNU+AFC was in a state of illegality and illegitimacy.” BURGEONING OVERDRAFT The ministry was also keen to respond to Jordan’s statements relating to a “burgeoning overdraft of the consolidated fund”. It contended that it is a matter of public record that under Jordan’s tenure, the former government ignored the advice of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as well as the ministry’s technical staff, and “refused to address the rapid accumulation of the

overdraft”. The Finance Ministry’s press release indicated that under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government, the overdraft was “regularised” and securitised with appropriate debt instruments, and putting in place arrangements to ensure that the fiscal operations of government are adequately financed without recourse to re-accumulation of the overdraft. “Despite this publicly known fact, Jordan soldiers on, continuing to repeat yet another falsehood,” the Finance Ministry lamented. THE SIGNING BONUS REVISITED The ministry also called out Jordan for presiding over the “illegal diversion of the US$18 million signing bonus from the Consolidated Fund” and into a “secret bank account”. The ministry said that according to the law, the bonus was supposed to have been deposited into the Consolidated Fund. “He [Jordan] is yet to state publicly under what law and by what legal authority that amount was diverted from the Consolidated Fund and secretly stashed away to finance unknown ac-

tivities, bypassing the budgetary and appropriation process,” the ministry said. It noted too that “even more astonishingly, Jordan famously denied any knowledge of the existence of the signing bonus, long after his own ministry had requested in writing the opening of a special bank account to receive the funds”. The Finance Ministry’s statement also accused Jordan of displaying a behavioural pattern of attempting to mislead the nation. “It would be recalled that at one of his first sittings in Parliament in 2015, he attempted to mislead the nation by quoting incorrect debt numbers, a matter on which, after he was challenged on the accuracy of his statements, he would subsequently reluctantly apologise to the Assembly for the misinformation he was caught peddling redhandedly and for creating an erroneous impression,” the statement reminded. It surmised that Jordan’s public pronouncements “provide ample illustration that, contrary to his often-repeated self-proclamation as a professional, Winston Jordan has no hesitation to distort facts in order to mislead the nation”.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Crop Diversification

SUGAR and rice have always been the backbone of the agricultural sector, even though the former has seen its contribution to the economy decline progressively over the past decade. Part of the difficulty faced by sugar had been the precipitate decline in the price of sugar following the removal of European Union’s (EU) subsidy on sugar under the Lome Agreement. Rice production has since been on the uptick, especially since the PPP/C assumed office on October 1992. The price of rice on the world market has seen some fluctuations from time to time, but farmers persisted and today rice production has seen record levels of production. More lands were opened up for rice

cultivation which, coupled with better husbandry practices and higheryielding varieties, have raised rice production and productivity to new levels. Only recently, construction works have commenced on two all-weather roads at Nos. 58 and 52 Villages on the Upper Corentyne, which when completed will see a significant increase in rice production. The 25-kilometre road will go all the way from No. 58 Village to the Canje Creek. This will open up thousands of acres of virgin lands. A similar road will be built from No. 52 Village to the Canje Creek which, taken together, will open up over 50,000 acres of land for agricultural purposes. These are indeed transformational infrastructural

projects which will impact in a big way on agricultural output not only in Region Six, but throughout the country as a whole. The PPP/C administration is going beyond rice and sugar. The government is now preparing the ground for a new line of crops, namely, soya beans and corn, which was successfully piloted and hold out great promise for further expansion. This development, apart from providing inputs to the stockfeed industry, could also be a valuable source of foreign-exchange earnings and job creation. According to Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, harvesting is proceeding well and even though it is still on a trial run, the initial results showed that Guyana has the potential not only

to cater for local industry needs, but also for overseas markets. The production of soya beans and corn is the brainchild of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who indicated his interest in making the country self-sufficient in protein for the poultry industry. This initiative has to be seen within the broader framework of reducing the foodimport bill within CARICOM, which stands at over U.S.$ 5B annually. Guyana alone currently spends approximately U.S.$25M annually on protein for the poultry industry. Guyana has the potential to capitalise on this huge food-import market in CARICOM, and with Guyana now playing a lead role in terms of agricultural development

in the Region, the stage is set for a regional response to a food solution which could reduce dependency on imported food items to satisfy regional needs. Guyana, with its vast agricultural lands, fertile soil, fresh water and fishing potential could very well be the breadbasket of the Caribbean. The PPP/C administration must be commended for making agriculture a national priority and for broadening the range of agricultural products beyond the traditional areas of sugar and rice. This is indeed forward thinking by the administration and a sure way of avoiding the risk of the Dutch disease often associated with de-emphasising of agriculture in favour of oil.

Guyanese-endorsed candidates win NY elections

Dear Editor,

CANDIDATES, including the Mayor-elect, endorsed by, funded, and supported by Guyanese, won their seats in elections held last Tuesday in New York City. Several of these candidates were endorsed by the New York-based Guyana Democracy Project (NYGDP), led by President Dr. Tara Singh. The group lobbied and campaigned for and defended democratic elections held for Mayor, Boro Presidents, Judgeships, City Council (51 seats), and a number of other citywide offices. NYGDP specifically endorsed Eric Adams for Mayor, Donovan Richards for Queens Boro President, and Karen Gopee for Judge, among other candidates. The

NYGDP says it is enthused that the candidates it endorsed have won. In its message, the NYGDP stated: “We are so proud of your victory. It is a strong affirmation of the peoples’ faith in you. The Guyanese community worked very closely with your campaign. There were many volunteers and so many donated to the campaign to help ensure a victory. Each one of you is well deserving of the position. We appreciate your hard work and commitment to public service, your commitment and dedication and the voters richly rewarded you. Each one of you campaigned in the Guyanese and Indo-Caribbean community in Queens, Brooklyn, and elsewhere and they came out and voted for you to help ensure a victory.”

The elections were historic with so many minorities, including several Guyanese, Indians and Africans, and people of colour seeking elective offices. Several were elected. For the position of Mayor, Eric Adams is only the second African American to win the office. The Guyanese community was strongly behind Adams who campaigned in Little Guyana, Richmond Hill and Queens among Guyanese, winning their support. Adams raised a significant amount of money in Queens for his campaign. Mayor-elect Adams is a yoga enthusiast and vegetarian, that he credits for turning around his health issues. He is a former police officer. In the Greater Richmond Hill area, in District 32 for City Coun-

cil seat, a Republican candidate Joann Ariola endorsed by Guyanese handily defeated Democrat, Felicia Singh. Ariola defeated Singh by a margin of more than two to one – 67 per cent to 31 per cent with an independent candidate receiving the rest of the votes. A fundraiser was organised for Ariola by Guyanese Romeo Hitlall, who also served as Ariola’s campaign co-chair. Hitlall said he is extremely pleased with the outcome, promising that Ariola would represent all of her constituents of District 32. A happy and excited Hitlall, one of the leading figures in the Guyanese community in business and cultural promotion, said he has pledged his support to make Ariola a very effective representative and to

provide the best service to constituents. Hitlall is very active on Guyanese-American issues and matters pertaining to Guyana. The Guyanese New York community looks forward to working with each of them as they set to carry out the promises they made during the campaign, especially as it relates to Diwali as a public holiday and including Guyanese among their staff. Several Guyanese organisations have committed to working with the winners to achieve their goals and eagerly look forward to see Guyanese appointees among their staff. Yours sincerely, Dr. Vishnu Bisram

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Marine Corps celebrates 246th Anniversary

US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch on Saturday hosted a small gathering at her residence in honour of the 246th birthday of the US Marine Corps. According to a release, the US Marine Security Guards marked the occasion, with Ambassador Lynch as the Guest of Honour and Guest Speaker. The ambassador reportedly read a greeting from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in which he thanked the Marines for their long-standing service and sacrifice for their nation. In keeping with the tradition of the ceremonial participation of the oldest Marine, Retired Colonel Brian Chin, who hails from right here in Georgetown, was also in attendance.

According to the release, for more than 200 years, Marines have been engaged with American diplomacy. “US Marines have been detailed as a security force escorting diplomatic personnel; they have defended and rescued personnel at American embassies and consulates around the globe, safeguarding the commitment of the United States to the quest for peace and freedom worldwide. The connection to Guyana is strong; Guyanese- American servicemen and women travel to Guyana by the hundreds every year to visit family. Their dedication to service and security is a testament to the bond that exists between our two nations,” it said.

Hetmyer’s grit and determination give hope Dear Editor,

to him. What I saw from HetIT pained to watch West myer in that game is what Indies during this year’s Windies cricket has been ICC Men’s T20 World lacking: players who play C u p . H o w e v e r, a s I the game knowing that an watched Shimron Hetmy- entire nation is behind them er bat in the game versus and not from the standpoint Sri Lanka, I saw a grit and of them being bigger than determination that have the game. been lost from Windies My only hope is that cricket for about a decade. what we witnessed from Take nothing away from Hetmyer in this game is Nicolas Pooran’s effort, but the ushering in of a new with wickets continuing to brand of Windies cricket, fall around him, Hetmyer even as we say good bye assumed a never-give-up and thank you to the likes attitude. This was evident in of champion Dwayne Braevery shot played. He was vo and others. determined to win the game. It was physically evident Yours sincerely, just how much it mattered Clayon F. Halley

Ambassador Lynch and her husband, Dr. Kevin Healey with members of the Marine Corps at the anniversary celebration on Saturday

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

‘Lookout’ man gets 21 years for role in Diamond businesswoman’s death By Clestine Juan

Colin Grant

EIGHT years after businesswoman Sirmattie Ramnaress was killed in her Diamond, East Bank Demerara home, the “lookout” man, Colin Grant, was on Monday sentenced to 21 years imprisonment for his role in the gruesome crime. Grant, formerly of Diamond Housing Scheme, was sentenced by Justice Jo-Ann Barlow at the Demerara High Court. On October 12, he was arragined for the capital offence of murder but opted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter. He admitted that, between August 30-31, 2013, in the county of Demerara, he killed Ramnaress called “Sabo.” His co-accused, Colin Bailey, was freed last month after the prosecution disclosed that

it did not have evidence linking him to the murder. Bailey, an ex-cop, was the victim’s reputed husband. The Guyana Chronicle had reported that Ramnaress was found dead in her garage on the morning of August 31, 2013, with a stab wound and injuries to her head and body. While petrol had been thrown all over her house, it was the bond at the back of the yard that was set alight and destroyed. The woman’s body was discovered after the fire service responded to a report of a fire. Her attacker also removed the footage from surveillance cameras that were located around the house. During the sentencing hearing held on Monday, state prosecutor Sarah Martin related the facts surrounding the killing of the 46-year-old

woman. Martin told the court that a post mortem conducted by Government Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh had revealed that Ramnaress died owing to cerebral haemorrhage resulting from cranial trauma compounded by a fractured spine. She said that on November 6, 2015, a police detective acting on information went to Grant’s home and confronted him. However, he fainted when the rank put the murder allegation to him. He later regained consciousness, and the police carried out a search at the premises and found a laptop on a barrel. The laptop was later identified as Ramnaress’ property. The court was told that Grant was later taken to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters

at Eve Leary. On November 7, 2015, he was contacted by a police officer at CID and said, “Boss ah gon tell you everything I know.” He then gave the police a caution statement and revealed that his friend Paul Bascom was the mastermind behind the crime. This publication was made to understand that Bascom died during an armed confrontation with the police on December 07, 2013, at Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, following an alleged robbery. Grant in his statement claimed that Bascom gave him instructions and told him about his plans to rob Ramnaress on August 31, 2013. “The accused followed his [Bascom] instructions by joining a car driven by a man, and went to the starting of 21st Street, Diamond, and looked out for any police vehicle,” Martin said Grant further told investigators that three days after the crime, Bascom gave him a laptop and $100,000. On November 7, 2015, during another interview with the police, Grant said that he and Bascom were friends. He also admitted that Bascom was involved in criminal activities and knew Ramnaress. Two days later on November 9, Grant gave the police another statement and disclosed that in addition to the laptop and money, he was given a gold ring. Grant told the police that he gave the gold ring to his mother. “Boss meh lie duh piece. The money, the laptop and the ring is wah he give me as my share from this wuk,” Grant said under caution. Later that day, he was charged with murder. However, on November 11, 2015, Grant during another interview with the police said, “Boss the stroy wah I tell yall is not the full-out truth… I want fuh tell you something wah ah leff out.” He then gave a written caution statement claiming that he and Basom planned the crime and that he was the lookout man. WRONG FRIENDS Following the prosecution’s disclosure, Grant’s attorney Dexter Todd addressed the court. “Your honour the accused before the court is one which [sic] found himself at that time with the wrong friends,” he said. According to Todd, there is no evidence that his client played a role in inflicting any injuries on Ramnaress. “Even as the lookout person…. The accused [Grant], did not in any way contribute, support

Sirmattie Ramnaress called ‘Sabo’ or even attempt to encourage any form of violence being committed onto the deceased,” he said. In his plea of mitigation, Todd said that his client is a “prime candidate” for rehabilitation and can be reintegrated back into society. “The real perpetrators of the crime are not before the court,” he added. Grant, who is the father of one, broke down in tears while addressing the court. He pleaded with the judge for leniency. “I am very sorry… I have a daughter out there. She never got to see her father. She is seven years old. I have never been there for her. I am sorry for being with the wrong set of friends them on the road,” he said during his address. However, Justice Barlow in response said he has to take some responsibility as he was involved in the planning. “You engaged in a plan to commit a felony at the home of the deceased. Whether that plan was to rob her or kill her, it was still a plan to commit a felony and because there was that plan, you could have, if you were tried, been found guilty of murder.” According to the judge, she found that a custodial sentence is necessary, but the case did not require the maximum sentence. In delivering her sentence, the judge said that after committing of the offence, Grant remained silent for over two years and when confronted by the police with the stolen property of the businesswoman, he did not come clean and tell the whole story. She pointed out that he eventually provided additional information, which the court sees as him not immediately accepting responsibility for what had happened. The judge sentenced Grant to 21 years and further ordered that the prison deduct one-third of the sentence for his early guilty plea. The judge ordered the deduction of an additional six years for the time he had spent in pre-trial custody.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

$346 million primary school for Amelia’s Ward/Bamia

A CONTRACT valued $364 million was signed on Monday for the construction of a primary school in Amelia’s Ward/Bamia, Region 10. The contract-signing was facilitated by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development and was awarded to St8ment Investment Inc. The facility will house up to 800 pupils. Minister Nigel Dharamlall said initiatives such as these are critical within the region, as it paves the way

for development. “This area is very important in the development scope of our country because of its magnitude and because of its potential,” he noted. The school is expected to be ready for opening in 2024, the Department of Public Information (DPI) has reported. Minister Dharamlall urged the contractor to utilise labour from within the community as it will create employment for persons there. “Part of the vision of His

Excellency is to ensure that whatever resources we place into different regions, that employment creation is one of those outcomes, as well as wealth generation. So, this is not an investment in a school alone, but it is also an investment in the wider economy of Region 10.” The bids were opened by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) in July of this year, from which four companies made submissions.

Moraikobai Safari returns after pandemic hiatus

RAINFOREST Tours in collaboration with the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) conducted a successful Moraikobai safari over the weekend. Though the expedition is usually held in February, this year’s event was held from November 5-7, and saw seven off-road vehicles embarking on a drive through the wetlands. Moraikobai is one of 10 communities being supported by the GTA to develop their tourism products. “The Moraikobai sand safari allows us to further develop our adventure product. Guyana is known as an adventure, a nature-based destination and this bodes well for the product that

Moraikobai Culture group doing a dance (DPI photo) we have. Moraikobai is one of the communities that we have been supporting here at the Guyana Tourism Authority,” said Kamrul Baksh Deputy Director of the GTA.

The journey to the Region Five indigenous community takes roughly six hours by road. After the ride, visitors Turn to page 13

Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Nigel Dharamlall, addressing the contract awardees on Monday (DPI photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Hard work and determination were key factors for success

-Reg. 6 top CSEC performers say

Faria Hafiz By Nafeeza Yahya DESPITE hectic schedules, intense studying and personal challenges in the lead-up to the 2021 Carib-

Tahini Singh

Vettorrie Lathman

bean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, several Region Six students have recorded outstanding performances.

Included on the national list of 47 candidates with 12 or more Grade Ones are Faria Hafiz, of JC Chandisingh Secondary, who gained 14 Grade Ones and

three Grade Twos; Tahini Singh of Tagore Memorial High School with 14 Grade Ones; Bibi Rhea Subhan of Berbice High School, whose 19 subjects includes 13 Grade Ones and six Grade Twos; and Vettorrie Lathman of Skeldon Line Path Secondary with 12 Grade Ones and four Grade Twos. The results of the examinations were announced by the Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand on Friday morning during a ceremony held at the National Centre for Education and Research Development (NCERD) in down-town Kingston. Hafiz told the Guyana Chronicle on Monday that when she first found out about her achievement, a feeling of happiness and satisfaction engulfed her. The 17-year-old, who is a resident of Rose Hall, Corentyne, said her preparations for the examinations consisted of working around-the-clock, and adapting to new ways of studying. “My preparation consisted of watching many CXC YouTube videos by Online tutors, and I made sure to get good SBA scores. There were definitely challenges; the COVID-19 pandemic, where we weren’t in school for almost an entire school year was the main one,” she said. “The CXC tutors of YouTube were also a great help… Kerwin Springers, Adapt Tuition, Learn SKN, Jamian Hatton to name a few,” she added. She attributed her success to God; her parents; paternal uncle, Nabeel; Miss Savitri Sukhdeo; Sir Ravendra Naggah, and her best friend. The charismatic and eloquent young lady who plans to become a medical doctor, is currently a student at the University of Guyana’s Tain Campus, where she is pursuing an Associate Degree in Biology. Her advice to those who will be writing CSEC in the coming years is to be selfmotivated, and to put in the extra work on their own. “Do not depend on anyone, and always strive for only excellence,” she emphasised. Back in 2016, Hafiz

was the top performer for the Rose Hall Town Primary School at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA). Though she was awarded a place at Queen’s College, her parents opted to have her attend secondary school in the region. REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENT Meanwhile, Lathman, who is also 17 years old, has his heart set on becoming a civil engineer. He told the Guyana Chronicle that when he received his results, he was happy, but not overjoyed, as he felt he should have done better. However, after reflecting upon the academic journey, he realised that the challenges brought on by the pandemic tested his character, and helped to mould him as an individual. In light of these circumstances, he eventually concluded that his performance was truly remarkable. “Being completely honest, when I received my results, I was happy, but I wasn’t overjoyed as per say, because I expected a bit better of myself. But after giving it some thought, I realised the character I have built up and showed during this time is something that couldn’t be shown on paper, and it was then it dawned on me that I have achieved something remarkable: My results and also the person I built in the process,” he said with pride. Lathman recalled how he used various study methods in the lead-up to the examinations. “I got my hands on the various syllabi,” he said, “and ensured I gained a thorough understanding of each of its contents. I didn’t stick entirely to the traditional textbook learning; I incorporated videos and other learning aids that were available Online. I also made it mandatory that I studied each day leading up to the exams,” he added. His advice to other students is to make use of the resources that are available, and to know that they are stronger in the midst of despair, as they all possess strength beyond their perception. Moving forward, Lathman, who lives at Number

73 Village, is hoping to get a scholarship to pursue engineering studies. “I would like to become a civil engineer, so, studying will be my next major step. Hence, I am hoping for a scholarship which would make that step a bit easier,” he said. The teen told this publication that his parents, Omika Harkie and Lakram Lathman, who are both teachers, are proud of his achievements. DREAM COME TRUE Also speaking to the Guyana Chronicle was Tahini Singh, who expressed satisfaction with her performance. She said achieving such good results was always a dream of hers. “I was surprised and overwhelmed with a feeling of immense satisfaction, as this is something I have thrived to achieve since I started high school,” Singh said as she beamed with joy. When asked about the challenges she faced prior to the exams, she stressed that COVID- 19 was the biggest hurdle, as she learns best using the face-to-face method. She said that with a lot of perseverance, she was able to adapt to virtual learning, and most of the time did self-studying. Singh expressed gratitude to God, her parents, friends and teachers, especially Sir Narine and Miss Reshma for their support and encouragement every step of the way. Singh, who plans to further her studies in the field of medicine, explained that from a young age, she developed a passion for cardiology. Her ultimate goal is to become a cardiothoracic surgeon. A cardiothoracic surgeon is a medical doctor who specialises in surgical procedures of the heart, lungs, esophagus, and other organs in the chest. The teen is encouraging other students to find a study time that works best for them, to remain focused, to not procrastinate, and to utilise multiple sources to gather information, including reliable websites and textbooks. She said that in the end, hard work really does pay off.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Former SOCU Head turns self in, placed on $300K bail over alleged fraud

Sydney James FORMER head of the Spe- edly uncovered several incial Organised Crime Unit stances of mismanagement (SOCU), Sydney James, of funds and falsification of has surrendered to police documents. on Monday and was placed The audit was ordered in on $300,000 station bail. February 2019 by then ComT h e G u y a n a P o l i c e missioner of Police, Leslie Force had issued a wanted James, after $52M that was bulletin for James for ques- collected from the Public tioning in relation to obtain- Security Ministry for operaing money by false pretence tional costs was not properly and fraud. accounted for within SOCU. James was the head of James was later sent on the SOCU when, in 2019, a administrative leave and special audit was conducted had not returned to his at the agency which report- position at SOCU.

Man pleads not guilty to murder of Bush Lot couple

NAZAMEED Rafeek on Monday pleaded not guilty to the gruesome murder of West Coast Berbice businessman Doodnauth Arthur Rajkumar and his reputed wife Dianne Chamanlall. Rafeek, of Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice, appeared before Justice Sandil Kissoon at the Berbice High Court. He denied that he murdered Rajkumar, 81, and Chamanlall, also known as “Devi,” 49, at School Dam, Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice, between January 8-9, 2016. He was represented by attorney-at-law Mursaline Bacchus, while the state was represented by prosecutor Abigail Gibbs. The case comes up for hearing on Tuesday. Last year, Rafeek’s coaccused Rooplall Abrahim

Nazameed Rafeek and Madanpaul Gocoul both pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter at the same court before Justice Brassington Reynolds. Abrahim was sentenced to life imprisonment and will be eligible for parole after 25 years. Meanwhile, Gocoul was handed a 25-year sentence.

According to reports, the couple lived together in the upper flat of the two-storey building at lot 93A Middle Dam, Bush Lot. It is alleged that Rafeek and others had broken into the house through a grill door on January 9, 2016. They searched the house and packed foodstuff and cigarettes whilst

searching for money. After contact was made with the victims, they did not exercise mercy; the couple were severely chopped. Their bodies each bore over 20 deep incised injuries, severed body parts and fractures. The couple died as a result of shock and haemorrhage, due to multiple incised wounds.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Moraikobai Safari returns after pandemic... From page 9

settled into their new environment and prepared for the two days of activities. These include fishing, cultural programmes, swimming and delivering contributions to the village. Some participants shared their thoughts on the safari with the Department of Public Information (DPI). “I was always an outdoors person, I like the outdoors, I just came back to Guyana a few months ago and I was looking forward to doing this and coming out on safaris and Guyana’s outdoors to explore it. So, when I saw the ad on Facebook, I called Frank and made arrangements so I could come out and I have no regrets. It’s perfect, the trail was exactly as I wanted it to be; it wasn’t too difficult and staying in the village is just wonderful, the people are just wonderful, so it was a good experience for me,” said Jai Parasaram. Another participant, Alim Mohamed, said he enjoys being in the community and will continue to visit. “The improvement with the new guest house that they did across there is pretty impressive, they seem to be a thriving little town going here and hopefully they can attract a lot more people from the outside and keep the village going and sustained with some tourism.” “This is maybe the third time I’m coming here and it’s a wonderful experience and it could really expose lots of people to how beautiful Guyana is and how beautiful the country is and lots of people with diverse cultures,” said Ronald Tooslie, another participant. Safeena Singh also participated in the safari. “The best part of this safari is the boat ride. We had so much fun on this trip. I have no regrets coming, it was fantastic. Then the culture shows last night, it was off the hook, I have no regrets coming and I could have even brought my kid and she is only six years old,” she told DPI. Meanwhile, safarian and General Manager of Guyana Beverages Inc., Samuel Arjoon, who has visited numerous times is now hoping to collaborate with the community to support its tourism drive. “The captain and I are in discussions to see how we can collaborate, that’s Guyana Beverages with Moraikobai to help develop the tourism product,” Arjoon said. Toshao Derrick John is very optimistic about Moraikobai’s tourism. He noted that the GTA has supported the community in its tourism development, while the Government of Guyana has supported by funding the construction of the new Ubudi Lodge. “I think that Moraikobai has a good potential to drive tourism especially since Moraikobai is the only Indigenous community in Region number Five and so we would like partners to come on board to help us to be able to develop a more comprehensive package for tourism,” the toshao said. Proprietor of Rainforest Tours, Frank Singh, noted that the safari was a successful one. It is one of four facilitated by the tour company.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Guyana committed to boosting connectivity at regional, international levels

THE Government of Guyana is committed to enhancing air and maritime connectivity among Guyana, the Caribbean

Community (CARICOM) and the international community, a statement of from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and In-

ternational Cooperation said. The statement noted that Guyana was among the early signatories to the CARICOM Multilateral Air Services Agreement (MASA), which is being provisionally applied while relevant legislation is finalised for tabling. Similarly, Guyana has initiated efforts, in collaboration with CARICOM partners, towards developing a regime for incentivising private sector partnership in the establishment of an enhanced and viable regional maritime

transport network. “The government considers that enhanced connectivity will boost opportunities for trade, tourism, people-to-people and business-to-business exchanges,” the statement said. It pointed out too that the government, guided by principles of transparency and fair competition, is implementing measures

to ensure an open and fair regime in the air transport sector for local, regional, and international operators that will expand opportunities and enhance value for the Guyanese people and persons travelling to Guyana. “Guyana welcomes both new and longstanding partners in the aviation sector and looks

forward to working with all operators to ensure continuously improved services and viable and sustainable operations. In this regard, the Government of Guyana remains ever mindful of the invaluable service that LIAT has provided to the Region, including Guyana, over the years,” the statement concluded.

Ex-soldier charged with rape of child, granted bail RANDELL Williams, 30, a former member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), was on Monday charged with the rape of a child under 16 years, a statement from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has confirmed. Williams, of Paradise Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was arrested on October 2, 2021, and appeared before Magistrate Fabio Azore at the

Vigilance Magistrates’ Court to answer the charge. He was not required to plead. The police stated that Williams was placed on $150,000 cash bail and was required to hand over his passport. The police also said he must report to the Cove and John Police Station every Wednesday. The matter was adjourned until December 2, the police statement noted.

Rape accused: Randell Williams

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

CONCACAF U-20 qualifiers

Glasgow’s hat-trick inspires Guyana to 5-1 win over USVI OMARI Glasgow inspired Guyana to a 5 – 1 win over the US Virgin Islands yesterday in the Dominican Republic, in the on-going CONCACAF U-20 Championship Qualifiers. Heading into the contest, Coach Wayne Dover was optimistic that Guyana would bounce back from their opening game performance, which saw them playing to a goalless stalemate against the Cayman Islands. The team’s captain, given his experience of playing with the senior men’s National team, showed why he’s considered one of Guyana’s brightest prospects, when he opened his account in the 34th minute to give Guyana an advantage. Glasgow then extended the team’s lead in the 41st minute, and then assisted Deron Niles five minutes later to give Guyana a 3 – 0 cushion at half time. Guyana was playing with 10 men after Perry Gual was given marching orders in the 20th minute for punching a USVI player in full view of

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the fourth official. With Guyana having to resort to a more defensive posture, Neqwan Henry pulled one back for the USVI when he converted from the penalty spot in the 55th minute, following a ‘handball’ violation by a Guyanese defender inside the ‘18’. However, the USVI’s celebration was short-lived, as Glasgow, showing his superiority on the pitch, using his quickness, completed his hat-trick with a clinical finish in the 57th minute. But he wasn’t done. The Fruta Conquerors player would notch up another assist when he found Ravi Coates in a ‘give-and-go’ play that resulted in Guyana going up 5 – 1 in the 88th minute. Meanwhile, looking ahead, Glasgow will have to replicate or better yesterday’s performance against Nicaragua tomorrow, especially since the Central Americans had opened their campaign with a 7 – 0 win over the USVI. Following his side’s vic-

tory over the USVI, Coach Dover said the win puts Guyana in a position to compete against Nicaragua for a chance to advance to the Championship round. “Im really happy that the players came out and fought a good fight to get this three points with some goals also,” Dover said. Following the conclusion of the Qualifiers, a total of 20 teams will participate at the CONCACAF Men’s Under-20 Championship in the summer of 2022. This will include the top four teams from the Qualifiers and the region’s top 16 ranked teams (based on the CONCACAF Men’s Under-20 Rankings) who receive a bye to the Championship. The 2022 CONCACAF Men’s Under-20 Championship will qualify its semi-finalists (four teams) to the FIFA Men’s U-20 World Cup Indonesia 2023 and its finalists (two teams) to the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games. (Rawle Toney)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Depleted LA Lakers beaten for fifth time this season THE Los Angeles Lakers fell to their fifth defeat of the season, losing 105-90 to the Portland Trail Blazers. The depleted Lakers, who were without star player LeBron James because of an abdominal strain, lost Anthony Davis after just seven minutes with illness. The Blazers led by 34 points at one stage with Damian Lillard top-scoring with 25 points. Lakers coach Frank Vogel said Davis did not have Covid-19 and had "woken up with a bit of a stomach

bug". "He came back in and said his thumb felt pretty good, good enough to play, then he went and threw up in the back," he said. "He still wanted to give it a go, but by the time tip-off came around he had already thrown up four times. He wanted to see if getting out on the floor would change it, but wasn't able to go." Elswhere, Tyler Herro and Jimmy Butler starred as the Miami Heat held on to defeat the Utah Jazz 118-115 to record their sixth win in

seven games. Herro scored 29 points while Butler added 27. Kyle Lowry also scored 20 as part of a triple-double for the Heat. Donovan Mitchell starred for the Jazz, finishing the game with 37 points, but defeat saw their threegame winning streak come to an end. Elsewhere, the Denver Nuggets edged the Houston Rockets 95-94, with Aaron Gordon sinking back-toback three-pointers in the final two minutes.

Damian Lillard top-scored with 25 points in the Portland Trail Blazers' victory over the Los Angeles Lakers

The Phoenix Suns overturned a 12-point deficit in the fourth quarter to beat the Atlanta Hawks 121-117, with the Suns' Devin Booker finishing the game with 38 points. Luka Doncic scored a match-winning three-pointer on the buzzer as he finished with a gamehigh 33 points to help the Dallas Mavericks defeat the Boston Celtics 107104. Joel Embiid scored 30 points as the Philadelphia 76ers beat the Chicago Bulls 114-105. (BBC Sport)

Australia to tour Pakistan for first time in 24 years AUSTRALIA will tour Pakistan for the first time in 24 years in March and

April 2022. The tour will include three Test matches, three

one-day internationals and one T20 international, taking place in Karachi,

Pakistan toured Australia in 2019, losing both the Test and T20 series

Rawalpindi and Lahore. The announcement comes just days before the two countries meet in Dubai in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup. "I am delighted to welcome Australia to Pakistan," said Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ramiz Raja. "From a personal point of view, it pleases me no end that we'll be engaged in a three-Test match series. "Australia are one of the high-performing sides and them playing in our backyard for the first time after a gap of 24 years will be a special treat for the fans. "Likewise, it will be a great opportunity for the Australia cricketers to not only play at our iconic venues but also feel and enjoy the respect, love and hospitality that this great country offers, something which most of their previous generation of cricketers missed out by playing offshore." Australia last toured

Pakistan in 1998, when current Australia head coach Justin Langer was part of the Test squad. News of the 2022 tour comes just two months after New Zealand abandoned their tour of Pakistan following a government "security alert", before England withdrew their men's and women's teams from series in Pakistan that were due to take place in October. "Cricket Australia is excited about the prospect of touring Pakistan next year for what will be a highly anticipated series in a country so incredibly passionate about the game and their national team," said Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley."Pakistan is a formidable opposition with an exceptionally talented team, as evidenced by their dynamic performances in the current ICC Men's T20 World Cup in the UAE. "We thank the PCB for their considerable efforts in planning for the tour and

look forward to continuing to work closely over the coming months to finalise the necessary operations, logistics, security and Covid-19 protocols. "The safety and welfare of our players and staff remains our number one priority, and we will continue to work with the PCB and relevant agencies to ensure that appropriate and sufficient arrangements are put in place for the tour. (BBC Sport) Qantas Tour of Pakistan 2022 March 3-7: First Test, Karachi March 12-16: Second Test, Rawalpindi March 21-25: Third Test, Lahore March 29: First ODI, Lahore March 31: Second ODI, Lahore April 2: Third ODI, Lahore April 5: Only T20, Lahore

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

India are 'drained' and 'need rest', says coach Ravi Shastri INDIA coach Ravi Shastri said his players are “physically and mentally drained” as the pre-tournament favourites ended their disappointing T20 World Cup campaign with a nine-wicket consolation win over Namibia. India chased 133 with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul both making half-centuries. Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin took 3-16 and 3-20 in Namibia’s 132-8. India were unable to reach the semis after defeats to Pakistan and New Zealand in their first two games. The tournament rounded off a jam-packed 11 months for India that has seen a historic Test victory in Australia, eight Tests against England, the World Test Championship final against New Zealand and white-ball series against England and Sri Lanka. Their players have spent almost six months in bubbles after arriving in England in early June before the Indian Premier League (IPL) was completed in the United Arab Emirates between September 19 and October 15. Their first game World Cup game was then on October 24. Shastri, who will now be replaced by Rahul Dravid after five years in the job, said: “The players need rest now. “I am mentally drained, but I expect that at my age, but these guys are physically

2019 50-over World Cup and the second-placed finish in the World Test Championship, meaning India’s last success in an ICC event was the 2013 Champions Trophy. Despite that, Shastri said his India side will be known as “one of the great teams in the history of the game” and this early exit “takes nothing away from a great side”.

India's Jasprit Bumrah (left) celebrates with teammates after taking the wicket of Namibia's Michael van Lingen (not pictured) during the ICC Men's Twenty20 World Cup cricket match between India and Namibia at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai on November 8, 2021. (Photo by Aamir QURESHI/AFP)

and mentally drained. “They have spent six months in the bubble and we would have ideally liked a bigger gap between the IPL and the World Cup. “It is when the big games come and the pressure hits you, you are not as switched on as you should be. “It is not an excuse because we take defeat – we’re not scared of losing. In trying to win you will lose games, but here we didn’t try to win because the x-factor was missing.” A rest is unlikely to come anytime soon with India playing three Twenty20s and two Tests against New

Zealand from November 17 before series against South Africa, West Indies and Sri Lanka – which total five Tests, six ODIs and 10 T20s – before the middle of the March. New Zealand’s win over Afghanistan on Sunday had secured their progression to the last four and knocked India out. India’s opening two defeats left them needing to win all three of their remaining games, which they managed in ruthless fashion, but they also needed other results to go their way. The group-stage exit follows a semi-final exit in the

Djokovic wins a record sixth Paris Masters title WORLD number one Novak Djokovic completed a terrific week by setting two more records in winning the Paris Masters on Sunday. Djokovic beat defending champion Daniil Medvedev 4-6 6-3 6-3 to win a record sixth Paris title and 37th Masters 1000 crown, moving clear of Rafael Nadal. Russia's Medvedev, 25, broke Djokovic's serve twice as he took the first set.

But the Serb, who will end the year as number one for a record seventh time, eased through the final two sets. Loose games from Medvedev, who denied the Serb a calendar Grand Slam in September at the US Open, handed Djokovic two crucial breaks in the deciding set. Both Djokovic and Medvedev will play the season-ending ATP Tour Finals

in Turin, starting on 14 November, where Medvedev will attempt to retain his title. Elsewhere, Great Britain's Alfie Hewett won the singles title at the season-ending Wheelchair Masters in Orlando. The 23-year-old beat Gustavo Fernandez of Argentina in three sets in the final, having won the doubles title with Gordon Reid on Saturday. (BBC Sport)

Patandin’s half-century spurs... (From page 22) ed 53 for the second wicket, but Majestic wrested control soon after. Foo struck four fours and two sixes from 28 balls in his 39, while Wilson hit a solitary four off of 38 balls in his 31. Patandin, who bowled

Foo, also took the wicket of skipper Yutesh Dhanpaul (0), but it was Karamchand Ramnarine, who did the bulk of the damage. He got the wickets of Wilson, Akshaya Persaud (12), Hardeep Singh (4) and Pooran Harrichan (2), which

left Phoenix CC reeling. Although Francis Mendonca scored 23 from 13 balls (2X6s) and Mark Tyrell added 12 not out, Phoenix were restricted to 132-8 when their overs ended -- 22 runs short of victory.

The game was Virat Kohli’s last as India captain in the format, with the 33-year-old hinting that Rohit will take over during his interview at the toss. One of Rohit’s first jobs will be deciding the makeup and personnel of his team going forward with Ashwin impressing after coming into the side for the three wins.

Rohit was at his belligerent best, hitting seven fours and two sixes in his 37-ball 56 that broke the back of the chase for India. KL Rahul, who finished unbeaten on 54, and Suryakumar Yadav, who made 25 not out, then shared an unbroken 50 to see India home with 30 balls to spare. (BBC Sport)

Alvarez beats Plant in Las Vegas to create boxing history

Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez poses with all four of his belts

SAUL 'Canelo' Alvarez made history in Las Vegas by beating Caleb Plant to become the first undisputed world super-middleweight champion. The 31-year-old knocked out Plant in the 11th round to unify all four major belts in fewer than 12 months. Mexican Alvarez added Plant's IBF belt to the WBA Super, WBC and WBO ones he already held. He knocked the American down twice in the 11th - first with a left hook and then followed it with a right uppercut. Although Plant got up, the punches had taken their toll and Alvarez went on the attack again to finish the fight with one minute and five seconds of the round remaining. Alvarez said Plant, 29, wanted to keep going but he told him he should stop. "He wanted to continue. I told him there is no shame.

Of course I came out on top," said Alvarez, who had the support of the Las Vegas crowd as he improved to 57 wins, one defeat and two draws, with 39 knockouts, as he handed Plant the first defeat of his career. "Caleb is a good fighter. He was a difficult opponent with a lot of ability and I do respect him. "He was making the fight pretty difficult, but Eddy [Reynoso, trainer] told me to just stick to the gameplan in the last two rounds. In the end, I got him. That's the way it had to finish. He was already hurt and I went for the kill." Alvarez had won just about every round leading up to the 11th but Plant proved to be an awkward opponent as he weathered the storm but without causing the Mexican, who was warned for a low blow in the fifth round, too many problems. By the 10th round,

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday November 9, 2021)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Sri Lanka (8 times) (2) 26 games Today’s Quiz: (1) Who is the first Australian player to cop the Man of the Match Award at the Men’s T20 World Cup 2021? (2) Which teams have each played four Men’s T20 World Cup semi-final games to date? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Plant's jab had disappeared and he couldn't get through the Alvarez defence The win for Alvarez means he becomes the first Mexican and only the sixth fighter since the WBO began sanctioning world-title fights in 1988 to hold all four belts from the separate governing bodies at the same time. He had claimed the WBA Super and WBC titles when he defeated Callum Smith in December 2020 and followed that up with a defence against Avni Yildirim in February before overcoming Billy Joe Saunders for the WBO honour. "It hasn't been easy to get to this point," Alvarez added. "With my team I have gone really far. "This is for everybody, especially for Mexico. We did it tonight. We are only six. It keeps me happy and motivated to be one of the six undisputed fighters in the world." (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Pollard calls for second T20 tournament to aid player development ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (CMC) – Captain Kieron Pollard has urged young West Indies players to think bigger than the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and believes the region needs another Twenty20 tournament in order to properly develop the next generation. Speaking in the wake of the Caribbean side’s failed campaign at the ongoing Twenty20 World Cup on Saturday, Pollard stressed the value of raising performance standards and said playing in other global T20 tournaments allowed players to further enhance their skills. “For me personally, [I would] just tell them (young players) that CPL is not the be-all and end-all. There’s a lot of higher, better, sort of cricket around the world. And as individuals, we need to lift our standards and not settle and be contented,” Pollard said. “My message would be: we have to work harder and we need to put a lot of thought in what we do, and again, be disciplined in what we do. “I think we have a mindset at times to be contented but as I said, coming to CPL, dominating CPL is not the beall and end-all. You need to come and try to dominate on the world stage and the world stage is at World Cups … IPL franchises, where all the best players around the world gather as one. “There’s a lot of work to be done. We are not lacking for talent but the work needs to start now and we need to be honest and upfront about it, and we need to challenge ourselves.” West Indies arrived at the tournament as reigning champions but saw their title

West Indies’ Kieron Pollard (right) plays a shot during the ICC men’s Twenty20 World Cup cricket match between Australia and West Indies at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

defence fall flat, losing four of their five games to finish fifth of six teams in Group 1 on two points. The major source of grief for the Caribbean side was their lethargic batting which resulted in a near historic low of 55 in their opening game against England, and inadequate totals throughout. Pointing to the CPL – the Caribbean’s premier domestic T20 franchise tournament – Pollard said the showpiece was “recycling” the same players each year and discussions needed to take place among stakeholders on establishing another competition aimed at unveiling new talent. “For the last ten years or so, we have had, again, sort of the same guys playing T20 and sort of dominating as we go along,” he contended. “One of the things that for us that we need to do, especially in the Caribbean, is we need to have another tournament other than CPL, whereas we can unearth new talents. “When we had the Caribbean T20, that was an opportunity for people to bring new talents from different parts of the Caribbean and we are able to have a sort of nucleus for

this last generation also. “But since CPL has come in, yes, it’s a franchise-base system, but we have only the opportunity to sort of recycle the same players over and over and over again.” He continued: “So it’s something we need to look at but there are some cricketers and a lot of young cricketers looking forward to playing and contributing to West Indies cricket. “It’s something for me personally I’m excited about and it’s the end of a generation but there’s a lot of conversations that need to take place of how you’re going to make a transformation from the club cricket, or even CPL into international cricket because there’s a big step up. “I think in between there, what we need is another tournament. If you look around the world, there are different tournaments and different teams playing so you can convert talent.” The CPL bowled off in the 2013 replacing the Cricket West Indies-run Caribbean T20 and has emerged as one of the most popular franchise competitions on the T20 circuit.

Patandin’s half-century spurs Majestic CC to T20 Cup title FORMER national U-19 cricketer Chris Patandin blasted a half-century to lead Majestic Cricket Club to the New York National Cricket League (NYNCL) Cricket Zone T20 Cup against fellow pro-Guyanese side, Phoenix Cricket Club. Majestic won the toss against the strong Phoenix side, which included several seasoned Guyanese cricketers, and opted to take first strike at Baisley Pond. Former Berbice Inter-county cricketer, Derick Narine, who captained Ma-

Chris Patandin was adjudged Man-of-theMatch in the final

jestic, began to construct the innings with Patandin, but he was routed for 11 by national cricketer, Chandrapaul Hemraj, at the start of the third over. Wasim Haslim, a former Demerara cricketer then played a few shots for his 23 (2X4s, 2X6s from 12 balls), but the bulk of the batting was on the shoulders of Patandin. The opener, who struck five fours and three sixes from his 55-ball 70 runs, also ran well between the wickets. Number four batsman, Nadesh Basdeo (21 from 15 balls)

was the only other batsman to reach double figures, but he became the first victim of Hardeep Singh. Singh walked through the middle order to finish with 4-27 from four overs, while Mark Tyrell supported with 2-30, while Hemraj and Jonathan Foo took one wicket each. Needing 154 for victory, Phoenix lost Hemraj for 1, bowled by Haslim in the first over. Foo and former US U19 cricketer Randall Wilson add(Turn to page 21)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 9, 2021

Dottin century fires West Indies to easy win in ODI opener KARACHI, Pakistan, (CMC) – Dashing opener Deandra Dottin stroked a career-best second OneDay International hundred but first in four years as West Indies Women whipped Pakistan Women by 45 runs to snatch the lead in their threematch series here Monday. Sent in at the National Stadium, West Indies piled up 253 for eight off their 50 overs with the 30-year-old Deandra Dottin goes on the attack Dottin carving out a during her 132 against Pakistan on splendid 132 off 146 Monday. deliveries, with 18 just bat on to get a higher fours and a couple of sixes. total on the board for the F e l l o w B a r b a d i a n team,” Dottin said afterall-rounder, Hayley Mat- wards. thews, chipped in with a Dottin handed West Inbreezy 57 and then returned dies a cavalier start, domito take three for 31 with her nating a 44-run stand with off-spin as Pakistan Women Rashada Williams who made were held to 208 for nine in a patient 15 from 40 deliverreply. ies with three fours, before Aliya Riaz, batting at being bowled in the 12th number six, top-scored with over by left-arm spinner 46, while Iram Javed pro- Anam Amin who claimed duced a 34-ball cameo 40, five for 35. and Muneeba Ali a busy 28. Kyshona Knight lasted “To be honest, when I two balls before retiring got to the half-century it was hurt in the next over without just to start fresh again and scoring but captain Stafanie

Taylor (6) joined Dottin to extend the second wicket partnership to 28. Taylor, who missed West Indies’ last series against South Africa, faced 11 deliveries before falling to a catch at the wicket off another left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu in the 18th over, paving the way for an entertaining 119-run, third wicket stand betwee Dottin and Matthews. The right-handed Dottin reached her half-century off 55 balls at the start of the 19th over from seamer Aliya Riaz and then produced a measured effort to reach triple figures off 124 deliveries in the 40th over with a couple off Nashra Sandhu. Matthews, who hit an unbeaten hundred against Pakistan Women in the Caribbean earlier this year, struck eight fours off 67 balls before perishing in the 42nd over, becoming Anam Amin’s second wicket. Dottin added a further 44 for the fourth with Shemaine Campbelle (23) before

finally departing in the 47th over, lbw to Anam Amin, triggering a slide at the death where four wickets tumbled for 18 runs. New ball seamer Shakera Selman (2-35) then struck twice to reduce Pakistan Women to 51 for three in the 13th over but Iram Javed

counter-attacked in a 57-run fourth wicket stand with Kainat Imtiaz who made 24. Iram Javed belted half-dozen fours in a sparkling knock while Kainat was without a boundary in 60 balls but Matthews accounted for both, forcing Pakistan Women to rebuild

through Aliya Riaz and captain Sidra Nawaz (23) in a 43-run, sixth wicket partnership. By the time Sidra Nawaz fell in the 41st, the required run rate had risen to ten runs per over and the hosts found difficulty in coping.

SCOREBOARD WEST INDIES D Dottin lbw b Anam Amin 132 R Williams b Anam Amin 15 Kyshona Knight c & b Fatima Sana 3 *S Taylor c wkp Sidra Nawaz b Nashra Sandhu 6 H Matthews c Nashra Sandhu b Anam Am in 57 +S Campbelle b Anam Amin 23 Kycia Knight c Muneeba Ali b Anam Amin 6 Q Joseph c Nashra Sandhu b Fatima Sana 3 S Connell not out 0 Extras (b1, lb1, w6) 8 TOTAL (9 wkts, 50 overs) 253 Did not bat: S Selman, A Mohammed Fall of wickets: 1-44, 2-72, 3-191, 4-235, 5-243, 6-247, 7-253, 8-253. Bowling: Fatima Sana 10-1-65-2, Anam Amin 10-2-35-5, Sadia Iqbal 10-0-45-0, Nashra Sandhu 10-1-43-1, Aliya Riaz 3-022-0, Kainat Imtiaz 7-0-41-0.

PAKISTAN Muneeba Ali c Taylor b Mohammed 28 Sidra Ameen c Taylor b Selman 2 Ayesha Zafar lbw b Selman 17 Kainat Imtiaz c Connell b Matthews 24 Iram Javed c & b Matthews 40 Aliya Riaz run out 46 *+Sidra Nawaz c Mohammed b Joseph 23 Fatima Sana b Matthews 3 Nashra Sandhu not out 11 Sadia Iqbal run out 2 Anam Amin not out 3 Extras (lb1, w8) 9 TOTAL (9 wkts, 50 overs) 208 Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-37, 3-51, 4-108, 5-121, 6-164, 7-176, 8-198, 9-202. Bowling: Connell 9-0-35-0, Selman 10-035-2, Mohammed 10-0-44-1, Joseph 10-052-1, Matthews 10-1-31-3, Taylor 1-0-10-0. Player-of-the-Match: Deandra Dottin.

Windies unfazed by qualification Banton, Bennett enjoy cup glory challenge for next year’s World Cup LONDON, (CMC) – Striker appointed” at going out in the DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, (CMC) – West Indies have missed out on automatic spot in next year’s Twenty20 World Cup following their abysmal showing at the ongoing showpiece but captain Kieron Pollard said the Caribbean side were not fazed by the prospect of having to go through a qualifying tournament. The deposed champions finished fifth in Group 1 on two points after losing four of their five matches, slumping to 10th in the International Cricket Council rankings. The top eight nations – the winner and runner-up of the ongoing T20 World Cup along with the next six highest-ranked sides – qualify directly for the Super 12 group stage for next year’s tournament in Australia. Obviously we have to place a lot of emphasis on that. There’s nothing much we can do about it now,” Pollard said following West Indies’ eight-wicket defeat to Australia on Saturday. “I think that journey [to

qualification] would not have started just at this World Cup, this journey would’ve started before in terms of getting points accumulated to get to this stage. “It is what it is. We have to live with that. A couple years ago we had to qualify for the 50-over World Cup as well and the guys went and they did it so whoever is in the positions now in terms of personnel to do that, we have no choice but to do it. “So we’ve got to rebuild, we’ve got to start over and that’s what it is.” A cut-off date of November 15 had been set for the qualification process, meaning West Indies will remain outside the top eight by the end of the ongoing tournament while Australia, England, India, Pakistan, New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan and Bangladesh all secure automatic qualification. Sri Lanka, who finished fourth in Group 1, lie ninth in the rankings and will join Namibia and Scotland in go-

ing through qualification, in order to return to the Super 12s next year. Pollard, who took over the reins of the white-ball side two years ago, said it was now important West Indies overhauled their strategic approach to the shortest format. “We have to look at the way we play T20 cricket. Again obviously, our team was set up for our power-hitters to do a lot of the damage but we weren’t able to do that,” the 34-year-old conceded. “What we have seen especially in these conditions, is that one guy in that top four try to bat as long as possible and when you get in, you try to stay in for as a long as possible, because it’s hard for guys to come in and try to hit. “So that’s one of the things that going forward, we need to do better. “But for us, the good thing is that you start building from the ground so we have to start from the foundation now and that’s just the reality of the situation.”

Zane Banton, who holds dual British and Jamaican citizenship, was on target in a 3-2 victory as sixth-tier part-timers St Albans City stunned English League Two leaders Forest Green Rovers by knocking them out of the FA Cup before a 4,000 capacity crowd at Clarence Park on Sunday. Matty Stevens put the visitors in front from close range with his 10th goal of the season after 18 minutes, but goals from Mitchell Weiss and the impressive 25-year-old Banton – a carpenter by day – in the space of less than four minutes saw St Albans take a shock first-half lead, Banton coolly finishing low under goalkeeper Luke McGhee from 12 yards out on 29 minutes. Jack Aitchison levelled in first-half stoppage time, but the Saints, who lie second in National League South and also counted a postman, an engineer and a personal shopper among their squad, impressed after the break and Shaun Jeffers got a deserved winner on 78 minutes – his 18th goal of

Elliott Bennett celebrates his goal for Shrewsbury Town on Sunday.

the season. Rovers, who made six changes from the side that drew 1-1 at Bradford City in the league last week, were without their Jamaican captain, Jamille Matt, scorer of eight goals this season, because of a calf niggle, and afterwards head coach Rob Edwards admitted he was “bitterly dis-

first round of the cup. Elliott Bennett, who qualifies to play for Jamaica through his paternal grandparents, also enjoyed cup success, scoring in the 62nd minute as League One side Shrewsbury survived an early scare as they came back to beat seventh-tier Stratford Town, the lowest-ranked side left in the competition, 5-1. Bennett, 32, arrowed a free-kick from the left-hand edge of the box into the top corner to put the tie to bed for the Shrews, who had to overcome a late blow in the build-up to the game when goalkeeper Marko Marosi and centre-half Matthew Pennington withdrew from the squad after testing positive for COVID-19. Bermuda striker Justin Donawa will have another shot at cup glory after he helped National League side Solihull Moors secure a replay following a 0-0 draw at League One leaders Wigan Athletic on a bitterly cold afternoon in the northwest on Saturday.

STRIKE FORCE! (L-R) – Omari Glasgow, Deron Niles and Ravi Coates scored in Guyana’s 5 – 1 win over the USVI at the CONCACAF U-20 Championship Qualifiers in the Dominican Republic.

Mouth-watering fixtures set to bowl off PM Softball Cup

…Over one million dollars in prize money up for grabs

At yesterday’s draw, Georgetown Softball League president, Ian John, is at extreme left (back row)

CONCACAF U-20 qualifiers

Glasgow’s hat-trick inspires Guyana to 5-1 win over USVI PAGE

Ajhodhia Lall elected new NECC president

Newly elected members of the NECC, President Ajodhia Lall, is seated at centre

AFTER an absence of almost six years, the North Essequibo Cricket Committee (NECC) finally held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday last at the Anna Regina Fire Station Building. When the ballots were cast for the President, Ajhodia Lall emerged the victor gaining eleven votes as against his challenger, Haiman Beharry, who received four votes.

It was the only position that had two challengers as the other posts were unanimous: Vice President – Elroy Stephney, Secretary – Haiman Beharry, Treasurer – Loaknauth Bhagwandin and Assistant Secretary/Treasurer – Christopher Collins. Nine Committee members were also elected. At the Committee’s first statutory meeting, the Public

Relations Officer (PRO) and the Organising Secretary will be appointed. Eight of the ten registered clubs participated. Cricket Ombudsman Mr. Malcom Peters was present to verify the clubs while representatives from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) sat as observers. Former Chairman Prince Holder did not seek re-election.

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OVER one million dollars in prize money and other incentives will be up for grabs when the fifth edition of the Prime Minister Softball Cup bowls off on Friday at various venues around the city. The tournament culminates on Sunday at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. At yesterday’s draw, held at Regal Stationery and Office Supplies, Seaforth Street, Campbellville, president of the Georgetown Softball League Inc, Ian John, said apart from having the finals at the Stadium for the first time, another first will be airing of the finals via NCN Radio. John said the league is hoping for an improvement in the weather pattern following several days of rainfall. He noted that venues for the games include Queens College, Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) and Demerara Cricket Club (DCC). Eight teams: defending champions Regal Legends, along with Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA), Wellman, New York Softball Cricket League (NYSC), New York Hustlers, Rockaway Legends and Orlando Legends will battle for supremacy in the Over-50 division. Fisherman Masters are the defending champions in the Over-45 Masters division and they will be joined by Regal Masters, Success Masters, Ariel Masters, Essequibo and New York Doctors. The rivalry between defending champions, Speedboat, and Regal will be reignited in the Open Division. However, Success, Airport, Name Brand and Ariel will be aiming to end that two-team domination. In some mouth-watering fixtures set for Friday’s opening day, in the Open category, Speedboat take on Ariel; Regal Battle Success and Name Brand battle with Airport in the morning session. The afternoon will see Speedboat clashing with Airport, Name Brand meeting Success and Regal tackling Ariel. In the Over-45 division, the morning fixtures are New York Doctors vs Regal Masters, Fisherman Masters vs Success Masters and Ariel Masters vs Essequibo. Afternoon – New York Doctors vs Essequibo, Ariel Masters vs Success Masters and Fisherman Masters vs Regal Masters. In the Over-50, the following are the morning fixture: Group A – GFSCA vs Wellman, Regal Legends vs New York Hustlers; Group B - Orlando Legends vs Rockaway Legends, NYSCL vs Carpet Doctors. Afternoon – Group A –GFSCA vs New York Hustlers, Regal Legends vs Wellman, Orlando Legends vs Carpet Doctors and NYSCL Legends vs Rockaway Legends.

Dottin century fires West Indies to easy win in ODI opener 23 PAGE

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2021