Project 9INE

22/07/2024

GCCI demands independent investigation into corruption within Guyana Police Force

Project 9INE World News - The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has expressed grave concerns following recent revelations of extensive corruption and financial impropriety within the Guyana Police Force (GPF). The Chamber is calling for an immediate and independent investigation to address these alarming issues.

The GCCI's stance stems from the critical role the GPF plays in upholding and enforcing the laws of Guyana. The Chamber highlighted that it is particularly distressing that those entrusted with maintaining law and order are allegedly involved in such malpractices. This situation not only undermines the credibility and objectivity of the GPF but also raises significant concerns about the integrity of the nation's law enforcement.

"The agents of the state responsible for maintaining stability and lawfulness must be beyond reproach," the GCCI stated. "If they are engaged in malfeasance, they can no longer be trusted to uphold the standards they are supposed to enforce."

The GCCI emphasized that the Guyana Police Force must not operate with impunity. The Chamber insisted that the members of the Force should be held to a higher degree of accountability given their position of power and responsibility. The GCCI warned that failure to address these issues could be perceived as condoning corruption, potentially leading to a broader descent into lawlessness.

To ensure transparency and objectivity, the GCCI called for an independent investigation, separate from the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), which is an arm of the GPF. The Chamber argued that an internal investigation by the SOCU could compromise the integrity of the findings, given its affiliation with the GPF.

“These circumstances are abhorrent and untenable,” the GCCI declared. “It is imperative that this matter is dealt with swiftly and decisively. Those found culpable must face the full extent of the law.”

The GCCI's call to action underscores the urgent need for reform within the GPF to restore public trust and ensure the enforcement of law and order in Guyana. The Chamber's demands highlight the importance of accountability and transparency in maintaining the integrity of the nation's law enforcement agencies.

21/07/2024

The President's Dairy

Broadcast for July 20-07-2024

21/07/2024

Weekly Digest

Broadcast for July 20-07-2024

19/07/2024

VP Jagdeo: easier access to markets could lower produce prices

Project 9INE World News - Easier access to markets for fruits and vegetables can help alleviate the high prices consumers face at selling points across the country. This perspective was shared by the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during his weekly press conference at Freedom House on Thursday.

Dr. Jagdeo was responding to a question about the impact of transporters hiking prices, which ultimately affects consumers purchasing items from community markets nationwide. He emphasized the role of efficient transportation and better organization among farmers in cutting out middlemen, which could help reduce costs for consumers.

"On the middlemen, I think if you have better transportation and faster transportation, and the farmers are better organized, they can cut out the middlemen," the General Secretary said.

Dr. Jagdeo also pointed out instances of political interference that restrict farmers from selling directly at city markets. "I’ve spoken to farmers from across the river who normally come to Georgetown to sell and the City Council runs them out because they want bribes and harasses them all the time. But they come directly with their produce, so their prices would be minus the margin that their middlemen would give them…we are trying to assist them," he noted.

To enhance market access, the government has been ramping up infrastructure with the construction of farm-to-market access roads. In 2022, hundreds of farmers began to benefit from a high-quality road at Number 58 Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). This road not only created better access but also opened up some 50,000 acres of prime farmlands, presenting more opportunities for farmers in the region.

More recently, farmers in the Barima-Waini region witnessed the commissioning of a $44.1 million farm-to-market road. This road, which spanned 10 kilometers, connected the villages Arukamai, Wauna, Kamwatta, and White Water to the Kumaka Market, allowing farmers to sell their produce directly there.

Further infrastructural developments include a $175 million road on the right bank of the Mahaicony Creek in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and another farm-to-market road worth $150 million on the left bank of the Mahaica Creek, Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), which are nearing completion.

However, Dr. Jagdeo stressed that farmers must also receive a fair share for their hard work in the fields. "Farmers also have to increase their income. Somehow people have this belief that we can raise all the salaries for everyone but the farmers who work in the fields, they have to keep their prices constant and cheap…as though they must take the hit every time," he explained.

To support farmers, the government is co-investing with the private sector to ensure a guaranteed market for their produce. This is evident in the recent co-investment with UMAMI’s new processing facility in Black Bush Polder.

These initiatives are part of the government’s broader agenda to transform the local agriculture sector, ensuring that Guyana becomes self-sustainable and contributes to the regional goal of reducing the food import bill by 25% by 2025.

19/07/2024

Guyana’s economic policies protected against worst global effects of inflation, cost of living crisis – VP Dr. Jagdeo

Project 9INE World News - In a world grappling with an escalating cost of living crisis, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), underscores how the Guyanese government’s direct economic policies are shielding its citizens from the worst effects. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo highlighted the stark contrast between Guyana's approach and the struggles faced by major economies like the United States.

Dr. Jagdeo noted the significant price surges in household essentials, including food, utilities, mortgages, and fuel in the US and other major countries. Guyana, while not immune to similar pressures, has implemented direct interventions to mitigate these effects.

“Despite all of that, we have had some government policy interventions…last week I spoke of us removing the 50 per cent excise tax, equivalent to $81 billion, on only two items: diesel and gas,” he informed reporters.

Guyana's economy, though smaller than the US, is experiencing rapid growth, often leading to economic overheating and increased inflation. Dr. Jagdeo emphasised the importance of the government's measures, such as decreased taxes and subsidies, in alleviating the financial burden on its citizens.

“Contrary to what is occurring in developed countries, the rates for electricity and water consumption have not increased since 2020, owing to the absorption of fuel costs by the government for the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI),” he noted.

In addition to these measures, supplementary financing of nearly US$70 million will be sought later this year to prevent an increase in electricity prices by subsidizing fuel costs.

One of the notable interventions is in the housing sector. Mortgage rates have decreased, providing affordable financing for new low-income families. In 2023, the low-income mortgage ceiling increased to $20 million from $15 million, despite the global rise in interest rates.

Moreover, the government is injecting $10 billion annually into a part-time job program, particularly benefiting women and single parents. This program has recently expanded to hinterland areas, creating more opportunities for gainful employment.

Farmers, a critical component of the Guyanese economy, are receiving substantial support to offset the cost of fertilizers. In 2023, $850 million was allocated for this purpose. As a result, around 60,000 individuals are now gainfully employed in both the private and public sectors, contributing millions in disposable income to the economy.

Dr. Jagdeo stressed that the PPP/C administration has a well-defined plan to tackle the cost of living crisis, emphasizing that no country is immune to this global phenomenon. He highlighted the government’s efforts to maintain stable costs for essential services, despite the challenging economic climate.

“You should appreciate what the government has done. In four years, especially with two years lost to COVID…and with all the inflationary pressures affecting a big country like the US…we in Guyana, because of direct government policy interventions, have kept some of the most substantial areas in the cost of living increases, we have kept them away from our people,” he stated.

The government’s annual fiscal plan is designed to navigate global economic challenges, with a focus on improving the livelihoods of Guyanese and building resilience across various sectors. The proactive measures and policies implemented by the government are not only providing immediate relief but are also laying the foundation for sustained economic stability and growth.

In conclusion, Dr. Jagdeo’s message is clear: the government’s strategic interventions are crucial in shielding Guyanese citizens from the severe impacts of the global cost-of-living crisis. By maintaining stable prices for essential services and supporting key economic sectors, Guyana is setting an example of resilience and effective governance in the face of global economic challenges.

18/07/2024

Government seeks equality in Marriage Laws with historic Reform Bill

Project 9INE World News - The Government has moved to the National Assembly to reform the country’s marriage laws to provide both husbands and wives with equal rights.

The Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, S.C., said under the proposed legislation – the Matrimonial Causes (Amendment) Bill 2024 – the Government hopes to remove existing discriminatory provisions, so as to bring the law into conformity with certain fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

Under the Principal Act, a Court may order that a husband must pay maintenance or alimony to his wife upon the dissolution of their marriage, but the High Court recently found this provision to be discriminatory based on the grounds of s*x, gender, and equality.

The Attorney General said the Bill seeks to address this anomaly in a legislation that is over 100 years old.

“There were many, many rights which women did not have a hundred years ago, that women have now, and as a result, they were certain facilities that men couldn’t enjoy that would be considered offensive now, where you have equality of gender and the right to equal treatment irrespective of gender, race, religion, class, stature, etc. So, in an environment where equal treatment is now a guaranteed fundamental right, you cannot have unequal treatment. And throughout this legislation, women were treated differently from men, and men treated differently from women. And throughout the Act, we have now changed that wherever we found this inequality of gender and we have now changed the language to ensure that there is gender equality and equal treatment,” the Attorney General explained.

The Bill also proposes to amend other provisions of the Principal Act and specific sections in the Summary Jurisdiction (Magistrates) Act, which only provide for maintenance and protection of the property of a wife.

If passed by the National Assembly, it will also see the removal of any provision relating to restitution of conjugal rights – a concept the Attorney General said is not only outdated but has been abolished in many countries.

“In our Matrimonial Clauses Act there is something called restoration of conjugal rights. What that means is that if there is a break in conjugal rights or a breakdown in conjugal, meaning parties living together, and they have a dispute and they become estranged, one of those parties could approach the court and get a court order directing a restoration of those relations. It didn’t matter that the two persons can’t live together anymore, that the marriage has broken down irretrievably and that there is a great fracture in the relationship and that there are irreconcilable differences, one party could have gone to the court, in particular the husband to get an order to make the wife come back,” the Attorney General explained.

He said while such provisions may have been legally, socially, and culturally acceptable more than a hundred years ago, they are no longer applicable or acceptable. Minister Nandlall said the laws now provide for a husband to be charged for ra**ng his wife.

“Currently, a husband can be charged for ra**ng his wife, that didn’t exist a hundred years ago, so, essentially, when a court is directing the restoration of conjugal rights, the court is also authorizing that man to have s*xual relationship with that woman, even though the woman may not be consenting. Today, that is r**e but that is still within our law,” he explained.

The Government is hoping to secure the support of the Opposition in passing the Bill, which is seen as long overdue.

The proposed legislation was laid before the National Assembly during its last sitting on July 8, 2024.

18/07/2024

VP Jagdeo vows unbiased probe into Guyana police corruption allegations amid public outcry

Project 9INE World News - Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has assured the public that investigations into corruption allegations within the Guyana Police Force, including those against Assistant Police Commissioner, Calvin Brutus, will be free from internal and external influence. Speaking at a news conference held at his party’s Freedom House headquarters this afternoon, Dr. Jagdeo underscored the government's commitment to thoroughly addressing these serious allegations, which pose a threat to the integrity and image of the Force.

The Vice President’s remarks come in the wake of recent statements by Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn, who sharply criticised the top brass of the Police Force and raised concerns about alleged procurement fraud within the Force. Minister Benn emphasized that the government is not prepared to tolerate any form of corruption within its ranks, noting that complaints against senior officers have been increasing.

Dr. Jagdeo confirmed that the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) will be tasked with investigating the complaints and allegations, stressing that the process will remain uncompromised. “And I can assure you, there will be no pressure by anyone in the police force, because the President himself is looking into this matter and all these matters. There will be no pressure by anyone internally, to alter the course of this investigation or any other investigation of malpractice anywhere in the country or in the police force,” the Vice President stated.

Calls have been made, particularly from the political Opposition, for an external investigation into the operations of the force and its senior officers. However, Vice President Jagdeo today reiterated that SOCU is well-equipped to handle such investigations and will be leading the charge. “In this case, we got SOCU to do it, that was set up by the law to do that in relation to Brutus. There are allegations of corruption against Brutus, he is on leave and SOCU has been ordered to do the investigation by the government,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

While expressing the government's firm stance on corruption, Dr. Jagdeo also urged caution in dealing with the issue, emphasizing that the entire police force should not be condemned due to the misconduct of a few. He stated, “But having said that, we don’t want to vilify policemen too, because somehow people believe that it is an open season on policemen. A lot of them do a great job and they are hardworking people serving this country, and we must not, for the purpose of politics or ratings, vilify people in the police force.”

Dr. Jagdeo further highlighted that the concerns raised by the Home Affairs Minister about procurement fraud within the Force are being taken very seriously by the government. He reiterated that any officer found guilty of wrongdoing will be held accountable, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to transparency and integrity within the Police Force.

The Vice President’s commitment to an impartial investigation aims to restore public trust and ensure that justice is served, reinforcing the message that corruption at any level will not be tolerated in Guyana.

12/07/2024

PPP Government takes action to curb living costs and boost economic growth amid regional challenges

Project 9INE World News - The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has launched a series of impactful measures to combat the rising cost of living in Guyana, resulting in the country's inflation rates remaining below the regional average, even amidst a rapidly growing economy.

General Secretary of the PPP, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has highlighted significant initiatives, including the annual absorption of fuel and water charges and fuel subsidisation costs for the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Incorporated. These interventions have led to major relief for citizens, with a notable $80 billion waiver in fuel costs due to a 50 percent excise tax cut. This measure alone has saved citizens from bearing an additional $500 per gallon of diesel or gasoline, making it substantially more affordable to own and operate vehicles or run businesses reliant on fuel.

At a recent press conference, Dr. Jagdeo emphasized that these measures are crucial in preventing higher fuel prices for citizens. "Every citizen who owns a car or runs a business would have had to pay $500 more per gallon of diesel or gasoline," he explained. This policy is part of a broader strategy to keep essential living costs manageable, even as global prices for fuel and other commodities rise.

To further mitigate rising electricity costs, the government is seeking supplementary financing of nearly US$70 million. This funding aims to prevent an increase in electricity prices by subsidizing fuel costs for the state-owned utility company. Dr. Jagdeo noted, "If we don’t do that, what will happen? They’ll have to increase their electricity prices to cover that increase in fuel costs that they have to import." This proactive approach ensures that households and businesses are shielded from sudden spikes in electricity costs, promoting economic stability and predictability.

In the water sector, the government has managed to reduce water rates by five percent since 2020, despite significant cost increases in the sector. This means individuals are now paying less than they were four years ago, a rare achievement in the current global economic climate. Additionally, substantial investments totaling $200 million are being made to build water treatment plants nationwide, aimed at improving access and quality of water services.

In addition to reducing utility costs, the government has significantly increased public servant wages by $90 billion. This wage increase represents a substantial growth in earnings for these employees, enhancing their purchasing power and contributing to overall economic stability. Pensioners have also benefitted from increased disposable income with a $20 billion boost provided by the government. This increase ensures that retired citizens maintain a decent standard of living despite rising costs.

Further support includes a $10 billion annual allocation for the part-time job program, which benefits women and single parents, with recent expansions in hinterland areas. Currently, 15,000 persons are employed through this initiative, providing a crucial source of income and employment in regions that need it most. This program not only supports families but also stimulates local economies by increasing spending power.

The government is also assisting farmers by offsetting fertilizer costs, which have risen significantly. This initiative helps to reduce production costs and increase farmers' disposable income, ensuring that consumers are not burdened with higher food prices. By supporting the agricultural sector, the government aims to stabilize food prices and enhance food security for all citizens.

Despite facing criticism, Dr. Jagdeo asserted that the government is proactively addressing economic challenges and increasing disposable income for citizens. He contrasted the current government's efforts with the previous administration's approach, which imposed around 100 taxes on the population. “They see an issue that people complain about, so they jump on it opportunistically, vulture-like. Without conveying to the people all that is being done elsewhere,” he stated. He added, “A lot of the countries have not dealt with it in a manner that we have dealt with. With empathy and with a clear-cut vision as to how to tackle it and to make sure that we keep increasing disposable income, but we observe some of the costs that people would have to face to the treasury. They don’t even see it.”

The government’s policies have also led to the creation of approximately 60,000 jobs in both the public and private sectors. This job creation is critical in reducing unemployment rates and fostering economic growth. These jobs span various industries, providing diverse opportunities for the workforce and contributing to a robust economy.

Looking ahead, the government has allocated $7 billion in the 2024 national budget for further interventions after extensive consultations with key stakeholders. These planned measures aim to continue the trend of economic stability and growth, addressing emerging challenges and ensuring the well-being of all citizens.

Since 2020, the government has injected over $200 billion into the economy through various strategic measures. These initiatives are designed to address immediate needs while laying a strong foundation for sustainable economic development. Each annual budget has been carefully crafted to navigate challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and global economic fluctuations, with a focus on prioritizing the well-being of households and building resilience across different sectors. By balancing immediate relief with long-term growth strategies, the PPP/C Government is committed to fostering a stable and prosperous future for Guyana.

28/06/2024

Watch live: First presidential debate: Hosted by CNN

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump face off at their first 2024 presidential debate tonight. Tune in as NBC News previews the potential talking points from each candidate.

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump face off at their first 2024 presidential debate tonight. Tune in as NBC News previews the potential ta...

24/05/2024

VP Jagdeo criticises Opposition for lack of constructive policy-making

Project 9INE World News - Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP/C), has strongly condemned the APNU+AFC+PNC opposition for failing to provide constructive criticism on key national priorities. Speaking at his weekly press conference at Freedom House on Thursday, Dr. Jagdeo expressed disappointment in the opposition's approach to policy-making.

“It is a tragedy for our country that we have this sort of mediocrity when it comes to policy-making from the opposition. And it doesn’t lend itself to debate that is productive and that will move public policy forward,” Dr. Jagdeo lamented.

He criticised the Opposition for their empty rhetoric, stating that their statements lack substance and fail to offer tangible solutions to the issues they identify. As an example, he referenced the recent call by Opposition Member of Parliament, Roysdale Forde, for an in-depth review of the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA).

The fiscal terms of the PSA dictate that Guyana receives two percent of all petroleum produced and sold as royalty, with a 75 percent cost recovery ceiling. Dr. Jagdeo highlighted the irony of Forde's demand, noting that the opposition had signed the contract during their time in government and now displayed a clear misunderstanding of its complexities.

VP Jagdeo emphasised that while the 2016 PSA terms are not ideal, the government respects contract sanctity and will not renegotiate the terms. Instead, the administration is focused on future contracts and better management of the oil industry through informed and strategic approaches, including the introduction of a new model PSA and the Petroleum Activities Act.

He warned that the Opposition’s misleading narratives could distort public perception of the government’s policies. “This constant campaign to mislead, and giving people facts that are not really facts. This is what APNU has thrived on for a very long time,” VP Jagdeo concluded.

24/05/2024

Jagdeo's stern warning: zero tolerance for corrupt Procurement Officers

Project 9INE World News - Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo issued a stern warning on Thursday, declaring that procurement officers engaging in corrupt practices will face severe legal consequences. Speaking at his weekly news conference at Freedom House, Jagdeo emphasized that personal excuses, such as family obligations or political affiliations, will not be considered as a defense.

VP Jagdeo made it clear that the government is taking a firm stance against corruption, particularly within the procurement process. "If you have been engaged in these practices and you get caught, don’t come and later complain about having kids or a party card or belonging to a party," he asserted. This message was directed at all levels of government and public institutions, including public corporations, statutory bodies, ministries, regional authorities, and the National Tender Board.

The Vice President revealed that recent reviews have uncovered numerous instances of corruption, prompting the government to undertake a comprehensive examination of procurement procedures. "We are currently examining procedures for compliance and also activities for compliance with the laws," Jagdeo said. "And let me make it clear if we find that those officers are skirting the provisions of the law, the procurement law, then there shall be consequences for them."

Dr. Jagdeo highlighted specific issues plaguing the procurement system, such as bid manipulation and delayed payments. "People win a bid and then try to change the specifications after the bid has been awarded," he noted. Additionally, he condemned the practice of withholding payments for completed work, stating that some accounting officers and clerks deliberately delay processing payments. "People have to run there ten times, they’ve completed the work, they have to run 10-15 times to get money for work that they already did," VP Jagdeo stressed.

In response to these issues, the government is committed to strengthening systems to enhance transparency and accountability. Jagdeo pointed to Guyana's robust anti-corruption framework, which includes adherence to several international conventions. These include the Inter-American Convention against Corruption (IACAC), the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), the Lima Commitment, the UNGASS Political Declaration on Corruption, and the CELAC Working Group on Preventing and Combating Corruption.

Guyana’s adherence to these conventions involves rigorous reporting and monitoring mechanisms. Under the IACAC, Guyana participates in the Follow-up Mechanism (MESICIC), which monitors the implementation of anti-corruption measures. Similarly, the UNCAC, the only legally binding universal anti-corruption instrument, has seen Guyana complete two reporting cycles: Cycle 1 (2010-2015) covering criminalization, law enforcement, and international cooperation, and Cycle 2 (2015-2020) covering preventive measures and asset recovery.

VP Jagdeo’s warning is a clear signal that the government is serious about tackling corruption at all levels. The Vice President’s tough stance underscores a broader commitment to uphold integrity within public service and ensure that procurement processes are conducted fairly and transparently. This move is part of a larger effort to restore public trust and ensure that resources are managed effectively and ethically for the benefit of all Guyanese.

The message is unequivocal those who engage in corrupt practices will be held accountable, and the government will take all necessary steps to enforce compliance with the law. As Guyana continues to navigate its development, maintaining a transparent and accountable procurement system is critical to ensuring sustainable growth and equitable distribution of resources.

24/05/2024

Dr. Jagdeo calls out APNU/AFC for undermining national unity with Race-Baiting tactics

Project 9INE World News - In a recent press conference, General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) delivered a scathing critique of the APNU/AFC Opposition, accusing them of perpetuating a divisive 'victim mentality' among Afro-Guyanese communities. Dr. Jagdeo's remarks shed light on the opposition's concerted efforts to detract from the positive developments underway in Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) while stoking racial tensions for political gain.

The focal point of Dr. Jagdeo's address was the upcoming 58th Independence Anniversary celebrations slated to take place in Linden, a township historically significant to Guyana's cultural and political landscape. Despite the government's intention to foster unity and patriotism by bringing the festivities to Linden, the Opposition has cynically framed the event as a mere 'publicity stunt.' Dr. Jagdeo dismissed these claims as baseless and emphasized the importance of celebrating Guyana's diversity and national identity.

Moreover, Dr. Jagdeo highlighted the opposition's pattern of race-baiting and misinformation regarding development initiatives in Region Ten. He refuted allegations of stalled projects, such as the construction of a synthetic track, by providing evidence of the government's ongoing investments in infrastructure and community development. From FIFA-compliant lights to housing projects and vocational training programs, Dr. Jagdeo outlined the significant investments being made to uplift the residents of Linden and surrounding areas.

Addressing accusations of discriminatory practices in land allocation, Dr. Jagdeo underscored the government's commitment to equitable distribution of resources, including housing lots and support for athletes. He emphasized that the government's initiatives benefit all Guyanese, irrespective of ethnicity, and condemned the Opposition's attempts to sow division and resentment.

Furthermore, Dr. Jagdeo drew attention to the broader implications of the Opposition's race-baiting tactics, warning against the dangers of fostering a 'victim mentality' among Afro-Guyanese communities. By highlighting selective grievances while ignoring tangible progress, the Opposition seeks to undermine national unity and perpetuate divisive narratives for political expediency.

In conclusion, Dr. Jagdeo urged Guyanese citizens to reject the politics of division and embrace a shared vision of progress and inclusivity. He called upon the Opposition to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to divisive tactics that undermine the nation's unity and progress. As Guyana continues its journey towards development and prosperity, Dr. Jagdeo affirmed the PPP's unwavering commitment to fostering unity and inclusivity for all Guyanese, regardless of race or creed.