Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 21-07-2021 by Guyana Chronicle

WEDNESDAY 21stJuly, 2021

' To all Guyanese, especially to my Muslim brothers and sisters

No.106428

GTU behaving like a political entity PAGE

–– union should not be used for political biddings, Manickchand urges teachers

PSC: Employees of businesses 05 must be vaccinated Women empowerment project launched in Region 10 09 PAGE

Guyana accredits first female British High Commissioner

PAGE

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, accepts the Letters of Credence from new British High Commissioner to Guyana, Mrs. Jane Miller (Office of the President photo)

Coalition commissioners dodge motions to 10 fire Lowenfield, others PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

GTU behaving like a political entity –– union should not be used to do the biddings of the Coalition, Manickchand urges teachers By Rehana Ahamad

EDUCATION Minister, Priya Manickchand has called on teachers throughout Guyana to ensure that their legitimate concerns are effectively represented by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) in a manner that is apolitical and in their best interest. “If the Union is going to be made into another political entity, an arm of the APNU+AFC, then they can’t represent anyone, and teachers and their members should insist that they not be taken down that political path,” minister Manickchand told a news conference on Tuesday. She was at the time responding to the concerns raised at a protest hosted earlier in the day by some members of the GTU, including its General-Secretary, Coretta McDonald, who is also a Member of Parliament for the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) opposition. Reflecting on the handful of issues highlighted at the protest, Minister Manickchand concluded that not a single issue that was raised warranted a protest. “There was no reason for the protest; these issues are on the table, and we are addressing them. So, today’s protest, for me, is nothing but a response to Coretta’s hurt feelings, and that can’t be the way we treat

Education Minister, Priya Manickchand a professional union,” the minister insisted. Manickchand said that had a “sensible issue” been raised, the Ministry of Education would have been happy to address it. In responding to each of the highlighted “issues”, Manickchand pointed to the fact that since assuming office in August 2020, she and her team at the Ministry of Education have been in constant engagement with the GTU to address matters relating to the well-being and development of teachers all across Guyana. As it relates to claims of inadequate consultation, especially at the level of the Regional Education Officers (REDOs), the Education Minister said that she herself had spoken to each of the REDOs to determine that

the accusations were untrue. As a matter of fact, she said that in some instances, the GTU was repeatedly invited to the regional engagements, but failed to attend. This was the case for all of the regions, with the exception of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). Manickchand related that regrettably, the regional authorities there have admitted to failing to formally invite the GTU representatives to the meetings. Notwithstanding this, it was noted that representatives of the body, including its President, Mark Lyte, are usually in attendance as regional educators. The Region Six REDO has since committed to ensuring that formal invitations are sent to the GTU going forward. NO-SHOW Manickchand related even beyond the regional level, the GTU has been a no-show. “We also know that two weeks ago, the union was invited to be part of the teachers’ appraisal, and they refused to come. We sent a list of all circulars to the GTU to ask them what they thought of it, and we haven’t gotten an answer,” the minister highlighted. She said, pointedly, that the GTU’s concerns relating to inadequate consultations are unfounded, since the ministry and its of-

ficers have been doing their part to reach out to the GTU. More specifically, Manickchand said that while the former APNU+AFC Government had only engaged the union four times during its five years in office, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) administration had moved to ensure that an almost statutory forum was created. Manickchand said that she met with the union at least six times within the last few months.

GTU General-Secretary and APNU+AFC Member of Parliament, Coretta McDonald “And on every occasion, we have had what I thought, and what the union said, were productive meetings,” Manickchand posited. She noted, however, that the last few times, the union had opted out of the meetings. “I thought at the time, and

I still hope that those were genuine postponements, and an issue wasn’t being created,” the minister noted, pointing to the fact that efforts were even made to change the dates of the meeting to accommodate the schedule of the GTU representatives. Based on the previous meetings, evidence of which were highlight Manickchand also rubbished claims that the GTU was not consulted prior to the decision taken to host the National Grade Six Assessment. “It was the teachers that asked us to put the exams date at the fourth and fifth of August; we did what the teachers wanted, so that, again, is a non-issue,” Manickchand said. She also responded to the placards which complained about teachers having not been paid. In explaining the situation, Manickchand said that the teachers have outstanding uniform allowances dating back to 2019 under the APNU+AFC Government. She indicated that the PPP/C administration has already issued a correspondence committing to paying the teachers for 2021 and 2021. “The GTU is aware of this,” the minister posited. She also responded to McDonald’s concerns relating to the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant, and the issuance of $19,000 to the parents/guardians of each of

the 172,000 children in the public school system. “We do not hold Ms. McDonald’s dictatorial view that we must decide, or we must have her decide how this money must be spent,” Manickchand asserted. ACT POLITICAL, TREATED AS POLITICAL She said that over the past few months, her ministry has “bent over backwards” to establish a cordial and professional relationship with the GTU; however, Manickchand warned that if the union is going to continue its political operations, then it will be addressed by the government in that manner. “The PPP/C as a party and as a government has never shied away from dealing politically with political organisation… we are happy to engage the union as a professional union, but if it becomes a political entity, and frankly this is how it is shaping up, then we will engage it as a political entity,” Manickchand cautioned. Manickchand went further to accuse the APNU+AFC’s Coretta McDonald of using her position as an executive of the GTU, to push the agenda of the Opposition, as opposed to putting the needs and concerns of teachers first.

2,600 pupils were missing from first mock exams –– says Manickchand, underscores importance of vaccination in restarting physical learning

DURING the first day of the June 2021 mock examinations for the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), some 2,600 pupils were missing. This confirmation was given by Education Minister, Priya Manickchand who underscored the need for children to return to the physical classrooms as early as possible. “We are personally, individual by individual, tracking them down to bring them back into the school system,” Manickchand told a virtual news conference on Tuesday. Responding to questions

relating to the planned reopening of physical learning in September, Manickchand said that this remains a mere intention, but a policy decision is yet to be taken on the issue. Manickchand said that even if schools are not reopened to physical learning, virtual classes will commence from September 6, when the new school year begins. The minister said that even though the emergence of the coronavirus resulted in the closure of schools in March 2021, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government has embarked aggressively on

FLASHBACK: Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, sitting through an English B lesson with students of Queen’s College in their smart classroom (DPI photo) securing enough vaccines to immunise the entire adult

population, thereby achieving herd immunity and mak-

ing it safe for children to return to their schools. “We could stop the spread if we wanted to,” Minister Manickchand said, as she pointed to the hesitance and low uptake of the vaccines in certain areas. She emphasised that parents need to see themselves as a shield, protecting their children against the deadly virus. Manickchand also pointed to the responsibility that Guyanese adults have in creating a safe space for children to learn and grow. “All the reports around the world… anyone who has studied this, [would report] that the longer you stay out

of school, the more likely you are to suffer from learning loss… and the more likely they are to suffer from premature school leaving, that is drop out; the phenomenon of dropout,” minister Manickchand said. She also highlighted the mandatory vaccination measures being put in place by other countries, making specific reference to China, where children cannot attend schools if their parents are not vaccinated. “I have personally taken both doses [of the vaccines]. Everybody I love have taken the vaccine,” Manickchand shared.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Guyana accredits first female British High Commissioner –– strengthening partnership between Guyana, UK discussed

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Tuesday, accepted the Letters of Credence from Mrs. Jane Million (OBE), accrediting her as High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Great Britain to Guyana. In accepting the Letters of Credence, President Ali welcomed Mrs Miller, the first female British High Commissioner to Guyana, and stated that the countries have long-standing ties of history and share similar values for the respect of human rights and democracy. He said that since attaining Independence in 1966, Guyana has shared a strong relationship with Great Britain. Further, President Ali credited the European nation for being “unwavering in its support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.” The President, in his

remarks, commended the United Kingdom UK for its role last year in defending Guyana’s democracy. “I must once again restate the sincere appreciation of my government for the role which the United Kingdom played last year with its principled stand for the preservation of Guyana’s democracy during the impasse in the announcement of the results of our General and Regional Elections. My administration is committed to sustaining democratic rule in Guyana,” President Ali said. The President said the UK has been supportive of Guyana’s development efforts through numerous programmes of co-operation, including debt relief, education, water supply, restructuring of the sugar industry, public sector reform and strengthening of the judiciary and law enforce-

Wednesday July 21, 2021 –– 02:30hrs - 04:00hrs

ment agencies. He also applauded its continued support of Guyana’s economic development, including its assistance to strengthen the country’s infrastructure. “I assure you that Guyana is deeply committed to continued collaboration for the progress of both of our peoples,” President Ali said. Similar sentiments were expressed by the new High Commissioner, who noted that the link between the two countries is strong and will be further strengthened to the benefits of both countries during her time in office. High Commissioner Miller acknowledged President Ali’s stance on climate change and said that this topic was also at the forefront of the agenda of the Prime Minister of the UK, Boris Johnson. She applauded the President for his efforts in 2021 on climate change,

including the signing of both the Leaders’ Pledge for Nature and the Global Ocean’s Alliance. “Both of these are key milestones, as we work together on sustainable options for a cleaner and safer environment for our children,” the High Commissioner said. President Ali said that it was important to work together to seize the opportunity to match political will with action in the fight against climate change. He said that he was confident that the 26th UN Climate Change Conference, to be hosted in Glasgow in November, will give greater consideration to the concerns of small-island developing states and low-lying coastal states. “This conference represents a watershed moment for the discussions on climate change,” the Head of State said. Guyana, he noted, is

taking meaningful action to contribute to global efforts to address “this existential crisis”. “My government has advanced its work to revitalise our Low Carbon Development Strategy. Guyana’s future actions in this area will place great emphasis on the protection of our environment, the preservation of our biodiversity and the promotion of renewable energy and measures to ensure climate adaptation,” President Ali related. High Commissioner Miller said she was delighted by some of the British-financed programmes, including the

SMART Hospital Initiative. She also applauded the President for his “determined effort to roll out vaccines across the country” in the fight against COVID-19 and on him applying to join the Media Freedom Coalition. Also present at Tuesday’s meeting were Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Elisabeth Harper; Mrs. Miller’s husband and daughter, and the Deputy British High Commissioner, Ray Davidson.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Employees of businesses must –– Private Sector Commission urges be vaccinated AS Guyana’s coronavirus cases continues to climb, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) has issued a strong statement calling for its member companies to require vaccination of its employees. “The Private Sector Commission embraces and recommends that its member companies require that all those of its employees who refuse to be vaccinated must provide evidence of a medically current COVID-19 negative test from infection before reporting to work, while continuing to encourage all of its employees to become vaccinated,” the statement read. Further, the PSC urged that the government makes it mandatory for all medical and security personnel in frontline contact with

other persons to either be vaccinated or provide evidence of a medically-current COVID-19 negative test. “… and that all places providing hospitality and entertainment services, including restaurants, require evidence of either vaccination or a medically-current COVID-19 negative test from its customers in order for them to receive service,” the PSC added. The grouping of reputable businesses premised its call on the “growing cases of COVID-19 infections and deaths, all of which involve persons who are not fully vaccinated”. The PSC also lauded the government’s “sterling efforts to obtain vaccinations for our people in an effort to achieve herd immunity for the nation”. As it is, Guyana is one

The PSC embraces the opinion that “individual rights do not override the collective right of the community when the community as a whole is threatened”.

of the very few countries that have managed to secure enough vaccines to inoculate its entire adult population. Notwithstanding this feat, there are sections of Guyanese who remain reluctant to take the vaccines. Also putting a bit of a damper on the government’s intense vaccination programme were utterances by members of the opposition, including the Opposition Leader himself, Joseph Harmon. After becoming fully vaccinated with the Sputnik V vaccine, from Russia, Harmon had called for a suspension of the administering of the vaccine, claiming it to be fake. Those claims were later put to rest following an official response from the vaccine’s manufacturer, detailing the details of the ‘jabs’ supplied to Guyana. However, as was recognised by former Speaker of the National Assembly, Ralph Ramkarran, “The harm of vaccine politics will be incalculable.” INCALCULABLE The attorney-at-law had reasoned that “Those reluctant Guyanese who were persuaded to enter the vaccine compound will rush out and those who could have been persuaded to do so, will remain outside, watching the sparks fly.” In cementing its call for more stringent efforts to promote vaccination, the PSC pointed to the measures being taken by countries such as France

and Belize, which have determined that “Those who refuse to be vaccinated are putting the rest of the population at risk.” Moreover, the PSC said that it endorses the position taken by the Adviser to the Minister of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, who maintained that “if you want to exercise a right to not take the vaccine [then] you must be prepared to face the consequences”. Dr. Ramsammy, a medical practitioner and a former Health Minister, had indicated that “while someone has the right to refuse the vaccine, those persons do not have a right to expose the rest of us to their reckless risks.” The Commission said too that it has also taken note of the fact that there is extensive and growing judicial opinion within the Caribbean and the international community that “individual rights do not override the collective right of the community when the community as a whole is threatened”. Ever since the coronavirus began its global rampage in 2020, the vaccines have been hailed as the only means by which the world can exit the current pandemic which has taken millions of lives, and continues to threaten the lives of those who have not been vaccinated. Although the vaccines do not guard against the virus in its entirety, it provides enough antibodies to guard against severe symptoms and death. In Guyana, no vaccinated persons have

The PSC also wants companies to reserve the right to only serve those who are vaccinated been hospitalised or have sures to push vaccination, died due to the virus. it continues to ramp up its The country’s death toll vaccination capacity. Efcurrently stands at 512, forts have also been made and unfortunately, still to extend vaccination hours counting. well into the nights. Health Minister, Dr. READY AND Frank Anthony, had also WILLING encouraged Guyanese to In light of the deadly take the vaccines now, effects of not being vacci- since possibility exists that nated, the Private Sector it could possibly become Commission said that a costly commodity, due it is “ready and willing to its demand and proven to support all and any efficacy. So far, Guyana action taken by our gov- has been administering the ernment that will serve Sputnik V vaccine, Sinoto protect our population pharm, the AstraZeneca. from the surge of this The People’s Progrespandemic, inclusive of a sive Party/Civic governcomprehensive policy to ment is also working asbe ‘gazetted’, which will siduously to secure the ensure that vaccinated United States’ Pfizer vaccitizens are protected cine, which is the only one against exposure from approved for children. those who exercise the President Dr. Irfaan freedom to refuse to be Ali had assured that once vaccinated”. Guyana is able to secure Although the Guyana such vaccines, immunisgovernment has not in- ing the country’s children troduced any strict mea- will be priority.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Tajeram Mohabir

Eid-ul-Adha reflects all of us

EID-ul-Adha is a very sacred occasion for Muslims across the world. Being observed during The Hajj, it speaks to selfless sacrifice for spiritual upliftment, and the advancement of all Mankind. It also epitomises generosity and equality as traits for the strengthening of bonds, which are important in the quest for universal peace. Guyana is a multifaceted society in which its diversity has proven to be its strength. With unfettered and enshrined freedom of worship, all of the religions practised, and through their respective national festivals teach similar messages of peace, togetherness and advancement both spiritually and as a nation. All provide invaluable sources of inspiration to guide and to imbue with hope. These teachings are embedded in our being and are evident in our actions. In many ways, this has led to Guyanese being fondly referred to as extremely hospitable and generous. As a people, we are also known for our steadfastness and resourcefulness that would have resulted from our individual and collective faith and a desire for better lives.

Over time, our people and country were tested, and through unwavering resolve, we overcame those challenges, and fortified our resoluteness in the process. That could not have been achieved without sacrifices, as our history would underscore. With many of our fore-parents coming from various parts of the world, and having to endure unimaginable challenges and undesirable conditions, our presence today is testimony to their sacrifices, and that of subsequent generations. Even in these modern times, sacrifices continue to be made. Currently, many are affected by the impact of severe flooding and its aftermath in various areas. Sacrifices in those circumstances are unavoidable, and in a national effort to help mitigate the impact, the government’s timely response to provide relief has been welcomed and effective. Those efforts were augmented by the generosity of other Guyanese, either individually, or through organisations and companies. That was not the first time such na-

tional efforts would have become necessary and undertaken. The flood situation of 2005 and in other instances come to mind. It is also not confined to just within our borders, as evidenced by the most recent efforts to assist residents affected by the volcano in St. Vincent and the Grenadines other such endeavours in the past to other sister CARICOM nations. In all of those instances, it wasn’t just the wealthy that gave, but many ordinary citizens offered what they could in the true spirt of wanting to help others. That, in itself, speaks to sacrifice in the interest of others. Just over a year ago, our country experienced a very dark chapter, when democracy was under siege, and our freedoms severely threatened by the then coalition government, through their glaring attempts to subvert the will of the Guyanese people following the March 2, 2020 elections. That was an extremely turbulent and testing period, when uncertainty and fear pervaded. In the end, after relentless struggles, the truth prevailed. It was again demonstrative of that ingrained and irrefutable resolve of Guyanese to

not just safeguard hard-fought freedoms, but to ensure that efforts for individual and collective advancement would not be compromised, despite the tremendous difficulties. That is the epitome of sacrifices, and has been characteristic of our people, over time, as inspired by our fore-parents and the teachings of our various religions. Here, in Guyana, all have learnt from each other, and it is customary that we participate in each other’s festivals. As sacred sacrifices will be made today, the sacrificial meat will be shared with many others across the country, in keeping with tradition and efforts to foster relationships in this enviable multicultural, multi-religious and multi-ethnic society. It will not just be the manifestation of what Eid-ul-Adah represents, but a reflection of our collective religious teachings, and what defines us as Guyanese. With a history of being able and willing to make sacrifices, and a trait of generosity to be envied, this sacred day of Eid-ul-Adha, in many ways, reflects all of us.

Private-schoolers should also benefit from ‘Because We Care’ grant

Dear Editor,

I HAVE been conducting an opinion survey in Guyana to solicit the public’s views on various contemporary issues. One of the issues is on the educational grant for students. Only students in government schools are eligible to receive the grant, but the public feels private school students should also receive the grant, as many parents are experiencing financial difficulties in affording to send their children to school during the pandemic; many parents have lost their jobs over the last few years. The public is grateful for the grant; they thank President Ali, Minister Priya Manickchand, and the rest of the members of the government for restoring the grant that was cut off by the APNU-led coalition in 2015. There is overwhelming approval for the educational grant to public school students across all sections (ethnicities, communities, classes, political affiliation, and educators) of the society. The public disagrees with the position taken by the teachers’ union

head on the role of educators in the distribution of the grant. The survey is ongoing to solicit opinion to rate the government as it marks its first- year anniversary since the election of President Irfaan Ali. Based on the findings of the survey, no one opposes the educational grant for students in public schools, although some respondents feel it is not enough. Respondents also say that students of wealthy families don’t need the money, and that it should be given based on a needs test. Opinion is mixed on giving the grant to students of private schools. Respondents say that some students of private schools are economically well off, and do not need the educational grant. However, it is noted that many students in private schools come from less privileged financial background, and parents are struggling to fund their kids; they deserve and need the grant. Parents of students in private schools as well as educators in those schools overwhelmingly support giving the grant to them.

In the US, government’s educational benefits and grants are extended to private schools. Parents of students in private schools, including religious schools, had challenged government policy in court to deny them benefits. Lower courts had ruled in favour of the government. The US Supreme Court ruled in favour of the parents. When I studied US constitutional law, decades ago, there were several court rulings in which the court explained that the private schools (including religious schools) were not the beneficiaries of the grants, and that there was no co-mingling of the State and religion when the government doled out benefits to students in private or religious schools. The Supreme Court explained that the students and their families were the beneficiaries of grants; not the religious institutions. In the US, students of religious or private schools get free text books, meals, and transportation to and from schools. Meals and transport passes are based on a needs test. All students are eligible for free books. Government also sends teachers to private or religious

schools to assist low-performing students. In recent years, students received free laptops or ipad computers. It is the view that government should consider extending the educational grant to students of private schools; if not to all students, those deserving should receive the grant, based on some kind of needs test. Since Vice-President Jagdeo made an announcement on a social media interview on Saturday, parents of students in private school that I have conversed with have been very supportive. Also, the public in general feel that the government should extend the educational grant to these students. Parents of kids in private school can easily pull their kids from private schools and register them in public schools; government will have to pay the grant to them. This will burden government schools. It is cheaper to simply extend the grant to students of all schools. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Brigadier Gary Beaton retires, describes journey as fulfilling

BRIGADIER (Ret’d) Gary Beaton was the Guest of Honour when Chief-of-Staff (ag), Brigadier Godfrey Bess and the Officer Corps hosted the

this year following 36 years of service. He has received a total of six military awards during his enlistment, namely Border Defence,

sion, Brigadier Beaton reflected on his military journey, which he called both enjoyable and fulfilling. He credited his current stature to the tough deci-

Chief-of-Staff (ag), Brigadier Godfrey Bess (left) presenting Brigadier (Ret’d) Gary Beaton with a token of appreciation for his long and dedicated service to the GDF traditional Dining Out at Base Camp Ayanganna’s Officers’ Mess on the evening of July 15, 2021. Brigadier Beaton retired from active duty in March

Military Efficiency Medal (MEM), 25th 40th and 50th Anniversary Medals and the Military Service Medal (MSM). In remarks on the occa-

sions and situations he’s had to make and deal with over the years, along with his various interactions and experiences with his seniors, peers and juniors.

Motorcycle bandits rob pensioner A pensioner was, on Tuesday morning, attacked and robbed by four motorcycle bandits, two of whom were armed with guns, while he was walking along Freeman Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown. The 63-year-old man was robbed of cash, a Samsung tablet, a cellular

phone and a quantity of documents. Reports indicate that the man was heading home when he was attacked by the bandits who approached on two motorcycles. Police said that both pillion riders dismounted their respective motorcycles and held the victim

at gunpoint but he resisted. This, police said, caused one of the bandits to lash the man to the face with his gun. The perpetrator then discharged a shot in the air while another bandit relieved the man of his valuables. Police are investigating the incident.

Armed bandits rob Recht-Door-Zee family TWO bandits invaded the home of a family of Recht-Door-Zee, West Bank Demerara (WBD), and robbed them of cash and jewellery on Monday. During the confrontation, one of the suspects shot one of the victims in the leg, before they both made good their escape in a waiting vehicle.

The victim was rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital at Leonora, where he is currently receiving medical treatment. Police said that the family was robbed of $200,000 in cash, a quantity of gold jewellery, including wedding bands, and electronic items.

Love is sacrifice Dear Editor, ON the auspicious occasion of Eid-al-Adha, Muslims remember and honour the trials and triumphs of Prophet Ibraham/Abraham (Peace Be Upon Him). Additionally, we recognise that all blessings come from God, and that we should open our hearts and share these bounties he has bestowed upon us with others. As Muslims across the globe celebrate and honour this historic willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his beloved son for the sake of Almighty Allah, we, the Guyana Islamic Forum for Education, Peace and Religious Solidarity, the Electric Mosque’s Presentation of the Teachings of Islam, in association with the Universal Peace Federation – Guyana, seize this opportunity to extend Eid-al-Adha greetings to the nation of Guyana, His Excellency, President Dr. Irfaan Ali and family, distinguished Members of the Government, the Opposition, and especially to our fellow Muslim brothers and sisters. It must be known that the practice of sacrificing an animal on this occasion has nothing to do with atoning for sins, or cleansing ourselves of sin with its blood. This symbolic act represents our readiness to forego some of our own blessings in order to develop and maintain our relationship with God, with others, and, most importantly, to provide a helping hand to the poor and needy. As a result, the meat from the Eid-al-Adha sacrifice is distributed in three ways: To oneself, to relatives, and to the needy. It is a gesture of

humanity to share with those in need who do not have the same access to nourishment as we do. What we truly need to grasp is that in order to offer sacrifices to the Almighty, we must symbolically go to the same lengths as Prophet Abraham; that is to say, sacrificing an animal alone is insufficient, as Almighty God says, “Never does their flesh or blood reach Allah, but your piety successfully reaches him.” (Quran – 22:37). In light of the forgoing, we encourage everyone to use this opportunity to open their hearts and minds, and to learn to uphold the noble ideals of unwavering service to Almighty God, and humanity in general. We pray that this Eid-al-Adha will deepen our relationship with others, foster harmony, as well as provide peace, prosperity, and well-being to the people of Guyana and throughout the world, especially as we are once again forced to celebrate this festivity in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. We pray that our selfless sacrifices will bring happiness into our lives and provide salvation for us in the hereafter. Our prayers are also with all those who may be unable to celebrate this occasion with proper revelry due to poverty or other afflictions at this time. We hope that the spirit of Eid-al-Adha – bonding, sharing, harmony, love, togetherness, and peace – will embrace us all. Eid-al-Adha Mubarak! Yours sincerely, Hajji Dr. Roshan Khan Snr.

Chronicle diversifying news content

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

–– releases second edition of Quarterly Magazine

TRADITIONAL news reporting has been the mandate of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL) from time immemorial, but with changing times and the need for diversification, the company has taken steps to be attuned with readers. Through a coordinated approach and a collective effort, the team at GNNL has so far produced two quarterly magazines, capturing events, activities and issues related to business and development from the first half of this year. The main aim of this special publication, as has been the agenda of the traditional newspaper in recent times, is to change the preconceived notion that the Guyana Chronicle focuses wholly on political issues by in-

corporating national development and human interest stories. Apart from being a reflection of what would have occurred in the quarter preceding the publication of the magazine, the publication captures current affairs and plans that are yet to be executed, and also includes a small business directory. Copies of the second edition of the Chronicle Quarterly Magazine were shared with Minister of Tourism Industry of Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, and Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Paul Cheong on Tuesday. Both Walrond and Cheong spoke of the rich content of the magazine, and commended the team for a job well done.

PSC Chairman Paul Cheong being presented with copies of the Chronicle Quarterly Magazine by Assistant Editor Navendra Seoraj, while GNNL’s Marketing Manager, Rishma Ajodha and Marketing Coordinator, Beverley Barrow look on

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, receives copies of the Chronicle Quarterly Magazine from Editor-in-Chief of the Guyana Chronicle, Tajeram Mohabir. Also in the photo are Assistant Editor at the Guyana Chronicle, Navendra Seoraj, and Reporter Jared Liddell

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Region 10 kicks off first REAP project

THE Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Ten, under its Regional Economic Advancement Partnership (REAP) programme, on Tuesday launched its first project with the start of an internship for women interested in learning dress-making. According to Regional

Chairman Deron Adams, the REAP effort seeks to empower women across the region, by supporting their attempts to become independent and to support their families. He said that under the REAP programme, a series of projects will be held to teach women entrepreneurial and life skills, even as

the region pushes for the reactivation of the Linden Enterprise Network (LEN) loans to provide funding through micro-loans to start businesses. “The Regional Economic Advancement Partnership,” he said, “will seek many similar opportunities to empower both men and women, including youths,

A participant practising the art of dress-making

One of the participants using a sewing machine during a dress-making class

to move their efforts into areas that could provide a sustainable income through training for involvement in micro-enterprises, with the support of private sector and individual partnerships like this one.” According to Adams, another important facet of the programme is to encourage skilled personnel and seniors to donate their time and expertise to these training efforts, “as we pool our efforts to address unemployment, under-employment and poverty in our region, and impact positively on the lives of those who need this type of input the most.” Adams has also expressed optimism that the persons being trained could secure contracts to supply the government’s school uniform project in Region 10, once they would have mastered the skill. He also called for future collaborations with persons interested in supporting the REAP programme and other similar projects in the region.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Coalition commissioners dodge motions to fire Lowenfield, others

THE three Opposition members of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) have once again walked out of a meeting hosted to discuss the removal of three officers from the constitutional agency. “When the issue came up, the Opposition said they are not going to participate,” explained Sase Gunraj, one of the three government representatives on the Com-

mission. It was Gunraj, along with his colleagues, Bibi Shadick and Manoj Narayan, who piloted motions seeking to remove the Commission’s Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield; his deputy, Roxanne Myers, and Region Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo, all of whom were accused of electoral fraud, and trying to rig the March 2020 elections in favour of the

GECOM Commissioner, Sase Gunraj

Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Roxanne Myers

Returning Officer for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Clairmont Mingo (left) and Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield

A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC). When the motions were called, the APNU+AFC commissioners walked out of the meeting. “We are accustomed to them doing this kind of nonsense now; the nation has gotten used to it,” Gunraj said. He noted, however, that notwithstanding the existing bottleneck, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)

Commissioners will be exhausting all legal avenues at their disposal to ensure that the motions are heard and deliberated on. With the three Opposition Commissioners and the three Government Commissioners, the determining vote for the motions rests on the shoulders of the GECOM Chairwoman, Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh. The GECOM trio came in for harsh criticism from

the public at large for their alleged conduct during the aforementioned elections, and its recount. They have since been charged, and are currently before the courts. Lowenfield is faced with three counts of Misconduct in Public Office, and three counts of Forgery, while Mingo was charged with four counts of Misconduct in Public Office, and Myers with two counts of Misconduct in Public Office.

National flag to be flown at half-staff on Friday THE national flag will be flown at half-staff on Friday, the day of the funeral of late President of Haiti, Jovenel Moïse, in keeping with Proclamation No. 2 of 2021, issued on July 7, 2021 by President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali The national flag must be flown at half-staff in solidarity with the government and people of Haiti as they bid final farewell to their late President. President Moïse was assassinated in the early hours of Wednesday, July 7, at his home.

Late President of Haiti, Jovenel Moïse

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Walkway commissioned in honour of acting top cop

A “state-of-the-art” footpath, leading into the Leonora Police Station, was recently commissioned the “Nigel Hoppie Walkway” in honour of Commissioner of Police (ag) Nigel Hoppie. This was done as part of a series of events to celebrate the 182nd anniversary of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). The symbolic ribbon was cut by Hoppie himself, and a plaque designated in his honour was unveiled by him as well. Commander of Regional Division Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Errol Watts, noted that with the reduction in crime—including an impressive 18.7 per cent reduction in serious crimes for the second quarter as compared to the same period in 2020, under the leadership of the acting COP, and the reform which the GPF has been undergoing, the ranks of Region Three came to the consensus that Hoppie deserved to be hailed for his remarkable efforts. “I looked at the library, and I see there’s a former commissioner’s name on the library, and I know our commissioner deserves to be recognised. So, with the consensus of all the ranks in Region Three, we have decided that our stateof-the-art walkway will be named after a respected individual, a Commissioner of Police, a qualified individual,

and a man of Region Three,” he said. Serious crimes cover a wide range of criminal activities, among them violent crimes, drug-related offences, and criminal charges involving death or serious bodily harm to the victim, especially drunk-driving matters. In terms of the crime situation for the year thus far, it was reported that there has been a significant decline in robbery under arms, by as much as 36.3 per cent. Murder is also down, but just marginally, at 16.7 per cent, from 78 per cent around this time last year to 65 per cent. And, surprisingly, of that number, just seven of the victims were women, which is a significant improvement on the 20 that were killed at the end of June last year. On the downside, however, six of those seven women were killed during domestic-related incidents. Also present at the unveiling and commissioning were members of the COPS in Faith; Regional Education Officer, Devendra Persaud; Regional Health Officer, Erica Forte; junior and senior ranks of the Guyana Police Force, scouts, members of the station management committee and special invites. The acting Commissioner also visited the accommodation of the Special Joint

The ‘Nigel Hoppie Walkway’ (Carl Croker photo)

Services Unit which comprises seven policemen and six soldiers and is located at Leonora. While at the location, he was fully briefed on the unit’s operation by 2nd Lieutenant Tobin of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

Commissioner of Police (ag), Nigel Hoppie (centre), with Commander of Regional Division Three, Errol Watts (second left), and members of the Leonora Scout Group (Carl Croker photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

‘Eid-ul-Adha reminds us of the importance of kindness and faith’

–– President Ali

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali said that Eidul-Adha, the ‘Festival of Sacrifice’, reminds us of the importance of being supportive to others and faith during trying times. The Head of State made this statement while delivering a virtual Eidul-Adha message to the International Muslim Organisation (IMO) of Toronto. He said that the celebration recalls the unconditional trust of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his full and total submission to Allah, while it also is an opportunity for all believers to draw closer to Allah, and through acts of kindness and concerns to

President, Dr Irfaan Ali draw closer to humanity. President Ali said he was particularly touched by the efforts of the IMO for its donations towards the flood relief efforts in Guyana. “The recent floods have inflicted widespread damage and destruction across Guyana. We remain grateful for the support, and kind intentions from friends and well-wishers, and indeed our brothers and sisters in Canada.” He also thanked the IMO for its support in other social programmes that have benefitted the less fortunate. “These are values and principles of the IMO that we, as a government, share, and we as a Government would work with you in promoting and supporting.” The Head of State emphasised that even though the festival is being observed in unusual circumstances due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it must be done in compliance with the recommended protocols. “Responsibility is also a fundamental virtue of Islam. Eid invites us to become exemplary embodiments of the truth which we profess and reminds us

of the virtue of sacrificing some of our own comforts for the benefit of others,” he said. President Ali also urged the gathering to ensure that they are vaccinated, and to take the necessary steps to protect their families and communities. The President noted that Guyana is at the point of transformation, which comes with greater responsibility for the country to support the cause of other nations and their peoples, to ensure that the world proceeds in a direction in which the environment is sustained. He added: “This is also important as Muslims; we have a responsibility to protect our environment, we have a responsibility to safeguard the environment, we have a responsibility to act justly in every sphere of life and protecting the environment is an important aspect of living.” The IMO members were also thanked for supporting democracy during the impasse in the announcement of the results of the 2020 general and regional elections. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

‘We understand the importance of agriculture’ –– Minister Mustapha tells St. Cuthbert’s Mission residents

–– community to benefit from shadehouse, other incentives to boost agriculture

AGRICULTURE Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Tuesday, upheld the government’s position on agriculture in Guyana when he told residents from St. Cuthbert’s Mission that the PPP/C administration understands the importance of agriculture. Minister Mustapha was at the time leading a team of officials from the Ministry of Agriculture on an outreach to the village after the village’s toshao, Timothy Andrews made requests for a visit. He told villagers that since taking office, the government has implemented several measures that have benefitted thousands of families across the country. “Over the last 11 months, we’ve implemented a number of measures that have benefitted Guyanese from all parts of the country. We’ve removed VAT from a number of commodities, increased old-age pension, implemented subsidies for pensioners, and re-introduced and increased the ‘cash grant’ for school-aged children in the public school system that was stopped by the previous government. We didn’t have to take loans, monies from other sectors, or funds from the oil and gas earnings. We were

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha One farmer, who cultiable to do this because this government does not engage vates coconut and cassava, in squandermania, wastage of said he lost a large percentfunds, or corruption. Those age of what he planted. He also said in order to monies are now going to the people of this country,” Min- save his remaining cultivation, he would need assisister Mustapha said. Farmers who were pres- tance in the form of chement at the meeting told the icals. “During the flood, 95 per minister that like many other persons across the coun- cent of my farm was undertry, they too were severely water. Fast forward to now, affected by the recent flood- today my coconut trees look ing and sought assistance like they had a flu. I would from the government with need some things like monocrotophos for the coconut returning to the land. trees, fertilisers, chemicals for pests and so. Between LOSS

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, while handing over the items to the villagers

the coconut trees, I planted cassava. All the bitter cassava was submerged. I planed roughly 2000 bitter and sweet together,” the farmer explained. Another farmer present at the meeting said that in order for farmers in the village to get into serious farming, they would need advice on what to plant based on the different soil types in the farming areas. “We want to take farming seriously. I heard the minister talk about being the breadbasket of the Caribbean. As farmers, we need more advice on how to get farming done in terms of the kind of things that we need to plant.

In places like this, traditionally, we do cassava, coconuts, and things like that, but when we are talking about farming, we are talking about a variety of produce that can be exported. That’s what we need advice on. First of all, the soil. What can we plant in this soil? We need people to do soil tests so that we can know what produce can be planted where because I notice in different locations in this village, there are different types of soil and if people really want to get into farming, they need to know what they can plant,” the farmer said. Other farmers also appealed to Minister Mustapha for improved drainage

and irrigation, better farmto-market access roads, markets for their produce, better utility services, and assistance with accessing firearms to protect their farms from wild animals that usually destroy their crops. ASSISTANCE Minister Mustapha also assured the farmers that the government will work to ensure they have the necessary assistance to return to the lands. “In communities like this, the main activity is usually agriculture, and See page 15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

$12M in grants disbursed through Green Business Tech Fund

THE Small Business Bureau (SBB), on Tuesday, presented 12 persons a total of $12 million through its Green Tech Fund. The beneficiaries each received $1 million at a ceremony held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal. Launched in 2017, the SBB’s Green Business Technology Fund is geared towards encouraging the implementation of businesses that incorporate fundamentals of the Green State Development Strategy. Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, congratulated the 12 recipients, noting that it was a competitive selection process

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond, along with the 12 awardees (DPI photo)

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond, engaging awardees (DPI photo) where awardees were selected based on the most practical, sustainable and innovative ideas.

“The idea is that you should use this financial support as a platform for business expansion so the

years to come you will be in a position to contribute to increase in employment and economic growth in our country.” She said the SBB sets aside $12 million each year to address the effects of climate change. “It’s important that all of us play an integral role in mitigating the effects of this global phenomenon. Guyana, in spite of our small size, is among the leaders in sustainable development through the introduction of the Low Carbon Development Strategy.” She said the Government wants more Guyanese to develop business ideas that are aligned with the Low Carbon Development Strategy. Meanwhile, SBB’s Dep-

uty Chief Executive Officer, Vanessa Thompson, said the Green Business Technology Fund is an annual competition facilitated by the entity. It aims to support development of innovative green businesses, ideas and solutions, including market research, development and testing of new products, software, and business processes. “The Green Business Technology Fund as we heard earlier is in its fourth year and, to date, we have disbursed $33.8 million to 34 awardees from the previous years. Today, another 12 awardees will receive their grants of $1 million to support development of innovative small businesses.” Awardee, Lemuel Wil-

liams, expressed gratitude to SBB for helping his Vehicular Global Positioning System (GPS) Tracker project. “Hopefully with this solution here at the end of it all, we can have, Guyana can have a product that is being made locally that can solve this problem and at the same time be as effective as possible and will utilise our local networks so that we do not have to worry about internet access or any of those complicated issues.” Nehru Narine also shared his project idea that is focused on food security and food sustainability, utilising modern techniques as it is important to the development of Guyana. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

‘We understand the importance ... From page 13

many families depend on agriculture for their livelihood. Over the last two months, we’ve witnessed some amount of devastation to the sector, more so with crops with many farmers losing most if not all of their culti-

vation because of the unprecedented rainfall. You can rest assured that the government will ensure farmers receive help to get back to the land. We’ve started an assessment and based on those figures, you will receive some

form of assistance. The President will pronounce shortly on that,” Minister Mustapha said. He also told residents that he will speak with his collegue minister so that they can visit and address the other issues that were raised.

A villager examining the ‘bongo pump’, a tool used to control Acoushi Ant infestation

A villager with some of the seeds that were donated to the village

Trio accused of armed robbery remanded

Joel Morrison, called ‘Jako’

Dane Bowen, called ‘Dane Boy’

THREE men were on Tuesday remanded to prison for the armed robbery committed on a 57-year-old Linden businesswoman at her grocery shop located near the Rockstone/Mabura Access Road. Joel Morrison, called “Jako”, 29, of Pike Street, Sophia; Dane Bowen, called

“Dane Boy”, and Elijah Hollingsworth, both 25 years old of Blue Berry Hill, Wismar, Linden appeared before Magistrate Wanda Fortune at the Linden Magistrate’s Court. The accused were not required to plead to the offence, which was committed on Dianne Ross, and were later remanded to prison until August

Elijah Hollingsworth 26.

On July 17, the three men were arrested by police at the Konawaruk Junction in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), hours after they allegedly robbed Ross of her valuables. The men were searched, and all the stolen articles were reportedly found in their possession.

Minister Mustapha also told residents that, through the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), the village will receive materials and technical support to construct a shadehouse that will serve as a model shadehouse for the village. He also informed villagers that NAREI has shadehouse materials that

are being sold at a subsidised cost in an effort to encourage farmers to plant more sustainably given the negative impact climate change is having on the agriculture sector. After the meeting, Minister Mustapha handed over a number of farming tools and planting materials after receiving requests from

farmers for some assistance. The village’s toshao received the items on behalf of the village and will distribute the items to villagers in need. The items included seeds, chemicals, fertilisers, a number of small farming tools and ‘bongo’ pumps to assist villagers with treating Acoushi Ant infestation.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Eid-ul-Adha messages Eid-ul-Adha messages Eid-ul-Adha messages

President Ali: True devotion is what God Almighty requires from us As-Salaamu-Alaikum! Eid Mubarak, Eid Mubarak, Eid Mubarak! I am pleased to be extending Eid greetings to all Guyanese, especially

to my Muslim brothers and sisters. I pray that the lessons and traditions associated with Eid-ulAdha will inspire an outpouring of support and love for our less fortunate

brothers and sisters. Eid-ul-Adha is a time to honour the example of faithfulness demonstrated by the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). His willingness to submit to total

obedience to the will of God represents the true test of spiritual devotion. Our country today is marking Eid-ul-Adha in extraordinary circumstances. We are still com-

batting the deadly and dangerous COVID-19 coronavirus. The pandemic has affected the way Muslims observe the Festival of Sacrifice not only in Guyana but across the globe. The inevitable restrictions on movement on travel have limited the number of those performing Hajj, and it has curtailed the traditional visits and social interactions associated with Eid. I take this opportunity to urge all to continue to adhere to the guidelines and protocols advised by our Ministry of Health. The short-term sacrifices we are prepared to make for our long-term good will determine how fast and how well we exit this pandemic. True devotion is what God Almighty requires from us. Eid-ul-Adha embodies the spirit of the devotion which we now recall and celebrate with Qurbani. Today, many of our countrymen and women are suffering from hardship due to the recent floods. Many have lost their means of livelihood, and others have suffered material losses. We ask God to grant relief to those who are affected and to bless those who are assisting them. May we too stretch our hands to those in need at this time. Qurbani is an expression of gratitude and a manifestation of our willingness to utilise the favours of God in obedience to Him and for the benefit of His creation. The animal that is sacrificed symbolises the animal in man himself – his evil desires, envy, jealousy, greed and hatred. It is these vices that are sacrificed for the love of God. As we observe Eidul-Adha, let us remember that it is not the meat or the blood that reaches Almighty God but rather the sincerity of our intentions to obey Him as the Prophet Ibrahim did. The everlasting reward of Paradise cannot be accomplished by the

His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali animal sacrifice alone. Sacrifice involves our entire life. The greatest charity is when someone sacrifices his or her comforts for the comfort of others. The Prophet Ibrahim was not prepared to sacrifice his dignity, the principles of truth and morality for personal interests. He remained steadfast and patient. Unfortunately, some have sacrificed their morals for material gains. Some sacrifice their honour and dignity because of lust for wealth and power, and some willingly sacrifice the collective interest to further their selfish desire. The benefits accrued from these acts are shortlived and will not avail us on the Day of Judgement. Let us remove the barriers of love for those things which threaten our closeness with God and eternal happiness. I pray that God Almighty accepts our good deeds and causes our sacrifice to be a means through which we will attain nearness to him, his creation and to succeed in both worlds. I urge all Guyanese to take from the lessons of sacrifice and commitment and to apply it as I too take lessons from sacrifice and commitment, so all of us can work harder each day to be better towards each other, to be more caring towards each other, to give a bit more of ourselves to each other. And to work together until all of us enjoy the essential elements that bind us as humanity -- love for country, community, and family. Thank you. As-Salaamu-Alaikum!

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Eid-ul-Adha messages Eid-ul-Adha messages Eid-ul-Adha messages

CIOG: Eid-ul-Adha is the celebration of reformation of the human condition

As-salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi-wa warakaatuh. Eid Mubarak, Eid Mubarak, Eid Mubarak! God Almighty has reminded us in the final revelation to mankind, this glorious Quran; “This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed my favours upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your way of life. “ (Holy Quran-Chapter 5 Verse 3)” All gratitude is due to Allah (SWT), Lord of all creation, peace and blessings on the Prophets and the final Prophet to mankind (SAW), his family and companions. I extend Eid Mubarak greetings on behalf of the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana and pray that Allah, the Almighty, accept all our sacrifices and good deeds. Eid-ul-Adha is the commemoration of one of the most celebrated Prophet and his family in history. Our father, Ibrahim (peace be upon him) or Abraham. He is known as the common patriarch or what is referred to as the Abrahamic religions-- Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The day of Eid-ul-Adha is

the commemoration of the sacrifices of our father Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his family. This struggle at its core revolves around his absolute and pure devotion to Allah (swt), GOD Almighty. Him and his family’s willingness to sacrifice his prized possession and that which he loved most-- his son Ishmael-- fulfilling the commandment of his Lord. Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) is described as the forefather of all the prophets who came after him, including Moses, Jesus, and our Beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) is accorded the highest status in the Holy Quran and is described in Chapter 16: verse 120), as an “Ummah,” a nation. Imagine a single person referred to as an Ummah. This is partly because the amount of good, his exemplary submission to Allah (SWT) and his sincerity in his worship, all embodied to the degree of an entire Ummah, a nation. He was given the title of Khaleel ullah, or friend of Allah. His submission to the lord is confirmed in the Quran, “When his

Lord said to him ‘Submit’, he said ‘I have submitted [In Islam] to the Lord of the worlds” (Holy Quran-Chapter 2: Verse 131) Now that Eid-ul-Adha is upon us, how should we commemorate this day? Eid-ul-Adha is a season of reflection, happiness, family bonding, and bridging the gap between the rich and poor, as well as nurturing mutual compassion for all of humanity. Eid is also an opportunity to demonstrate solidarity despite we are experiencing another year of not being able to observe the Hajj. The Muslim Ummah and the world continues to experience crises and face challenges. We are in a period of a great test, which should motivate us to reflect on the blessings of the lord which we take for granted. We must not become complacent during this pandemic, many have

lost their loved ones due to Covid-19, and therefore we must give abundant thanks. Let us use this opportunity as an impetus which drives us to be more compassionate to all of humanity. The pandemic does not discriminate-- every race, colour, creed or social standing have been affected. We must respond in the spirit of sacrifice, compassion and selflessness. Eid-ul-Adha is the celebration of the reformation of the human condition from that of servitude to men to the Creator of all living and non-living things. We must remain humble and do not fall into the trap of considering yourself better than others; Remember Allah (SWT) says, “People, we created you all from a single man and a single woman, and made you into nations and tribes so that you should get to know one another. Allah (SWT) reminds us, “The most honored of you are the ones most mindful of Him: God is all knowing, all aware.” (Holy Quran – Chapter 49: verse 13). Considering Eid as a unifying factor, I humbly request you to join me in raising our hands in

supplicating to The Almighty for Blessings and Protection of our Muslim brethren and all of humanity. Let us pray for peaceful co-existence in Guyana and the entire world. Change begins with the person in the mirror. Our actions must prove that we mean no ill to anyone and we must remember that we are all part of one humanity. Each one of us has to be the change that we desire. Verily, Allah (SWT) will not change the condition of a people until they change themselves. (Holy Quran – Chapter 13: Verse 11) As we enjoy ourselves, let us keep the remembrance of God ever present on our tongues and in our hearts. Let us extend kindness to our less fortunate. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) described the days of Eid, ‘They are days of eating, drinking, and remembering Allah.” Allah (SWT) reminds us about Prophet Abraham in the Quran, “Indeed, the most worthy of Abraham among the people are those who followed him [in submission to Allah] and this Prophet, and those who believe [in his message]. And Allah is the

Wali (protector and helper) of the believers.” (Holy Quran Chapter 3: Verse 68) Our Father, Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him, epitomized the verse of the Quran: Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us).” (Holy Quran Surah Al-Imran 3: verse 173) May Allah (SWT) bless you and your families and make us people who strive to bring benefit to others. Let us become agents of peace, instilling harmony among people regardless of ethnicity and creed. Let us be protectors of each other. May GOD bless our nation as we all strive for a better country! May Allah (SWT) show us right as right and help us to follow it and show us evil as evil and enable us to stay far away from it. I pray our reflection leads us to be true followers of the great Prophet, Patriarch, our father, the Friend of GOD Ibrahim (Abraham), peace be upon him and his family. Eid Mubarak Eid Mubarak Eid Mubarak Wa-alaikumus-salaam-wa rahmatullahi-wa bara kaa tuh.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Eid-ul-Adha messages Eid-ul-Adha messages Eid-ul-Adha messages

PPP: Eid-ul-Adah reminds us of the willingness to selflessly make sacrifices in obedience to God THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) wishes to take this opportunity to extend Eid-ul-Adha greetings and best wishes to our Muslim brothers and sisters here in Guyana and in the Diaspora. A national holiday, Eidul-Adah reminds of unbridled humility and the willingness

to selflessly make sacrifices in obedience to God. Its message is seen as pertinent to the spiritual upliftment of all mankind which redounds in peace and togetherness. It comes during the annual Holy Pilgrimage to Mecca, The Hajj-- a journey that embodies sacrifices in the quest to fulfil religious

obligations and which is demonstrative of the teachings of equality. Its observance con-

tinues to exemplify humane characteristics of generosity, morality and love for others, especially the less fortunate. In a multi-religious society like Guyana, these attributes have proven their value not only in catalyzing and strengthening bonds among our people, but which continue to forge better

understanding and appreciation of our cultures. Unfortunately, while traditional celebrations of this auspicious occasion have been curtailed due to the ongoing impact of the COVID-19, nevertheless the party urges reflection on the pertinent messages of the oc-

casion and the many sacrifices Guyanese have made over time for self-advancement and nation-building with the common objective of a better life and future for all. Eid Mubarak! People’s Progressive Party

Region Three Private Sector Inc: Eid-ul-Adha exemplifies generosity, morality and love for others THE Region Three Private Sector Inc. takes this opportunity to extend greetings and best wishes to the Muslim communities here in Guyana and in the Diaspora on the sacred occasion of Eid-ul-Adha. Its observance comes during the annual Holy Pilgrimage to Mecca-- The Hajj;

a journey that embodies sacrifices in the quest to fulfil religious obligations. Eid-ul-Adha reminds of unbridled humility and the willingness to selflessly make sacrifices in obedience of God. Its inspiring messages are pertinent to the spiritual advancement of all mankind which redounds in peace and

togetherness. Its observance also continues to exemplify humane characteristics of generosity, morality and love for others, especially the less fortunate. In a diverse society like Guyana where religious boundaries are often transcended, these attributes have proven their value not only in ca-

talysing and strengthening bonds among our people, but also in forging a better understanding and appreciation of our rich cultures and religious practices. As our Muslim brothers and sisters celebrate in traditional ways, the occasion once again brings into focus the many sacrifices Guya-

nese have and continue to make for self-advancement and nation-building with the common objective of a better life and future for all. The Reg.3 Private Sector Inc. is mindful that, regrettably, due to COVID-19 protocols, related activities would be restricted. However, it’s optimistic

that the significance of Eidul-Adha and its relevance in today’s world will not in any way be diminished. The organisation, therefore, urges that the messages and significance of this occasion be foremost in the minds of all so that hope will continue to flourish. Eid Mubarak!

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Eid-ul-Adha messages Eid-ul-Adha messages Eid-ul-Adha messages

GTUC: May Allah continue to shine His blessings on every Guyanese THE Guyana Trades Union Congress extends Eid ul-Adha greetings to all Guyanese, particularly our Muslim brothers and sisters. This year’s event will be observed, as it was last year, when the world is confronting the challenges of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

pandemic and, in the case of Guyana, the after effects of the flood, which, according to the government, is the worst disaster in the nation’s history. In these trying times, our Muslim brothers and sisters have been asked, like Abraham, to show love and obedience to Allah (God) and

like him, will be rewarded for such demonstration. As the story goes, Allah appeared to Abraham in a dream and asked that he sacrifice his son, Ibrahim. This unselfish act, even though tempted by forces to disobey, was met with unflinching loyalty and obedience. On Abraham’s way to

make the sacrifice of his son, God stopped and gave him a sheep to sacrifice instead. Abraham was rewarded for his obedience and willingness. His experience reminds us of the sacrifice of selfish desires for the common good, and of God’s mercy and benefits when we obey His command. This is, thinking

of others and placing our trust and faith in the Most High. The lesson of Abraham is that Allah will never ask mankind for more than we can give and sacrifice and He will also never leave or forsake the obedient. It is the mercy of Allah that continues to keep Guyanese, every day in these trying times, as we

are presently being called to sacrifice of ourselves for our brothers and sisters, as Abraham was prepared to do with Ibrahim to prove his love and obedience to God. And on this and every day, may Allah continue to shine His blessings on every Guyanese. Happy Eid-ul-Adha.

PNC: Obedience to God and benevolence to mankind strengthen cohesion

THE People’s National Congress (PNC) greets all Guyanese on the happy occasion of Eid-ulAdha – the festival of the sacrifice. Eid-ul-Adha is a sacred celebration that commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s

unwavering obedience to Allah’s command to sacrifice his beloved son Ismael. Eid-ul-Adha is observed as a national holiday throughout the country with oblations, the dispensing of alms and the distri-

bution of food, usually the meat of a sacrificial lamb, to the less fortunate. Obedience to God and benevolence to mankind, particularly the poor and needy, demonstrate our common humanity and strengthen the chords of cohesion in

our community. Eid-ul-Adha, through the expressions of care and the outpouring of charity to others, is a manifestation of our collective endeavour to build a more equitable society in which everyone will be treated with dignity

and respect and which will promote greater harmony. The People’s National Congress wishes all Guyanese, especially our Islamic community, a joyous Eid-ul- Adha. Eid Mubarak!

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Emphasis being placed on –– Health Minister improved medical services

GREATER provisions are being made to improve the delivery of medical services at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), including the diversification of existing programmes and medical operations. This was disclosed by Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony during a press conference at the GPHC on Monday. According to the minister, the Health Ministry will be placing greater emphasis on adjusting resources at the GPHC, in order to suit

the growing and diversifying needs of patients not only within Guyana but around the Caribbean. The announcement came following a discussion on the capabilities of the Surgical Transplant Department at the GPHC, in which Dr Anthony stated that the GPHC will now be able to offer multiple types of surgeries, including ophthalmology and laparoscopic surgery, among a range of other services. “Certainly, we’ll be adjusting our resources at the GPHC…. I think this has

been the best-kept secret for the region but we will soon be able to offer these not just to our patients but to the wider the Caribbean as a whole,” the minister stated. In addition to the GPHC, Dr Anthony explained that the Health Ministry has also examined the possibility of developing the capacity of other public health institutions — mainly hospitals —within the other regions; with particular focus on the New Amsterdam Hospital. “… by the end of the

year, we will be able to put in a laparoscopic suite and we will be able to do laparoscopic surgery there as well,” he said. Aside from mainstream medical services offered by various health institutions across the country, the minister made reference to the Dr Cheddi Jagan Dental Centre, noting that the range of services offered by the institution is difficult to access in many parts of the Caribbean. He highlighted that, in recent years, Guyana has been the destination

for persons to do dental work but reinforced that the “dental school” as it is commonly known, has a range of unique services, which the Health Ministry will aim to replicate at other public healthcare institutions across the country. “So there are many, many areas of development that we are currently investing in… there are things we are developing and the doctors here have all been trained in these areas and would be able to offer all these services,” he contended.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

‘Because We Care’ a reflection of love for future leaders

MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar says the decision by the government to reintroduce the ‘Because We Care’ cashgrant programme is an indication of its interest

Minister within Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar in providing future leaders with the necessary support. Minister Indar made the observation while overseeing the distribution of the grants to students in the Mahaicony area on Monday. “This cash-grant programme is a reflection of love. How do you express love? That is by giving, and that is what our government is doing,” he said. “We are giving and supporting our people and our children.”

Soorojanie Roopnarine Minister Indar said the Opposition was against the resuscitation of the initiative, claiming that is un-

sustainable, but the PPP/C Government thought otherwise. “If you have monies allocated for children and children’s development, then it ought to be given to them; it should not be taken away from them,” Minister Indar reasoned. “You all know that the children are the future of this country, as we would not be here for longer, but the children will be here to take on our legacy, so we have to prepare, support, craft and help them or do whatever we have to for our children,” he added. The minister called out those who are encouraging parents to reject the grants, saying that the initiative will help parents of children in the public school system. “How come that is wrong? Since when it be-

Simone Tucker-Ali came wrong? I cannot tell you that it is wrong,” he said, adding: “That is why when people tell you not to collect the support which ‘Because We Care’ is offering, then reject them in the strongest possible terms, as that is utter nonsense for you to tell a family to not receive this cash grant.” Minister Indar also encouraged parents and teachers to get vaccinated, and to encourage others to do the same to achieve herd immunity. Several parents also expressed their appreciation for the initiative. Simone Tucker-Ali said, “I’m so happy, because I have my two nieces that I am collecting for, and

I am just happy that the government has been able to provide to parents and guardians. I just hope that this can continue.” Mother of five, Soorojanie Roopnarine, said the initiative has alleviated some of her worries about

the possible reopening of schools in September. “I am very grateful for this, since it will help me a lot,” she said. Ganesh (only name given) thanked the government for looking out for its people in a time of need, espe-

cially during the pandemic. Regional Chairman, Vickchand Ramphal was also present at the exercise. Each public-school pupil and student will receive $19,000 in cash, $15,000 of which is from the ‘Because We

Care’ cash grant initiative, while the remaining $4,000 is from the school uniform and supplies cash grant. The government has promised that within five years, the grant will be increased to $50,000. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Health Ministry still open to workplace vaccination

HEALTH Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony said the ministry has been working with companies and organisations to get their employees vaccinated in the comfort of their working environment. During Tuesday’s COVID-19 update, the minister said workers should ad-

here to all preventative measures and be fully vaccinated in order to limit the spread of the disease in workplaces. “So rather than them having the inconvenience of coming to one of our fixed sites, if they inform us, we will be able to bring a team to the worksite and do all the vaccinations there and if it’s

first dose we’ll come back and do the second dose as well,” Dr. Anthony said. Minister Anthony said there may be some workplaces that fail to adhere to the guidelines, putting themselves and the public at risk. He said measures in place at workplaces will significantly reduce the risk of infection.

“There are many workplaces that still have not vaccinated or their employees have not been vaccinated and that will put the employees at risk, plus it would put the public that is coming in to do business with that particular workplace at risk as well.” He said employers must ensure that workers on the site wear their masks correctly at all times. “Because we know that from time-to-time people would pull down the mask and be talking to people. You have to wear it correctly and consistently and of course maintain social distancing, sanitising and so forth,” Minister Anthony said. Several COVID-19 hotlines have also been established and these are

Health worker administering COVID-19 vaccine (DPI photo) managed and used to call vaccinated persons to see whether or not they have developed any reactions.

Open hotlines are also available to persons for anything COVID-related. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Minister Anthony: Guyana distance away from herd immunity HEALTH Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, said Guyana is still some distance away from achieving herd immunity, as only 26.5 per cent of the adult population has been fully vaccinated. However, more than 50 per cent of the adult population has received the first dose of the vaccine. With second dose figures still significantly low, Minister Anthony is again calling on individuals to ensure they are vaccinated. During his COVID-19 update on Tuesday, the minister reassured the nation that all vaccines being used have been tested. “We have a lot more work to do. However, we

want people to understand that these vaccines are safe, they are working, they are helping to prevent deaths, they’re helping to prevent severe disease and they need to come out and protect themselves. “We also want to encourage persons who would have already received the vaccines, to talk to others who are hesitant about their experience, because most persons who have received the vaccine, they didn’t have a bad experience, they didn’t have any signs or symptoms of anything. Those who probably had a little bit of fever, they’re just minor reactions, so, it’s not

as bad as people would imagine.” He said it is even more important that persons get vaccinated since there is an increase in the Delta variant. “It’s now a pandemic among the non-vaccinated, meaning that if you haven’t received your vaccines as yet, you are at higher risk of getting a severe form of the disease and even dying from COVID, which can be prevented. And it can be prevented by just taking the vaccines.” The Ministry of Health and the National COVID-19 Task Force began the COVID-19 vaccination campaign in

the first week of March. So far, 243, 540 persons have received their first doses, while 128,847 persons have received their second doses. (DPI)

Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony

ILO: Fewer women than men will regain employment during COVID-19 recovery

THE inequalities between women and men in the world of work that have been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic will persist in the near future, according to the International Labour Or-

ganisation (ILO). A new policy brief finds there will be 13 million fewer women in employment in 2021 compared to 2019, while men’s employment will have recovered to 2019 levels. Even though the pro-

jected jobs growth in 2021 for women exceeds that of men, it will, nonetheless, be insufficient to bring women back to pre-pandemic employment levels, a release said. It added that only 43.2 per cent of the world’s work-

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

The inequalities between women and men in the world of work that have been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic will persist in the near future, says the ILO (ILO photo) ing-age women will be employed in 2021, compared to 68.6 per cent of working-age men. The ILO brief, Building Forward Fairer: Women’s rights to work and at work at the core of the COVID-19 recovery, shows that women have suffered disproportionate job and income losses because of their over-representation in the hardest-hit sectors, such as accommodation and food services, and the manufacturing sector. Globally, between 2019 and 2020, women’s employment declined by 4.2 per cent, representing a drop of 54 million jobs, while men’s employment declined by three per cent, or 60 million jobs. Not all regions have been affected in the same way. The Americas experienced the greatest reduction in women’s employment as a result of the pandemic (a reduction of 9.4 per cent). The second highest drop in the number of employed women was observed in the Arab States where, between 2019 and 2020, women’s employment declined by 4.1 per cent and men’s by 1.8 per cent. In Asia and the Pacific, the pandemic led women’s employment to decrease by 3.8 per cent, compared to a decline of 2.9 per cent for men. In Europe and Central Asia, women’s employment was curtailed considerably more than men’s, leading to a 2.5 per cent and a 1.9 per cent decrease, respectively. In Africa, men’s employment experienced the smallest decline across all geographic regions, with just a 0.1 per cent drop between 2019 and 2020, while women’s employment decreased by 1.9 per cent. During the pandemic, women faired considerably

better in countries that took measures to prevent them from losing their jobs and allowed them to re-enter employment as early as possible. In Chile and Colombia, for example, wage subsidies were applied to new hires, with higher subsidy rates for women. Colombia and Senegal were among those who created or strengthened support for women entrepreneurs, the release pointed out. In other cases, such as Mexico or Kenya, quotas were established to guarantee that women benefitted from public employment programmes. The brief emphasises that “building forward fairer” means placing gender equality at the core of the recovery effort and putting in place gender-responsive strategies. These include investing in the care economy because the health, social work and education sectors are important generators of jobs, especially for women, and because care leave policies and flexible working arrangements can encourage a more even division of work at home between women and men; working towards universal access to comprehensive, adequate and sustainable social protection for all to reduce the current gender gap in social protection coverage; promoting equal pay for work of equal value; eliminating violence and harassment in the world of work. Domestic violence and work-related gender-based violence and harassment worsened during the pandemic, further undermining women’s ability to engage in paid employment; and promoting women’s participation in decision-making bodies, social dialogue and social partner institutions.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Gov’t accelerates $99.5M Georgetown Road maintenance

GOVERNMENT, through the Ministry of Public Works, Special Project Unit has accelerated its $99.5 million road maintenance programme in the capital City. These works are to remedy defects developed during the rainy season and will restore the safety, serviceability, structural capacity and appearance of the roads. In order to remedy the current flaws, the City was divided into five quadrants and a visual inspection of each quadrant was conducted which identified and prioritised the thoroughfares for emergency remedial works. Sectional rehabilitation or overlaying is part of the

works catered for; these include but are not limited to roadway excavation followed by the placing of minimum white sand or sand clay and minimum aggregate base layer and 50 millimeters (mm) asphaltic concrete. Additionally, several potholes will be fixed. This includes squaring and cleaning of potholes, place and compact aggregate base finishing with some 50 mm asphaltic concrete as directed by the engineer. Asphaltic concrete for the project will be supplied by the Public Works Ministry while contractors will be paid to transport, place and compact the material according to technical specification.

Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill, said the advance works are in keeping with government’s development agenda and also to

ensure that the nation’s roadways are safe and secure. The minister is appealing to road users to ex-

ercise patience, noting that traffic diversions have been enforced to facilitate several road projects. Some $25.6 billion has

also been approved for the rehabilitation and construction of roads and bridges under Budget 2021. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Starc’s five-wicket haul leads Aussies to... regain. Starc, whose form improved through the T20 series, removed Evin Lewis first ball with a low return catch from a leading edge and then produced a trademark inswinger to castle Jason Mohammed. Hazlewood then showed his skills off his own bowling with a superb one-handed catch to his left to snaffle Shimron Hetymer's leading edge as a pitch where the ball was going through the top proved dangerous to drive on. Nicholas Pooran became Starc's third wicket when an lbw decision was upheld with the ball trimming leg stump and Hazlewood kept pace with his new-ball partner when Darren Bravo drove carelessly to point, when some circumspection was needed, then Jason Holder hooked to long leg. At six down inside eight overs the match was heading for a very swift finish but Pollard counterattacked against Adam Zampa with Alzarri Joseph providing solid support in a seventh-wicket stand. Mitchell Marsh broke through when he knocked back Joseph's off stump before Starc returned to add the finishing

touches with his eighth five-wicket bag. For only the third time since 1980-81 Australia handed out three ODI debuts in the same game with Josh Philippe, Ben McDermott and Wes Agar were given their first caps. For South Australia quick Agar, the brother of Ashton who handed him his cap, it was his first international appearance. Agar ended up delivering six tight overs after the early damage inflicted by Starc and Hazelwood. Philippe and McDermott were paired together at the top of the order - the last time Australia had two new openers in the same ODI was also the last time they fielded three debutants, against Sri Lanka 2012-13 - and they made a strong start led by Philippe who dominated the scoring. Philippe twice cleared the ropes in the first 10 overs, firstly a pull off the slightly wayward Sheldon Cottrell and then a clean strike down the ground off Mohammed, before undoing his good work when he chopped on giving himself room against Hosein. The in-form Marsh set off in positive fashion after his successful T20 series before glancing a

catch down the leg side that wasn't given on field but overturned by DRS Marsh knew his fate and was walking off when the review was called. On a surface where the ball was occasionally going through the top from the quicks and offering some turn for the spinners timing wasn't always easy and Australia's innings became harder work against good spells from Hosein, who bowled his 10 overs straight through, and Joseph. Moises Henriques' difficult 24-ball stay ended with a top-edged a sweep to short fine leg and when McDermott - who had only faced 48 balls in 25 overs - nicked the deserving Joseph to slip Australia were 114 for 4. By then Carey had already opened his boundary account with a slog-swept six off Hosein and after a second rain-break took consecutive boundaries from Mohammed's parttime offspin. Turner was given a life on 12 when he pulled Cottrell towards long leg but Mohammed could not hold a low chance as he ran in off the boundary. That was in an eight-over period where Australia did not

Aleka Persaud – Guyana’s... The first swimmer, male or female, to represent Guyana at the Olympics was Linden’s Onan Thom. He was 20 years old at the time. Najuma Fletcher, Guyana’s women’s National high jump record holder (1.90m) was 18 years old when she competed in the Women’s High Jump at the

1992 Games in Barcelona. When 15-year-old Aleka Persaud enters the pool on Friday, July 30 in the women’s 50m freestyle, she will become the youngest-ever athlete to feature for Guyana at the Olympic Games. Persaud is among the best swimmers in the Caribbean in her age group, and Race 8 Analyzethisandthat

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(From back page)

in 2019, she claimed gold medals in the 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle and 100m butterfly at the CARIFTA Swimming Championships. Along with Andrew Fowler, she received FINA’s Universality spot to dive into action with the best swimmers in the world. 11:10 hrs Smooth Talking 11:40 hrs Epsom Faithful Sandown 13:00 hrs C’mon Kenny 13:30 hrs Porche Cavalier 14:00 hrs Sunset Bay 14:35 hrs Enigmatic 15:10 hrs Barn Owl 15:45 hrs Dancing Harry Leicester 12:35 hrs Mine’s A Double 13:10 hrs Sweet Bertie 13:40 hrs Millie Miglia 14:15 hrs Glencora 14:50 hrs Iconic Queen 15:25 hrs Truth To Jest

find the boundary against some tight bowling from Walsh and Joseph. Carey began to kick things on when he brought up his fifty with a flat six over long-off which was followed next ball by a scooped four off Holder. Turner then started to find his range with back-toback sixes off Holder - the

(From back page)

first a strong blow over wide long-on followed by a top edge over the keeper - before another rain interruption. Walsh had been held back until the 29th over by Pollard but then conceded barely three an over for the majority of his spell. In his eighth over Carey missed a sweep to

lose his leg stump and Turner top-edged to deep square one short of his fifty, which was followed by Starc and Matthew Wade picking out fielders deep on the leg side in a five-wicket haul that took 16 balls to complete. But in the end Australia had more than enough. (CRICINFO)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Dharry floors Dominican Republic opponent thrice in first-round victory ACE Guyanese boxer Elton Dharry recorded an easy victory when he fought last Saturday night in Puerto Plata, in the Dominican Republic.

The seasoned fighter was able to stop his opponent Reyes in the first round after three consecutive knockdowns. Reyes was a late replace-

ment for the Guyanese, who had not been in the ring since late 2019. The Leguan-born boxer, who fights out of Brooklyn, New York, was originally

This led the organisers of the event to select another Dominican boxer for the bout.

Dharry suffered a debatable loss to home boxer Andrew Moloney for the interim WBA super-flyweight title in Melbourne, Australia. Prior to that, he was flawless for almost a decade. In the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) Latino Rankings for the month of June, Dharry was ranked third. It was his highest ranking to date from the body. He was also highly ranked in the World Boxing Association (WBA) super-flyweight division for a number of years. In August of 2019, he was ranked fifth. Overall, he was ranked in the top 15 and then the top 10 for more than six years.

DOMINANCE Prior to his clash on Saturday, Dharry knew very little about his opponent. After a few minutes in the ring, Reyes became another statistic. The Dominican boxer was dropped twice via crushing left hooks to his body. On the third occasion, he hit the floor after a hard right cross landed on his body. This forced his management team to throw in the towel. Although the bout against Reyes was not what Dharry had originally expected, it was his 22nd win in 23 fights. In November of 2019,

NEXT STEP The explosive boxer is now looking to get back in the ring in September. He said that the Reyes fight was just a warm-up for a hopeful title shot on September 25 in Guyana. That card is being organised by Gary Sinclair and the Guyana Boxing Board of Control. Kaieteur Lefferts, Geminis Ultra Lounge, Amerigroup Properties - Jack Bharat, 212 Devices and NYSC- Jeawan Persaud helped to sponsor Dharry’s fight in the Dominican Republic.

Elton Dharry knocked down his opponent three times in the opening round.

expected to fight either a Mexican opponent or one from Omaha Nebraska, USA at the Forster Community Centre in Rock Rapids, Iowa on Saturday night, but none of those opponents worked out. He was then set to battle against Nicaraguan Julio Buitrago, at the same venue. That fighter also dropped out and then Dharry's management team organised a fight against a seasoned Dominican, who had matched skilled with previous world title winners. The venue was changed to his home country of the Dominican Republic. One week prior to the bout, that fighter had to pull out due to unforeseen circumstances.

Patandin’s third century leads Majestic CC to big win over Richmond Hill Liberty CHRIS Patandin stroked his third consecutive century to lead Majestic Cricket Club to a big win over one of the favourites of the Caribbean Fest 40-over Tournament, Richmond Hill Liberty, when action in the competition continued last Sunday in New York. With the win, Majestic CC are tied on 18 points with Galaxy CC, who both have nine wins in 10 matches in Group A. Richmond Hill Liberty and Everest/ACS are tied for the top position in Group B with 15 points (seven wins and a no-result each in 10 matches). In the battle of the pre-dominant Guyanese sides at Baisley ground, Majestic CC won the toss and opted to bat first. Patandin, who is a former national U-19 cricketer, got into his strides early and he, along with his skipper, former Berbice Inter-County cricketer

Derick Narine, blasted their way to 120 for the opening wicket. When Narine fell for 40 from 39 balls (4x4, 2x6), Liberty got another quick wicket and looked like they would have gained control, but Yutesh Dhanpaul (former Zeeburg CC cricketer) supported with 28 runs from 25 balls (2x4, 2x6). Patandin, who fell in the 30th over after his side had already passed 200, blasted 15 sixes and three fours in his 126 runs (83 balls). Later in the innings, Robin Rooplall added 33 (41 balls, 3x6) to help Liberty to 270 before they were bowled out in the 38th over. Liberty’s reigning best bowler and Academic Excellence Award recipient, Altaaf Habibulla, led their bowling attack with 3-23 from 4.3 overs, while Leon Mohabir, Keron Sewnarine and skipper Trevor

Henry supported with two wickets each. Former Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) cricketer Dino Chooweenam started off Liberty's chase with his explosive stroke plays, but he fell in the sixth over for 47 (off 22 balls, 2x4, 6x6). His opening partner Naresh Rambharos added 40 from 42 balls (3x4, 3x6), but there was little support from former U-19 national cricketers Azeemuddin Khan (3) and Henry (1). Habibulla with 35 (32 balls 2x4, 2x6) and Tegana McKenzie with 33 (24 balls, 1x4, 3x6) showed fight, but the firepower was gone as the side succumbed for 170 in 26.1 overs. Raj Singh took 3-21 from four overs to lead Majestic CC's bowling attack, while there were two wickets each for Narine, Dhanpaul and Robin Rooplall.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Ramdhani siblings, Advances in spike technology are laughable Haynes among winners at GBA National Division and unfair, says Bolt KINGSTON, Jamaica (Reuters): Usain Bolt said that advances in spike technology that could help wipe out his world records are laughable and that the new shoes also give an unfair advantage over any athletes not wearing them. After athletes ripped through the record books in distance running with carbon-plated, thick-soled shoes, the technology has now moved into sprint spikes, where - although there is less time in a race for the advantage to make an impact - it is still enough to make a difference. "When I was told about it I couldn’t believe that this is what we have gone to, you know what I mean, that we are really adjusting the spikes to a level where it’s now giving athletes an advantage to run even faster," Bolt told Reuters in an interview from Kingston. The 100- and 200-metre world record holder competed in Puma spikes throughout his career. "It's weird and unfair for a lot of athletes because I know that in the past they (shoe companies) actually tried and the governing body said 'No, you can't change the spikes', so to know that now they are actually doing it, it’s laughable,” the eight-time Olympic Champion added. American Trayvon Bromell is favourite to take Bolt’s 100m title in Tokyo. He is the fastest in the world over the distance this year with 9.77 secs, but the 2015 world 100m bronze medallist is less convinced about the impact of the shoes. "I don't think there's a lot of data to show that they're having such a big improvement," Bromell, who runs for New Balance, told reporters last week. "I know we (New Balance) are constantly building onto what we have to make the perfect spike, but for me personally as a runner I still feel like it's not enough data to really show." While other companies now have similar shoe models, Nike looks set to dominate and is priding itself on being a leader in the technology. "We're just smarter about

tournament

Usain Bolt (JAM) of Jamaica celebrates as he crosses the finish line to win the Men's 100m Final race in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 14/08/2016. (REUTERS/Dylan Martinez)

how we engineer and assemble them," Nike said in an email to Reuters. The company added that it works to keep its athletes on the cutting edge while staying within the rules. Weighing in on developments in shoe technology, World Athletics said: "The current regulations (July 2020) were designed to give certainty to athletes preparing for the postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, to preserve the integrity of elite competition and to limit technological development to the current level until after the Olympic Games in Tokyo, across all events." It said a working group on shoes aimed to set parameters to achieve a balance between innovation, competitive advantage and availability of the products. Performing in the Nike Air Zoom Maxfly, Jamaican two-time Olympic gold medallist Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce clocked the fastest 100m time in 33 years on June 5 in Kingston with a career-best 10.63 seconds. Only American world record holder Florence Griffith-Joyner has gone faster, with 10.49 seconds in Indianapolis in 1988. But Fraser-Pryce was unwilling to discount the work she has done to become the fastest woman alive, even as she trains and competes in

the spike. "You can give the spikes to somebody else and they'll probably not do the same things that I've done, so I'm not counting myself out of the hard work me and my coach has put in," the four-time 100m world champion told Reuters. "Maybe the combination of both - having good products and good runners combined - makes for a very good end-product. So for me, I can't single-handedly point to the spikes." American Sha'Carri Richardson, who lost her spot in the 100m in Tokyo after receiving a one-month suspension for using marijuana, moved up to number six on the all-time list with 10.72 seconds in April using the shoe. Veteran Jamaican sprint coach Stephen Francis admitted that faster times are being run in Nike's new sprint spikes. "Based on anecdotal evidence and based on the fact that you have people who never would have run as fast as they are running, I suspect that there may be a point, but there is no scientific basis to make that point," Francis told Reuters from Kingston. Whatever the advantage, he said, anyone can benefit from Nike's technology based on the rules set by World Athletics.

Some of the winners pose after the GBA's first in-house tourney since December 2019.

THE Guyana Badminton Association's (GBA) National A, B & C Division Tournament this past weekend at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall ended with top performances from some of Guyana's Badminton aces. It was played in a round-robin format and in the A & B Men’s Divisions the first two winners in the group moved to the semi-fi-

nals in the Main Draw. Guyana's leading male Badminton star Narayan Ramdhani, topped the Men's A category while his sister Priyanna, toppled the competition in the Women's A division. Akili Haynes, Christina Kumar, Avinash Odit were also among winners in the other divisions, as the GBA managed to get a good look at their crop of players fol-

Results: MEN’s SINGLES A-DIVISION: 1. Narayan Ramdhani 2. Akili Haynes 3. Avinash Odit 4. Jonathan Mangra LADIES’ SINGLES A-DIVISION: 1. Priyanna Ramdhani 2. Christina Kumar MEN’S SINGLES B-DIVISION: 1. Shavin Greene 2. Easa Sanichara 3. Shawn Liu 4. Chet Bowling LADIES’ SINGLES B-DIVISION: 1. Christina Kumar 2. Anna Maria Perreira 3. Emily Ramdhani 4. Ayanna Wickham-Watson MEN’S SINGLES C-DIVISION: 1. Jonathan Debidin 2. Matthew Klautky 3. Jonathan Robinson 4. Aiden Bhagwandin

lowing a long break due to COVID-19. Meanwhile, the competition was the first local tournament since December 2019 and was specifically organised by player Christiana Kumar, to whom the GBA sent their gratitude for acquiring sponsorship for the one-day event, which was played with all the COVID-19 guidelines in full effect.

LADIES’ SINGLES C-DIVISION: 1. Priyanka Shivnauth 2. Mishka Beharry 3. Eva Bowling 4. Kristen Bhagwandin Men’s Semi-Finals A-Division Narayan Ramdhani defeated Avinash Odit: 21-6, 21-8 Akili Haynes defeated Jonathan Mangra: 23-21, 13-21, 18-21 Men’s Finals A-Division: Narayan Ramdhani defeated Akili Haynes: 21-10, 21-11 Ladies Finals A-Division: Priyanna Ramdhani defeated Christina Kumar: 21-2, 21-6 Men’s Semi-Finals B-Division: Shavin Greene defeated Shawn Liu: 21-19, 17-21, 19-21 Easa Sanichara won by a walkover from Chet Bowling Men’s Finals B-Division: Shavin Green defeated Easa Sanichara: 21-12, 17-21, 15-21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Tokyo 2020 chief doesn't rule out cancelling Games By Ju-min Park and Sakura Murakami TOKYO, JAPAN (Reuters) - The chief of the Tokyo 2020 organising committee yesterday did not rule out cancelling the Olympics if COVID-19 cases spiked, as more athletes tested positive for the virus and sponsors ditched plans to attend Friday's opening ceremony. Asked at a news conference if the global sporting showpiece might still be cancelled, Toshiro Muto said he would keep an eye on infection numbers and liaise with other organisers if necessary. "We will continue discussions if there is a spike in cases," said Muto. "We have agreed that based on the coronavirus situation, we will convene five-party talks again. At this point, the coronavirus cases may rise or fall, so we will think about what we should do when the situation arises." A spokesman for Tokyo 2020 later said organisers

were "concentrating 100% on delivering successful Games". Rising COVID-19 cases in Tokyo have cast a large shadow over an event that, having already been postponed last year because of the pandemic, will now take place without spectators. Japan this month decided that participants would compete in empty venues to minimise health risks. There have been 67 cases of COVID-19 infections in Japan among those accredited for the Games since July 1, when many athletes and officials started arriving, organisers said yesterday. Japan, whose vaccination programme has lagged that of most other developed nations, has recorded more than 840 000 cases and 15 055 deaths and Games host city Tokyo is experiencing a fresh surge, with 1 387 cases recorded yesterday. Muto, a former top financial bureaucrat with close ties to Japan's ruling party, is known for his careful choice

of words, while officials are facing a domestic public angry about coronavirus restrictions and concerned over a possible spike in cases triggered by Games attendees arriving from abroad. Organisers, for whom International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach said cancelling the event had never been an option, have promised to keep the Games "safe and secure". But experts see gaps in an Olympic "bubble" that mandates frequent testing and has been designed to limit participants' movements. Seiko Hashimoto, who sits alongside Muto as organising committee president, said that safety measures introduced to reassure the Japanese public had not necessarily done so, and that she was aware that popular support for the Games had dropped. "I really want to apologise from my heart for the accumulation of frustrations and concerns that the public has been feeling towards the

Tokyo 2020 organising committee chief Toshiro Muto

Olympics," Hashimoto told the same news conference. 'UNPRECEDENTED CHALLENGES' The first major test of how an Olympics can be held in the midst of a pandemic may well come in the men's soccer tournament, when Japan face a South Africa side that could struggle to

field 11 players due to the coronavirus. That match is due to take place tomorrow, a day before an opening ceremony that top sponsor Panasonic Corp. as well as Fujitsu Ltd and NEC Corp will skip. Toyota Motor Corp dropped all TV ads linked to the Games on Monday. Bach, who Kyodo news agency said would meet Japan's Emperor Naruhito tomorrow, said yesterday organisers could never have imagined the "unprecedented challenges" of bringing the global event to Tokyo, praising the "heroic efforts" of medical personnel and volunteers around the world amid the pandemic. Two members of Mexico's Olympic baseball team tested positive for COVID-19 at the team hotel before their departure for Tokyo, the country's baseball federation said yesterday. The athletes, Hector Velazquez and Sammy Solis, who tested positive on Sunday, have been isolated,

as have all team members pending results of more tests, it said. Kenji Shibuya, former director of the Institute for Population Health at King's College London, said that the organisers' bubble system was already "kind of broken." "My biggest concern is, of course, there will be a cluster of infections in the (athletes') village or some of the accommodation and interaction with local people," he added. Organising committee president Hashimoto said members of the public were concerned "because they feel that the current situation appears to show that the playbooks that were meant to guarantee security is not providing a sense of safety." In a poll in the Asahi newspaper, 68% of respondents expressed doubt about the ability of Olympic organisers to control coronavirus infections, with 55% saying they were opposed to the Games going ahead.

England win thrilling T20 series USA, Mexico win groups to reach Gold Cup knockout round decider against Pakistan ENGLAND overcame an almighty wobble to beat Pakistan in a pulsating final Twenty20 at Emirates Old Trafford and win the series 2-1. Chasing 155 on a dry, turning pitch, England needed 61 from nine overs with eight wickets in hand after Jason Roy's 64. However, with Pakistan's spinners applying a vicelike grip and Dawid Malan struggling to score freely, the equation went out to 39 from four overs before captain Eoin Morgan regained control. In a dramatic penultimate

over, Malan was bowled by Mohammad Hafeez, only for Liam Livingstone to hit his first ball for six then be caught off his next, leaving six required off the final over. Although Morgan holed out with four needed, Chris Jordan got England over the line with two balls to spare. England's own spinners were earlier at the fore, restricting Pakistan to 154-6. Mohammad Rizwan batted through the innings for 76 not out, but the tourists were shackled by Adil Rashid's 4- 43, The hosts end their white-

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday July 21, 2021)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Viv Richards-23 ODIs (2) Eoin Morgan-14 ODIs Today’s Quiz: (1) Which WI wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals against ENG in ODIs to date? (2) Which ENG wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals against the WI in ODIs to date? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

ball summer with only one defeat from 12 matches against Pakistan and Sri Lanka, now moving on to a five-Test series with India which begins on 4 August. Before then, English cricket takes a step into the unknown with the inaugural season of The Hundred, which starts on Wednesday with the opening match of the women's competition. From a position where they were coasting, England were plunged into tension by some questionable strokes and the nous of the Pakistan bowlers. Captain Morgan looked to have the game won when he flicked two sixes off Hasan Ali's 18th over, yet vastly experienced off-spinner Hafeez dragged Pakistan back into it. Malan was bowled trying to make room, and rising star Livingstone heaved his first ball over mid-wicket, then sliced to short third man. Morgan skied a missed chance from the first ball of Hasan's last over and ran two, then was caught, only for the nerveless Jordan to take the required four runs from the next two deliveries. (BBC Sport)

LOS ANGELES, United States (AFP) - The United States and Mexico both won their groups in the CONCACAF Gold Cup last Sunday, scoring first-half goals that stood as game winners and advancing to the knock-out round of the tournament. Shaquell Moore scored one of the fastest goals in national team history as the United States captured Group B by holding on to beat Canada 1-0 while Luis Alfonso Rodriquez scored in the 26th minute as Mexico edged El Salvador by the same score to claim Group A. Moore scored just 20 seconds into the contest and keeper Matt Turner made three second-half saves in Kansas City as the USA finished 3-0 in group play, needing a victory to claim top spot over runners-up Canada. Moore hammered a right-footed shot from close range to the centre of the goal after taking a pass from Sebastian Lletget. In the 2014 World Cup, Clint Dempsey scored 30 seconds in for the United States against Ghana. The inexperienced American squad will play the run-

Edson Alvarez (left) of Mexico and Marvin Monterroza of El Salvador battle for the ball at Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas, on Sunday. (Photo: AFP)

ners-up from Group C in the quarter-finals while Canada, who needed just a tie to win the group, are set to square off against the Group C winner. Moore's first-minute goal was all the USA would need but Canada made the hosts work for the win, especially in the second half when they kept Turner busy. The Americans failed to muster a shot on goal against Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau in the second half. The Canadians, who had more corners (three to one), were

trying to win on US soil for the first time since 1957. Mexico came out on top in a tightly contested match in Dallas to win the group with seven points from their three matches. El Salvador settled for runner-up with two wins and one loss for six points. Rodriguez scored by charging down the right side, where he took a pass from teammate Hector Herrera then made a cut and launched a hard shot that deflected off another player before hitting the back of the goal.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Table tennis player Andrew ‘Six Heads’ Wong gets support Lewis competed at from Taco Loco DID YOU KNOW?

the 1992 Olympics By Rawle Toney WITH three days to go before the start of the Tokyo Olympics and apart from giving constant updates on our athletes’ performance at the Games, I will be doing a series of ‘DID YOU KNOW?’, highlighting some known, and unknown facts about our participation at the World biggest multi-sport event. In today’s edition: DID YOU KNOW that Andrew ‘Six Heads’ Lewis represented Guyana at the 1992 Olympics Games in Barcelona, Spain? Yes, the same Olympics where the USA unleashed the famous ‘Dream Team’. In fact, history would show that Lewis and Dillion Carew qualified for Barcelona by excelling at the Olympic Qualifier in Argentina. Lewis qualified for the Men’s Welterweight, while Carew competed in the Light-Welterweight category. Germany’s Andreas Otto was Lewis’s opposition when he narrowly lost (7:8). Otto went on to reach the Quarter-finals but lost to eventual gold medallist Michael Carruth from Ireland. Lewis was an accomplished Amateur boxer. He won Guyana’s ONLY silver medal at the 1990 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Mexico, when he went down to Cuba’s Julio González in the Light-Welterweight division final. In fact, Guyana won

three medals at the 1990 CAC Games; apart from our lone silver medal from Lewis, Featherweight boxer Mark Richardson picked up a bronze for reaching the semi-finals of the division, and sprinter Junior Cornette claimed bronze in the Men’s 200m finals. Lewis turned pro one year after his Olympic participation and in 2001, he claimed the World Boxing Association (WBA) Welterweight championship. At the end of his career, the man from Albouystown had a ring record of 23 wins (20 by KO), four losses and two draws. He was also an inspiration to an entire generation of fighters and champions. Lewis died in 2015

following an accident on the East Bank Demerara roadway.

RESTAURANT Taco Loco has supported National table tennis player Miguel Wong, who is seeking to attend a three-month training camp from September in the United States of America as he prepares for the Junior Pan American Games in Colombia from November 25 to December 5. Proprietor Kian Jabour handed over an undisclosed amount of cash to the player yesterday at the Drury Lane, Campbellville location. Back in May, the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) had requested a proposal from the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) on getting Wong into a high-performance programme ahead of the Games. It is understood that if Wong gets into the threemonth camp, it could cost approximately US$3 000, and Wong explained that this support is extremely welcome as he continues to train intensely for his presence at the inaugural Games. When the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) revealed the prospectus for the event, Wong was listed as a Caribbean representative for the Men’s Under-21 Singles.

Miguel Wong (left) accepts the support from Taco Loco’s Kian Jabour yesterday.

Meanwhile, Jabour indicated he has been monitoring Wong’s progress for quite some time and he was more than happy to support the players since it is “important that we start seeing athletes as professionals”. Jabour further contended it is important that persons understand sport as critical to a country’s economic growth

as it is to its social growth. The restaurant owner commended Wong for his outstanding work and dedication despite the few facilities locally. The Games is a forthcoming international multisport event for athletes aged 18 to 21 in the Americas, organised by Panam Sports.

Mitchell Starc ripped through the West Indies batting line-up (Getty Images)

Starc’s five-wicket haul leads Aussies to crushing win in first ODI MITCHELL Starc took a five-wicket haul as he and Josh Hazlewood dismantled West Indies in the opening ODI at Kensington Oval, to give Alex Carey, who had earlier played a key hand with the bat, a winning start as Australia's captain. Carey, standing in for the injured Aaron Finch, had formed the backbone of Australia's innings with

Ashton Turner in a fifth-wicket stand of 104 in 19 overs before Hayden Walsh Jr sparked a late collapse with a career-best five-wicket haul. However, Australia's 252 - which was adjusted to a target of 257 after three rain interruptions cut the match to 49 overs - quickly looked imposing as Starc and Hazlewood got to work with the new ball to leave them in a heap on 27 for 6.

(Scores: Australia 252 for 9 (Carey 67, Turner 49, Walsh Jr 5-39) beat West Indies 123 (Pollard 56, Starc 5-48, Hazlewood 3-11) by 133 runs (DLS method) Starc took three wickets in his first spell then returned to the end the aggressive rearguard of Kieron Pollard with a 41-ball fifty but the captain had been left with far too much g r o u n d t o TURN TO PAGE 31 ►

Aleka Persaud – Guyana’s youngest Olympian 31 PAGE

Swimmer Aleka Persaud

By Rawle Toney GUYANA will be represented by seven athletes at the Tokyo Olympics, which starts on Friday, and here at Chronicle Sport, we will be giving the casual sport fans some insights, profile and some background information on those talented

Guyanese in Japan. Today, we’ll start with the youngest athlete to ever represent Guyana, even going back to British Guiana, at the Olympic Games – Aleka Persaud. Dating back to 1948, Guyana competed at 17 Olympic Games; five of those were under British Guiana. TURN TO PAGE 31 ►

'Faster, Higher, Stronger Together': IOC amends motto TOKYO, Japan (Reuters) - The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has amended its 'Faster, Higher, Stronger' motto to include the word 'Together', its president Thomas Bach said yesterday, highlighting the need for solidarity during difficult times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. "We have to adapt the motto to our times," he told a session meeting following the approval of an Olympic Charter amendment. The motto now reads: 'Faster, Higher, Stronger Together'. "The collaborative effort is bringing faster and better results than working in silos and protecting each silo from the progress of the other silo," added Bach. "This is a milestone in our development and sends a clear signal. We want to

IOC president Thomas Bach

put special focus on solidarity." The original motto, the Latin 'Citius, Altius, Fortius', was adopted by the founder of the modern Games Pierre De Coubertin in the 19th century. The Latin version will become 'Citius, Altius, Fortius - Communis'.

India edge Sri Lanka to clinch ODI series INDIA beat Sri Lanka by three wickets in the second One-Day International to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series after Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Chahar guided the tourists home with maiden half-centuries. Chasing 276 for victory, India found themselves in trouble at 3-65 after they lost Prithvi Shaw, Ishan Kishan and skipper Shikhar Dhawan cheaply. Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga picked up three wickets, including the two openers, but India's tail wagged at the death to deny Sri Lanka victory, overhauling the target with five balls to spare. Yadav rallied India with some sublime strokeplay to reach his fifty before he was eventually dismissed for 53, trapped leg before by Lakshan Sandakan with 116 runs required to win. Hasaranga also removed Krunal Pandya, who was looking dangerous with a handy knock of 35 before he was bowled but Chahar, coming in at No.8, dug his heels in with an unbeaten 69.

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Chahar was well supported by vice-captain Bhuvneshwar Kumar (19 not out). Earlier, a fighting 65 off 68 balls from middle-order batsman Charith Asalanka propelled Sri Lanka to 9-275 in 50 overs. Asalanka walked in to bat with Sri Lanka 3-124 and held the innings together with Chamika Karunaratne, who remained made a quick-fire 44no off 33 balls.(AAP) Opting to bat after winning the toss, the hosts got off to a slow but steady start, with Avishka Fernando (50) and Minod Bhanuka (36) constructing a 77run opening stand. But both fell in quick succession as the Indian attack made the most of a slow wicket where runs were hard to come by. Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal was the pick of the Indian bowlers, finishing with 3-50 from his 10 overs while Bhuvneshwar (3-54) picked up the crucial wickets of half-centurions Fernando and Asalanka.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 2021