Monthly Archives: July, 2024

OGGN raises another oil banner at Sybil’s restaurant in NYC Jul 07, 2024 News Members of OGGN outside of Sybil’s bakery in New York …calls on Gov’t to demand full oil spill liability and profit taxes Kaieteur News – Members of the Oil and Gas Global Network (OGGN) on Saturday raised an oil banner to express their discontent with the Stabroek Block Contract at Sybil’s, a Guyanese bakery in New York City. The banner focuses, on the OGGN calling for Guyana and the Caribbean to be protected in the case of a massive oil spill and for profit taxes to be paid by Exxon and its partners. OGGN stated, “In his June 28th column titled, Oil companies have earned five times more from oil than Guyana, Chris Ram (Christopher Ram) showed in a table that the taxes that were NOT paid by the foreign oil companies for 2023 amounted to US$1.5 billion dollars. In contrast, the oil profits that Guyana received in 2023 were US$1.4 billion.” There are 142 countries that are part of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) initiative to tackle tax avoidance by multi-national corporations. OGGN highlighted that Guyana is one of the few countries that is not part of this initiative. “The foreign oil companies use Guyana’s infrastructure such as roads and airports. Guyanese tax payers funded those infrastructure that the oil companies take for granted,” OGGN said in a statement, while highlighting that instead, the government issued fake tax receipts to the oil companies. “We at OGGN demand that Exxon and its partners pay taxes on their oil profits. Additionally, Guyana needs to join the OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) to give us the leverage to force multinational oil companies such as Exxon to pay their taxes,” OGGN concluded. Related Similar Articles

Guyanese leaders and their position on renegotiation of Exxon’s contract Jul 07, 2024 News Kaieteur News – The renegotiation of Guyana’s Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) has been a contentious issue, drawing varied responses from the country’s political leaders. This article delves into the positions held by key figures, as it relates to the PSA signed in 2016 with ExxonMobil and its partners, Hess Corporation and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC). Who signed the deal? Former Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, during his tenure under the APNU + AFC Coalition government between 2015 and 2020, was the one who signed the deal in 2016 with Exxon. The deal Trotman signed waives all taxes from the oil companies, gives Guyana a 2% royalty on its rich resources, and agrees to the oil companies recovering 75% of investments before the remaining 25% is shared, with Guyana receiving 12.5%. The arrangement, with the lack of ring-fencing, sees Guyana paying for projects that are yet to commence production activities. Each month, bills from future producing developments are added to the list of expenses to be cost-recovered by Exxon. Notably, last year Trotman emerged as a vocal advocate for renegotiation. In his book titled ‘From Destiny to Prosperity’, Trotman criticized the terms he negotiated, describing them as unfavorable to Guyana’s interests. He publicly supported revisiting the agreement to secure more equitable benefits for the country. Despite his advocacy, Trotman’s calls for renegotiation were met with resistance from the current administration. PSA amended before  In 2019, the Coalition government approached the Exxon consortium, and successfully renegotiated a critical fiscal element. According to Addendum No. 1 to the Petroleum Agreement dated April 26, 2019, it was evident that the named parties were in agreement that the contract allowed for the 2% royalty to be recovered. To plug this loophole, the Addendum that was subsequently filed with the Deeds Registry categorically stated that it shall not be recovered in any way. Sealing the new arrangement were former President, David Granger and President of Exxon, Rodney D. Henson. Affixing their signatures as witnesses were former Head of the Energy Department, Dr. Mark Bynoe and the country’s Petroleum Advisor at the time, Matthew Wilks. The foregoing document was first disclosed by Chartered Accountant and Attorney-at-Law, Christopher Ram in his column that was published in the Stabroek News. The Addendum for which this newspaper has secured a copy, states that the parties engaged in discussions and “in the interest of the avoidance of all doubt, the parties have come to a mutual and satisfactory agreement that the payment of royalty pursuant to Article 15.6 of the Petroleum Agreement shall be borne solely by the Contractor.” It goes on to state that “the said royalty payment shall not be recoverable cost, in any manner or formulation under the Petroleum Agreement.” Annex C of the PSA, specifically subsection 3.3 titled “Costs not recoverable under the agreement” was then modified and amended to also include: (h) payments of royalty by the contractor made in accordance with Article 15.6 of the agreement. Despite the aforementioned, the lopsided deal remains in place. The following are the positions held by President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, leader of the People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNCR), Aubrey Norton, leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC) Nigel Hughes and others – shedding light on their perspectives regarding the crucial oil deal. President Irfaan Ali Irfaan Ali was sworn in as Guyana’s 9th Executive President on August 2, 2020. Ali has maintained a firm stance against renegotiating the existing PSA. In an interview with the BBC, Ali acknowledged criticisms that the deal skewed benefits in favor of ExxonMobil, stating, “We did not have the best of deals.” Despite recognizing the deal’s shortcomings, Ali underscored the importance of upholding the sanctity of contracts, asserting, “We cannot go back and renegotiate.” The People’s Progressive Party (PPP/C) has consistently dispelled claims that they promised to renegotiate the Stabroek Block PSA, while in opposition. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has been equally steadfast in his opposition to renegotiating the Exxon PSA. Jagdeo, a key figure in Guyana’s energy policy, reiterated during press conferences and interviews that the current contract’s terms must be respected to maintain investor confidence. He underscored the economic benefits Guyana derives from the agreement, including substantial revenue and job creation in the oil sector. Jagdeo defended the government’s decision by stating, “We have a PSA that determines our shares of the proceeds, so we are limited by that.” Former President Donald Ramotar While President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo have staunchly defended the existing contract, citing the principle of sanctity of contracts and the potential legal ramifications of altering terms unilaterally – the only person in the PPP camp that has taken a different position is former President Donald Ramotar. Ramotar has publicly said that he would have renegotiated the lopsided deal. “It’s better to fight than not to fight at all,” he said. The former head-of-state has described the current contract as detrimental, depriving Guyana of vital resources, and expressed his willingness to renegotiate for the country’s benefit. He said, “I am one of the persons who believes that the contract is a very bad contract…that deprives us of a lot of resources.” As such, he continued by stating that he would have been in agreement to renegotiate the deal to seek more benefits for the country. To this end, Ramotar acknowledged the current administration’s reluctance to change the existing deal while noting that they have explored alternative avenues to maximise benefits for the nation. PNCR Leader Aubrey Norton Aubrey Norton has taken a nuanced position on the Exxon PSA, advocating for amendments without explicitly calling for renegotiation.  Norton expressed this stance during a press conference in response to a question from Kaieteur News about whether Guyana should consider Trinidad and Tobago’s offer to assist in renegotiating the contract. Norton emphasised that while Guyana should be open to utilizing advice from other nations, he rejects the term “renegotiation” due to its implications, stating, “no one is going to choose the language we use on this question.” Norton clarified that he advocates for using legal provisions within the existing contract to engage ExxonMobil for better terms without formally reopening negotiations. He highlighted the importance of respecting the “sanctity of contracts” under international law, indicating that his stance is informed by thorough discussions. Trinidad’s Minister of Energy, Stuart Young, had offered T&T’s expertise in renegotiating contracts, citing their successful experience in the gas industry. Norton acknowledged such offers of assistance while asserting Guyana’s sovereignty in determining its approach to managing its oil resources. AFC Leader Nigel Hughes Nigel Hughes, prominent attorney and newly elected leader of the AFC has taken a cautious stance regarding the contentious issue of renegotiating the oil deal. Days before his election as leader Hughes declined to comment on the potential renegotiation of the contentious 2016 oil deal saying that the company is a client of his law firm. Hughes, a prominent attorney and former AFC Chairman, who was successful elected leader of that party on Saturday, made these remarks during an appearance on Dr. David Hinds’ programme ‘Politics 101’ on June 27. During the interview, Dr. Hinds asked, “Nigel as leader of the AFC, are you going to urge the party to renegotiate the contract, if it gets into power by itself or with other parties? The oil contract I’m talking about with Exxon…” “David I, I will say this and I think I said it the other night…Exxon is a client of our firm, I’m making it public now so nobody can’t say that I have never made it [known]. Several oil companies are clients of our firm. I cannot comment on that,” Hughes responded. Notably, Hughes stated that while he is unable to comment on renegotiating the lopsided deal, he has other plans if elected. He stated, “What I have said is that I will set up committees and if we get into government, commissions that are specifically dedicated to dealing with oil, generally.” “I will insist that they hire the best professional advice internationally, both in terms of law in terms of economics, and in terms of the business of oil because the business of oil is the most sophisticated business on the planet because it runs the planet,” Hughes continued Former EPA Director Dr. Vincent Adams While a number of key political figureheads have in the past-adumbrated varying positions when it comes to the renegotiation of the PSA, former Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Vincent Adams says otherwise. Dr. Adams had pointed to the provision in the contract and suggested the fact it exists in the PSA; is indicative of the fact it can be renegotiated. The provision obtains at Article 13.2 of the PSA but comes with the caveat — the renegotiations and happens only with a signed written agreement between all of the parties involved. According to that provision in the PSA, commonly referred to as the contract, “This Agreement shall not be amended or modified in respect except by written agreement entered into by all the parties which shall state the date upon which the amendment or modifications shall become effective.” According to Dr. Adams, “since way back in 2016, I was on the front page of the newspapers calling for a renegotiation of the contract.” He was adamant, “nothing has changed my mind.” In fact, he posits, “to me anyway the government still owes the people of Guyana the obligation to renegotiate that contract and don’t let anybody tell you that contract is not renegotiable.” The former EPA Director insists the contract spells out provision for renegotiations and said, “If it was not the intention that it can’t be renegotiated, that clause would not be there. He reminded nonetheless of the caveat calling for a written agreement by all parties involved to say, “…the parties must have to agree to renegotiate, I would love to see government tell Exxon (Mobil) we want renegotiation.” According to Dr. Adams, “when I hear people say we can’t renegotiate, that’s absolute nonsense.” He was adamant, “it’s in there, the clause was put in there because there’s a possibility that it could be renegotiated, don’t let anybody fool you and tell you that it can’t be renegotiated because we sign it.” Related Similar Articles

Police says Venezuelan man was killed after scuffle with drinking buddies Jul 07, 2024 News Murder at Quartzstone Backdam Kaieteur News – Police on Saturday said that the Venezuelan man murdered at Quartzstone Backdam, Cuyuni River, Region Seven was chopped to death following a scuffle with his drinking buddies in one of the shops there. A photo a captured suspect identified as ‘Pellupa’ Dead: Adrian Williams The victim, 21-year-old Adrian Williams was reportedly killed around 00:30 hrs on Friday. Investigators have identified the drinking buddies as Venezuelan nationals too and named them as the prime suspects in their investigation. One of accused is called ‘Pellupa’ and the other “Barber”. Detectives were told that ‘Pellupa’ was seen armed with a cutlass attempting to chop a motionless Williams. When persons intervened he ran-away. Police in their statement said that ranks are still hunting the two suspects but Kaieteur understands that ‘Pellupa’ was caught. It is unclear if it was the Guyanese police who captured him but he was reportedly tied with a rope and cable ties. Reports are that the suspect was attempting to dispose of Williams’ body when he was caught. He was reportedly seen dragging the man’s body away from the scene. Meanwhile, preliminary investigations by police revealed that at around 23:30hrs Williams was seen with the two suspects consuming alcohol at a shop. The owner of the shop reportedly said that he locked his shop after the men left and went to bed. However, shortly thereafter, another person heard a loud noise coming from in front of the shop.  The eyewitness said he peeped out and saw Williams involved in a scuffle with ‘Barber’ after which onlookers separated them. Another individual also residing in the same area recalled hearing a loud noise around 00:30 hrs and when he went outside he saw a suspect “standing over Williams with a cutlass, attempting to chop him further”. Onlookers again intervened and the suspect ran away leaving Williams in the middle of a walkway in a pool of blood. Police ranks reported that when they arrived on the scene they found Williams’ body on the ground clad in short pants, with no footwear or top. Several chop wounds were seen on his right chin, throat, the left side of his head, and the right shoulder. Related Similar Articles

Give de power back to de people! Jul 07, 2024 Dem Boys Seh, Features / Columnists, News Kaieteur News – Business and politics, like oil and water, dem seh dem don’t mix. Yet, like curry and roti, they always find a way to come together. Some seh is for the better, but Dem Boys know better. See, when de big business tycoon decide he want to be president, wha yuh think he doing it for? To serve de people? Ha! Dem Boys seh, is to serve heself. More power, more money. That’s the mantra. He might talk nice ‘bout helping de poor and fixing de Gee Pee Hell. But de real motive is always hidden under a big, shiny hat. De same politician who say he love de people always got big business friends. Dem buddies always smiling in photo ops. Why? Cause dem know, when decisions need to be made, their wallets must get fatter. Contracts, tax breaks, sweet deals – is all a game of scratch me back, I scratch yours. And wha happen to de small man? De fisherman, de market vendor, de school teacher? Dem Boys seh, de small man like grass in a big people football match. Trampled and forgotten. De big decisions affecting we life made in fancy boardrooms over imported whiskey. No wonder de average Joe never get a seat at de table. Why can’t we, de people, have more say in de decisions? Dem Boys seh, give de power back to de people! Let de fisherman decide ‘bout de fishing laws. Let de market vendor help shape market policies. Is time we stop being de backdrop in de political stage show. But no, dem big ones think de people too stupid. They fear giving us control cause we might actually make sense. Imagine that! Policies made for people by people. It sound too good to be true. And maybe it is, in this land where business and politics dance hand in hand. Dem Boys seh, is time to break up de love affair between politicians and businessmen. Give de power to de people. Cause after all, we is who does feel de pinch and de pain of bad decisions. Let we have a say. We tired being de grass. Let we play de game too. Talk half. Leff half Related Similar Articles

PC dethrones Waramuri Top to claim the crown Jul 07, 2024 Sports Chase’s Academic Foundation celebrate the successful retention of their title ExxonMobil Boys’ and Girls’ U14 Football Championships… …Chase’s Academic Foundation retains title Kaieteur Sports – The fifth Annual ExxonMobil Boys’ and Girls’ Under-14 Football Championships came to an electrifying conclusion on Saturday at the Ministry of Education ground, with President’s College (Girls) and Chase’s Academic Foundation (Boys) emerging as the victors. The tournament, organised by the Petra Organisation, showcased a dazzling display of speed, tenacity, execution, and willpower from all participating teams. President’s College (PC) dethroned last year’s champions, Waramuri Top, in a nail-biting Girls finale. The match remained goalless through regular time, forcing the game into 12 minutes of intense extra time. Kimora Edwards was the hero of the day, scoring twice to secure the title for President’s College. Her first goal was ‘spot on’ coming from a long ball that deflected off a standing defender and made its way into the net, giving PC a crucial 1-0 lead. In the second half of extra time, Edwards doubled the advantage by intercepting a cross and skillfully finishing with only one defender trailing behind her. Waramuri Primary Top fought valiantly but couldn’t find an equaliser, eventually falling 2-1 to hand PC the 2024 title. ExxonMobil’s representative hands over the first place trophy to PC captain, Kimora Edwards and her team at the conclusion of the Championship. The boys’ final saw Chase’s Academic Foundation claim a hard-fought 1-0 victory over a resilient Dolphin Secondary. The match was tightly contested, with both teams unable to score in the first half. As the second half progressed, Chase’s Academic Foundation ramped up their attack, and their persistence paid off when Mark Glasgow unleashed a thunderous strike from outside the box. His goal, coming after a brilliant four-pass sequence, broke the deadlock and proved to be the decisive moment of the match. Despite Dolphin Secondary’s relentless attempts to equalise, Chase’s stout defense held firm, securing the championship with a 1-0 win. The closing ceremony celebrated individual and team achievements, with winners receiving a total of $60,000 in cash prizes. In the girls’ category, Bartica Secondary claimed third place, while Charity Secondary was awarded the Most Disciplined Team. Kimora Edwards (President’s College) and Nariswar Williams (Santa Rosa) were honoured as the Most Valuable Player and Most Goals awardees, respectively. While in the boys’ division, Leonora Secondary secured third place with a thrilling 2-1 victory over South Ruimveldt. Jaden Christian of South Ruimveldt was recognized for scoring the most goals in the competition, totaling ten, while Mark Glasgow was named the Most Valuable Player. The tournament, sponsored by ExxonMobil with the support of entities like Stena Drilling, DDL/Pepsi, and MVP Sports, was approved by the Ministry of Education and sanctioned by the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports. Related Similar Articles

Former Miss Earth Guyana vying Miss Universe Guyana 2024 title Jul 07, 2024 News Kaieteur News – Former Miss Earth Guyana Faydeha King is among several beauties vying for the distinguished title of Miss Universe Guyana 2024. Former Miss Earth Guyana Faydeha King Given her constant advocacy for environmental issues, King’s platform, aptly named “iPlant,” is a testament to Guyana’s biodiversity efforts and their global impact on environmental preservation. She is officially endorsed by RECOVER; a registered Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) focused on environmental sustainability, the Miss Universe Guyana’s hopeful has secured substantial funding from the NGO to support for her initiative. This funding will drive the continuation and expansion of projects promoting sustainability, healthy living, and beautification through extensive planting efforts across Guyana. In addition to RECOVER’s support, King has received incredible backing from the Ministry of Education and NAREI, significantly contributing to the launch of her platform’s “Farm to Table” project. This initiative has already seen the distribution of numerous seedlings at the recently concluded Miss Guyana Culture Queen Pageant, encouraging Guyanese to cultivate healthier kitchen gardens for their families. The former Miss Earth Guyana is also committed to planting 1,000 seeds by the end of 2024, a goal made achievable with a sizeable donation of fruit and vegetable seeds from the Agriculture Ministry. She says “I plan to use the Miss Universe Guyana title to amplify my platform and advocacy for a more sustainable environment. As a country, we have been proactively championing the cause of climate change. Our President, His Excellency, Dr. Irfaan Ali and many local entities have done an exemplary job at defending Guyana’s Biodiversity footprint, and I intend to lend my voice and ambition to this cause.” Miss Universe Guyana hopeful Faydeha King is decked in a gown by Randy Madray; the Brand; Credits Makeup: Miguel Ram Photography: Michael Bonds Gown: Randy Madray Additionally she stated:  “I am a proud Guyanese who takes every opportunity to shine a light on our power and prowess as a people and a nation that is second to none!  I feel a readiness to fly our flag high on the international stage, especially at this juncture where the globe has its eyes on us, as the fastest growing economy in the world.” “Through advocacy, experience and a passion for my country, I believe this is an opportune time for us to create history together. Looking forward to your support, Guyana! ”she said. At 31, King is a modern-day woman who balances many roles: a spirited entrepreneur, an environmental enthusiast focused on sustainability, and a proud mother to her three-year-old son, Ace. A veteran in the pageant industry, King has competed in 10 pageants, winning six titles, including Miss Earth Guyana 2019 and Miss Black San’ International 2018. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and is currently pursuing her Masters. During her Miss Universe Guyana tenure, Ms. King announced her official endorsement and chaperoning by Randy Madray and his exceptional team. Former Miss Earth Guyana Faydeha King is vying for Miss Universe Guyana 2024 title Madray, a pageant prodigy renowned for his awe-inspiring designs and strategic direction, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the contestant’s preparation for this prestigious event. King is deeply honored to have Randy and his team in her camp, aiding her journey to the Miss Universe Guyana stage. In a statement, the fashion brand noted that Ms. King is the first Miss Earth Guyana to place top 20 on the international stage, she is an ‘only child’ who is not spoiled and she is a country girl who can climb a coconut tree in under three minutes. Among her proudest achievements is helping to rebuild a home for her family after a tragedy took her grandfather’s life and childhood memorabilia in 2019. Demonstrating resilience and determination, King worked hard to ensure her family has a place to call home once again. The final coronation is on July 26th where King is poised to compete alongside some of Guyana’s best and brightest, at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. Related Similar Articles

Organizers prepare for bigger turn out at Merch Anime Rave Spectacle 2024 Jul 07, 2024 News Guyana’s premier anime and pop culture celebration… Kaieteur News – The countdown is on for Guyana’s premier anime and pop culture celebration-Merch Anime Rave Spectacle (MARS) 2024 set to take place on August 17th at the Marriott Hotel Kingston, Georgetown. This year’s space-themed convention is shaping up to be the biggest and most ambitious event yet. For 2024, the organizers are estimating a bigger turnout, and they’re confident the community-focused approach that has driven MARS’ success will continue. “This is only possible through the effort of community building,” the founder noted. “It’s a niche and specific group of people that enjoy it, so MARS helps bring those people together.” Organized by Sozo’s Enterprise the convention first launched in 2022 with the goal of building a dedicated community space for anime enthusiasts. Now in its third year, MARS has cemented its status as the largest and most anticipated anime event in Guyana. “MARS is not just another event, we are building a community,” explained the event’s co-founder, George Jacobs. Persons attending MARS2023 And the community has responded in a big way. The Waterfalls has learnt what started as an expected turnout of around 200 people quickly blossomed into over 700 attendees in the first year. In 2023, that number nearly quadrupled, with close to 3,000 people flocking to the convention. The 2024 edition of MARS is taking that community-building mission to new heights with an exciting space theme that encourages attendees to embrace their creativity and self-expression. “We allow persons to come in the way that they envision themselves,” the founder shared. “There are some guidelines, but persons can come as any character from any multiverse, anything they feel comfortable expressing themselves through.” Jacobs added. Alongside the beloved MARS runway, where co-players and graphic tee enthusiasts can showcase their passion, this year’s convention will feature a host of new and returning activities. Perhaps the most anticipated is the Anime Rap Battle, which puts a unique spin on the traditional rap battle format by allowing participants to showcase their talents on stage, with the crowd deciding the winners. The event will also continue to spotlight the diverse array of small businesses and companies that have become an integral part of the MARS experience. Bad Monkey and Yugoih, for example, will be on hand, giving attendees the chance to discover new products and services. A scenes MARS comic and convention The event will once again feature an artist’s alley, showcasing a diverse array of local talent. Attendees can expect to see works from Raad’s Custom Rugs, ArtistoKat, ZestCo, Melia’s Creations, Mulanii’s Art, The Art Realm, and Gilded Crafts, among others. Tickets for MARS 2024 are available for purchase at various Bad Monkey store locations, including Regent Multi-Complex Mall, Giftland Mall, Amazonia Mall, Movietowne Mall, and Vreed-en-Hoop. As Guyana’s anime community eagerly awaits the return of MARS, the event’s organizers remain committed to creating a space that caters to the desires and interests of their dedicated attendees. With its unique blend of creative expression, community-building and pop culture celebration, MARS 2024 is poised to be another unforgettable experience for anime fans across the country. So, get ready to blast off to MARS and join in the festivities as Guyana’s anime community reaches new heights on August 17th. Related Similar Articles