Guyana Chronicle E-paper 1-25-2020

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 25, 2020

SATURDAY

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25th January, 2020

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‘Region 4 holds the key’ No.105890

…President seeks bigger majority for coalition in Demerara

SEE PAGES 02&03

…tells massive crowd at Golden Grove rally to reject PPP lies, corruption

In this composite photo President David Granger addresses endearing supporters at the massive elections campaign rally at Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara Friday evening (Adrian Narine photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 25, 2020

Billions spent to improve healthcare, infrastructure in Region 4 -Lawrence talks up APNU+AFC’s achievements, makes case for second term

By Navendra Seoraj THE economic and infrastructural landscape of Guyana underwent massive transformation over the past four and a half years, with billions of dollars going toward various developmental projects.

This transformation has been widespread, reaching both hinterland and coastal areas, said Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, as she addressed a massive crowd during an A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) rally at Golden Grove, on Friday night. For every major achievement the minister spoke about, there was an equal roar of cheers from the crowd of supporters, who chanted: “forward ever, backward never! Granger for president!”

“Forward ever, backward never indeed...let's get down to business...in 2015, every single vote we cast for the coalition was to achieve a result, long fought for... we achieved those results,” said Lawrence, who is also chairman of the PNCR- the largest party in the six-party coali-

tion, as she made her pitch in front of a sea of green and yellow that seemed to have no end.

The achievements of the coalition government can be seen across the country, particularly in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), where billions of dollars were spent on the construction of roads, bridges and other infrastructure, and on the improvement of the health and education sectors. Minister Lawrence gave the crowd a lot to think about, as she compared the coalition’s achievement in Region Four, to that of the Opposition, People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

“In 2017 alone, $502 million was spent for roads, bridges and water...by 2019, it was $605.5 million...I ask you to compare that to the past administration,” said Minister Lawrence.

PROPER INFRASTRUCTURE In reminding persons about the PPP/C’s “paltry” investment, she said: “You know what the PPP gave you? In 2012 they gave this region (4) a mere $192 million and by 2014, the highest

amount they ever gave was $228 million. “Compare that to what we gave you...they never went over $200milion...the Granger administration invested in this region to ensure you got proper infrastructure...we didn't invest a small change and that just goes to show how important you are to this administration.”

The minister blamed the lack of proper roads, lights and water, in the past, to the poor investment by the PPP/C administration, noting that the only concern of the then administration was to take care of Pradoville One and Two. “They felt we weren’t valuable...if we stop to think about it, the PPP had 23 years in office, the age of an adult…they had all those years to transform a country and all they did was fill their pockets…corruption was rampant and greed was the order of the day,” Lawrence lamented.

DON’T BE FOOLED Compared to the PPP/C, she said: “we (APNU+AFC) only had four and a half years and we have already done so much…well I want you

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, makes her case for the incumbent APNU+AFC coalition to have a second term (Adrian Narine photo)

to imagine if you and I give Granger five more years to build on this progress, imagine what our lives would be... this is a caring government so don’t let nobody fool you with $5,000 and a jersey.”

Minister Lawrence implored persons to trust in the incumbent coalition because she believes that the President David Granger- led administration, will make a wise and ethical decision, especially when it comes to the allocation of the country’s imminent oil wealth.

“Everyone will enjoy the wealth under the David Granger administration…our president promised us a good life but he also knows that good health must be maintained in order to enjoy the good life,” she said, adding that some of the oil wealth will go towards improving the health sector, a sector which “crumbled” under the PPP/C administration.

Speaking specifically about the health sector, Minister Lawrence said, in 2011, the PPP/C invested $251 million into healthcare for Region Four, but, upon being elected to government in 2015, the coalition government invested $554.6 million into healthcare for the region, for that year alone.

“It didn’t stop there, if you know your heart ain’t good you better sit for this one…we, a caring government, which is concerned about the health of the people, invested $1.1 billion for healthcare in Region Four, in 2016,” said Minister Lawrence, as she further cranked up the crowd, by saying that just last year, the government allocated $1.3 billion for healthcare in the region.

She reminded persons that those allocations were just for the East Coast of Demerara and East Bank of Demerara, and did not include Georgetown. As the cheers grew louder, the minister also turned up the tempo on her speech, noting that a lot has been done and a lot more will be done once the APNU+AFC coalition is re-elected at the upcoming General and Region Elections.

In responding to the roaring cheers and chants, Minister Lawrence said: “we spent billions to keep you healthy and because of that, today we are bringing to you, services which you never had before.”

Among the services the coalition government implemented were ultra sound services at not only the hospitals, but at the Buxton and Enterprise Health Centres;

three diabetic foot clinics; a well-equipped maternity ward at the CC Nicholson Hospital; and ECG, X-ray, and basic lab services at various health facilities.

The Minister also teased the crowd and sparked a little excitement by saying that a lot more is in store, noting that very soon, the East Coast of Demerara corridor will have its own ambulatory care service.

“The days of having to spend a lot of money on transportation are over...all you will have to do is pick up the phone and dial 911,” said Minister Lawrence.

All of these projects are being undertaken as part of the coalition government’s effort to create a “world class” health system which will benefit every Guyanese. “Imagine you never even had aspirin under the PPP/C, but we have put Guyana back on the right path, with good, free and accessible health for all… public hospitals now have equipment to treat complex illnesses,” said Lawrence, noting that all the development is possible because of a government that persons voted for in 2015. In that regard, she encouraged persons to come out on March 2 and ensure that they cast their ballots for the APNU+AFC coalition, so that progress could continue.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 25, 2020

‘Region 4 holds the key’ …President seeks bigger majority for coalition in Demerara …tells massive crowd at Golden Grove rally to reject PPP lies, corruption

By Svetlana Marshall TELLING Guyanese to resist crime, corruption, deception and underdevelopment, President David Granger, in an electrifying address to the people of East Coast of Demerara (ECD), urged Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) to ensure that the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition secures a landslide victory come March 2.

“If we win this region convincingly, we win the whole election,” President Granger told thousands of APNU+AFC supporters, who were decked out in the colours of the coalition at a rally held at Golden Grove Community Centre Ground on Friday.

Amid loud chants of ‘Granger! Granger!,’ the President, who is seeking re-election to office, explained that Region Four, though geographically small, has the largest population within the country, with four in every 10 Guyanese living in the region. “This is a battlefield region and we have to win the battle right here on the East Coast, right here in Demerara. This is a battle that we must win!” he declared with residents signalling their

villages; we won the battle against the troubles between 2000 and 2010 but tonight, my comrades, we have to win the battle of numbers,” President Granger told the multitude of supporters.

BIGGER TURN OUT Justifying his call, the President explained that in 2015 only 75 per cent of the voting population in the Demerara-Mahaica Region went to the polls, with the APNU+AFC coalition securing 61 per cent of the votes, and the PPP/C 39 per cent. “The problem I face tonight is that 25 per cent of this region was absent without leave…This time, let us not make a mistake, I don’t want 75 per cent of the people to turn up, I want 80 and 85 per cent of the people of this region. If we get that mobilisation, we win country,” President Granger reasoned.

He urged residents of the region to mobilise and throw their support, overwhelmingly, behind the coalition – a group of parties that seek to unite the people of Guyana and foster transformational development within country.

FOSTERING DEVELOPMENT In response to the needs

people. In moving forward, the President Granger assured that the APNU+AFC Coalition will deliver on its promise of providing free education from nursery to university.

In an effort to increase employment opportunities at the community level, the APNU+AFC Administration established programmes such as the Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED), and Guyanese, in particular women, are capitalising on these initiatives the President reported.

Citing an example, he shared that during the initial stages of SLED, a young lady who had attended the New Opportunity Corps, turned

of the people of the country, the Head of State said upon entering office in 2015, his administration took decisive actions to foster developments at the local, regional and national levels, with emphasis on education, entrepreneurship, youth empowerment, infrastructural development and public service.

The Guyana National Service, he pointed out, was abolished under the PPP/C Administration, and in an effort to fill the void, his Administration established the National Youth Corps to cater to the employment needs of young

MONUMENTS OF DEATHS Describing the Opposition Leader as “Pharaoh,” President

Attorney General and Campaign Manager of ECD, Basil Williams

President David Granger and First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger were joined by Prime Ministerial Candidate, Khemraj Ramjattan, and other ministers on stage for the unity dance (Adrian Narine photos)

strong support for the APNU+AFC coalition.

He said the APNU+AFC Coalition has won many battles since bringing an end to the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) 23-year reign in office in May, 2015 but there is a greater battle to be won on March 2 when more than 600,000 Guyanese are expected to vote in the General and Regional Elections.

“We won the battle against the phantom squad; we won the battle against the greatest flood in your lifetime – the floods of 2005; we won the battle against dividing the villages into ‘red’ villages and ‘green’

Corporations have also benefitted from the reduction of the corporate tax rate for manufacturing and non-commercial companies from 30 per cent to 27.5 per cent. The value-added tax (VAT) was reduced to 14 per cent and the VAT threshold was increased from $10M to $15M. Pensioners, President Granger told the multitude of supporters, were not forgotten, pointing out that they too experienced increases with the Old Age Pension jumping from $7,500 to over 20,000.

her life around into a business woman, having capitalised on the programme.

PUBLIC SECTOR Turning his attention to the public sector, the President pointed out that since his administration took office, public servants in Guyana have experienced a 70 per cent increase in their wages and salaries.

The minimum wage of public servants and teachers increased by over 70 per cent, or from $ 39,400 to $ 70,000. In 2019, the government granted a nine percent increase to public servants on the lower salary tiers.

Granger urged the people to fear not.

The Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo and the PPP/C, having lost the 2015, has resorted to attacks on the President. Most recent attacks focused on his health, age and a property handed down to him by his brother. But the attacks come at a time when Cuban Specialists have given the President a ‘clean bill of health.’

And while they have criticised him due to his age, President Granger made it clear that he is ‘fit and proper,’ while positing that never in history was he subjected to questioning by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) for questionable acquisition of lands or for using the State’s official letterhead for the acquisition of sensitive surveillance equipment for “crooks and bandits.”

He said the PPP/C has as its legacy 1,431 murders.

These murders, the President said, occurred under the PPP/C Administration between 2000 and 2010 – a period often times described by him as “The Troubles.” Among those killed were Minister of Agriculture, Satyadeow Sawh, but the PPP/C never launched a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the murder. “Do you want the Pharaoh to return to power,” he questioned, with supporters responding with a

President David Granger delivered a fiery speech at the rally

resounding no.

EMPOWERING WOMEN, YOUTHS Meanwhile, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, who was among the night’s speakers, reiterated his support for President Granger’s return to office.

“Comrades I know this man! Included in his vision was making Guyana an educated nation and the inclusion of youths in all facets of decision making. Through the establishment of the Guyana Youth Corps, the Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) and the Hinterland Employment and Youth Service (HEYS) initiatives, he has promoted entrepreneurship, education and empowerment amongst youth,” Minister Williams told the cheering supporters. Added to that, the Head of State provided ‘David G’ buses, boats, bicycles, bags, books and breakfast, he pointed out.

Forming part of the President’s vision is a plan to bridge the gap between the Coastland and Hinterland, the Attorney General said. In keeping with this vision, the APNU+AFC Government established four new towns – Bartica, Lethem, Mabaruma, and Mahdia.

“These towns have taken on a life of their own, delivering rapid services and transforming the lives of people,” the Attorney General reported.

Added to that, he established a Department of Social Cohesion in its quest to build a cohesive society.

“His vision for Guyana also includes Guyana transitioning to a ‘green’ economy to ensure our sustainable development and proper management of our resources for all Guyanese and future generations,” Minister Williams further pointed out even as he alluded to the Green State Development Strategy Vision: 2040 and the Decade of Development.

Like the President, he called on Guyanese to give the APNU+AFC Coalition their overwhelming support come March 2. Minister of Public Security and Prime Ministerial Candidate of the APNU+AFC, Khemraj Ramjattan; Minister of Health, Volda Lawrence; Minister of Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley; Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes and Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton were among the officials present.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

China coronavirus: Lunar New Year subdued as outbreak spreads (BBC) China is marking the Lunar New Year, one of the most important dates in its calendar, while concerns grow about the coronavirus outbreak.

As millions go home for the holidays, travel restrictions have been expanded to 13 cities - home to more than 36 million people - in Hubei province, the centre of the outbreak.

There are currently 830

confirmed cases in China, 26 of whom have died.

The virus has now spread to Europe, with two cases confirmed in France.

The first case was in Bordeaux, while the second was in the Paris area, the French health minister said on Friday night.

Wuhan, where the outbreak began, is rapidly building a new hospital.

The city - home to around

11 million people - is struggling to cope with the increasing number of patients.

State-owned news outlet Changjiang Daily said the 1,000-bed hospital could be ready by 3 February. A total of 35 diggers and 10 bulldozers are currently working on the site.

The project will “solve the shortage of existing medical resources” and would be “built

fast [and] not cost much... because it will be prefabricated buildings”, the outlet said.

Videos have been circulating on social media, reportedly taken by Wuhan residents, showing long queues at local hospitals.

What restrictions are in place in Hubei?

Travel restrictions vary from city to city. Wuhan is effectively on lockdown: all

bus, metro and ferry services have been suspended, and all outbound planes and trains cancelled.

Residents have been advised not to leave, and roadblocks have been reported.

Ezhou, a smaller city in Hubei, shut its railway station. The city of Enshi has suspended all bus services.

Trump first president to attend anti-abortion March for Life

(BBC) Donald Trump has become the first US president to attend the anti-abortion movement’s biggest rally.

He addressed thousands of protesters at the March for Life near the US Capitol where his impeachment trial is ongoing.

Mr Trump said: “We’re

here for a very simple reason: to defend the right of every child born and unborn to fulfill their God-given potential.”

The annual demonstration first began in 1973 - the year the US Supreme Court legalised abortion in Roe v Wade.

Until now no president had

SATURDAY JANUARY 25, 2020 - 05:30hrs

ever attended the march, which takes place just steps from the White House, though previous Republican presidents, including George W Bush and Ronald Reagan, did address the group remotely. In a foreshadowing of Mr Trump’s appearance at the event, Mike Pence became the first sitting vice-president to attend the rally in 2017.

Mr Trump’s appearance at the 47th March for Life delighted protesters on Friday on the National Mall, the central thoroughfare in the heart of Washington DC. Demonstrators shouted “four more years” and “we love you”. Evangelical Christians and other social conservatives are a key part of the president’s base, and he has continued to court them as his re-election campaign ramps up.

March for Life president Jeanne Mancini said in a statement that Mr Trump and his administration “have been consistent champions for life”.

But pro-choice groups said his appearance was a distraction tactic.

Ilyse Hogue, the president of NARAL Pro-Choice America, said it was “a desperate attempt to divert attention from his criminal presidency and fire up his radical base” America’s two main political parties are more polarised than ever on the issue of abortion. Democrats campaigning for November’s White House election are unapologetically pro-choice. In 2016, the party for the first time included in its platform a call to repeal the Hyde Amendment, a decades-old law that prohibits using taxpayer money for abortions.

Last year, leading White House contender Joe Biden was sharply criticised by his Democratic rivals for initially backing the Hyde Amendment.

Amid uproar from the party’s liberal base, he reversed course in June.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

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Mexico indigenous group recruits children as police after attack (BBC) About 20 children have been recruited for an indigenous community police force in western Mexico following a deadly attack blamed on a drug cartel.

Some of the children, aged between eight and 14, were handed rifles while others paraded with sticks on a road in the town of Chilapa in Guerrero state.

Last week, 10 indigenous musicians were killed in an ambush as they returned from a party.

The area is rife with gang

The children have been recruited after an attack last week

violence and many villagers create their own police.

The children were being

trained to defend their town from attacks by criminal gangs, according to the group

which represents the local indigenous people, known by its Spanish initials CRAC-PF. The children, who all wore olive green T-shirts and had their faces covered with bandanas, lined up on the road leading into the town.

They were also pictured carrying out military-style exercises.

More than 20 children lost their fathers when gunmen opened fire on the car in which the Sensación Musical group was returning from a gig they had played the pre-

vious day. Some of the boys are reportedly the sons of the musicians killed.

A criminal gang calling itself Los Ardillos has been blamed for the attack. The group has targeted indigenous communities in the past.

Local media said the move was aimed at sending a message to Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador about the lack of security forces in the area.

The president has opted for a non-confrontational approach to the cartels, focusing

instead on tackling inequality under a policy dubbed “abrazos, no balazos” - hugs not bullets.

Guerrero is one of Mexico’s most violent states, where drug gangs fight for control of trafficking routes to the Pacific and other parts of the country.

In many rural parts of Mexico, locals create vigilante groups who patrol the area in an attempt to keep the criminal gangs at bay.

A year on, Guaido’s image in trouble as opposition faces cracks (AL JAZEERA) It was a tense scene earlier this month when Venezuela opposition members, led by Juan Guaido, attempted to climb the fence outside the country’s National Assembly after being barred entrance by security forces.

The scene offered a dramatically different picture of the opposition leader, who a year ago rallied tens of thousands as he invoked the country’s constitution to declare himself interim president, receiving the almost immediate support of the United States and dozens of other Western countries.

But a year later, President Nicolas Maduro appears to have an even tighter grip on his control as the opposition continues to fracture. And Guaido, struggling to maintain support at home amid the country’s deepening economic crisis, faces more challenges ahead, analysts say.

“The opposition has lost its influence in the country,” said Ronal Rodriguez, a professor and researcher at the Venezuelan Observatory, a think-tank at the University of Rosario in

Colombia.

“The situation has changed, and people have started to leave the politics behind, and have instead focused on the day-to-day problems,” he told Al Jazeera.

“The passion and enthusiasm that Guaido awoke has started to fade.”

Guaido: A new ‘interim president’ Tensions in Venezuela escalated after Maduro was in for a second term on January 10, following elections deemed fraudulent by his opponents and much of the international community.

Days later, on January 23, at a massive rally in Caracas, Guaido declared himself acting president until new elections were held.

He established a way forward with three main goals: “the end of usurpation, a transitional government, and free elections.”

The US, Canada, and 14 Latin American countries backed his interim presidency, while hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans took to the streets to show their support for

the then-35-year-old engineer.

Maduro labelled the move an attempted “coup”.

“That was a big moment for us,” said Laura Hidalgo, a retired professor and opposition supporter in Venezuela.

“A hope that we thought lost came back again, that was my first feeling with a huge faith that change was indeed possible,” she told Al Jazeera.

Eventually, more than 50 countries recognised Guaido as the country’s rightful leader.

But Maduro maintained the support of China, Cuba, Turkey and Russia, among other countries, as well as most of Venezuela’s institutions, including the military.

On January 28, Washington imposed sanctions on Venezuela’s state oil company PDVSA and handed control of its US bank accounts to Guaido.

“The sanctions were aimed at the drowning of the government,” said Carlos Pina, a Venezuelan analyst.

“Although it partially weakened it, these measures did not achieve its main task,” Pina told Al Jazeera.

“Maduro managed to find other ways to obtain financial resources, such as the use of mining, specifically the extraction of gold,” he added.

“The support of countries like Russia or Turkey, also allowed his administration to circumvent the effect of the sanctions.”

Guaido’s image suffers blows Attempting to address the needs of the country, Guaido made bringing humanitarian aid a priority.

Venezuela has suffered from severe food and medicine shortages since 2007.

In 2016, the National Assembly declared a humanitarian crisis, and requested the government of Maduro to provide essential medicines and medical supplies. The government denied the claim saying that those arguments were only used to justify foreign intervention.

In early February 2019, trucks carrying food and medical supplies from the US arrived at the borders of Brazil and Colombia.

“The humanitarian aid will enter to Venezuela,” Guaido

said on February 12.

But Maduro slammed what he called “fake humanitarian aid”, as a plot for US “military invasion”.

Maduro’s government ordered the closure of land frontiers with Brazil and Colombia, as well as sea and air links with Curacao in the Caribbean.

Defying a ban on leaving the country, Guaido attended on February 22 a Venezuelan aid concert inside Colombia organised by Richard Branson.

The next day, clashes broke out Venezuela’s border with Brazil and Colombia and only one truck was able to deliver aid.

The unrest left at least four dead, and more than 200 injured.

Analysts say failed attempt at bringing humanitarian aid to the country, and later to promote a change to the government, has contributed to problems Guaido and the opposition face today.

“One of the main problems with Guaido and his campaign was the level of expectation it generated,” said Jose Meza,

a Venezuelan journalist and analyst. “They didn’t properly assess what could realistically be achieved with the resources they had, while Maduro was able to manage all the difficulties that were raised.”

Months after the aid attempts, part of Guaido’s team was accused of irregularities in the handling of funds destined for the failed operation.

According to Rodriguez, this was another major blow.

“On a subject as sensitive as humanitarian aid, this was a strong blow to [Guaido’s] image,” Rodriguez said.

“It generated mistrust among some opposition lawmakers, some of which ended up switching sides with the government, while it also generated questions among those who supported them,” he added. “Many fear that the resources given will be lost in the pockets of some opposition lawmakers, and later used for personal gains.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

The Linden school incident and bullying ON Thursday, many citizens were aghast after reviewing the gruesome incident at a Linden school, where a school girl was stabbed by her classmate.

The 15-year-old, up to press, was said to be in a stable condition and was recovering from the wound she sustained when her attacker stabbed her with a knife. The incident, as this newspaper reported, was video-recorded and went viral on social media. It showed another student approaching the girl from behind and plunging a long knife in her back, in the presence of students and adults. According to the police, the victim was stabbed by the sister of the other girl who was involved in the fight. The video showed the girl standing and watching on. She then took out a knife from her bag and

stabbed the victim to the left side of her lower back.

The fight took place in proximity to the school in Amelia’s Ward. The victim was rushed to the hospital, in a taxi, by public-spirited persons, after blood was ‘gushing out’ of her back, with the ‘Rambo knife’ still stuck in the wound. This incident followed another violent one at another school in Linden, which occurred on Wednesday, when a student was chopped. A few weeks ago, another student from the same secondary school stabbed a classmate and was arrested.

These incidents, along with the attacks on teachers by parents, present a worrying sign, especially for our school system. Government no doubt would have to beef up security around the schools and this does not only include the presence

of security guards, but periodic random searches of the bags of students. Thursday’s incident in Linden also brings into focus, again, the issue of bullying in schools. It is no secret that bullying in schools has not been tackled frontally by parents, teachers and the Ministry of Education. We have seen countless videos on social media of physical fights between students with their fellow classmates cheering them on.

School bullying has probably been around since the 18th century. It is a negative human condition that has evolved along with the mind and psyche. Bullying started with children ‘picking’ on each other or parents believing that they are teaching their kids “discipline” by beating them. Adults used to believe that kids fought only to be “best friends in the end.”

Bullying also resulted from conforming to prejudiced social norms like gender stereotyping of men and women. The idea of “boys will be boys” and “girls are catty” has given way to accepting unacceptable negative social behaviour. However, with awareness and strategies, bullying in school can be controlled.

According to a report in one of the daily newspapers, in May of 2012, a call was made by lecturer attached to the University of Guyana’s Tain Campus, Maureen Bynoe, for the Ministry of Education to adapt a national anti-bullying strategy to target students of all ages. The report stated that Bynoe’s proposal was premised on a survey she conducted, aimed at assessing the extent bullying has infiltrated schools along Central Corentyne, Ber-

bice. The study discovered that ethnicity was a major factor that contributed to bullying in the school system.

Aside from the reasons as to why students bully each other, the study, according to Bynoe, focused on the forms of bullying, the consequences of bullying on the victim, what strategies have been effective in dealing with bullying and whether there was a significant difference in the form of bullying due to gender.

While this lecturer’s study focused on schools in Berbice, we believe a similar study needs to be conducted by the Ministry of Education, focusing on schools across the country with major involvement from students, parents and teachers.

With this study, we will know the core issue that leads to bullying and from there an action

plan can be drafted and implemented. The bullies will be identified and get the necessary help. Parents and teachers need to work together as they play an integral role in preventing bullying. Teachers especially need to pay more attention to students’ behaviour.

For a start, we urge that a national anti-bullying awareness campaign be launched across schools. There should be the implementation of firm school-wide rules with severe punishment for bullying. Further, there should be anti-bullying messages and information in school-related publications, newspapers and signboards and also schools should implement Systems of rewards for the kindest and most creative learners. The time to act is now. We need to protect our children.

APNU+AFC making a herculean effort with a PPP-wrecked health service Dear Editor,

TODAY for my third instalment of 20 completed projects by the APNU+AFC government in 2019. I do wish to briefly write on the health service. The health service was mismanaged for 23 years under PPP, leaving the APNU+AFC with a Herculean task of reversing a health service which was having its dying breath. In this morbid state, it was impossible to restore full health in five years to a health service which was starved of good management and leadership nutrients for 23 years, by the negligent and corrupt PPP. Therefore to look at the present state of the health service and formulate a holistic conclusion, one cannot ignore the state it was handed over to the APNU+AFC government.

To elaborate on this point, I do wish to highlight two recent experiences. A known activist, who is part of The Citizen Initiative, was attempting to somewhat, in an awkward and juvenile manner, argue that the health service under this government is worse than that of PPP. To support her unreasoned case, she displayed a random and likely googled image, on her Facebook page. She ridiculously argued that it is the doctor’s kitchen at the West De-

merara Hospital. This level of infantile and unscientific argument is disturbing for someone who wishes to lead the country.

Let’s say for argument sake she is correct, which I highly doubt, how can one random picture of a kitchen in a state of disrepair, define a government’s success or failure where healthcare is concerned? The very lady again took some random pictures and fallaciously argued, without any evidence, that Linden Hospital is short of sterile gloves and she is accepting donation for same. I am not sure where she would have purchased the sterile gloves since they are not available in stores. The simple reason is that they are generally used for surgeries and invasive procedures and the last time I checked they were not done in peoples’ homes, hence no need for departmental stores to sell them. The CEO of the Linden Hospital Complex rightfully dismissed her silly claims. I say this to alert the electorate of those who will present and publish random photos as facts.

Such naysayer politicians and their propaganda should be dismissed with the disdain they deserve. Let them bring the hard evidence like we do in the APNU+AFC. Medicine has evolved from the time I was in medical school. When I was a medical student, medicine was clinician

centred. This essentially mean what the doctor wants, the doctor gets. Not dissimilar to Prince Harry’s “what Meghan wants, Meghan gets” comment.

In effect, the patients hadn’t a voice, absolutely none. Patients’ autonomy was foreign.

I went into the long elaboration to highlight the dire state of the health service when PPP mismanaged it for 23 years.

What I have written is only a microcosm of the larger horror story of the health service under PPP. A few months ago I highlighted disastrous conditions at the New Amsterdam Hospital.

These include the mortuary being in close proximity to the kitchen where patients’ meals are prepared. The smell of decomposing bodies was pervasive in the kitchen. The drain for the mortuary passes through the middle of the kitchen. The doctors’ sleeping area was a boxed off area of four white sheets and a bed.

The hospital beds and hospital environ were in a deplorable state. The APNU+AFC Government took action and now the New Amsterdam Hospital and doctors’ quarters are in a much better state than in was under PPP. Those who wish to be critical of the government should come with facts and not google images.

As part of my 20 completed projects for 2019, I will

highlight the construction of the Mahaicony Hospital lab in Region Five which now facilitates a 24/7 service. Prior to this, patients had to travel to Georgetown. Now the service is there at the patients’ doorstep. Patient-centred care.

Also as part of the completed projects is the Skeldon District Hospital state-of-the-art digital lab in Region Six. This lab has reduced the need for referrals to New Amsterdam Hospital.

Patient-centred care. These developments are not only in Regions Five and Six. They span the length and breadth of the country. Building of hospitals, renovation of hospitals, and building and renovation of health centres decentralises the healthcare service and makes it more patient-friendly. It reduces the patient burden at GPHC. Building and renovation accommodation for the staff of the health service will make them feel valued. An employee that feels valued is more productive.

There is much more to be done since there was much that was not done by PPP for 23 years.

Now I will introduce you to the third installment of APNU+AFC completed projects for 2019: Some of the completed projects for 2019 in Regions Five and Six 41. Early Childhood Centre in Ithaca ($36M)

42. Calcutta Nursery School ($33M) 43. Woodley Parks Science Lab ($14M) 44. Mahaicony Hospital Lab with 24hr service 45. D’Edward indoor sluice ($414M) 46. Multiplex and Park for West Coast Berbice ($148M) 47. Mora point pump ($225M) 48. Central Mahaicony ground lights 49. Strengthening Mahaicony Sea Defence 50. New farm to market road ($100M) 51. Guyana Land and Surveys Commission office ($30M) 52. New Sexual offence court ($13M) 53. New Nurses’ Accommodation ($49M) 54. Indian arrival monument at Palmyra 55. Skeldon state of the art lab 56. Brand new power plant at Canefield ($1.7Billion) 57. New science labs at Canje and Erven secondary schools and BEI ($45M) 58. New Berbice Passport Office ($57.7M) 59. Lands titles for over 200 Angoy Avenue residents 60. Six internet hotspots in Orealla. Residence can have free internet access.

Last week I addressed

corruption and the consequences of corruption. I also highlighted that a government like the (PPP) that is corrupt would have a negative impact on you the electorate. Now today I have read the great news that Guyana has risen to 85 in the world based on the Transparency International Corruption Perception Index. This is a massive improvement when one is to look at the fact that under the PPP Government, Guyana was languishing in the mid 130’s. This is also significant when one considers that only 22 out of 180 countries have made this degree of improvement. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the government would have more money for infrastructure development, pay increases, social services, health etc. There is much more to be done since there were lots to be done when the APNU+AFC took office.

The choice is clear. A corrupt PPP government that would reverse all the developments you have seen or an APNU+AFC government that will govern and develop the whole of Guyana.

Regards, Dr. Mark Devonish MBBS MSc. Med. Ed

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

7

During the PPP regime, vote tallies on SOPs were tampered with and changed

Dear Editor,

THE commercial arm of the opposition PPP, the Private Sector Commission (PPP-PSC), has activated its general elections strategy in support of the PPP’s failing elections campaign.

The PPP-PSC joined former PPP attorney-general, Anil Nandlall, to condemn PNCR Chairman, Volda Lawrence, for calling on APNU+AFC coalition Elections Day workers to be vigilant after the close of poll on March 2, 2020, so as to ensure no one tampers with ballots or ballot boxes.

Ms. Lawrence is right.

During the PPP regime, vote tallies on Statements of Poll (SOPs) were tampered with and changed. Ballot boxes were also handled by PPP members who were unauthorised to do so. Of course, these criminal acts were beneficial to the PPP, and were not condemned by the PSC. It appears that Ms. Lawrence’s call for vigilance has placed a spotlight on, if not disrupted, plans by the PPP and its affiliates to rig the elections by tampering with vote tallies again. Voters must not let this happen again.

Ms. Lawrence’s call for

vigilance is the exact same call made by PPP executive, Clement Rohee, on April 18, 2015, just before the May 11, 2015 general elections. If such vigilance was good for the PPP and PPP-PSC then, it’s good for APNU+AFC coalition supporters and elections workers now. The PSC appears to have endorsed Rohee’s call for PPP supporters to be vigilant.

This blatant PPP-PSC double standard renders it a disgrace and lacking in integrity. It is a Mickey Mouse circus club of good old boys that cannot be taken seriously.

Guyanese must dismiss the

PPP-PSC diatribe as PPP propaganda hogwash, and appropriately accord this PPP front organisation the laughing stock status it deserves. The Guyanese people have expressed the view that a certain entity closely affiliated to the PPP, is allegedly mostly made up off PPP financiers who allegedly benefitted from the criminal enterprises which the PPP regime enabled; the narcotics trade, money laundering, bank fraud and tax evasion.

Clearly, the benefactors of the PPP’s elections campaign are working overtime to defeat President David Granger and

the APNU+AFC coalition, in their quest to restore the good old days when they benefitted from the organised crime promoted and enabled by the then PPP state apparatus. Several male ministers of government have repeated the same call for vigilance without being attacked. Guyanese understand that progressive female political leadership is the antithesis of the value system cultivated by the chauvinistic men in the PPP and affiliated PSC. This bigotry is a driving force inspiring the attacks on the progressive female chairman of the PNCR. Guyanese must reject the

partisan, sexist utterings of these misogynists, and make Ms. Lawrence’s call to vigilance a clarion call of the election campaign. I call on citizens all over Guyana to come out after the close of poll; to be vigilant and take care that their ballots are not tampered with prior to being deposited at the Election Commission. Every APNU+AFC coalition member, surrogate and speaker must now call for post voting vigilance. This must become the Lawrence challenge!

Regards, Rickford Burke

Good people sometimes make bad decisions Dear Editor,

BRIGADIER Mark Phillips, as a former officer of the Guyana Defence Force, I would like to express my sympathy for you, and I will provide reasons for this statement.

I am not here to attack you, but to challenge you. It appears to me and many others that your decision to accept the PPP’s offer as Prime Ministerial Candidate was a poor one.

Most officers of the GDF trained in your time have a

national outlook, because, for us, the nation comes first.

Several other former officers would have refused the offer to become the PPP’s Prime Ministerial Candidate, because they would see no way in which they can influence the PPP to give up its racist attitude, and to concentrate on treating Guyanese as equals.

For 23 years, Afro-Guyanese watched with disgust and saw firsthand how all the visible Africans in the PPP were reduced to stooges and tools in the hands of a relentless racist

We all are one Dear Editor, I was nurtured from adolescent by the old political stalwarts and learned much about Guyana from them, having the fortune to listen to the likes of Andrew L. Jackson, Cheddi Jagan, Eusi Kwayana, Ashton Chase, Jane Phillips-Gay, Winifred Gaskin, Ptolemy Reid, Neville Bissember, Hamilton Green and of course the Master, Forbes Burnham.

We were taught as Afro-Guyanese to respect all people irrespective of race, class, colour or creed. Pre and Post-Independence Guyana, because of the so-called six races, from time to time, experienced stress among the races, – each vying to occupy a special place. Earlier, about six hundred years ago, the Portuguese Island of Madeira had captured African slaves, to work on their plantations and so, when the African slaves won their freedom in 1834, we believed in an effort to lighten the coloured landscape, the British in 1835 turned to Madeira to bring in new people as immigrants to work on the plantation. It soon became evident that the Portuguese Immigrants could not deal with the harsh tropical conditions which existed on the plantations, and they were assisted by the Imperial Master to establish businesses and had a highly-successful merchant community. (Bettencourt, JP Santos, John Fernandes, Nascimento, Correias, Gouveias, D’Aguiar, the Houston Dictator Rum Shops, Pawn Brokers, etc.) We all learnt to hold in high regard many good Portuguese and some Afro-Guyanese even became members of the predominantly Portuguese Roman Catholic Church, but there is always some underlying tension which manifested itself in the famous cent-bread riot when it was alleged a Portuguese businessman had kicked a black boy for stealing a cent bread.

The black lad fell to the ground and words spread that he had died. This caused the generally peaceful children of slaves to react violently, destroying the Portuguese businesses in Water Street and the surrounding areas. It appeared that the colonial system had produced and accepted a pecking order, with the coining of Guyana being a country of six races, where the Immigrant Portuguese were regarded as separate and distinct from the British Administrators perhaps because:

machine. Imagine Sam Hinds and Roger Luncheon steadfastly stifling their consciences while all Afro-Guyanese, plus Freddie Kissoon, condemned the unacceptable behaviour of the PPPC. Let me give you some examples, and you should check my facts. For 23 years, more than 90 per cent of all government contracts went exclusively to PPP supporters. The Afro-Guyanese communities were deliberately suffocated and marginalised. In 1991, King Solomon imported cars, but

by 2014 he was destroyed. In 1991, the Africans in this country had eleven (11) rice mills, today we have one. Do you think this was by accident? The PPP’s aim was to destroy the economic base of Afro-Guyanese at all cost.

The truth is if you ask your predecessors in the PPP, they will tell you they saw nothing wrong with the behaviour of that party, yet most Afro-Guyanese resent them. Since there is no acceptance of any fault, there will be no effort to change. You are taking up where they left

1. They came as Immigrants 2. They were Roman Catholics (then considered less that the Anglican Church) and 3. There were African slaves in Madeioa since around 1420/1430. The English aristocracy may have considered the Portuguese, not a pre-European stock, because who knows the overseers may have caused some Portuguese to have a bit of the tar brush.

Unhappily, this prejudice seems to live on. Note the problems that George III had, when he married Sophia, when the King’s subjects felt that the Queen’s feature suggested she had African blood.

And what do we think is the reason for the harassment of Harry and Meghan. Meghan whose American Mother has African blood. Remember, Dr. Jagan once publicly stated that Afro-Guyanese were at the bottom of the ladder, so you had the British, No. one, Portuguese No. two .

Take your pick for Nos. three, four and five. But according to Jagan, No. six, – the bottom – is Afro-Guyanese.

I don’t know where people of mixed parentage, such as myself, can be squeezed in but back to a present concern. People like the late John Fernandes, Peter Stanislaus D’Aguiar, David De Caires, Joe Vieira (Snr) of Houston Estate, Eugene Francis Correia, Carl D’Aguiar, (Linden) John Gabriel Joaquin (Kitty) and others were solid patriots and there was no evidence that they held any disregard for Afro-Guyanese.

But in fact, all of the above names, had a most respectful and loving relationship with Afro-Guyanese. I honour them.

When you have a quake of crabs or a basket of mangoes, as happens everywhere, you will find a few rotten ones in between.

off, and that is why you are likely to fail. Had you the courage to criticise the PPP when they were wrong and commended them when they were right, people would believe in you.

However, that is a price which you may not be prepared to pay, hence, Brig. Mark, we all think that you are just another face. You may be capable, but not courageous at all. If your motive is purely personal, then that is your right, but do not try to deceive Afro- Guyanese, because you are toying with the lives, livelihood, and the future

of generations.

For us, it is better that the PPP loses and you fade away as a bad dream, than for the party to win and you become a laughing stock like Sam Hinds, Juan Edghill, Roger Luncheon and the Reverend Kwame Gilbert; all “fell in and covered down” with their tails between their legs.

Yours Truly, Former Army Officer Name Withheld

Some of these rotten ones provoked the Late President Desmond Hoyte to explode referring to certain groups as the “Potagee Mafia.”

Mr. Editor, my question is with the likes of Harry Gill, Tony Vieira, Gerry Gouveia, are we seeing a resurgence of the philosophy of a “Potagee Mafia?”, I hope not. One of the experienced politicians, this week, cautioned Mr. Gouveia, who was allegedly speaking on behalf of the Private Sector Commission, to be careful not to appear to be biased against certain folks. I know the masses will not take kindly to such a stance.

Regards, Nigel Bacchus

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 25, 2020

More evidence proves PPP’s hypocrisy GTT reminds regarding GECOM legal representation customers to beware of scammers

MORE evidence has been uncovered which proves hypocritical the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP’s) objection to attorney Roysdale Forde representing the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), due to him being named as a candidate of the APNU+AFC. The Guyana Chronicle recently reported that, for several years, some of GECOM’s top lawyers, PPP bigwigs, Senior Counsel, Ashton Chase and Doodnauth Singh represented the body without any issue.

Under the PPP, Singh was a former Minister of Legal Affairs and a Member of Parliament (MP) from 2001 to 2009.

Before taking up the posts, a top official at GECOM told this newspaper that, in 1997, Singh represented GECOM in the well-known Esther Pereira Elections Petition case brought against GECOM

by Georgetown resident and People’s National Congress 1998 (PNC) supporter, which saw the 1997 elections being vitiated.

Meanwhile, Chase, through his firm, Ashton Chase Associates, benefitted from millions of dollars in contracts, having been retained, for years, as the Commission’s lawyer. Chase has been hailed by the party as a “comrade” who was there at the very foundation of the Political Affairs Committee

(PAC), the forerunner to the PPP. While the newspaper previously only reported on the $365,000 received for “consultation, instructions, appearance pleadings representation, urgency consultation, oral and written advice” in a Full Court action filed by attorney, Saphier Husain Subedar, against the CEO, research brings forth more evidence.

In February 2012, Ashton Chase Associates was paid $200,000 to represent GECOM and others in a court action filed by King

Chase’s firm was contracted for $500,000, again in relation to the 2012 Full Court action filed by GNCPP. Also representing the Commission in the past was Attorney-at-law, Sanjeev Datadin, a known supporter of the PPP. In 2016, Datadin was contracted by GECOM to represent the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) in a Full Court action filed by Ganga Persaud.

He was contracted for the sum of $500,000 to provide his legal opinion and to represent the Commission in the case.

Datadin was the prosecu-

Former Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall and Senior Counsel, Ashton Chase, in discussion, shortly after the hearing in the Chief Justice Chambers with regards to the 2014 court matter

and Bacchus. Later that year Ashton Chase Associates received $680,000 to represent GECOM in a Full Court action filed by the Guyana National Council on Public Policy (GNCPP). In 2013,

tor alongside former PPP Attorney General, Anil Nandlall in 2011 and, in 2017, stood by the side of Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo when he was held at the Headquarters of the Special Organised Crime

- company says constantly putting measures in place to reduce fraud reports

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo and Attorney Sanjeev Datadin leave the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in March 2017 in relation to the Pradoville 2 land scam. (Inews photo)

Unit (SOCU) in relation to the Pradoville Two land scam.

That same year Datadin was present on the list of 6 persons submitted by the Opposition Leader to President David Granger for the selection of a new GECOM Chair --- a list which the President deemed non-confirming to the criteria laid down within the Constitution.

Fast forward to 2019, Datadin represented former Alliance For Change (AFC) parliamentarian Charrandas Persaud.

Persaud is now widely known for crossing the floor of the National Assembly on December 21, 2018 to vote alongside the PPP in hopes of toppling the current government with his vote following the debate of the no-confidence motion

against the government. In the recent past, Datadin has filed applications to the CCJ on behalf of former parliamentarian Charrandass Persaud to prevent a sitting of the National Assembly (dismissed); against government-nominated GECOM Commissioners on behalf of Marcel Gaskin for alleged conspiracy to breach the constitution (dismissed); and is now representing the recently-extradited Marcus Bisram, currently facing a charge of murder in Guyana for an incident which occurred in 2016. For the 2020 elections, he has been listed as a candidate of the PPP, proving strong the ties forged over a decade ago.

Man in custody for allegedly Youth Village ... knifing reputed wife to death

FROM PAGE

A 56-year-old man, Terrence Jackson, is being processed for court, after he, allegedly, knifed to death Somattie Kiasran, his reputed wife and the mother of his six children, on Thursday evening. The incident took place at Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara.

This publication was told that, just after 19:00hrs on Thursday, the woman and the man got into an argument while at their lot 36 Virginia Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara home.

As a consequence, the man whipped out a knife from a bag and allegedly stabbed the woman several times about her body. He also reportedly slit her throat before fleeing.

On Friday morning, diligent work by the police detectives in Division 4C resulted in Jackson’s capture.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle at the couple’s home, the couple’s sixteen-year-old daughter Sherry Jackson recalled what she witnessed.

“A lot of time he does tell me he gon kill my mother, he gon stab she and so but I hide it from she which is my fault too and he ain’t had no right to do such thing because now we both left without somebody” she related.

The young lady said that her father had been accusing her mother of being unfaithful to him.

On Thursday after the two began

to argue the woman reportedly said that she was going to sleep on the floor and that her reputed husband could use the bed.

“She told him peacefully that she is not sleeping with him tonight and then she turned and told him that she only need the mattress and netting,” her daughter recalled.

Meanwhile the Guyana Police Force, in a release, confirmed that the suspect had been taken into custody and that an investigation on-going “Investigations thus far revealed that at about 19:45 hrs on Thursday, January 23, 2020, Somattie Kiasran returned home and found her daughter and the suspect at home. After having a shower she was accused by the suspect of having an affair with a ‘car man’ [following which] she went into the bedroom, collected a mattress along with a mosquito net, then told the suspect she will sleep outside,” the release said.

According to the release, the suspect, who became annoyed, retrieved a knife from the kitchen and dealt her several stabs about her body and fled the scene.

Police said Kiasran was rushed to the Mahaicony Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival. The suspect is in police custody assisting with the investigation, Police said.

on the horizon, and I refer to our oil and gas, our investment in youth empowerment and development will only grow. Your children and children’s children will depend on you to make the right choices to help Guyana, to keep Guyana on an upward trajectory. I am confident that we are in good hands and are on the right path. Keep striving for greatness, elevate yourself and commit to this great land of ours,” Norton urged.

Also delivering remarks at the event was Regional Information Officer for Region Three, Ganesh Mahipaul, who spoke on “Reflections of Guyana’s History Leading Up to the 50th Republic Anniversary”; while “Leadership and Youth’s Role in Transforming Guyana,” remarks were slated to be made by Ronald Austin Jr. Booths at the exhibition which opened from 10:00 hours included several private, mostly-small businesses, as well as government entities such as the Ministry of Public Health’s Mental Health Unit; and the Ministry of the Presidency Department of Public Service.

“As mental healthcare providers we are here to support our youths, they are the face of today and we want to see them become the face of tomorrow, so we’re here to give them that support,” shared Evelyn Ganesh, a licensed psychologist and Health Educator.

05

“Educating the youths is powerful and useful, if our youths are equipped with skills of critical thinking thoughts of suicide would be avoidable. Our youths out number us as adults so we have to support them.”

Educational institutions with booths at the event included Nations University, Global Technology, University of Guyana, the Guyana School of Agriculture and the Board of Industrial Training (BIT).

The Small Business Bureau sponsored a booth for the fifth form business students of the North Georgetown Secondary School to display some of the products they have made, and were recently on display at the school’s Business Fair last week.

Some of the products that were created by the various groups of fifth form students were health cookies, bath soaps, facial cleansers, hair products, health shakes, body scrubs, wines and scented candles.

There was also a booth from the National Museum, as well as Parliament.

Bringing down the curtain on the event will be and international concert where Rupee, KI, Timeka Marshall and reigning Soca Monarch, Brandon Harding are scheduled to perform.

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) is urging customers to be more vigilant and seek verification of promotions as the company has seen an increase in fraud reports during 2019.

According to GTT’s Vice President of Customer Experience and Quality, Orson Ferguson, the number of fraud reports has increased despite the company’s effort to put measures in place to reduce scams, as he believes scammers are evolving.

“We are constantly putting measures in place to reduce the likelihood of customers being scammed. The problem is that it all comes down to people trusting the person on the other end of the line to give them enough personal information so that they can use it to take monies out of their accounts, or even sending them the money directly,” Ferguson said.

He explained that recently the scammers have taken a move to landline users seeking their National Identification numbers. “All of our promotions are on our website with the complete details which includes what winners should expect. We also would never ask customers to provide sensitive information like PINs or to have them send us their ID,” Ferguson said.

He added, “If anyone sends you a SMS or calls about being a winner, the first and only thing you should do is check our website at www.gtt.co.gy/ promotions or call our customer care service at 0488 to query.” The VP of Customer Experience and Quality reminds that the company has no ongoing promotions currently.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 25, 2020

Stigma, discrimination remain barriers to tackling leprosy- Min Lawrence

MINISTER of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, said that while Guyana is currently in the phase of eliminating Leprosy in accordance with standards established by the World Health Organisation (WHO), stigma and discrimination remain barriers to treatment.

WHO describes Leprosy as a chronic disease caused by a slow multiplying bacillus or a rod-shaped bacterium called Mycobacterium leprae.

Due to the nature of the disease, which is also known as the Hansen’s disease, it is transmitted via droplets from the nose and mouth during close and frequent contacts with untreated cases, WHO explained. However, it takes approximately five to eight years to develop while symptoms can take as long as 20 years to appear.

During a ceremony, at the National Cultural Centre, to mark the start of a month of activities in observance of the 68th World Leprosy Day, the Public Health Minister, in her address, said Guyana has recorded significant strides in treating and reducing the prevalence of Leprosy but said there is much more work to be done for total eradication.

When the Leprosy Control Programme was established in Guyana in the late 60s, more than 950 patients with leprosy had registered.

To date, there are less than 90 patients on the treatment register. “Many persons affected by leprosy are victims of social discrimination. The theme for this year’s observance is focused on “Stigma and Human Rights of persons affected by leprosy”. Unfortunately, the stigma and fear of rejection and isolation which leprosy still evokes, often keeps people from

seeking early treatment,” Minister said.

She said once diagnosed, it is important for persons living with Leprosy to undergo the Multi-Drug Therapy.

Early detection, she posited, can result in Leprosy being brought under control.

In 2019, Guyana registered 27 new patients – a reduction, when compared to 50 in 2018. There were 17 males and 10 females – among them two children below the age of 15. In 2015, five children were registered in the Leprosy Control Programme. In providing the statistics, the Public Health Minister said the records show that 88 per cent of the new patients had the severe type of leprosy and eight of those patients when diagnosed had visible disabilities.

“There is still much more

especially among our children that are still affected by the disease,” Minister said.

In accordance with the Global Leprosy Strategy, the Public Health Ministry, through the Leprosy Control Programme, has been increasing the number of skilled Leprosy staff, thereby improving treatment and access. In 2011, there was only one doctor attached to the programme but today, that number has jumped to four.

One of the nurses, attached to the programme, is currently doing Nursing at the University of Guyana.

“The Guyana Leprosy Control Programme must ensure that anyone affected by leprosy can access his/her medication from their nearest clinic point. We must continue to train community health workers to identify suspected

she underscored.

In going forward, the Leprosy Control Programme will be increasing its partnership with other specialized health programmes (services), such as surgery and ophthalmology, to improve the quality of life for persons living with Leprosy. Minister Lawrence said it is important Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence

Director of the Leprosy Control Programme, Dr. Heather Morris-Wilson

Officer (DCMO), Dr. Karen Cordon-Campbell, while expressing appreciation to PAHO/WHO for its unwavering support, said Guyana has been supporting positive signs in the reduction of Leprosy. “For us to qualify for this [elimination] we must have a prevalence of less than one case per 10,000 popula-

Minister of Public Health, staff of the Leprosy Control Programme and a number of students pose with the Ardie – the Armadillo at the National Cultural Centre (Photos by Elvin Croker)

work to be done but I have hope and am assured of success, as we in Guyana continue to work with PAHO/WHO declaration in the Global Leprosy Strategy 2016–2020: Accelerating towards a leprosy-free world, which aims to reinvigorate efforts to control leprosy and avert disabilities,

cases of leprosy especially in the outlying areas, and to refer them for treatment. In countries like Guyana, that have reached the elimination levels stipulated by WHO it is essential to ensure that control activities are upgraded, sustained and the leprosy situation is closely monitored,”

for persons with Leprosy to be productive members of society. Similar, she said there is need to link the Leprosy Control Programme with vocational training programes, Social Services and community-based rehabilitation (CBR) programmes.

Deputy Chief Medical

tion. As of December 2019, we recorded a registered prevalence of 0.75 per 10,000 population,” she pointed out.

For the downward trend in prevalence of Leprosy to be maintained, the DCMO said Guyana must increase the number of trained staff to diagnose and treat Leprosy;

train more patient advocates and counsellors; review its strategies and ensure good maintenance of the Leprosy Register.

In delivering her report, Director of the Leprosy Control Programme, Dr. Heather Morris-Wilson said ending stigma and the laws and practices that discriminate against people affected by Leprosy is essential to achieve zero Leprosy.

“Up to 50 percent of people affected by Leprosy will face mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Having been shunned by the family, community and family members, leprosy patients face a high risk of developing psychiatric disorders,” Dr. Morris-Wilson reported.

She was also keen on addressing myths surrounding the disease. The Director reminded that Leprosy is not hereditary and is not as a result of a sin or a curse. Added to that, she made it known that it cannot be transmitted easily. “Leprosy is transmitted by prolonged contact with someone who has the disease and has not been treated. So please remember you cannot contract Leprosy by passing someone on the road or shaking their hand,” she told those present. Importantly, Dr. Morris-Wilson noted that Leprosy is curable with the use of a drug treatment that is free of charge.

PAHO/WHO Country Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow was among the officials present. The launch also featured cultural pieces by the students of the Rhema Global Academy, Association do Shotokan Karate and Success Elementary School. A mini exhibition was also held.

Stena drilling, Falcon Logistics donate $5M to Ptolemy Reid Rehab Centre

Administrator of the Ptolemy Reid’s Rehabilitation Centre, Cynthia Massay, receives the $5M cheque from Stena Drilling Rig Manager, Nick Benzie in the company of other officials, while some of the staff and children at the rehabilitation centre look on (Delano Williams photo)

STENA Drilling Company and Falcon Logistics, in fulfilling their corporate social responsibility, on Friday, donated $5M to the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre to boost its services.

The presentation was held at the centre’s Carmichael Street location.

Administrator of the Pto-

lemy Reid’s Rehabilitation Centre, Cynthia Massay, thanked the companies for the kind gesture.

Falcon Logistics is a Guyanese-owned company and its partnership with Stena Drilling has resulted in the assistance for the rehabilitation centre.

She said Stena Drilling

company’s logo (Care, Innovation and Performance) incorporates its desire to assist the rehabilitation centre with its development.

Stena Drilling Rig Manager, Nick Benzie, said that, during the Christmas holiday, the company had a raffle where it raised monies on the ship from the crew members,

and the company’s head office agreed to match the amount raised.

“And thanks to our friends at Falcon, they also agreed that they would match that so we will present a cheque of $5M Guyanese dollars,” he said.

Meanwhile, he explained that the company is responsible for drilling the hole that ExxonMobil needs for oil wells offshore.

“We do all the work before the oil is loaded onto the ships, we create the wells, basically,” he said.

Benzie said the company strongly supports the local communities in which it operates.

“We are very conscious of the effect we can have on the local communities; we want to be successful and we want to share that success with the people of Guyana.

We support as much local

businesses as we can; we also employ locals to work on our rigs as well, because they have a great potential to create a fantastic career in the oil industry,” the rig manager said.

He said the oil industry in Guyana is exploding exponentially and there is much potential for growth since it is a completely new industry to country.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 25, 2020

Guyana human rights record comes under review by UNHRC next week

GUYANA’S HUMAN RIGHTS record will be examined by the UN Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group, for the third time, on Wednesday, January 29, 2020 in a meeting that will be webcast live and the government in its national report highlighted its efforts in improving the lives of citizens in the various sectors.

According to a release by the UN, Guyana is one of the 14 States to be reviewed by the UPR Working Group during its upcoming session taking place from January 20 to 31, the UNDP said in a release. Guyana’s first and second UPR reviews took place in May 2010 and January 2015, respectively.

The documents on which the reviews are based are: 1) national report - information provided by the State under review; 2) information contained in the reports of independent human rights experts and groups, known as the Special Procedures, human rights treaty bodies, and other UN entities; 3) information provided by other stakeholders including national human rights institutions, regional organizations and civil society groups. The UPR is a unique process which involves a periodic review of the human rights records of all 193 UN Member States. Since its first meeting was held in April 2008, all 193 UN member States have been reviewed twice within the first and second UPR cycles.

During the third UPR cycle, States are again expected to spell out steps they have taken to implement recommendations posed during their previous reviews which they committed to follow-up on, as well as to highlight recent human rights developments in the country.

The delegation of Guyana will be headed by Ambassador John R. Deep Ford, Permanent Representative of Guyana to the UN Office at Geneva. The three country representatives serving as rapporteurs (“troika”) for the review of Guyana are: Australia, Chile and Pakistan. The UPR Working Group is scheduled to adopt the recommendations made to Guyana at 17:00 hrs on 31 January.

In its national report submitted ahead of the review, Guyana Government said it considers the UPR as a beneficial process in engaging with other States to review and constructively assess progress in recognising and protecting fundamental rights and freedoms on the domestic plane.

Guyana noted that since the presentation of its report to the 2nd UPR, Guyanese have undergone historical political changes including the election of a coalition government immediately following a 23-year rule of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic political party. Political history ‘marched’ on when, on 21st December, 2018, the coalition government lost a vote of no-confidence at the 111th sitting of the National Assembly.

Having fully employed the judicial system to define the Constitutional requirements as the political system entered uncharted waters, General Elections have now been fixed for 2nd March, 2020. “In the midst of the exciting political developments, Guyana has remained firm in its commitment to ensure the continued and progressive enjoyment and protection of citizens’ human rights.

The Republic is also pressing forward with its Green State Development Strategy Vision 2040 which includes human rights’ focused goals such as healthy, educated and socially cohesive population; transparency, accountability and citizen participation; and preservation of land rights of Indigenous Peoples,” the report stated.

During the last UPR process, Guyana confirmed its support for 88 recommendations and noted 55 recommendations for consultation and/or consideration. It continued its engagement on issues such as the abolition of the death penalty, abolition of corporal punishment, and the legal position on sexual relations between adults of the same sex.

ADVANCES, CHALLENGES AND THREATS In the report Guyana alluded to the Green State Development Strategy 2040, which is aimed at achieving eight development objectives which include: Economics Restructuring and Diversification; transition to Renewable and Clean Energy; Healthy, Educated and Socially Cohesive Population; Sustainable Management of Natural Resources; Resilient Infrastructure and Green Towns; Internationally Competitive Trade and Investment; Good Governance and Strong Institutions; and Sound Fiscal Policy.

The report noted that the Guyana Police Force has committed to reducing crime and violence and has outlined priorities in its Strategic Plan 2013-2017, which includes

modernisation of the force. The plan's operational priorities addressed the issues of drugs, domestic violence, juvenile delinquency, and human trafficking. Besides, the report noted that the Government of Guyana has legislation in place that could help combat drug trafficking and money laundering more effectively and mentioned that in January 2015, a new strategic plan to combat drugs in the 2015-2020 period was implemented.

“The government is making major efforts to fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of human trafficking, for which it launched an action plan in 2014.

A new national plan has been created for 2019–2020,” the report stated. It added that in 2015, the overall unemployment rate was 6.9%; this rate was higher among youth (25.1%). Some 18.3% of children between the ages of 5 and 17 performed some type of child labour.

Alluding to the country’s economic prospects, the report referenced the New York-based stock market, Nasdaq, projection of Guyana’s growth rate of 16.3% during the four-year period 2018–2021. It said that with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) size of $3.63 billion (2018 Rank: 160), a growth rate of 4.1% in 2018 and 4.6% in 2019, Guyana’s economy is expected to grow by 33.5% and 22.9% in 2020 and 2021 respectively. According to the report, with a per-capita income of $5,194, Guyana is a middle-income country and is covered by dense forest. It made mention of here being home to fertile agricultural lands and abundant natural resources. Gold, bauxite, sugar, rice, timber and shrimp are among its leading exports. Most notably and most recently, the International Monetary Fund noted that the Guyana economy was projected to grow by 86% in 2020. Ahead of the 2020 projection for ‘first oil’, on December 20th, the production of oil began. December 20th was declared National Petroleum Day

by President, David Granger.

Officer accused of sexually harassing journalist reportedly raped junior rank A SUPERINTENDENT of police is in hot water after a female police rank has come forward accusing him of rape, two weeks after he was accused by a female journalist of sexual harassment.

On Wednesday, Commissioner of Police, Leslie James, confirmed the development when he was asked to comment on the new information coming forward.

The Guyana Chronicle learned that the female police rank made the allegation earlier this week and provided a statement to that effect to police detectives.

The female cop, who at one time worked under the officer at the Criminal investigation Department, had requested to be transferred after a number of unethical advances were made to her as well as the alleged rape.

Last week, Commissioner of Police, Leslie James, told reporters that the officer was stood down from his regular duties.

Based on the information which has since reached this publication, the officer was transferred to another section of the force.

The journalist, who made the sexual harassment claims against the officer two weeks ago, stated that the incident took place as she went to his officer to secure information on a matter which he was handling. The matter involved the discovery of arms and ammunition along with illicit substances.

A number of senior officers were reportedly aware of the allegations made by the journalist, but did nothing.

However, the commissioner of police said while the information about a number of ranks being aware of the information is true, it was accurate to say that nothing was done in relation to the allegation.

He pointed out that they were informed about a matter of sexual harassment but were not told of the specifics of the case and who the other party was.

These matters remain under investigation.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 25, 2020

Foreign Ministry introduces gender affairs suggestion box

THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched a Gender Affairs Committee Suggestion Box, as part of efforts to promote a safe and effective gender-inclusive workplace.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings, lauded the initiative taken by the committee and noted that in keeping with the commitments of the government, the ministry is fully committed to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.

The Gender Affairs Committee was established on February 25, 2019, in keeping with the provisions of the Constitution of Guyana and international commitments to promote gender equality and the empowerment of women, some of which include the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the 1995 Beijing Declaration on Women.

With the support of the Gender Affairs Bureau of the Ministry of Social Protection, the committee works to facilitate and promote gender mainstreaming activities within the ministry while eliminating gender inequality and creating an inclusive workforce. (DPI)

The Gender Affairs Committee Suggestion Box (DPI photos)

‘Decriminalisation of defamation coming’ …gov’t tells UNHRC in report

AS Guyana’s human rights record comes up for review next at the UN’s office in Geneva, the government is promising decriminalisation of defamation here before the end of this year.

In its National Report submitted to the United Nations Human Rights Council ahead of its third Universal Periodic Review next week in Geneva, the Guyana Government said defamation in Guyana remains a criminal offence under the Criminal Law (Offences) Act. The report noted that the Office of the Prime Minister has been working with the Attorney General Chambers towards the decriminalisation of defamation and those amendments will be before parliament before the end of 2020.

Local media houses are frequently being sued by both state and private business officials. Media organisations have been lobbying Guyana and other jurisdictions to abolish criminal defamation for some time now. The International Press Institute has said that criminal libel law was born in an Elizabethan England courtroom as a means for silencing critique of the privileged class.

The body said a law of such anti-

quated ethos, has little place in modern society where the press plays a pivotal role in shaping public discourse. The IPI had been actively campaigning for the governments of the Caribbean to redress their current criminal libel laws. At present, the law is vague and open to indiscriminate and inconsistent implementation, largely wielded to quell dissent and stifle government criticism, IPI had said. While infrequently used in the Caribbean, criminal libel statutes remain, an unnecessary resource at the disposal of any offended official, IPI said, adding that the mere threat of prosecution chills investigation and free speech, sustains corruption, unnecessarily protects public officials, and denies one of the most basic of human rights, freedom of expression. “Criminal libel is one of the most pernicious media constraints in contemporary society. Implemented at the will of any insulted public official, it frequently leaves no recourse for the defendant. In most countries, truth is not a valid defence, leaving defence a vexing proposition.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 25, 2020

Road Closure at the intersection of Mandela Avenue and Ivy Lane THE Ministry of Public Infrastructure wishes to advise the General Public that Ivy Lane at the intersection of Mandela Avenue will be closed to traffic on Monday, January 27, 2020, to Sunday, February 2, 2020.

This is to facilitate drainage construction works under the Sheriff Street Mandela Avenue Road Enhancement Project. The closed inter-

section will be re-opened to traffic on Monday, February 3, 2020 at 06:00hrs. Motorists desirous of accessing Ivy Lane are kindly asked to use alternative routes during this exercise. Pedestrians and motorists are reminded to exercise caution and observe all directional and safety signs in the area. The Ministry of Public Infrastructure regrets any inconvenience caused.

PSC meets Diplomatic representatives of elections observer mission countries THE Private Sector Commission (PSC), on Friday, hosted a meeting with the Diplomatic representatives of the countries providing Electoral Observer Missions for the upcoming General and Regional Elections, said a release from the PSC. The party of dignitaries included the US Ambassador, Sarah-Ann-Lynch; EU Ambassador, Fernando Ponz Canto; Ms. Janine Cocker of the Canadian High Commission and Ms. Samantha Elmes of the British High Commission.

The meeting was held to discuss matters of concern to the PSC with regard to its commitment to the holding of free, fair and peaceful elections and the role of the International Observer Missions invited by the Government of Guyana to observe the Elections.

The International Observer Missions are to be fully imbedded in technical and advisory roles within GECOM and will be observing the elections across the country on polling day, the release said.

“The Private Sector Commission underlined the need to reinforce public confidence in the conduct and administration of the elections by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and was briefed on the programmes and activities already in place and in further progress of the Observer Missions” the release said.

“The Private Sector Commission was informed that the Observer Missions were coordinating their work in Guyana in order to facilitate the maximum possible presence and viable coverage across the country in observing the preparations, the conduct and the conclusion of the electoral process,” the release said.

It noted that the ambassadors and diplomatic representatives endorsed the efforts of the PSC in advancing the introduction of Codes of Conduct governing the political parties and media for the purpose of the elections.

“The Ambassadors and Diplomatic representatives agreed to continue meeting with the Private Sector Commission on an ongoing basis as the occasion may arise for further consultation and an exchange of information,” said the PSA release.

Police constable granted bail

ACTING Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus, on Friday, January 24, 2020, granted a 27-year-old police constable $100,000 bail on an assault charge.

Jamal Watson appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and denied the charge, when it was read to him.

Particulars of the charge stated that, on July 17, 2019, at East Ruimveldt, he unlawfully assaulted Jermaine Wilson, so as to cause him actual bodily harm.

Watson told the court that

he had been serving in the force for four years. Police prosecutor, Adduni Inniss, made on objection to bail being granted to Watson.

Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus released Watson on $100,000 bail and placed him on a bond to keep the peace until the conclusion of the trial or in default two weeks in prison. He was also ordered to stay 200 ft away from Wilson, his residence and his place of employment.

The matter was adjourned until January 31, 2020.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 25, 2020

Nursing: a mission of the heart

MIDWIVES and nurses play a pivotal role in the provision of quality healthcare to mothers, babies and the general public.

The Department of Public Information (DPI) sat down with three of these professionals to learn what drives them as they administer much-needed healthcare, daily, to those who need it.

Merlene Johnson, who is currently stationed at the Industry Health Centre, East Coast Demerara, has been a midwife for 25 years.

“I started as a cleaner at Linden Hospital Complex, but I would always go among the

Midwife, Merlene Johnson

The head nurse noted that

Midwife, Latoya Kellman administers a vaccine to one of her babies as the mother looks on (DPI photo)

nurses at the outpatient department to help with something and from there I grasped a lot. Then one day, I received a call to enroll for the nursing assistant programme and from that day I never regretted my decision,” Johnson recalled.

Working her way up the ladder, she added that her commitment was always to ensure the good health of her patients.

“This profession taught me to be a giver, a nurturer, and I will never stop caring for persons who are in my care, even after I retire next year.

My greatest joy and fulfilment comes when my patients return with the good news that they are doing even better than before,” she remarked.

A little further up the East Coast at the Plaisance Health Centre are Head Nurse, Monique Ward-Towler and Midwife, Latoya Kellman, who related some of their experiences.

Ward-Towler disclosed that originally her dream was to become a journalist but after much consideration and encouragement from her family, she took the step that now sees her in her seventh rewarding year of nursing.

According to Ward-Towler, her job as a nurse has taken her to several communities across Guyana. “I was stationed at the New Amsterdam Hospital when I finished my training. I did a year out-station at Mibicuri Cottage Hospital, then I was transferred to Region Four and placed here at the Plaisance Health Centre.”

her profession had given her a deeper appreciation of life.

“Many of us work with patients who had just 24 hours or less to live and it can be quite physically and emotionally taxing on the nurses, but we try to make them comfortable and console the surviving family members… it’s a job that will make you appreciate life more.”

Midwife Kellman, who has been in the profession for more than eight years, related that the midwifery runs in her family and her greatest accomplishment was ensuring mothers and babies received the best healthcare delivery.

“Sometimes it is an early referral or advice that saves someone’s life; therefore, I take my job seriously. For those considering entering the nursing sector, I want them to understand it takes great patience and challenging oneself to do better will pay off in a positive way that will benefit those who rely on us,” she explained.

All three healthcare professionals noted their appreciation for the UN’s dedication of 2020 as The Year of the Nurse and Midwife since they feel it would help to highlight the pluses and challenges they face.

Since 2015, the Ministry of Public Health has implemented massive upgrades in the public health infrastructure and provided necessary equipment and training to ensure citizens have access to quality healthcare in all 10 regions. (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday January 25, 2020

Guyana talks up advancements in welfare of PWDs, water access ADVANCEMENT in the welfare of people living with disabilities, as well as enforcement of the rights of children and women, have been highlighted in Guyana’s report submitted for review by the United Nations Human Rights Council, scheduled for next week in Geneva.

Guyana’s report provides information on recommendations made and whether these were fully or partially implemented by the country, along with an update on pending

and noted recommendations.

Those which fell under full implementation relate to PWDs, corporal punishment, water, education, housing, Trafficking in Persons (TIP), health, and domestic and sexual violence. In the interest of PWDs, the government highlighted access to housing through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) and the National Household Survey of PWDs to ascertain their needs, capacities and living conditions.

The prohibition of cor-

poral punishment in institutional residences and juvenile correctional institutions through the Juvenile Justice Act 2018 was also alluded to.

The category also pinpointed improved access to drinking water and sanitation for over 60,000 citizens countrywide through the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI); steps to combat child labour through Welfare Officers and Labour Officers; the allocation of 77 per cent of all lands from 2015 to November 2019 to low and middle income fami-

lies; the establishment of safe houses in relation to TIP and more.

With regards to health, the government noted its progressions in the UNAIDS 90-9090 targets to end the global epidemic of HIV, which saw the country achieving the first “90” ahead of the 2020 timeline; the implementation of the Health and Family Life Education curriculum (HFLE) in schools; the construction of sanitary facilities and septic tanks to manage sewage through a nationwide pro-

gram; the ongoing construction of SMART Hospitals and the fact that Guyana remains free of both yellow fever and measles due the high immunisation coverage above 95 per cent in 2018.

On the domestic and sexual violence front, the government pointed to the full implementation and enforcement of the Sexual Offences Act; the establishment of the Sexual Offences Court and no extrajudicial killings since the coalition came into power.

Under the category of partial implementation of recommendations, the government listed matters in relation to Indigenous Peoples, human rights institutions and treaty obligation, non-discrimination and LGBT groups, justice and security sector reforms and recommendation with regards to the affairs of children and women.

The government stated that Guyana is yet to ratify the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention 169 although active engagements continue with the National Toshao’s Council (NTC), the Indigenous Peoples’ Commission and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs.

The report indicated that constitutional rights commissions such as the Rights of Child Commission, Human Rights Commission, Women and Gender Equality Commission, Indigenous Peoples’ Commission and Ethnic Relations Commission (after several years of dormancy), are being funded and remain functional under the current government. However, outstanding efforts are ongoing to make these much more efficient as the report stated: “The Green State Development Strategy Vision 2040 seeks to undertake a comprehensive review on the performance of National Human Rights institutions.

In the case of the Human Rights Commission, the current structure will be revisited. Further changes would be effected through reform of the Constitution. A bill to operationalise a constitutional reform commission was put to a bipartisan committee of parliament in 2017 to pave the way for constitutional reform.”

With regards to justice and security sector reform,

the need for measures to safeguard the rights of prisoners was highlighted.

Meanwhile, although legislative framework for the protection of children and children’s rights has been enhanced with the enactment of the Juvenile Justice Act, it was noted that a Sexual Offenses Registry is still being assembled by a multi-stakeholder committee. Even so, the Gender Affairs Bureau (GAB), the Rights of the Child Commission and the Child Care and Protection Agency (CPA) continue to work to address the needs of children. Recommendations which remain on the government’s agenda as pending include the death penalty with the government indicating its willingness to have a referendum or other consultative processes to ascertain the will of the Guyanese people on this issue.

Those in the category of noted by the government include: prohibition against torture – Guyana has not requested assistance from Group of Friends of the Convention and the removal of defamation as a criminal offence – the Office of the Prime Minister has been working with the Attorney General Chambers towards the decriminalisation of defamation and those amendments before the end of 2020.

Guyana’s first and second UPR reviews took place in May 2010 and January 2015, respectively. The delegation of Guyana will be headed by Permanent Representative of Guyana to the UN Office at Geneva, Ambassador John R. Deep Ford. Meanwhile, the three country representatives serving as rapporteurs for the review of Guyana are: Australia, Chile and Pakistan. Recommendations are likely to be posed to Guyana during its review and the UPR Working Group is scheduled to adopt the recommendations made on January 31, 2020.

The UPR is a unique process which involves a review of the human rights records of all UN Member States. It provides the opportunity for each State to declare what actions they have taken to improve the human rights situations in their countries and to fulfil their human rights obligations.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 25, 2020

Barticans flocked registration for tertiary education programmes

REPRESENTATIVES from the Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE) and Carnegie School of Home Economics were in Bartica on Tuesday, assisting residents with registration for their courses.

Both institutions are in the process of establishing a branch in Bartica to afford residents access to tertiary-level education.

The representatives, who were at the Town Council’s board room, were flocked with young and middle-aged people from the small town who want to pursue higher education.

Town Clerk, Phebe Wallerson, confirmed that there were over 100 residents who came to register for programmes. The lack of tertiary-level education in, or even near, Bartica, has

Residents flocked the Town Council’s boardroom to sign up with IDCE

Brazilian bus company preparing to ply G/town-Lethem route

One of several buses which the Brazilian bus company operates

OFFICIALS of the Brazilian company, AMATUR, say the firm is ready to ply the Georgetown-Lethem route and the company is awaiting approval of licences in order to commence its highly-anticipated service.

“Yes, soon we will work from Georgetown to Brazil.

We are just waiting for some licences from Georgetown,” the company told the Guyana Chronicle via email on Friday.

Last November, officials of the firm travelled the Lethem-Georgetown route on a fact-finding mission and according to reports from the border town, the company has been undertaking interviews for Guyanese to be employed with the firm. The company planned to start its operations along the route that month, however, reports are that necessary paperwork was still being addressed.

President of the Brazil-Guyana Chamber of Commerce, Remídio Monai, confirmed the plans of the company with Brazilian media entity, Radio Folha, last August.

Monai spoke about Guyana’s economic growth, its future, and how the service could benefit the state of Roraima.

“Great entrepreneurs want to make a port in Georgetown and others want to go into agribusiness. Guyana, in a few years, will be exploring more oil than Venezuela and so people will have large purchasing power to invest in Roraima, consume as well. The new fact is that Guyana will be exploring oil and there are companies from various states that are aware of this exploration,” he said.

AMATUR or Amatur Amazônia Turismo Ltda. – provides passenger transportation services to the municipalities of the state of Roraima and also to Manaus using its fleet of 50 vehicles, including its popular double-decker buses. The company said its fleet includes vehicles which can operate on paved and unpaved roads.

Previously, the company operated along the route in partnership with a local company under the INTRASEV brand. AMATUR says that in addition to its plans to launch the service between Lethem and the Coastland, it plans to establish facilities at both locations.

always had an effect on the town as it has, to some extent, hindered development there.

Some residents had told the Guyana Chronicle that the small town is affected by brain drain every year when a new batch of students exit the school system, since they are forced to move on from their hometown to pursue higher education.

But there is a lot of people still there, who want to do better and will make use of the programmes now being offered. It was confirmed that the programmes that will be available, will not be limited to those online. In fact, IDCE plans to put the necessary things in place to facilitate face-to-face classes, and so does Carnegie.

Some of the programmes are certificate programmes in areas such as Industrial Relations and Management, Marketing Management, Early Childhood I and Early Childhood II. Other programmes that will be available are Supervisory Management, Project Management, Social Work, Human Resource Management, Web Application Development, Mobile Appli-

cation Development, and the list is by no means exhausted.

Carnegie will be facilitating practical skill training in catering and other areas. The Bartica correspondent, Kenneth Williams, told Guyana Chronicle that the regional authorities would have already approved the usage of the Bartica Resource Centre for the classes.

He explained too that IDCE will be training teachers, past teachers, and other qualified persons from right within the township, to be course lecturers. There are also courses for persons who did not complete secondary school, or might not have passed the core subjects. IDCE has the Academic Upgrading Programme which covers areas such as Mathematics, English Language, Principles of Business, Principles of Accounts, Chemistry, Physics, and Electronic Document Preparation and Management. After completing the Academic Upgrading Programme, persons can apply to do any course they please, including those at the University of Guyana.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 25, 2020

MoE says zero-tolerance for violence, indiscipline in schools -- Minister Henry visits Linden schools with latest incidence of violence

By Vanessa Braithwaite THE Ministry of Education (MoE) is sending a strong message, that, in no way acts of violence and indiscipline behaviour that have been on the upsurge in schools across the nation, will be tolerated.

Perpetrators of such acts, will face the full penalty, as schools should not be war zones but safe havens for both teachers and learners.

This was reiterated on Friday, during a MoE team visit to Linden schools, where recent acts of violence had occurred; the latest being a stabbing incident on Thursday afternoon, leaving one student critical.

The team was led by Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry, who stressed that school violence has been an ongoing concern in Guyana and, to tackle the situation, more than a single approach was needed, at all levels.

Since it is not acceptable for any child to bully, threaten or attack another, there is need to tackle the issue with a level of urgency. The incident of the stabbing was equally shocking to her as it

system," the minister posited to students and teachers of the Linden Foundation Secondary School (LFSS).

PARENTS, FIRST TEACHERS She urged parents to see themselves as the first teachers and to play their role in disciplining their children since there seems to be a break down in this regard.

"I recognise on many levels that there is a breakdown of discipline in what is expected and required from various stakeholders," Henry said.

With the ministry phasing out corporal punishment and replacing same with positive disciplining techniques to meet global education system standards, there is therefore need for a non-violent approach to discipline and conflict resolution. The welfare department of the MoE will lend the necessary support, through guidance sessions and counselling to students, parents and teachers, in its continuous bid to end violence in schools.

During the session at the LFSS, Guidance and Counselling Officer, Wendy Collins, shared two exercises

dialogue.

"You cannot take it upon yourself to fight and then you are fighting with weapons, you're not supposed to come to school with weapons. If there is an issue, you seek intervention from an adult," Vhypius said as she encouraged the students to not instigate violence since schools should be a safe haven.

Counselling sessions will be provided for the students and teachers who witnessed the incident on Thursday.

WORK OVERTIME

with the students: breathing and self-talk, which she explained will assist them, when anger and resentment are getting the best of them in violent situations.

School's Chief Welfare Officer, Gillian Vhypius told the children that violence is not the way out of a situation and, going forward, students will be engaged in sessions where they will learn other positive ways to resolve conflict.

She urged the students to seek intervention from a teacher, prefect or another trusted adult, where they will be able to express themselves through meaningful

Education Minister, Nicolette Henry, addressing students at the Linden Foundation Secondary School

Minister Nicolette Henry visits the critical LFSS student at the Linden Hospital Complex

Students at the Linden Foundation Secondary School

was for everyone else, the Minister said.

The ministry will continue to roll out efforts on a national scale, to strategise a comprehensive approach to tackle interpersonal violence in schools.

"We have recognised that addressing the problem of violence requires comprehensive reform of the education system and that is exactly what we are doing and it really requires in essence, having all hands on deck. The adage, it takes the village to raise a child, is very practical and remains relevant to the work we are doing here in the education

during fights. At the Linden Technical Institute (LTI), she met with staff members and urged them to be more vigilant since such incidence will be dealt with condignly.

Despite it being a tertiary institution, the REO said there was need for the social programmes to be rolled out at the secondary level to also benefit the tertiary level students, in an effort to curb the indiscipline in those institutions. The team called for more soft skills such as how to love and to exercise tolerance, to be incorporated in the institution’s curriculum.

Regional Education Officer, Rabindra Singh, said the department is ready to work overtime to ensure schools in the region are safe and children are benefitting from the necessary assistance through the welfare department.

He, along with the headteacher of LFSS, Varlene Pitt, expressed disappointment with respect to the incident, especially since the school had been making positive strides, both in academics and extra-curricular activities.

Minister Henry and her team visited two other schools in Linden, where students were also attacked

likely to be sent home while the older one is likely to be detained but police are monitoring the condition of the victim. For charges to be laid, Winter said advice will have to be sought from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Police are taking key evidence from the video footage circulated as they compile the file. The video showed the victim and the younger sister engaged in a physical fight and while the victim was backing the older sister, she took a Ram-

Minister Nicolette Henry and team engaging the staff at the Linden Technical Institute

The team also visited the victims who were stabbed and chopped at the Linden Hospital Complex. The 15year old student is presently warded in the Intensive Care Unit and her condition has been determined to be critical but stable. Following the stabbing incident, she was rushed to the hospital where she underwent emergency surgery. It took doctors five hours to remove the Rambo knife that was lodged in her lower back. Public Relations Officer of the LHC, Toshanna Allicock, related that the organs damaged included her spleen, diaphragm, lung and stomach. Muscles and

tendons were also damaged.

STUDENTS ARRESTED The two sisters, ages 13 and 15, who were involved in the fight, were taken into police custody on Friday morning and were assisting with investigations up to Friday evening. Commander of Region 10, Hugh Winter, related that the children were questioned in the presence of a welfare officer, both of their parents and officer in charge of juvenile cases, as stipulated by the Juvenile Act, which was passed in 2018. Winter said that the younger sister who did not commit the stabbing, is

bo knife from her bag and stabbed the victim in the lower back. The spectators, consisting of mostly students, then began to scatter as the victim, who was collapsing, sought assistance to go to the hospital.

The new Juvenile Justice Act that was passed in the National Assembly in 2018, holds young offenders accountable for criminal offences, but aims to protect them from harm.

The new age of criminal liability is 14 years.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

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Scenes from APNU+AFC Golden Grove rally On Friday evening, the East Coast of Demerara came alive, as supporters

of the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Co-

alition took their campaign to the rural community of Golden Grove.

President David Granger; Attorney General, Basil Williams, and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, greet supporters of the APNU+AFC during the coalition’s rally at Golden Grove

Persons were seen clad in their campaign attire, some dressed even swankier

than others, gyrating to the sounds of drums and local artistes, creating a tidal

wave of yellow and green at the village’s community centre ground.

President of Guyana and Presidential Candidate of the APNU+AFC Coalition, David Granger; First Lady, Sandra Granger, and Prime Ministerial Candidate Khemraj Ramjattan, crank-up crowd of supporters on Friday, during the coalition’s rally at Golden Grove

President David Granger making his case for a second term

Attorney General, Basil Williams, making his case for the coalition to be re-elected at the upcoming elections

Minister of Youth Affairs, Simona Broomes, rejoicing as she enters the Golden Grove Community Centre Ground where thousands of persons turned out to show their support for the incumbent APNU+AFC coalition (Adrian Narine photos)

Local songbird, Vanilla, allows a child to sing a song for President David Granger

Innovative! Persons utilising APNU+AFC paraphernalia, in a unique way, to show their support for the coalition

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, reminds supporters of the coalition of the Government's achievements

No end in sight, as the sea of green and yellow stretches throughout the Golden Grove Community Centre Ground

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday January 25, 2020

$38M healthcare project to benefit Mahaica-Berbice residents

THE Ministry of Public Health has invested over $38M for the construction of a pediatric ward and renovation of the male and female surgical and obstetrics-gynaecology (OBGYN) wards, at the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital, said a news bulletin from the Department of Public Information (DPI).

The new facility is also outfitted with ramps and a lift to accommodate persons with disabilities, DPI said.

“The vision of the government and the Ministry of Public Health is to ensure that every boy, girl, woman and man in this region and all regions live their fullest potential and be among the healthiest in the Caribbean and the Region of the Americas,” said Volda Lawrence, Minister of Public Health, at the opening on Friday.

Minister Lawrence added that fulfilling UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Three remains a priority for

her ministry. SDG Three promotes healthy lives and well-being for all at all ages.

“All of you here today, including our counsellors, are entitled to the highest quality of healthcare services without undue hardship. That is your human and fundamental right. The ministry believes that all our communities from the hinterland to the coastland can enjoy quality healthcare services at all our healthcare facilities,” she added.

According to Regional Health Officer, Dr. Desmond Nicholson, the Regional Health Department is proud to have added 25 more beds, since service delivery was an essential component of healthcare systems and patient density is an indicator of the level of service delivery.

Meanwhile, Region Five REO, Ovid Morrison, expressed his gratitude to the ministry and added that they would be doing feasibility studies for the set-up of a

A glimpse of inside of the new pediatric ward at the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital

The renovated male and female wards

state-of-the-art hospital in the region.

“We want our people to receive the care they need and should have in this region,” he said.

Also present at the opening ceremony was Director of Regional Health Services, Dr. Kay Shako.

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Little Trenyle Kanhai assists Minister of Public Health, the Hon. Volda Lawrence to cut the ribbon to the facility

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 25, 2020

Taxi driver remanded for possession of illegal firearm

ACTING Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus, on Friday, January 24, 2020, remanded a 25-year-old taxi driver to prison for possession of an illegal firearm.

Terrence Primo of Di-

amond appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and denied the charge, when it was read to him.

Particulars of the charge stated that, on January 22, 2020, at Leopold Street, Georgetown, he had one .38

revolver, without being the holder of a firearm licence.

Primo told the court that, “the gun wasn’t on me but it was in the vehicle, I didn’t know it was there”.

Police prosecutor objected to bail being granted to

Primo based on the seriousness of the offence and the penalty attached.

The prosecutor also told the court that, on the day in question, around 13:50 hours, police, acting on information, went to Leopold Street where

they saw motor car PTT 7817 parked and Primo acting in a suspicious way.

The police then approached the car and asked to conduct a search. Nothing was found on Primo, but when the police searched un-

Terrence Primo

der the driver’s seat the said gun was found. When he was told of the allegation he told the police “I am sorry please for another chance”.

Primo was arrested and charged.

Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus refused bail and remanded Primo to prison until January 31, 2020.

Miner charged for possession of marijuana, cocaine

Edgar Lawson

ACTING Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus, on Friday, January 24, 2020, remanded a 27-year-old miner to prison for possession of cocaine and cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

Edgar Lawson of Charlotte Street, Georgetown, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and denied the charges when they were read to him.

Particulars of the first charge stated that, on January 19, 2020, at Charlotte Street, Georgetown, he had in his possession 19 grams of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

The second charge stated that, on the same day, and at the same place, he had, in his possession, 28 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

Police prosecutor Quinn Harris objected to bail being granted to Lawson and told the court that, on the day in question, around 10:20 hours, police after receiving information, went to Lawson’s residence.

Upon their arrival, Lawson was seen dropping a bulky black plastic bag. He jumped the fence and made good his escape. The bag was retrieved and a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems, suspected to be cannabis, were found within. Also in the bag was a whitish substance suspected to be cocaine.

Lawson was later arrested and charged.

Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus, after listening to the prosecutor, remanded Lawson to prison and adjourned the matter until January 31, 2020.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

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Lusignan teams, ECCCC-A, Unity, Ogle CC among latest ECC T10 winners LUSIGNAN teams ‘B’ and ‘East’, Enmore Community Centre Cricket Club (ECCCC)-A, Avish Auto Sales Sports Club (Unity) and Ogle Cricket Club were victors in the latest round of the ECC T10 matches played at the Enmore and Lusignan grounds.

Ogle CC stormed to back-to-back wins when they played against home team, ECCCC-B and Industry Sports Club.

ECCCC-B were held to 40-4, due to Dion Thomas taking 2-6 from two overs. Led by Irfan Ali’s unbeaten 22 the visitors knocked off the target in four overs without losing a wicket.

In the other clash, Industry batted first, but were routed for 56 in 9.3 overs. Ayodha Joseph and Khemraj Jaikarran took 3-8 and 3-10 respectively.

Ogle CC then laboured to their target, but despite losing six wickets, they claimed victory with five balls to spare. Ali made 20.

Aravida Gainda and Mohamed Nazir finished with 3-7 and 2-7 respectively.

ECCCC-A had defeated LBI Sports Club by 12 runs in the opener.

ECCCC-A batted first and reached 88-3 with I. Hassan (22), B. Ramkelawan (21) and V. Ramlakhan (21) all having starts.. LBI SC were then

restricted to 76-7, with R. Dowlatram scoring 19. Satash Jainarine took 3-7 from two overs.

At the Lusignan ground, Lusignan-East SC defeated Lusignan SC-B by 17 runs. Lusignan-East reached 98-7 from their 10 overs, with Hardeo Jailall scoring 48.

Ferron Kadir took 2-20. Lusignan ‘B’ were then restricted to 71-6 after V. Jailall and M. Jailall took two wickets each.

The ‘B’ team bounced back to hand Strathavon SC a 28-run defeat.

Lusignan-B batted first and scored 87-7 from their allotted overs.

Sewchand Budhoo led the visitors with 3-12, but in the middle, their batsmen could not get on top of the bowling and laboured to 49-6 in their 10 overs.

Emran Khan led Lusignan-B with 3-6 from two overs.

Prior to that clash, Strathavon were defeated by Avish Auto Sales.

Strathavon batted first and reached 57-5. P. Chowtie took 2-6 from two overs.

In reply, Avish lost six wickets, but reached the target in the last over.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

Federer pushed to the limit by Millman (REUTERS) - ROGER Federer has never struggled for ways to win matches at the Australian Open, but in beating John Millman to chalk up his 100th on the Melbourne hardcourts, the 38-yearold Swiss found himself in uncharted territory yesterday.

For the first time Federer experienced the Australian Open’s unique system for ending prolonged contests, a so-called ‘super breaker’ - a first to 10-point tiebreak activated when the score reaches six games all in deciding sets.

Tiebreaks are traditionally played to seven and the new rule caused some confusion on its Melbourne debut last year.

Had this third-round match been played at the U.S. Open Millman, rather than Federer, would have progressed.

The inspired Australian led 7-4, then 8-4, in the fifthset breaker only for Federer to dig his heels in and reel off the last six points to claim a 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-4, 4-6, 7-6(8) victory.

“I think it’s important to have different endings at every slam. We got that,” Federer, who became the

first player to clock up 100 match wins at two different slams after achieving the same feat at Wimbledon last year, told reporters after the early-hours-of-the-morning finish.

“Making sure I experience them all before I leave the game.”

Each of the sport’s four Grand Slam tournaments features different ways to finish matches. The French Open has retained long fifth sets with no tiebreaks while last year Federer got painful firsthand experience of Wimbledon’s new system, losing a conventional tiebreak at 12-12 in the deciding set of an epic final against Novak Djokovic.

The U.S. Open, the first to adopt sudden-death finishes, uses tiebreaks at 6-6 in the deciding set.

There have been calls for uniformity and Federer says he likes the now-defunct ‘into infinity’ system that produced the 70-68 fifth set between Nicolas Mahut and John Isner at Wimbledon in 2010, a match lasting more than 11 hours.

But he says he is happy to win, whichever way.

Aqueduct Race 1 Distorted Sky Race 2 Too Fast To Pass Race 3 Gio D’Oro Race 4 Quizzical Cajun Race 5 Theitalianamerican Race 6 Cause For Applause Race 7 Financialstability Race 8 Leitone Race 9 More Diamonds

English Racing Tips Doncaster 08:20 hrs BBold 09:30 hrs Mahlermade 10:05 hrs Manfred 10:40 hrs Floressa 11:15 hrs Dingo Dollar 11:50 hrs Kitty Hall

Lingfield 08:35 hrs Golden Fountain 09:10 hrs Petite Jack 09:45 hrs Dromara Kung 10:20 hrs Power Link 10:55 hrs Night Voyager 11:30 hrs Passing Nod 12:05 hrs Knockabout Queen

Cheltenham 08:40 hrs Monte Cristo 09:15 hrs Imperial Aura 09:50 hrs Count Meribel 10:25 hrs Santini 11:00 hrs King Roland 11:35 hrs Paisley Park

BCQS Guyana Masters Squash Tournament off to 31 exciting...

FROM PAGE

Both athletes settled in comfortably but Pilgrim moved out ahead to earn the first game win 11-5. Beckford came back out determined and despite Pilgrim starting strong again, Beckford worked the court to even up at 10-10 before pushing for the 1210 win.

The third game played out the same as Beckford again took the win 12-10, before a close fourth that could have gone either way saw Pilgrim come out on top. In the 5th and deciding game some fantastic shots were played but Pilgrim prevailed 11-7.

In the lone women’s match of the night a strong Guyana’s Lydia Fraser defeated her fellow countrywoman Tian Edwards in

American Racing Tips

three straight sets 11-2, 11-5 and 11-5.

The final game of the night was also entertaining with Marlon White of Barbados taking on David Fernandes in a spirited match.

A solid Fernandes showed glimpses of brilliance with wellplaced shots and timely drops to take the first game, much to the delight of the crowd. White came back fighting and fitness prevailed as he stayed ahead for a 3-1 victory, finishing 9-11, 11-5, 11-6, 11-7.

Action is ongoing at the Georgetown Club Squash Courts, and play will continue tomorrow at 17:00hrs.

12:10 hrs En Meme Temps

Irish Racing Tips Fairyhouse 08:25 hrs Allaho 09:00 hrs Spare Brakes 09:35 hrs Witness Of Fashion 10:10 hrs Dolcita 10:45 hrs Santa Rossa 11:20 hrs Epson Du Houx 11:55 hrs Highest Benefit

South Africa Racing Tips Turffontein 08:30 hrs Cirillo 09:05 hrs Capitana 09:40 hrs Madame Patrice 10:15 hrs SperoOptima 10:50 hrs Risk Taker 11:25 hrs Pomander

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

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South Africa fight back despite Crawley half-century (REUTERS) - ZAK Crawley scored a maiden Test halfcentury before South Africa fought back to restrict England to 192 for four when bad light stopped play early in the opening day of the fourth Test yesterday.

Crawley suffered a nasty blow to the head but still made 66 as he and Dom Sibley put on 107 for the opening wicket but the home side hit back with four wickets in an extended evening session, including the prized

Zak Crawley of England celebrates his half-century during Day 1 of the 4th Test match against South Africa at Imperial Wanderers Stadium yesterday in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Gallo Images)

scalp of Ben Stokes.

Rain delayed the start of the final Test in the series, which England lead 2-1.

England captain Joe Root, who won the toss and elected to bat, and Ollie Pope will be seeking to extend their 35-run partnership when play resumes today. Root is 25 not out while Pope is unbeaten on 22.

Crawley reached his 50 in just 80 balls as he dominated a mediocre-looking home attack

in the opening 30 overs but was struck on the helmet by a 149 kph bouncer from Anrich Nortje and needed a lengthy break before he was able to continue.

Sibley was the first wicket to fall, in the third over after tea as he steered a rising delivery from debutant Beuran Hendricks down legside and was caught by diving wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock.

Sibley was given out when on 10 but the decision was

overturned on review and he was then caught in the gully when

on

12,

but

Vernon

Philander overstepped the mark and was no-balled. Sibley was eventually out for 44.

Crawley was undone by his own indecision as he played at a Philander delivery and top-edged it to Rassie van der Dussen, who ended up claiming three catches at slip.

Steely Malik steers Pakistan home (ESPNCRICINFO) - It was neither pretty nor particularly engaging, but now isn’t the time for Pakistan to worry about that.

They followed a disciplined bowling performance with a gritty chase spearheaded by the returning Shoaib Malik, after a second-ball duck for Babar Azam threatened to turn a straightforward task somewhat hairy.

It sealed a five-wicket win for Pakistan, snapping a six-match losing streak in the format, and ensuring they hold on to their No.1 T20I ranking for now.

Malik’s unbeaten 45-ball 58 was the only half-centu-

Shoaib Malik punches off the back foot. (AFP)

ry of the game, coming at something of a canter after Bangladesh spread the field through the middle overs, happy to concede singles that weren’t really theirs to give away, given the modesty of the total they were defending.

Debutant Ahsan Ali, and towards the close Iftikhar Ahmed, gave him useful company, but with the asking rate never really allowed to rise above eight, Pakistan weren’t in any imminent danger.

The bowlers were due, thanks to the batsman, to ensure they never needed to get out of second gear.

Shaheen Afridi began

tightly, and Imad Wasim gave little away in the Powerplay after Bangladesh decided to bat on what looked, at the time, a belter of a surface.

Though Tamim Iqbal and Mohammad Naim stuck around for 11 overs, the bowlers kept them on a leash throughout, and their opening partnership only produced 71 runs at 6.45 per over.

Shadab Khan ensured the squeeze was maintained through the middle overs, and Bangladesh never got in a position to explode at the finish.

Iyer guides India to opening win over Sri Lanka (REUTERS) - SHREYAS Iyer guided India to a six-wicket victory over New Zealand in the first Twenty20 international at Eden Park in Auckland yesterday as the tourists showed few signs of fatigue or jet lag.

Iyer scored his second Twenty20 international half-century with 58 not out and finished the game with his third six as India reached 204-4 to chase down New Zealand’s 203-5 with an over to spare.

KL Rahul and captain Virat Kohli put on 99 runs in 50 deliveries for the tourists, who only arrived in New Zealand on Tuesday after completing a 2-1 one-day series victory over Australia on Sunday.

Shreyas Iyer scored his half-century in just 26 balls. (Getty Images)

Rahul was brilliantly caught by Tim Southee at mid-off for 56 before Martin Guptill produced an even more spectacular catch at deep midwicket to dismiss Kohli for 45 to give the hosts a sniff of an upset.

India’s deep batting lineup, however, ensured that they cantered home with a measured run chase full of quality.

New Zealand’s innings included half-centuries for Colin Munro, Ross Taylor and Kane Williamson.

After Munro put on 80 for the opening wicket with Guptill (30), the loss of the left-hander for 59 and Colin de Grandhomme within the space of three deliveries stalled New Zealand’s mo-

mentum.

Williamson (51) and Taylor (54 not out), however, prospered after two fielding errors by Yuzvendra Chahal and the pair scored 61 runs in 28 deliveries to put their side in a strong position at 178-4 with three overs remaining.

Some superb death-bowling by Jasprit Bumrah, who rolled his ankle badly when he stood on the seam of the drop-in pitch, and Mohammed Shami ensured they did not kick on.

The second game of the five-match series is also at Eden Park tomorrow.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

QPCC Junior Hockey Team tour to start today FOR the first time ever, Junior Hockey players in the U-13 and U-16 Boys divisions from the Queen’s Park Cricket Club (QPCC) in Trinidad and Tobago will be visiting Guyana to enjoy friendly competition against the local youths.

The historic visit, which is scheduled for January 25-26, is made possible by their sponsors C3 Centre, BMW Trinidad, Terra Caribbean, 10 Sixty One Consulting and ProSport Caribbean.

QPCC’s Junior Hockey Academy was founded by Rob Wyatt about 5 years ago, with Darren Cowie (former national captain) as the head coach of the programme. From very humble beginnings the QPCC Junior Academy has grown from strength to strength, win-

ning a number of domestic national club titles in Indoor and Outdoor Hockey.

Rob Wyatt, founder and

QPCC Junior Hockey Team

head of the Academy Programme indicated, “It is critical for the development of all our junior players in the region to

gain some exposure to overseas competition. It gives us an opportunity to assess how our players are developing and to

learn from other programmes in the region, so that collectively hockey in the Caribbean region can continue to improve.”

It is hoped that this is the start of more regular fixtures between Trinidad and Guyana, with the Guyanese junior players reciprocating a visit to Trinidad later in the year.

Wyatt added, “This is the first time that Junior Club hockey players in Trinidad have been supported by a number of corporate sponsors. This is a direction that we have to head in to enable us to better facilitate and fund our programmes. We are extremely proud to be representing our sound sponsors who are responsible for the success of our efforts and the development of our academy.”

President of the Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) Philip

Fernandes similarly expressed the huge benefit to the local hockey-playing community that this visit brings.

“For the first time the junior boys of this age group will be exposed to foreign competition which builds relationships and character along with bringing great motivation and excitement to the young players of Guyana,” Fernandes said.

Fernandes complimented coaches Robb Wyatt and Darren Cowie for initiating this tour and said that the clubs of Guyana are all committed to making the effort to have the young Guyanese players pay a return visit to Trinidad to continue the exposure.

Figueira elected UDCA president … GCB to open outdoor facility as part of Region 10 development

THE Upper Demerara Cricket Association (UDCA) elected its new executive body, which will be headed

by Jermaine Figueira as president for the 2020-2022 term.

The Member of Parliament was recently elected unopposed as president of the association when the clubs met this week as part of the AGM. Figueira and his team outlined plans for cricket development in Upper Demerara area, some of which include the construction of proper playing surfaces at the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) and Linden Technical Institute (LTI) grounds.

Figueira said discussions with the East Bank Cricket Board (EBCB) and Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) are in

2020 PCL Regional 4-Day Tournament tail-enders following Smith’s carnage.

Opener Jeremy Solozano

New UDCA president Jermaine Figueira (3rd from left) and the new executive body, following their recent AGM

the pipeline. The respective entities are currently eyeing the resurgence of cricket in the area which has been dormant for about a decade.

Recently GCB secretary

Anand Sanasie has been spearheading projects across Guyana which entail the construction of all-weather outdoor facilities at clubs or in areas which serve as a practice home for the cricket-

ers in that neighbourhood.

With the Shiv Chanderpaul outdoor facility being constructed at Everest and the Alvin Johnson facility in Salem Parika already commissioned last

week, GCB recently announced that the entity would be building an all-weather practice facility in Linden.

The move endorses UDCA president’s feelings as he lauded the Bayroc and Mackenzie Sports Clubs for re-igniting sports in the respective areas, as previous administrators in Region 10 failed to execute any level of cricket-related events or developmental projects.

Also, the new Executive committee of the UDCA intends to hit the ground running with plans to start a sponsored competition as early as next week.

Meanwhile, clubs present at the AGM meeting were Bayroc, MSC, Wisroc, Block 22, Blueberry Hill, Christianburg and Amelia’s Ward.

The full Executive body of the UDCA: Jermaine Figueira - president Lancelot Easton – vice-president Nolan Beekharry - secretary Sharon Williams - Assistant secretary Keith Sullivan - treasurer Wanda Richmond - Assistant treasurer Mr Avery Trim - Marketing Manager Mr Flemroy Lambert - Public Relations Officer Mr Mortimer Denny Chairman of the Competitions Committee. (Clifton Ross)

Smith, Permaul heroics leave Red Force...

FROM BACK PAGE

… Bramble hits 91, Red Force spinner Charles bags 5-87 resisted with 27 while Yannick Ottley chipped in with a lowerorder 22, amdst the Jaguars

rampage.

After bowling out the Jaguars a few overs before lunch, Red

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday January 25, 2020) COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) WI won by 3 wickets (vs AUST) (2) Nyeem Young (WI) Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the recent WI/IRE T20 International series?

(2) Who was declared Man of the Series?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Force openers Keegan Simmons (2) and Jeremy Solozano (7*) took the score to 10-0 at the lunch interval.

Things went downhill when the afternoon session resumed, as fast-bowler Keon Joseph (1-18) uprooted the stumps of Simmons, as Smith commenced his top-order assault.

The Berbician speedster knocked over Red Force skipper Darren Bravo (1) with a beauty which ruffled the left-hander’s stumps.

Smith then sent Jason Mohamed (0) and Joshua DaSilva (1) packing courtesy of two welldirected lbw deliveries to leave them reeling at 20-4 after 7 overs.

Solozano continued to seek a way out of the fire but Smith continued to apply the pressure and soon pinned the opener lbw before bagging his 5th victim when he cleaned up the timber of Yannick Cariah for a secondball duck.

Akeal Hosein (13) got into double figures but fell to the guile of Permaul, who got into the action during the final session. The left-arm spinner ran through the Red Force tail with ease, removing Ottley, Odean Smith and Charles to keep the visitors under 100.

When play resumed, the morning session got off to a quiet start as the overnight pair of Bramble and Bishoo looked

to adapt rather than attack.

After a few overs of tranquillity, drama unfolded when seamer Terrance Hinds who bowled the perfect over to Bramble, broke the edge of his bat a few balls into his over as he was caught by the diving glove-man Joshua DaSilva to get his only wicket.

With the Jaguars tail exposed, Bishoo and the others resisted for a few overs before the final wickets were taken by Charles and company.

Action continues at 09:30hrs today.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

31

BCQS Guyana Masters Squash Tournament off to exciting start SOME of the Caribbean’s former top players rolled back the years and ignited the Georgetown Club Squash Courts with some dazzling display of Squash, when the

BCQS Guyana Masters Squash Tournament served off on Thursday evening.

The first match of the night between Barbados’ Errol Pilgrim and Douglas Beckford of Jamaica

was a close battle that went to five games. The two Over-65 players treated spectators to a real treat of experience.

TURN TO PAGE

28 David Fernandes attempts a shot against Marlon White in the Over-45 category.

Wiggins explodes with another big game for Monroe College SENIOR national basketball player Kevon Wiggins continued where he left off on Tuesday night with another explosive game on Thursday night for the Monroe College Express (Bronx Campus) in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) league.

The 6’ 3” sharpshooter, who scored a college career-best of 39 points earlier this week, buried 30 points in his latest game, but it was in a losing effort (100-79) against the Number 12 nationally ranked Hostos Community College in Region XV (lower New York) play.

In that clash, the 19-yearold shot 9-20 from the field, 2-4 from the three-point line

… says he felt un-guardable in college career best

Kevon Wiggins has been a scoring machine of recent for his college team.

(Monroe Express photo)

and 10-11 from the free throw line, while he also grabbed nine

rebounds.

His two three pointers on

Thursday night were nothing compared to Tuesday night,

when he was on fire from downtown. In a winning battle against Borough of Manhattan Community College, the freshman dropped eight three-pointers to lift his side to a 91-85 win. He shot over 50% from the floor (12 of 23) and 70% from the free throw line (7-10).

The shoot guard/small forward told the Guyana Chronicle that Tuesday’s game was great, “I was feeling hot from the beginning. I felt like nobody could guard me on the court.”

Wiggins’ eight threes helped his team to a season-high 12 shots from beyond the arc, but the Berbician was not just in scoring mode, he also pulled down eight rebounds and made three steals.

“We really needed that win

and I made sure we got it.”

Wiggins has been relatively consistent for his college since the beginning of the 2019-2020 season in November.

Along with his 39 and 30 points, he also had three 20plus games. In the 14 games so far this season, he is averaging, 15.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.3 steals per game and 1.1 assists per game.

Overall, the freshman is shooting an impressive 42 percent from the three-point line, 41.8 percent from the field and 80 percent from the free throw line.

Enmore CCCC to battle Ogle CC Blasters tomorrow in Neville Ramotar Memorial T20 final ENMORE Community Centre Cricket Club (ECCCC) Bravados would look to make it two of two when they play in another final tomorrow at home.

After defeating a formidable Lusignan team recently in the 2019 SPR Enterprise 40over competition, the Bravados are now set to challenge the Ogle Cricket Club Blasters in the Neville Ramotar Memorial T20 final.

The competition commenced in 2019 among 20 teams before it was suspended in December, due to the inclement weather.

According to information

Enmore CCCC skipper Bheemraj Ramkelawan (left) and Ogle CC Blasters captain Davindra Ramtahal with the championship trophy.

from the organisers, the T/20 competition is in its first year and is being played in memory of the late Neville Ramotar, an ardent cricket supporter and businessman from Enmore.

The first team that wins the competition twice will keep the Neville Ramotar lien trophy.

Prior to the clash, there will be an exhibition game between a combined East Coast U-23 team and Lusignan East, who are the third-placed team.

ECCCC’s batting will be led by former senior national all-rounder Amir Khan, national U17- Chaitram Balgobin and the in-form Vishwanauth Ramlakhan. while their quartet of

spinners, Satash Jainarine, Chris Surat, Amir Khan and Yuvraj Dayal will look to restrict the Ogle batting lineup.

Ogle CC Blasters Andrew Samaroo and Khemchandra Dindyal are expected to make significant contribution to their team’s score while Ayodha Joseph and Damuka Ngondo will lead their bowling.

The exhibition game is set for 10:00hrs while the final would be played from 13:30hrs.

There will also be off-field entertainment and bar refreshments on sale.

ECCCC Bravados includes: Bheemraj Ramkelawan (capt.), Yuvraj Dayal, Imran Hassan,

Vishwanauth Ramlakhan, Amir Khan, Chris Surat, Rudolph Singh, Navindra Gobin, Cordel Marz, Kenon Ramascindo, Ranjeet Hiralall, Chaitram Balgobin, Hemraj Garbarran and Satash Jainarine.

Ogle CC Blasters players are: Davindra Ramtahal (capt.), Soopaul Sanichar, Michael Deonarine, Khenchandra Dindyal, Ayodha Joseph, Andrew Samaroo, Orlando Persaud, Khemraj Jaikaran, Damuka Ngondo, Anthony Ifill, Deion Thomas, Shivanand Gossain, Nazir Hussein and Orlando Persaud.

Golden Jaguars to roar against Barbados on March 26, 31 GUYANA are set to play Barbados on March 26 and 31 as they seek to qualify for the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup, a release from the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) stated.

The first match of the tworound qualifier is scheduled for Barbados at 19:00hrs,

while Guyana will be looking for home advantage in the final match scheduled for the National Track and Field Centre, at 20:00hrs.

The senior Men’s National team, more popularly known as the Golden Jaguars, under the guidance of head coach, Brazilian Márcio Máximo, are

currently engaged in preparing for the important Barbados fixture.

The two CARICOM countries will face each other as a result of Guyana finishing second in Group C of the CONCACAF Nations League, League B, behind Jamaica and Barbados who came out on top of League

C, Group A. According to the tournament rules, the winner between Barbados and Guyana will play Trinidad and Tobago during the June FIFA International, where the eventual winners ultimately qualify for the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Canada, Costa Rica,

Curacao, El Salvador, Grenada, Honduras, Jamaica, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Suriname and the United States are the 12 teams who have already booked their place to the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup. FLASHBACK!

Barbados’

Hallam Hope (left) about to challenge his former Bury FC teammate Neil Danns during the 2–2 clash between Guyana and Barbados in the CONCACAF Nations League at the National Track and Field Centre. (Samuel Maughn photo)

32

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, January 25, 2020

Smith, Permaul

heroics leave Red Force trailing … Bramble hits 91, Red Force spinner Charles bags 5-87

By Clifton Ross GUYANA Jaguars pacer Niall Smith’s lethal 5-wicket burst, coupled with spin Veerasammy Permaul’s wizardry, gave the champs added leverage, as the Trinidad & Tobago Red

Force trailed the home team by 278 runs heading into the third day’s play.

The champs piled on a defendable 1st innings 323 all out in 111.3 overs after topscorer, wicketkeeper Anthony Bramble smashed 91 off 77 balls with 14 fours and 3 sixes.

The wicketkeeper did all the hard work before falling inches short of what could have been a whirlwind century.

Opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul anchored the innings with a gruelling 68, all-rounder Chris Barnwell hit 58 while opener Chanderpaul Hemraj chipped in

Guyana Jaguars pacer Niall Smith blew away the Red Force with a lethal 5-wicket spell

with 36 and Devendra Bishoo 27.

Red Force spinner Bryan Charles was the star for the table-leaders, bagging 5-87 as skipper Darren Bravo chipped in with 2 scalps to emerge as the premier wickettakers.

When bails were lifted on

the second day, Guyana were well poised on 53-0 with both openers Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Chandrapaul Hemraj firmly placed on 29 and 23 respectively.

Prior to stumps, Red Force were mowed down for a first-innings 98 runs in 41 overs after Smith

rocked the top-order with his opening spell, which saw him slice through the Red Force batting attack.

The right-hand pacer snatched a measly 5-12 from 8 overs while Permaul spun his way to 4-29, cleaning up the TURN TO PAGE

30

Golden Jaguars to roar against Barbados 31 on March 26, 31 PAGE

QPCC Junior Hockey Team tour to start today 30 PAGE

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 25, 2020