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Guyanese trio- fast bowler Shamar Joseph, all-rounder Kevin Sinclair and wicketkeeper/batsman Tevin Imlach- have been included in West Indies 15-man squad to face Bangladesh in a two-Test series, starting November 22.

Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie will not feature in the Test series, as he has been granted approval to play for the Guyana Amazon Warriors in the first-ever ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League, which starts on November 26.

Below is a press release issued by Cricket West Indies on Friday evening  

Cricket West Indies (CWI) is excited to unveil the West Indies Test squad for the highly anticipated two-match series against Bangladesh.

This home series, scheduled from November 22 to December 4, 2024, in Antigua and Jamaica, marks a crucial chapter as the team looks to capitalize on home conditions and finish the World Test Championship on a high note.

Led by Kraigg Brathwaite, the squad features an exciting mix of seasoned, in-form players and fresh talent.

The in-form Justin Greaves is in the squad following a sensational run in the CG United Super50 Cup, where he smashed three centuries.

His recent performances have been a highlight of the domestic season and underscores how pivotal domestic platforms are for the next generation of talent.

Kevin Sinclair also returns to the squad as a valuable spin bowling option, while Jason Holder will miss the series as he continues rehabilitation for a shoulder injury.

West Indies Test Squad vs Bangladesh: Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Joshua Da Silva (Vice-Captain), Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Tevin Imlach, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Mikyle Louis, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Kevin Sinclair and Jomel Warrican.

Team Management:

Head Coach: Andre Coley

Team Manager: Rawl Lewis

Assistant Coach (Batting): Jimmy Adams

Assistant Coach (Bowling): James Franklyn

Assistant Coach (Fielding/Wicket-Keeping): Jamal Smith

Physiotherapist: Dr. Denis Byam

Strength & Conditioning Coach: Ronald Rogers

Masseuse: Darc Browne

Team Analyst: Avenesh Seetaram

Media Officer: Jerome Foster

Meanwhile, ahead of the Test series, Test Captain Kraigg Brathwaite will lead a CWI Select XI, 13-man squad, for the two-day warm-up match against Bangladesh, scheduled for November 17-18 at the CWI-owned Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

This warm-up match holds significant importance in preparation for the main Test series.

It offers a valuable opportunity for fringe players to showcase their skills in a competitive setting, while also providing Test players with an opportunity to fine-tune their form.

Head Coach Andre Coley remarked on the upcoming series.

“We expect the series against Bangladesh to be a competitive one between two emerging squads. The build up to the series, through the two-day warm-up match and training camp will provide us with the best possible preparation, as they will afford opportunities for both experienced and emerging players to fine-tune their skills ahead of the Test series. “

CWI Select XI Warm-Up Match Squad: Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Justin Greaves (Vice-Captain), Ryan Bandoo, Daniel Beckford, Navian Bidaisee, Joshua Dorne, Nathan Edward, Chaim Holder, Tevin Imlach, Jordan Johnson, Jair McAllister, Shaaron Lewis and Kimani Melius.

The CWI Select XI primarily consists of players not selected for their territorial CG United Super50 squads, allowing emerging talent to gain important exposure ahead of the series.

The match also presents a chance to develop young coaching talent, with Nikita Miller, a former West Indies international and first-class veteran, heading the coaching unit.

Pernel Watley, a locally identified pathway coach, will provide additional support.

West Indies vs Bangladesh Home Series Schedule:

Warm up Matches – CWI Select XI vs Bangladesh: 17 and 18 November 2024, Coolidge Cricket Ground, Antigua.

First Test- West Indies vs Bangladesh: 22-26 November 2024, Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua.

Second Test- West Indies vs Bangladesh: 30 November – 4 December 2024, Sabina Park, Jamaica

First CG UNITED ODI – West Indies vs Bangladesh: 8 December 2024, Warner Park, St Kitts & Nevis.

Second CG UNITED ODI- West Indies vs Bangladesh: 10 December 2024, Warner Park, St Kitts & Nevis.

Third CG UNITED ODI- West Indies vs Bangladesh: 12 December 2024, Warner Park, St Kitts & Nevis.

1st T20 International: West Indies vs Bangladesh: 15 December 2024, Arnos Vale, St Vincent & The Grenadines.

2nd T20 International: West Indies vs Bangladesh: 17 December 2024, Arnos Vale, St Vincent & The Grenadines.

3rd T20 International: West Indies vs Bangladesh: 19 December 2024, Arnos Vale, St Vincent & The Grenadines.

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See below full press release from the Canadian High Commission:

A high-level Canadian delegation, led by His Excellency Sébastien Sigouin, High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana, concluded a successful four-day visit to Guyana on November 15, 2024.

The delegation, which included representatives from Canada’s top commercial and development entities, sought to build stronger economic ties and explore substantial investment opportunities in Guyana, as the nation experiences rapid economic growth fueled by its emerging energy sector.

The Canadian delegation was composed of officials from the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC), Export Development Canada (EDC), ON2 Solutions, WSP, and Aecon.

Their agenda included meetings with Ministers of Government, such as the Ministers of Housing and Water, Health, Finance, Tourism, Industry and Commerce, and Public Works, as well as leaders from Scotiabank, the Guyana Office for Investment (G-Invest), and a discussion with His Excellency, President Dr. Irfaan Ali.

The visit highlighted Canada’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and strategic partnership with Guyana, focusing on Guyana’s expanding economy and emerging needs for sustainable critical infrastructure solutions.

High Commissioner Sigouin, speaking on the importance of this visit, remarked, “Canada has a longstanding friendship with Guyana, and we believe there is tremendous potential for Canadian companies to contribute to Guyana’s future. Canada has a longstanding tradition of delivering high quality goods and services as well as in sharing its extensive expertise and know-how. This visit represents Canada’s commitment to support Guyana’s transformation journey, and fostering a relationship based on core leadership values such as respect, transparency, ethical business practices, and high standards.”

The delegation’s engagements spanned several key sectors. ON2 Solutions, a leader in medical oxygen solutions, discussed opportunities to strengthen Guyana’s healthcare infrastructure, including potential collaborations to enhance medical oxygen supply chains, an area crucial for ensuring resilience in the healthcare system.

Infrastructure giants WSP and Aecon explored ways to contribute to Guyana’s ambitious public works and housing initiatives. With Guyana’s urban and rural areas both experiencing growth, the expertise of WSP and Aecon in several projects was met with interest from Guyanese officials eager to learn from Canada’s experience in sustainable infrastructure development.

These discussions centered on creating housing and transportation networks that could support Guyana’s economic trajectory while improving quality of life for its citizens.

Export Development Canada (EDC) and the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) discussed financial solutions that would support Canadian companies’ investments in the market.

Their goal was to introduce a partnership model that supports robust project development while ensuring long-term benefits for Guyana, especially through a government-to-government and P3 frameworks.

Another significant component of the visit included meetings with Scotiabank and G-Invest, Guyana’s primary investment promotion agency. These discussions focused on creating financial structures and incentives that would attract further investment from Canadian businesses.

Scotiabank, a familiar name in Guyana, underscored Canada’s unique advantage in financial services in the Guyanese market. G-Invest officials detailed Guyana’s investment landscape and investment opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, eco-tourism and agriculture.

In a meeting with President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the Canadian delegation discussed the potential for expanded collaboration at the highest level.

President Ali welcomed the delegation’s presence and shared his vision for Guyana’s growth, emphasizing the importance of foreign partnerships in achieving Guyana’s national development goals. President Ali commended Canada’s long-standing partnership with Guyana and expressed confidence that deeper bilateral cooperation could foster significant progress in sustainable development and infrastructure transformation that will be mutually beneficial for both countries and for the region.

The visit has set a promising trajectory for future collaborations between Canadian and Guyanese stakeholders. The Canadian delegation expressed optimism about transforming initial discussions into concrete partnerships, with several sectors identified for immediate collaboration. Canada’s emphasis on ethical business practices and long-term value creation was well received by Guyanese officials, who recognized these qualities as essential for sustainable and inclusive growth.

As Canada seeks to play a more significant role in the development of Guyana’s economy, both countries stand to benefit from a partnership that promotes innovation, expertise, and prosperity that benefits all the people of Guyana. The visit has reaffirmed Canada’s readiness to invest in Guyana’s future and to position Canadian companies as key contributors to the country’s ambitious development goals.

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West Indies’ batting performance was forgettable as England secured an unassailable 3-0 lead in their five-match T20I series with a three-wicket win at the Daren Sammy Cricket Stadium in Gros Islet on Thursday.

The hosts made a sub-par 145-8 from their 20 overs after being put in to bat.

For the second match in a row, the West Indies quickly found themselves on the back foot with the wickets of Shai Hope (4), Evin Lewis (3), Nicholas Pooran (7), Roston Chase (7) and Shimron Hetmyer (2) leaving them 37-5 in the sixth over.

Captain Rovman Powell and Romario Shepherd steadied the ship somewhat with a 73-run sixth-wicket partnership before Shepherd fell for 30 at the start of the 16th over.

Powell eventually made a top score of 54 odd 41 balls while Alzarri Joseph provided some valuable lower-order runs with 21*.

Saqib Mahmood continued his stunning form•Nov 14, 2024•Getty Images

Saqib Mahmood continued his excellent form with the ball in the series with 3-17 from his four overs while Jamie Overton was also brilliant, taking 3-20 from his four.

England then reached 149-7 with four balls to spare to secure the win and a series victory.

Sam Curran led the way with 41 while Liam Livingstone and Will Jacks made 39 and 32, respectively.

Akeal Hosein bowled excellently despite the loss with 4-22 from his four overs.

The fourth T20I will take place at the same venue on Saturday. (SportsMax)  

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By Kurt Campbell 

Kurt@newsroom.gy 

In his feature address at the opening of GuyExpo 2024 on Thursday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali outlined a bold vision for Guyana’s economic future. He says he makes no apologies for his government’s commitment to building long-term, sustainable wealth for the country.

The event, held at the Sophia Exhibition Centre, not only celebrated Guyana’s entrepreneurial spirit but also highlighted the nation’s path to prosperity — one that Dr. Ali says balances rapid growth with a commitment to resilience and sustainability.

In his speech, President Ali borrowed a poignant analogy from the Minister of Finance, describing Guyana as “running a marathon at sprint speed.” He explained that while the pace of the country’s development might seem rapid, it is carefully designed to ensure lasting success.

“A marathon is about endurance.

“It’s about resilience. It’s about sustainability. It’s about energy—long, sustained energy. It is not about outpacing yourself but ensuring that in completing the marathon, the energy is consistent and steady.”

The President’s remarks were a clear declaration of Guyana’s focus on building a robust economy—one that is not only growing quickly but also laying the foundations for long-term prosperity.

Guyana, with its newly discovered oil wealth and natural resources, has become the focus of intense global scrutiny.

And Dr. Ali noted that while other countries have encountered similar windfalls, many have failed to convert their newfound wealth into sustained economic development. So, he made it clear that Guyana intends to chart its own course.

“We are confident that the path we are defining for our country will lead to a prosperous, sustainable, and resilient future,” he asserted.

“And I make no apology for ensuring that our public infrastructure projects are accelerated, that our infrastructure is embraced, and that each and every project is delivered on time.”

The President emphasized that wealth creation in Guyana is not just about extracting resources but transforming them into value that benefits all sectors of society.

“We are not content to simply take from the earth and tally up the gains,” he said.

“Our vision is about creating wealth in a way that multiplies opportunities, transforms industries, and improves the lives of our citizens,” he added.

Guyana’s agricultural sector, for instance, is a prime example of this transformative approach. In just the past two years, the country has seen a sharp increase in agricultural production, including rice, cassava, and corn.

The country’s rice production is expected to rise from 653,000 tons last year to 720,000 tons this year, while cassava output has surged from 20 million tons to a projected 50 million tons. Shrimp production has jumped from 6,000 kg to 98,000 kg per month, and honey production is set to increase sixfold, from 3,000 gallons to 18,000 gallons.

These figures, said Ali, are not just numbers—they are the building blocks for a diversified economy that goes beyond oil and gas.

“Our commitment is firmly rooted in building a diversified economy that stands strong across every sector,” he declared. “Not just in oil, but in agriculture, in tourism, in technology—in every corner of productivity.”

But President Ali was quick to note that wealth creation isn’t just about the economy—it’s about people.

“We have a duty to the people of this nation,” he said.

“The revenues we earn from our natural resources must benefit the people. That is why we have special schemes designed for vulnerable sections of the population. We have policies that put money directly into the hands of families, young people, the elderly, and the vulnerable.”

He further emphasized that creating lasting wealth involves more than just distributing resources in the short term.

“Distributing resources is not the same as creating wealth,” he said.

“Cash grants can help our people now, yes, but we are not stopping there. To build lasting wealth, we have to invest in financial literacy and teach communities how to combine their individual capital and use it to generate new income.”

The President also outlined the government’s plans to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, with a strong focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

New industrial estates and infrastructure projects will provide the physical space and resources necessary for businesses to thrive. But alongside these investments in physical capital, there will be a concerted effort to develop human capital.

Education, healthcare, and social services are seen as critical to preparing the Guyanese people for the future, with financial literacy playing a central role in this transformation.

“Wealth creation is about investing in people, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to thrive,” President Ali said. “It’s about fostering a spirit of enterprise—a drive to innovate, take risks, and create new opportunities.”

At the core of Guyana’s strategy, he explained, is a partnership with both local and foreign investors.

“We welcome both local and foreign investment as catalysts for economic transformation,” Ali said. “Investors take on significant risk to help build our industries and infrastructure. These investments lay the groundwork for a more dynamic economy, one that creates jobs, enhances our skills base, and modernizes key sectors.”

The President’s remarks highlighted the nation’s commitment to a vision of shared prosperity, not just for Guyana but for the entire region. He reiterated the importance of integrating regional partners into the nation’s growth, saying, “The prosperity of Guyana will be incomplete if it does not contribute to the prosperity of our region.”

“This is why I make no apology,” he added, “for ensuring that we are building the future we want, with our own hands, our own resources, and our collective will.”

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The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has pledged its continued support for Haiti’s fragile transitional government as the nation grapples with escalating gang violence and deepening political instability.

In a statement released on Thursday, CARICOM acknowledged the severe challenges facing Haiti, where gangs have taken control of large parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and other regions.

As these criminal organizations grow in power, they have intensified violence, forcing hundreds of thousands of residents from their homes and further destabilizing an already struggling nation.

With the situation worsening, CARICOM emphasized its commitment to helping Haiti restore peace, security, and democratic governance.

“The pressure for Haiti’s transition to a new, democratically elected government grows by the day,” CARICOM said in its statement.

“The people of Haiti deserve a stable and secure environment, and we stand ready to assist in any way we can to ensure that Haiti’s political transition continues, despite the many obstacles.”

Haiti is in the grips of a devastating security crisis. In recent days, a coalition of gangs known as Viv Ansanm has expanded its territory, threatening one of the last remaining pockets of relative peace in Port-au-Prince.

Residents in the Solino and Nazon neighborhoods fled in panic earlier this week as the violence reached their doorsteps. Many carried their belongings in makeshift bags, as they sought safety from the gunfire and lawlessness now sweeping through the capital.

In addition to the growing territorial control by gangs, reports of widespread kidnapping, extortion, and sexual violence have emerged, with more than 700,000 people displaced by the conflict. The United Nations has warned of a dire humanitarian crisis, with food insecurity reaching alarming levels and approximately 6,000 people facing famine-level hunger.

The breakdown in security has been exacerbated by political infighting within the transitional government. This week, Prime Minister Garry Conille was removed from office after just a few months in power, a move that underscores the fragile nature of the country’s leadership. As violence escalates, Haiti’s political leaders are divided, and the promised foreign security mission to stabilize the country has made little headway.

Despite these setbacks, CARICOM has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Haiti’s political transition and the restoration of democratic institutions. The regional organization stressed that the solution to Haiti’s crises must come from within, with the Haitian people at the center of efforts to reclaim peace and governance.

“CARICOM remains steadfast in its belief that the resolution of Haiti’s problems must be homegrown and driven by the Haitian people,” the statement reads. “However, we stand ready to assist in facilitating dialogue and ensuring that all parties play their part in restoring stability, strengthening democratic institutions, and holding free and fair elections.”

CARICOM’s statement highlights the urgent need for cohesion among Haiti’s leaders as they work toward organizing elections under the transitional framework. The regional body emphasized that the country must adhere to its agreed-upon timeline for elections by November 2025—an essential step in restoring constitutional order and legitimacy.

The stakes for Haiti could not be higher. As the country’s political leadership flounders, the spread of gang violence threatens to overwhelm the state’s ability to respond. Without decisive action, Haiti risks falling further into chaos, potentially spiraling into a more entrenched conflict that could have serious implications for the entire region.

CARICOM has made it clear that it stands by Haiti in this critical moment, but the path forward will require not only external support but also internal unity and a renewed commitment from Haiti’s leadership. The recent departure of Prime Minister Conille has brought to the forefront the need for strong, accountable governance, and CARICOM’s statement underscores that Haiti’s political actors must work together to meet the challenge.

As gangs continue to gain ground, the international community is watching closely to see whether Haiti’s transitional government can overcome its internal divisions and implement the reforms needed to restore order. For CARICOM, the stakes are clear: the success of Haiti’s transition is critical not only to the future of the country but also to the stability of the wider Caribbean region.

CARICOM’s continued engagement with Haiti is a vital lifeline, but the road ahead remains fraught with obstacles. The fight against gangs, the restoration of law and order, and the holding of free elections by 2025 will require a coordinated effort from all sectors of Haitian society, with CARICOM providing necessary support and facilitation.

As the gangs solidify their hold over the country and political divisions threaten to paralyze the government, Haiti stands at a crossroads. CARICOM’s message is clear: the time for action is now, and the future of Haiti depends on the ability of its leaders, and its regional partners, to come together in the pursuit of peace and democratic renewal.

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With access to finance identified as the leading barrier to business growth in Guyana and the wider region, Kester Hutson, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), announced on Thursday that innovative financing options are being explored to tackle this challenge.

Speaking at the launch of the fourth edition of the GCCI’s Business Development Forum on Thursday, Hutson revealed that one of the initiatives under consideration is the creation of a junior market, facilitated by an anticipated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Jamaica Stock Exchange.

The two-day forum, which commenced at the Pegasus Hotel in Georgetown, is centred on ensuring that local businesses are strategically positioned to meet the needs of the rapidly expanding energy sector.

Continuing its mission to champion the interests of local businesses, GCCI highlighted that forum participants would hear from prime contractors in the oil and gas sector regarding upcoming supply chain opportunities and the necessary requirements to tap into the value chain.

The forum will also feature several Guyanese entrepreneurs who have successfully tailored their products to meet industry demands, and are now providing goods and services to oil and gas companies.

Joslyn McKenzie, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources, discussed recent legislative changes in the natural resources sector, including the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) and the Local Content Act.

“Some of the areas we are focusing on now include the oil spill legislation, which should be finalised and submitted shortly… The other one concerns the subsidiary regulations under the Petroleum Bill,” McKenzie informed attendees.

Meanwhile, Hutson highlighted that the forum provides a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and growth within the business community, helping to shape the future of business in Guyana.

He expressed satisfaction at the “shift in business attitude” and commended the significant efforts by GCCI to raise awareness about the available support for businesses.

According to Hutson, the forum discussions will focus on five key topics: access to finance, opportunities for business, improving standards and quality, doing business in Guyana, and marketing fundamentals.

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In a ruling on Wednesday, Justice Nigel Niles of the High Court ordered the State to pay a total of $24 million to the estate of Quindon Bacchus, who was shot dead by police officers in an incident that shocked the nation and sparked widespread public outrage.

The tragic death occurred on June 10, 2022, in Haslington, East Coast Demerara.

Quindon Bacchus, a 25-year-old father of one, was gunned down by members of the Guyana Police Force during what was initially described as an undercover sting operation.

The police had claimed that Bacchus was attempting to sell an unlicensed firearm to an undercover officer, and when the officers revealed their identities, Bacchus allegedly fired at them, prompting a fatal exchange of gunfire.

However, further investigations uncovered critical discrepancies in the police account of the events.

It was revealed that no authorised operation was taking place in the area at the time, and no senior officers were aware of any such operation.

Additionally, the firearm that police claimed Bacchus had used was found to be inoperable, making it impossible for him to have fired at the officers.

No civilian witnesses came forward to confirm the police version of events, further casting doubt on the official narrative.

In the wake of the incident, several police officers were placed under investigation. Lance Corporal Kristoff DeNobrega was charged with murder in connection with Bacchus’s death and has been remanded to stand trial in the High Court. Lance Corporal Simon and Sergeant McLennon were also charged with attempting to obstruct justice. The case has drawn attention to the issue of police accountability in Guyana.

The post-mortem report revealed that Bacchus died from multiple gunshot wounds—six shots in total, including five to his back and one to his chest. The young man, who left behind a three-year-old son, became a symbol of public grief, sparking protests and unrest across the nation.

In a courageous move, Bacchus’s mother, on behalf of his estate, filed a lawsuit against the State for the unlawful killing of her son. Dexter Todd and Associates Law Firm, representing the family, initiated the legal action, seeking justice for the brutal loss. The State initially denied liability, claiming that Bacchus’s death was the result of a legitimate police operation. However, in a significant development, the Attorney General’s Office conceded liability in a letter dated July 24, 2024, acknowledging that the police action had been unlawful.

With the issue of liability settled, the court turned its attention to the matter of damages. In his ruling, Justice Niles found that the police’s actions had breached Bacchus’s right to life under the Constitution of Guyana, noting that the right to life must be protected by the state, especially in cases involving unlawful use of force by law enforcement.

After considering similar cases, including settlement amounts and court judgments, Justice Niles ordered that the State pay the Bacchus family a total of $24 million. This sum includes:

• $1,000,000 for funeral expenses
• $22,500,000 in damages for the breach of Bacchus’s right to life
• $500,000 in legal costs

The ruling has been hailed as a significant step towards ensuring accountability within the Guyana Police Force. “This case underscores the fundamental principle that no one, not even those in positions of authority, is above the law,” said Dexter Smartt, one of the attorneys representing the Bacchus family. “It also serves as a reminder that the rights of all citizens must be safeguarded and upheld by the judiciary.”

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General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo chastised Alliance for Change (AFC) leader Nigel Hughes for untrue, divisive racial utterances made recently.

Jagdeo addressed the statements made by Mr. Hughes at a party press conference on Thursday.

In recent weeks, Hughes has come under pressure to apologise for the party’s role in derailing the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

And in a recent interview, he claimed that 1,200 African males disappeared and alleged other wrongdoings. Before that, in the same interview, Hughes said he promised to conduct a review of the party’s performance in his acceptance speech for party leader earlier this year. And he said until that assessment is complete, he will not speak on the concerns raised about the AFC’s involvement in derailing the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Jagdeo, however, noted that Mr. Hughes made these untrue utterances as part of plans to “obfuscate” concerns over the AFC’s role in the elections and draw attention away from himself and the party.

“When he is concerned and flustered, they go back to the same old rhetoric. The whole facade of decency and speaking in an erudite way and all of that and then you see the ugly face of racism coming out,” Jagdeo said.

He continued, “Where did he get the 1,200 African males who disappeared under the PPP from?

“It’s a lie and for them, they are hoping that this set of lies again will carry them through the future,” Jagdeo said.

Jagdeo then challenged Mr. Hughes to produce a list of names of those 1,200 men who he claims disappeared.

Jagdeo said a Stabroek News report evidences his position, and that article should be perused by Hughes.

The 2019 report produced by the newspaper showed that about 400 persons, including bandits and Police Officers, lost their during a crime wave in the early 2000s. Indo-Guyanese were also part of the more than 400 persons who were killed during the crime wave that involved prison escapees supported by key figures in the People’s National Congress opposition.

Jagdeo also noted that such divisive politics must not be allowed.

“… He was part of the old politics, the old AFC politics of dividing people while claiming to be multiethnic,” the PPP/C General Secretary lamented.

Contrastingly, Jagdeo said, the PPP/C is the only party in Guyana that has proven it is indeed multiethnic and works in the interest of all citizens.

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The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has officially launched its highly anticipated Harmony T10 Tapeball tournament, which commences on November 17 at the Transport Sports Club, Thomas Lands.

This exciting initiative features 48 teams from across Guyana, all competing to promote unity and inclusivity through sport.

The ERC T10 Harmony League is not just a cricket tournament; it celebrates cultural diversity and sportsmanship, bringing together players from various communities to connect, compete, and grow.

The tournament will run until December 8, culminating in a thrilling final match that promises to showcase the best talent and teamwork from the participating teams.

During Thursday’s launch event, ERC Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack delivered a compelling address, emphasising the organisation’s mission to foster harmony and understanding among all ethnic groups in Guyana.

He stated, “At the ERC, our mission is clear: to promote harmony and understanding among all the ethnic groups residing in Guyana.

Through this tournament, we take another meaningful step towards that goal. The ERC T10 Harmony League is more than a cricket tournament; it is a platform for unity, inclusion, and mutual respect.”

Hack further highlighted that the tournament is designed to create opportunities for players from diverse backgrounds to engage and interact, thus reinforcing the values of cooperation and respect.

Chairman of the Ethnic Relations Commission, Shaikh Moeenul Hack

Teams from various locations, including Kuru Kururu, Mocha, Zeeburg, Diamond, Essequibo, Mahdia, East Bank, and Central Georgetown, will compete, showcasing the rich tapestry of Guyana’s communities.

The tournament’s management and logistics are being handled in collaboration with Oak Tree, ensuring that the event runs smoothly and successfully.

John Ramsingh, one of the tournament organizers, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We at Oak Tree are happy to assist the ERC in executing this excellent tournament.

Unifying people and communities through sport is a noble endeavor that aligns with our core objectives in promoting the sport. Judging from previous T10 tournaments, there has been quality play on the field, and we certainly hope to see such continue, alongside enthusiastic support from fans.”

Organiser, John Ramsingh

The tournament will feature matches on November 17, November 23, November 24, and November 30, culminating in the finals on December 8, 2024.

The event is designed to be accessible and engaging for the entire community, with free entry for both teams and spectators.

The tournament offers enticing rewards, including $500,000 for the winning team, $250,000 for the runner-up, and $100,000 each for the two semi-finalists.

Individual accolades such as $60,000 each for the Man of the Final, Most Runs, and Most Wickets will be awarded, along with magnificent trophies sponsored by Trophy Stall.

By facilitating this tournament, the ERC hopes to create lasting connections among participants, promote mutual respect, and strengthen community bonds across Guyana.

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