Guyana_Chronicle-Epaper_04_03_2020

FRIDAY 3rd April, 2020

No. 105959

12hr curfew on entertainment spots PAGE

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… President says COVID-19 task force’s ‘national response’ for the disease completed – Ocean View Hotel, Cliff Anderson Sports Hall converted to isolation facilities

GECOM to

decide on way forward today

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Oil revenues can be tapped for COVID-19 ‘emergency situation’ … says TT economist who helped design Guyana’s NRF

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Desperate attempt

Guyana Post Office Corporation staff, with sanitisers in hand, waiting to attend to customers, during business hours on Thursday (Delano Williams photo)

to tarnish gov’t, BK … transaction for Kingston property acquisition started under PPP

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

Desperate attempt to tarnish gov’t, BK

… transaction for Kingston property acquisition started under PPP

By Lisa Hamilton KNOWN critics of the government have been called out for seeking to create controversy, where none such exists, in the recent transfer of property by the Government to BK Marine Inc., owned by Brian Tiwari.

An Order gazetted on March 28, 2020, made its rounds on Facebook, and, later, in the media where the government was accused of selling prime waterfront property to BK, on February 26, just days before the March 2, General and Regional Elections. The Order was signed by Finance Minister Winston Jordan and saw the title of the immovable property of National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL)

lots 1 and 2, Cummingsburg, Georgetown; Lot ‘F’, a portion of Mudlot 3; and Lots ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘D’ portions of North Cummingsburg, Georgetown.

The likes of Attorney-at-Law, Christopher Ram, called for an investigation to be launched into same and the Order was shared by a People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Facebook page alleging illegality on the government’s part.

Owner of BK Group of companies, Brian Tiwari which amounts to 2.553 acres of land being transferred to BK Marine Inc. The land includes: Mud-

BY THE BOOKS In a release on Thursday, NICIL denied involvement in any shady deal and labelled reports suggesting otherwise as “absurd and crass”. The release stated that the See page 5

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

12hr curfew on entertainment spots … President says COVID-19 task force’s ‘national response’ for the disease completed –– Ocean View Hotel, Cliff Anderson Sports Hall converted to isolation facilities IN an effort to curtail the spread of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), President David Granger has imposed a curfew for public gathering at places of entertainment, including bars, clubs, gymnasiums, night clubs, restaurants and swimming pools, between 06:00 hours and 18:00 hours.

President Granger, in making the announcement on Thursday, said the curfew will take effect from midnight, on Friday, April 3, 2020. He said additional restrictions to safeguard public health will be announced, from time to time, as the needs arise.

In his address to the nation, the President said the Government of Guyana continues to work assiduously to combat the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am happy that many individuals, institutions, religious organisations and business enterprises, of their own accord, have initiated action to protect citizens and prevent the spread of this disease,” said President Granger, who, prior to this address, had addressed the nation on two occasions since the start of the pandemic and had detailed several new policies and measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.

The president commended persons who have so far contributed to the fight against the coronavirus by installing handwashing basins or through other valuable donations.

Speaking more about this, President Granger said: “This is as it should be; fighting the pandemic requires the continuous, collective action of all citizens and the entire country.”

In this regard, he reminded the nation that the extraordinary issue of the Official Gazette, published on March 16, 2020, aims at protecting the health and safety of all Guyanese and empowers the Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, to take certain actions which are already in force.

As part of those efforts, the Ministry of Public Health, together with the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), has been engaged in mobilising medical staff and marshalling the resources

and equipment needed to fight this disease.

Additionally, the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) was operationalised with effect from March 31, 2020; and the activation of the NEOC is aimed at ensuring the highest level of collaboration among stakeholders, and to further prevent the spread, enhance preparation and strengthen national response to the disease.

Another initiative geared at promoting stakeholder engagement was the establishment of the National COVID-19 Task Force, which is headed by Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, and includes the Attorney General and Ministers of Public Health, Public Security, Finance, Foreign Affairs, Education, Communities, Public Infrastructure, Natural Resources and Citizenship.

The task force has since completed a national response to the disease and the measures outlined in the response will take effect from Friday, said President Granger.

ONE THOUSAND PERSONS Meanwhile, national quarantine and isolation facilities have already been established at the West Demerara Regional Hospital; the (East Bank Demerara) Diamond Diagnostic Centre; the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation; the (Timehri) Madewini Youth Centre; the (East Coast Demerara) Ocean View International Hotel; the Cliff Anderson Sports Centre and the National Gymnasium. These facilities collectively will be able to accommodate one thousand persons.

“I iterate the need for all citizens, in all parts of the country, to adopt the many advisories that have been issued by the Ministry of Public Health and the National Task Force,” said President Granger.

Among those advisories are the avoidance of leaving home; avoidance of gatherings of more than five persons; avoidance of visiting sick persons; avoidance of touching other persons; avoidance of touching parts

of your own faces; and washing of hands frequently and thoroughly using soap and water.

The adherence to these advisories is necessary because the COVID-19 is a global pandemic for which there is no vaccination or cure. At the individual level certain measures are absolutely necessary to reduce the spread of this disease.

“It is now clear that several other measures must be put in place to keep the public safe. The ‘National Response’ to the Coronavirus 2019 has been crafted and a draft has been disseminated,” said President Granger.

The objectives of the response, as outlined by the president, are to protect the health and safety of the Guyanese people; protect vulnerable persons in special-care homes and shelters; prevent community spread to local and hinterland areas; reduce or mitigate the spread in affected areas; restrict or halt imported cases into the country; and restrict and contain the spread of the disease in heavily-populated areas.

Additional objectives include ensuring that there is on-the-job safety for all medical and technical staff; reinforcement of measures to mitigate the social and economic impact on the livelihood of vulnerable persons; and coordination of the efforts of civic and non-governmental organisations.

Several measures aimed at limiting social contact are already in force and these include the closure of the University of Guyana (UG) campuses and other schools; the postponement of the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA); and the closure of the Cheddi Jagan and the Eugene F. Correia International airports until May 2020.

Other measures include the closure of seaports to international vessels except merchant ships; suspension of travel, to countries which border Guyana.

Additionally, public servants have been placed on a rotational shift system of duty; the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has waived the Value Added Tax (VAT) on medical supplies associated with the testing, prevention and treatment of COVID-19; and visitation at

the Palms Geriatric Home, the Night Shelter, New Opportunity Corps, and the Hugo Chavez Rehabilitation and Reintegration Centre has been suspended until further notice.

The measures that have already been implemented will remain in place until further notice, said President Granger.

NOT ALONE In light of the increasing number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Guyana, and the number of projected cases, a meeting was held with partners from international and non-governmental organisations to coordinate the planning of mitigative and preventative actions against the short- and longterm impacts of the virus on all sectors of the country. Guyana is not alone in fighting this pandemic, said President Granger.

Guyana has so far recorded 19 cases of COVID-19 with four deaths. A number of persons remain in isolation, home quarantine and institutional quarantine, as health authorities continue to monitor the national and global situation.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a newly

discovered coronavirus.

WHO said most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. Older persons and those with underlying medical problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.

WHO believes that the best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about the virus, the disease it causes and how it spreads.

“Protect yourself and others from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol-based rub frequently and not touching your face. The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose

President David Granger when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it’s important that you also practise respiratory etiquette (for example, by coughing into a flexed elbow),” WHO advised.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

US says has no preference for election winner

DISTANCING the United States (US) from allegations of “foreign interference” in Guyana elections, US Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch said on Thursday that the US does not hold preference for which political party should legitimately win the elections as it stands ready to continue its bilateral relations none the less.

“I will close by sharing an apparently well-kept secret: The United States Government is entirely non-partisan about which party wins Guyana’s 2020 elections.

The major parties – and the smaller ones too – all offer the opportunity to continue an excellent bilateral relationship based on a shared commitment to supporting improved governance, prosperity, and security in Guyana. Let’s get on with that important work,” Lynch said in a release to the media.

She noted that during the politically-charged election cycle, US diplomats have been “quite properly” very vocal about the local situation and this has led to a common criticism of diplomatic statements. The Ambassador said, however, that she and other US diplomats must speak as such is in keeping with Wednesday, April 3, 01:30hrs - 03:00hrs

foreign policy, the Constitution of the United States and the Guyanese Constitution.

The US and other Western countries have been accused of meddling in the elections.

Commissioners of the Guyana Elections Commission have complained that at one of their meetings the Canadian High Commissioner barged in without invitation. Diplomats have also been seen heavily involved in GECOM tabulation exercise and have made a number of statements regarding the elections outcome and how the tabulation of the votes should be done.

But Lynch in a statement said: “In foreign policy, the difference between meddling and practising good diplomacy is that the latter involves sticking to bedrock principles of human rights, good governance, and transparency and, whenever possible, underscoring the values that bind the country you represent to the country in which you serve. Quite properly, there has been a lot of attention by U.S. diplomats to Guyana’s 2020 election day and events after it. In this context, silence breaks an oath I took. In serious and soaring language, I swore to ‘bear true faith and allegiance’ to the Constitution of the United States, and it is

in that document where these bedrock principles stand solidly for me. Indeed, 11 of the 27 amendments to the U.S. Constitution address voting rights, electoral issues, or matters of succession by our representatives.”

She added that the international extension of these principles is present in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948 and Article 3 of the Charter of The Organization of American States which speak to the “exercise of representative democracy.”

The US Ambassador noted Guyana’s own words on the Venezuela crisis in which it stated that the country’s electoral proves “lacked legitimacy” as it had neither the participation of all political actors, presence of independent international observers or the compliance with international standards for a free, fair and transparent election. “Such statements are not foreign interference, they amount to good diplomacy by members of the hemisphere’s democratic club. My hope and expectation is that Guyana maintains its good standing as a member of this club by counting all the election day votes through a transparent and credible process. Guyana is certainly not Venezuela;

US Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch let’s keep it that way,” Lynch stated.

She added: “Some have criticised the U.S. Government for speaking out, suggesting we would do better to get our own house in order.

To that I respond, democracy, or rule by the people, is almost always noisy. The democratic cacophony is home to our competing values and political identities in the public square. At its heart, democracy is the expression of our freedom to be represented.

As such, each adult citizen must have one vote and each vote must have one value.”

NFA urges GECOM to abide by the law THE National Front Alliance (NFA), a party amongst the governing coalition, has called on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to abide by the law by declaring the final results of the elections.

The party has also cautioned the Commission to safeguard itself from being steered into illegality by the political “power-hungry”. In a letter to the media, the NFA stated that the 2020 General and Regional Elections, based on Regional results already declared by all Returning Officers (ROs), show that the coalition government has won the elections.

For the Commission to now act in any way besides making its overall declaration --in light of recent court rulings -- would be gross disregard for the law, according to the NFA. “The Guyanese nation has

been held to ransom for one month over the declaration of the winner of our General Elections, by forces who believe that whatever they stipulate without regard for the law must be the standard by which we must abide. The elections are over, the APNU + AFC coalition has won the battle to keep Guyana on a democratic and peaceful path. The coalition has obeyed the Constitution and has stood resolutely in the face of the machinations of the local and external detractors who cannot deal with their defeat,” their release stated.

“The NFA, a party in the coalition, demands that the Chairperson and Commissioners obey the law and declare the APNU + AFC the winner of the elections. To do otherwise would be illegal as the CEO of GECOM has already declared the winner. Therefore, all claims for a

recount is not provided for once his declaration has been made.

Such a claim must be rejected.”

The seven-member Commission is currently engaged in a meeting at its High and Cowan Streets office where the way forward is to be determined based on the examination of the ruling of the full court.

The NFA posited that since the break down in the tabulation process of Statement of Polls (SOPs) belonging to Region Four, when the figures pointed to the APNU+AFC as the winner, some opposing politicians have been relentlessly disregarding the rule of law.

The party also stated that attacks have come to the President and the APNU+AFC which, through it all, have been abiding by the Constitution and law. The coalition member said that the most recent attack has been made to GECOM and

it appears as if these opposing politicians “expect all Guyana to accept their disregard for the law and act according to their dictates” However, the NFA stated: “Their latest assault is on GECOM with the expectation that the Chairperson and the Commissioners must bent to their will and circumvent the law to satisfy the power-hungry hoard that seek to usurp the place of the legal winner of these elections…to seek to accommodate detractors infamous for breaking down doors would be a travesty to justice and decency.

They must be told that an Election Petition to the court is the legal and only way to go. This nation can ill afford to engage in the politics of appeasement at the expense of principles and regard for the law.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

Desperate attempt ...

From page 2

vested to NICIL via Order No. 43 of 2003 and 42 of 2003.

On December 4, 2006, a lease was entered between NICIL and BK International Company Inc. for 20 years, with an option to purchase the property for $110,000,000.

The option to purchase was dependent on the Lessee obtaining approval from the Mayor and City Council for its intended construction works. NICIL said that this agreement was signed by former Head of NICIL, Winston Brassington and BK Inc. and witnessed by Marcia Nadir Sharma.

On November 19, 2009, BK Inc. exercised its option to purchase and ceased paying rent but NICIL rejected the offer to purchase. Years later, in June 2013, a legal action was instituted against BK International Company Inc. for rental arrears and accrued interest. The matter engaged the attention of the Court from 2013 to 2017 and sometime during 2017, BK Inc submitted an amended offer.

In August 2017, the matter was set down by the court pending settlement, and, in October 2017, NICIL made a counter offer to BK Inc. that included the original purchase price, all outstanding rent, and 50 per cent of the accrued interest. BK Inc. accepted the counter offer.

Then, in November 2017, NICIL submitted to Cabinet, a request for approval for transfer by sale. However, NICIL was informed that an objection was raised by the Ministry of Public Infrastruc-

ture on behalf of Transport and Harbours Department and, as a result, Cabinet’s approval was deferred.

In October 2019, NICIL received approval, following which the Vesting Order was prepared, signed and gazetted.

Speaking briefly on the matter on Thursday, Minister Jordan confirmed that said matter was before Cabinet over two years ago and Tiwari is under the agreement of a lease which gives him the right to exercise a purchase should he so desire.

“He has the lease and the lease gives him the option to purchase and he tried to exercise his options and we had been investigating that,” Jordan said. The minister believes that no matter the time that the transfer was made, whether before or after the elections, the Opposition would have made it its duty to raise contention.

However, he made it clear that Tiwari did not receive any favours from the government as the said agreement began under the PPP/C and represents a fair transaction.

I WAITED FOR YEARS Contacted on the matter, Tiwari, on Thursday, told the Guyana Chronicle that BK has been pursuing the transfer for over 12 years.

“This thing wasn’t done with this government. This thing was done since in the days of the PPP. It was a tender and the tender clearly says what you had to do and we complied with whatever

Correspondence between Tiwari and former Minister of Finance and Chair of NICIL Board, Dr. Ashni Singh, on a loan approval from the Bank

we had to do and we were waiting all the time for the transfer; that’s all,” he said.

He said the agreement involved was a Rental-Purchase Agreement for which three persons submitted tenders --inclusive of late realtor, Tony Reid. However, Reid died and the other person could not come up with the money so he won the tender and entered into the agreement on December 4, 2006. The agreement was signed between Tiwari and former Executive Director of NICIL, Winston Brassington. It detailed the requirements needed to be met before one became eligible to purchase the property.

Tiwari said these requirements were fulfilled but the agreement also mandated that a letter from a bank proving that one had the finances to purchase the property and that was provided. However, Tiwari was denied the purchase and possession of the property, took the matter to court and was ordered to pay the sum of $22M to be eligible for the purchase. Even though these payments were made, Tiwari said he was still denied ownership of the property. In 2017, a further agreement was signed with NICIL for the purchase of the property.

He said, even so, he had to wait years to see the realization of the transfer. Asked what he believed was the reason behind that, he stated: “That’s how the PPP operates. If they want to keep you behind the bars, they put you behind the bars; that’s how the PPP do it. You either be with them or you’re not for them.”

Recounting the years, he said that himself, Former Private Sector Commission (PSC) President, Edward Boyer, and businessman and close friend of Jagdeo, Bobby Ramroop had applied to the government for land but he was the only one who faced challenges.

“The PPP hold this thing back from me,” he said.

“The two got their transport and they shocked me out. I didn’t get but the two get; Bobby Ramroop and Eddie Boyer.”

INTENTIONAL DELAYS Adding this position to the matter was former Trade Union Representative to the then Privatisation Board (PB), Lincoln Lewis.

In a public statement Lewis said he was in representation at the time of the bids for the property and what the government has done is merely complete a transaction intentionally stalled by the PPP government.

He said that Brassington had recommended at the meeting that a company registered at Phagoo Store in Regent Street, which had no track record with any business, be given the property

Proof of some of the payments made in 2014 provided by Tiwari in question. Lewis objected on the grounds that BK’s proposal was superior and satisfied the requirements demanded by PPP/C government. The entire PPP/C-appointed Board eventually agreed with the Trade Unionist who hadn’t known Tiwari at the time.

“What is instructive about the PPP is that that government took time in making sure the final and legal transfer of these properties were never brought to finality. The reason behind this behaviour, is that if for any reason whenever one wants to approach the bank or third party to be involved in any business it will require permission from the government to do so. As such, if the person to whom the property is given should take a position that conflicts with the government, the owner will never be able to get the support or comfort to do any business with a bank or third party,” Lincoln said.

He added: “What the coalition government has done is complete what the PPP government startedbut for whatever reason failed to do- in moving to give legal transfer to the owner.”

Correspondence between former Minister of Finance and Chair of NICIL Board, Dr. Ashni Singh and Brian Tiwari in 2011 regarding the property

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

In praise of our healthcare workers CONCERNED citizens have been disappointed to hear of recent discrimination against members of the healthcare profession, since Guyana confirmed its first case of COVID-19 on March 11, 2020.

Since then, this publication has spoken with members of the healthcare profession regarding the treatment that has been meted out to them by some members of the public, some private sector businesses, public transportation operators and most disappointingly, another member of the key services sector, a policeman.

Like other key service sector workers, members of the healthcare profession are often underpaid, underappreciated and overworked. The recent COVID-19 outbreak in Guyana has now firmly put into perspective the importance of the work of healthcare professionals and the sacrifices that they make in order to keep us alive and healthy.

Worldwide, as millions of people stay at home to minimise transmission of the disease, healthcare workers prepare to do the exact opposite. They will go to clinics and hospitals, putting themselves at high risk from COVID-2019. Figures from

China’s National Health Commission show that more than 3300 health-care workers have been infected as of early March. In Italy, 20% of responding healthcare workers was infected, and some have died. Reports from medical staff describe physical and mental exhaustion, the torment of difficult triage decisions, and the pain of losing patients and colleagues, all in addition to the infection risk.

As the pandemic accelerates, access to personal protective equipment (PPE) for health workers is a key concern. Medical staffs are prioritised in many countries, but PPE shortages have been described in the most affected facilities. Some medical staff is waiting for equipment while already seeing patients, who may be infected, being supplied with equipment that might not meet the requirements. Alongside concerns for their personal safety, healthcare workers are anxious about passing on the infection to their families.

Health-care workers, who care for elderly patients or young children, will be drastically affected by school closures, social distancing policies, and disruption in the availability of food and other essentials.

In many developing nations, the healthcare system is often fragile, under-funded and incapable of responding to large scale crisis such as the present COVID-19 global pandemic. Healthcare professionals are on the frontlines of any human crisis: wars, famine, disease, etc, while risking their lives because they have a genuine desire to help people overcome whatever ailment, accident or disease they are currently battling to overcome. They take care of us when we are unable to do so ourselves, oftentimes in incredibly adverse, life or death circumstances. They help us when we are at our most vulnerable and in need. They are often confronted by death on a daily basis and are expected to maintain their professionalism in the face of distress.

Healthcare workers and professionals’ families are also deeply affected by their work. The irregular and extended working hours make family life difficult.

The personal sacrifice of one’s own health and wellbeing is often made by many healthcare professionals who experience physical and psychological problems because of the nature of their jobs. During this current pandemic, some nations have

taken the step to separate healthcare workers from their families whilst they battle to fight the spread of COVID-19 and to treat those who have already been infected by the virus, including many frontline healthcare workers. Whilst the separation of a parent or spouse might be difficult for most, in times such as these, it might be even more overwhelming for concerned family members and their children.

Healthcare workers do not earn great sums of money, especially if we consider the importance of the role that they play in our society and their contribution to maintaining our collective health and wellbeing as a nation. We must stand with them in solidarity to demand better working conditions, compensation and career outcomes. During the current COVID-19 pandemic, we have sadly lost a number of healthcare professionals throughout the world. We cannot allow their lives to be lost in vein and without proper recognition for the sacrifices that they have made.

Their contribution to combating COVID-19 cannot be forgotten nor should it be overlooked. We must stand in gratitude and praise of our healthcare professionals.

Madam Ambassador we know ‘Guyana Time for GECOM chair to is not Venezuela,’ hence we are act decisively and declare rejecting any form of outside interference the elections results Dear Editor, I write to respond to what appear more of a Campaign speech than a diplomatic release by the United States Ambassador to Guyana.

As I read this piece of mischief, I feel it for my country more than anything else- editor, I submit this simple question, what have we become as a nation?

The Ambassador ended her piece of writing by stating that the United States Government has no interest in who wins Guyana’s elections. I must have missed something. The local diplomatic community, in particular, the United States Ambassador took a position as of March 03, the day after our elections- I don’t need to repeat that here. Then we saw a barrage of ‘tweets’ coming from several U.S officials, those who hold high offices and the bottom feeders alike.

What the gentle lady failed to mention in her writing is that the task of diplomacy is to follow, promote and maintain international relations, to eliminate and settle misunderstandings and problems which have arisen in relations between subjects and international law and international relations in general.

What the U.S Ambassador and her colleagues

have been doing here in Guyana since the conclusion of our elections is simply gas lightingand as a people we will not accept that- not then, not now.

Editor, a few days after the elections, the Western Diplomats issued a statement claiming they have evidence of electoral fraud. We are yet to see those “Evidence”, but I will tell you what those evidence are- the bogus Statements of Polls (SOPs) given to them by the Opposition People’s Progressive Party. I am prepared to apologise publicly if they prove me wrong. The question remains- whose side are they on?

The U.S. Ambassador did not mention why she was named as a contact person in Guyana for Mercury Public Affairs, the Company PPP hired to do it’s hit job, maybe, it was lapsus calami on her part.

Madam, we read your threats and we are not afraid, but just in case you believe we are, in the event you awake from the slumber, and on your own behalf, I adjure you, in this delicate time in our country’s history, it is better for “outside forces” to stay calm and not throw a conniption.

Respectfully, Shawn A. Austin

Dear Editor, As a concerned citizen, I am compelled to express my dissatisfaction with the slothfulness with which the GECOM has been discharging its responsibilities in relation to the March 2nd General and Regional Elections.

From all available accounts I am convinced that enough legal and moral avenues have been accommodated by the Coalition Party which I am are aware has convincingly won the elections. Therefore, it is time that the matter be put to rest by the GECOM which is a legal, independent constitutional body established for the delivery of credible elections in this country.

I am fully cognizant that there are certain individuals and groups in our society who have no interest in the sustained peace, harmony and progress which our “Republic” has experienced during the past five years and as a consequence they have invented various mischievous and empty schemes to prolong the current stalemate which descended upon one month ago.

However, the APNU + AFC is interested in progress and Human Development for the benefit of all Guyanese.

In the circumstances therefore, I hereby call on the Honorable Chairman to use her good office and put this matter to rest by ensuring that an official declaration of the election results is made now.

The Chief Elections Officer has already declared the APNU + AFC the winner of the elections much to the disappointment of the enemies of Democracy.

They have launched a sustained smear campaign and character assignation on His Excellency Mr. David Granger who has thus far demonstrated statesman’s-ship of a very high order but also acted in conformity with and obeyed the Constitution and related Election Laws of our country.

Madam ‘Chair’ the time has come for you to act decisively and ensure that the election results are declared now.

We can wait no longer.

Yours truly, Patrick Haynes, Chapel Street Lodge

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

Guyana must take a stand in defence of its sovereignty and principle

Dear Editor,

GUYANA is a civilized and modern nation that is governed by a constitution and laws like any other in the family of nations.

I reiterate, that Guyana is not a banana republic that will bend to the wishes and desires of different sectors as it suits their interest. All authority on the management and decision making over elections are governed by an independent constitutional commission the Guyana Elections Commission.

The constitution vests all power over the entire registration and elections processes to the said commission, therefore the commission is completely independent and insulated from any outside interference. As in all jurisdictions, the Supreme Court is the only arm of the state with vested authority to inquire into and alter the work of the Commission to ensure that all of it’s actions align with the constitution and laws of Guyana. No political party, so called ‘observer group’, private organization, foreign powers, or organization of states and countries have any right to dictate to GECOM how the elections should be managed. Guyana is a sovereign nation, and issues of national debate and concern must be solved by the Guyanese people through the framework of our constitution and laws.

To do otherwise is to invite our country on a

grand march to institutional chaos.

It is therefore very alarming that the PPP and their fellow hacks and travelers are urging the commission and pressuring the Chair to disregard the judicial process, and proceed with a recount just because ‘they seh so.’ It is unbelievable and downright ridiculous to hear the Commonwealth, CARICOM, OAS, Britain, United States, and Canada say that the only way the elections can be valid is if a recount is done. Show me that requirement in the laws of Guyana! The Returning Officers all made legal declarations with no evidence of malpractice presented. Further, the actions of the Region Four declaration were subject to judicial scrutiny and the tabulation was redone in strict compliance with the order of the Chief Justice as prayed for by the PPP. The constitution provides that anyone who feels that the elections do not represent the will of the people must file an election petition, and the actions of GECOM will be examined through that judicial process.

This is known to the PPP, whose corrupt victory in the 1997 elections was overturned by the Supreme Court through an election petition. When the PPP was awarded a seat from Region Ten that belonged to the AFC based on inaccurate calculations, the then Chief Elections Officer said that can only be addressed through an election petition. Sam

Hinds squatted on that seat for the entire term of the PPP’s governance, even though the numbers showed that the seat belonged to the AFC. Again, Guyana is a modern nation; we do not make up laws as we go along.

Now that the court has decided that matters of concern about the elections process must be determined through an elections petition, it is now up to the commission to determine the way forward according to the law. It is interesting to hear the PPP and their hacks now saying that the Chairman of the Commission committed to a recount.

That’s a downright lie. The Chairman in her affidavit stated that the Commission can do a recount if it deems it necessary. The election results were declared according to the laws of Guyana and anyone challenging it must do that through the established judicial process. The PPP only hails the court processes when it suits their purpose. There is no issue to debate and deliberate on, the commission must now follow procedures and make a declaration.

The actions of the PPP choir members should not surprise anyone though. All that is playing out is a well-orchestrated plan to deny the APNU/AFC coalition their victory to foist Jagdeo and cohorts back on Guyana.

Guyana’s black gold has really aroused the appetites of western business oligarchs and

they are insistent on getting the most corrupt and controllable into office. How else can you explain a known fact that the PPP paid a notorious international lobbying company 34 million US dollars to get them back into office? Where did that money come from, and who is ensuring that the PPP gets into office to collect what they are owed? There are published documents that allege the same company arranged meetings between the PPP and powerful officials in the US government and local embassy officials. These are documented and recorded facts, that show there are serious international interests in seeing the back of the APNU/AFC. How else can you explain with all the files and intelligence the United States, Canada, OAS and Britain have on death squads, drug running, murder of their own minister, and excessive thievery they are still backing the PPP? Guyana must take a stand in defence of its sovereignty and principle. We should die on our feet rather than live on our knees.

The very existence of Guyana as a civilized and modern state is at risk if we fail to honor and respect our dignified sovereignty and act in accordance with the constitution and laws of our country.

Yours truly Jerrick Rutherford

The same principle that applied for the GRB wharf was applied for Duke Lodge Dear Editor, REFERENCE is being made to Kaieteur News’ article “Kingston Wharf purchased by BK days before election” (2nd April 2020).

Some years ago, I was the trade union representative on the Privatisation Board- the only black person- when the property in question was put up by the Bharrat Jagdeo government for sale. That property which is located in Water Street was the former Guyana Rice Board (GRB) wharf which was burnt down through questionable circumstance during the life of the PPP government.

Among the bids for that property was one from BK International. Winston Brassington, Executive Director of NICIL, recommended at the meeting the property would be best given to a Company he was proposing which was registered at Phagoo Store in Regent Street. The proposed company had no track record with any business. I objected!

I objected because I looked at the proposal of that company, BK International and others, and found BK’s proposal to be superior, satisfying the many requirements demanded by the PPP/C government. In as much as Brassington represented the company registered at Phagoo, the CAGI representative and Consumer representative on the Board supported my justification for BK to be given the property. The entire Board, appointed by the PPP/C government, agreed we will recommend to Cabinet the property will go to BK. Let me make it very clear, I never knew Brian Tiwari at the time, but met him subsequently at the funeral of Mr. Christiani Lewis, the original owner of Waterchris.

What is instructive is that the PPP government took time in making sure the final and legal transfer of this and some other properties were never brought to finality. The reason behind this behaviour, is one of control over the intended

Leasee/owner. So if for any reason said person / persons or company wants to approach the bank or third party to be involved in any business it will require permission from the government to do so. As such, if the person to whom the property is given should take a position that conflicts with the government the owner will never be able to get the support or comfort to do any business with a bank or third party because the government can exercise

leverage to keep the party in check.

The property has been in the possession of Brian Tiwari and for all intended purposes was intended for transfer. The coalition government has done what the PPP initiated but failed to complete for whatever reason. This is a final and legal transfer to the owner. The same principle that applied for the GRB wharf was applied for the BIDCO house which was also transferred to Capt. Gerry Gouveia,

currently Chairman of the Private Sector Commission.

Said property situated in Duke Street Kingston is now converted into a business called Duke Lodge.

This is not a simple case of disposal of state asset for if it is so then both governments would be held responsible and have questionable intent in starting this deal and/or completing it. In my opinion the completion of the transfer of the GRB wharf is just that, a completion of one deal that started

under a government and which another government has taken the responsibility to execute. The timing unfortunately like everything in Guyana right now, given the climate, is an opportunity for political advantage.

If in the presence of the worst pandemic in years COVID-19 response and support is used for political ends what else must we in Guyana expect.

Regards Lincoln Lewis

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

GECOM, tackling COVID-19 needs President David Granger

Dear Editor,

GUYANESE in the twenty-first century have witnessed many of the world’s most fascinating and life altering phenomena, from smartphones, smart televisions, refrigerators with special features, self-parking cars, Google, Facebook,

WhatsApp, etc.The technological advancements has change the way we communicate with each other, how we cultivate our food, administer healthcare, develop our infrastructure and many other things too numerous to mention.

The world has witnessed the rise and fall of great

men, brutish dictators overthrown by murderous mobs and in our country we have witnessed questionable characters who were elevated to positions of God-like and unchallenged leadership who were simply given positions to the interests of their marionnettiste.

Despite all those amazing occurrences, one of

the world’s most attention grabbing phenomena is the novel coronavirus, commonly known as COVID19.

The outbreak of this very contagious and deadly virus has reached over 180 countries and territories around the globe. Over 921,000 people around the world have been infected and it continues to rise with

each passing minute. The number of deaths thus far has risen to 46000 persons worldwide and 192000 with potential for more have recovered from the coronavirus.This virus is the most vicious, dangerous and deadly enemy of the 21st century. No nation state, irrespective of its vast military might, is its formidable opponent.

This virus is presently the most dangerous threat to humanity. If not contained and eliminated, millions of people all over the world will succumb. We have witnessed the unmanageable fatalities especially in China and Italy.

The secretary-general of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, told the meeting of the G20 countries ( a group of countries with the biggest economies in the world, responsible for more than 80% of the world’s wealth), “We are at war with a virus and not winning”. I Jermaine Figueira repeat “Not WInning!”

The data is both interesting and frightening, which reflects that the highest fatalities are from the most industrialized, economically and technologically advanced nations. The reality is Mr. Editor, if the virus systematically impacts poorer countries who are not advanced, hence third world and developing nations, the fatalities will be incomparably unprecedented.

The harsh reality is that millions of people’s lives in these countries are at risk because the healthcare systems of third world countries are not capable of deal with or addressing this clear and present danger that is upon us.

Regardless of our political affiliation, religion, gender or whichever strata of society that we belong: this virus is our common enemy. This virus can be transmitted and has so far been defeating most natural interventions. Our faith is still strong and resolute that a miracle will come.

As we wait, the government is working, trying it’s best to do what it can, knowing much more is required. But to some extent they are handicap, due to the insurmountable political shenanigans of a power craving by the desperate Bharat Jagdeo-led opposition, who refuse to accept the will of the people, despite the fact that two

declarations were made by the Guyana Elections Commission.

Guyana and its people have waited for far too long, the courts have ruled and placed the mandate back in the hands of Gecom to complete its work of making the final declaration of the already tabulated and declared results of all ten electoral districts. The law mandates that any desire for a recount, regardless of how honorable and noble the intent is, the law is paramount and pellucid.

Such has to be done by way of an election petition. No one should invent processes contrary to the law in the name of good intentions.

As the nation tries to prepare with grossly limited resources to combat this imminent threat to our lives and existence, we call on the hard working and dedicated staff of Gecom to complete its constitutional mandate and declare the already known Victor. The PPP lost the 2011 elections as they were a minority government, they lost in 2015 and they lost again in 2020.

Covid19 urgently requires budgetary allocation so that we can stop the spread of the virus and help those who are in need of resources. A robust national campaign against this virus is urgently needed, along with a disciplined people who will adhere to all public advisory form the Ministry of Health. We are currently asking persons to stay at home but this is a difficult task as there is no budgetary allocation to provide stimulus for those persons who are self or privately employed.

We are well aware that the virus will not survive if it does not have a host, hence by stopping the spread of its domination and we will be able to save lives. Gecom must with urgency wrap up this month-old elections process, declare David Arthur Granger as the obvious winner and entertain any other complaint through an elections petition; as we must with most urgency bring this country to a complete shut down for a short period of time to prevent the spread of COVID19.

Regards Jermaine Figueira.

GECOM to decide on way forward today

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 3, 2020

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By Svetlana Marshall WILL the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) order a National Recount? That decision would be determined today, when the Commission, chaired by Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, meets to chart the way forward with the anticipation of bringing an end to the electoral process, which has been protracted for more than a month.

When the Commission met on Thursday at its High and Cowan Streets Office, the Chair iterated her commitment made to the High Court to have a National Recount facilitated but this was met with recommendations, from the Government nominated-Commissioners, that legal guidance be sought ahead of any decision. Commissioner Charles Corbin is expected to submit a report on legal guidance received on the topic of a national recount at this stage of the elections.

Thursday’s meeting was the first since the Full Court ruled on March 31 that a Judicial Review of the decisions of the Elections Commission is not possible at this stage of the electoral process, and any challenge must be brought by way of an Elections Petition following the declaration of the results.

A private citizen, Ulita Moore, had filed legal proceedings to block GECOM’s decision to facilitate a national recount, on the grounds that the Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield has already compiled his report, and a President of Guyana should be declared.

During the meeting, Justice (Ret’d) Singh reminded the Commissioners of the legal ramifications that currently face the Commission. “…Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission, Justice Claudette Singh provided a brief background on the Court proceedings and explained that the contempt matter brought against her has not concluded but has been shelved due to her giving an undertaking to conduct a full national recount of all votes cast in the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections at the level of the

Chairman of GECOM Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh

Commissioner Vincent Alexander

Commissioner Charles Corbin

Commissioner Sase Gunraj

Commissioner Robeson Benn

Commissioner Desmond Trotman

Commission,” GECOM’s Public Relations Officer, Yolanda Ward explained in a statement.

Against that background, the Chair asked the Commission to discuss the possibility of the recount but within the framework of the Constitution and the Electoral Laws of the country. In the early stages of the meeting, Opposition nominated-Commissioner Robeson Benn moved a motion calling for a recount but subsequently withdrew it based on the contention that GECOM had already taken a decision to so do. “[The] Opposition nominated Commissioners expressed the view that the Commission did approve to have a recount supervised by CARICOM and that there is nothing that precludes the Commission from moving ahead in this regard now that the Court has paved the way for GECOM to finalize its deliberation to operationalise the recount,” Ward explained.

While President David Granger and the Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo have signed an Aide Memoire for a high-level Caribbean Community (CARICOM) team to supervise a recount of ballots in the 10 Electoral Districts, the country’s Chief Parliamentary

Counsel, Charles Fung-a-Fatt, had advised the such an arrangement would be in contravention of the Constitution of Guyana and the Representation of the People Act. The Full Court, however, in dismissing the case brought by Moore, said there are provisions within the Constitution and Sections 22 of the Elections Law (Amendment) Act of 2000 for the Elections Commission to one, facilitate credible elections and two, address any difficult that may arise. Several difficulties have arisen since the March 2 Elections resulting in a significant delay in the delivery of the results.

“It is within this context, one would expect GECOM to step in and take charge of the situation.

Article 162 (1) (b)…gives wide powers to GECOM to ensure an impartial and fair elections process. Section 22 of Act No. 15 of 2000 merely supplements or provides one of many mechanisms for ensuring that there is compliance with Article 162 in this regard,” Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire reasoned as she handed down the ruling in the Full Court.

Section 22 states: “If any difficulty arises in connection with the application of this Act, the Representation of the People Act or the National Registration

Act or any relevant subsidiary legislation, the Commission shall, by order, make any provision, including the amendment of the said legislation, that appears to the Commission to be necessary or expedient for removing the difficulty; and any such order may modify any of the said legislation in respect of any particular matter or occasion so far as may appear to the Commission to be necessary or expedient for removing the difficulty.”

The decision of the Full Court is now being challenged at the Court of Appeal.

In addition to recommending that the Elections Commission seek legal guidance as it decides on its next step, Government nominated Commissioner Vincent Alexander tabled a motion for the Commission to await the completion of the legal proceedings and consider the report of the Chief Elections Officer on the results of the Elections.

But the Chair of GECOM again reminded the Commissioners of the legal challenges filed against the Commission.

“Justice Singh explained that she would be unable to allow the CEO to present his report at this point in time since a contempt motion brought by the People’s Progressive Party restrains her

Commissioner Bibi Shadick

from so doing. In relation to this matter, she had given an undertaking to the Court to facilitate a recount at the level of the Commission,” Ward reported.

But while Ward reported that the motion was not allowed, Commissioners Sase Gunraj and Vincent Alexander told reporters, upon the conclusion of the meeting, that the motion was put to a vote, and it was voted down – 4-3.

“The question of whether we should not wait on the present legal proceedings before we proceed was brought by way of motion, and that motion was disposed of negatively by a 4-3 vote,” Commissioner Alexander told reporters outside of GECOM’s office, moments after the meeting concluded.

Asked what the reason behind the motion was, Alexander, in response, said “if one looks at the procedural elements of the things, there really is no impediment to that report being table.” Further to that, he referenced to commitment by the Chair of GECOM to await the completion of the legal proceedings before taking any action. Nonetheless, Alexander said he would vote in favour of a national recount in accordance with the CARICOM initiative.

Commissioner Gunraj also expressed support for a national recount. “As we speak, I believe that everyone recognizes that a recount has to or ought to be conducted. There is discussion about the legality or whether we can do that. It is my position is that we can,” he told reporters outside of GECOM’s head office.

The meeting of the Commission will reconvene today at 10:00hrs and a decision on the way forward is expected.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

Appeal Court to hear arguments in recount injunction case today TODAY, two of the region’s leading legal luminaries would engage in a legal battle of words in the Court of Appeal on whether the Full Court erred when it ruled that the Court has no jurisdiction to review the actions of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) outside of an Elections Petition.

Grenadian Queen Counsel, Dr Francis Alexis, who is leading a battery of lawyers on behalf of Ulita Moore – the appellant, is likely to maintain the position that the Court can review the actions of GECOM in light of allegations that it may have acted outside of its constitutional powers when it opted to facilitate a National Recount under the supervision of a high-level team from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) based on an agreement brokered by President Da-

vid Granger and Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo. Trinidad’s Senior Counsel, Douglas Mendes, who is leading another team of lawyers on behalf of Jagdeo – the seventh named respondent, is likely to argue that Section 140 (1) of the Representation of the People Act ousts the jurisdiction of the Court to hear Moore’s Fixed Date Application (FDA). He is maintaining that any challenge to decisions made by GECOM ought to be brought by way of an Elections Petition.

Both Dr. Alexis and Senior Counsel Mendes will present their arguments via Skype.

Moore, a private citizen, wants the High Court to block the Elections Commission from facilitating a National Recount of all the votes cast at the March 2 General and Regional Elections, and to have a President

of Guyana declared. But, the Full Court, in overturning an earlier decision by Justice Franklin Holder, ruled, on Tuesday, that any challenge to decisions made by the Elections Commission could only be done by way of an Elections Petition, and not Judicial Review, as outlined in the Constitution and Electoral Laws. Within hours of that ruling, Moore filed Notice of Appeal, inclusive of a request for leave to challenge the decision of the Full Court, which had comprised Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire and Justice Nareshwar Harnanan.

When the case – Ulita Moore v the Guyana Elections Commission and others – was called in the Court of Appeal on Thursday before Justices of Appeal, Dawn Gregory and Rishi Persaud and High Court Judge Brassington Reynolds, it was agreed that Mendes and his Attorney-at-Law Anil Nandlall proceeding to the Appellate Court

Even as she safeguards herself from the coronavirus, former Solicitor General Kim Kyte-Thomas makes her way to the Court of Appeal on Thursday team would file their response by 17:00hrs on Thursday, while Dr. Alexis and his team would file their reply by 6:00hrs on Friday.

The oral arguments would then commence at 10:00hrs on Friday in the Court of Appeal.

Justice Gregory said the Appellate Court will hand down its ruling shortly after, but did not specify a date or time.

Dr. Alexis is presenting Moore’ case in association with Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde, Attorney-at-Law Mayo Robertson, and Attorneys-at-Law John Jeremie S.C., and Keith Scotland out of Trinidad and Tobago.

Senior Counsel Mendes is appearing in association with Attorneys-at-Law Anil Nandlall and Davindra Kissoon while the Chairman of GECOM, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh is being represented by Attorneys-at-Law, Kim Kyte-Thomas. Senior Counsel Neil Boston is representing the Chief Elections Officer while Attorney-at-Law, Timothy Jonas, appeared on behalf of A New and United Guyana (ANUG), the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) and The New Movement (TNM) – all added respondents in the matter.

In her application, Moore told the Appellate Court that the Full Court erred in law when it ruled that the High Court did not have jurisdiction to hear or consider the FDA. Outside the Court, Forde said the battery of lawyers representing Moore will reiterate her position. “Our position is that the ruling of the Full Court…was wrong in law, and we expect the Court of Appeal to set aside the decision of the Full Court,” the Senior Counsel told reporters.

Importantly, Forde said it is his expectation that the Elections Commission would await a ruling from the Appellate Court before making any decision.

“We expect that the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission would honour what she always says, that she will await the hearing of the process,” Forde said as he shut down suggestions by Nandlall that there is nothing

stopping GECOM from proceeding with a national recount in light of the injunctions by Justice Franklin being lifted by the Full Court.

Forde drew attention to the fact that after the ruling of Justice Holder, Jagdeo, through his attorneys, filed an appeal to the Full Court.

“It is amazing that after the ruling of Justice Holder, the other side felt it proper to file an appeal to the Full Court, but the court system recognises further appeals. So why is it only when they obtain a victory at the Full Court that the statement made by the Chairman of Elections Commission that she would wait for the outcome of the court proceedings, how that suddenly comes to an end. And that is the problem that we have been having throughout this process, whether from time to time, people are making selective statements,” Forde

Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde proceeding to the Court of Appeal on Thursday reasoned.

The Senior Counsel further pointed to the fact that once the Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo had made his declarations – the last of 10 – the Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield compiled his report with the results and submitted it to the Chairman of GECOM for deliberation at the level of the Elections Commission.

“GECOM was free to go ahead, even to present the report presented to them by Mr. Lowenfield. That report has been presented to the Chairman of the Elections Commission since the 14TH March; she was free to present that report since then,” he said as he brushed aside the issue of a recount. “Why a report can’t be presented to the Elections Commission,” he further questioned.

But Nandlall, in a separate interview, said he expects the Elections Commission to proceed with its work.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

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City Hall unveils raft of measures to battle COVID-19 AS a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which has created ripple effects worldwide, the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown, on Thursday, unveiled a raft of measures to tackle and mitigate the spread of the virus.

In order to safeguard the public health of the citizenry of Georgetown and the public at large, City Hall announced that the permission for public gatherings of more than five persons will not be granted; but that does not include the presence of members of our City Constabulary and other persons engaged in essential duties.

Public places will be closed except essential services / essential service providers.

Bars and restaurants will operate between 06:00 hours and 18:00 hours. (6:00 am – 6:00 pm) As well as gymnasiums, movie theatres, libraries, play parks and other recreational facilities.

Restaurants will facilitate take-out and/or delivery services. Dining will be prohibited.

Hotels are to remain open, but are required to close pools, spas, gyms, tennis courts and other recreational facilities where persons cluster; hotel restaurants and bars to only operate room service, take out and/or delivery services.

The M&CC is also pleading with persons to desist from congregating in public places.

They are also asking for all public and private offices to operate for no more than four

hours daily and to limit persons at banks and other institutions unless the transactions are absolutely necessary and to continue to practise social distancing.

Although this might be an inconvenience to some, the M&CC explained that it stands resolute with the Government of Guyana in the combat of the COVID-19; as such, the notice is subject to change in accordance with national guidelines.

ESSENTIAL SERVICES / ESSENTIAL SERVICE PROVIDERS Such services will continue to be provided.

The list below is relevant:Caregivers, for example, nurses and home helpers; collection, storage, purification and distribution of water for public use; hospitals, clinics and pharmacies; media and broadcasting services; medical and paramedical professionals; removal, handling or burial of deceased persons or disposal of dead animals; sanitation services for the collection, storage, treatment and disposal of sewage, garbage or refuse; security services (private); emergency first responders, the Joint Services; staff of pharmaceutical agencies; telecommunications providers; transport services and waterfront workers; supermarkets – provision of food supplies; provider of beverages and fuel service stations

Outside of the Stabroek Market Bazaar on Thursday (Delano Williams Photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

Coalition slams ‘deceptive’ PPP … says party through Mercury spinning false narrative of elections victory

IN a counter strike on Thursday, the APNU+AFC slammed the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for utilising violent, questionable and anti-national means to grab at an elections victory which it “did not earn”.

In a scathing response to a release from the Opposition which accused the coalition of working “to peddle misinformation and advance the false narrative of its victory”, the APNU+AFC put forward that the PPP/C is trying to pin its own misdoings on the government.

The party said, on Thursday, that even while the elections were deemed free, fair and transparent by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), before the voting had concluded, it was the PPP/C -- under the guidance of international company, Mercury -- which declared that it had won the elections.

“The PPP/C has used its hired hack, Mercury, to spew a chronology of false narrative within Guyanese society and the international community to hurt Guyanese people and diminish our patrimony.

They have called on our international partners to impose hurtful sanctions on the Guyanese people. This presumably would be punishment for the people having rejected them at the polls. We find this narrative grossly anti-national and against the spirit of the Guyanese tradition,” the released.

The APNU+AFC said that forming its plot to overthrow the electoral process, the PPP/C disrupted the tabulation for Region Four, thereby preventing GECOM from declaring the results which shows a victory for the President David Granger-led Administration.

It also rejected the claim that the coalition has launched a whispering campaign “to steal political power” noting that from the beginning of the elections the APNU+AFC has been appealing to the Guyanese public to remain calm and patient and allow GECOM to complete its obligation. “It is our fundamental belief that the people’s vote must be counted by the appropriate authority and the constitutionally permitted mechanism; and for this reason, we have maintained that GECOM must conclude its legal and constitutional mandate and declare the winner based on its SOPs,” the party stated.

“In fact, we have said consistently that the SOPs fabricated by the PPP/C must be rejected because they are bogus. How can the PPP/C produce a tally of votes based on its SOPs on February 29, 2019 for a March 2, 2020 general election and

expect to be taken seriously? What could be more fraudulent than that?” It called out the Opposition on its frivolous court injunction as an obstruction tactic, the assault of school children during its violent protests and other inconveniences caused.

The APNU+AFC stated that these actions represent “a last gasp by the PPP/C to thwart the election process” and should be shunned.

WHO gets US$677M to tackle COVID-19 DIRECTOR-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has announced that as of April 01, US$677 million has been pledged or received for the Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan to tackle the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Two months ago, the WHO announced the first Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan, with an initial amount of $675 million for the first three months of the response.

Of that amount, the director-general said $300 million has been pledged or received for WHO’s operations, and the remainder has been given to partners or bilaterally.

During his opening remarks at the mission’s briefing on COVID-19, he noted that it was inspiring to hear from China, Japan, the Republic of Korea and Singapore about their experience and the lessons they have learnt.

Dr. Ghebreyesus noted that he expects to hear of more experiences from other countries. “We are learn-

WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus ing as we go, reviewing the evidence and adapting our recommendations as necessary,” he said.

In the next two days, it is expected that there will be one million confirmed cases of COVID-19 globally, and 50,000 deaths.

“This virus, which was unknown to us three months ago, has exposed the weaknesses and inequities in our health systems and societies, our lack of preparedness, and the gaps in our supply chains and other essential systems,” Dr. Ghebreyesus pointed out.

The WHO recently published guidance on maintaining essential health services while responding to COVID-19. This is one of more than 40 pieces of detailed, evidence-based documents to guide countries in the response.

The director-general reported that WHO’s research and development efforts are moving quickly.

The Solidarity trial, which is assessing potential treatments for COVID-19, has already brought in 74 countries, which have either joined the trial or are in the process of joining. More than 200 patients have been randomly assigned to one of the study arms.

Dr. Ghebreyesus thanked all member states and partners for their generosity and solidarity, noting that WHO and partners will require much more support over the coming weeks and months.

The WHO director-general reiterated his call for governments to provide a social safety net so that vulnerable people have food and other essentials during this crisis. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

Slight drop in persons in institutional quarantine THE number of confirmed cases of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) has remained constant over the past 24 hours in Guyana, with the number remaining at 19.

This was according to Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, during her daily update on the Ministry of Public Health’s Facebook page, on Thursday. While the cases remained the same, the minister said Guyana had recorded two new deaths on Wednesday, bringing the total number of COVID-19 related deaths to four. Although Minister Lawrence did not provide details on the fourth death, the Guyana Chronicle was reliably informed that the victim was a 59-year-old man, who died at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, which has a special COVID-19 facility.

Prior to the man’s demise on Wednesday, Minister Lawrence had confirmed the death of Osa Collins, a 78-year-old resident of New Amsterdam, who recently returned to Guyana from the United States of America (USA). Guyana had confirmed its first imported case of COVID-19 in Georgetown on Wednesday, March 11, 2020.

That patient, a 52-year-

old Guyanese woman who had travelled from the United States of America to Guyana on March 5, 2020, was presented to the public health system on March 10. She died at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation on March 11.

Since then, four of the woman’s relatives and 13 others have tested positive for the virus.

The cases were from three regions, with Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) having 17 cases and one probable case; and Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) having one each. In addition to Collins and the 52-yearold woman, Jermaine Ifill, an emergency medical technician (EMT) who was one of two persons hospitalised in the Coronavirus ICU, succumbed on Tuesday to the dreaded COVID-19. Health authorities have so far tested 75 persons, with the results being 19 positives, 55 negatives and one inconclusive.

Director of Disease Control, Dr. Nadia Liu, had explained that an inconclusive case means that the person tested neither negative nor positive. It, however, means that the person can go on to manifest signs and symptoms of the

virus and then test positive.

In such cases, health officials will continue to monitor the patient(s). Minister Lawrence said the number of persons in institutional quarantine has moved from 36 persons to 31. And of the 11 persons in isolation, one remains hospitalised in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

According to the minister, 121 persons are practising home quarantine.

“As of yesterday (April 1) calls to the COVID-19 hotline moved from 1,142 to 1,252…I wish to further inform you that Regions Two, Seven, Eight, Nine and 10 now have COVID-19 hotlines,” said the public health minister. It was reported that hotline reports from persons, who were in contact with infected persons, were coming from communities along the coastland, including Enmore and Good Hope on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) to Prashad Nagar, Straboek and South Ruimveldt in Georgetown. There have also been calls from Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara (ECD) and Vreed-en-Hoop on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD).

The Ministry of Public Health surveillance team has also been reaching out to those “contacts.” And, in this re-

gard, Minister Lawrence said persons, who are contacted by the surveillance team, must provide accurate information, since this could contribute to stopping the spread of the virus.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact globally. As of April, the number of confirmed cases in 213 countries and territories stood at 823,626 with the number of deaths moving “alarmingly” from 36,405 to 40,598 in a matter of 24 hours.

In the region of the Americas, the total number of confirmed cases has increased from 163,014 to 188,751. The number of deaths in this region has also moved from 2,836 to 3,400 in 51 of the 55 countries that make up the Americas.

On Saturday, President David Granger said a “cavalier approach” in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic could ‘seriously’ impair government’s efforts to combat the virus, especially now that the cases have moved from five to eight persons. Such an approach from the public could result in consequences which will be devastating for the entire population, said the President. “Guyanese, I urge you to continue to support all medical professionals: doctors,

nurses, and other caregivers. I urge you also to practise social distancing in public places and to avoid crowds, ceremonies, including funerals, and large gatherings,” said President Granger.

He also advised persons to remain calm and implement all guidelines pertaining to personal hygiene and infection prevention and control. Based on consultations, President Granger had issued directions under the Public Health Ordinance (Cap.145) and international standards to prevent and control the spread of this disease.

Speaking about those instructions, the President said: “I authorised the Minister of Public Health to take all measures considered necessary to restrain, segregate and isolate persons suffering from the disease and, or who may be likely to be suffering from the disease.” He believes that the public must adhere to infection-prevention and control measures, as personal conduct is the single most important element in preventing the spread of this deadly disease.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. WHO

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Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence said most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. Older persons and those with underlying medical problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.

WHO believes that the best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about the virus, the disease it causes and how it spreads.

“Protect yourself and others from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol-based rub frequently and not touching your face.

The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it’s important that you also practise respiratory etiquette (for example, by coughing into a flexed elbow),” WHO advised.

Some Guyanese playing deaf to COVID-19 warnings

WITH the death toll now at four and 19 confirmed cases, one would expect persons to adhere to the precautionary measures set out by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the health authorities.

However, to date, persons can be seen maneuvering through the capital city going about their usual business and congregating despite being told to maintain social distancing as a means of slowing the spread of the deadly coronavirus.

President David Granger, in an address to the nation, had urged citizens to adhere to the precautionary measures as a means of slowing the spread of the dreaded virus.

“The public must adhere to infection

prevention and control measures as personal conduct is the single most important element in preventing the spread of this deadly disease,” the head of state said.

He also expressed concerns about the conduct of citizens.

The national task force continues to monitor the situation in Guyana and this includes citizens’ conduct. We are concerned that too many citizens and businesses have been ignoring public advisories and warnings.”

He added that a nonchalant approach to the COVID-19 pandemic will affect the population gravely if persons do not begin to adhere to the precautionary and prevention measures.

“Guyanese, a cavalier approach in the face

of this global pandemic can seriously impair our efforts to combat COVID-19; consequences can be devasting for the entire population,” the head of state added.

Wonette Lespuer, a citizen, stated that she was returning home from work when she saw a group of young men ‘drinking and sporting’ as per normal as if the entire world is not battling with a deadly pandemic.

The young woman added that the sight angered her because there are persons who are dying and fighting for their lives during this critical time and some persons are not heeding the precautions.

A united states-based Guyanese, who requested not to be named, stated that he has

been watching on from videos and pictures posted on Facebook and other social media websites and is disappointed that persons are not taking the virus seriously and practising social distancing.

Rolanda Austin stated that persons are not taking the pandemic seriously and should adhere to the precautionary measures.

She added that a lot of young people like to ‘stray’ and are not accustomed to social distancing.

Austin further stated that some persons are busy seeking to blame or stigmatise others for the spread of the virus instead of adhering to social distancing rule to protect themselves and others.

THAG calls for ‘full closure’ of all places of entertainment THE Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) has appealed for a “full closure” of bars and all places of entertainment, as a measure of reducing the spread of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

The association’s call followed President David Granger’s announcement of a curfew for public gathering at bars, clubs, gymnasiums, night clubs, restaurants and swimming pools, between the hours of 06:00 hours and 18:00 hours, starting from Friday at midnight.

“However, in light of the new study done yesterday by the Pan American

Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) and the Ministry of Public Health which revealed that Guyana can see over 20,000 cases of the new coronavirus by May 5, 2020, is worrying, to say the least,” said THAG. In this regard, the association appealed for the complete closure of bars and all places of entertainment for an initial period of two weeks, after which the situation should be reassessed.

The calls come at a time when Guyana has recorded 19 cases of COVID-19, with four deaths. Globally, the number of cases has surpassed one million, while

the number of deaths is nearing 50,000.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus.

WHO said most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment.

Older persons and those with underlying medical problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.

WHO believes that the best way to

prevent and slow down transmission is to be well-informed about the virus, the disease it causes and how it spreads.

“Protect yourself and others from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol-based rub frequently and not touching your face.

The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it’s important that you also practise respiratory etiquette (for example, by coughing into a flexed elbow),” WHO advised.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

Oil revenues can be tapped for COVID-19 ‘emergency situation’ … says TT economist who helped design Guyana’s NRF

By Vishani Ragobeer TRINIDADIAN Economist, Dr. Roger Hosein, has said that Guyana’s oil revenues, held within the Natural Resources Fund (NRF), can be tapped into to boost the country’s response to the emergency situation arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In March, it was reported that the Ministry of Finance has sent a request for US$5M to the World Bank to assist with local efforts geared at mitigating the impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Finance Minister Winston Jordan noted that this request was being processed, but in the meantime he was proactively seeking out other avenues of garnering funds to help boost the health sector. The use of the oil revenues in the NRF, he said, were perhaps a “last resort” given the stringent rules guiding withdrawals. Jordan,

Trinidadian Economist, Dr. Roger Hosein however, mentioned that under Article 27 (1) of the NRF act, there is a provision for the Finance Minister to request a withdrawal from the fund for emergency financing, in the event of the occurrence of a natural disaster.

This act defines a natural disaster as “... an earthquake, flood or hurricane or other caused by natural processes of the earth that has such a severe impact on the environment and the living conditions of the population…”. COVID-19 does not necessarily fall into this category, but even so, Dr. Hosein underscored that this NRF is still a viable option for Guyana, given the projected devastation from COVID-19. “I don’t see why it is that the term “other disaster” cannot be used in this emergency situation in order to access these funds,” said the economist, who helped with the design of Guyana’s NRF. .

According to him, if the US$5M request from the World Bank does not materialise, or the country is not able to secure funds from other sources such as the Islamic Development Bank or the Inter-American Development Bank quickly, then by all means, the country should utilise the funds in the NRF. “I urge the Guyanese government to act quickly, in this regard,” the economist said, “It either accesses the US$5M from the World Bank, or it uses its own resources from its NRF, seeking the appropriate permission (to access that fund) if it can.”

IMMEDIATE ACTION NEEDED The economist also highlighted that since Guyana has a low level of income, the government should capitalise quickly on the avenues presented in order to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.

In light of the coronavirus pandemic, the Trinidadian government indicated that it will be amending its Heritage and Stabilisation Fund (HSF)- that country’s version of Guyana’s NRF, which also saves some of the profits from the hydrocarbon industry to cushion the impact of COVID-19.

Cognisant of the delays following the conclusion of Guyana’s Regional and General Elections last month, Dr. Hosein acknowledged that Guyana may not have the leeway or flexibility right now to amend its NRF legislation like Trinidad to cater for the health pandemic.

However, he did suggest that an appeal be made through the court, or the government should pursue whatever means necessary to access the fund for emergency purposes, if Guyana is unable to access the funds from the World Bank or otherwise.

Globally, the spread of the coronavirus has been increasing exponentially. Last week, the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/ WHO) and the Ministry of Public Health projected that there would be 1400 cases of persons infected with the virus. However, due to a new study conducted, the bodies have revised the total to a mammoth amount of 20,000 cases

by May 5.

Guyana has, so far, been tapping into its consolidated fund in order to boost the health sector, and President David Granger issued sweeping executive orders to tackle the disease locally. As of April 1, however, Guyana recorded 19 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and four deaths.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

Young fashion designer launches project –– calls on seamstresses, to tackle COVID-19 fabric stores to get on board made mask. Also, I heard that they are not as effective as the M95 or the surgical mask,” the young woman explained.

The young woman added that within minutes of making the post, it quickly went viral and she began receiving a tremendous outpour of support and requests from per-

By Naomi Parris IN an effort to slow the spread of the deadly COVID-19 virus, a young fashion designer has embarked on an initiative to make as many fabric masks as she can and distribute them to hospitals and persons who need them, free of cost.

Akeisha Ayanna told Guyana Chronicle that the initiative derived from a worldwide movement where seamstresses across the world have decided to make fabric face mask to distribute to hospitals and persons in vulnerable situations.

However, Akeisha stated that she was a bit undecided since the mask were said to not be 100 per cent effective. Nevertheless, she made the first mask on Thursday morning and proceeded to make a post on social media as a means of recruiting more people to get on board with the drive.

“About 10 days ago,

The young fashion designer, Akeisha Ayanna, wearing the first face mask she made I saw a post online about the million mask challenge and the title was sewers all around the world are coming together to make homemade mask for hospitals and those in need. After I saw it, there was a bit of uncertainty in me because I hadn’t done a lot of research about the home-

No. 52-74 NDC implements 7pm curfew for residents THE No. 52-74 Neighborhood Democratic Council (NDC) in Corentyne, Berbice, has implemented several measures to support the national effort to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) These actions take effect from April 1, 2020. The NDC has advised all residents to be indoors by 19:00 hrs.

Dining at bars and restaurants is prohibited. These venues should only provide take away services and must be closed at 16:00hrs.

All other business entities are to be closed at 19:00hrs and pharmacies at 18:00 hrs.

To ensure proper hygiene and hand-washing practices, business owners are asked to install hand-washing station at the entrances of their businesses.

The NDC has also advised that all religious public gatherings are limited to three persons and a social distance of three to six feet must be maintained.

Further, the Council is asking residents to report any “backtrack” or illegal activities in the district.The No. 52-74 is calling for all citizens to give their fullest cooperation. To date, Guyana has recorded 19 confirmed cases of the virus with four deaths.

Globally, the number of confirmed cases stands at 823,626, while the number of deaths is now 40,598.

In the region of the Americas, there are 188,751 confirmed cases and 3,400 deaths. (DPI)

sons all across the country.

“I’ve been getting an overwhelming amount of support… I see people reaching out to me from hinterland regions asking if I would be willing to consider moving the initiative to their parts of the country,” she stated Given the seriousness of the pandemic, the young

woman said she saw the initiative as a ‘I help you, you help me’ community project where persons can lend a hand to those who are in need of the basic necessities during the outbreak.

Akeisha is also urging all those who own a sewing machine or those who may have fabric to get on board

with the movement to slow the spread of the deadly coronavirus.

Persons who wish to donate materials to this project (100 per cent cotton material, thin elastic, fusible interfacing, thread, even Singer sewing machine needles (90/14)) can do so by calling 611-7920.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

CCJ to work remotely

AS a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) worldwide pandemic, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), which is located in Trinidad and Tobago, has closed its doors to the public until further notice.

However, while the doors to the CCJ building are closed to the public, its staff and Bench have fully transitioned to remote work arrangements as they continue to serve the region.

Earlier this week, the CCJ had implemented certain restrictions to overcome this global pandemic. The CCJ, in a release, highlighted that e-filing via CURIA is operational. Library queries can be e-mailed to library@ccj.org and general queries can be forwarded to info@ccj. org.

Under the guidance of the local Ministries of Health and National Security, and in order to

ensure the safety of staff members, visitors and stakeholders, the CCJ decided to take several measures including the postponement of the 12th CCJ Annual International Law Moot.

The Court had taken the necessary precaution to postpone this event as it brings together law students from throughout the region to participate in its flagship mooting competition, the CCJ said. It said that alternative modes for conducting the moot and dates are under consideration and decisions will be communicated in due course. The regional court has also suspended Court Tours to the public in an effort to restrict the free flow of persons throughout the CCJ building and to control the level of interaction among persons.

The move also includes tours comprising students from every educational level.

The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

Caribbean network formed to help tackle COVID-19 crisis

SINCE the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic in the Caribbean region, a group of young professionals was formed to conduct surveys and studies, to assist in formulating emergency plans.

This group, named ‘Caribbean Data Fam’ comprises of a large number of Caribbean youths, including one from Guyana, and a few Cuban doctors.

This group was formed by way of an online platform, ‘Slack’, by a young Trinidadian who connected with several other like-minded young people enthusiastic about coming up with solutions for the pandemic.

Chelsea Pearson, Guyana’s representative, is a 20-year-old University of Guyana student studying Government and International Relations.

In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Pearson said that she has sound interest in following global trends and helping to come up with solutions.

“And I really think Guyanese should take this seriously and consider a lockdown, looking at the trends of other countries and the capacity of our health care system,” she said.

Referencing the interna-

tional countries who were vastly affected.

“Look at Italy, they took too long to act, now they are suffering. Look at Spain and Europe and the rest of the world. Why would Guyana be spared and we’re making the same mistakes? The figures speak for itself, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. No one wishes death in their family,” Pearson said.

Based on her research and surveys, the young woman listed a plethora of recommended actions to be taken in Guyana.

Firstly, she said that a website should be created, possibly named “GuyanaCovid-19.com” that will seek to enable the populace to have access to information on the disease which will include global figures as it relates to deaths and confirmed cases and precautionary measures.

“A special section on the site will enable eligible persons to apply for food stamps, and medical supplies. Every citizen should have registered to this website with their ID’s or name and date of birth.

The military should be used to help distribute supplies to households, especially those in the Hinterland Communities. Farmers should be given cash grants to ensure that the

Government and International Relations Student at the University of Guyana, Chelsea Pearson production of food is not suspended for this period of time.

Make available, one private hospital to treat uninfected patients. Provide Tax cuts to the said hospital so that health care can continue to be free.

We should have heavy police presence in each district to ensure full lockdown, and anyone found to be on the streets without a legitimate excuse should be subjected to pay a fine no less than $120,000. If they are found on the streets for a second occasion, without any good excuse, they will be subjected to pay a fine of

$170,000,” Pearson said in her list of recommendations.

Additionally, she believes that all essential companies such as GT&T, Guyana Power and Light and Guyana Water Inc. should be given tax breaks for the period in order to assist them with facilitating deferrals of payment dates to at least three months. And citizens who have to pay rent will receive grants with the use of the website she recommended be created.

How can the Government of Guyana deal with the spread of this COVID-19?

The young research student said that government has a key role to play in the effectiveness of Guyana’s response.

The government, she said should identify the epicenter of this virus, which has so far been named as DemeraraMahaica (Region Four), and impose a stricter lockdown system.

“Medical supplies, such as ventilators, testing kits and protective gear should be given in every region. Border security should be on high alert with testing equipment on site. They should get data on where the people are of high risk, and find out what is the best thing to be done for those in that area,” Pearson

Commonwealth supports resolution to elections stalemate AT the 56th meeting of Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) on Tuesday, the Commonwealth committed to supporting CARICOM in its endeavours to monitor the smooth flow of democracy in Guyana.

Attending the meeting by video conference was Ambassador Raychelle Omamo SC, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Kenya, Ministers and Representatives of Australia, Barbados, Belize, Ghana, Malaysia, Namibia and the United Kingdom.

They expressed “grave concern” about the counting and tabulation of Region Four votes and noted that the process had been interrupted by several matters such as the declaration of the Region’s Returning Officer (RO), since ruled unlawful, and election-related litigation brought before the Court.

Even so, the Ministerial Action Group said it remains ready to support the process towards a transparent elections conclusion in Guyana and welcomes the public undertaking of the GECOM Chair that the votes be recounted. “Ministers strongly iterated

that any Government which is sworn in without a credible and fully transparent vote count and tabulation process would lack legitimacy. Ministers affirmed the Commonwealth’s readiness, along with its partners, to provide assistance to ensuring a credible and transparent conclusion to the electoral process in accordance with the will of the people as expressed on 2nd March,” the release stated.

“Ministers also encouraged the Secretary-General to remain engaged with Guyana through her Good Offices and to keep CMAG informed of developments in the country. Ministers agreed to keep Guyana on the formal agenda, and, where necessary, to convene an extraordinary meeting to discuss the situation and explore appropriate options.”

An 11-member Observer Group from the Commonwealth arrived in Guyana on February 23, 2020 to observe pre-election, polling day and post-election activities to ensure that they were in keeping with Guyana’s laws, and its regional and international commitments. The team was led by Chair of the Commonwealth Observer

Group, former Prime Minister of Barbados, Owen Arthur.

Following the breakdown in the tabulation of the counting and tabulation, the Commonwealth commended CARICOM’s efforts, at the invitation of President Granger and the agreement of the Leader of the Opposition, to support the transparent and credible counting of ballots under the authority of GECOM. The Ministerial Action Group noted with deep regret that the CARICOM High-Level Initiative in the interest of peace and the preservation of democratic values was halted. “Ministers encouraged CARICOM to remain seized of the situation in Guyana and committed Commonwealth support to these endeavours,” the statement indicated.

“Ministers called upon the Guyana Elections Commission to immediately fulfil its constitutional mandate and ensure the sovereign right of the people of Guyana to duly elect their Government is respected through a transparent and credible counting and tabulation process.”

suggested.

Underscoring the reported effects that COVID-19 has on the global markets, Pearson quoted the Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), Alicia Bárcena, who said, “No country will be able to fight this pandemic without global and regional cooperation.

At the end of the day, what we really need to consider is what will happen to multilateralism. There must be more integration. Without a doubt, we must move towards greater coordination, and the policy priority must be how to address the current social and health crisis.”

Given the sentiments of Bárcena, Pearson said that an example can be seen in the oil markets.

“There is no longer a large demand for oil since companies are no longer producing items that are necessary.

The world is already in a rescission. We as Guyanese can overcome this period and rebuild if action is taken early. We need to rethink everything, the entire economy.

We need a new vision to focus ourselves on how to cope with the extremely difficult scenario that lies before us,” she emphasized.

What can Guyana do to protect its markets?

In relation to protecting Guyana’s markets, the young woman reiterated that farmers should be given cash grants so they would be able to produce more food, which will be sufficient for our citizens and for export.

Additionally, she said en-

couraging small companies, those who make teas, creams, soaps and other items to continue their production at home would be a great idea as well.

“We can build our economy, encourage kitchen farms, food is essential and we supply large quantities to export to the countries in need. Items can also be sold to locals who can afford it. Those who are unemployed can play a vital role in providing information, to the task force, working delivering goods, medication etc. as dispatchers for various districts.

At least three task force vehicles should be in each district at any given time. Each truck should contain more than two workers, all of whom will be in a quarantine location, and will be responsible for the distribution of needed items paid for or for free; for sanitation; and for any unrelated covid-19 issue that needs medical attention,” Pearson proposed.

Recommending too, that the David G busses and boats should be used to carry medical workers; they should be sanitized before and after every drop.

These are but a few of her recommendations birthed from her research material, but the young woman noted that the group is in its developing stage and all of its findings and proposed solutions will be made public in due time.

However, in the interim, Pearson believes that Guyana should not wait for the situation to escalate, but rather, act now and implement a strict emergency plan before more lives are lost.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 3, 2020

Lindeners up calls for regional borders to be closed

By Vanessa Braithwaite

WITH the rapid increase in coronavirus cases in Guyana, the numbers now being 19, and 17 of which are reported to be from Region Four, residents of the mining town of Linden are calling on officials to close the borders of the town.

This, they believe, will significantly limit the people and vehicular traffic coming from Region Four particularly, which Region 10 shares borders with.

Heightened calls have been made for minibus and cars plying the Georgetown route to stop doing so at this time so that the region will remain coronavirus-free.

Making a public call was a top-ranking official at the Linden Hospital Complex, who related on social media and to this newspaper that he too believes the borders should be closed, as the medical institutions within the region, which consist of the Linden Hospital Complex, the Upper Demerara Hospital, the Kwakwani Hospital and the health centres, are in no way equipped to deal with not one suspected case of coronavirus.

While the Regional Health Emergency Committee has established three isolation rooms at the various institutions to deal with any case

Nurses attached to the Linden Hospital Complex

of the virus, he revealed that these rooms are not properly equipped with the necessary medical apparatus and even trained staff to attend to any patient.

“We don’t have the equipment, no ventilators, no trained staff to deal with this virus at any of the hospitals,” the medical official said.

In fact, all medical officials he said, were told that if any suspected case is discovered, medical personnel should contact the task force to deal with the matter.

This newspaper was reliably

informed of at least one suspected case where the patient was given medication and sent home after being referred to the task force by the medical personnel at the LHC Emergency Unit.

In a recent interview with the media, Medical Superintendent attached to the Mackenzie Hospital, Dr. Joseph London, urged residents to stay at home, especially if they experience any symptom of COVID-19. He urged them to not go to the hospital, but to call the hotline numbers which are 444-6127 and 444-6137, after

which they will be further advised.

Meanwhile, Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell, said while the Emergency Committee which consists of the disciplinary forces in the region was able to establish a curfew, it is not in a position to mandate border closure, as Region 10 is the gateway to other regions, particularly interior locations.

Region 10 shares borders with Regions Four, Six, Seven, Eight and Nine. She said that decision will have to be made at a national level.

Lindeners are, however, adamant

that the borders should be closed earliest to keep the town and by extension Region 10, virus-free.

“This should be done immediately. We need to close our borders, too many people coming up here on a daily basis, cars and buses traversing the highway, we need to put something in place to ensure traffic going to other regions pass straight through, and not stop, just open up for essential services to come into the town and that’s it,” one very vocal Lindener said. These sentiments were echoed by many others, particularly on social media platforms.

The Regional Health Emergency Committee continues to enact measures to keep the town sanitised and promote social distancing. Linden was the first town to institute a mandatory curfew which sees businesses closing at 18:00hrs and citizens being off the streets by 20:00hrs.

The public spaces are also being sanitised by the LMTC and the Linden Fire Station. All dine-in services were halted at restaurants and public sinks were installed at various locations. Regional officials and the police continue to monitor business places to ensure measures are being practised and an aggressive COVID-19 media campaign is being carried out to keep the residents informed.

Lethem Market to be sanitised weekly …as town council enforces COVID-19 measures AS the authorities at Lethem work to curtail the spread of the coronavirus, the town council will be undertaking weekly sanitisation of the market at the Rupununi town.

Recently, the Guyana Chronicle reported on several measures which a regional stakeholder body recommended to the authorities and these are currently being enforced by the town council.

According to a release from the town council, all persons who wish to enter several public buildings, including the market, must wash their hands at the entrance of the buildings.

Among other measures enforced on April 2, 2020, are for all religious organisations, social organisations, commercial businesses and offices to desist from all forms of gathering and to maintain the social distancing

conditions outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH).

All businesses are asked to be closed at

the council says no road vending will be allowed at this time; failure to adhere will result in permits being revoked. It was noted too that all restaurants are asked to offer

of eat in.

Also, no permission will be granted for dances and parties or similar events which will see mass gatherings.

The council said too that all recreational fa-

further notice.

While the town has not enforced a curfew, the council urged residents to desist from being on the streets after 19:00hrs unless absolutely necessary.

The Regional Task Force Committee of Re-

Sanitisation of the Lethem Market recently (Lethem Town Council photo)

18:00 hours daily and

takeaway service instead

cilities, including playparks, will be closed until

gion Nine, of which the Town Council is a mem-

ber, has requested the closure of the Kurupukari crossing. Several days ago, as part of the recommendations, only cargo trucks, government vehicles , security forces vehicles and private vehicles with no more than two persons are allowed to use the pontoon at the crossing. It was noted that the private bus services which ply the Lethem/Georgetown route were informed of the move.

During this period when it is imperative that citizens take every precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the council asked the general public to assist in safeguarding themselves and loved ones by adhering to the instructions of the authorities.

Persons exhibiting symptoms and signs of the coronavirus are asked to contact via telephone the Lethem Regional Hospital’s hotline # 772-2006.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 3, 2020

GAWU calls for shutdown of sugar estates …urges government to support workers during these ‘trying times’

General Secretary of GAWU, Seepaul Narine

IN light of growing concerns over the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) has called on the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) to suspend its operations and for government to support sugar workers during these “trying times.”

GAWU, in a letter to the GuySuCo’s Chief Industrial Relations Manager, Deodat Sukhu, called on the state-owned sugar company to suspend temporarily its operations for an appropriate period in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In our correspondence which was copied to several senior GuySuCo officials, among others, we pointed out that over the last few days, workers have expressed their fear about contracting the coronavirus. The workers fearfulness, we added, have been heightened in recent days as the number of persons infected has risen and reports have indicated that this number will climb even higher in the coming days,” said GAWU. GAWU acknowledged the corporation for its implementation of several measures as a means to allay workers fears, but those measures, while welcomed, have not helped to sufficiently subdue workers concerns at this time, especially given the unfolding national situation.

In further expressing their views, GAWU said: “We reminded the GuySuCo that is it bound both by agreement and statue, among other things, to ensure that workers are protected from hazards whether they are physical or biological.”

The union pointed out that workers have expressed anxieties about going to work, not because they are unwilling, but they are seeking to protect themselves and their families’ health and well-being at this time. It was against this background that the union urged the corporation to consider a temporary cessation of operations.

The Union, in its correspondence, also called on GuySuCo to provide appropriate financial support to the “beleaguered” and “hard-pressed” sugar workers.

“We advised the GuySuCo that it ought to approach its political bosses to access sufficient financial support to ensure that it can assist its workers in this crisis period. We reminded the state-owned enterprise that the Government is ensuring that all its workers do not suffer any loss in pay and, therefore, the sugar workers are just as deserving.

“The GAWU reminded that the sugar workers and their families are Guyanese citizens foremost, and they, like all citizens, deserve the support of the State at this difficult time.

The GAWU is hopeful that the Corporation would consider sincerely and soberly our requests,” said GAWU. GAWU further stated: “The GuySuCo has oft repeated that its workers are its most important assets and, therefore, it should pursue every mean to ensure that they and their families are safeguarded and protected at this time. We pointed out to the sugar company that several other enterprises in our country have taken similar stances as we suggested and it appears to be a most prudent course at this time.”

Considering the national situation, GAWU urged all Guyanese to heed the warnings, follow the advice and take all and every precaution to stay safe.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 3, 2020

LMTC continues sanitisation exercise in Mackenzie

-- sinks installed in several parts of the market arena

By Vanessa Braithwaite

THE Linden Mayor and Town Council has continued its sanitisation exercise by washing down main roads and market squares with bleach, water and detergent.

This was started last Sunday which saw the Linden Fire Station sanitising Republic Avenue and the Mackenzie Municipal Market with the germ-killing mixture.

On Wednesday eve ning, the exercise continued with the washing of Coop Crescent and the Mackenzie Wharf. Business was not interrupted to facilitate the activity, given the mandate stipulated by the curfew, that all business should be closed by 18:00 hrs, except for supermarkets and pharmacies which should be closed by 19:00 hrs. Businesses have been adhering to this curfew.

In addition, the Linden Mayor and Town Council, in collaboration with the Regional Health Emergency Committee, has installed sinks around the market arena, to encourage hand-washing by vendors, drivers, commuters and shoppers.

These were installed at the Wismar/Mackenzie car park, the Wismar Market and the Mackenzie Wharf and the Georgetown Bus Park.

While these are available

in public spaces, several businesses and agencies had already taken the initiative to install sinks at their respective locations. These include Tropical Reflection, the Regional Democratic Council and J&R Variety store. The community of Coomacka also installed a sink at the entrance to encourage hand-washing by visitors.

Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell, said the LMTC,

in collaboration with the RHEC, will continue to enact proactive measures to tackle COVID- 19 by keeping the environment clean, keeping residents informed, monitoring the operations of businesses around the township as well as how well residents are adapting to the measures implemented.

It has been six days since the curfew has been implemented and officials continue to garner support from residents and the business community.

After two weeks, a decision will be made if it will be extended. There remains no suspected case of coronavirus in Region 10.

City Hall to close all markets until further notice

THE Georgetown Mayor and City Council has made the decision to close all municipal markets, which will take effect from Saturday April 4, 2020, until further notice.

This includes road selling, street vending (including wholesalers/retailers/farmers/night sellers, snackettes, cook shop operators and all other category of food sellers and street vendors) as authorised under Sections 3(1) and 302 (31) (d) of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01.

All market and street-vending operations must cease from Friday April 3, 2020 at 19:00 hours.

Farmers, wholesalers and retailers will be permitted to ply their trade at Stabroek (West of the Guyana Fire Service Building) and Bourda (Merriman’s mall between Orange Walk and Light Street) on Fridays ONLY, from 07:00 hours to 13:00 hours.

The Friday farmers’, wholesalers’ and retailers’ operation will be conducted under strict guidelines for the practice of social distancing.

The M&CC is also seeking the support and cooperation of the public to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus in our city and country at large.

The Bourda Market which was closed on Thursday to facilitate sanitisation (Delano Williams Photos)

The busy Stabroek Market on Thursday, April 2, 2020

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, April 3, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 3, 2020

Cricket statistician of the DuckworthLewis method

dies aged 78 TONY Lewis, the mathematician and statistician who co-devised what became known as the Duckworth-Lewis method for settling weather-affected limited-overs matches, has died at the age of 78.

Lewis and fellow academic Frank Duckworth came together to produce a fairer method of settling such games than the controversial system which had been used at the 1992 World Cup. Their new system was first used in 1997 for a Zimbabwe v England game, and officially adopted by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 1999.

Duckworth-Lewis calculates targets based on the batting team’s remaining resources - wickets in hand, and overs in hand - via mathematical formulae.

In 2014, Australian professor Steven Stern became the custodian of the system, on the retirements of Duckworth and Lewis, and it is now known as the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method.

The England and Wales Cricket Board said in a statement: “Cricket is deeply indebted to both Tony and Frank’s contributions to the sport. We send our sincere condolences to Tony’s family.”

Born in Bolton, Lewis was a lecturer at the University of the West of England when he and Duckworth came together after South Africa’s target in the 1992 World Cup semi-final against England was comically reduced from 22 runs off 13 balls to 22 runs off one ball.

Duckworth explained in 2007: “I recall hearing Christopher Martin-Jenkins on radio saying ‘surely someone, somewhere, could come up with something better’ and I realised that it was a mathematical problem that required a mathematical solution.”

Lewis and Duckworth were appointed MBEs in 2010.

Around the same time, an Irish pop group formed

by Neil Hannon of The Divine Comedy and Thomas Walsh of Pugwash - calling themselves The Duckworth Lewis Method - released two cricket-themed concept albums in 2009 and 2013

25

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 3, 2020

Rankings movement will be gradual, warns Skerritt

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – Cricket West Indies (CWI) president, Ricky Skerritt, has warned that the regional side’s climb up the rankings ladder will be a gradual one, noting he did not anticipate significant change during his first tenure.

West Indies are currently eighth in Tests, ninth in One-Day Internationals and 10th in Twenty20 Internationals, the format in which they are reigning World champions.

The positions represent little change from when Skerritt assumed office in March last year, after beating three-term incumbent Dave Cameron.

West Indies are currently ranked ninth in ODIs. “At no time did we promise a change of rankings within 12 months,” Skerritt told CNC3’s ViewPoint programme.

He added: [We have] to get teams performing at their best in the various types of cricket, male and female, and resulting in a

West Indies are currently ranked ninth in ODIs. significant improvement up the ladder to be at least in the top five.

“I don’t see that happening in the second year either. I see us beginning to make the move up the ladder in the second year but it won’t be jumps, more of one step at a time.”

West Indies’ record has remained a dismal one over the last 12 months, losing two of three Tests, 13 of 24 ODIs and eight of 14 Twenty20 Internationals.

Their one-day form especially remains a major concern with their only two series wins inside the last seven years coming in

recent months against minnows Afghanistan and Ireland.

Skerritt, who along with vice-president Dr Kishore Shallow vowed to tackle a range of governance and developmental issues while in office, said all other achievements would be insignificant if West Indies’ form did not improve during his tenure.

“Obviously nothing that we do for however long will have any sustainable impact without a significant growth in performance and a rise up the ladder in the rankings. We’re very aware of that. I’ve said that openly,” Sker-

ritt stressed.

“If at the end of the day, I leave this office with a much more transparent and accountable organisation that is doing a better job, that pales in comparison for the need for that better job to result in better cricket performances on the field. We’re very aware of that and that is the ultimate objective.”

Since taking over CWI, Skerritt has overseen a complete revamp of the selection system, replaced the senior team’s management unit and commissioned several reviews relating to the organisation’s governance and business structure.

Skerritt, a former Tourism minister in St Kitts, said the administration would focus its efforts over the next year on continuing to overhaul the CWI culture.

“Right now … we’re focussing on getting the organisation to be strong, transparent, accountable and productive,” Skerritt said.

Beckham’s fantastic 50:

Man United hero sets Premier League record but Scholes upstages him

DAVID Beckham scooped a Premier League record when Manchester United made April fools of West Ham 20 years ago this week - but he was still overshadowed by ‘Class of 92’ colleague Paul Scholes.

Beckham set up two goals in a 7-1 savaging to become the youngest player to achieve 50 Premier League assists, and he scored a stunning free-kick too, but Scholes’ hat-trick grabbed the headlines.

Substitute Ole Gunnar Solskjaer got in on the act by finishing off the scoring in a resounding win for Alex Ferguson’s champions-elect over Harry Redknapp’s hangdog Hammers.

United’s match on April 1, 2000, stood out on a number of counts, not least for the fact Paulo Wanchope gave West Ham an early lead. The Costa Rican’s strike was not

quite in the same league as his solo effort for Derby at Old Trafford three years earlier, with United goalkeeper Mark Bosnich caught out this time.

A super Scholes strike and a Denis Irwin tap-in, after the defender’s penalty was saved, nudged United in front, before Beckham brought up his 49th assist with an on-brand cross from the right that was perfect for Andy Cole to head home.

Beckham played a thrilling role in the United onslaught, and his 50th career, helping hand in the top flight was a fine low pass that was trumped by Scholes’ delicious backheel.

The 50-assist landmark, confirmed by Opta statisics, was achieved by Beckham at the age of 24 years and 335 days, and it earned him the record until Cesc Fabregas got to 50 for Arsenal in September 2009 when

David Beckham’s fantastic 50 when Manchester United hero set Premier League record but Scholes upstaged him. just 22 years old.

Scholes lashed home a penalty to complete his hat-trick, before Beckham produced a personal specialty when he curled in a 25yard free-kick.

Solskjaer, the man who now manages the Red Devils, came on to drill the seventh past Craig Forrest, on a rough day for West Ham. Beckham went on to reach 80 assists in the English top flight before leaving for Real Madrid in 2003, and he sits ninth on the Premier League all-time list. (Omnisport)

World Cup hero saving lives during COVID-19 pandemic HE bowled the final over of the 2007 T20 World Cup final. Now Joginder Sharma is policing the streets as India attempts to combat coronavirus.

Joginder Sharma bowled the key final over when India beat arch-rivals Pakistan in the first Twenty20 World Cup cricket final in 2007, but says he faces more pressure as a police officer making sure people stay at home during the coronavirus crisis.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) and others have hailed the efforts of the 36-yearold as he hits the streets of India in his role as an officer of the law.

“Obviously this contribu-

tion is much bigger because people are losing their lives,” Sharma told AFP from Hisar in Haryana where he is now a superintendent.

“It was also a big thing, winning the World Cup for India, but here we have to save the nation. And even if I am playing a small part in this, then it is huge. “Sharma has been leading a team trying to keep people off the streets during a 21-day lockdown ordered by the government to halt the spread of the virus. India has now reported 29 deaths from more than 1 000 cases, but experts believe there are many more.

Thousands of people have

been arrested across the country for flouting the curfew.

The ICC said Sharma had gone from World Cup hero to “real world hero” as it released a picture of the all-rounder in India cricket colours and his khaki police uniform.

In his post-cricket career as a policeman, India’s Joginder Sharma is among those doing their bit amid a global health crisis.

Sharma, who played just four one-day internationals and four T20 matches, said he is using cricket’s spirit of teamwork to tackle the crisis.

“It was the nature of my sport, which is a team game

and players work together to make things happen. So now we have to help each other and the biggest help will be to stay inside our homes,” said Sharma.

“This is the only way to fight coronavirus. Feed the hungry, help the poor. Say no to social gatherings, go out just for getting essentials, but maintain social distance.”

Sharma added that his “extreme fitness levels” and fame also come in handy as an officer on the beat.

“People know me and recognise me and that helps putting my point across. But now I am a police officer and this is my duty.” (Cricket Australia)

Term limits to be addressed soon in Wehby report — Skerritt PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) — Cricket West Indies (CWI) chief Ricky Skerritt has assured the region that presidential term limits are still on the cards and will be addressed once the Wehby Governance report is submitted within the next month.

Skerritt, who assumed the top CWI post exactly a year ago along with vice-president Dr Kishore Shallow had proposed a six-year term limit on the presidency as part of their recommendation for governance reform.

And the CWI president said he expected that issue to be dealt with shortly when Jamaican businessman Don Wehby completed his report.

“You will be hearing, hopefully in another month or so, of the Wehby Governance report,” Skerritt told CNC3’s The Morning Shot programme.

“There have been many governance reports in the past but this one, being led by Don Wehby and four other wise colleagues of his, should be coming forward to Cricket West Indies, at least in its first part, within the next month.

“By the time that makes its rounds and gets accepted either in whole or in part, we will have an element in there that speaks to term limits.”

Wehby was last April named to lead a Task Force on Corporate Governance Reform, charged with the responsibility of examining the CWI structure in order “to achieve greater transparency and accountability to shareholders” in the regional governing body.

The task force includes The University of West Indies vice-chancellor, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Charles Wilkin, QC of St Kitts and Nevis, Jamaican businessman OK Melhado and former West Indies Vice-Captain Deryck Murray.

Skerritt and Shallow have contended that term limits to the presidency removed “uncertainty and anxiety caused by the cricket politics and excesses that too often surround the office of president”.

The area of governance is the latest to be tackled by the new administration following a year which saw an overhaul of the selection process and a change of men’s white ball captain and management team.

Skerritt, a former St Kitts and Nevis cabinet minister, said his administration was focussed squarely on continuing to implement its agenda over the next several months.

“We’re very focussed, very committed to making progress on all fronts, trying everything we could to bring improvement in the way we do business,” he stressed.

“We’re trying to make it a more productive and efficient organisation and trying to get some financial sustainability, and trying to get enthusiasm and optimism up in the stakeholder groups and especially the players.”

While the Skerritt administration has come under fire for several of its decisions, he said he was still enjoying the role as president.

“I always enjoy cricket. I enjoy doing whatever I can and whatever I can to bring support and resources to cricket,” he pointed out.

“Cricket has been my life as a hobby and now in a very responsible position as chairman. The stress has been there but we’ve managed it fairly well.”

COVID-19 pandemic forces suspension of several CONCACAF programmes IN a correspondence to its Member Associations, CONCACAF has suspended its Regional C Licence Coaching Course (Honduras) Domestic D Licence Coaching Course (Nicaragua), CONCACAF-English FA Coach Education Mentorship Programme Phase 2 (Grenada), CONCACAF Coach Education Panel (Miami) and the Domestic D Licence Coaching Course in Puerto Rico.

According to a release from the Confederation, their Next Play Academy Festival In Guatemala (April 4), Domestic D Licence Coaching Course in Dominican Republic (April 14-18) and their Regional B Licence Course For Technical Development Directors/Leaders of Coach Education which was scheduled for Jamaica (April 27-May 3) has also been suspended.

CONCACAF said that they hope to reschedule the listed activities to alternative dates later in the year and noted that “all decisions concerning rescheduling of the above activities would be made in close consultation with all participating and hosting Member Associations for each of the respective events.

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 3, 2020

Play your part, health minister tells Premier League stars

By Alan Baldwin

LONDON, England (Reuters) - Premier League soccer players need to take a pay cut and “play their part” as Britain battles the coronavirus pandemic, health minister Matt Hancock said yesterday.

Players’ wages, with the game’s biggest stars paid far more per week than the average Briton earns in years, have become a hot topic after some clubs furloughed non-playing employees under a government job retention scheme.

One parliamentary committee head earlier called for a windfall tax on clubs who failed to tackle the “obscene situation”.

“I think everybody needs to play their part in this national effort and that means Premier League footballers too,” Hancock said, highlighting the sacrifices made

by National Health Service workers who had caught the disease and died.

“The first thing that Premier League footballers can do is make a contribution, take a pay cut.”

Julian Knight, a member for the ruling Conservative party who chairs the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) Committee, wrote to finance minister Rishi Sunak urging action.

“We are facing an obscene situation where top players who aren’t working are continuing to see hundreds of thousands of pounds roll in each week while the staff who keep the clubs going are losing wages,” he said.

“If the Premier League isn’t going to act to resolve this crisis then the Government must step in by imposing a significant financial penalty on clubs to reimburse those hit hardest in the pocket.”

Knight set a Tuesday deadline for clubs to “do the right thing ... or face the consequences”.

Matt Hancock has demanded Premier League stars play their part in the fight against coronavirus and ‘take a pay cut’.

Professional football in England has been suspended until April 30, at the earliest, due to the pandemic with some top-flight clubs putting non-playing staff on leave.

PUBLIC SENTIMENT Sky News reported that senior figures wanted the Premier League’s 20 clubs to agree to a blanket wage cut of up to 25% at a meeting to be held by video conference today.

That, however, was only

one of a range of options for wages which were due to be discussed, Sky added.

The PFA players’ union said it hoped to reach an agreement with the Premier League and was aware of the public sentiment.

“However, our current position is that - as businesses - if clubs can afford to pay their players and staff, they should,” it added.

The PFA said players did not want to see club staff treated unfairly and recognised “any use of the gov-

ernment’s support schemes without genuine financial need is detrimental to the wider society”.

It added, however, that “in instances where clubs have the resources to pay all staff, the benefit of players paying non-playing staff salaries will only serve the business of the club’s shareholders”.

Norwich City said their players and management had agreed to donate a percentage of their salaries, amounting to more than £200 000 ($247 000), to help those affected by the virus.

“As a group of players, we wanted to stand up and do our bit,” captain Grant Hanley told the club website (www.canaries.co.uk).

The managers of Bournemouth and Brighton & Hove Albion have also taken voluntary three-month pay cuts.

Others, such as last season’s losing Champions League finalists Totten-

ham Hotspur who imposed a 20% pay cut on 550 non-playing staff, have said they hoped players would end up “doing their bit”.

Former England and Tottenham striker Gary Lineker, who has donated two months of his BBC presenter’s salary to the British Red Cross, said highly-paid footballers were an easy target.

“There are lots of other people in society who earn huge money - billionaires, CEOs on huge money,” he said. “I hope it’s not just footballers who are targeted.

Football will, and should, do something.”

Knight said the Premier League should be “role modelling a responsible approach” along the lines of European rivals.

Players at a number of top continental clubs, including Italian and Spanish heavyweights Juventus and Barcelona, have agreed temporary pay cuts.

‘There may be no more tennis this year’, says Wimbledon chief Lewis

All England Lawn Tennis Club chief executive Richard Lewis

LONDON, England (Reuters) Tennis may not return until 2021 after the coronavirus pandemic caused the cancellation of the entire grass-court season and most of the clay-court campaign, All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) chief executive Richard Lewis said yesterday.

The outbreak has played havoc with the global sporting calendar and the Wimbledon championships were cancelled by the AELTC on Wednesday for the first time since the Second World War.

Lewis, who is set to step down in July, said he hoped the situation will stabilise in the coming months to allow the hard-court season to get underway before the U.S. Open begins on August 24.

“The optimist in me - and I’m often not optimistic - still hopes that the American hard-court season will take place,” Lewis said.

“One hopes that things have settled down a bit and those big 1000-point tournaments - Montreal, Toronto, Cincinnati - can happen in the lead-up to the U.S. Open. We

all know that’s probably tenuous at the moment.

“I don’t think it’s unrealistic to say that there may be no more tennis this year. But let’s hope that the U.S. Open and Roland Garros can take place.”

The French Open, originally due to be played from May 24 to June 7, was postponed and controversially rescheduled by the French tennis federation for September 20 - October. 4 - a week after the U.S. Open concludes.

Top players, including eight-

time champion Roger Federer and seven-time winner Serena Williams, expressed their disappointment at not being able to play at Wimbledon this year.

The two 38-year-olds are nearing the end of their careers and Lewis is hoping they will return to the All England Club in 2021.

“We’d love to see both of them back,” Lewis said. “It’s something to look forward to, and we’ll hopefully enjoy it all the more, a silver lining to come out of it.”

Jordan, third Barbadian athlete to die in the past month - Barbados Athletics WHEN Barbadian OIympian Pearson Jordan died

last Saturday, March 28, from COVID-19, he was

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one of three sportsmen from that country to have died in the past month.

According to the Athletics Association of Barbados (AAB), ‘Bim’ lost Louis Trotman and Jeffrey Howell as well.

“Pearson ‘PG’ Jordan, a past student of the Coleridge and Parry School, hailed from Speightstown and was a member of the Super Stars Athletic Club,” the AAB said in a statement.

“Pearson represented Barbados at the 1976 Montreal Olympics in the 100m and the 4x100m Relay with Rawle Clarke, Pearson Trot-

Trotman won an athletic scholarship to Fisk University in the United States and on returning to Barbados, he had a long career as a Chemistry and Physics teacher, at the Fredrick Smith Secondary School. He also had a passion for photography. He was Barbadian OIympian Pearson Jordan died last Saturday.

66. man and Hamil Grimes. 3000m.

Jeffrey Howell was In the 1974 CARIFTA a sprinter, who was the Pearson gained an athletic scholarship to LSU in the Games in Kingston, Jamai- driving force in the Royal USA and on completion of ca, he won the gold med- Barbados Police Force his education he continued al in the 1500m in a time athletics team. He served of 4.04.0 minutes. He also both as an athlete and to reside in the USA. Louis Trotman was won the silver medal in the manager during the sevwell known for his perfor- 3000m in a time of 9:11.19 enties and early eighties. mances in the 1500m and minutes.

(Sportsmax)

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday April 3, 2020

Skerritt says working capital among financial challenges for CWI PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Ricky Skerritt has painted a challenging portrait of the governing body’s finances, pointing to a shortage of working capital as a continued problem while underscoring the need to secure sustainable revenue streams.

Speaking last week on the one-year anniversary of taking up the helm of the embattled organisation, Skerritt said the board had continued to suffer from a legacy of over-spending without finding a means of off-setting costs.

Additionally, vital new broadcast deals still remained up in the air, depriving CWI of key revenue, while other income had fallen short of projections.

“West Indies cricket has been suffering for some time from a shortage of working capital. Basically we spend more money than we earn most years,” Skerritt said.

“When we earn more than we spend it’s usually small amounts. We’ve had an approach where we always spent

money we thought was coming in advance of it coming, and sometimes the money that came wasn’t quite what we expected.”

Skerritt, a former tourism minister in St Kitts and Nevis, said grants from cricket’s world governing body, the International Cricket Council (ICC), was a prime example.

“We had been told that the ICC would be granting us a total of US$128M over a seven-year period … well the ICC earnings fell a little bit and instead of getting US$128M over seven years, we’re going to be getting US$119M over the same period,” Skerritt pointed out.

“So that means West Indies was expecting an additional US$9M, which we probably wouldn’t get, but which we’ve pretty much already spent.”

Much of the recent cost has surrounded the acquisition of the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua, formerly the old Stanford Cricket Ground.

CWI chief executive Johnny Grave said last month the board had been forced to use its “operating cash flow” to complete the

The Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua purchase.

Skerritt explained that undertaking this venture without having a solid base of capital had obviously had a significant impact.

“Part of it (income) was spent on purchasing the Coolidge Cricket Ground and that money has had to go to complete the sale of Coolidge

Cricket Ground,” he noted.

“The purchase was completed without having the kind of capitalisation that we needed to have, without having any long-term money so that has pulled money out of our working capital.”

CWI’s fixed costs, Skerritt explained, stood at around US$45M and this was serviced

DaSilva’s composure, form impresses Harper

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Trinidadian Joshua DaSilva’s batting during the recent domestic first class championship has not gone unnoticed by West Indies convenor of selectors, Roger Harper.

The 21-year-old emerged from the eight-round tournament with 507 runs at an average of 50 to top Trinidad and Tobago Red Force’s batting, to be the only player to exceed the 500-run mark.

Harper said what had impressed him most was the right-hander’s comfort against both pace and spin, along with his poise in pressure situations.

“He batted very well throughout the tournament. It was a little disappointing that he wasn’t able to just kick on and get at least another hundred,” Harper said.

“But he got a hundred in the Super50 for the Emerging Players and he has shown he’s got the ability to perform consistently and what is the thing that struck me about the young man is his composure – he looked very organised and composed against all types of bowling.

“The pacers and the spin

Joshua DaSilva emerged with 507 runs at an average of 50 to top Red Force batting.

bowling, even under pressure he seemed to handle them very well. He probably just needs to look at the way he plays the medium pacers but I’m very impressed with his performance.”

DaSilva, who also kept wicket for Red Force, made his first class debut last season, featuring in eight

matches but struggling with an average of 21 and just 348 runs.

He redeemed himself during last year’s Super50 Cup, leading the batting for Emerging Players with an average of 44 as the development side produced a stunning upset to win the competition.

His unbeaten hundred in

the opening round of the first class championship set the tone for the season as he went on to add three half-centuries to his tally.

However, Harper said he wanted to see the region’s batsmen compile big scores, not just fifties.

“It is something we have to work on. Our players have to learn how to convert starts to half-centuries and half-centuries to centuries – and I think sometimes they get a little bit lost having completed a half-century,” the former Guyana and West Indies off-spinner said.

“But these are things we have to work on. They are part of the mental skills we have to develop. They are areas we sometimes ignore – we just look at our ability to strike the ball and that sort of thing – but our mental skills is an important area which we need to work a little more.

“I think if we do that, we will get more of the type of results we’re looking for, especially our batsmen, they’ll be able to convert and produce the bigger scores that we’re looking for.”

largely by ICC moneys and broadcast revenue.

But with CWI belatedly entering the market to renew its broadcast deal last year, Skerritt said the board had found itself disadvantaged.

“The broadcast rights money expired in December last year and we still do not have completed negotiations with most

countries …,” he said.

“One, you should really enter the market about two years before the end of the (deal) to start negotiating and trying to cajole and to convince the broadcasters to do business with you.

“We didn’t go to the market till around the same time I became president last year (March) so we’ve not had enough time in the (market and to make it worse, the market has become very, very uncertain.

“So revenues which under normal circumstances we would have already begun collecting from broadcast rights, we have not done as yet.”

Skerritt said CWI would continue to navigate choppy financial waters going forward.

“Revenues continue to decline, expenses are fixed and even when you try to reduce some of the administrative or operational costs, you still have payrolls that exceed US$1.5M per month to cover players, et cetera and other fixed costs that just won’t go away.”

World Games postponed to 2022 to avoid Tokyo Olympics clash (REUTERS) - The 2021 World Games have been pushed back by a year to avoid clashing with the Tokyo Olympics which were rescheduled due to the coronavirus pandemic, World Games organisers said yesterday.

The World Games, which are held every four years and feature 32 sports that are not part of the Olympic programme, were scheduled to take place in Birmingham, Alabama, from July 15 to 25 next year but have now been postponed to July 7-17, 2022.

Organisers said that the decision to move the Tokyo Olympics to 2021 made a significant impact on the planning of the World Games and sticking to the original dates would have meant excluding many Olympic athletes and officials.

“A great deal of detailed work is now required to implement this decision, but I am impressed by the flexibility and efficiency of the Birmingham Organising Committee,” International World Games Association (IWGA) president Jose Perurena said.

The international event was set to host 3 600 athletes from over 100 countries to take part in a variety of sports such as martial arts, bowling, squash, billiards and even wheelchair rugby.

“All organisational main pillars such as venues and accommodation are in place for 2022, and we are able to have exactly the same sports programme as we had planned for 2021,” IWGA CEO Joachim Gossow added.

Term limits to be addressed soon in \Wehby report — Skerritt PAGE 25

CWI president Ricky was.a former St Kitts and Nevis Cabinet minister

Football will be totally different after coronavirus - FIFA boss ROME, Italy (Reuters) - Football will be totally different when it eventually resumes after the coronavirus outbreak, the head of global soccer body FIFA Gianni Infantino said yesterday.

“Football will come back, and when it does, we’ll celebrate coming out of a nightmare together,” he told the Italian news agency ANSA in an interview.

“There is one lesson, however, that both you and I must have understood: the football that will come after the virus will be totally different ... (more) inclusive, more social and more supportive, connected to the individual countries and at the

President Gianni Infantino during the UEFA Congress at Beurs van Berlage Conference Centre, Amsterdam, Netherlands - March 3, 2020. (FIFA REUTERS/Yves Herman)

same time more global, less arrogant and more welcoming.”

He added: “We will be better, more human and more attentive to true values.”

Last week, Infantino told Gazzetta dello Sport that it was the right time to take a step back and reform a sport where fixture lists have become overloaded and financial resources increasingly concentrated in the hands of a few elite clubs.

He suggested there could be “fewer, but more interesting tournaments. Maybe fewer squads, but more balanced - fewer, but more competitive matches to safeguard the health of the players.”

Tony Lewis (right) and Frank Duckworth received their MBEs in 2010 for services to mathematics and cricket.

PAGE 24

Cricket statistician of the Duckworth-Lewis method dies aged 78

A rain-affected England v India one-day international at Lord’s in 2011 finished as a tie after England matched, but failed to overtake, the Duckworth/Lewis par score when rain ended play.

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