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Masked, armed bandits rob Chinese Nationals at Supply, EBD Aug 31, 2024 News Kaieteur News – Two Chinese nationals were on Thursday robbed by four armed and masked men who forcefully gained entry to their Supply Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD) home. The victims, identified as 49-year-old Fu Gofu, and Manyi An, a 38-year-old, both sales persons-were robbed of their cell phones, laptops and other valuables. Kaieteur News understands that the victims reside at a two-storey house and that on the day in question; they retired to bed around 21:00h. The duo was awakened by four masked men who demanded their valuables. The armed men ransacked the house and carted off cell phones, laptops, and other valuable items. On inspection, it was discovered that bandits gained entry to the home by prying open a glass window on the ground floor of the two storey house. Investigations are ongoing. Related Similar Articles

Sir Shridath Ramphal passes on Aug 31, 2024 News …hailed as a ‘Gem of Guyana’; ‘a Caribbean Man’ Kaieteur News – Sir Shridath “Sonny” Ramphal, a towering figure in international diplomacy and one of the Caribbean’s most respected elder statesmen, died peacefully on August 30, 2024, at the age of 95. His family confirmed that Sir Shridath was surrounded by his children at the time of his passing. Sir Shridath “Sonny” Ramphal Sir Shridath was born on October 3, 1928, in New Amsterdam, British Guiana (now Guyana). He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 67 years, Lady Lois Ramphal, who passed away in 2019. His illustrious career spanned several decades and left an indelible mark on global diplomacy, Caribbean development, and the fight against institutional racism. He was a distinguished alumnus of King’s College London and Gray’s Inn, London. His career was marked by a series of pivotal roles, including Assistant Attorney-General of the West Indies Federation, Minister of Justice and Foreign Affairs of Guyana, and Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, a position he held for 15 years, making him the longest-serving individual in that role. As Commonwealth Secretary-General from 1975 to 1990, Sir Shridath played a key role in the international campaign against apartheid in South Africa. His efforts were instrumental in the eventual termination of apartheid, earning him global respect and admiration. Nelson Mandela once said of him: “He is one of those men who have become famous because, in their fight for human justice, they have chosen the whole world as their theatre.” Sir Shridath also served as Chancellor of the University of Guyana, the University of the West Indies, and Warwick University. He was involved in various global initiatives, serving on all the Global Commissions that produced landmark reports on the environment, development, and disarmament between 1980 and 1995. His leadership as Chairman of the West Indian Commission culminated in the 1992 report, “Time for Action,” which remains a seminal blueprint for Caribbean development. In addition to his diplomatic contributions, Sir Shridath was a key figure in environmental conservation, serving as President of the World Conservation Union and Special Adviser to the UN Conference on Environment and Development. He also played a significant role as Chief Negotiator for the Caribbean on External Economic Relations. On June 30, 2020, Sir Shridath Ramphal, Guyana’s Co-Agent and Head of the Legal Team in Guyana’s border case against Venezuela, opened Guyana’s arguments before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the issue of the court having jurisdiction to hear the matter. Even in his later years, Sir Shridath remained active on the international stage. At 92, he became the first lawyer to appear virtually before the International Court of Justice during the COVID-19 pandemic, representing Guyana in a critical border controversy case with Venezuela. Throughout his life, Sir Shridath received numerous prestigious honours, including the Order of the Caribbean Community (OCC), the Knight Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George (GCMG), the Order of Excellence of Guyana (OE), the Order of Merit of Jamaica (OM), the Order of the Companions of Oliver Tambo from South Africa, and Honorary Companion of the Order of Australia (AC). He was also appointed to the Order of New Zealand, New Zealand’s highest civil honor. President Irfaan Ali President Irfaan Ali in his message of condolence said, “The passing of Sir Shridath Ramphal marks the end of an era, not only for Guyana but for the entire Caribbean and the Commonwealth of Nations. We mourn the loss of an outstanding statesman, a regionalist par excellence, and a committed internationalist. Sir Shridath’s life was one of magnificent service—dedicated to his homeland, to the region, and to the world.” He highlighted Sir Shridath’s commitment to defending Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty and his efforts before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the Tribunal of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). “[They] were not just a service to the nation; they were acts of supreme and selfless devotion to the land that nurtured him,” Ali said. Describing Sir Shridath as “a gem of Guyana”, President Ali said he was a towering figure in the Caribbean, and a respected leader in the Commonwealth. “His loss is deeply felt, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Guyana has lost one of its finest sons, and the Caribbean and the Commonwealth, a giant among men,” the president added. “On behalf of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, the land of his birth, I express my deepest condolences to his family, relatives and to the countless friends, associates, and admirers who were touched by his life and work. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of grief. We stand with them, celebrating the life of a true legend—Sir Shridath Ramphal,” the head-of-state said. Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall Attorney General Anil Nandlall recognised Sir Shridath for his outstanding contribution to Guyana. He said that Sir Shridath played a pivotal role in settling Guyana’s maritime dispute with Suriname. He was the Co-Agent and Counsel on the Guyana-Suriname Maritime Arbitration (2004 – 2007). “In respect of the ongoing case between Guyana and Venezuela, Sir Shridath was one of the leading lawyers from the inception. He remained part of the legal team until his demise. Being privileged to be afforded an opportunity to work with that team and appear at the International Court of Justice, I had the first-hand opportunity of observing Sir Shridath at work. Personally, it was an intellectually stimulating exercise. He was already in his 90’s but his agility of mind and intellectual nimbleness was superlative. Even at that age, his energy and enthusiasm were boundless. When he could not travel, he would call to have discussions during the work sessions and before and after every Court Hearing. The respect which he commanded from the other legal luminaries on the team was simply extraordinary,” the Attorney General stated. He added that no doubt, Guyana and the Caribbean have lost a distinguished son. “He has lived a full life and left an unmistakable mark. The footprints of his contribution will remain embedded on the national and global stage for generations to come,” Nandlall said on behalf of his chambers, and the legal profession of Guyana. People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) In a Facebook post, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) said that they are deeply saddened by the passing of Sir Shridath. “The Party extends condolences to his family, relatives and many friends at this time of their bereavement,” the party said noting that a detailed will be issued. May his Soul Rest in Eternal Peace,” the statement said. Alliance For Change (AFC) In its tribute to Sir Shridath, the Alliance For Change (AFC) underscored that Sir Shridath was Guyana’s most prominent Statesman, who distinguished himself as a Guyanese, both in Guyana, and internationally. “Sir Shridath Ramphal has to be counted alongside former President’s Burnham and Jagan as one of the men and women who were instrumental in shaping the independent Guyana into what it is today. He was part of the firmament of the Guyana we have inherited,” the party said. AFC highlighted that as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Secretariat Sir Shridath positioned the Commonwealth in the post-colonial era as being a truly global organisation, and gave a voice to African, Caribbean and Asian states. The AFC extended its heartfelt condolences to the relatives of the late Sir Shridath Ramphal. “It can be said that Sir Shridath died “with his boots on” – fighting for justice, and for his people, until his last breath,” it was stated. Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Amor Mottley, on her Facebook page said Sir Shridath deserved the title of ‘Caribbean Man’. “If ever there was one who walked among us who truly deserved the title of Caribbean Man, it was Sir Shridath Ramphal. At the same time, if ever we needed a definition of the term Global Citizen, a look at the resumé of Sir Shridath would be all we require,” she said while extending condolences to the family and friends of Sir Shridath on behalf of the Government and people of Barbados. The Prime Minister said too, “I can think of no other product of our region whose name was followed by more “letters” from more organisations and countries than Sir Shridath — all well deserved. Today, as we reflect on his passing, I am satisfied that the extent of his service to this region and the world for almost three-quarters of a century has irreversibly stamped his name in annals of Caribbean history.” Prime Minister Mottley noted that though Sir Shridath was born in Guyana, he left “a formidable footprint in virtually every nation of this region”. “He was schooled as a lawyer at Kings College, England and Harvard in the United States, was knighted in the United Kingdom and conferred with the highest national honours in New Zealand, Australia, India and South Africa. And he was one of the first persons to be awarded the Order of the Caribbean Community. Sir Shridath, the longest serving Commonwealth Secretary-General ever, also had the distinction of being Assistant Attorney General of the West Indies Federation and the admiration of late South African freedom fighter and president Nelson Mandela, for waging the fight against Apartheid on the global stage,” she said. Prime Minister Mottley said that the Region has produced many outstanding leaders in a multitude of areas “But there is a smaller group that stands at the pinnacle of Caribbean greatness, people whose lifetime of labour for the betterment of West Indian people has compelled us to view them, not by the country of their birth, but by their efforts to make us recognise and honour our oneness. Sir Shridath, that is how we shall remember you.” The Barbadian Prime Minister said she was most intrigued by Sir Shridath’s clarity and sharpness of mind when he participated in the 50th anniversary Conference of CARICOM heads in July last year, as well as in the discussions that led to the Argyle Declaration in St. Vincent and the Grenadines five months later. Related Similar Articles

Man dumps haversack with firearm, ammo, after seeing police Aug 31, 2024 News The lodged gun and ammunition …escapes on motorcycle Kaieteur News – Ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) early Friday morning discovered a suspected Glock 17 9mm pistol with serial number MAZ866 along with a fitted magazine in a haversack that was dumped in the Leopold Street, Georgetown area. Reports are that the haversack containing the gun and ammunition were dumped by a male who upon seeing the police sped away on a motorcycle. Police said that ranks were performing patrol duties in the Force’s motor vehicle PAC 5235 in the Brickdam Police Station District. Acting on information, the group on patrol went to Cross Street, in the vicinity of Leopold Street where they observed a male of African descent, dressed in dark clothing. The man reportedly had a black strapped bag across his shoulder and was perched on a black trip motorcycle. When the man saw the police, he reportedly threw the bag on the western side of the street and sped off south along Cross Street. The ranks searched the area and discovered the bag with the gun and ammunition. Upon ejecting the magazine two live 9mm rounds of ammunition were found. Checks were made for the suspect who is yet to be located. Investigations are ongoing. Related Similar Articles

Azruddin Mohamed donates to life-saving fund for woman with Saccular Aneurysm Aug 31, 2024 News Kaieteur News – Guyanese businessman Azruddin Mohamed on Thursday donated to a fund to assist in a life-saving surgery for Anjanie Singh of Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara (ECD) who was diagnosed with Saccular Aneurysm on May 1, 2024. Businessman Azruddin Mohamed and Anjanie Singh. Singh was forced to stop working due to the severe symptoms experienced including loss of appetite, vomiting, and persistent headaches. To have access to the necessary medical intervention, Singh, who is also the sole provider for her family, needs to source $7M since the surgery and treatment needed for her condition cannot be performed at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Since her diagnosis, Singh has been trying to source funds to have her surgery done at a private institution. However, despite her efforts, she was only able to secure quarter of what is required. After hearing of the woman’s plight, Mohamed was moved to make a significant donation to her cause. The businessman visited the woman’s home on Thursday where he made his contribution. He also called on corporate Guyana to contribute noting that even a small donation could make a difference in saving the woman’s life. To donate towards Singh’s surgery, please click the link https://gofund.me/17d4c298 or through MMG at 644-4484 Related Similar Articles

Pensioner struck by car dies while receiving treatment Aug 31, 2024 News Kaieteur News – A 76-year-old pensioner who was struck by a speeding motorcar on Thursday died while receiving treatment at the Leonora Cottage Hospital. The deceased has been identified as Eton Levans of Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE). Police in a statement said that the accident involved motorcar bearing registration number PPP 3346 that was driven by a 27-year-old from Zeelugt North, EBE and Levans, a pedestrian. Reports are the car was headed east along the northern side of the Public Road at a fast rate when the left front side of the car hit the pedestrian, who was crossing the road southward to northward. Levans fell to the ground after being hit and was picked up in an unconscious condition by the driver of the motorcar and rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital. He was examined by a doctor on duty and died while receiving medical attention. Levans’ body was taken to the Ezekiel Funeral Home for storage. A post-mortem examination is scheduled to be done. Related Similar Articles

GT Mayor refutes claim that Council’s new rate policy is to help clear billions owed by PNCR Aug 31, 2024 News – but provides no proof Kaieteur News – City Mayor Alfred Mentore assures that the new Institutional Rate Policy implemented by the City Council is not geared towards helping the Peoples National Congress Reform (PNCR) clear its debt to the Council. However, Mentore has been unable to provide evidence to support this. Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore In an invited comment the City Mayor said the financial information of the party is one which he is not at liberty to divulge. “It’s not for me to divulge such confidential info, but checking the records, there is no account in the name of the Peoples National Congress that speaks to it owing $6.7 billion dollars,” the Mayor said. The PNCR treasurer, Elson Lowe also shied away from clarifying whether the party has paid its taxes. He told Kaieteur News, “We’re not in the practice of putting the party’s financial information in the public domain.” This is even after the ruling People Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) posted a receipt on its social media platform clarifying that the party’s rates and taxes have been paid. Vice President (VP) Bharrat Jagdeo accused the Georgetown Mayor & City Council (M&CC) of introducing ‘Institutional Rate Policy’ with the sole purpose of helping the opposition party clear the billions of dollars it owes in back taxes. During a press conference on Wednesday, Jagdeo told reporters that his party’s Councillors have rejected the move because the reason for the tax reduction was to cushion the taxes owed by the opposition. “…We dug a bit deeper and it seems as though there is a specific reason for this proposal. Congress Place owes $6.7B, and a demand notice was sent to them for this money. So how do you get your rates and taxes for $6.7B…That is a huge sum so clearly, they have not been paying for a very long time and therefore the interest has accrued and therefore they now have to pay this huge sum of money,” the VP explained. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall had also criticised the Council’s move. During his weekly programme ‘Issues in the News’ on Tuesday evening, he described the decision as a “vulgar and shameless act,” “The Georgetown Mayor & City Council (M&CC) cannot even afford to pick up the garbage from the residents of Georgetown without a subvention from the government, they cannot repair their home which is the City Hall without a subvention from the government, they cannot discharge most of their duties without a subvention,” he said. Nandlall said the reduction or exemption of rates and taxes should be directed to the less fortunate instead of political parties. “Obviously the PNC and the AFC owe rates and taxes that they cannot afford to pay and they get their acolytes at City Hall to move a motion to write off their indebtedness and these people are seriously contesting to be the next government of this country and these people are talking about accountability and transparency and they’re getting their acolytes in there to write off their rates and taxes,” the Attorney General said. However, Mayor Mentore has defended the decision pointing out that M&CC is lawfully empowered to exempt political parties from paying rates. “We have a document that has classified political parties in existence for more than ten years as ‘social and welfare institutions,’ allowing them to be exempted from paying rates and taxes or at least reclassifying those rates to “institutional rates” under the Municipal and District Council’s Act,” Mentore explained. Notably, he said the Municipal and District Council Act, Section 214 states that: A Council shall have power to exempt from liability to pay rates either wholly or in part for any property used for the advancement of religion, education or social welfare, not with a view to profit. According to Mentore, the law also covers facility used for sports or healthy institutions while leaving the power to the Minister of Local Government to designate any other property for exemption. Meanwhile, on Friday, the PNCR chose not to address queries regarding the alleged $6.7 billion debt in rates and taxes owed to the Georgetown City Council for their Sophia headquarters, at the party’s weekly press conference. Neither PNCR’s Chairman Shurwayne Holder nor Treasurer Low responded to the question when asked. The party made it clear that the press conference will only address issues raised in the statement which was based on infrastructure and the Gas-to-Energy project. Related Similar Articles

Popular wine, jewellery manufacturers amongst five certified by GNBS in August Aug 31, 2024 News Proprietress of Flavour Me Spices, Itisha Primo poses with the GNBS Made in Guyana Certificate and Certified Products. Kaieteur News – The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) on Friday announced that five new local manufacturers were added to its certification programmes. This marks a significant step forward in the adoption of standards and the drive for quality in Guyana’s manufacturing sector. These certifications underscore the GNBS’ ongoing commitment to enhancing the competitiveness and marketability of Guyanese products locally, regionally and internationally. Of those newly certified, four manufacturers can now use the GNBS Approved Made in Guyana Standards Mark on their products, while under the GNBS Product Certification programme, one can now use the National Standards Mark on jewellery manufactured. Among the Made in Guyana certified businesses was AJ Signs & Propa GT Local Wines of Middle Walk, Buxton, East Coast Demerara (ECD). The business can now affix the prestigious mark on its Fruit Flavoured Wines – Red Silhouette, Bliss Night Nurse, Miss Addicted, The CEO, Is We Own, Mr. Fix Up and Tek Time. The certificate was presented to Proprietress, Abigale John by GNBS Executive Director, Trevor Bassoo who congratulated the business for joining the growing list of over 4o other businesses which have opted to take advantage of this certification. On August 29, Flavour Me Spices of John and Norton Streets, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown was given the green light to use the Made in Guyana mark on its grated garlic, grated ginger, ginger and garlic paste, garlic chili oil, assorted pickles, hot and spicy sauce and green seasoning. On August 30, Coconut Grove of Patentia Housing Scheme, West Bank Demerara was certified to use the Made in Guyana Mark on its Golden Crunch Coconut Biscuits. Earlier in August, Ashdel’s Enterprise of Paradise, East Coast Demerara was certified for its Instant Plantain Porridge (100g), Instant Beef Pepperpot (100g) and Instant Veggie Pepperpot (100g). The Made in Guyana Standards Mark is a registered mark that aims to provide recognition to locally manufactured products on the local and international markets and is a signature of quality for authentic Guyanese Products. Moreover, King’s Jewellery World, a leading name in the local jewellery industry, was certified under the GNBS Product Certification Programme for conforming to the requirements of the National Standard, GYS 50:2022 – Specification for Gold Articles. This certification strengthens the company’s dedication to quality and excellence. The GYS 50:2022 standard outlines the stringent requirements for the manufacturing, alloying, testing and labelling of gold articles made of 9-23 karat gold. Notably, the Bureau encourages other businesses to join its certification programmes using application forms available on the GNBS website: gnbsgy.org. To learn more, contact the GNBS on telephone numbers: 219-0064-66, the GNBS hotline: 219-0069 or WhatsApp: 692-4627. Related Similar Articles