Guyana Chronicle E-paper 10-17-2020

SATURDAY 17th October, 2020

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UPLIFTING LIVES

No.106155

–– 350 land titles distributed in ‘Dream Realised Housing Drive’SEE –– 2,600 more in the next few days; 25, 000 homes to be built PA03GE

GNNL battles burden of irresponsible journalism, mismanagement under 05 Coalition Gov’t PAGE

CGX’s exploration licences, plan for deep-water harbour being reviewed 19 PAGE

President Dr. Irfaan Ali hands over title and transport to one of the first five persons at the ‘Dream Realised Housing Drive 2020’ held at the Providence National stadium, East Bank Demerara. Housing Ministers Collin Croal and Susan Rodrigues look on (Adrian Narine photo)

Min. Rodrigues: Housing in Guyana must be envy of Caribbean

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

Janet Jagan remembered for her humility, selfless service to Guyana

By Tamica Garnett PRESIDENT Irfaan Ali on Friday remembered the late former President, Ms. Janet Jagan for her ability to be a unifying force, her selflessness, humility and her love for the arts and culture when he delivered the feature address at an event held at Freedom House in celebration of her 100th Birth Anniversary.

Described as a legend and a visionary, former President Janet Jagan was hailed for her contributions to fighting for women's rights, worker rights and democracy.

“She came at a time when it must not have been easy for women, and had to impose herself in a society different from the one she came from.

She was a dynamic visionary, in that although she was not from the same cultural makeup, Guyanese put their trust in her. She was a unifying force,” President Ali related as he spoke to the small gathering of mostly women assembled for the event.

Born Janet Rosenberg in Chicago, Illinois on October

20, 1920, her life’s journey would bring her to the Land of Many Waters after she met and subsequently married former President, Dr Cheddi Jagan.

The pair would move to Guyana in December 1942, and she would become most well known for her dedication to her adopted nation, where she would live out the remainder of her life. She died on March 28, 2009, and her body was cremated on March 31 here in Guyana.

Immediately upon coming to Guyana, Mrs. Jagan entered a life of activism, with emphasis on worker rights and women’s rights, and would subsequently renounce her US At Friday’s Night of Reflections in memory of the late Mrs. Janet Jagan are, from left: Mrs. Indra Chanderpal; Mr. Seepaul Narine; President Dr. Irfaan Ali; and Dr. Vindyha Persaud (Elvin Croker photo)

citizenship in the 1960s. President Ali said Mrs. Jagan’s decision to leave her homeland was an act of selflessness.

“She had a choice to go back, but she saw something that inspired her, and in a selfless manner, she left everything behind and committed herself. She gave everything up, and put all her efforts into the struggle for independence; the struggle for democracy, struggle against dictatorship,” the president said.

Mrs. Jagan served as President from December 1997 to August 1999, becoming the country’s first female Headof-State. She was also the country’s first female Prime Minister, having served in that capacity from March 1997 to December 1999.

With 55 years of representing the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) in Parliament, Mrs. Jagan has the distinction of being the longest-serving Member of the National Assembly.

In 1993, she was awarded the country’s highest national award, the Order of Excellence, while in 1998, she was awarded the UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Gold Medal for her work with Women's Rights.

MUST NOT BE ALLOWED Noting that there are some political elements who often try to damage and disparage Mrs. Jagan’s selfless service to Guyana, President Ali passionately affirmed that this must not be allowed.

“You cannot get too busy, to the extent that you leave lies unanswered. Comrade Janet's selflessness led her to sacrificing everything for this new country; that level of selflessness is undoubtedly the characteristics we can all take and adopt as we confront our own challenges,” the president underscored.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

Uplifting lives

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–– 350 land titles distributed in ‘Dream Realised Housing Drive’ –– 2,600 more in the next few days; 25, 000 homes to be built

By Rabindra Rooplall GOVERNMENT will, in another few days, distribute more than 2,600 land titles countrywide, as part of a wider goal to build 25,000 homes and create 50,000 house lots within the next five years.

This was revealed by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, during his feature address at the Housing and Water Ministry’s “Dream Realised Housing Drive 2020”, at Providence National Stadium on Friday.

The President handed out five of the 350 titles and transports processed by the Housing Ministry. The two-day housing drive continues today from 09:00hrs –15:00hrs.

Representatives from Republic Bank, Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry, New Building Society and Bank of Baroda will be present as well as Internet and insurance companies.

“My greatest visions is to see us all united, for us to see each other as Guyanese, for us to love each other as Guyanese, for us to protect each other as Guyanese, that is my greatest dream for Guyana, in achieving all of this one may ask where is the capital coming from,” he said.

Government is seeking to raise US$250m ($50b) to support its housing development plans and is seeking Expressions of Interest (EoIs).

“The response has been nothing but overwhelming.

We have already engaged at the bilateral, multilateral and regional levels, many agencies.

Every single Head of State I spoke to so far has outlined housing as a top priority and asked that financing of the housing programme be taken into consideration of their development plan,” the President said.

Guyana is poised to quadruple its GDP in the upcoming years as proceeds pour in from the oil and gas sector.

The Government intends to use some of this money to transform the infrastructural landscape of Guyana by undertaking major urban development projects.

According to the President, resources will also be accessed from the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD).

Ali, a former housing minister, said his vision is to create opportunities for home ownership that brings communities together and create an environment for unity, prosperity and progress.

Housing, he said is not only about the development of house lots but also about empowerment of families and provision of opportunities for them to grow and prosper.

“Today, we are talking about making dreams a reality and dreams without action remain a dream. You can have the greatest dream but if you don’t take action on that dream it remains a dream,” he said.

UPLIFTING LIVES The Government’s vision is to deliver 50,000 house lots to Guyanese. It will uplift the lives of all citizens, the President told the Providence Stadium on Friday.

Government is looking at sustainable housing programmes that will create jobs, greater demands for services, areas for growth and avenues for affordable housing.

Underscoring the importance of Government embracing programmes with the private sector, Dr. Ali said this creates an enabling environment with the right set of incentives that will address the issue of affordability.

He emphasised that there is nothing more empowering

than owning a home and said everyone wants to turn his/ her own keys; especially the youths and Government will create a network of infrastructure that will link growth and development.

The President said partnerships will be created with the understanding that companies have a social responsibility since any partnership with Government will not be driven exclusively on the profit margin.

“When we give incentives, we expect that the people must get the translated benefits of those incentives and we will ensure that they get the benefits and we want to partner with the private sector,” the President said.

He said Government will bring together the hardware stores, banks, builders, contractors, developers and other stakeholders to achieve an economy of scale.

“If we give the banks a ready market of 25,000 homes,

Janet Jagan remembered ... people who believed in a cause ensuring that the democracy that we won in 1992 would not be taken from us. Comrade Janet would have been proud of them,” Dr. Ali said.

Among those also making remarks at the event was Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindyha Persaud; General Secretary of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU), Mr. Seepaul Narine; and Chairperson of the Women

anese migrant population in Venezuela who are resettling in Guyana and they are a new target group being looked at.

SUBSIDISED HOUSING Meanwhile, the President said the focus for the hinterland will be subsidised housing and this is not about creating homes but is linked to job creation, better services, power, water and community life.

“By January next year we are hoping to have at least 30,000 home solar units to go to the hinterland communities,” he said.

Additionally, the new Demerara Harbour Bridge that will be built will reduce travelling time by 75 per cent among other benefits.

“You will see a marked bridging of the gap in land value because there will be greater connectivity, and that would lead to the creation of new housing developments,” he said.

lives. Not only many lives were touched, but history was fashioned by Janet Jagan’s contributions to Guyana,” Dr. Persaud highlighted as she opened her address.

to step out from behind the shadow and be heard. As we celebrate 100 years of the life of a remarkable women honour her further by teaching your daughters to never limit themselves.

We need to change the story of the women of this country.

I would like to see more Janet Jagans,” Dr. Persaud said.

Also focusing on Janet’s work on women rights, Chanderpaul described the former President as courageous, bold and determined, and also spoke of her love for the arts.

Narine fittingly spoke of Jagan’s dedication to the labour movement and the rights of the

working class.

“Many of us are aware of Janet Jagan as a politician but I must reflect on some of her support to the trade union movement. She displayed a bias to the working class throughout her life. Her life was enmeshed with that of the working class, she was active in trade union and took part in many battles,” Narine shared.

He reminded of the pivotal role Jagan played in bringing to the fore many legislation that spoke to the improvement of the life of the working class.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali interacts with one of the many persons at the ‘Dream Realised Housing Drive 2020’ event

FROM PAGE

Mrs. Jagan’s commitment and selflessness, President Ali said, came from her principle of believing in a cause, and being willing to stand up for what is right, a trait he said that was exemplified by many earlier this year as the country went to the polls.

“What was the cause or various issues that she believed in? Democracy, freedom, and independence. Today, we see how believing in a cause is important. We saw many young

it is reducing their marketing costs to go after customers and reducing many other costs even the operational costs become less; although you are processing more your operational cost will go down; these are the type of intangible benefits of a comprehensive housing system,” President Ali said.

He said the diaspora will be engaged, not only in home ownership but to become a part of the programme and be associated with housing development and in providing financial resources.

“There is great potential in creating a diaspora fund that can be utilised in a sector like the housing sector and this is also under consideration,” he said.

Adding that this will create new access for capital, the President said housing is not only about house lot and homes as a comprehensive set of policies has to be developed.

There is also a large Guy-

This, he said will be linked to the four-lane from the bridge all the way to Parika opening up thousands of acres of lands.

“The opening up of these lands and the building of infrastructure would bring you into Georgetown within the timeframe of 25-30 minutes,” he said.

Government, he said will also launch a new area of development that will benefit from special incentives and tax regime to motivate investors in manufacturing and industrial development.

“We are looking at the zoning of activities. We have to learn from experiences, we can’t have harmful waste and harmful chemicals stored in a concentrated area so we would have to look at where will be the new zones, and these type of activities will drive the new economic revolution that will create sustainable housing and sustainable jobs,” the President said.

West Bank of Demerara will see massive housing development. Meanwhile, the Ogle, East Coast Demerara to Timehri, East Bank Demerara road bypass will commence shortly. Different phases, he said will lead to different destinations where new areas of growth will be available.

Government, Dr. Ali said will work to build housing for young professional -- nurses, Joint Services ranks, clerical workers and teachers – and the religious community will play a part in the housing development.

“We will work with the religious stakeholders because they have an important role in creating homes and they have to be part of the overall vision,” Dr. Ali said.

Farmers, he said will also benefit from housing and grants to develop their farmlands.

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and Gender Equality Commission, Ms. Indra Chanderpal.

They all spoke of personal encounters they would have had with the late President, each sharing how she would have touched them in a lasting way.

Dr. Persaud, during her address, focused on what a pleasant person Mrs. Jagan was.

“When people can sit 100 years after your birth and reflect on you, it must mean you touched many lives, and made a tangible impact in their

MUST NEVER FALL TO THE WAYSIDE Emphasising the many contributions Janet made as trailblazer for women rights, Dr. Persaud charged that Janet’s dream of seeing women continuously elevating themselves must never fall to the wayside “She believed way back then that women should have a voice. She empowered women

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, October 17, 2020

Macron calls Paris beheading ‘Islamist terrorist attack’ French President Emmanuel Macron has called the beheading of a teacher in a north-western suburb of Paris an “Islamist terrorist attack”.

The victim is said to have shown controversial cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad to his pupils. The attacker was shot dead by police.

Mr Macron said the as yet unnamed teacher was murdered because he “taught free-

dom of expression”.

“They won’t win... We will act,” the president said from the scene.

The attack occurred at about 17:00 local time (15:00 GMT) near a school. Anti-terror prosecutors are investigating.

The knife-wielding attacker was shot as officers tried to arrest him in the aftermath of the attack. Police have not released any personal details

Police at the scene in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine (BBC photo)

French President, Emmanuel Macron (BBC photo)

Police at the scene in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine (BBC photo)

about him.

A trial is currently under way in Paris over a 2015 Islamist assault on the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, which was targeted for publishing the cartoons.

Three weeks ago, a man attacked and wounded two people outside the magazine’s former offices.

A man wielding a large knife attacked the teacher in a street in an area called Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, cutting off his head. A police source said that witnesses had heard the attacker shout “Allahu Akbar”, or “God is Greatest”, the Reuters news agency reported.

The attacker then ran off, but local police alerted by the public were quickly at the scene.

The officers confronted the man in the nearby district of Éragny.

When they shouted at him to give himself up, he is said to have threatened them. The officers shot him and he died a short time later.

The scene is now sealed off, as the investigation continues.

Four people, including a

minor, have been arrested, a judicial source told AFP early on Saturday. Those arrested were related to the attacker, the source said.

In a tweet (in French), police urged members of the public to avoid the area.

French broadcaster BFMTV reported that the suspected attacker was an 18-yearold man who was born in Moscow.

According to Le Monde newspaper, the victim, a teacher of history and geography, had been talking in class about freedom of expression in connection with the Muhammad cartoons, which caused uproar among some Muslims when Charlie Hebdo published them.

The teacher had reportedly advised Muslim students to leave the room if they thought they might be offended.

Earlier this month, some Muslim parents complained to the school about the teacher’s decision to use one or more of the cartoons as part of a discussion about the Charlie Hebdo trial, French media report.

“According to my son, he was super nice, super friendly, super kind,” a parent from the school, Nordine Chaouadi, told the AFP news agency.

Reacting to Friday’s attack, Charlie Hebdo tweeted: “Intolerance just reached a new threshold and seems to stop at nothing to impose terror in our country.”

If this motive for the killing is substantiated, it will be deeply shocking to the French, says the BBC’s Hugh Schofield in Paris. They will see it as not just a brutal attack, he says, but a brutal attack on a teacher for carrying out his duty to explain.

France has seen a wave of Islamist violence since the 2015 attack on Charlie Hebdo that left 12 people dead, including famous cartoonists. The murder bore the hallmarks of “an Islamist terrorist attack,” Mr Macron told reporters at the scene of the attack.

“One of our fellow citizens was assassinated today because he was teaching, he was teaching pupils about freedom of expression,” he said.

In the National Assembly, France’s parliament, deputies stood up to honour the teacher killed on Friday and condemn the “atrocious terror attack”.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, travelling to Morocco, is returning urgently to Paris.

Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer tweeted that the killing of a teacher was an attack on the French Republic.

He said his thoughts were with the victim and his family, and unity and firmness were the only responses to “Islamist terrorism”. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, October 17, 2020

GNNL battles burden of irresponsible journalism, mismanagement under Coalition Gov’t ― faces over $6 billion in lawsuits

THE Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL) is facing serious financial and professional challenges, having to deal with over $6 billion in lawsuits filed against the newspapers for matters relating to publications under the APNU-AFC Government.

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, said that the Board of Directors reported to him that as of August 2, 2020, the GNNL was in a financial deficit with a no operating cash flow to meet immediate needs.

“These lawsuits all relate to irresponsible reporting, reckless and careless directions from the former board members, general managers and editor-in-chief. Not only are we faced with these lawsuits, we are also faced with the additional costs of legal representation as these matters go to court,” Minister McCoy noted.

The minister in charge of information said that it is clear that the former general managers of the company,

the likes of which include Ganesh Mahipaul and Sherod Duncan, have endangered not only the viability of the company but also the livelihood of its employees.

Former GNNL EIC, Nigel Williams

From August to date, McCoy said the new management team and Board of Directors have started to put cost-recovery measures in place that will hopefully soon realise self-sufficiency.

The editorial team, he said is also being evaluated and changed so as to restore professionalism and pride in

the GNNL and its service to the people of Guyana.

Justice Sandil Kissoon, on Friday, awarded $27.5M to the owner of SleepIn Group of Hotels, Clifton Bacchus, for a defamation of character lawsuit filed against former Guyana Chronicle Editor-in-Chief (EiC), Nigel Williams and GNNL. Additionally, Pasha Global Inc. and Yokohama Trading Guyana Inc., were each awarded $12.5M in damages.

Bacchus, along with Pasha Global Inc. and Yokohama Trading Guyana Inc. took GNNL– the printers of the Guyana Chronicle – and Williams to court following the publication of an offensive article on August 15, 2017.

The front-page headline of the article read, “Tracking the money… Sleepin boss, associate snared in money laundering probe… SOCU tells Gaming Authority investigation on since 2016.”

Further, on pages two and eight of the August 17, 2017 edition of the newspaper, Williams published or

caused to be published an article under the heading, “The Dutch Connection… Sleepin Casino Surinamese partner was jailed for money laundering… Bacchus quizzed about permission to import slot machines.”

The former EIC and by extension the newspaper, had tried to create a nexus

between Bacchus and the Surinamese businessman’s legal troubles.

Meanwhile, a memo seen by this publication revealed that the former EIC, Nigel Williams, who walked off the job after a change in administration, received millions in a payout from the company after a retroactive gratuity

Former acting General Manager, Ganesh Mahipaul

was signed off and approved by the then subject Minister, Moses Nagamootoo.

Also an audit into Sherod Duncan’s stewardship of GNNL has found that in excess of $5 million was spent on 21 transactions which did not adhere to the tender board rules and procedures which govern the corporation.

Additionally, cash advances given to Duncan for overseas and local travel are still to be cleared as he has not provided the necessary documents to support expenditure while the company’s personnel policy and procedures manual were ignored during the recruitment, termination and dismissal of several employees.

Duncan was also accused of making payments outside of established approval processes.

Payments were also made to persons whose name did not appear on the payment invoice for which no receipts were provided, nor was the work certified satisfactorily done.

Mexican ex-minister charged with drug trafficking A former Mexican defence minister has been charged with drug trafficking and laundering money while holding public office, US prosecutors say.

Gen Salvador Cienfuegos Zepeda was arrested at Los Angeles airport on Thursday.

He is due to make a court appearance on four charges in California on Friday.

His charges include conspiracy to distribute heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana to the US. Prosecutors accuse Mr Cienfuegos, a retired general known as “The Godfather”, of helping the H-2 Cartel - “an extremely violent Mexican drug-trafficking organisation” - smuggle drugs into the US. “In exchange for bribe payments, he permitted the H-2 Cartel - a cartel that routinely engaged in wholesale violence, including torture and murder - to operate with impunity in Mexico,” prosecutors alleged in a court document released on Friday.

Prosecutors say they have evidence of communications between Gen Cienfuegos and a senior leader of the H-2 Cartel.

They have requested that Mr Cienfuegos be held in detention until his trial, arguing the general poses “a significant risk of flight”.

Should he be convicted, the former defence minister could face a jail term of ten years or more, prosecutors say.

Earlier, the Mexican government confirmed to the BBC that Gen Cienfuegos was arrested on a US Drug Enforcement Administration

President López Obrador has confirmed that Gen Cienfuegos is accused of drug trafficking (BBC photo)

(DEA) warrant.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said the arrest “serves to illustrate that the main problem in Mexico is corruption”.

President López Obrador, who was elected on an anti-corruption platform in 2018, has accused his predecessors of running a “narco-government” that allowed corruption.

He is seeking to lift the immunity of former leaders from prosecution.

Gen Cienfuegos, 72, served as minister from 2012 to 2018, under President Enrique Peña Nieto.

Gen Cienfuego was Mexico’s defence minister from 2012 to 2018 (BBC photo)

His role as the most senior member of the armed forces meant he played a key role in Mexico’s war on drugs.

But there were accusations of complicity between the state and the country’s powerful drug cartels throughout Mr Peña Nieto’s presidency, reports BBC Mexico correspondent Will Grant.

Earlier this year, one of the former president’s closest advisers was extradited to Mexico from Spain on corrup-

tion charges.

Emilio Lozoya, the former boss of Mexican state oil company Pemex, is accused of taking $10m (£8m) in bribes from a Brazilian construction firm that has admitted paying off Latin American politicians. He has denied any wrongdoing.

Mr Peña Nieto has not been implicated.

Gen Cienfuegos is not the first former Mexican minister to have been arrested in the US.

Last December, former Security Minister Genaro García Luna was charged with taking bribes from a drugs cartel.

Mr García Luna, who was Mexico’s top security chief from 2006 to 2012, is currently on trial in New York, accused of allowing the Sinaloa cartel of “El Chapo” Guzman to operate in Mexico in exchange for millions of dollars.

He denies all the charges against him. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

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Facilitating a diversified sugar industry

THERE is a great outcry because NICIL has been flooding the Success GuySuCo lands on which squatters have opportunistically taken up residence, despite knowing that the lands were privately owned and that squatting is prohibited by law.

The squatters have cited no jobs and single mothers with many children and that Guyana has vast expanses of land, as justification why they should not be removed.

From the look of things, taking up abode more inland would have been far less problematic, if their contention is that Guyana has great expanses of land.

Our indigenous people have been sustaining themselves for centuries off the land, as have our farmers in other remote regions of Guyana -- Black Bush Polder, for instance; but they are inhibiting government’s plans for the resuscitation of the sugar industry. What gives them that right to inhibit thousands of families from benefitting from government’s turnaround plans for sugar?

They could farm and sustain themselves if they had gone inland, and even market their produce, but they have been politically encouraged to usurp the lands earmarked for progressive endeavours that would benefit thousands of sugar workers.

Which government would put its developmental plans indefinitely on hold for a few dozens of disgruntled people who con-

sciously chose to heed the encouragement of political protagonists of the current government and peremptorily engage in illegal property acquisition?

During colonial times factories were built in this country to process the sugar, from which many other industries evolved.

However, in the approximate 400 hundred years of sugar production, this country had been confined to producing raw sugar, which has considerably constrained Guyana’s sugar earnings.

The PPP/C administrations had always envisaged an independent Guyana as exploring diversification options for the sugar industry, but this did not fructify until the newly installed PPP/C government began planning, since 1992, to make the industry a complex, instead of merely a producer of raw sugar so that the earnings and benefits of sugar workers could increase in tandem with the increased market-share and profitability of value-added sugar products.

The news and trends in the global marketplace had prepared the Jagdeo-led government of earlier years to lose the European preferential market, although they did not anticipate that it would happen so quickly, which sent the sector reeling from the shockwaves. However, the then government had already been strategising on ways to modernise the industry, which culminated in, among other initiatives, the

new factory at Skeldon and the state-ofthe-art packaging facility at Enmore.

Itemising accrual benefits that would redound to the nation from the PPP/C’s turnaround plan for sugar, one needs to be cognisant of electricity being generated at the Skeldon factory, with anticipated projects including other specialities, such as refined sugar. There was also the hope and expectation that other factories will also be equipped to generate electricity, and also to produce ethanol and paper to enhance income-generation and consequently boost the quality of life of sugar workers.

The Enmore sugar-packaging facility that was first commissioned in May 2011 provided assurance that the sugar industry was changing with the times, meeting the challenges and improving with the evolving dynamics and emerging challenges, and that government had made plans to ensure – unlike many other sugar industries in the Caribbean and farther afield-- that the Guyana sugar industry survives long in the much distant future, that it will still be here and making a great contribution to our country for generations to come.

Sugar workers have played a great role in keeping the industry going, even in the face of great odds and constraints.

The spurious contentions of political antagonists that the Irfaan Ali government is only strategising to turn the industry

around because the affected communities are enclaves of PPP supporters should go to the various sugar-producing communities and listen to the cries of the sugar workers and their families who have lost jobs and their sustainable lifestyles because of sugar estate closures, and they will then realise that hundreds of coalition supporters are also suffering because of sugar estate closures.

But this is a moot plank on which to base their insistence that sugar is not viable to sustain, because many factors have be taken into consideration, and a major one is that it is Guyanese lives that have been jeopardised and Guyanese children who are suffering because of the previous government’s decision to demolish the industry. The current government is struggling valiantly to ensure that sugar production once again picks up steam and realise the dreams and hopes of future generations of Guyanese The restoration of the Enmore packaging plant is a major facilitating mechanism structured into the blueprint of turning GuySuCo and the sugar industry into an enduring, profitable complex that will, in accrual stages, benefit the entire nation in a multiplicity of ways, similar to the time when the punitive sugar levy sustained the bauxite industry and the public service and joint services sectors.

Khan’s proposal to the government Dear Editor, IT is admirable that under this current result-oriented regime, we are seeing a really well-deserved surge of developing policies that are reaping a lot of rewards.

While I applaud these initiatives, one of my main concerns is the possibility of a sudden increase in government approved wages, especially in the middle of the year when contracts have already been awarded to various categories of workers, particularly those in the private sector.

Do not get me wrong, I agree that it is vital that we have some kind of wage increase for the lowest-paid employees in the country, but it is also important to bear in mind those employers who have tendered for security services and labour, such as cleaning services, maintenance, etc., and who, with the sudden increase, can very well assert the fact that the cost of providing the service exceeds the rate charged for its provision. Those in authority must take into consideration the timeline as to when this new rate would apply as contracts will have already been signed. They must also recognise that tendered contracts may go beyond that date on the proposed date of commencement.

From the employer perspective, this entails additional expenses on our end without any increase in revenue. My aim of this missive is to highlight the fact that something needs to be done to cushion employers so that we do not see a repeat of what happened when

the former Labor Minister, Dr. Nanda Gopaul, boosted government approved wages in the middle of the year that caused much confusion. He did this when most of the contracts had already been signed until the end of the year and some, during the course of the following year. On this basis, I held press conferences and sent letters to the media to appeal to the government to change the date of implementation of the government approved wage or to raise our rates to the percentage of workers’ increased government wages. Since the government did not listen to my appeal, my company was forced by law to submit the notice of termination required and to withdraw our services. Because of our honour and principles, we spent three months trying to negotiate. We ended up losing a large amount and I then later gave the requisite notice and withdrew our services. I did this because it is part of my principle whereby I cannot continue to pay staff below accepted legal wages or exploit the VAT or steal the NIS and PAYE taxes.

As far as the other security services are concerned, they tendered below cost, as usual. However, to compensate for their deficit, they always rob, and even to this day, they are still stealing NIS, workers’ PAYE contributions, and VAT. Many government tenderers, in an effort to survive, would bid below cost, and at times when the government approved wage begins to increase, they steal all of these items in order to stay afloat. This may come as a surprise, but yes, there are

many security contractors stealing VAT or part thereof; as there is no mechanism to fully investigate it. The firms that are guilty of this did not renounce the contracts, and others, after a long time, were brought before the courts. These businesses do not pay annual leave or requisite overtime to their staff. One company, which had not paid NIS or PAYE taxes for decades, declared bankruptcy and subsequently changed its name after it had been blacklisted by the NIS and the GRA. Having changed their name, they started reapplying for these compliances, but they still commit the same crimes, get compliance by clandestine methods, and win some of the big regional and other government contracts in Guyana. There are other companies who win large regional contracts by tendering below costs and manipulating NIS, VAT, and PAYE taxes. The GRA and NIS can easily source the number of workers that are working and the amount of VAT and NIS that should have been paid for the number of workers per area and know almost immediately what they are entitled to. My understanding is that, because of workforce shortages, neither the GRA nor the NIS can do this. Therefore, they should set up a program that would easily discard the information if the VAT and the NIS were not valid and accurate as they should be by contract. I believe this can be achieved easily. I have been offering my services to the NIS for decades now, free of charge, to help give ideas about how to catch those dishonest employers who steal VAT, NIS, and PAYE taxes. Many

of whom are considered to not pay corporate taxes or even to declare annual taxes.

Another point to consider is that historically, as wages are increased, there is, to say the least, a rise in water, power, gas, and food. This is understandable because employers need to raise the price they charge for products and services in order to maintain corporate profits. Another frequent concern is that increased costs can reduce job opportunities for government approved wage workers by forcing employers to recruit fewer workers or even to lay off employees. This could be detrimental to the unemployment rate in our country.

With all of the aforementioned in mind, I would respectfully propose that the government offer some kind of measure to cushion contracted employers so that it does not become burdensome on them. Without this cushion, we may be in for some confusion, pandemonium, and havoc.

Additionally, I have always been of the view that giving more dollars with price rises is not the most sensible or wise thing at the moment. Money needs strength! Rental, power, fuel, food costs, etc. must first decrease.

I mean, it is prudent that if you keep salaries as they are while at the same time lowering the cost of living, it will be more of a progressive and revolutionary approach.

Sincerely, Hajji Dr. Roshan Kha,n Snr

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

‘We want you to own your homes too’ –– but follow the law, President tells Success squatters

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali said while his Government is willing and ready to assist the residents of the Success squatter settlement, there must be a sustainable approach in developing housing areas.

President Ali made this statement, while addressing the gathering at the Ministry of Housing and Water’s Title distribution exercise, held on Friday at the National Stadium in Providence.

“I said to my brothers and sisters in Suc-

cess, who we have reached out to on many occasions, it is not that we want you to be dislodged in the area. We want you to own your homes too. That is why we sent the housing team so many times to see you, but there is a right way of doing things and the wrong way. In Guyana, we have to get accustomed to doing things the right way. Otherwise we’ll be developing communities that are not sustainable.”

The Head of State was at the time pointing

to the multitude of benefits which come with regularised housing settlements, including creating homes, strengthening families, bringing communities together and uplifting the country in unity, prosperity and progress.

“If you invest $5 million in a squatter settlement, there is no value because it cannot be used as collateral. If you invested in a structured scheme, there is value. You can capitalise, sometimes for more than $5 million, $7 million, $8 million,” President Ali added.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali On this note, he once again urged those taking up residence illegally to see the merits of doing things the right way.

“We want to help you. We’re going to move as fast as possible on this programme, but I am appealing to Guyanese, let us do it the right way,” the President added.

Navratri (Sharad Navratri) Part I Dear editor, NAAVRATRI is the grand Hindu festival inherited from our ancestors who arrived from different parts of India over 150 years ago, and it is celebrated for nine days (technically, nine nights).

There are four Navratri celebrated four times per year: Vasanta Navratri, celebrated in the month of Chaitra (March-April); Ashad Navratri, during the month of Ashada (June-July); Sharad Navratri,during the month of Ashwin (September-October); Pausha/Magha Navratri, in Paush month (December-January (eight days only). In Guyana and other parts of the Caribbean, and in Suriname also, only Vasanta and Sharad Navratri are mostly observed. For Vasanta Navratri, in Guyana, Hindus are accustomed to paying homage to the deity, Mata Durga, on the first three nights for strength, courage and protection. Mata Lakshmi is worshipped the next three nights for health, wealth and prosperity.

The last three nights are dedicated to Mata Sarasvati, paying obeisance for education, fine arts in music and dancing and literature. For Sharad Navratri, the festival celebrates the nine incarnations of Goddess Durga (Fort), and each night is dedicated to a specific form of the Goddess. It is referred to also as “Durga Puja”, because many devotees would conduct this Puja (religious ceremony) specifically during this auspicious period.

Her nine manifestations are: Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandmata, Katyayani, Kalyatri, Mahagouri and Siddidhatri. Hinduism is a “way of life”, comprising of various philosophes. There are three sub-parts

of Hinduism, referred to as Vaishnavism (Lord Vishnu), Shaivism (Lord Shiva) and Shaktism. Goddess Durga is the primary deity in Shaktism; she is another form of Goddess Parvati, and came to be known as Durga after she destroyed the demon, Mahishasura. Navratri is one of the most important Hindu Festivals observed in the Hindu calendar, and it falls in the month of Ashwin. This year, the festival is being observed from October 17 – 25.

The nine (Nav)-day/night(Ratri) is dedicated to the Universal Mother, Mata Durga, the Goddess of a feminine form of energy, strength, wisdom, prosperity, protection and the destroyer of demonic powers. Upon the culmination of the nineday period, on the tenth day, Dussehra is celebrated, which is also believed to be the day that Lord Rama defeated the demon, King Ravana of Lanka in a battle between the forces of good and evil, with Vijay Dashami (the destruction of the demon King Mahishasura) and Durga visarjan (immersion of the idol). Included in the custom is the Kanya Puja, which is done on Maha Ashtma (the eight night of the festival). On this night, nine little girls, between the ages of 2 to 9 would sit and represent the nine manifestations of Durga Ma. Devotees would honour them with gifts, and also feed them. During this nine days/nights period, devotees would fast, abstain from meat eating and alcohol consumption. The interior and exterior of the homes would be thoroughly cleansed, new clothing would be purchased, and an extra effort would be made to attend services at the Mandirs each night. The atmosphere and environment is filled with joy, devotion and happiness throughout

the country, and people would celebrate the festival with great spirituality.

The manifestation of Durga Ma is related in this simple story form, so that children in particular can follow and understand why Hindus celebrate Navratri and its significance. Long ago, there was a wicked demon King, Mahishasura; he wanted to be powerful and rule the three

worlds. Therefore, he performed severe penance to please Lord Brahma. When Lord Brahma was pleased and appeared before him, Mahishasura asked for a boon, to be immortal; that is to never die and to take the form of any human or animal. But Lord Brahma said, “Mahisha, all that is born must die; tat is the universal law. You cannot escape that.” Mahishasura thought for a while and said, “If I must die, my Lord, it should be in the hands of a woman”. Lord Brahma agreed and granted him the boon and returned to his abode. Mahishasura thoughtHow can a woman kill a man? That is Impossible. I am now the most powerful

person in the whole universe. Mahishasura immediately ordered his army to attack the humans on the earth and the Gods/ Devas in the Devaloka (heaven).

Mahishasura and his men became a menace- they started bullying and destroying the Devaloka and no one could touch him. The King of Devas- Indra, went to the Trimurtis- Brahma, Vishnu and Siva and explained the situation to them. The three Gods created a powerful woman with several hands (transformed Mata Parvati, as she herself was Adishakti, the supreme power). Lord Shiva offered his trishul to Her. Vishnu, his Sudarsana chakra, Lord Indra his Vajrayudha- or thunderbolt. They named her Durga.

Durga- now, a powerful Goddess armed with inner strength, courage and wisdom with arms gifted by the powerful Devas set out on a lion to destroy Mahishasura.

Mahishasura’s heart skipped a beat when he heard the thunder of Goddess Durga’s arrival. Still, he asked “A mere female trying to attack me?” Durga Ma responded “I not an ordinary female, Mahisha. I am here to fulfil your desire to be killed by a woman” He immediately realised it was a danger sign for him and changed himself into a buffalo and charged the Goddess with all his might. Ma Durga with her inborn power and acquired weapons killed Mahishasura after a long battle. The day Goddess Durga killed the wicked demon Mahishasura is celebrated as Vijayadashami .

This day is also celebrated as a victory of Good over Evil. (To be continued).

Respectfully, Jai Lall

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

ANSA McAL helps pilot innovative medical device on local market –– in bid to help women at risk for cervical cancer know their status before it’s too late

ANSA McAL, one of the leading distributors here of prescription medicines and medical supplies, on Friday partnered with the American firm, Mel-Mont Medical, to donate 100 human papillomavirus (HPV) testing kits to the local NGO, Giving Hope Foundation.

The kits at reference, the Mía by XytoTest, are among the latest on the market where self-testing is concerned, and according to the marketers, is a comprehensive diagnostic system developed and patented

by Mel Mont Medical.

This innovative system, they say, includes medical devices that allow women at high risk for the HPV, or even cervical cancer, to self-collect cells in any environment without assistance, so as those ‘cultures’ can

Giving Hope Foundation’s founder, Dr. Latoya Gooding, making her presentation during the handing over of the kits on Friday

be later sent to be properly analysed.

According to Andrel Griffith, ANSA McAL’s divisional head of health and wellness, with Guyana being the first country in the English-speaking Caribbean in which this system will be launched, the first 100 kits will be distributed through the Giving Hope Foundation, where a mini trial test will be conducted to ensure that the brand, Mía by XytoTest, is ‘top notch’, before formally introducing on the local market on a large scale.

He further noted that systems are in place whereby after each kit is used, it can be sent overseas to complete the testing process, and have the results made available within 14 days.

Receiving the donation on the behalf of the Giving Hope Foundation was Dr. Latoya Gooding, who said that not only is she pleased to be in receipt of the kits, but she’s also excited about what it portends.

“I am even more excited about the kit, because it allows a woman to be in the comfort and privacy of her home, do the test, and mail it back to us,” Dr. Gooding said, adding: “We are also sure that we will get the adequate amount of specimens needed to complete the test.”

Dr. Gooding also noted that training sessions will be conducted with medical personnel and persons who will be using the kits, so as to ensure that they are well informed about the product and its usage.

And in commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Roche Pharma, another ‘big-name’ in the pharmaceutical business, has, through ANSA McAL, also provided a monetary donation to the Giving hope Foundation to help 10 women get tested for breast cancer.

ANSA McAL’s Mr. Andrel Griffith handing over the testing kits to Giving Hope Foundation’s Dr. Latoya Gooding

Body of epileptic pastor found in creek THE body of a pastor was found floating in a creek next to his farm at Canal Number One, West Bank Demerara (WBD), police said.

Dead is Maurice Wilson, 53, of Vauxhall Canal Number Two Polder, WBD. He reportedly drowned on Thursday afternoon.

The man’s wife told investigators that her husband, who is also a farmer, suffered from epilepsy.

Police said the pastors’ wife, 50-year-old Shundell Wilson, indicated that she

followed her husband by foot up to L’Oire Back Dam, where he continued his journey on foot by himself enroute to his farm which is situated about 180 rods from the Number one Canal Road.

She said she returned to their residence but at about 18:40 hours, she became worried about her husband’s wellbeing after he did not return home and contacted a family friend who immediately dispatched a search party.

At about 19:15 hours while making checks, the

Dead: Maurice Wilson body of the 53-year-old man was found floating face downwards in a creek at the western side of farm.

The search party contacted the family of the deceased who removed his body from the creek and summoned the police to the scene.

No marks of violence were seen on the exposed parts of the body.

Police are continuing their investigations.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

Croal wants to see speedier access to loans –– water services to be significantly expanded in next five years

By Rabindra Rooplall

THE Housing Ministry intends to engage the banking sector to introduce single-window processing to reduce permit processing time to under a month, while focusing on infrastructure and urgent reforms needed to accelerate the sector.

This is according to Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal while speaking at the “Dream Realised Housing Drive 2020” at the Providence Stadium on Friday.

“If anything, COVID-19 has taught us that we must have a back-up plan for when things go wrong, or when it’s out of your control. The insurance companies present can help you with your backup plan. Be sure to visit their booths and have a chat with them about your options; not just about house insurance, but about health and other solutions they may have,” Minister Croal noted.

He also advised the hundreds of persons in attendance to access the services offered by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) and the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).

“Be sure to leave your correct contact information.

Too often we’ve found that information for applicants is incorrect or had changed, and this makes it difficult for the officers to make contact.

Be sure, too, to ask every question you may have, so that you can leave here with a clear understanding of the process, so that you can plan properly,” Minister Croal said, adding: “We are working to improve all of the processes for the services offered by these two agencies, so that citizens do not become frustrated with the time taken to have access to potable water; for reconnections, meter in-

associated infrastructure. But your government is acutely aware of the needs of you the citizens, and my Ministry has spared no effort to fast-track the process to ensure that as many of you that qualify can be awarded your titles and transports in record time,” the Housing Minister said.

Emphasising that the Government has reversed many of the previous regime’s burdensome interventions in the sector, Minister Croal said chief among those poorly-thought-out policies was the imposition of VAT on building materials.

“We have raised the ceiling for Mortgage Interest Relief already, from $15M to $30M, and increased the limit for low-income loans. Let me say this raising the Mortgage Interest Relief threshold will result in at least 55 per cent Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal and CH&PA staff on Friday assisting persons who visited the of borrowers will be able to recover from $500,000 Providence Stadium with queries pertaining to the sector (Adrian Narine photo) to $1M yearly, once they stallations, fault reporting or ical to homes, especially for thrusts of the Government, apply for the relief. That, my status updates.” those families with children PROMISES FULFILLED and that every Guyanese’s friends, is your Government He also asked that ap- and adults who are in school Government has al- dream of home-ownership in action,” Croal told the plicants be patient as the or university. Cheaper In- ready reduced the Value will be realised. gathering. ministry works on infra- ternet services are extreme- Added Tax (VAT) on buildGovernment, he said, will At the venue were Banks, structure for many areas. ly important, and with the ing materials to facilitate ensure that the house lots that and Minister Croal said the recent liberalisation of the affordable financing for are being allocated are ser- title or transport received ESSENTIAL telecommunication sector, homeownership, and to viceable, and that residents should allow a person to be COMPONENT already the cost for Internet promote home ownership, can occupy them, knowing able to access an affordable Given that the water has become more affordable. particularly among youths that critical amenities like loan. sector is an essential com- It is my hope that other op- and young professionals. water, roads, and street lights “Low-income housing ponent of homeownership erators will soon announce “We promised to ensure are in place. loans, an initiative of the and community develop- similar reductions,” Minister that water rates remain afBut to achieve this, Min- PPP/C, is offered by all of ment, Minister Croal said Croal said. fordable; to reinstate water ister Croal said, will entail our local banks, including key focus will be placed on “I am overjoyed today subsidies to pensioners; to a gradual process, as the Scotiabank. I want to ask the expanding water services that after just 75 days of the expand treated water to more right things will be done in a banks especially that they be throughout Guyana in the PPP/C returning to power, areas; to upgrade the distri- responsible and sustainable cognisant of the hardships next five years, which will we are able to hand out over bution and transmission of way, as several reforms will that COVID-19 has brought not only see an 350 certificates of titles and water in urban, rural and hin- be implemented. on many citizens, and to be increase in metering but transports to citizens who terland areas; to reduce losses Owning your own home, flexible with applicants when also the expansion of treated have been waiting for many in the distribution system, he said, is a personal achieve- they approach your bank,” he water coverage throughout years to become home-own- and to create institutional ment that everyone strives added.

Guyana. ers,” he added. mechanisms to rationalise the for, but is not always easily Also present at the At the Providence StadiHe told the gathering country’s water resources, or readily done. event were the President, um, telephone, Internet and that in its 2020 Manifesto, through an Integrated Wa“The challenges are Dr. Irfaan Ali; Minister cable operators were all rep- the PPP/C promised to ter Resources Management many: Access to easy fi- within the Ministry of resented, and they have gen- create 10,000 house lots framework over the next five nance; affordable building Housing and Water, Suerously lowered the prices annually, and to invest in years,” Minister Croal said. materials and insurance; rep- san Rodrigues; Permanent for their services and devices. support infrastructure in He explained that the utable and honest contrac- Secretary, Andre Ally; and “Now more than ever, existing and new housing housing challenge in Guyana tors; and, most of all, the the CEO of the CH&PA, access to the Internet is crit- schemes. is one of the most significant availability of land and the Sherwyn Greaves.

Two persons die from COVID-19

By Navendra Seoraj TWO persons have succumbed to the dreaded novel coronavirus (COVID-19) within the past 24 hours, taking the death toll to 109.

Local authorities identified the victims as being a 48-yearold male from Region One (Barima-Waini) and a 71-yearold female from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

The Minister of Health expressed condolences to the families of these victims and pledged to make every effort to provide all the necessary support during this difficult time.

Health authorities have so far tested 16,561 persons, with 12,889 being negative and 3,672 positive. Some 52 of those positive cases were recorded within the past 24

hours alone.

Of the total positive cases, 2,590 persons have recovered and 109 have lost their lives.

The remaining cases include 112 persons in institutional isolation, 850 in home isolation and 13 in the COVID-19 ICU. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new-

ly-discovered coronavirus.

Most people who fall sick with COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate symptoms, and recover without special treatment.

The WHO had said that 81 per cent of the persons who contract COVID-19 will have mild symptoms while 14 per cent will have severe symptoms, and five per cent will need intensive care.

But the COVID-19 disease has proven to be “a real killer”, especially in cases involving persons who have co-morbidities such as diabetes and hypertension among other ailments.

Persons were encouraged to take extra precaution because there is no approved cure or specific treatment for the disease. Guyanese were also reminded to observe the

protocols established in the COVID-19 emergency measures.

Anyone who displays any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or needs any additional information, can contact the COVID-19 Emergency numbers: 231 1166, 226 7480 or 624 6674 immediately, or visit the ministry’s website at www. health.gov.gy.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, October 17, 2020

Housing in Guyana must be envy of Caribbean ― Minister Susan Rodrigues

By Rabindra Rooplall GOVERNMENT is exploring all opportunities which will provide house lots and homes in communities with proper roads, drainage, water, electricity, street lights, recreational and shopping centres that will make Guyana the envy of the Caribbean and South America.

This is according to Minister within the Housing Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, during her address at the Providence Stadium where the Housing Ministry commenced a two-day, “Dream Realised Housing Drive 2020,” on Friday.

The aim of the government is to transform the housing landscape of Guyana and Minister Rodrigues said this must happen with pace.

“With the influx of foreign investors we must be willing as a nation to embrace the technological advances in the construction sector which will provide opportunities for training and further expedite the construction of homes, thereby allowing us to fulfill our manifesto promise

Minister within the Housing Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, interacts with one of many persons at the Providence Stadium on Friday (Adrian Narine photo)

of 50,000 lots,” Minister Rodrigues said.

Adding that government has already signalled interest in ensuring the requisite policy measures are put in place to encourage home

ownership, she said this also includes increasing the ceiling for mortgage interest relief from $15M to $30M and moving the low-income threshold for loans from $8M to $10M.

This, Rodrigues said, allows greater access to financial resources as government alone cannot deliver such a transformational agenda, and therefore, must meaningfully engage the

Alleged Ponzi schemers face new charges ACCELERATED Capital Firm Inc’s (ACFI’s) Yuri Garcia Dominguez and Ateeka Ishmael, on Friday, returned to court to answer fresh charges which were filed by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU.) The Cuban national and his Guyanese wife, appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court accused of operating a pyramid selling scheme in breach of the Consumer Affairs Act, No. 13 of 2011 and carrying on a business without registering with the Guyana Securities Council, in breach of the Securities Industries Act. Cap 73:04.

The couple, who was represented by attorney-at-law Dexter Todd was released on $25,000, bail on each charge.

The state was represented by prosecutor Corporal

Goodridge.

The case was adjourned to November 2.

The couple is accused of soliciting millions of dollars from hundreds of Guyanese who were enticed by

Accelerated Capital Firm Inc. was not registered with the Guyana Securities Council to conduct financial business either as an investment adviser and/or a broker.

The Anti-Money Laun-

ACFI Financial Adviser, Yuri Garcia Dominguez and his wife, ACFI Director, Ateeka Ishmael

extraordinary returns of approximately 40%. Investors were also encouraged to enlist additional investors on a commission (10%) basis.

dering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act Cap. 10:11 prohibits businesses from operating as financial Institutions, without

the necessary registration for regulation and supervision by the Regulatory Authorities, FIU and Guyana Securities Council.

Dominguez, his wife and their company have been in the limelight since early August, when the company was accused of running a Ponzi scheme. It is alleged that over 17,000 persons have invested over US$20 million in the company.

The couple was arrested in August and released on bail totalling $30 million after appearing in various courts on dozens of charges.

Earlier this week, the couple’s Coldingen, East Coast Demerara (ECD) home was searched by SOCU officials and several items, including computers, other electronic equipment and records were seized.

private sector and private partners.

Noting that some of those partners are in the form of the banks and insurance companies, among others, Minister Rodrigues said the private sector input will allow government to make that transformation a reality.

As such, she noted this will help to deliver on commitments even more quickly because people have waited long enough and they have elected a government whom they trust to manage their future and the resources of the country.

“As the Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, I wish to take this opportunity to personally thank His Excellency for gracing us with his presence and for joining us in celebrating and highlighting the accomplishment of the persons who will be receiving their land titles and transports today,” she said.

HOME OWNERSHIP One of the biggest achievements in a person’s life is home ownership, she said.

“It brings with it a sense of pride, fulfilment and security. It opens the door to endless opportunities, such as access to lending institutions, climbing the social ladder, and leaving an inheritance for your children,

thereby providing the next generation with a stepping stone on which to begin their own lives,” she said.

Under the leadership of President Ali, Minister Rodrigues said the housing sector will be restored to the place it once enjoyed, and will be steered to move beyond allocation of house lots but will focus mainly on encouraging, promoting and facilitating home ownership and community building.

“We are determined to provide every Guyanese family with a decent home, in a safe, secure and proper neighbourhood; not as squatters or tenants, but as responsible and proud owners with titles that banks and other lending institutions will regard as good security,” Minister Rodrigues noted.

The housing development programme is designed to implement national housing and settlement policies through an efficient, well-planned, coordinated and structured framework, in order to realise the development of sustainable, affordable and modern settlements.

Minister Rodrigues said government will deliver serviced lots through a comprehensive and coordinated approach among all of the agencies involved in order for Guyanese of all income brackets to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

Rodrigues said Guyana is on the cusp of a great transformation and government will make it possible for the country to benefit from that development, and for Guyanese of all walks of life to experience a significant elevation in their standard of living.

“I wish to congratulate the title and transport recipients. As you walk across this stage a little later to receive your title, you should be proud of yourselves, appreciating your own efforts and sacrifices to get to this point, and realising the significance of your achievement,” the junior housing minister added.

She wished the recipients a great future and assured them that the Housing Ministry’s engagement would not end here, but will continue as citizens pursue the next step in owning a home.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

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$111M in drugs, medical supplies never delivered –– Region Two RDC launches investigation

THE newly-formed Region Two Regional Democratic Council (RDC) will be launching an investigation into the supply of drugs and medical supplies, amounting to $111.58M, that was made under the previous Government but was never delivered.

This issue was given priority at the first RDC statutory meeting on Wednesday.

According to the RDC Chairwoman, Vil-

supplied.

He also explained that an Inter-Departmental Warrant for $210.180M was issued to the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) for procurement of drugs and medical supplies on the region’s behalf. The warrant was issued on January 21, 2019.

According to Ramdatt, a financial return was received indicating that the entire

Clerk of the RDC, Devanand Ramdatt, speaking at the recent RDC meeting ma De Silva, the Council’s Health Committee will be looking into the malpractices and discrepancies highlighted in a report from the Office of the Auditor-General.

The Regional Health Committee is chaired by PPP/C Councillor, Arnold Adams. Regional Health Officer, Dr. Ranjeev Singh, who sits on the committee, will now be tasked with reviewing all the drugs that were supplied to the region within the period that was given in the audit report and reveal such findings to the committee.

Meanwhile, according to the clerk of the RDC, Devanand Ramdatt, the sum of $228.705 M was budgeted for the procurement of drugs and medical supplies under health services programme-line item 6221 and from that total, only $18.525M was

amount was expended. However, a statement of reconciliation was received from the Materials Management Unit (MMU) in August 2020, which reflected the cost of the deliveries of $98.6M with a balance totalling $111.58M. Ramdatt said the regional administration is therefore seeking, from the Ministry of Health, a Statement of Reconciliation for the balance totaling $111.580M. He said the investigations will also flagged the weaknesses as well as provide a comprehensive report that will serve as a guide to prevent such an incident from reoccurring. The committee that is set up to look into the anomaly includes members from both the Government and Opposition.

Alleged ganja trafficker granted bail TAXI driver, Marvin Pillay, on Friday, appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court charged with possession of 202 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

The Duncan Street, Campbellville resident pleaded not guilty to the charge and was released on $150,000 bail by Magistrate Delon Bess.

It was alleged that on October 15, 2020 at 14:45 hours, police ranks attached to the Narcotics Branch executed a search on Pillay’s hire car bearing registration number

HC9999 which he was driving at the time.

During the search, a multicolored hand bag was uncovered. In the presence of Pillay, the bag was searched and a transparent Ziploc plastic bag containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis was found inside.

He was cautioned and told of the offence committed. Subsequently, he was arrested and escorted to the Narcotics Branch where the cannabis was weighed.

The matter was adjourned to November 11 at Court Two.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

Sleepin owner wins defamation suit

–– will collect $27.5M JUSTICE Sandil Kissoon, on Friday, awarded $27.5M to the owner of Sleepin Group of Hotels, Clifton Bacchus, for a defamation of character lawsuit filed against former Guyana Chronicle Editor-in-Chief (EiC), Nigel Williams, and the Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL).

Additionally, Pasha Global Inc. and Yokohama

Trading Guyana Inc., were each awarded $12.5M in damages.

Bacchus, along with Pasha Global Inc. and Yokohama Trading Guyana Inc. took GNNL– the printers of the Guyana Chronicle– and Williams to court following the publication of an offensive article on August 15, 2017.

The front-page headline of the article read, “Tracking

the money…Sleepin boss, associate snared in money laundering probe… SOCU tells Gaming Authority investigation since 2016.”

Further, on page 2 and 8 of the August 17, 2017 edition of the newspaper , Williams published or caused to be published an article under the heading, “The Dutch Connection…Sleepin Casino Surinamese partner was jailed for money laundering…Bacchus quizzed about permission to import slot machines.”

Businessman Clifton Bacchus

The former EiC and, by extension, the newspaper had tried to create a nexus between Bacchus and the Surinamese businessman’s legal troubles.

According to the newspaper, Bhagwandath Parmasar is the owner of Yokohama Trading Company, the parent company of Pasha Global Group, which the paper claimed was the main player in the setup of the Carnival Casino, owned by Bacchus.

JUDGEMENT In delivering his judgement, Justice Kissoon found that the publications were defamatory to the Claimants in that they were published maliciously and falsely conveyed to the ordinary man that Bacchus and the companies were part of a criminal enterprise that engaged in money laundering in various jurisdictions and that Bacchus had no independent legitimate source of income.

The judge said that it was falsely conveyed that the alleged crimes included transnational drug trafficking and money laundering.

Justice Kissoon found also that the publications painted an image to the public that Bacchus’ hotel was part of a criminal enterprise engaged in money laundering, and that Pasha Global worldwide casino operations and the importation and resale of motor vehicles by Yokohama Trading Guyana Inc. were fronts for unlawful acts and were not legitimate businesses. The false narratives that the Pasha Global worldwide and Yokohama Trading Guyana Inc. were partners in Bacchus’ hotel and the owner jailed for money laundering and drug trafficking, were also reflected.

The newspaper alleged that the hotel was not financially sound, hence their money laundering activities, and that the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) had trapped and caught Bacchus and associates laundering money in an investigation

Former GNNL’s Editor-in-Chief, Nigel Williams

that it had undertaken in 2016.

The court found that the news articles lowered the reputation of Bacchus in the eyes of right-thinking members of society and discredited the Claimants in their trade and business and destroyed their financial standing in the business community.

Having considered the foregoing aggravating and mitigating factors, the judge ordered GNNL and its former EiC to pay $25M for general damages, along with $2.5M for exemplary damages.

Further, with regards to Pasha Global Inc. and Yokohama Trading Guyana Inc., GNNL and Williams were ordered to pay $12.5M to each of the companies.

The Court also granted permanent injunctions restraining the GNNL and its servants and/or agents from publishing any statement whatsoever concerning Bacchus, which will suggest, or tend to suggest or convey, the impression that his business, Sleepin International Hotel and Casino Inc., Yokohama Trading Guyana Inc. and Pasha Global Inc. are engaged in, connected to, associated with, and funded by criminal conduct and from criminal proceeds derived from illicit or criminal activities.

The newspaper was also ordered to remove the published articles from its website within 48 hours.

MALICE The award of compensation by the court was motivated by several aggravating factors including Bacchus’ despicable conduct; malice on the part of the GNNL and Williams, and the publication of false statements as facts knowing that they were not true.

The court also took into consideration GNNL and its former EiC’s failure to issue an apology to Bacchus or publish a retraction.

It was noted that the newspaper had Bacchus’

application for a Casino Licence including his financial statements in their possession at the time of publication.

Although the financial statements established that Bacchus had registered financial charges secured on his assets in Guyana for almost $1 billion, the newspaper portrayed in their publications that Bacchus was without legitimate income, was involved in money laundering and drug trafficking, and that his application for a casino licence was refused because he was without financial standing.

The court further noted that the first publication was made a day before the Gaming Authority was expected to visit the hotel for an inspection, pursuant to an application for a casino licence and that the second publication was made a day after the Gaming Authority’s visit, and was done maliciously to influence the process and/ or to ensure that Bacchus’ application was refused.

Lastly, the Court found that the newspaper and its former EiC failed to verify the facts and that they were aware that Bacchus had issued a statement on the August 15, 2017, after the first publication and nevertheless went on to publish a more elaborate and malicious article two days later without ever carrying the businessman’s statement.

Consequently, the court found that the publications were beyond libellous and were reckless, baseless and irresponsible and that the Defendants were motivated by expressed malice for an improper purpose.

The Claimants were represented by attorneys, Anil Nandlall, Manoj Narayan, Rajendra Jaigobin and Anuradha Deodasingh.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

Disability community gets much-needed assistance

Mr. and Mrs. Algoo

A representative of the company presenting a cash donation to one of the students

Sabrina Algoo with GCOPD Programme Coordinator, Ganesh Singh, on Friday

THE owners of N&S Algoo Brokers, on Friday, provided much help to several persons with disabilities by providing them with items and cash needed to further their education, among others things.

The Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) spoke well of the company and said it greatly appreciates the kind donations. The initiative was held in observance of ‘Cancer Awareness Month’.

‘Care vouchers’, office equipment, cash donations and other tokens were distributed to a number of persons during a simple ceremony at the company’s office, at Public Road, Kitty.

“We believe in being charitable. We have always liked this because we were brought up from humble beginnings and experienced poverty as well. This pan-

demic has increased the need for everyone to help each other; we have decided that if we set a pace, others may be inclined to follow,” Owner Sabrina Algoo told this publication.

One student who is blind received a mobile phone to help her access her school work, while another received a cash donation to help her cover the cost for writing the Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) exams in the near future.

Additionally, the care vouchers received by GCOPD will be given to two women with disabilities to visit a specialist to have a breast examination done and to conduct other medical tests. GCOPD also received a high efficiency multi-functioning printer.

“Our religion (Islam) emphases that if we are charitable to God’s creation, the rewards will be beneficial for

us in the hereafter. As you can see from the programme, not only breast cancer was highlighted but we had a bursary award to one of our employee’s daughters,” Algoo informed.

According to her, both of

the students with disabilities who received the donation are enthusiastic about life but are unable to afford the luxury of owning a phone or paying for exams. “It is heartbreaking to have a comfortable life and see others

suffer,” she expressed.

Meanwhile, GCOPD Programme Coordinator, Ganesh Singh, expressed gratitude to Algoo and her husband, Nandalall Algoo, for the donation that he said is significant and timely. “The directors of N&S Algoo Brokers pledged their continued support for GCOPD and the disability community,” he added.

N&S Algoo Brokers is a large customs brokerage firm in Guyana that has been

in existence for about two decades. Algoo is a qualified broker since 2001 and both him and his wife has years of experience in the brokerage and shipping industries.

“We have a staff of 16 persons and the service we offer is an inclusive one. Once the customer appoints us as their agent, life becomes hassle free for them. We take it upon ourselves, as if it is our own cargo we are handling,” said Algoo.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

Ministerial walkab at Stabroek Squar –– Benn, Edghill tackle congestion issues

HOME Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn, and Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, on Friday, visited the Stabroek Market Square to assess the congestion problem in the area.

Accompanying the ministers on the walkabout were adviser to the minister on the security sector, Harry Gill; Regional Commander of Division Four, Assistant Commissioner Simon McBean; Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Ramesh Ashram; and Permanent Secretary of the Home Affairs Ministry, Mae Toussaint Jr. Thomas.

The main aim of the walkabout was to consider sustainable ways to counter the congestion problem in the busy downtown shopping area.

Minister Benn highlighted several issues including the disorganised manner in which the minibuses operate. As a possible remedy, he suggest-

ed that there be a first come first serve system established for the minibuses.

“We all know that the situation around this area is precarious. It’s congested and dangerous, and we have to try again to bring a reasonable situation with respect to traffic flow and the safety of persons traversing the area.”

Further, the minister spoke to the issue of vendors adding to the congestion of the market square by having their movable stalls extended onto the roadway.

He stated that there needs to be a clear indication of where the road ends and tasked the police with the responsibility of making the required demarcations.

Additionally, he used the opportunity to engage the vendors who are blocking the entrance and exit to the Guyana Fire Service headquarters.

“We are not happy of

course with a lot of selling that is going on [on] the roadway which should be open to traffic and the fire service assets; the fire trucks and the ambulances. That’s a very difficult situation at the moment. We are requiring that the persons that are selling on the roadway to move off of the roadways,” he said.

The minister stated that presently, he does not foresee the removal of the fire station from that Stabroek Market location as it is strategically positioned to speedily respond to the fire prone areas in central Georgetown. He further noted that the fire service will be looking to demarcate the fire lanes so that there is free movement of the fire service vehicles.

During the walkabout, attempts were made to identify representatives for the varying minibus districts and the vendors. Minister Benn stated

(From Left) Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill and Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, making their way through the Stabroek Market Square (Elvin Croker photo)

(From Right) Fire Chief, Marlon Gentle; Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn and Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill, assessing the access points to the fire service headquarters which are often times blocked by the vendors (Elvin Croker photo)

Ministers Robeson Benn and Juan Edghill at one of the stalls which is affecting the free movement of fire service vehicles (Elvin Croker photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

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that he intends to host discussions with those representatives to devise solutions for the congestion issues which would benefit everyone.

Minister Benn further highlighted that he has noticed many of the vendors flouting the COVID-19 guidelines. He expressed his intent to engage the relevant body with regards to looking into that situation.

“It appears to me that many vendors are selling without the wearing of masks. I don’t see the spray bottles and hand wipes for some of the people who were selling. I’m not sure that the vegetables are washed before given to the customers,” he said.

Meanwhile, ranks of the Guyana Police Force will be moving ahead with the demarcating and installation of road signs to clearly indicate the spaces which are allocated for vehicular use at the Stabroek Market Square.

Mmg+ deposits with GBTI being updated every two hours MOBILE Money Guyana (mmg+) has announced that all mmg+ deposits with the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) will now be updated every twohours for even quicker access to funds.

General Manager of mmg+, Bobita Ram, said the department continues to work with its partners to

General Manager of mmg+, Bobita Ram

Ruling in ‘Saga’ murder PI postponed MAGISTRATE Fabayo Azore, on Friday, deferred her ruling in the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the 2017 murder of Godfrey Scipio, called “Saga”, to October 22.

Former Detective, Corporal Derwin Eastman, and former Constable, Jameson Williams, were jointly charged with murdering the popular D’Urban Street, Georgetown businessman at Kitty during the course of a robbery.

The case is being heard at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and the magistrate had previously set Friday as the date for ruling.

Ranks from the Police Major Crime Unit were able to arrest the then serving cops, days after the alleged ‘trigger-man’, Aubrey Bobb, was charged with the October 12, 2017 murder.

Bobb is alleging that Eastman was the mastermind and had supplied him with the gun to carry out the hit.

The police arrested Bobb one day after reviewing CCTV footage from the Kitty hotel, where 64-year-old Scipio was shot and robbed. He had reportedly confessed that he had borrowed the gun to commit the crime. Bobb had previously served time for robbery.

Reports are that the Scipio was leaving the hotel in the company of a female friend, and was about to enter his car, which was parked in front of the building when he was accosted by a gunman.

The gunman, according to the police, discharged a round, hitting Scipio in the abdomen. He later relieved him of his jewellery before escaping on foot in a northern direction.

Scipio was rushed to a private city hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The stolen jewellery was never recovered.

Bobb is currently awaiting trial at the High Court for the crime.

ensure that its customers receive the best service with the greatest of efficiencies and convenience.

“This is just another way we continue to make business easier for our customers. As we adjust to the new normal, we need to ensure that processes become simpler and more customer friendly. Our product supports digital transactions, made especially necessary as together we limit physical interactions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Ram said.

Meanwhile, Public Relations and Marketing Manager at GBTI, Pamela Binda, said the bank is pleased

to facilitate and announce this service enhancement.

“The bank continues to upgrade its services in order to make banking easier, efficient and more convenient for our customers. With this upgrade. MMG transactions will result in the customers’ payments being faster. This is testimony to the fact that partnerships like these with mmg+ can help in making the lives of all better, easier and safer even as we navigate through the pandemic,” she said.

The GBTI public relations marketing manager is urging persons to sign up with the bank to use its online services to pay their

bills while avoiding lines and crowds.

While noting that this is the best time for persons to sign up and use mmg+ as we utilise more online and contactless transactions, Ram disclosed that mmg+ will soon be making additional, major developments. She said, “We will soon be making significant upgrades to the platform. I know for sure our customers will be very happy,” she added.

In May, mmg+ partnered with GBTI and Demerara Bank Limited (DBL) to provide the added convenience of online uploads to MMG wallets.

GBTI Public Relations and Marketing Manager, Pamela Binda

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Use money to buy arms to defeat hunger –– Pope urges on World Food Day

FRIDAY, World Food Day marks the 75th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations and Pope Francis has urged that money be used to buy arms and covers military expenses, be channeled to defeat hunger instead.

Born on the wake of catastrophe - World War II, three-quarters of a century later, FAO’s mission to end hunger and nourish the world has been made more relevant because of another global scourge - the COVID-19 pandemic, said QU Dongyu, FAO Director-General.

Along the way, the world, and with it FAO, went from growing more food, to getting attuned to its environmental footprints, setting up regulatory frameworks in response, getting animal diseases under control, and, finally, seeing the fight against hunger as inseparable from other development goals.

Hence, this year’s World Food Day’s theme is: grow, nourish, and sustain. Together.

“The present moment is again fraught with danger, complicated, and demands urgent action. As hunger grows once more, as the COVID-19 pandemic exposes the fragility of our food systems, history is calling upon us once more to rise to the challenge,” urged Qu. The Director-General spoke at FAO’s global 75th Anniversary/World Food Day virtual event in Rome, which brought together Pope Francis; Italy’s President; Lesotho’s King and Spain’s Queen - FAO Special Goodwill Ambassadors for Nutrition; UN’s Secretary General; and the heads of IFAD and WFP. Saluting FAO’s anniversary, Pope Francis described the organisation’s mission as “beautiful and important”.

Simon Laura and his daughter tend to their vegetables on the outskirts of El Alto de La Paz, Bolivia (FAO photo) W o r l d F o o d D a y i s in re-imagining our food marked this year as global systems and ending hunger, hunger rises for the fifth con- as we are morally and politisecutive year and a healthy cally bound to do in the next diet is out of reach for three 10 years.” billion people. Nearly 700 Pope Francis urged for million people still go hun- more support for FAO’s and gry, and the pandemic could all UN food agencies’ initiatip up to 132 million more tives that promote sustainable into hunger by the end of and diversified agriculture, 2020. and support small farming This year’s World Food communities and the rural Day aims to galvanise and ac- development of the poorest celerate action towards end- countries. ing hunger and malnutrition Using the money that in all its forms, and to make buys arms and covers milifood and agriculture an es- tary expenses for defeating sential part of the COVID-19 hunger and rural developresponse. ment instead would also be a Chief amongst them, as “courageous decision”, said speakers at today’s event the Pope. noted, are global solidarity “Hunger is not merely a and building more resilient, disaster for humanity but also robust agri-food systems that a disgrace... We cannot fail can withstand shocks, deliver to respond or to act. We all affordable and sustainable are responsible,” said Pope healthy diets for all, and de- Francis. cent livelihoods for all workHis words were echoed ers along the food supply by UN’s Secretary-Generchain. al, António Guterres, who “Now is the time to re- called for intensified efforts think our approaches and re- to achieve the vision of Susdouble our efforts,” said Qu. tainable Development Goals Amongst these, Qu high- - “a future where everyone lighted pioneering sciences everywhere has access to and technologies, stressing the nutrition they need.” To that, “Innovation is our ally inspire action towards this

Duo charged with stabbing death of 16-year-old TWO youths, on Friday, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court charged with stabbing a teen labourer to death, after challenging him to a fight.

The youths were remanded to prison.

Melonnen De Florimonte known as “Meko” and Rayson James known as “Ray Ray”, were not required to plead to the indictable charge of murder

when they appeared before Magistrate Clive Nurse.

They allegedly killed 16-year-old Jumal Park on Tuesday at Front Road, West Ruimveldt.

According to the facts of the case, the accused and the deceased are familiar with each other but are not friends. On the day in question the deceased was at the Front Road wash bay where he works, when the accused in company of an-

other, accosted him. They were armed with a knife and a piece of wood.

An argument ensued which led to Park being attacked. He sustained severe injuries to his left side chest.

The accused then made good their escape but were apprehended the following day.

Magistrate Nurse remanded them to prison until November 18 and transferred the matter to Court One.

vision, Guterres said, he will convene a Food Systems Summit next year.

Noting that his country was proud to host FAO’s headquarters, Italy’s President, Sergio Mattarella, said he welcomed FAO’s and its Director-General’s “commit-

ment to work with Italy and many other countries in forging a “food coalition” aimed at containing the effects of COVID-19 on food systems.”

This is the moment of “crucial choices”, and of “a serious global commitment,” concluded Mattarel-

la, who expressed hope for the international community to rediscover a “profound meaning of the valuable goods the earth offers us” and the “responsibility to share and safeguard them for future generations.”

(FAO)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

Contractors in race against time --to finish repairing Diamond roads within one-week deadline or risk having arrangement terminated ‘with immediate effect’

THE next seven or so days could see contractors working on rehabilitating four streets in the East Bank Demerara (EBD) community of Diamond, racing against

time to meet the new deadline they’ve been given to get the job done.

The deadline, in the form of a seven-day ultimatum from Minister of Public

Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, comes after the contractors have been on the job since last year when they were awarded the contract by the past administration.

Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill, and members of his team during their fact-finding visit to Diamond on Wednesday

The ultimatum was issued on Wednesday after Minister Edghill and a team from Ministry of Public Works (MoPW) technical staff, as well as members of the Grove/Diamond Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), including its chairman, Ms. Indrani Ramnarine, paid the community a visit to see how the work was coming along.

The visit was prompted by numerous complaints from residents, as well as members of the Grove-Diamond NDC, and sure enough, just as they’d been told, the team found that in many cases, the roads were just as bad as they’d always been, or, at best, unfinished.

Upon seeing for himself what obtained, Minister Edghill decreed that if the contractors cannot get the job done, the contract would have to be terminated with immediate effect, and just let staff of the Ministry’s Force Account Unit do it instead.

“The people can’t be suffering all the time; they need proper roads and infrastructure, and with my team on the ground, they will get the job done,” Minister Edghill said.

In the contractors defence, the NDC Chairman said the last she heard was that they were waiting on asphalt to fill the holes in some of the cross streets.

“We are happy the minister and his team are here today, and I am confident that they will get the job done and in a timely manner,” Ms.

Two of the four streets that are yet to be completed in Diamond

Ramnarine said.

In addition to those works that are yet to be completed, the ministry disclosed that the rehabilitation of four avenues in Diamond, namely 5th,8th, 11th and 17th and the construction of roads at Aqueduct Corner, will also

be undertaken in the weeks ahead.

The ministry also disclosed that the main access road in the scheme will be fully patched, while some other areas will continue to undergo major developmental works.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 17, 2020

CGX’s exploration licences, plan for deep water harbour being reviewed –– as gov’t gets ‘strict’ with company’s timeline, ability to deliver

Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat

By Navendra Seoraj THE Government of Guyana has started discussions on the renewal of exploration licences held

by Canadian oil and gas exploration company, CGX Energy Inc., and is simultaneously examining this company’s plan to construct a deep water harbour in the Berbice River.

CGX holds three licences in the Guyana-Suriname Basin, a frontier Basin in South America with a proven hydrocarbon system and highly-prospective deep water plays that can be drilled in shallow water.

The three licences held by the Canadian-based oil and gas exploration company are “New Demerara Petroleum Agreement”, “New Berbice Petroleum Agreement” and “Corentyne Petroleum Agreement” acquired in 2012 and 2013.

Those licences were seen as a big achievement because in 2000, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) identified the Guyana-Suriname Basin as having the second highest resource potential among unexplored oil basins in the world and currently estimates mean recoverable oil reserves of over 13.6 billion bbls and gas reserves of 32 trillion cubic ft.

Although receiving those licences between 2012 and 2013, the company is yet to establish a well offshore

Guyana, something the new government has expressed concerns about.

“We had a meeting with the Canadian High Commission and representatives from CGX to discuss these very issues… the President (Dr. Irfaan Ali) got involved along with myself and the ministers of public infrastructure… we had a meeting with them, not only on exploration but they are applying to do a deep water harbour… permission was given for all these projects a while now,” said Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Wednesday.

CGX, though facing some setbacks in 2007 because of a now resolved territorial dispute between Suriname and Guyana, has not yet made satisfactory progress in the area of drilling.

One of the company’s recent setbacks was said to be the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but Minister Bharrat said this excuse does not cover the prior three years.

“CGX has been here for a while now… they had an issue with Suriname, but that was resolved, plus there has been no drilling for the last three to four years,” said the minister, adding: “COVID-19 is being blamed, but COVID-19 has only been around for a couple of months now…

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25 receive tablets, free data from DDL

THE Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) Foundation has donated tablets and free data to the 25 students in the foundation.

According to a release, these gadgets will assist the students with their online classes as schools across the country are operating virtually due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.

The students will each receive one 8” Samsung Galaxy Tablet with charger. The tablets are all equipped with SIM Cards and the DDL Foundation has partnered with Digicel Guyana on a package that allows the student to receive free mobile data between the hours of 08:00 hours and 16:00 hours on school days plus and an extra 10 GB of data per month to assist with after school work.

DDL Foundation Chairman, Harryram Parmesar, commenting on the initiative said, “the foundation recognises that these

are extremely challenging times for our students most of whom do not have access to the Internet. The goal of the foundation is to ensure that all obstacles to learning are removed throughout the period of their study.”

He added: “We also want to say thank you to Digicel Guyana for working with us on an affordable package and assisting us with the project. I believe that this will be of tremendous help to our students and I hope they use this opportunity to the best of their abilities.”

The DDL Foundation was launched in December 2010, with the goal of advancing the education of students who have excelled in the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) by providing scholarships to assist with the main costs associated with attending school.

This includes books, uniforms, transportation and, in some cases, meals.

CGX’s exploration ...

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the President was direct on these issues with CGX, but I am sure the President will comment in-depth at an appropriate time.”

Minister Bharrat said President Ali was strict on issues regarding the company’s timelines and its ability to invest.

CONCERNS In speaking about some of the President’s concerns, the minister said: “Two areas he was very concerned with was whether they have the money to invest and start now, and whether they will drill, how early they will drill and how early they will start construction of the deep water harbour.”

No penalties were discussed, but the government, as mentioned, is discussing the renewal of the company’s exploration licences and its plan to construct a deep water harbour.

CGX, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Grand Canal Industrial Estates Inc. (GCIEI), had made a request for proposals for the provision of infrastructure services as part of the construction of a deep-water

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port facility at Crab Island in the Berbice River.

The facility, located 600 meters at the mouth of the Berbice River, when completed, is expected to support the offshore exploration work of CGX and its partners in the Corentyne Block offshore Guyana.

The company, on its website, had said that it is continuing with its plan to protect the health and safety of its employees and all stakeholders, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company’s alternative working arrangements for employees to work from home in Canada, Guyana and the USA are still in place.

CGX, however, reiterated its commitment to the resumption of operations as soon as possible, and assured that it has been engaged in “constructive”, collaborative discussions with the regulatory authorities in Guyana about the timing of its work commitments here.

With government reopening the international airports, CGX is expected to resume its activities. But, efforts to confirm this with officials of CGX proved futile.

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Harper expects stacked Test team to perform well against New Zealand … says lessons learnt in England will play big part

By Clifton Ross

the top-order, hopefully making it more productive, while Shimron gives the squad CRICKET West Indies (CWI) head se- more options in the middle-order. It is also lector Roger Harper is backing the West another opportunity for him to show how Indies to give good accounts of themselves good a player he is. Keemo provides another during their upcoming tour of New Zea- wicket-taking seam option.” said Harper. land set to bowl off next month.

An ex-Guyana and West Indies With the Caribbean side prepared to pos- all-rounder, Harper, further pressed on sibly engaged in some two Tests and three the notion that the experience gathered T20Is, Harper, during a virtual conference during the team’s return to live cricket yesterday said he was fully confident that during the pandemic whilst in England the respective sides chosen will perform to will help to better equip them for this next the best of their abilities, in a few weeks’ challenge that looms. time.

“The Test team has an opportunity to The Windies will be bolstered by the put into practice the learnings from the tour return of Guyanese Keemo Paul, Shim- of England earlier this year. The team has ron Hetmyer and Trinidad left-hander good all-round depth and I expect players Darren Bravo. Speaking on the return of to be very competitive. New Zealand are a 3 of the Caribbean’s top stars, who opted very good team especially in New Zealand, out of England, Harper was happy to see so we need to be on the top of our game,” a fully-featured unit heading into action. said the selector.

“The return of Darren Bravo, Shimron Harper made special mention of the Hetmyer and Keemo Paul will bolster the stylish but out-of-touch Shai Hope, who team, I expect that Darren will solidify was axed for the upcoming tour following

a poor series in England.

“Shai is a player who I think has a tremendous future in Test cricket but at the moment he needs to reorganise his Test match game and get his batting in the longest version, back to its best.” stated Harper.

The Test team seems to be back to full-strength but the T20 unit will have a few holes to fill after some big guns like Andre Russell, Evin Lewis and Lendl Simmons opted out. Harper, nevertheless, was adamant that the players will hold their own in the absence of some of their veteran stars.

“Lendl Simmons and Andre Russell are two very experienced T20 players who performed very well on the last tour of Sri Lanka and their absence will surely be noted. However, Andre Fletcher has another opportunity to show us what he can do and what he brings to the table.”

He continued, “The T20I players are now getting back into the groove after a nine-month absence from international

competition. Fortunately, a number of players have been involved in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and before that the CPL, so they have had some competitive cricket leading up to this tour.

Looking to the future, Windies, who are former two-time World T20 champs, will be seeking to get back to the helm of that format. Harper was firm on every challenge going forward being of utmost importance as they build their unit for the next World Cup. “In the build-up to the ICC T20 World Cup, every T20I series is an important opportunity to fine-tune the team, to get our personnel, our compositions and combinations right, for our players to become more attuned to their roles and the team to have a greater understanding of what works best in each situation.

“So, this is a very important series for us from that perspective and also in an effort to improve our rankings.” Harper ended.

ECB, PCB in talks for Pakistan tour

(ESPNCRICINFO) - The ECB has confirmed it is in talks with the PCB about a short tour to Pakistan in late January or early February. The tour, first revealed as a possibility by ESPNcricinfo, last week, is likely to consist of three T20Is and would be England’s first visit to Pakistan since late 2005.

Speaking yesterday, PCB chief executive, Wasim Khan, said he was “quietly confident” that the series would go ahead.

“We have a good relationship with the ECB people,” Khan said. “There was no deal struck when we went over to England (in July) but it’s been a constant communication, chairman to chairman, CEO to CEO. “The British High Commissioner has done a fantastic job in getting this on to the table for us as well. You need lots of people pulling in the right direction, and we are quietly confident. We’ll support ECB in all their assessments, everything they need to do, to try and get that series on in January.

“I wrote to them on October 12, on behalf of the PCB, inviting them to Pakistan. There was clearly a statement from ECB acknowledging that we’d written to them. It’s now just waiting for the formal response, and within that we’ll talk about what the next steps are, which will be the COVID-19 assessments, security assessments, all of those things that need to be ticked off.

“But there’s a huge will from ECB to come and do this because they know the importance for the global game but also cricket in Pakistan.”

While England are not currently scheduled to tour Pakistan until late 2022, PCB issued this invitation in the hope that England may have around a week between their tour of Sri Lanka which is currently planned for January and their Test and limited-overs series against India, which are due to take place from late January into March.

The ECB appears keen to make the tour happen. Not only is it grateful for Pakistan’s recently concluded tour of England - Pakistan’s players were obliged to spend several weeks in lockdown

due to COVID-19 protocols - but it is mindful of the powerful message such a tour would send to a country which was starved of top-flight cricket for many years due to security concerns.

“After discussions with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), we can confirm England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has received an invitation in respect of a short white-ball tour to Pakistan during the early part of 2021,” ECB said in a statement. “We welcome the fact that international cricket is returning to Pakistan and are committed to doing what we can to help this develop further.

“As with any proposed tour that takes place at this time, the safety and welfare of our players and staff is paramount. As such, there are a number of factors that need to be taken into consideration, including the proposed protocols in relation to COVID-19 bio-secure bubbles, the proposed levels of security around the team, as well as the feasibility of undertaking this tour against the backdrop of an already busy schedule of international cricket for the England men’s team.

“We will be liaising with PCB as well as other partners over the coming weeks to work through these considerations, before a final decision will be taken in due course.”

Quite a few pieces of the jigsaw will have to come together before the tour can be confirmed. For a start, ECB is likely to need to prioritise obligations which are already scheduled - the Sri Lanka Test series was originally meant to be played in March 2020 - and there is still some doubt over where the games against India will be played.

While it looks overwhelmingly likely the fixtures will be played in UAE due to prevalence of COVID-19 in India, BCCI is yet to officially acknowledge this. Due to the political tensions between the countries and current health requirements, it may also prove problematic to travel directly between Pakistan and India in the limited time available.

Recent reports from security consultants suggest that confidence in this regard has risen considerably. While security

for the tour would no doubt be extremely tight, there has been acceptance within ECB for some time that the tour in 2022 was viable.

The PCB will also need to satisfy ECB’s medical team that its plans for a bio-bubble are adequate. As has become standard in recent years, players uncomfortable with going on the tour are likely to be allowed to skip it without consequence.

If the tour does take place, it may be considered something of a coup for Khan. British-born Khan has come in for criticism from some aspects of Pakistan’s media since he was appointed to the role almost two years ago.

But he has forged a strong relationship with Tom Harrison, his counterpart at ECB, and has worked hard to assuage the security concerns touring teams had until recently.

If this tour goes ahead, one of the key aims of his time with the PCB will have been achieved.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Saturday, October 17, 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) Yusuf Pathan-100 (RR) (2) 4 centuries

TODAY’S QUIZ:

(1) Which wicketkeeper effected most dismissals in IPL 2010?

(2) What was the highest ever partnership for any wicket in IPL 2010?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, October 17, 2020

Paul, Hetmyer return to WI Test Umar Gul retires from squad ahead of New Zealand series all forms of cricket … Guyana Jags all-rounder Reifer among Test reserves GUYANESE stars Shimron Hetmyer and Keemo Paul return to the West Indies team ahead of the proposed New Zealand tour which is expected to bowl off November 27 through December 15 2020.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) yesterday announced the squads for the respective 3 T20 Internationals and 2 Tests which follow the bio-secure England series which was the first international series to be played amidst the pandemic.

Selectors have opted for a strong team, led by Jason Holder and featuring regulars like Shane Dowrich, Shannon Gabriel, Kraigg Braithwaite, Roston Chase and others who have formed the core of the Caribbean side’s Test unit over the past few years.

After a fantastic 2020 Hero CPL, Darren Bravo will also take his form back into the Test side, following the two Guyanese as the premier players to return after opting out of the England series.

Among those named in the reserves, Barbados-born Guyana Jaguars all-rounder Raymon Reifer, classy Windies youth batsman Joshua DaSilva, Nkrumah Bonner, Shayne Moseley, Preston McSween and Jayden Seales received the selectors nod.

Regarding the T20 unit, a few stars also make their return with Andre Fletcher, being named in the side since 2018 while Kyle Mayers continues to boost his career as he too

was named in the squad following a brilliant Regional season and CPL. However, Windies will miss the services of a few of their marquée T20 players in Andre Russell, Lendl Simmons and Evin Lewis who have opted out of the Kiwi tour; with their decisions being respected by CWI. Kieron Pollard, who led Trinbago Knight Riders to a historic CPL title win having won all their games, will lead the Windies T20 team with some experienced soldiers like Dwyane Bravo, Fletcher, Kesrick Williams and others on board.

Test squad: Jason Holder (captain), Jermaine Blackwood, Kraigg Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Shamarh Brooks, John Campbell, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Shane Dowrich, Shannon Gabriel, Shimron Hetmyer, Chemar Holder, Alzarri Joseph, Keemo Paul and Kemar Roach.

Test Reserves: Nkrumah Bonner, Joshua DaSilva, Preston McSween, Shayne Moseley, Raymon Reifer and Jayden Seales.

T20 Squad: Kieron Pollard (captain), Fabian Allen, Dwayne Bravo, Sheldon Cottrell, Andre Fletcher, Shimron Hetmyer, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman Powell, Keemo Paul, Nicholas Pooran, Oshane Thomas, Hayden Walsh Jr and Kesrick Williams.

Tottenham signed Wales centre-back Rodon

Rodon has won seven caps for Wales

(BBC) - Tottenham have signed Wales centre-back Joe Rodon from Swansea on a five-year deal for an initial £11M plus add-ons.

Rodon, 22, made 54 appearances for the Championship club, having made his Swans debut during the 2018-19 campaign.

He started all three of Wales’

matches during the international break to take his tally to seven caps.

Rodon is Spurs’ seventh signing of the season and he joins compatriots Ben Davies and Gareth Bale, who resigned for Tottenham on loan from Real Madrid.

Rodon’s arrival adds depth to Spurs’ defence, which has seen the departures

of centre-backs Jan Vertonghen to Benfica and Juan Foyth to Villarreal on loan.

Although the transfer window closed on October 5 for Premier League clubs to sign players from abroad, they were allowed to conduct business with Football League teams until 17:00hrs BST yesterday.

Umar Gul retired with 427 international wickets across formats (Getty Images)

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Pakistan fast bowler Umar Gul has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. The 36-year-old, who represented Pakistan in 47 Tests, 130 ODIs and 60 T20Is, made the decision after his side, Balochistan, were eliminated from the National T20 Cup last night against Southern Punjab.

After the game, a visibly emotional Gul thanked his family, coaches and team-mates throughout his career, and was given a guard of honour by both sets of players.

Hailing from Peshawar, a city in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gul began his career on the Under-19 circuit and represented Pakistan in the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup 2002 in New Zealand.

He had played just nine first-class matches when he was called up for the national side after Pakistan’s disastrous performance at the 2003 World Cup that saw both Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis fade away. He played 125 firstclass, 213 List-A and 167 T20 matches, in which he took a total of 987 wickets.

“It has been an honour to represent my club, city, province and country at various levels for two decades,” said Gul after the game. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my cricket, which has taught me the values of hard work, respect, commitment and determination.

“During this journey, I have had the pleasure of meeting numerous people who have helped and supported me in some way. I want to thank all those people as well as my teammates and peers for their support.

“I owe a big thank you to the fans who supported me throughout my journey. They have been an inspiration, especially at times when the going was not great. Lastly, I thank my family for standing firmly behind me throughout my career and helping me to cherish my dreams of not only playing cricket but travelling across the country and globe.

They have sacrificed a lot, while I too have missed their presence and company.

“I now look forward to spending valuable time with them but it will be difficult to stay away from cricket and I now look forward to giving back to the sport and the country that has made me one of the most fortunate people on the planet.”

Gul’s international career spanned from 2003 to 2016, and he retires as a modern great of Pakistan fast-bowling.

He was the leading wicket-taker during Pakistan’s run to the 2007 ICC World T20 final, and also the leading wicket-taker in the 2009 edition, when Pakistan won the trophy.

He spent much of this time ranked atop the T20 rankings in the world, fast developing a reputation as the best yorker bowler in the format. His career best, five for 6 against New Zealand at the World T20 in 2007, was, at the time, the best-ever T20 bowling figures.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, October 17, 2020

Savory lauds CGI for investing in future of Jaguars Franchise Academy

By Clifton Ross

GUYANA Jaguars wicketkeeper Kemol Savory lauded the development of the new LBI facility, dubbing the move by Cricket Guyana Inc. (CGI) as one that guarantees a brighter future for the franchise.

Now among the senior youngsters in the Jaguars Academy, having had his first taste of senior Regional 50 Overs cricket last season; the left-hander told Chronicle Sport that the soon-to-beopened LBI mini-stadium could be the greatest gift given to the players by CGI. “It gives me pride and joy knowing that consideration is given to us especially the young players, by CGI, that they have invested tremendous finances towards developing our talents and preserving our future, by developing this modern facility for the betterment of Guyana’s crick-

et,” the wicketkeeper said.

With players having to be nomads in the past, traversing the city in order to find suitable venues for their training sessions, this new

home, according to the Essequibo Franchise player, will encourage a better practice schedule, with more upgraded amenities suitable for the development of future Jaguars.

“It’s a great move for the new facility at LBI because we, as players, will have more competitive cricket and more time to practise because that will eventually be the play-

Young Guyana Jaguars wicketkeeper/batsman Kemol Savory credited CGI for further investing in the future of the franchise by means of its new multi-purpose facility

GGA to host Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser on October 25

GGA will be hosting a golf fundraiser on October 25, in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

THE Guyana Golf Association (GGA) will be playing its part in the fight against Cancer with a fundraising golf tournament set for October 25 at the Scouts ground in Woolford Avenue.

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, GGA president Aleem Hussain said the event will be geared towards spreading necessary awareness regarding the deadly disease while donating a portion of their proceeds to help battle cancer locally.

Three categories will be contested - Women’s Beginners, Men’s Beginners and Men’s Professionals with G$50 000 and phone credit being among the premier spoils to be won.

The format, according to Hussein, will see golfers needing 10 shots to secure a point with

the top 8 players going to the finals for the final putt-out.

Recently GGA played its part in recognising the teachers during World Teachers Day celebration, donating a number of hampers among other items to some of the teachers.

Hussein said the upcoming event will be no different as it will also play a bigger role outside of sports, by playing its part in the global fight against cancer.

With the support GGA has been receiving of late, the president said he expects the upcoming fundraiser to be overwhelmed by support of the local pro golfers as well as those newbies who are all geared towards the battle against the disease. (Clifton Ross)

ers’ home ground,” Savory pointed out.

The fact that players will now be housed primarily at one venue, which features floodlights and with modernised drainage and irrigation system as meagre pluses, Savory highlighted gelling and team unity as the biggest positives that can come out of this new chapter.

“Being housed at a single facility will help the team to gel and develop camaraderie that will reflect much better in terms of training and our games. Also, it allows us to develop a sense of belonging.

“It is my personal belief that this will open up a great way forward for young upcoming cricketers to hone and develop their skills and to open up a pool of young skilled players to the CGI franchise, he explained.

As for the younger bunch of Jags most of whom have had their taste of playing

for Guyana at the highest levels, Savory was adamant that having a facility with unlimited access will play a huge role in the output of the junior players, who will be more driven to perform and excel when their new home officially opens its doors.

“This is a huge plus for players like myself and who will now make greater effort towards developing my skills.

I no longer see my position as temporary but I’m able to see and develop skills that transcend beyond me just being a player”.

Savory wrapped up his interview by further thanking the academy for paving a future which he can now venture off into a number of cricket-related aspects.

“I can see the CGI through its academy investing in developing my skills to prepare me for life beyond being a player,”he concluded.

Mumbai down KKR (ESPNCRICINFO) - After the Mumbai Indians’ (MI) attack fired in unison to keep Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to 148 for 5, they sauntered to the target with eight wickets and 19 balls to spare in Abu Dhabi to seal their fifth successive victory.

The result set up a twoway tie at the top of the IPL leaderboard with the Delhi Capitals (DC).

Tr e n t B o u l t f o u n d swing with the new ball.

Leg-spinner Rahul Chahar took down both Shubman Gill and Dinesh Karthik off successive balls, and Jasprit Bumrah aced his match-up against Andre Russell, reducing KKR to 61 for 5.

H o w e v e r, P a t C u m mins counter-punched his way to his first T20 half-century and even outscored KKR’s new captain Eoin Morgan in an unbroken 87run partnership off 56 balls.

The late charge gave KKR something to bowl at, but the target looked a whole lot smaller once Rohit Sharma and Quinton de Kock rattled off 51 in the powerplay.

KKR dig themselves into a hole In contrast, KKR scrounged 33 for 2 in their powerplay. Suryakumar

Yadav at backward point pulled off an excellent diving catch to remove Rahul Tripathi for 7 off 9 balls.

A fit-again Nathan Coulter-Nile, who had replaced fellow Australian James Pattinson, then had Nitish Rana glove a lifter behind for 5 off 6 balls.

Gill gulped down ten dots out of the 23 deliveries he faced and holed out for 21, trying to clear long-on.

In the same over, Karthik dragged a sweep back onto his stumps for 4 off 8 balls.

When Bumrah bounced out Russell for 12, KKR were five down in the 11th over.

Cummins pulls them out Morgan, too, started slowly, and was on 23 off 25 balls at the start of the final over of the innings.

Cummins then crunched Coulter-Nile for four to raise a 35-ball fifty. He sized up Coulter-Nile’s on-pace and slower length balls, carting him for 20 off seven balls.

Cummins’ knock could have been cut short at 36 had de Kock not dropped a skier off Bumrah near the short third-man region.

Cummins regularly jumped across off to target the shorter leg-side bound-

aries whenever CoulterNile and Boult missed their lengths. Morgan, too, helped himself to two sixes off Coulter-Nile in the last over to haul the KKR closer to 150.

The Rohit-de Kock show Off-spinner Chris Green, who was picked in place of Tom Banton, took the new ball and found swing with his arm-balls, but his first delivery was too short and wide, with Sharma nonchalantly putting it away for four. It was a portent of what was to follow in the chase.

Sharma then went after seamer Prasidh Krishna, taking him for back-to-back fours in the third over. Morgan then matched up Green with de Kock, and the spinner drew a top edge, but Varun Chakravarthy missed a tough catch running back from short fine leg. de Kock was reprieved on 20. He zoomed to a 25ball fifty - his third in his last four innings - to punish the KKR. Sharma was dismissed for 35 and Suryakumar for 10, but Hardik Pandya (21*) helped apply the finishing touches with three fours and a six.

Paul, Hetmyer return to WI Test squad ahead of New Zealand series

Shimron Hetmyer

PAGE 26

Keemo Paul

Harper expects stacked Test team to perform well against New Zealand PAGE 25

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Cricket West Indies (CWI) head selector Roger Harper

Mumbai down KKR

Quinton de Kock swings down the ground (BCCI)

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2020