October 25th, 2024

Fact of the day

The Amazon Rainforest, spanning over 5.5 million square kilometers, and often called the "lungs of the Earth," produces around 20% of the world’s oxygen through photosynthesis and plays a key role in regulating the global climate.. The rainforest is home to 10% of all known species on Earth, including jaguars, sloths, and Amazon river dolphins, making it one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

In addition to its ecological importance, the Amazon influences the global water cycle. Through evapotranspiration, it generates moisture that affects weather patterns across South America and beyond. The Amazon River, the largest by water volume, accounts for 20% of the world’s freshwater entering the oceans.

Despite its critical role, the Amazon faces threats from deforestation, illegal logging, and climate change. Deforestation for agriculture and ranching is a significant concern, potentially turning the rainforest from a carbon sink into a source of CO2, exacerbating global warming. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect this vital ecosystem, but the balance between economic pressures and environmental protection remains delicate.

Jokes of the day

1. An old lady walked into a pet store, found a parrot, and asked the owner if she could buy it. The owner said, "Heck no! That parrot has a bad mouth! Trust me - you do not want that parrot!" She said, "I can teach it good manners." But, when she got home the parrot said a bad word, so she put it in the freezer for 10 seconds. She took it out and said, "Did you learn your lesson?" It said another bad word so she put it back in for 30 seconds. She took it out and asked if it learned its lesson yet. The parrot said "Brr... Yes, I learned my lesson, but, what did the chicken do?"

2. A man walks into a bar and says, "Give me a beer before the problems start!" He drinks the beer and then orders another saying, "Give me a beer before the problems start!" The bartender looks confused. This goes on for a while, and after the fifth beer the bartender is totally confused and asks the man, "When are you going to pay for these beers?" The man answers, "Now the problems start!"

   
   

Politics

Retroactive Salary Increases and $100K Cash Grant for Public Servants, New App to Streamline Distribution

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo confirmed that public servants will receive retroactive salary increases alongside the government’s one-off $100,000 cash grant, aimed at providing immediate financial relief to all Guyanese adults. The salary increases will be retroactive to January 2024. Teachers are already benefiting from a 10% raise, with additional increases of 8% in 2025 and 9% in 2026, as part of a multiyear agreement. These measures reflect the government’s commitment to balancing short-term financial support with long-term salary growth.

In addition to the salary increases, Jagdeo announced the development of a new app designed to streamline the distribution of the $100,000 cash grant. The app, currently in the testing phase, will require citizens to input personal information and geolocation data for verification. Most grants will be distributed via cheque, with oversight from the Auditor’s General office to prevent corruption. The process is expected to take five months, and Guyanese living abroad will need to collect the grant in person within Guyana.

Pensioners with NIS Issues to Receive Lump Sum Payments

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo confirmed that some pensioners, who have faced issues with the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), will receive lump sum payments. A $10 billion injection has been earmarked to assist pensioners who contributed but failed to meet the 750-contribution requirement due to employer misconduct. Jagdeo said the government is finalizing a fair distribution model, ensuring that those affected will soon receive their payments. The funds are also intended to stabilize NIS, which has been struggling financially.

Guyana and Singapore Strengthen Partnership in High-Level Talks

During the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, President Dr. Irfaan Ali of Guyana and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong of Singapore discussed key areas for strengthening their partnership. The talks focused on carbon markets, low-carbon development, biodiversity, and private sector collaboration. Both countries are leaders in carbon markets and are committed to enhancing cooperation in sustainable urban development. Guyana plans to lead a Global Biodiversity Alliance, and the leaders also explored expanding collaborations in sectors like oil and gas, using Guyana as a base for regional expansion. The meeting highlighted the shared commitment to economic growth and environmental sustainability.

 Crime and Security

Brutus and Associates Charged in Major Corruption Scandal

Deputy Commissioner (ag) Calvin Brutus, once regarded as a respected officer after a 25-year career in the Guyana Police Force (GPF), now faces severe scrutiny. Brutus, along with his wife, driver, and a businessman, has been charged with financial crimes totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. The case centers around allegations of misuse of GPF funds during his leadership between December 2023 and July 2024.

Brutus appeared in Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, facing 30 charges, including misconduct in public office, larceny, money laundering, and conspiracy. He is accused of orchestrating schemes to defraud the GPF, including issuing cheques totaling $73 million from the GPF Central Welfare Fund, intended for repairs and equipment, and diverting the funds into his personal accounts. His bail was set at GYD $6.2 million.

Brutus' pregnant wife, Adonika Aulder, was charged with laundering $473 million through businesses registered in her name. She was granted bail totaling $1 million but must surrender her passport. His driver, Kevin George, and businessman Asif Zafarally, face conspiracy charges for allegedly collaborating with Brutus to obtain $93 million in false payments for goods that were never supplied to the GPF.

The scale of the alleged corruption is vast, with the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) investigating financial crimes amounting to $800 million. This includes $300 million in assets and properties and $500 million in frozen bank accounts. SOCU is expected to file an additional 200 charges in the coming weeks.

The charges against Brutus reveal a disturbing pattern of systemic abuse, including his alleged involvement in directing subordinate officers to prepare fraudulent payment vouchers and embezzle funds. These activities have severely tarnished the reputation of the GPF, with the public now questioning the integrity of the institution’s leadership.

Brutus also faces two money laundering charges, including a payment of $85 million for a property in Georgetown, and $20 million for another property in Pouderoyen, both believed to be purchased with proceeds of crime.

The ramifications of this scandal go beyond Brutus himself, highlighting potential weaknesses in GPF’s financial oversight and raising concerns about internal corruption. The legal battle is set to resume on November 18 and 21, as the once-admired officer confronts the possibility of over 200 additional charges.

This case underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to address corruption and hold public officials accountable. SOCU’s investigation, along with guidance from the Director of Public Prosecutions, marks a significant push for transparency and justice within the GPF.

Nineteen-Year-Old Killed in Motorcycle Accident

A 19-year-old, Tevin Griffith, tragically lost his life on Tuesday night after losing control of his motorcycle along Nelson Mandela Avenue. The accident occurred around 8:48 PM. Griffith, who was speeding and lying flat on his motorcycle, was thrown onto the roadway, suffering multiple injuries. Emergency Medical Technicians arrived quickly but could not save him, and Dr. Kellman pronounced him dead at the scene. Authorities are investigating, noting that neither Griffith nor the other riders were wearing helmets.

Eighteen-Year-Old Motorcyclist Dies in Essequibo Coast Accident

Eighteen-year-old Uwayne Freeman died on Tuesday night after losing control of his motorcycle and crashing into a utility pole on the Mainstay access road. Freeman was riding with Alexander Gomes, who suffered a fractured foot in the accident. Emergency responders transported both men to Suddie Public Hospital, where Freeman was pronounced dead. Authorities are investigating, and Freeman’s body is awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Three Arrested in Firearms Seizure During Anti-Crime Patrol

Law enforcement officers arrested three men during a late-night patrol on D’Urban Street after discovering firearms in their vehicle. At approximately 11:30 PM, police stopped a silver Toyota Allion with three occupants—Neagus Lamonzon, Randolph Norton, and Jamal Hazel—and found a Smith and Wesson pistol with 13 rounds and a Glock pistol with 18 rounds. None of the men had firearm licenses. The suspects were arrested and remain in custody as authorities continue the investigation.

Driver Maimed in Acid Attack in Bartica

Police in Bartica are investigating an acid attack that left 38-year-old Jermaine Thornhill with severe burns. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning after a disagreement between Thornhill and Wayne Johnson during a birthday celebration. Thornhill asked Johnson to leave his home, but Johnson returned minutes later and threw acid on him. Thornhill suffered burns to his back and hands and is being treated at Bartica Regional Hospital. Police are seeking Johnson and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Fire Destroys Part of Rockville Apartments in Bartica

A fire broke out early Wednesday morning at Rockville Apartments in Bartica, severely damaging Room 7 and causing $700,000 in losses. The room was home to artist Jarrinson Viloria Garcia and his partner, Mayra Narvaez Blanco. Firefighters responded quickly and managed to control the blaze, but the couple’s belongings, including a television and air conditioning unit, were destroyed. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and the building was uninsured.

Nandlall Encourages Public to Share Legal Concerns for Reform

Attorney General Anil Nandlall urged citizens, legal professionals, and the judiciary to voice their concerns to support meaningful legal reforms. He highlighted the importance of addressing issues like housing disputes, workplace rights, and access to legal aid to improve the justice system. Recent reforms, including updates to the Domestic Violence Act and the introduction of no-fault divorce, show the government’s commitment to societal needs. Nandlall also plans to review outdated laws, such as the Rent Restriction Act, to better reflect modern realities and ensure legal frameworks are up to date.

Sentencing Guidelines for Similar Offences Near Completion

Attorney General Anil Nandlall highlighted the urgent need for consistent sentencing guidelines, addressing disparities in sentences for similar offences. Nandlall pointed out that people charged with the same crimes often receive vastly different punishments, undermining confidence in the legal system. The upcoming guidelines, aimed at providing judges and magistrates with clear sentencing principles, will promote uniformity and transparency in judicial decisions. The guidelines are currently with the judiciary and are expected to be finalized soon, offering much-needed reforms to ensure fairness in the legal system.

Business and Economy

New ‘AJ’ Series for Motor Vehicle Registration Begins

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has started registering motor vehicles under the new “AJ” series, following the conclusion of the “AH” series in October. The registration process requires submission of key documents, including a completed vehicle registration form, payment receipt, and identification. Registration fees range from $750 for motorcycles to $1,500 for motor cars. Vehicles with engines smaller than 2000cc are exempt from physical examinations, but accuracy in declared details is required. Non-compliance can result in penalties. For more information, visit the GRA website.

Health and Education

Two Women Over Sixty Achieve Academic Success at University of Guyana

Jean Hanoman and Franka Thomas, both over sixty, are graduating with distinction from the University of Guyana in 2024. Jean earned a degree in International Relations, and Franka in Public Management. Despite societal expectations, both women pursued education as a statement against age barriers and gender inequality. Jean, in her mid-sixties, was inspired by the struggles of past generations of women, while Franka, a mother of four and school dropout, overcame personal loss to continue her studies. Their resilience and perseverance stand as a testament to the transformative power of education.

PM Calls for Increased Cybersecurity and AI Training for Guyanese

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips emphasized the need for more Guyanese to receive training in cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (AI) during a technology conference organized by DynamIQ. Speaking at the event in Georgetown, Phillips stressed the importance of equipping the population with skills to protect against emerging threats and to encourage innovation in the tech space. He also noted that the government is committed to strengthening cybersecurity measures to safeguard national security and economic stability.

Sports

ExxonMobil Guyana Futsal Tournament Kicks Off Friday

The ExxonMobil Guyana Futsal Tournament, organized by New Era Entertainment, will begin on October 25 at the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden. Twenty teams will compete over several weekends, culminating in a final on November 23. The tournament, a staple of Linden’s sports calendar, promotes youth development and community engagement. Last year’s final drew a packed crowd, showcasing the region’s athletic talent. The winning team will receive GYD $1 million, while second, third, and fourth place finishers will receive $500,000, $200,000, and $100,000, respectively. The Most Valuable Player will be awarded a motorcycle, adding excitement to the competition.

Republic Bank and Petra Organisation Launch U-18 School Football League

Republic Bank Guyana and Petra Organisation have partnered to launch the fifth edition of the Under-18 School Football League, aimed at promoting youth development through sports. The league, set to begin on October 27, will feature top secondary schools, including Chase Academic Foundation and Bartica Secondary, competing for cash prizes ranging from $50,000 to $300,000. These funds will support school projects. The top two teams will advance to an international tournament featuring teams from Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. Organisers highlighted the importance of sports in teaching life skills like teamwork and discipline.