Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 09-08-2021

MONDAY 9th August, 2021

' No.106448

Granger tapped the phones of 03 Lawrence, Harmon and Trotman PAGE

–– Jagdeo alleges, says there were many backdoor manoeuvres to prevent the effective execution of recount

Former President, David Granger

Former Ministry of the Presidency Director-General, Joseph Harmon

$18M from Gordon Street heist found buried at suspect’s residence 13

Former Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman

Former Public Health Minister and PNCR Chairperson, Volda Lawrence

Three massive outfall channels for Regions 3, 5 and 6 02 PAGE

PAGE

‘25 Influential Women 11 Leaders Awards’ returns PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

Three massive outfall channels for Regions 3, 5 and 6 –– says President Ali, as he commits to improved drainage in South Georgetown

By Rehana Ahamad GUYANA’S ongoing floods have highlighted, once more, the need for improved drainage infrastructure in most parts of the country.

Acknowledging the deficiencies that exist, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has committed to the construction of three major outfall channels in Regions Three, Five and Six. During a recent address to the nation, the Head of State said that the new channels will be similar to the $3.6 billion

Northern Relief Channel which was constructed at Hope/Dochfour, East Coast Demerara. The massive eight-door Region Four, Demerara-Mahaica drainage structure was conceptualised and constructed by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government, prior to it demitting office in 2015.

Initially, when the project came on stream, it was heavily criticised by members of the then A Partnership for National Unity + AFC (APNU+AFC) Opposition.

However, fast forward

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali (Office of the President photo) more than a decade later, the Hope Canal is being hailed as the saviour that safeguarded Region Four from experiencing the full brunt of the ongoing floods which have devastated some 300 communities across the country.

In some areas, water levels had even surpassed 16 feet, completely covering homes and vehicles, etcetera.

nent outfall has been key to releasing excess water into the Atlantic Ocean, at times when the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) reaches

maximum capacity. The conservancy is basically a reservoir that holds up to 582 square kilometers of fresh water, which had long been susceptible to overtopping.

Ever since the Hope Canal was put to the test in 2015, the authorities had lauded the channel’s capabilities of drastically lowering water levels in the overburdened conservancy, which was also being served by an insufficient release channel located at Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara.

Back in May, when floodwaters had just begun to rise, President Ali visited the eight-gated outfall channel to ensure that all was being done to tackle the ongoing floods. “If this canal was not here now, the East Coast [of De-

merara] would have been under water,” President Ali recognised.

Even now, three months into the floods, only communities outside of Region Four have been severely affected by flooding.

At that time, reaffirming the critical role that the Hope Canal had played in protecting Region Four from much devastation, President Ali pointed to the need for similar waterways to be constructed in various parts of the country.

In an earlier interview with the Guyana Chronicle, former Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, had expressed satisfaction with regard to the operations See page 3

SAVIOUR It was previously pointed out that had it not been for Hope Canal, the majority of villages along the coastland would have been devastated with floodwaters, much like they were in 2005, when boats had become the main form of transportation.

Over the past few years, The $3.6 billion Northern Relief Channel at Hope/Dochfour, East Coast Demerara the iconic, multi-compo- (Office of the President photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

Granger tapped the phones of Lawrence, Harmon and Trotman –– alleges Jagdeo

DURING the recount of the March 2 General and Regional Elections, then President, David Granger reportedly tapped the phones of his comrades - Volda Lawrence, Joseph Harmon and Raphael Trotman - according to Vice-President, Bharrat Jagdeo.

In an interview with the Newsroom’s Insider programme on Friday, Jagdeo reflected on the 2020 elections which he said saw a blatant attempt, by the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC), to sabotage not only the elections, but the recount of the votes as well.

“We discovered, after we got into office, that President Granger may not have trusted the leadership of APNU…. He (Granger) got the security forces to tap the phone of Harmon, Trotman and Volda Lawrence,” Jagdeo said.

He hinted that even though the then President Granger had approved the recount, there were “hundreds of behind the scenes” issues that served as attempts to prevent the effective execution of the exercise.

“We probably didn’t sleep for 24 hours (some days),” Jagdeo said in the interview.

Referring to Granger as an “aloof” leader, Jagdeo believes the trio - Lawrence, Harmon and Trotman - were particularly worried about the recount of the votes cast on March 2, 2020.

As it is, there have been numerous reports of a split in the APNU; more specifically, it has been alleged that there are efforts to remove Granger from the helm of the party, owing to claims of him being a “dictatorial” leader.

More notably, it was alleged that several executives of the People’s National Congress (PNC) had been working on No-Confidence

“They knew of the rigging, but they [the international observers] had not looked at the real SoPs [Statement of Polls] as yet,” Jagdeo said.

Since the elections, several persons have been charged for their roles in the alleged electoral fraud. Chief among them is the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield; his deputy, Roxanne Myers; and the District Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo.

Lowenfield is faced with three counts of

Livan, were also charged. They are all accused of inflating the results of Region Four, Guyana’s largest voting district, to give the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition a majority win at the March 2, 2020 polls, when in fact the PPP/C had won by 15,000 votes.

Based on the events of the 2020 elections, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, has insisted that it is not wise for Guyana to have any other elections over which Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo are allowed to preside.

It is for this reason that the Head of State has refrained from announcing a date for the country’s Local Government Elections, even though $1.1 billion has already been budgeted in 2021 for this purpose.

STILL ON THE JOB It has been almost 17 months since the See page 9

Vice-President, Bharrat Jagdeo Motions geared at removing Granger from his leadership position.

These claims have since been rubbished by the PNC, which claimed that the party is as solid as it has ever been.

NOTHING TO HIDE Jagdeo, a former President, reminded that when allegations relating to the integrity of the votes were raised, the then President (Granger) expressed claims relating to the integrity of the votes cast in Regions Three, Four and Five. To this end, Jagdeo said that the People’s Progressive Party /Civic agreed to a full recount of all of the votes since the then Opposition “had nothing to hide”.

Jagdeo said that even though the international community had concerns relating to the integrity of the votes cast, the observers were not prepared to recognise the PPP/C as winners of the elections; at least not until it was officially declared via a recount.

Former President, David Granger Misconduct in Public Office and three counts of Forgery, while Mingo was charged with four counts of Misconduct in Public Office and Myers with two counts of Misconduct in Public Office.

In addition to Lowenfield, Mingo and Myers, Chairperson of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Volda Lawrence; Opposition activist, Carol Joseph; the CEO’s clerks, Michelle Miller and Denise Bob-Cummings; Elections Officer, Shefern February, and Information Technology Officer, Enrique

Former Ministry of the Presidency Director-General, Joseph Harmon

Three massive outfall channels ...

From page 2

of the Northern Relief Channel, which was constructed and operationalised during his tenure as a member of the PPP/C cabinet.

Even at that time, Dr. Ramsammy said that the then government had every intention of constructing a Hope-Canallike structure at Black Bush Polder, Region Six (East Berbice – Corentyne), as a means of eliminating perpetual flooding being experienced by residents there, particularly farmers.

As a matter of fact, in 2013, the PPP/C Government had commenced the construction of a $400 million two-door koker intended to serve the areas of Bengal and Johanna which continues to be highly susceptible to

flooding.

PROJECT ABANDONED After the APNU+AFC took office, the Region Six project was abandoned, and, as it is, that remains one of the regions that have been more severely affected by the floods.

Nonetheless, in addition to the three new outfall channels, President Ali also pointed to a massive project which will bring relief to South Georgetown residents who have also struggled for years with persistent flooding. “Planning will commence soon,” Dr. Ali said, as he shared his government’s plan to construct a new drainage system and other

infrastructure to facilitate the constant drainage of possible flood waters in South Georgetown. “… at the same time other areas of the City will also benefit from significant investment to mitigate against flooding and enhanced infrastructure,” President Ali said. He maintained that he and the government “Believe strongly that future generations in Guyana and that of the world depend on sustainable development”.

Meanwhile, during a previous interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, said that the ongoing floods have underscored the need for Guyana to pursue infrastructural transformation in a manner that is climate-resilient, especially as it

relates to flooding. “Those considerations existed before these floods, but this experience now has made those necessities more pronounced, because you are now able to see how fragile these structures are, and how easily they can be destroyed.” Edghill posited.

He said that since the floods began in May, the country has suffered billions of dollars in damages to public infrastructure. In providing more specifics, the minister indicated the need for Guyana to replace all of its wooden bridges and culverts with sturdy concrete structures.

“We have to make up our minds.

It is going to cost a lot, but we got to start building them in concrete,” Edghill said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

UN to reveal landmark climate report findings THE world's largest ever report into climate change will be published later, setting out the stark reality of the state of the planet.

The study is by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change - a UN group that looked at 14,000 scientific papers.

It will be the most up-todate assessment of how global warming will change the world in the coming decades.

Scientists say it will likely be bad news - but with "nuggets of optimism".

And environmental experts have said it will be a "massive wake-up call" to governments to cut emissions.

The last time the IPCC looked at the science of global warming was in 2013 - and scientists believe they have learnt a lot more since then.

In recent years, the world has seen record-breaking temperatures, raging wildfires and devastating flood-

ing.

Some papers studied by the panel show that some of the changes humans are inadvertently making to the climate will not be reversed for hundreds or maybe thousands of years.

The IPCC's findings -which will be revealed at a press conference at 09:00 BST -- will also be used during a major summit hosted by the UK in November.

The summit, COP26, which is run by the UN, is seen as a critical moment if climate change is going to be brought under control. Leaders from 196 countries will meet to try and agree action.

Alok Sharma, the UK minister who is leading the summit, said at the weekend that the world was almost running out of time to avoid catastrophe - and the effects of climate change were already happening.

Prof Piers Forster, an expert in climate change from

Monday August 9, 2021 04:00hrs - 05:30hrs

Wildfires have been burning in Greece in recent days (BBC photo) the University of Leeds, said the report "will be able to say a whole lot more about the extremes we are experiencing today and it will be able to be categoric that our emissions of greenhouse gases are causing them and they are also going to get worse".

"The report will come with quite a lot of bad news about where we are and where we're going, but there are going to be nuggets of optimism in there which I think are really good for the climate change negotiations," he told LBC. One of the causes for optimism he mentioned was that there is still a chance of keeping global warming to below 1.5 degrees.

Experts say the impacts of climate change are far more severe when the increase is greater than 1.5C.

So far, global temperatures have climbed to 1.2C above pre-industrial levels.

The Paris climate agreement in 2015 established the goal of keeping the increase in the global average temperature to no more than 2C and to try not to surpass 1.5C. Richard Black, from non-profit organisation the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, said: "Coming just before COP26, this report is a massive wake-up call to all those governments that have not yet put forward realistic plans to cut emissions over the next decade.

"It will show that choices made now have a big effect on our future - leading to a runaway world of wild weather impacts and incalculable risks at one end, and at the other a future where

climate change is constrained within manageable bounds."

According to many observers, there have been significant improvements in the science in the last few years.

"Our models have gotten better, we have a better understanding of the physics and the chemistry and the biology, and so they're able to simulate and project future temperature changes and precipitation changes much better than they were," said Dr Stephen Cornelius from WWF, an observer at IPCC meetings.

"Another change has been that attribution sciences have increased vastly in the last few years. We can make greater links between climate change and extreme weather events."

As well as updates on temperature projections,

there will likely be a strong focus on the question of humanity's role in creating the climate crisis.

In the last report in 2013, the IPCC said that humans were the "dominant cause" of global warming since the 1950s.

The message in the latest report is expected to be even stronger, with warnings of how soon global temperatures could rise 1.5C above pre-industrial levels. Experts say the impacts of climate change are far more severe when the increase is greater than 1.5C. It is expected that this time the IPCC will also outline just how much of an influence humans are having on the oceans, the atmosphere and other aspects of our planetary systems.

One of the most important questions concerns sea-level rise. This has long been a controversial issue for the IPCC, with their previous projections scorned by some scientists as far too conservative.

"In the past they have been so reluctant to give a plausible upper limit on sea-level rise, and we hope that they finally come around this time," said Professor Arthur Petersen, from UCL in London.

As the world has experienced a series of devastating fires and floods in recent months that have been linked to climate change, the report will also include a new chapter linking extreme weather events to rising temperatures. (BBC)

Saudi Arabia to permit entry to vaccinated Umrah pilgrims SAUDI Arabia is to begin accepting vaccinated foreign visitors to the holy city of Mecca as part of the Umrah pilgrimage.

The authorities will begin taking travel requests from Monday.

The kingdom closed its borders some 18 months ago because of the coronavirus pandemic. Since August 1, vaccinated foreign tourists are also allowed in.

Last month, only around 60,000 vaccinated

residents were allowed to take part in a scaled-down Hajj.

The Hajj is a pilgrimage to Mecca that Muslims who are able to must perform at least once in their lifetime. It takes place at a set time of year: in 2022, it will run from July 7 to 12.

The Umrah pilgrimage can be undertaken at any time of the year and attracts millions from around the world. Pilgrims may also visit the holy city of Medina.

Saudi Arabia will initially allow 60,000 pilgrims to perform the pilgrimage each month, gradually increasing numbers to reach two million people a month, the state Saudi Press Agency (SPA) says.

Saudi Arabia recognises the following vaccines: Pfizer/BioNTech, Oxford-AstraZeneca, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson.

Foreign visitors will also have to agree to undergo quarantine if nec-

essary, the SPA quotes deputy hajj minister Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat as saying.

The country has recorded nearly 532,000 coronavirus cases and more than 8,300 deaths.

Separately, it has also said it will begin compensating the families of health workers who died because of the coronavirus, state media reported.

Last year, it said each would receive 500,000 riyals ($133,000; £96,000).

(BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

Climate change: Low-income countries 'can't keep up' with impacts LOW-income countries are struggling to protect themselves against climate change, officials and experts have told the BBC. Organisations representing 90 countries say that their plans to prevent damage have already been outpaced by climate-induced disasters, which are intensifying and happening more regularly.

The UN says the number of developing countries with climate adaptation plans has increased. But it stresses that there's limited evidence these plans have reduced any risks.

"We need to adapt our

have brought.

"We used to see category four hurricanes, so that's what we have prepared for with our adaptation plans, but now we are being hit by category five hurricanes," says Diann Black Layner, chief climate negotiator for the Alliance of Small Island States.

"Category five hurricanes bring winds as strong as 180 miles per hour which the roofs cannot withstand because it creates stronger pressure inside our houses," she said.

FALLING SEAWALLS

tlements even displaced some locals."

Although it's rare to see so many storms in such a short space of time, experts say sea storms have been growing in strength.

Studies suggest tropical cyclones have become more intense in the past 40 years, but an increase in the overall number of cyclones has not been established.

UGANDA'S MOUNTAIN MENACE In Uganda, communities in the Rwenzori region have been trying to

Pacific island countries say their defences against rising seas and cyclones are proving to be increasingly weak (BBC/GETTY IMAGES) plans to the worsening climate crisis. Our existing plans are not enough to protect our people," says Sonam Wangdi, chair of the UN's Least Developed Countries (LDC) Group on climate change.

Their call for action comes as the UN's climate science body prepares to publish its latest assessment on Monday about the state of global warming.

The report, compiled by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, will provide a scientific assessment of current and future climate change, and be a key reference for policymakers at the UN climate summit in Glasgow this November.

IN PACIFIC ISLANDS Several Pacific Island countries were hit by three cyclones between the middle of 2020 and January 2021.

"After those three cyclones, communities in the northern part of our country have seen the sea walls built as part of their adaptation plans crumbling," says Vani Catanasiga, head of the Fiji Council of Social Services - a group representing Fijian NGOs in the country's Disaster Management Council.

"The water and the wind repeatedly battering the set-

protect themselves from landslides and floods by digging trenches and planting trees, helping to prevent soil erosion.

But it has not always been a success.

"The rains have become so intense that we have seen huge, sudden floods sweeping away these defences," said Jackson Muhindo, a local climate change and resilience coordinator for Oxfam.

"As a result, there have been multiple landslides on mountain slopes which have buried settlements and farms," he adds.

Climate experts say houses in the Caribbean countries are unable to stand against category five hurricanes (BBC/GETTY IMAGES) "Adaptation works Under the UN climate found that only 21% of that based on soil conservation convention, the EU and 23 money was provided for are proving to be increas- developed countries have adapting to climate impacts, ingly useless in the wake pledged to make $100bn while most went towards of these extreme weather available every year to fund cutting carbon emissions. events." climate-related projects in Developing countries developing nations - like have criticised climate fiADAPTATION LOW ON schemes to cut emissions, nance figures provided by THE AGENDA and adaptations to mitigate developed world, pointThe UN Framework damage caused by weath- ing out they also include Convention on Climate er-induced disasters. money from regular aid Change says more than From 2020, this money payments.

80% of developing coun- will be passed on through Some experts say adaptries have begun formulat- the Green Climate Fund, tation plans have been haming and implementing their Global Environment Facility pered by politics. national adaptation plans. and other such agencies. But "When you have other But a study by the Inter- developing countries argue issues like [bad] governational Institute for Envi- that promise has largely been nance, poverty and now ronment and Development unkept. A report by the Or- Covid, it becomes very (IIED), published last month, ganisation for Economic Co- difficult for the plans to suggests that the 46 of the operation and Development work. They simply aren't a world's least-developed (OECD) showed developed government's priority," accountries don't have the fi- countries had made nearly cording to Carlos Aguilar, a nancial means to "climate $80bn available in 2018 as climate adaptation expert proof" themselves. total climate finance. But it with Oxfam. (BBC) The IIED says these countries need at least $40bn (£28.8bn; €33.8bn) a year for their adaptation plans. But between 2014-18, just $5.9 billion of adaptation finance was received.

CHAOS IN THE CARIBBEAN Last year, the Caribbean had a record-breaking 30 tropical storms - including six major hurricanes.

The World Meteorological Organisation says the region is still recovering.

On islands like Antigua and Barbuda, experts say that many buildings have been unable to withstand the Developing countries say adaptation has not been a priority issue among their intense winds these storms wealthier counterparts (BBC/GETTY IMAGES)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

Tajeram Mohabir

Assault on Democracy PRIME MINISTER of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, is recovering after being hit on the head with an object by a protester as he was walking through a group of protesters to get into Parliament.

According to media reports, the white shirt of the Prime Minister 'turned red' as blood streaked down. He was immediately rushed to the hospital where he was treated and then flown to a Barbados hospital where he underwent several tests.

The Prime Minister was reportedly hit on the head with a stone by a protester who, along with others, was protesting some impending changes to the law to make it mandatory for frontline workers to be vaccinated against illnesses such as the COVID-19 disease that has now become a national emergency.

Fortunately, according to reports, the blow did not result in any neurological harm but he suffered a concussion along with experiencing headaches and bouts of dizziness.

The words emanating from Prime Min-

ister Gonsalves after the attack was that of a true and genuine Statesman who, despite the harm inflicted on him, was not looking for revenge. Instead, he called on the law to take its course, especially given the fact that the action could have been potentially fatal.

The protest action was organised by unions representing nurses, police and other workers who feared that that the COVID-19 vaccines would be made mandatory. It is unfortunate that an action that was intended to promote the national good was misconstrued and manipulated by politicians from the opposite side of the political divide to generate fear in the population.

The Prime Minister could not have put it better when he said that 'we can have our disagreements, but to cross the line into violence is unacceptable in a democratic world'. Indeed, Prime Minister, Dr. Gonsalves has himself garnered a reputation as a strong advocate for democracy and democratic rule not only in his country but in the wider Caribbean. His stance on the issue of free and fair elections in Guyana will forever be etched in the minds of the

Guyanese people and for that matter the region as a whole.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves is no newcomer to St. Vincent and the Grenadines and for that matter Caribbean politics.

He served as Chairman of the Caribbean Community and is the longest continuously serving Head of Government since the country became independent in 1979. He is also the Leader of the Unity Labour Party (ULP). He became Prime Minister after his party won a majority in the 2001 general election. Under his leadership, the ULP continued to win a majority of the popular vote in every election from 1998 to 2020 when he was sworn in for his fifth term as Prime Minister.

Several regional personalities have condemned the attack on Prime Minister Gonsalves, including Sir Ronald Sanders, Ambassador of the Organisation of American States (OAS), who is quoted as saying that such a development in Caribbean politics is most reprehensible.

The attack on the Prime Minister is not simply an attack on him as an individual but

an attack on free speech and, at a much broader level, an attack on democracy and free speech. This is most reprehensible. Indeed, there can be no place for such actions and behaviour in a modern and civilised world where people are singled out for attacks based on considerations of politics and race. As the saying goes, 'words are winds, but blows are unkind', more so when such blows are directed at political leaders of the stature of Dr. Gonsalves whose commitment to democracy and the rule of law is second to none in his country and the region as a whole.

The attack on Prime Minister, Dr. Gonsalves must be condemned by all those who cherish the ideals of freedom, democracy and the rule of law. The law should take its course and the perpetrator of the act and its intellectual authors should be condignly dealt with in accordance with the law.

This should be done not only to serve as a deterrent for others who may be so inclined, but to also make the point that there is zero tolerance for violence in a democratic and law governed society.

One year of commendable achievements Dear Editor, AS the notorious trio, Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield; Deputy Elections Officer, Roxanne Myers and Region #4 Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo are struggling for their mere survival, again the PNC is using the Judiciary, the Courts to delay the inevitable.

All eyes are on the immediate dismissal of the trio.

The PPP/C Government, under the astute leadership of President, Dr Irfaan Ali, brought back life, with a vision and genuine unity as progress continues nationwide. The first anniversary did not bring pomp and celebration. However, it cannot be denied that the PPP/C ministers and Members of Parliament, along with roots supports on the ground that is the regional and Neighborhood Democrats Councillors are very visible in the communities. The PPP/C under the dynamic leadership of General-Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo is certainly strengthening themselves among the masses as they are delivering and providing for our people of all walks of life. The PPP/C leaders are on the

ground and even the COVID- 19 effects and the flood cannot prevent our leaders from walking the walk with our people.

The PNC legacy of not accounting to this nation is their track record. Ten years and no Auditor General report and two years without any budget, their spending spree must come to light. The PPP/C success over the first year in office is commendable. The Health Ministry approach to the coronavirus pandemic has been most comprehensive.

The Infectious Diseases Hospital is now fully operational while the regional hospitals and the health centres are offering quality services to our people. The caring PPP/C Government is in the process to provide the necessary vaccines to all our people. While the government is in the worldwide immunisation process, the Ministry of Health is also planning carefully to provide a better health care for our people.

The PPP/C ability to put out two budgets within 12 months in government is indeed awesome and most admirable. The Emergency Budget in 2020 and the carefully planned budget for 2021 is a revelation. The removal of all those taxes that were imposed

by the APNU/AFC on basic items brought immediate relief to our people. The agricultural sector saw immediate improvement as rice production is on the rise. The removal of VAT on fertilisers, agro-chemicals and pesticides, along with the removal of the 14 per cent on agricultural machinery quickly stimulated tremendous interest among the farmers. The poultry sector, mining, forestry, fishing and other non-traditional sectors are all now productive. The economic sector is now attractive and more competitive as we are seeing more employment for our people.

Guyanese are proud to know that the PPP/C kept its manifesto promise and reopened the sugar estates. Investors’ interest is now more positive. We can see people in the communities at Skeldon, Rose Hall and Wales in high spirit and a bright and prosperous future is a must.

This caring and responsible PPP/C Government put life in the economy when they did not hesitate to put $5 billion COVID -19 relief grant to our people. The government went on to provide G$150M as risk allowances to our frontline health workers.

This caring PPP/C Government also in

recognition of our children as our country’s greatest assets re- introduced the subsistence to our students. The ‘Because We Care’ cash grant which was taken away by the notorious APNU/AFC returned with an increase from ten thousand dollars to fifteen thousand dollars to each student.

This government’s investments in the health and education sectors are a guarantee to our country’s future. The heavy rain and the floods are being carefully taken care of by the government. However, the citizens of Region Four will forever be thankful to Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo for the vision and construction of the New Hope Canal, which is the reason that the flooding in Region Four was very little.

As for the development in the housing industry and the all-round development to improve the life of our people, these are indeed most commendable.

The PPP/C must ensure that we get Local Government Elections this year. We must strengthen local democracy.

Yours sincerely, Neil Kumar

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

The unvaccinated should take warning, learn from the errors of victims who refused vaccines

Dear Editor,

GUYANESE singer, Eddie Hooper, in the 70s sang, “Take warning, you better take warning… you better do good…respect your fellow men as you should.” The Assembly of God preacher said, be like the wise virgin, not the foolish virgin who was not prepared (Matthew 25:1-13).

The Full Gospel Fellowship pastor said, “Too late, too late shall be the cry” (Luke 13:25). I asked my friend Suresh what he would recommend, that somebody said “There must be a better way to assist the hesitant non-vaccinated” and that another person said the vaccine resisters need more education. Suresh said, in his own inimitable village accent, “Tell them rass, you go dead, if you nah get vaccinated.” I said, “Suresh, we have to say the same thing but in a nicer way.

We don’t want any more Guyanese to die, we already have over 550 people dead.”

I noticed there are some political surrogates of the PNC, the GTU and now the GPSU, whose top brass are well vaccinated, using their members as political fodder, telling them “GPSU acknowledges and will fiercely defend the rights of any citizen, particularly its members who refuse treatment and medi-

cal intervention as well as those who wish to keep their medical information confidential.”

If workers’ organisations truly care, would they not be emphasising more on the benefits of vaccination, rather than saying we will back you if you resist the government’s efforts to keep the nation safe? How much does the GPSU have in its medical and funeral support fund for the non-vaxxers? Workers need to be careful that fully-vaccinated union leaders, MPs and politicians are not using them as pawns in their political games. Be wise and take care of yourselves and families! If you or a family member gets infected with the virus, those same agitators will be nowhere around to help you in your trials and tribulations!

I notice the anti-vaccination crowd is using the slogan, “my body, my choice” which is a “pro-abortion” slogan used in the USA. It might be an appropriate slogan to use since the “anti-vax” crowd essentially are saying they have the right to abort their lives. The rest of us are “pro-life” and “pro-country”. In Guyana now, where adopting the self-styled titles of “Apostle” and “Bishop” is a new church gimmick, there is an “Apostle” fellow having a protest using the “pro-abortion” slogan. In the Facebook blogs, “Soph” said, “If you choose not to be vaccinated, as is your

right, we choose not to serve you, or come close to you, as is our right. And if COVID-19 chooses you, you will be comforted to know that we will sympathise.” Someone writing as “Better way to Retire,” said, “Virus doesn't know politics. Those individuals and their families know what a nightmare and hardships that the deadly experiences unleash, including tying up public and private resources.” Al Fernandes said, “Tek de damn vaccine, my fellow Guyanese! It is NOT the 'mark of the beast'. Damn.”

An unvaccinated Virginia man, Travis Campbell, who has a wife and seven children, is in the intensive care unit battling complications from the virus. He said, “I messed up big time, you guys — I didn’t get the vaccine.”

Campbell said, “I’m trying to talk to you so you understand that I don’t want to go to your funeral and I don’t want you to come to mine.

The new Delta strain … will get you down so fast you are not going to get back up.”

Dr. Steven Brown, a physician in Missouri, USA said, “It's inconceivable. They're seeing people taking the last breaths and still denying the existence of the disease itself, still denying that there is a vaccine that can help them.” He said "One-hundred per cent of those who are requiring ventilator support,

who were the sickest of the sick, have not been vaccinated." Theresa Rosenberry said, “If you don’t want to get the vaccine, that is your right. But you’re going to need to get your affairs in order and talk to your significant other where you want to be buried or if you want to be cremated. Because there is a good chance it can happen to you.”

In Saturday’s news, six members of one Florida church died from COVID-19 in 10 days according to its pastor, who is encouraging people to get vaccinated, and the church is holding vaccination drives.

The USA, Canada, UK, European Union, and many countries are moving towards requiring people to be vaccinated. So, those political agitators who think they can claim the government is a dictatorship and suppressing freedoms will not gain attention, support, and traction. We are in an international state of emergency, and there is no court that will say anyone’s rights are being violated.

The government has done a good job getting the vaccines; it’s your turn to take advantage of its availability to you. Please accept this bit of education.

Yours sincerely, Dr. Jerry Jailall

Abandonment of parents is criminal and inhuman Dear Editor, RECENTLY, the Kaieteur News wrote about an elderly man’s abandonment by his relatives. Mr. Ovid, also known as 'Joku,' of Enterprise, East Coast Demerara, was reported to have been abandoned at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) by his children.

The same publication reported in a subsequent report dated August 6th, 2021, that “a total of 33 patients were abandoned at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for the year so far.” The publication asserted that this was according to Clayton Neuman, Head of the Social Work Department at the hospital.

This 'epidemic' is truly horrifying, cruel, and plain wicked in my opinion! I say epidemic because we are seeing an emergence of similar instances, in which children, in particular, abandon their elderly parents later in life. We see this not only in Guyana, but also in India, the United States of America, and other countries where parents are frequently placed in wards or facilities to be cared for while their callous offspring pay little or no attention to their well-being and subsequently abandon them. Regardless of intent, I will never fully fathom what drives such children to perpetrate such atrocities against the parents who gave them birth, supported and nursed them in their infancy -- people who fed them, taught them, and protected them.

As a matter of fact, there is no crueler act than abandonment of another human being, especially when that other human being is your parent. Consider the mother, who bore the

child in her divine womb for nine months in excruciating pain, or the father, who sweated, toiled, and suffered to ensure that the child was clothed and fed.

Unfortunately, like Mr. Ovid, there are hundreds more like him on the roads of Guyana, abandoned and forgotten. While there are shelters for homeless elderly people maintained by charitable organisations and the government across Guyana, namely the Palms Geriatric Institution, The Night Shelter, and even the Venezuelan-funded Hugo Chavez Centre for Rehabilitation and Reintegration, these shelters are generally overcrowded. And, while the Government of Guyana, notably the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, led by Honorable Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud is working excellently to assure the provision of services to our senior population, the question remains: how much can they do?

Unfortunately, if one was to walk along Regent Street, they will come across many people who have mental illnesses caused by a number of factors, one of which is being abandoned by their children. This is exacerbated by the fact that they do not bring in any income since their previous employers would have stolen their NIS contributions. As a result, they have been left to suffer. Others stated that their children were fatigued and annoyed as a result of a lack of finances to support themselves at home and that they were abandoned either in the corner or at an institution to die. To me, this is cruel, genuinely horrifying, and completely unacceptable.

Abandonment has disastrous effects. If

an aged person develops dementia or Alzheimer's disease, they may forget who they are, where they belong, or even what they need to do to receive medical treatment. Even if they do not have a cognitive impairment, abandonment can cause depression, sickness, and even death.

It is unfortunate that some selfish and uncaring children with no conscience and humility may dump their old parents on the side of the road or take them to the hospital and abandon them there, while forgetting that their body, bloodline, and existence all stem from that parent.

This is not only abusive, unprincipled, immoral, and unethical, but it also reflects poorly on who the child that abandoned the parent is, what they value, and the true nature of their character.

Yours truly, Hajji Dr. Roshan Khan, firmly believes that abandonment should never be an option for any child to inflict on his or her parents. As a result, I am convinced that, in the same manner that a parent is charged for neglect and abandonment, the child who neglects and abandons his or her parents should be charged as well.

Being dutiful to one's parents is a religious obligation in Islam. It is essential to treat parents well in all circumstances, all of the time.

As stated in the following Quranic verse, special emphasis is placed on caring for our parents when they reach old age, as this responsibility becomes even more fundamental.

The Holy Quran states: “And to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], "uff," and do not repel them but

speak to them a noble word. And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, "My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small." (Quran 17:23-24) In another verse, Almighty God states, “And We have enjoined upon man, to his parents, good treatment. His mother bore him in weakness and hardship upon weakness and hardship, and his weaning is in two years. So give thanks to Me and to both your parents, unto Me is the final destination.”

(Quran 46:15). Not only in Islam, but all other religions stress on the importance of treating one’s parents with love and compassion. The Holy Bible teaches, “Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee,” Exodus 20:12.

These values are so important in Hinduism as well, so much so that when performing a religious ceremony, the worshipper honours and respects the parents first before the Pandit. According to Hindu texts, parents should be treated as God. The Vedas teaches: “Do not neglect your duties to the gods and the Manes. Treat your mother as God. Treat your father as God.” When parents speak, God listens! And so if the parent can cry out to God for the child's salvation, why can't the child sacrifice and cry to God for the parents' salvation? We should all note that when we fail to address the needs of our elders, we are just writing a terrible prelude to our own eventual fate.

Yours sincerely, Hajji Dr. Roshan Khan Snr.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

Baramita will not be left behind –– Minister Sukhai

AMERINDIAN Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai, has assured residents of Baramita, Region One, that they will not be left behind.

The minister gave the assurance as government rolled out its ‘Because We Care’ cash grant programme in the region on Sunday.

“Baramita, like all the other communities in the hinterland, will receive the same level of attention, the same level of developmental intervention and support, and we will work as a government with the Village Council to ensure that the benefits derived from the Irfaan Ali administration meet the people,” Minister Sukhai said.

Approximately 401 learners will benefit from the programme which sees parents and guardians receiving $19,000 per child in the public school system.

there are many pockets of vulnerable groups still existing, and we understand, as a government, that parents need support to ensure that their children attend school regularly, that they stay in school until they graduate out of the different levels and it has been difficult for parents to always meet

Anthony Simon The investment by government in the community amounts to over $7.6 million.

Minister Sukhai said that the return of the cash grant initiative was government recognising and understanding the needs of Guyanese.

“All across our country,

Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai, interacting with learners of Baramita

Cleveland Wilson

the needs of their children adequately.”

Parents of Baramita disclosed that the monies will go a far way since there was not much economic activity in the village. Cleveland Wilson who benefitted from the programme said “The parents, as a whole, will indeed use that fund to enable the children

them to purchase their school clothes and get them in order to go to school. So, the cash grant is really a beneficial contribution from the PPP/C Government.”

Anthony Simon shared similar sentiments. “I think it is a very good move because 90 per cent of the children going to school

their parents do not have what it takes to really equip them properly to go out to school. So, this is a very good move.”

Government’s ‘Because We Care’ initiative will see approximately 172,000 learners benefitting from the $3.2 billion programme countrywide.

Global food prices declined in July

GLOBAL food commodity prices fell in July for the second consecutive month, according to a recent benchmark United Nations.

The FAO Food Price Index averaged 123.0 points in July 2021, 1.2 per cent lower than the previous month although still 31.0 per cent higher than its level in the same period of 2020. The index tracks changes in the international prices of the most globally traded food commodities.

The July drop reflected declines in the quotations for most cereals and vegetable oils as well as dairy products.

The FAO Cereal Price Index was 3.0 per cent lower in July than in June, pushed down by a 6.0 per cent month-on-month drop in international maize prices associated with better-than-earlier projected yields in Argentina and improved production prospects in the United States of America, even as crop conditions in Brazil remained a concern. Prices of other coarse grains such as barley and sorghum also dropped significantly, reflecting weaker import demand. However, wheat quotations edged 1.8 per cent higher in July - reaching their highest level since mid-2014 - in part due to concerns over dry weather and crop conditions in North America. At the same time, international rice prices hit two-year lows, impacted by currency movements and a slow pace of sales caused by high freight costs and logistical hurdles.

The FAO Dairy Price Index declined

2.8 per cent from June, impacted by slower market activity in the Northern hemisphere due to ongoing summer holidays, with skim milk powder registering the largest drop, followed by butter, whole milk powder and cheese.

The FAO Vegetable Oil Price Index reached a five-month low, declining 1.4 per cent from June, as lower prices for soy, rape and sunflower seed oils more than offset rising palm oil values. A lower biodiesel blending mandate in Argentina pressured soyoil prices lower, while those for rape and sunflower oils were influenced by prospective record supplies for the 2021/22 season.

In contrast, the FAO Sugar Price Index increased by 1.7 per cent in July, its fourth monthly increase. The rise was mostly related to firmer crude oil prices as well as uncertainties over the impact of recent frosts on yields in Brazil, the world’s largest sugar exporter, while good production prospects in India prevented a larger jump.

The FAO Meat Price Index rose marginally from June, with quotations for poultry meat rising the most due to increased imports by East Asia and limited production expansions in some regions. Bovine meat prices also strengthened, buoyed by high imports from China and lower supplies from major producing regions.

Meanwhile, pig meat prices fell, following a decline in imports by China.

(FAO)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

Granger tapped the phones ...

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From page 3

embattled three have been accused of attempting to thwart the outcome of the elections.

Despite being criminally charged on various counts of electoral fraud allegedly committed during the March 2, General and Regional Elections, Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo remain at their post at GECOM. It was in June, more than a year after the elections, that the PPP/C-nominated commissioners tabled the three motions seeking the “immediate dismissal” of Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo.

Initially, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) GECOM Commissioners had filed three separate motions which sought to have the embattled trio dismissed from their respective positions at GECOM. However, as the hearing on these motions continued to face delays, the PPP/C commissioners sought to have them amended to also consider the termination of contracts, which is catered for in the employment agreements of all three employees.

PPP/C Commissioner and Attorney-at-Law, Bibi Shadick, had previously explained that, with the amendments,

Myers and Mingo. “We are not removing the option of dismissal; we are doing this as an alternative to say that if the Commission does not find [grounds] to dismiss [Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo], then there is the possibility of terminating their contracts,” Shadick told the Guyana Chronicle during a previous interview.

She further opined that, based on all the evidence that is currently before it, “The Commission can very well choose to dismiss” the trio.

Reflecting on the motions piloted by herself and PPP/C colleagues, Sase Gunraj and Manoj Narayan, Shadick said that the submissions call for Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo to be summarily dismissed, based on the fact that they are statutory officers who were guilty of breaching the law.

Shadick reminded that should the

Former Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman GECOM has been presented with more options of ridding itself of Lowenfield,

Jennifer Aniston explains cutting off unvaccinated friends JENNIFER Aniston has expanded on why she has cut off some of her friends who have refused to be vaccinated.

Earlier this week, the Friends actress said she had "lost a few people from [her] weekly routine" who had decided against having a COVID jab.

Some of her Instagram followers have since asked why she was so worried, given that she had been vaccinated.

"Because if you have the variant, you are still able to give it to me," she posted on Thursday.

"I may get slightly sick but I will not be admitted to a hospital and or die.

"But I can give it to someone else who does not have the vaccine and whose health is compromised (or has a previous existing condition) - and therefore I would put their lives at risk."

The actress made the comments on her Instagram story, which allows users to post pictures, videos and messages which only stay live for 24 hours.

In her interview with InStyle, published on Tuesday, Aniston said: "There's still a large group of people who are anti-vaxxers or just don't listen to the facts. It's a real shame.

"I've just lost a few people in my weekly routine who have refused or did not disclose [whether or not they had been vaccinated], and it was unfortunate. I feel it's your moral and professional

obligation to inform, since we're not all podded up and being tested every single day."

She added: "It's tricky because everyone is entitled to their own opinion - but a lot of opinions don't feel based in anything except fear or propaganda."

Aniston is one of the most famous actresses in the world, thanks in large part to her portrayal of Rachel on the US sitcom Friends.

Earlier this year, the cast of the show hit the headlines when they reunited on screen for the first time in 17 years.

Aniston broke an Instagram record (which has since been beaten) when she joined the social media platform in 2019, and now has 37 million followers.

Earlier this week, US news network CNN sacked three employees for returning to work unvaccinated. CNN boss Jeff Zucker said the company had "a zero tolerance policy on this".

In the UK on Thursday, the new NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard urged unvaccinated young adults to get jabbed, saying it is "so important".

More than 46 million people in the UK have received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine - part of the biggest inoculation programme the country has ever launched.

These high vaccination levels have created a "protective wall", the government has said, sufficient to end

legal restrictions on social contact.

First vaccines are now being offered to everyone aged 16 and above as well as children over the age of 12 who are at higher risk from Covid.

The NHS website states that vaccines are "the best way to protect yourself and others" against Covid, noting how they reduce the risk of people getting seriously ill or dying from the virus, while also lessening the chances of them catching or spreading it.

However, they also note that vaccinated people can still catch and spread coronavirus.

While mild side effects are common, they say, more serious ones such as allergic reactions or blood clotting are rare.

Aniston may have publicly championed vaccines, but other entertainment stars including Stone Roses singer Ian Brown, Van Morrison and Eric Clapton have expressed concerns.

Clapton described his experience of taking the vaccine as "disastrous", and blamed "propaganda" for overstating its safety.

He, Brown and Richard Ashcroft have all pulled out of a festival appearances over their refusal to play events that require vaccination proof as a condition of entry.

From the end of September, the government hopes to introduce a law requiring two jabs to go to nightclubs and some other venues in England. (BBC)

Former Public Health Minister and PNCR Chairperson, Volda Lawrence

officers be dismissed, they would still be afforded the opportunity of seeking legal recourse, “because there are legal remedies available to them”.

Nonetheless, should GECOM pursue the termination of their contacts instead of having them dismissed, the three officers could still stand to benefit, or, as Shadick termed it, “be rewarded for bad behaviour,” since they could have their contracts terminated, and still be able to capitalise on the payments offered in lieu of notice.

The attorney-at-law noted, however, that once one’s contract is terminated, one’s legal options would be significantly limited, since the option is clearly outlined in the contract, and “an employer cannot be forced into hiring an employee” it does not want to hire. “At the end of the day, though, our goal is that they [Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo] must not work in the secretariat of GECOM anymore. Either option will achieve that result,” Shadick said. She reminded also, that following the filing of the dismissal motions, Lowenfield had moved to the courts to prevent her and her colleague Sase Gunraj from debating and voting on the issue, since it was the latter who had brought the motion, and she who had seconded it.

During GECOM’s previous meeting, the opposition-nominated commissioners had walked out of the engagement in support of Lowenfield’s arguments.

On the other hand, Shadick, a former PPP/C government minister rubbished Lowenfield’s arguments, referencing the fact that the National Assembly allowed a member to move, debate and vote on motions.

“That is how it is,” Shadick insisted.

It must be noted, however, that due to the construct of GECOM, which has three nominated commissioners representing each of the two major political parties, the ultimate success of the motions rests on the vote of GECOM’s Chairperson, who, in this case, is Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

Co-parenting can be challenging

IT may be more than one year later, but Worldwide, people still feel the effects of the pandemic, and children especially are suffering.

Some are suffering due to lack of access to personal classroom teaching. They are suffering because their parents do not have enough money to pay bills and provide food.

They suffer because they are uncertain about their tomorrow and because parents continue to fight over access and custody issues.

Why can’t parents set aside their differences and put children first? Why can’t they understand that parents have equal rights over a child? Why do they continue to use children as pawns to hurt or annoy their ex-partner?

And why can’t they see how their thoughtless actions, bad attitude and spiteful words to each other, can have a negative long-term effect on their children?

Parents sharing access to a child should be a smooth and undramatic process. Children should feel peace of mind before they leave: while the transition takes place from one parent to the next; and when they return. Parents can achieve this if they are child-focussed and do not harbour afflictions, such as remnants of emotional pain or continually have an ‘axe to grind’.

Co-parenting can be challenging, but it does not have to be unpleasant. Because it plays a significant part in children’s overall growth and well-being, it should be a positive experience. In the beginning, it will take

time for parents and children to adapt to the situation. There may be problems to iron out and emotions to fine-tune, but with patience and perseverance adults can find resolutions.

Why is this truce necessary? It is necessary because the welfare and safety of children must come first. To co-parent successfully parents must first understand why their children need input from both parents.

The involvement of both parents in a child’s life gives stability and significant emotional, psychological and health benefits to child development. Having a good relationship with both parents builds a child’s confidence and enhances the opportunity for a more successful outcome in life.

Everyone has their preferred way of living and some parents believe their child is better-off not knowing or spending time with the other parent. This may be due to alcohol or drug misuse or immature parenting skills displayed by the estranged parent.

Lifestyle choices, such as excessive gambling, partying, or criminal activities in the home, do not provide the best environment for children to spend time. And some parents worry about persons to whom children may be exposed when not in their care.

No one can ‘police’ what goes on in people’s homes when children visit, but if a genuine concern is evidence-based, alternative arrangements can be made, rather than completely severing the bond between child and parent.

If parents can formulate this agreement amicably, all the better. If not, then the Childcare and Protection Agency or Court proceedings may be necessary. Decisions are determined in the child’s best interest.

Parents have the option of working out and agreeing on a compromise such as visitation taking place in a neutral home for the day, at an uncle’s, aunt’s or grandparent’s residence. Children can spend time with their parent on picnics in the park or on family outings. Having some contact with a ‘wayward’ parent is better for a child than no contact at all.

Children will always want to know and spend time with their parent regardless of the parent’s lifestyle. They need to feel genuine care, affection and protection from the people who bore them. When both parents want the best for a child despite their differences, it is a selfless agreement with primary focus on the child. They realise the child loves and needs them both.

Can you imagine what it is like for children to see adults, squabbling over them or calling each other offensive names? Sometimes parents say hateful things about each other in the earshot of children. How can children make sense of parents hating each other when once there was (and there is meant to be) love? Parents create an emotional turmoil of which children bear the brunt.

It is said that one good parent is better than a good-for-nothing pair. In some cases,

single parenting seems best and single parents who juggle their employment and hard-earned dollars with caring for their families must be commended. But they should not paint a negative picture to the child about the absent parent.

Children come from TWO parents, so bad-talking the absent parent is tantamount to bad-talking your child. DNA from both parents make up the child, it does not come from one parent alone. So If a mother feels the absent father is a dog and an underground snake who betrayed her, or the father feels the absent mother is a worthless lying tramp, whom he will never forgive, they should not visit their adult emotions and definitions upon their children. Parents can discuss the facts and circumstances surrounding the estranged parent when children are older (adolescents) and have better understanding.

The future may be unsure but while we have today let us use our positive energy to defuse toxic, unpleasant situations and work towards compromise, understanding and love for our children and our fellowman.

If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY,MINISTRY OF HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY

Five to compete in virtual Miss Emancipation pageant

AFTER being postponed last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Miss Emancipation pageant is returning to the big stage virtually.

Five stunning and effervescent women are vying for this year’s crown. The pageant, which is set to run throughout the month of August, will feature a series of invigorating and humanitarian projects to determine who will be the winner.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday, Gabrielle Cummings, pageant director and the 2018 Miss Emancipation Queen, said this year’s pageant will not miss a beat despite the virtual feature.

Cummings added that the pageant kick starts today with a formal introduction of the contestants to the general public. The event will be live-streamed on the Miss Emancipation Pageant’s Facebook page.

She stated that although the pageant is being held virtually to prevent the spread of the virus, the activities remain the same.

The contestants, as is the norm in this particular pageant, are tasked with creating their own spoken word renditions to introduce themselves.

The other categories are Business Attire, Evening Gown and Final Question.

Outside of the colourful display of talent, charisma and charm, the participants will also partake in a series of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) projects within their respective communities.

Cummings explained that the women will be tasked with identifying and assisting a child within their respective communities to adapt to online schooling using STEM. On the last Saturday of the month, the finalists will showcase their community projects.

Expected to be dressed in their finest, the women will display their evening gowns and thereafter a queen will be crowned.

The contestants strike a pose during their introductory photo shoot

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

‘25 Influential Women Leaders Awards’ returns

THE much-anticipated 25 Influential Women Leaders Awards (25IWLA) will return this year after a hiatus occasioned by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to a release, the awards celebration will be held at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre as a vaccinated-only event on Saturday, October 23, 2021 These prestigious awards were inaugurated in 2019 by the dynamic team of female leaders and entrepreneurs in their own right, Michelle A. Nicholas of The NICO Consulting, Inc. and Lyndell Danzie-Black of Cerulean

ganisation.

The nomination period will extend for one month from August 9 to September 10, after which an imminent panel of judges will have the arduous task of identifying the 25 women who will receive these awards in 2021.

ONLY AWARD OF ITS KIND “As the only forum for showcasing the immense contributions of women to our society, 25IWLA aims to recognise women leaders who have achieved successes in a wide range of fields, redress the under-represen-

Lyndell Danzie-Black

Michelle A. Nicholas

form to celebrate women.

We see this as a great opportunity for corporate Guyana to celebrate and highlight the achievements of their women through this award.”

The release also pointed out that Symmetry Brokerage and Logistics is pleased to be partnering with 25IWLA to recognise and celebrate, a formidable group of women leaders, who are committed to the advancement of women’s rights to business and equity.

“They have demonstrated, through their life and work, and their leadership in governance, diplomacy,

event have extended thanks to the sponsors of the 2019 activity and hope to encourage a continuation of support from those organisations and individuals, including lead sponsor, Strategic Recruitment Solutions Inc., as well as the Small Business Bureau, Camex Restaurants Inc. and Candela Systems Corporation USA. “We also look forward to adding many new partners as together we honour not only these 25 women, but all women across Guyana. Corporate Guyana is encouraged to participate through the nominations of outstanding female em-

social norm changes and political game changing for the gender equity and women's empowerment cause, that women make a difference— not just a small difference but a big and critical one.

Inclusivity is key for future development and we are proud to be involved in the process,” said Lloyd Bart, CEO, Symmetry Brokerage & Logistics.

While more than 350 people attended the inaugural gala in 2019, this year’s event will encompass a duality of form and function, with a smaller, vaccinated only in-person gala, but with an expansive presentation on live television and on social media platforms. The organisers of this distinguished

ployees or associates within their companies, or even by purchasing sponsorship packages which will allow them to showcase the exemplary work women on their team, during the live television and Facebook broadcast. Coming together, cheering each other on, is a true teambuilding opportunity,” said the release from 25IWLA, Cerulean Inc and NICO Consulting Inc. (For more information about nomination eligibility and event sponsorship, visit the 25 Influential Women Leaders Award Facebook page @25Influentialwomenleadersaward, call 592.6 61.4838/592.674.0469/592.

647.8100, or email 25influentialwomen@gmail.com.)

25 Influential Women Leaders Awardees for 2019 Incorporated. The unique award turns the spotlight on women – with 25 awardees being honoured for their passion and commitment to uplifting the business sector, their communities and society.

Nomination forms for women who fit the criteria for recognition at this event are available on the 25 Influential Women Leaders Awards Facebook page, and will be distributed widely through several organisations, the media and members of the public.

The release noted that every Guyanese is encouraged to nominate those women leaders who have left such an indelible mark on their community, business, or or-

tation of women and transform how women leaders are viewed in Guyana by highlighting their value, achievements and contributions.

25 Influential Women Leaders is the only award of its kind in Guyana to focus on women from a variety of sectors, rather than in a single industry, making the award a unique and important milestone in the recognition of women as leaders. Symmetry Brokerage and Logistics will serve as the 2021 Presenting Sponsor of this year’s award celebrations,” the release said.

Nicholas, Co-Creator of the Award and Founder/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The NICO Consulting Inc,

related her pleasure at the return of this landmark event, stating that "Though this past year presented unprecedented challenges, we remain committed to recognising and celebrating inspiring female leaders across Guyana. These women contribute to their organisations and communities, and really bring a sense of hope and excitement for the years to come.”

Speaking to the resilience on display by women in Guyana, she continued: “There is undoubtedly a need for equity and greater inclusion for women, as we continue to emerge as important leaders more broadly, considering the challenges we have faced in social justice, the environment, and healthcare.

I am proud of the di-

verse set of voices represented in our 2019 nominees and honourees, and I’m truly looking forward to celebrating the 2021 change makers.”

HIGHLIGHT ACHIEVEMENTS Danzie-Black, Co-Creator of the Award and Managing Director of Cerulean Inc, also spoke to the importance of celebrating the resilience and achievements of women with recognition as bestowed by the 25IWLA, relating that “The resilience of women during this pandemic was particularly tested as more women continue to work on the frontline and so I am elated to host this award at this time to create a plat-

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

Enmore, Paradise parents laud cash grant

THE government’s ‘Because We Care’ cash grant initiative has been widely welcomed by parents in Region Four, especially those in Enmore and Paradise, East Coast Demerara.

Speaking to the Department of Public Information, many parents were excited about the programme. Several of them remarked that it was timely due to the imminent reopening of schools and the ongoing pandemic.

Avinash Rambaran told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that, while he is not a parent, the grant would greatly assist with purchasing school supplies for his nephew. He commended the Government for delivering on its promise to invest in the education sector at all levels.

“In comparing what transpired within the tenure of this one year of the government, I think it’s fantastic.

It was sad that the previous administration had to take away and remove the cash grant, but it’s fantastic it has now been reintroduced into the system.”

fore the end of four years, this will be $50,000 per child.”

Minister Manickchand said the grant was distributed in cash because the government believes that parents know what is best for their child’s educational development. She urged them not to listen to the critics of the programme, but to invest in their children’s futures.

“One of the big criticisms of the programme is that we’re wasting money; it’s money that we’re spending

foolishly.

“My position on that is any money invested in children and in families could never be wastefully spent, could never be foolishly spent. The criticism is coming from people who don’t understand the parents of this country.”

The reintroduction of the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant to public school learners is another manifesto promise fulfilled by the PPP/C Government.

The grant was first introduced in 2014 valued at

$10,000. However, it was discontinued by the APNU+ AFC administration.

Since the PPP/C Government returned to office in August 2020, it has increased the school uniform and supplies voucher from $2,000 to $4,000 per child, which is being distributed in cash this year. Each child registered in the public school system will receive a total of $19,000.

Approximately 172,000 learners will benefit from the $3.2 billion programme countrywide. (DPI)

Education Minister, Priya Manickchand Eudaicia Coulder, a single mother of three said the grant is a “great offer” and means very much to her. The woman said while she tries her best to provide for her children, it sometimes gets hard.

“This is a great help for me with this grant because starting back to school it won’t be on me, so I am very appreciative.”

Meanwhile, during her visit on Saturday to Enmore

and Paradise primary schools to commence the distribution, Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, said the reintroduction of the grant is a promise delivered.

“This programme started in 2014, and when it started, we had given $10,000. And, when we started, as we said, it would go on until it reaches $50,000 per child, and that is still what we intend to do.

“We start with $15,000.

We commit to you that be-

Some of the parents at the Enmore Primary School (DPI photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

$18M from Gordon Street heist found buried at suspect’s residence POLICE investigations have led to the unearthing and recovery of $18 million in cash of the $47 million in gold and cash that were taken from Wallison Enterprise located at Gordon Street, Kitty, Georgetown, during a robbery under arms on Thursday last.

According to Police Headquarters, the money was found buried at the

under investigation for the alleged involvement in the robbery and its Military Police Department is fully cooperating and assisting the police as necessary.

“We wish to assure the public that the vast majority of our ranks are honest, hardworking Guyanese, who are committed to providing professional service to the people and State of Guyana, and who

gold.

According to police, a 45-year-old goldsmith and a 20-year-old female cashier were on duty at the establishment at the time of the robbery.

It is alleged that the bandits came with a white car, which they parked north of the building, and entered the compound through the main gate.

They were reportedly

The recovered millions residence of one of the suspects. According to reliable sources, the suspect is a Sergeant of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

The suspect, along with others, is in police custody as investigations intensify into the robbery.

The GDF, in a release on Sunday, acknowledged that two of its ranks are

adhere and uphold the values and standards of the Guyana Defence Force,” the release said Last Thursday at approximately 10:05 hrs., in broad daylight, three armed men, posing as customers, robbed Wallison Enterprise over $38 million in local currency, and $20 million worth of raw

granted access into the building by a security guard, by pretending they were there to sell gold.

Once in the establishment’s waiting area, they impressed upon the cashier that the small package they were carrying contained gold they came to sell.

After they gained the cashier’s confidence, they

whipped out their firearms from their pants waist, and, at gunpoint, ushered her into an inner office where the goldsmith and another man were conducting some business.

Holding the two men at gunpoint, too, the bandits reportedly ordered the goldsmith to open the two metal safes in the office, before handcuffing

them, and confiscating their cell-phones, valued some $360,000 and making good their escape with the $38 million in cash and 60 ounces of raw gold valued $20 million they managed to lay their hands on.

By the time the cashier raised an alarm, and the security guard on duty realised what had trans-

pired, the bandits were long gone, and all that was left for them to do was summon the police.

The entire incident was caught on CCTV cameras located inside the business premises and the security guard attached to the establishment and one other person were taken into custody for questioning.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

$209M education grant distributed at St. Mary’s, Soesdyke schools SOME $209 million of the government’s ‘Because We Care’ cash grant was distributed to parents and guardians of children enrolled in the Soesdyke Secondary and St. Mary’s Primary schools, East Bank Demerara.

Public Service Minister, Sonia Parag, on Saturday, said the cash grant is not the end of the PPP/C government’s commitment to the education sector, as investments are important to foster Guyana’s development.

“This is not something that is going to be one-off.

Every year, your child, once in the public school system, will benefit from this cash grant… increasing it as the years go by so that each child will be able to benefit from $50,000, which will be within the cost of living.”

Minister Parag said the government recognises the struggles that parents go through each year with getting the necessary materials for their children to attend school.

“Why this cash grant is so important, why an investment in our children’s educational future is so important?

Desiree Lyte, who takes care of her grandchildren, is very pleased and thankful for the cash grant (DPI photo) Because of the fact that they have a bright future ahead of them and we must be able to foster that for them.”

The minister also urged parents and teachers to take a COVID-19 vaccine to protect themselves and their children from the disease, especially as the new school term begins in September.

Meanwhile, parents thanked the government for the cash grant, noting that it would help them to budget better for school supplies.

Desiree Lyte, who is the guardian of her two grandchildren, said she would use the money wisely. “I know that this money will be a good benefit for them… and I gon to give God praise and thanks, and I want thank the minister, thank everyone… it mean a lot,” she said.

Joan Da Silva expressed similar sentiments.

“This cash grant comes in timely. I wanna say I feel great about it… I look forward for school to be reopened in September… I want to say thank you to this government,” she said.

Sharmine Bovell, a mother of two, said she believes the cash would be especially helpful to families in need.

“I’m thankful and I thank the government for its good work and to continue because, so far, this government that runs this country right now is doing very good… and I happy with [the President].”

Head Master of the Soesdyke Secondary School, Samuel Razack and Education Officer, LoriAnn Jacobs accompanied Minister Parag during the distribution exercise. (DPI)

Public Service Minister, Sonia Parag hands over the cash grant to a parent (DPI photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

International Day of Indigenous Peoples …

Listening to the voices of indigenous peoples is the only way to protect people and planet EACH year, on August 9, the United Nations (UN) celebrates the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples.

The date marks the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations. Recognising the multiple and intersecting challenges faced by indigenous peoples across the world, this year’s theme “Leaving no one behind: Indigenous peoples and the call for a new social contract” encourages us to include, involve and integrate indigenous people at all levels, to protect their rights, and to obtain free, prior, and informed consent.

The history of most indigenous peoples around the world is marked by colonisation, which led to the loss of their autonomy over their territories and natural resources. Indigenous peoples have often been marginalised, excluded from participation in society, cast as poor and uneducated, and forced to accept fate as voiceless observers of the destruction of their sacred lands and waters.

Indigenous societies have preserved, for generations, highly sophisticated knowledge of the natural world and have reconciled this with their culture, spirituality, and cosmovision of their place in the ecosystem of life.

Their culture is often characterised by a harmonious, symbiotic relationship between humans and nature, making life meaningful and pleasurable. Such indigenous ability to share and transfer unique local knowledge from the older to the younger generations, to sustainably use and manage natural resources for the common good of the community is now being called for and recognised by researchers, climate scientists, and relevant international bodies

Use of participatory video in the North Rupununi region in Guyana to document indigenous local knowledge of biodiversity and the environment (Photo credit: Claudia Nuzzo) as one of the best solutions to combat climate change, while restoring and protecting biodiversity.

“Today, the global human population faces the consequences of centuries of over-exploitation of natural resources, species extinction, and fossil fuel pollution that have plunged us into a crisis for both nature and humans, increasing their vulnerability and interdependence. In seeking solutions to such crisis, we need to recognise that indigenous values, as well as their traditional knowledge and governance arrangements, beliefs and practices are paramount to achieving sustainable development and climate resilience,” highlights Nigel Crawhall, Chief of Section from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)’s programme on Local and Indigenous Knowledge Systems (LINKS).

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exposed and exacerbated many existing inequalities, disproportionately affecting indigenous populations which were already at a higher risk of poverty, illness, discrimination,

and difficulties in securing livelihoods.

Many UN agencies and inter-governmental bodies, in cooperation with local, national, regional, and international stakeholders, are increasingly creating opportunities to engage indigenous peoples in problem-solving, decision-making, and knowledge-sharing to address global challenges such as biodiversity conservation and climate change. Such efforts are producing impactful actions and results within several international initiatives, such as the Inter-governmental Science Policy Platform for Biodiversity and Ecosystems Services (IPBES),

the Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples’ Platform (LCIPP), the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD) and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).

Since 1992, UNESCO's LINKS programme has promoted the importance of indigenous knowledge in the UN system, among policymakers, governments, academia, and in research, and creates opportunities for exchange with indigenous peoples.

As such, Caribbean indigenous peoples and See page 16

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

Listening to the voices of indigenous peoples ...

From page 15

local communities, as well as experts from meteorological and hydrological services, and institutions dealing with climate change from 16 countries, came together for the first Caribbean workshop on indigenous and local knowledge (ILK) in Georgetown, Guyana for three days in September 2019 to share their experiences of an-

ticipating and responding to different environmental challenges, including natural disasters and climate change impacts.

This enabled the elaboration of a Caribbean-wide overview of how indigenous and local knowledge (ILK) are being used to predict, prepare for and tackle the impacts of climate change, and to con-

sider ways in which ILK, science, and policy-making can better collaborate.

In Guyana, indigenous people are one of the ethnic groups that make up the country’s diverse population and rich culture.

There are nine indigenous groups settled across Guyana, and they have detailed knowledge of biodiversity and ecosystems on the coast, in tropical forests,

savannahs, and wetlands.

Over the years, the government of Guyana has taken several initiatives to support indigenous people, promote development of their communities, preserve their languages and culture, formalise their land titles, improve access to health, education and other services, and support the National Toshaos Council.

Through a partnership with the UK-based social enterprise cobracollective, indigenous communities in the North Rupununi region in Guyana have been examining, documenting, and explaining their knowledge of biodiversity and the environment through the use of participatory videos.

The focus has been on the relationship between indigenous peoples and the national network of protected areas.

The National Toshaos Council, which represents the different indigenous leaders and peoples of Guyana, together with the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, has recently advanced a draft plan of action for the protection and promotion of traditional indigenous knowledge in Guyana. Once adopted, Guyana would join the new cutting edge of countries that effectively recognise the importance of indigenous knowledge for the development and implementation of public policies. Toshao Nicholas Fredericks, the Chairperson of the National Toshaos Council, commented on the draft traditional knowledge action plan, “Life for an Indigenous person is dependent on the land.

So that is why this Traditional Knowledge National Action Plan needs to recognise, revitalise our traditional institutions, our traditional knowledge….

The knowledge of Indigenous people is very important for all countries because it assists governments to implement policies and programmes that are in line with living in harmony with nature.”

The Amerindian Land Titling Project has been

ongoing for several years now. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been supporting the government through the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission and other key stakeholders to investigate, demarcate, resolve, and manage land issues.

UNDP, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and with funding from the Government of Japan, provided training in the Participatory Integrated Climate Services for Agriculture (PICSA) tool to farmers in Indigenous communities in Regions Seven, Eight and Nine through the project “Strengthening Disaster Management Capacity of Women in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Commonwealth of Dominica.”

This tool allows farmers to use weather information to make more informed decisions towards climate resilient farming practices to enhance their food security. Building on the foundation provided by this training, with a strong emphasis on linking women farmers to finance, a micro-grant initiative was launched with six communities from Region Nine to date receiving funding to enhance their livelihood options.

UNDP, the World Food Programme (WFP), and UN Women have also joined forces with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) on the ‘Enabling Gender-Responsive Disaster Recovery, Climate and Environmental Resilience’ (EnGenDER) Project.

UNDP, in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, through this project, provided food and personal care items to groups, including women and children, particularly in situations of gender-based violence, and indigenous communities affected by the economic consequences of COVID-19. Additionally,

as part of the COVID-19 response, communications equipment was provided to the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, and Personal Protective Equipment was provided to the Guyana Police Force to enhance its service provision with respect to gender-based violence. Similarly, family violence is the focus of the Spotlight Initiative that is being implemented by the UN in partnership with the European Union and Ministry of Human Services and Social Security to eliminate violence against women and girls in indigenous and coastal communities.

The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has been supporting the Environmental Protection Agency to develop policies and citizens’ sensitisation of the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing. It facilitated the drafting and revision of the ABS Regulation, which will enhance the negotiating capacity of the Amerindian communities.

UNDP continues to collaborate with the Office of the Prime Minister to deliver Information and Communications Technology (ICT) services to 200 hinterland, poor and remote communities.

To this end, US$3.2 million worth of ICT equipment and solar solutions have been procured and preparations are ongoing to retrofit buildings for installation and commissioning of these services.

The project will also support the utilisation of ICTs for the preservation and diffusion of local culture and traditions of indigenous communities.

By recognising the depth, complexity, and vitality of indigenous knowledge systems, Member States of the United Nations can develop a new social contract, advancing on sustainable paradigms that will truly leave no one behind. (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

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Five psychiatric patients who escaped fire yet to be found FIVE persons who are patients at the National Psychiatric Hospital, Fort Canje, New Amsterdam, Berbice, were yet to be found up to press time on Sunday, following a fire of unknown origin at the institution on Saturday, at approximately 21:15 hrs.

According to police, enquiries disclosed that the nurse supervisor on duty at the time, Waveney Felix, was in her office when she observed smoke emanating from Chalet Four and shortly after observed patients escaping from Chalet Four.

She, reportedly, immediately informed the New

Amsterdam Fire Service and shortly after the Fire Service extinguished the fire. Police reported that several persons comprising the total patient population were questioned.

Initially, out of the 19 patients of the institution, only five could have been accounted for.

However, due to quick response from the Joint Services and other law enforcement agencies, seven patients were found on Saturday. Two were located and returned to the facility at 10:00hrs on Sunday, leaving five at large.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing.

Body of pensioner found at Rising Sun, Berbice THE motionless body of 64-year-old Clive Skeete, called “Bungo”, of Lot 17 Seafield, West Coast Berbice, was discovered at the Rising Sun Backdam, West Coast Berbice on Friday at 11:30 hrs, following a telephone report to police by an unknown person.

The report caused a party of police to visit the scene, where, on arrival, they observed what appeared to be blood around the area of the mouth and nose of the pensioner. A bag of unpeeled coconuts was discovered about 30 feet north of the body.

The body of Skeete was identified by his son, Leon Skeete, who informed the authorities that he last saw his father alive at his home about two weeks ago. The body was removed and taken to the Fort Wellington Public Hospital, West Coast Berbice, where it was declared dead by a doctor on duty.

The body was then taken to the Bailey’s Funeral Home, West Coast Berbice, where it is awaiting a Post Mortem Examination (PME).

Police are investing the cause of death.

The section of the Guyana Psychiatric Hospital, Fort Canje, New Amsterdam, Berbice that was destroyed by fire on Saturday

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

Rain washes out India England first test (ESPNCRICINFO) - India were looking forward to having a good crack at the remaining 157 runs needed to cross the line to win the first Test, Virat Kohli said at the end of the Trent bridge stalemate.

He also said that he felt India had batted with intent on the fourth evening, attacked with the ball all along, and set markers for the rest of the five-match series. And, that the XI picked for the first Test could well “be a template going ahead in the series”, though calls would be taken based on conditions.

Chasing 209, India started solidly courtesy of KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma.

This seemed to rub off on Cheteshwar Pujara, who signed off the penultimate day with a square-driven boundary off Stuart Broad.

It wasn’t just Pujara showing intent, it was also a mark of confidence from the Indian top order, which had shown courage, good technique, and solid mindset to tackle the most difficult batting conditions - the final hour (as it turned out) of this rain-affected, but absorbing Test, where nearly two days were lost to rain.

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“We were expecting rain on day three and four, but it chooses to arrive on day five,” Kohli told the broadcasters after the final day’s play was called off late afternoon on Sunday. “We thought we were in a good position to have a crack at the target. This is exactly what we wanted to do: we wanted to start strong.

“Heading to day five, we had our chances right in front of us. One good partnership and then you know what happens when there’s only 150 on the board to defend. We certainly felt like we are on top of the game. We bowled well enough and batted well enough to stay in the contest and then getting that lead was crucial which kept us on top throughout the game.”

India had been dealt a blow two days before the Test after Mayank Agarwal the preferred opener in Shubman Gill’s absence - was ruled out because of concussion. Rahul, who stepped in as replacement, did not show at any stage that he had not been considered Test-cricket material since August 2019.

Rahul, in the company of Sharma, who was opening for the first time in England, was

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India’s strength and conditioning coach, Soham Desai, and Jasprit Bumrah walk in the drizzle( England vs India, 1st Test, Nottingham, 5th day, August 8, 2021 © Associated Press) impressive as he kept India in the game on the second day with his innings of 84.

Not just the runs, but Rahul kept the Indian dressing room calm despite failures of Pujara, Kohli and Ajinkya

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Rahane.

India needed that assured start again on an overcast Saturday evening when James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Ollie Robinson steamed in under lights. India still ended

the day at 52 for 1; Rahul, the only batter to fall. Kohli agreed that it was a vital phase of play that India had won.

“And to get to 50 overnight is a big positive for us.

It wasn’t about survival; it was about getting the boundaries where the opportunity presented itself,” he said.

“Our intent is what kept us ahead in the game. Even today, the start would have been the same.”

But the fact that India took a 95-run first-innings lead was not all Rahul’s doing. The credit for that belonged to Ravindra Jadeja, who scored 56, and then Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj added 46 more after he was dismissed.

“It’s a hard work of threeodd weeks now,” Kohli said of the last three. “They have been in the nets regularly, wanting to contribute regularly, wanting to contribute to the team. Getting 50-plus runs from those three bowlers was like gold dust for us - we would have been talking about a lead of 40odd and then we got to a lead of 95 purely because of their efforts.

“Just the grit and determination… you know, as opposition, when the bowlers get runs it can be annoying.”

The lack of runs from the bottom order has been an issue for India, and a prime reason for India to tinker with the team combination.

In the World Test Championship final, in June against New Zealand, India had fielded two spinners in R Ashwin and Jadeja to have more batting depth. For this Test, they dropped Ashwin, and brought in Shardul Thakur, who had played a winning hand with both ball and bat during the triumph in Brisbane against Australia in January.

While he didn’t contribute with the bat, Thakur grabbed four wickets in the Test, key ones at that.

Asked whether India would persist with a similar template of five bowlers including one spinner for the remainder of the series, Kohli said it was a possibility. “Most likely it will be a template going ahead in the series, but again, adaptability has been a strength of ours as well,” he said.

“This looks like the right template for us moving forward.”

Rajkumar claims victory in latest round of U12 Open at Youth Online Rapid World Cup –– Alphonso and Couchman draw in Girls’ U16s GUYANA’S National Junior chess team continued their fine showing at the FIDE Cadet and Youth Online Rapid World Cup with a victory and two draws on Sunday in the latest rounds of the championships.

After a solid performance by the National U10 side, the older age group are now battling.

Mahir Rajkumar was able to replicate the victory that he achieved in Round One, against a highly ranked opponent when he battled against a 1264 rated player, Zangrilli Leonardo, from Malta in Round Six. In Round One, the 10-year-old had defeated Mittal Ashvath from India with a ranking of 1419.

With the win, the youngster is now the top Guyanese in the U12 division

with two points.

HEART-BREAKING LOSS Alexander Zhang, who won in the third round, never had the chance to move the first pawn given that he was forced to forfeit his Round Five clash against Guatemalan Jose Hector Linares due to a power failure yesterday morning.

Omar Shariff, who won in Round Four, is also on one point.

In the Girls’ U16s battle, Adia Alphonso was able to gain a draw against Bolivian player, Rebecca Barnor, while Aniyah Couchman drew against Elsie Muturi (1086 ratings) from Kenya in Round Six. The online championships agegroup battle is scheduled to continue today.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

CWI streaming Rising Stars U19 trial match WEST Indies fans across the Caribbean and around the world will be able to follow the next generation of exciting young West Indies cricketers pushing for selection for the ICC U19 World Cup. Cricket West Indies (CWI) announced that it will be streaming LIVE ball-by-ball coverage of four of the forthcoming West Indies Rising Stars U19s trial series from the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) in Antigua.

The Series of eight (8) 50-over Rising Stars U19s trial matches start on Sunday at the Coolidge Cricket Ground and the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium (SVRS). A total of fifty-six (56) players have been divided into four squads of fourteen (14).

The first match starts today (Sunday) when the “Red Dragons” and the “Green Pitons” will be in action at CCG while the “Yellow Flamingos” face the Blue Dolphins at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium (SVRS). First ball is 9:30-am (8:30am Jamaica Time). The Rising Stars U19 trials will continue on Tuesday and Thursday with the top two teams facing each other on Saturday

at CCG with the third and fourth placed teams playing at SVRS. All four of the trial matches to be played at CCG will be available on www.windiescricket.com and the “Windies Cricket” YouTube channel https://bit.ly/ WindiesCricketYouTube. There will also be scores, statistical information and photographs provided on CWI’s social media platforms throughout the day.

The trial matches form part of the West Indies Rising Stars U19s High Performance camp, which is a key part of CWI’s investment in development and preparations for the players for the ICC U19 World Cup to be played in the West Indies early next year. Following the Rising Stars U19 camp and the trial matches, a squad of eighteen (18) players will be selected for the West Indies Rising Stars U19 tour of England, which will feature six Youth One-Day Internationals at The County Ground, Beckenham and The Polo Farm, Canterbury from Saturday, September 4 to Friday, September 17.

Rising Stars U19 Trial Match Schedule (All matches 9:30 start local time (8:30 Jamaica time) Matches in bold italics to be live streamed Sunday, August 8: Red Dragons vs Green Pitons (CCG) Yellow Flamingos vs Blue Dolphins (SVRS) Tuesday, August 10: Blue Dolphins vs Green Pitons (CCG) Red Dragons vs Yellow Flamingos (SVRS) Thursday, August 12: Blue Dolphins vs Red Dragons CCG) Green Pitons vs Yellow Flamingos (SVRS) Saturday, August 14: 1st vs 2nd Place match (CCG) 3rd vs 4th Place match (SVRS)

PSG a possibility says departing Messi

(BBC) - An emotional Lionel Messi said joining Paris St-Germain was “a possibility, but nothing is agreed” as he confirmed his exit from Barcelona.

Messi is ending his 21year association with Barca, who cannot afford to honour the new contract they agreed with him because of La Liga’s salary limit.

The record six-time Ballon d’Or winner, 34, is now a free agent.

“My family and I were convinced we were going to stay here, at home,” he said during a news conference on Sunday.

“This is the end with this club and now a new story will begin,” added the Argentina forward. “Yes, it’s one of the most difficult moments for me.

“I don’t want to leave this club - it’s a club I love and this is a moment I didn’t expect.

“Last year, I wanted to leave; this year I wanted to stay. That’s why I’m so sad.

“It was like my blood ran cold. I was really sad.

It was really difficult right up to now. I’m still trying to process it all.

“When I get home I will still feel bad; it will be even worse. I’m not ready for this.”

What else did Messi say?

Lionel Messi won 34 trophies with Barcelona after making his first-team debut aged 17 in October 2004 Messi, Barcelona’s record goalscorer, submitted a transfer request last summer before agreeing to stay for the final year of his contract.

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Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona faces the media during a press conference at Nou Camp on August 08, 2021 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

That expired on 1 July and Messi is now in talks over a move to PSG, where he would play alongside Kylian Mbappe and former Barca team-mate Neymar.

“It is a possibility, but I have not agreed anything with anyone,” he said. “I have got different clubs interested. Nothing is definitive but clearly we are talking to them.”

Messi left Argentina for Spain when he was 13 and made his first-team debut for Barcelona aged 17 in October 2004.

He went on to score 672 goals in 778 games and helped the Spanish giants win 34 trophies, replicas of which were displayed at his news conference at the Nou Camp.

“I’m so grateful for the love that everyone’s shown

me, for all my team-mates, and the club being by my side,” he said. “Today I have to say goodbye to all this.

“I arrived when I was very young, 13 years old, and after 21 years I am leaving with my wife and three Catalan-Argentine children.

“I cannot be more proud of everything I did and lived in this city. I have no doubt that, after a few years away, we will return because it is our home.”

Messi added: “I’m leaving the club without seeing the fans for over a year and a half [due to the pandemic]. If I imagined it, I would imagine the Camp Nou full, and to say goodbye properly. But it has to be this way.”

Why is Messi leaving Barcelona?

Messi looked set to ex-

tend his stay at the Nou Camp having agreed a new fiveyear contract in July, halving the £123m a season he reportedly received in his previous contract.

The agreement was dependent on player departures to get Barca’s wage bill under La Liga’s limit, however, and the club were unable to do so.

“I offered to reduce my salary by 50% and they didn’t ask me for anything else,” Messi said. “It is not true that they asked me for anything more.

“I only know that it was not possible because of La Liga, because the club did not want to go into more debt.”

Barcelona president Joan Laporta said on Friday that trying to keep Messi could have put the club at risk for 50 years.

Once it became clear Barca were unable to honour the contract they had agreed with Messi, his representatives contacted PSG, but wherever Messi goes next, he said he wants to “play my last years competing for titles”.

He also had a warning for his former Barca team-mate Dani Alves after the 38-yearold right-back helped Brazil win Olympic gold to extend his record for career titles to 43.

“I congratulate Dani Alves and warn him that I am going to fight to catch up with him and surpass him,” Messi

added. “It’s my mentality. I have to find my way to keep competing and winning.”

‘Imagining the club without you is difficult’ Hundreds of fans were at the Nou Camp and his family were on the front row at the news conference, with Messi’s wife Antonella handing him a tissue Hundreds of fans gathered outside the Nou Camp and several of Barcelona’s first-team players were also in attendance.

Messi was in tears as he walked on to the stage and he received a round of applause before, during and after his news conference.

Andres Iniesta, who won the Champions League four times with Messi, tweeted: “We shared magical moments and always stayed together.

Imagining the club without you or being able to see you at the Camp Nou with another shirt is difficult.”

Xavi Hernandez, another member of that legendary Barca midfield, added: “I can only thank you for everything you have given us during these years. Whatever you do, I wish you the best.”

Current Barca captain Gerard Pique said: “Nothing will ever be the same again. Not the Camp Nou, not the city of Barcelona, ​​not ourselves.

The reality, sometimes, is very harsh.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, August 9, 2021

Tokyo 2020 Olympics close with upbeat ceremony (BBC) - The Tokyo Olympics, postponed and played out behind closed doors because of the COVID pandemic, concluded with an upbeat ceremony in Japan’s capital.

The Games took place without spectators and athletes were barred from venturing outside the Olympic village.

Their staging had faced local opposition and around 30 protestors jostled with police at the National Stadium before the closing ceremony.

However, other locals have braved heat and warnings to watch events from afar.

Fans took in outdoor events, such as triathlon and BMX, from overpasses and other vantage points despite temperatures that reached 35C, the hottest ever recorded at an Olympics.

The Games’ official sign-off, featuring ska bands, football freestylers, break-dancers and BMX riders, created more made-for-TV memories, culminating in athletes thanking the people of Japan by making a heart gesture with their hands.

A scaled-down parade of flagbearers, missing 62 of the competing nations, started

proceedings in Tokyo before an air display team painted the French tricolore across the sky in Paris, the host city for 2024.

Tokyo 2020 president, Seiko Hashimoto, who appeared at seven Games as a speed skater and then a track cyclist, told the athletes: “There are no words to describe what you have achieved.

“You have accepted what seemed unimaginable, understood what had to be done, and through hard work and perseverance overcome unbelievable challenges.”

She added: “This has made you true Olympians.”

Athletes had daily swabs to test for coronavirus and wore face masks when not eating, training or competing. After they had finished competing, they had 48 hours to leave the athletes’ village.

Games produce stars and the unexpected The Games were postponed a year from their original 2020 date and, as the global pandemic raged, Japanese support wavered, with unfavourable opinion polls in the months before and even the country’s Emperor Naruhito expressing concerns about their staging.

Closing ceremony in the Olympic Stadium. The Olympic flame shortly before it goes out. Photo: Marijan Murat/dpa (Photo by Marijan Murat/ picture alliance via Getty Images) The banning of spectators from most venues denied the Japanese public a chance to watch a summer Games close up for the first time since Tokyo 1964 and the climax of an eight-year wait after winning the hosting rights in Buenos Aires in 2013.

As ever, the Games produced a shower of stars. American swimmer Caeleb Dressel won five golds in the pool. Jamaican Elaine Thompson-Herah won another three on the track. Gymnast Daiki Hashimoto won two for the home nation in gymnastics.

But, equally inevitably, there were moments that no-one could have expected.

Italy’s Gianmarco Tamberi and Qatar’s Mutaz Barshim deciding to share high-jump gold rather than contest the title.

Norwegian Lotte Miller consoling Belgian rival Claire Michel after she came in last in the triathlon.

Simone Biles, predicted to collect a clutch of golds, instead highlighting athletes’ mental health as she protected herself by withdrawing from five of her six events.

The next Olympics begin in just 180 days time with the Winter Games opening in Beijing on 4 February. The next Summer Olympics are just three years away, with Paris hosting in 2024, before Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032.

“This is a very, very young team and a very talented team, and a team I’m absolutely confident that will go to Paris in less than three years and do exceptionally well.”

Cuba tops Caribbean medal-haul list SEVEN Caribbean nations appear on the final medal table from the Tokyo Summer Olympic Games which ended here Sunday, with Cuba topping the list.

The Spanish-speaking Caribbean country won 15 medals as Caribbean nations finished with 15 gold, seven silver and nine bronze.

For the Cubans, their gold came in boxing through Andy Cruz, Julio la Cruz, Arlen Lopez and Roniel Iglesias, along with threegold-medal performances in rowing, allowing them to end in 14th place on the overall medal table.

The other Caribbean nations on the medal table were Jamaica, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Grenada. All but one of the medals won by this group of countries came in athletics.

Gold medal winners, Elaine Thompson-Herah and Hansle Parchment of Jamaica, Shaunae Miller-Uibo and Steven Gardiner of the Bahamas, along with Puerto Rican Jasmin Camacho-Quinn

IOC president Thomas Bach speaks during the closing ceremony on Sunday.

all made history.

Thompson-Herah became the first to complete a 100-200 metres ‘double-double’ and Parchment made Jamaica the first country other than the United States to win the 110 metres hurdles in successive Olympic Games.

That feat was last accomplished by the USA in 1988, when Roger Kingdom retained the title he won in 1984.

Miller-Uibo and Gardiner gave the Bahamas the honour of being the first Caribbean country to win both 400 metres gold medals in the same Games since 1984.

Camacho-Quinn is Puerto Rico’s first Olympic champion in athletics.

Jamaica’s medal haul of four gold, one silver and four bronze earned Thompson-Herah and her compatriots fifth place on the athletics medal table, behind the United States, Italy, Kenya and Poland.

Tokyo 2020 Olympics close with upbeat ceremony

see story on page 23

Closing Ceremony at the Olympic Stadium. Fireworks at the end of the closing ceremony. Photo: Marijan Murat/dpa (Photo by Marijan Murat/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Rajkumar claimssee story victory in latest on page 21 round of U12 Open at Youth Online Rapid World Cup –– Alphonso and Couchman draw in Girls’ U16s

Mahir Rajkumar won in Round Six Adia Alphonso drew her clash Aniyah Couchman drew against against a 1264 rated player from against a Bolivian player in a rated Kenya player in Round Round Five.

Malta.

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