Guyana Chronicle E-paper 3-7-2020

SATURDAY 7th March, 2020

' No.105932

PPP supporters in violent protests …schoolchildren injured as David ‘G’ buses stoned

…policewoman wounded, citizens attacked, vehicles damaged …roads blocked, set on fire …man brandishes gun as protesters confront lawmen

SEE PAGES 16 & 17

Opposition roundly condemned for storming GECOM centre SEE PAGE 03

…several groups call on observers to denounce actions

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 7, 2020

‘I will not interfere with the processes at GECOM’ … President tells Caricom, OAS officials

DURING a meeting with Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Ambassador Irwin LaRocque and the Organization of the American States (OAS), President David Granger made it clear that he cannot interfere with the work of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and will await a final declaration before any action is taken.

His comments to the international representatives come at a time when the country awaits several

recounts of votes cast in the General and Regional Elections and the final declaration on the victors of the Elections. At the Ministry of the Presidency on Friday, the President told the Secretary-General that the March 2, 2020 Elections were orderly and in full compliance with the law and the Constitution.

However, the outstanding processes by the Commission have held up the final result and the President said that he clearly understands and wants the diplomatic community to

President David Granger meets with Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, at the Ministry of the Presidency (MOTP photo)

President David Granger meets with representatives of the Organisation of American States (OAS) at the Ministry of the Presidency (MOTP photo)

know that GECOM is an autonomous body which cannot be directed by the President.

“The Head of State reminded that GECOM is a Constitutional body and it is unlawful for the Executive to interfere in the operations of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). The President said also that it is not the role of the Executive to interfere in the work of the Commission. The President has not acted unlawfully,” a release from the Ministry of the Presidency stated.

The President said in clear terms to the international representatives: “We are awaiting the final declaration from GECOM.” The President has briefed also the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland and Chairman of CARICOM, Rt Hon. Mia Mottley via telephone.

On Friday the Head of State briefed diplomats from Britain, the United States of America, Canada and the European Union.

APNU+AFC urges citizens to remain calm, peaceful THE APNU+AFC Coalition has urged all Guyanese to respect the will of the people as exercised in the General and Regional Elections of Monday March 2, 2020.

Further, the APNU+AFC Coalition calls on all Guyanese to conduct themselves in a peaceful and law-abiding manner as they go about their daily activities.

The coalition’s call comes amid violent protests on the East Coast Demerara and on the West Berbice by supporters of the People’s Progressive Party. Party supporters openly brandished weapons; stoned David ‘G’ school buses resulting

in injuries to students and also blocked the roadways with fiery barricades.

However, the APNU+AFC has implored citizens to remain calm and not to engage in any act whatsoever to disrupt national life or cause any strife or inconvenience.

“APNU+AFC Coalition commends the hundreds of thousands of Guyanese who exercised their right to vote on Monday and who have remained calm and peaceful as we all await the final declaration of results by the Guyana Elections Commission,” the statement ended.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 7, 2020

Opposition roundly condemned for storming GECOM centre … several groups call on observers to denounce actions

THE opposition, People’s Progressive Party has been roundly condemned by a number of groups for invading the command centre of the Guyana Elections Commission between Wednesday night and the whole of Thursday.

Police Commissioner, Leslie James said that police have been justified in arresting three individuals at the Centre at High and Hadfield Streets due to disorderly behaviour which, it said, was led by leaders of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

In a statement, police said that around 15:00hrs, Thursday, GECOM’s Returning Officer (RO) of Region Four, Clairmont Mingo, was in the process of declaring the Region’s General and Regional Results for the 2020 Elections, when Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, Former At-

dette Singh, who was in her office, feeling unwell.

Mr. Nandlall was informed of her condition but he insisted that he must see her.

In doing so, Nandlall was joined by Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, Inspector Prem Narine of the Guyana Police Force Regional District 4 and other contesting party members and breached security and kicked open the door to the GECOM Chairperson and confronted her,” the police report stated.

It was reported that Senior Superintendent, Phillip Azore, and team intervened which led to the arrest of the three persons.

INTIMIDATING STAFF Meanwhile, a GECOM Commissioner told this newspaper that Jagdeo and other PPP heads were actively involved in intimidating the members of the Commission- all with

Narine was arrested. These people were tussling with the police in order to go through to the office. It is absolutely unacceptable that this could happen here.

They actually launched an attack on GECOM and the police were ineffective,” the commissioner said.

When it was rumoured that Justice Sing was ill, an ambulance with Emergency Medical Responders would later arrive at the scene with an oxygen bottle and other apparatus but they were not allowed to enter the office of the Chair, located on the second floor of the building. It was unclear who called in the Emergency Medical Responders but the Guyana Chronicle was reliably informed that it was not Justice Singh. A live Facebook feed from inside the building showed Jagdeo, telling International Observers that Justice (Ret’d) Singh was being

Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo pushes past police officers leading a crowd of angry persons up to the GECOM Chair’s office torney General, Anil Nandlall and other supporters started to make “loud and continuous protesting that he continue the verification process.”

Mingo allegedly withdrew himself and exited the location which was followed by Nandlall’s departure and return to the centre with three injunctions from the High Court to block the release and declaration of the results. “On his return to the location he tried desperately to have the court order served on GECOM Chairperson Justice Clau-

the intention to create confusion and fear at the centre. “Jagdeo called Roxanne Myers’ [Deputy Chief Elections Officer] name no less than ten times.

The entire scenario recounted by him showed that he engineered the entire attack by a mob but now telling the world that they were rescuing the Chairman,” the Commissioner said.

“The PPP Presidential candidate, Irfaan Ali, was part of that mob and some of the observers too. One of the observers- Anter

held against her will and the police was complicit. “Let’s see the Chair! Let’s see the Chair! Let’s see the Chair,” a number of persons were heard chanting amid heavy police presence within the facility.

The chants later turned into a physical confrontation with ranks of the GPF as the agents associated with the PPP and a number of other smaller political parties attempted to bulldoze their way into the room in which the GECOM Chair was located.

Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo and PPP Prime ministerial candidate, Mark Phillips, among others, lash out at the police for protecting the GECOM Chair. Others seen in the photo are PPP’s counting agent, Charles Ramson Jr and former President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and current PPP Candidate Deodat Indar office and among its per- must resolve our disagreeGRAVELY sonnel. It has also contrib- ments in accordance with DISAPPOINTING uted to the creation of a the stipulated legal process.

Meanwhile, in a vid- volatile situation in various The AFC as a partner eo statement, Campaign areas of the country where in the Coalition GovernM a n a g e r o f t h e A P - there are now sporadic in- ment gives our citizens the NU+AFC Joseph Harmon stances of unlawful behav- assurance that it will do said that it was gravely ior,” the AFC stated. “This all in its power to support disappointing that Ali and unsavory behaviour must be a resolution of the curJagdeo had barged into repudiated and condemned rent situation acceptable the building and stayed by all who would wish to to all stakeholders and beyond the lawful time for maintain Guyana’s democ- to have an appropriate which they were allowed racy. The AFC is encourag- review of our electoral arto be there. ing all Guyanese to remain rangements undertaken to He said that he had re- calm and to act at all times foster greater confidence ceived calls from persons in the interest of Guyana in the outcome of future who felt threatened by the and our democracy. We elections.” commotion and the eventual presence of heavily armed men. “I think this is a very serious act on the part of the PPP and certainly it is likely to damage the credibility of the information which is coming out of that facility. Certainly, it is something which, as a government, we condemn in the strongest possible terms and Mr. Ali or anyone, nobody should feel that they have the right to barge into a facility like that and demand information and threaten the persons who are there working.”

For its part the Alliance For Change (AFC), referred to the event as an “invasion” stating that the behaviour was unbecoming of persons who seek to become leaders of the country at the head of government.

“This display of hostility and hooliganism has created an atmosphere of fear and tension at GECOM’s

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2020

Coronavirus: Trump signs $8.3bn aid bill as cases rise

(BBC) US President Donald Trump has signed an $8.3bn (£6.4bn) emergency bill to combat the coronavirus outbreak.

With confirmed cases reaching 233 - in addition to 14 deaths - Mr Trump urged calm, adding: “It’ll go away.”

The White House has faced criticism for its response, and has acknowledged the US does not have enough test kits to meet rising demand.

Results are being awaited of tests on passengers on board a cruise ship being held off San Francisco, California.

Dozens of passengers were tested on Thursday after a passenger died and at least four others became infected on a previous voyage by the ship, the Grand Princess.

More than 100,000 coronavirus cases have been confirmed worldwide and over 3,400 deaths, according to data collated

by Johns Hopkins University. The majority of cases and deaths are in China, where the virus first emerged in December.

Stocks in Asia and the UK fell sharply on Friday as investors continued to worry about the broader economic effects of the virus.

What’s the latest across the US? Infections have been reported in 22 states throughout the country.

Thirteen of the 14 US fatalities were from the same nursing home in Seattle, Washington State.

City officials have recommended that Seattle residents aged 60 or older remain in their homes and cancel events with more than 10 people.

On Friday, the University of Washington said it would cancel classes for its 50,000 students - moving teaching online, instead - for the remainder of the winter term, which ends on 20 March.

The majority of US patients remain concentrated on the West Coast - combined, Washington state and California account for 141 of the 233 cases - but infections are now spreading across the country.

In New York, the number of confirmed cases jumped from 22 to 33 in just one day. Governor Andrew Cuomo said that there were 4,000 people under “precautionary quarantines”. They were people who have recently returned from places where the outbreak is most severe, including China, Italy, Iran, South Korea and Japan, but do not have any symptoms.

Bill Clinton claims Monica Lewinsky affair was to ‘help anxieities’ (BBC) Former President Bill Clinton says his affair with Monica Lewinsky was a way of managing his anxieties.

He made the remarks as part of a documentary series titled “Hillary” which looks at the public life of

2016 presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.

Mr Clinton was impeached in 1998 for lying to investigators about his relationship with Ms Lewinsky. He was acquitted at his Senate trial.

Ms Lewinsky was a

Saturday, March 07, 03:30hrs - 05:00 hrs Saturday, March 07, 14:30hrs - 16:00 hrs

22-year-old White House intern at the time of the affair.

Mr Clinton told the documentary markers: “What I did was bad but it wasn’t like I thought, let’s think about the most stupid thing I could possibly do and do it.”

“You feel like you’re staggering around - you’ve been in a 15-round prizefight that was extended to 30 rounds, and here’s something that’ll take your mind off it for a while. Everybody has life’s pressures and disappointments and terrors, fears or whatever, things I did to manage my anxieties for years.”

His relationship with Ms Lewinsky became a major news story in the late 1990s after the then-president first denied the affair before later admitting to “inappropriate intimate physical contact”.

Mr Clinton’s initial response to the media reports in 1998 - “I did not have sexual relations with that woman” - has gone down as one of US politics’ most memorable quotes.

Ms Lewinsky has maintained that her relationship with the former president was consensual but she called it a “gross abuse of power”.

“Any ‘abuse’ came in the aftermath, when I was

made a scapegoat in order to protect his powerful position...” she told Vanity Fair in 2014.

She said she had “limited understanding of the consequences” at the time and regrets the affair daily.

In the documentary Mr Clinton says he feels “terrible” that Ms Lewinsky’s life was defined by their relationship.

“Over the years I’ve tried to watch her get a normal life back again but you’ve got to decide how to define normal,” he said.

When asked about the incident, Mrs Clinton explained how devastated she was.

“I was so personally, just hurt and I can’t believe this, I can’t believe you lied. It was horrible and I said if this is going to be public, you have to go tell Chelsea.”

She explained how she “didn’t want anything to do with him” after news of the affair broke.

“I made a decision to stay with my husband. I think some people thought I made the right decision and some people thought I made the wrong decision.

Mr Clinton told the documentary-makers that telling their daughter Chelsea about the affair was “awful”.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2020

Several arrested following PPP supporters’ protest at Mon Repos, Lusignan

POLICE on Friday, March 6, 2020, were left with no other alternative but to fire tear gas and rubber bullets into a mob of supporters of People Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), who had blocked off the Lusignan Public Road, East Coast Demerara, by placing utility poles and burning tyres on the main road in protest.

The mob was protesting against the results declared by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and demanded a recount of the Region Four results.

The protestors claimed that the 2020 elections were “rigged” and blocked off both sections of the public road.

age of the road, but instead they told her that it was the only way that their cries would have been recognised.

“This is only one of the ways that they will be recognised or noticed that they are serious by what they mean by saying that they want democracy and they want they want their votes counted,” Veersammy said.

PPP member, Anil Nandlall, also spoke with the protestors and

attempted to control the crowd.

“I’m attempting to keep them calm and to keep them mobilised, it doesn’t appear that I will be able to get them off the road or send them home but I know the situation can develop,” Nandlall told the media.

He stressed that his presence was to ensure that there is peace and there is calm, but the supporters are very agitated and outraged

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by what has happened, “These people came out on their own volition, they came out on their own accord, with how frustrated they are,” Nandlall said.

As Nandlall spoke, the crowd listened to him attentively. He said, “You have the assurance from the PPP party that we will continue to do everything that is possible to protect the integrity of your votes and the electoral

A young lad with this placard

Female protestors refused to remove from the utility pole which was placed onto roadway block traffic in protest

Sheila Veersammy, a candidate for the PPP/C

In a sea of yellow, red and black, the PPP protestors were well armed with placards and their party flag and they marched down the Lusignan Road to the Mon Repos Market, E.C.D. From young to old were out in their numbers chanting words such as “we need a recount”, “my vote must count”, “when we stand, we stand for Guyana”, and “we are not standing for dictatorship.”

The elderly women sat on the utility poles, which was spread across the road and refused to move when ordered by the police.

“In my estimation, this is not a hostile crowd, the only thing that this crowd has so far done is that they blocked the road,” said Sheila Veersammy, a candidate for the PPP/C. She stressed she had warned the supporters about the block-

Priya D. Manickchand, a candidate for the PPP/C speaking with the crowd at Mon Repos

A section of the protestors with placards

The police at the scene after controlling the protestors

process and to secure your democracy.”

He urged the protesters to remain peaceful and calm and requested that they remove from the roadway.

“This is na a PPP protest! This is a people protest” the mob hurled at Nandlall.

“We shall win in the end and Irfaan Ali will be sworn in as president in the end” Nandlall declared as he explained that the party had already made an application for the region four votes be recounted.

Priya D. Manickchand, a candidate for the PPP/C spoke to the crowd at Mon Repos and told them to remain calm.

There was a high police presence as the ranks were on alert.

The ranks were also verbally assaulted by some of the supporters,

but this was not condoned by the senior officer on the scene.

However, as the protest went on, persons began setting more tyres on fire which caused the police riot squad to assemble. The fire tender was summoned and managed to extinguish the fire.

At that point, the police were ordering the protesters to return to their homes, however, this led to a confrontation after a man attacked a rank.

The ranks then fired tear gas and fired rubber bullets into the crowd. The crowd retreated and the police managed to control the situation. A male supporter who had brandished a firearm was also arrested.

Several males were arrested for attacking and throwing glass bottles at the police.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2020

A call for peace, unity and good sense THE March 2, 2020 Regional and General Elections will go down in our history books as one of the most widely-reported and hotly contested. On March 2, electors took to the polls in what was described as free and fair elections by locals, officials and international observers. The day went off without any notable incidents taking place, but as polling stations closed their doors at 6pm sharp, things started to take a turn off track.

Since then, there have been numerous controversies concerning attempts to circumvent the democratic process. The perpetrators are numerous, and include ordinary citizens, officials, political parties and even Russian spies. On Monday, twelve men were arrested in Alberttown, Georgetown, and it is alleged that they were attempting to remove Statements of Poll from the polling station.

It was also alleged that they were aligned with the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic and were seen at numerous polling stations throughout the city, accompanying other officials of said Party. There were also allegations of voter-fraud taking place due to fake ID cards being handed out. Tuesday was relatively quiet, as we learned the results of the elections from Regions throughout the country.

Wednesday saw the hospitalisation of the Returning Officer of Region 4, Clairmont Mingo, who reportedly fell ill during the tabulation of results. This incident became highly politicized, and

led to the proliferation of wild conspiracy theories and allegations of election rigging taking place. Since then, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has struggled to maintain control over the process. On Thursday, GECOM announced the long-awaited Region 4 results, however, there are claims that these results lack credibility and transparency, as they were not tabulated in the same way as the other Regions’ results were tabulated and declared.

Thursday saw a disintegration of order within GECOM’s house.

Members of the public gathered outside the building, as party after party attended the office, raising numerous concerns regarding the process. Matters came to a head as it was reported that Justice (retired) Claudette Singh, Chairperson of GECOM was barricaded inside her office amid troupes of persons attempting to forcibly gain access to her. The building was eventually cleared and the situation deescalated by the Guyana Police Force.

This week has laid bare many of numerous institutional and societal issues Guyana continues to grapple with as a developing nation. Although the week started out full of promise, we are now firmly within the realm of discontent. However, we must continue to move forward as one people, and one nation amid the uncertainty.

Therefore, citizens are urged to remain peaceful, employ good sense, and continue to be unified. Whatever the outcome of these

Observers overstepped their bounds

Dear Editor,

AS a Guyanese citizen, I must highly commend the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for a job well done. Indeed, managing elections at the national and the regional levels in a society that is profoundly divided along racial lines such as ours, with a system that is yet imperfect, given its heavy dependence on the human element, is no child’s play. In fact, it is an extremely difficult and treacherous job to get done.

Nevertheless, GECOM got it done. Therefore, commendations are in order. Well done GECOM! That, notwithstanding, there seems to have been certain very worrying issues that appeared to have impinged on the general functionality, work and independence of that Constitutional body (GECOM). I would like to comment briefly on two such issues that continue to titillate my mind: The Verification Process and Returning Officers (ROs), and the purpose of International and Local Observers of our electoral process here, in Guyana. First, as far as I am aware, Returning Officers are empowered to carry out certain

functions, including the responsibility to ascertain results from elections held in districts over which they have supervisory powers.

As far as I am aware, too, in ascertaining those results, Returning Officers are not particularly obliged to confer with anyone, apart from those officers who work under their supervision in their respective districts. One must therefore ask the question: What can stakeholders do if they are dissatisfied with results ascertained

by ROs? The answer could not be a massive collective increase in decibels while those results are being announced by ROs as has happened on Thursday at the GECOM office. That would result in making the entire process destitute of focus, and in fact, any semblance of good order. Surely, there must be another way of recourse to a practicable resolution.

Second, on the question of observers, it has to be said that all over the world, countries use international and local observers during their elections, particularly for the purpose of improving their electoral processes. For years, we, in Guyana have cherished and placed great store on the value,

[knowledge, experiences, and competencies] Observers bring to the advancement of our electoral process. Nevertheless, it seems quite clear to me, as a Guyanese, that those who have been accredited by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with Observer Status should not attempt to participate in the electoral process beyond observation. If they do, then they run the risk of compromising not only their noble and most valuable status as Observers, but also the entire electoral process activated by GECOM. The purpose of the observers is not to fix the process but to observe and report.

But from reports in certain sections of our local media, it seems to me that the clear and distinct line between observer-status and participators, or participating responsibility, has been troublingly blurred. This manifested itself on Thursday, March 5, 2020 in the crowding of the space of GECOM by some of the Observers. One is left with the serious question on what must be the acceptable distance that should exist between observers and the administration and staff at GECOM. I wonder if it is normal that observers get so close to the

process, to the point where they feel that they can exercise the right to enter into the offices of GECOM officials without being properly invited at such a sensitive time? Or is it usual, in some countries, including the countries of origins of some of the current observers in Guyana for its 2020 elections) for observers to proffer their opinions, seek interventions, and in any way influence electoral processes while the process is in progress? I have not been able to find examples of this behaviour in other countries by observers. I rather suspect that observers are expected to observe the conduct of elections, and at the conclusion of those processes involved submit their observations and recommendations to the respected and respective authorities to improve the systems, methods and approaches used to conduct free fair and credible elections. I am recommending, not as an observer, but as a Guyanese, that GECOM review the management and security of the space in which it operates.

Regards, Royston King

elections, we must all continue to live and work with each other for the betterment of this nation. Although many would argue that Guyana is a polarised and racially- divided country, more would argue that we are moving beyond that. The process of social cohesion is not one that takes place overnight; it is one that takes generations to accomplish through sustained commitment to creating a happy, content and unified people. Guyanese must not allow politics to widen or entrench feelings of division or discord.

Secondly, we must respect the rule of law. Society does not function if we do not respect the rule of law. No one is above the rule of law, and it is this fundamental, collective agreement that keeps our society moving forward. In this vein, GECOM must be allowed to undertake their work without undue interruption or influence from citizens, officials, parties, observers, the press or any other entity purporting to observe, interfere or obstruct their processes. Finally, let us remember that this beautiful land of Guyana is ours to make of it what we will. The decisions that we make today will continue to impact us beyond tomorrow, so let us make wise decisions borne out of love for one another, a commitment to the betterment and development of this nation, and to her peoples. Let us continue to move forward, respectfully of each other and without malice or hatred. Let peace, unity and good sense guide us forward.

Credible elections vital to peace and harmony

Dear Editor,

THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), wishes to state that the holding of free, fair and transparent elections is a vital tenet of democracy and for the promotion of unity, harmony and good relations. The credibility of the elections is therefore paramount. The Commission, having observed the voting process in some Polling Stations in five Administrative Regions found it to be free, fair, transparent and conducted in an atmosphere of peace. However, the declaration of results for Region 4, after an incomplete verification process, has now cast doubts over the credibility of the March 02 General and Regional Elections. Having delivered a credible voting process, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is urged, in the best interest of peace and harmony, to safeguard the integrity of the elections by ensuring that the verification and tabulation process, as reflected in The Representation of the People Act, is followed. Transparency of this process becomes foremost. The historical lessons and the inevitable consequences over elections, must guide during this sensitive period. All stakeholders, therefore, have a responsibility to work assiduously to ensure that the prevailing tension does not escalate. The Commission also urges political Leaders to work in the best interest of the country by endeavouring to diffuse tension, and not to encourage behaviour that is counterproductive to peace and unity. The need for responsible utterances and actions by all is reiterated, as peace and unity are in our hands. The Commission will continue to work to the best of its ability to aid the promotion of harmony and good relations, especially during this period.

All are, therefore, urged to meaningfully do his/her part.

Regards, Ethnic Relations Commission

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2020

CGID slams Owen Arthur’s comments on Guyana elections results Dear Editor,

Justice Claudette Singh. The presence of those individuals violated the Laws of GuyON Thursday Mr. Clairmont Mingo, ana Chapter 1:03 (91). CGID is appalled that the Returning officer of Election District the Guyana Police Force allowed this inva4 (Demerara-Mahaica) declared the sion of GECOM’s office to occur. Overseas much- anticipated election results for his observers have failed to condemn this hooliDistrict.

The results established that the incum- ganism and lawlessness from the PPP. Some bent APNU+AFC coalition won the March observers, including James Carter III from 2, 2020 general elections. Earlier in the day, the Carter Center, appear to be collaborating the Opposition PPP released a document and coordinating with the PPP. In response to the District 4 declaration, with purported results showing a PPP victory, bearing inflated votes for that party Mr. Owen Arthur, former Prime Minister of in polling stations within Region District 4. Barbados, who is Chairman of the CommonUpon closer examination, the document was wealth Observer Mission, falsely stated that dated February 29, 2020, an indication that it “The tabulation of the final election results was generated in some form two days before has not yet been completed and verified the March 2, 2020 elections. When citizens according to the established procedures and began questioning the date of the document relevant legal and statutory provisions.” Mr. on social media, it was pulled and the date Arthur is obviously uninformed of the laws changed to March 5, 2020 and republished. of Guyana and the constitutional powers of The declaration had been previously GECOM. This statement is consistent with disrupted multiple times by a mob of PPP PPP talking point. CGID questions Mr. Arexecutives and other known street thugs, thur’s objectivity. He is a longtime associate who, armed with guns, under the cover of of Bharrat Jagdeo, who should never have been accredited by the Commonwealth. darkness stormed the Guyana Elections Mr. Arthur and his team cannot dictate Commission (GECOM) District 4 office to GECOM, or interfere with its work. He demanding access to GECOM’s computer and his team are departing from an observer equipment. Later in the day, said individuals mission to intruding and interfering in Guykicked down the door to the Chairman of the ana’s electoral process in favour of the PPP. Guyana Election Commission (GECOM), Guyana’s elections laws mandate a specific

procedure for challenging actions and declarations of GECOM. That process does not entail complaints to and coercive missives from observers. It requires the filing of an elections petition in the court.

CGID notes that in 1997, the PPP government used the exact process to declare the elections results. In that election, then PPP hacks at GECOM secretly declared and certified the PPP winner, and secretly swore in Mrs. Janet Jagan as President. When a marshal of the Supreme Court attempted to serve Mrs. Jagan with an injunction from then Chief Justice Desiree Bernard, Mrs. Jagan threw the court order to the ground and proceeded to be sworn in. PPP leaders, including Bharrat Jagdeo, argued then that the courts cannot interfere with GECOM and its processes.

CGID therefore asks if GECOM in 1997 could have declared results in favour of the PPP without a specific public verification procedure, what prevents GECOM from doing so in 2020? If the courts had no power to interfere in GECOM processes in 1997, why is the PPP seeking the intervention of the court in GECOM’s processes in 2020.

Regards, Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy (CGID)

Our democracy is precious Dear Editor,

THE Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha is deeply concerned about the occurrences at the Guyana Elections Commission over the past few days which culminated in the purported declaration of the results for Region 4 without the required verification process being completed as required by law.

Our democracy is precious, and must be maintained and defended. Elections offer Guyanese an opportunity to vote for a government of their choice, and GECOM is responsible for conducting free and fair elections with honesty, integrity and transparency in strict accordance with our laws.

The international and local observers,

Diplomatic community and contesting parties have all stated that the results announced for Region 4 lack credibility, and have called for the legally-required verification process, using the statements of poll to be resumed as soon as possible. We join this call, and strongly urge GECOM, including its Chairperson, Commissioners, Chief Executive Officer, Regional Officer and staff, to complete the process in accordance with our laws, so that an accurate result of Region 4, and the elections as a whole, could be announced and legitimacy given to the elections. Any attempt to swear in a President without following the correct legal procedures would be illegal, and bring our country into disrepute, and the legitimacy of any government so formed into question.

We congratulate the people of Guyana for turning out in large numbers to participate in the elections, thereby showing great commitment to preserving democracy in our beautiful country. The unwarranted delays have led to mounting frustration and tensions.

Daily activities have come to a virtual standstill, and your patience is being tested. We urge you to remain calm and peaceful. GECOM and the political parties must be responsible and uphold our constitution and laws. The wellbeing of Guyana and its people should be your only priority. Let democracy prevail.

Regards, Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha

I appeal to all for good sense to prevail Dear Editor, AFTER viewing the events on Thursday, March 5, 2020 as reported by the media houses covering the verification process of Region 4 at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Centre on High and Hadfield Streets, I am respectfully appealing to the Chair and Commissioners of GECOM and to the leadership of the contesting political parties to ensure that verification of the Statements of Poll and the Declaration of the Results by the Returning Officer of District 4, and the Official Declaration of Results of the

2020 National and Regional Elections by the Chief Elections Officer be in compliance with the relevant Act and the Constitution of Guyana.

To deviate in District 4 from a process that was reportedly applied relatively smoothly in the nine other Districts, and to treat apparently dismissively with the genuine concerns raised by the contesting parties, as well as those raised by local and international accredited Observers, is to court disaster.

I hold no brief for any political party, but am an advocate for the right of every citizen to have his or her vote accurately attributed to the political party of choice,

and for the accurate tabulation, verification and declaration of the results. To do otherwise is to taint the democratic process with allegations of fraud, to insult the intelligence of Guyanese, and to incur the criticism and sanctions of the international community.

Such a scenario will exacerbate the lack of confidence in national institutions, betray the inviolability of the Constitution, and set a poor example to the younger generations of Guyanese. More immediately, it will fuel tensions among supporters of the political parties whose expectations have been raised and those who will feel cheated. Arbitrary decisions that are based on self-interest and

which are patently inconsistent with the Constitution, will take us down a slippery slope of confusion and chaos that will have far reaching consequences for our plural society and for Guyana’s future.

I appeal to all for good sense to prevail, to pull back from the precipice and in a mature, responsible and patriotic manner seek to urgently resolve the current crisis facing our democracy.

Yours sincerely, Joseph G Singh Major General (retd) Former Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence

Giftland and Private Sector have double standards Dear Editor, STABROEK News unilaterally terminated their contract with the Government because they thought the electorate would kick out the APNU-AFC Government after the No-Confidence Motion. The Government simply found new understanding working partners. After a few months, Stabroek News returned and discovered that their service was no longer needed. They went on a crying campaign, to no avail.

Fast forward today. The owner of Giftland Mall is taking similar line of action. His argument is that Region 4’s votes need to be verified. Nobody would deny that, but for it to occur unimpeded, then the PPP needs to stop invading GECOM and threatening its staff. They need to stop kicking down the office door of the Madam Chairwoman. They need to stop threatening the employees. They need to stop their bomb threats. In essence, the safety of the employees is more important than verification. The GECOM has a duty of care to their employees and visitors.

My concern is that the Guyanese people have experienced worse in the recent past under the PPP. The Beepat family was completely silent. Guyanese were murdered; innocently incarcerated for treason; a phantom squad taking over the security of our country, led by a convicted drug lord; a sitting Minister was murdered; pervasive corruption; Guyana was reduced to a narco-state; court papers were thrown over the shoulders of a presidential candidate when Guyana was experiencing a similar electoral problem and much more. Where was the “patriotic” Beepat family?

The PSC and the Beepat family are not bothered about the interest of Guyana. Don’t let them fool you!

They are interested in their business empires. If they were interested in Guyana, with their quasi-patriotism, they would have acted when PPP destroyed Guyana by inflicting those horrible aforementioned atrocities. The PPP refused to allow the DEA into Guyana, but this Government allowed them in, recognising that drugs were destroying our youths.

The government has shown leadership, and is acting in your interest. You rightfully voting them back into office is commendable. There is one other favour I wish to ask. Give Giftland Mall the Stabroek News treatment. Whenever they reopen, simply tell them, “Sorry mate, we found a mall closer to the wise folks at the University of Guyana.” Show them that the costumer is always boss.

Regards, Dr. Mark Devonish

Joint statement from International Observers in Guyana THE international observer missions from the Commonwealth, the Organization of American States, the European Union, and The Carter Center issue the following statement: The tabulation of results for the election in Region 4 was interrupted and remains incomplete. The law requires that tabulation must be conducted in the presence of party agents and observers. Until this transparent process takes place, the counting of votes recorded for Region 4 remains incomplete.

The transparent tabulation of results for Region 4 must be resumed in order to proceed to the establishment of national results. A calm and conducive environment must be provided by the police. We urge all political parties to adhere to the codes of conduct signed by them.

The Guyana Elections Commission, including the chairperson, the commissioners, the chief election officer, the returning officer and deputy returning officers in Region 4 must be available and committed to establish the results for Region 4 in accordance with the law. Until this occurs, the result of these elections cannot be credibly declared.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 7, 2020

Harmon calls on Opposition to rein in supporters DIRECTOR-General of the Ministry of the Presidency and co-campaign manager of the coalition APNU+AFC has called on the leaders of the Opposition Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) to issue peace orders to its supporters following violent protests on the East Coast of Demerara and Berbice on Friday.

Harmon noted on Friday evening that while the country awaits the results of Monday’s elections, the protest action which resulted in many being injured, was undertaken based on the inferences of the intellectual authors within the PPP and their calls for their supporters to get engaged in sorts of ‘lawlessness” as seen in various coastal regions on Friday.

“So this is not a good situation, and we would like to have this matter dealt with quickly,” he said.

He called on the PPP/C hierarchy to exercise leadership, and refrain from the physical damage which occurred on Friday. Harmon said children were injured simply because they were travelling in a ‘David G’ school bus.

He called on the PPP/C to ensure that the country does not degenerate into ‘strife’, noting that Guyana is a blessed country. He said that President David Granger

Co-manager of the APNU+AFC elections campaign, Joseph Harmon

has already issued a call for calm during this time, and for the population to act with restraint.

Harmon also called on his party supporters to not to be provoked, noting it is part of a plan by the PPP/C to make the country ungovernable. He said he is convinced that Guyanese are right-thinking, and are familiar with what is at stake for the country at the moment.

Harmon said the numbers show clearly that the APNU+AFC are well ahead of any of the other political parties following the elections.

He said the next step should be for a declaration to be made by the Chief Elections Officer, followed by a meeting of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)

and confirmation of the results by the commission. Thereafter, the chair of GECOM sends a statement to the Chancellor of the Judiciary who will act to have the President sworn in.

He said the Commission should have met on Friday to conclude the process when the PPP/C served an injunction on it.

Harmon said the Chair of the Commission, Retired Justice Claudette Singh decided she will follow what the court says, and agreed that the procedure for swearing-in will be put on hold and the parties will go to court this morning where the injunction will be heard.

He said the APNU+AFC expects the situation to be treated with some amount of speed.

Guyana Police Force warns persons to desist from unlawful acts while protesting THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) said it notes, with concern, events that occurred on Friday March 6, 2020 in a number of Regional Police Divisions.

“The force respects the inalienable rights of citizens, visitors and inhabitants of the State of Guyana to engage in peaceful demonstration on issues of concern to them,” said Jairam Ramlakhan, Superintendent of Police and Public Relations and Press Officer of the Guyana Police Force, said in a press release on Friday evening.

“To this end, ranks of the GPF maintained their posture of restraint.

Nevertheless, some persons decided to engage in unlawful acts which resulted in injuries to six police ranks and damage to properties including infrastructure of the State,” the police PRO said.

“However, when protest activities degenerate into public disorder, infringing on the rights of

This man was seen with what appeared to be a handgun during one of the protests on Friday

other citizens and putting the protection of life and the safeguard of property at risk, the Guyana Police Force will, as a consequence, take appropriate and condign action against all offenders. Be warned!” said Ramlakhan.

Guyana Goldfields announces officer's departure

GUYANA Goldfields Inc., in a release, said that Suresh Kalathil, the Company’s Senior Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), has left the Company effective March 5, 2020. At this time, the company does not plan on filling the COO position.

Alan Pangbourne, President and CEO of the

Company, said, “We thank Suresh for his contributions over the last year and wish him well in his future endeavours.”

At the time of his appointment in January 2019, Mr. Kalathil had more than 25 years’ experience working as a mining engineer in open pit and underground operations and major

projects around the world. The company said that he is a Certified First-Class Mine Manager and a trained Six Sigma ‘Black Belt’.

Mr. Kalathil joined Guyana Goldfields from IAMGOLD Corporation, where he served as General Manager of the Rosebel Gold Mine in Suriname.

Guyana Goldfields Inc. is a Canadian mid-tier gold producer primarily focused on the exploration, development and operation of gold deposits in Guyana, South America.

Guyana Goldfields Inc. is the principal behind Aurora Gold Mines which is operating in Guyana.

ACDA condemns rise in racial slurs THE African Cultural & Development Association (ACDA) has noted, and condemned, the rise in derogatory racial slurs and threats being made in social media and publicly against people of African Descent.

In a release, ACDA said it views the statements, made on the current election controversy by the International Observers

and some of the Foreign Missions here in Guyana, as irresponsible and unhelpful to the best interest of the nation and only aids in fueling discord in an already ethnically cleaved society. “We call on all sides to demonstrate restraint and for a speedy resolution to the current impasse,” ACDA said.

Ministry of Public Security warns of fake GPF Facebook page THE Ministry of Public Security is asking persons to be wary of the Facebook page purporting to be the official page of the Guyana Police Force, but which has been found to be a fake page aimed at spreading misinformation.

In a press release on Friday, March 06, 2020, Mary C. Adams, Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Public Security, said, “Please be advised that there is a

FAKE PAGE under the name ‘The Guyana Police Force’ purporting to be the official Facebook page of the Guyana Police Force.

The page has recently released inaccurate information regarding the Hon. Minister Khemraj Ramjattan.

PLEASE TAKE NOTE that the Official Facebook page of the Guyana Police Force is: ‘Guyana Police Force’.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 7, 2020

PPP/C supporters attack school buses, injure cop

By Svetlana Marshall THREE school children were rushed to the Fort Wellington Public Hospital after the bus they were in came under attack by violent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) supporters in Bush Lot on the West Coast of Berbice (WCB), Region Five. Another school bus was also attacked in the vicinity of Bat Settlement, WCB. The Fort Wellington Secondary School students, ages 13, 14 and 15, were heading home from school at around 12:30hrs in one of the David ‘G’ Buses when the PPP/C supporters started hurling stones and other large objects at the bus, shattering the back windscreen in the process.

At the time, the supporters were protesting the move by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to declare Region Four votes although the verification process had not been completed.

The protest, however, was far from peaceful. The PPP/C supporters had set on fire a number of tyres and other debris on the main access road –

thereby blocking any ingress or egress, despite pleas from ranks of the Guyana Police Force for them to disperse and go home.

When the Guyana Chronicle visited the Fort Wellington Public Hospital, two of the students had already been treated for minor lacerations about their bodies and another undergoing medical attention. According to doctors at the health institution, one of the three children suffered

head injuries.

Under adult supervision, one of the victims told the Guyana Chronicle that they were making their way home when the bus was stoned down. Clearly traumatised, the teen, who resides at Belladrum with her grandmother, could not hold back the tears as she detailed the incident.

“While we were heading towards Bush Lot, an Indian guy, he pelted the bus back and the glass scrapped my

hands,” the student recalled.

At the time, the 15-year-old student was sitting at the back of the bus with her colleagues. “The lady in the bus said everyone bend down, and put your bag over your head,” she further recalled.

A similar incident took place at Bath, in which a David ‘G’ Bus transporting children came under siege.

People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) Region Five Chair, Vinceroy

Jordan, said it was not only unfortunate, but unacceptable that protestors would attack children proceeding home from school. “The children were in the provided David ‘G’ School Bus, which is David ‘G’ No. 1, and the residents of Bush Lot Village they started pelting objects towards the bus, and they have since shattered the windscreen of the bus, and injured three children,” he reported.

PPP/C supporters blocking the main access road at Bush Lot

The arm of the injured 15-year-old Fort Wellington Secondary School student (Adrian Narine photos)

One of the two David ‘G’ School buses which came under attack on the West Coast of Berbice. In this photo, Regional Transport Officer of Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice), Nigel Wilson, points to the rear windscreen of the David ‘G’ School Bus which was damaged by PPP supporters in Bush Lot West Coast Berbice while taking home school children

Jordan reported too, that in Bath Settlement, the bus was swarmed by the protesting PPP/C supporters. “The bus was held hostage for a period of time but to say exactly what happened after, I would not be able to say, but in Bush Lot, I know for a fact that the Police Commander vehicle was damaged and the school bus, the windscreen was shattered,” he told this newspaper.

Regional Transport Officer of Region Five (Mahaica/ Berbice), Nigel Wilson, told the Guyana Chronicle that the bus, which came under attack in Bath Settlement, was transporting children from school en route to Rosignol and Blairmont.

Up to press time, no arrest has been made in connection with these two incidents. The Latchman Singh Primary School and Bush Lot Secondary School were in session on Friday morning but a decision was subsequently taken to dismiss school at mid-day in light of the violent protest.

The students of the Latchman Singh Primary School and Bush Lot Secondary School were sent home after the protest turned violent on the Bush Lot Public Road, WCB (Adrian Narine photo)

Linden Learners display creativity at STEAM Fair

By Vanessa Braithwaite LEARNERS representing nursery, primary and secondary schools in Region 10, on Friday, proved their abilities to be innovative and their desire to pursue the path of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) at the Region 10 STEAM Fair that was held at the Wisburg Secondary School.

Under the supervision of their teachers, learners presented highly ingenious and unique projects befitting of science, mathematics, arts and engineering. They further wowed viewers with their bravery and eloquence in explaining and presenting their projects. Even the

nursery children stunned the onlookers with their mathematics-oriented games and science projects.

The Pine Street Nursery School presented its game: ‘Fun with Numbers’, which was a collaboration of a number wheel, number dice and a numeral hopscotch game.

Year Two presenters, Azariah Moore and Kaira Benjamin, explained to spectators that the game was an invention of their teachers and aimed to make mathematics fun for children, particularly those who do not like to count. They placed second in the nursery category.

Placing first was the Children’s Garden Nursery in the Science Category and the One Mile Nursery in the

Mathematics Category.

In the Primary Category, the One Mile Primary School had one of the most innovative presentations, with an entire sitting room set made out of disposed newspapers. Their project, Cyperus Papyrus Techniques, proved to be one of the most eye-catching projects at the fair with a double couch and table along with other objects made strictly from newspaper. They copped the first position in the primary category.

The Amelia’s Ward Primary's Lemon Aroma project proved that cleaning agents can be produced from locally-sourced ingredients such as lemon and lemon grass herb. They explained that, if

used, the need of buying foreign products on the market will be limited.

At the secondary level, the New Silver City Secondary School created an entire bedroom set, including a bed, out of bamboo. It was deemed extremely creative.

The Mackenzie High School presented its Vessolar Society Project that highlighted the need to shift to renewable energy by using electrically charged vehicles.

Other secondary schools that participated included the Linden Foundation Secondary School and the Christianburg Wismar Secondary School.

The Regional Science Fair was held under the theme “Envisioning the future through innovation and

STEAM: Decade of Development.”

At the opening ceremony, Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell, congratulated the Region 10 Department of Education for hosting such a timely initiative. She said Linden is moving towards sustainable development and it is important that students come on the path of the green agenda.

“It is important for our community today to realise the importance of science and technology. Over the years, our youths in Linden have been able to benefit from these programmes,” she said.

The mayor commended the students for presenting very unique ideas and to push for the projects to be accepted in

local markets and be accepted on a national level.

“Of course we can take these new ideas and help develop our systems in the future. It will help us to move in the 21st century and not be left behind as a country. With oil comes a lot of things and it also brings the world to Guyana,” she said.

Also addressing the students was Regional Education Officer, Rabindra Singh. The winning projects are expected to be featured at the National STEAM Fair that will be held in Georgetown later in the year. Other projects saw culinary invention, learning games and creative projects made from recycled material.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 7, 2020

Carter Center urges Guyanese to be calm, patient -- says electoral process still ongoing

By Navendra Seoraj IN light of civil unrest in parts of the country, International Observer Mission, the Carter Center, which is observing the ongoing General and Regional Elections, has called for Guyanese to be calm and exercise patience as they await the “official” completion of the electoral process.

The civil unrest followed the declaration of results for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), on Thursday, by the region’s Returning Officer (RO), Clairmont Mingo. According to those results, the incumbent A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Chance (APNU+AFC) Coalition received 136,458 votes and the PPP/C received 77,329 votes.

The Carter Center believes that the process is not over and there is still an opportunity for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to re-establish and salvage the process, and have a credible election.

Among the actions, which the mission believes could be taken by GECOM, is a recount of the ballots for Region Four – similar to the ones ongoing in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

Additionally, other activities and tabulation can be done in the presence of party agents and observers.

Following the declaration of the results for Region Four, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and five other contesting parties said it will request a recount of the

Co-Chair of the Carter Center, Jason Carter

ballots in this region.

“Be patient as we await the finalisation of the process… people need to know that the process is not over and is still ongoing…we ask for peace, calm and patience on the part of the Guyanese people,” said Co-Chair of the Carter Center, Jason Carter, during a press briefing at the Pegasus Hotel, on Friday.

While the process is yet to be completed, Carter believes that GECOM needs to be clear and speak out about what exactly is going on. He said the country went a whole day without hearing from GECOM about the status of the outstanding issues.

“Speak out and let people know what is going on, report on the status for the district four recount and say when we will see additional results with respect to Region Four,” said Carter, adding that if there is no information from GECOM, there will be rumours and misinformation

in the public.

He said the center sought updates from GECOM, but there were only informal communications throughout the day, on Friday. According to Carter, there was no “observable activity” at the office of the Returning Officer for Region Four on Friday.

Although the Carter Center is encouraging GECOM to continue the process, Carter made it clear that the mission and other observers do not stand with any political party.

The center stands for a fair, transparent and credible election process.

The Carter Center had observed elections when the PPP/C was elected in the past, and it also observed the 2015 elections when the incumbent APNU+AFC Coalition was elected to office. And, each time the presence of party agents, the ability to scrutinise the tabulation process and the ability to have a transparent process gave the center faith

in the elections.

As it is now, the center said his mission does not know who won the elections and they do not know if the numbers, which were declared on Thursday, are accurate. GECOM is the only authority that can provide those results.

There have been reports about the Carter Center and other observer missions “overstepping its bounds,” but according to Carter, there is a code of conduct with respect to international election observation and a set of “strict standards” that the center is using and abiding by.

CHAOTIC AND INAPPROPRIATE While on the topic of standards and conduct, Carter said the center, on Thursday, observed that the environment at Mingo’s office was chaotic and inappropriate at times.

“We are disheartened by the partisan activities that occurred with respect to the chair and on the third floor of the GECOM offices. The verification process, while it was ongoing, was conducted in an orderly and calm way and we saw partisan activities occur after the declaration of results that we have been discussing,” he lamented.

Although there were issues, Carter said the vast majority of the electoral process was smooth, transparent and it was one which the center would have faith in, if they could get the tabulation of results in Region Four.

PPP urges supporters to remain calm …'Stay home and await further guidance’

AMID protest actions on the East Coast and Bath Settlement on Friday, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has called on all of their supporters to remain calm and act in a peaceful manner during this period.

In a statement, the party said “while we understand the hurt, frustration and fear, we have the solidarity of the international community.” The opposition party said that statements have also been made by the diplomatic community, the international election observer missions, the US State Department, the representatives of the United States of America (USA) Congress, British Parliamentarian, Barry Gardiner; The Elder, an international NGO founded by Nelson Mandela, and other international organizations, as well as local stakeholders. They have all made it clear that, as it stands, results of the Elections cannot be “credibly declared” and there can be no swearing in of a president since such an action would be illegal.

“The PPP agrees with the international community; there can be no swearing in of a new president under the current circumstances. The Party wishes to also warn that public officers, especially constitutional office holders, facilitating such an illegal action would be complicit in the perpetuation of electoral fraud in Guyana. The Party also agrees with the international community that there must be a return to the process of verifying the results of the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections for Region 4, using the Statements of Polls, as required by law. This is the only process that will deliver free and fair elections and ensure that the will of the Guyanese people is not subverted.

The People’s Progressive Party continues to work towards this objective. The PPP urges supporters to ensure that none of their actions is in contradiction with the laws of Guyana; stay home and await further guidance from the Party,” the statement ended.

Calls for resumption of verification of SOPs THE Heads of Mission of the Embassy of the United States of America, H.E. Sarah-Ann Lynch; the British High Commission, H.E. Greg Quinn; the Canadian High Commission, H.E. Lilian Chatterjee; and the Delegation of the European Union, H.E Fernando Ponz-Canto, have expressed deep concern over what it described as credible allegations of electoral fraud which may influence the results of this election.

The diplomats did not provide proof of their claims, but have called on all to ensure proper procedures are in place to yield a credible election result.

The diplomats said a fair and

free process is vital for the maintenance and reinforcement of democracy in Guyana. “We call on President Granger to avoid a transition of government which we believe would be unconstitutional as it would be based on a vote tabulation process that lacked credibility and transparency,” the diplomats said.

United Nations resident Coordinator, Mikiko Tanaka, in a statement, said the UN was following with concern, the latest developments in Guyana.

“We take note of the statements issued by international observers and ambassadors accredited in Georgetown raising concerns regarding lack of compliance with national legal procedures and the

need to resume the tabulation of results for Region Four,” the UN official said. “We encourage the relevant Guyanese authorities to finalise the process in a manner which leaves no doubts as to the credibility of the results that reflect the will of the Guyanese people. The United Nations calls upon all sides to act with calm, patience and in full respect of human rights, the rule of law and Guyana’s constitutional order.”

Meanwhile, the CARICOM Observation Mission, in a statement, said it accepts that the tabulation process which commenced on Wednesday March 4, 2020 using the statements of poll and which was in accord with the legislative provisions

of Section 84 of the Representation of the People Act Cap 1.03 Revised Edition of the Laws of Guyana, was interrupted and remains incomplete. Furthermore, it is evident that the transparent tabulation of results for Region Four must be resumed under the independent control of the Returning Officer, as these scores are necessary and critical, in order to determine the outcome of the national poll.

“Like in other regions in Guyana, it is imperative that the Returning Officer be allowed to carry out his functions independent of any influence or directive from the GECOM Secretariat. Until this occurs, the outcome of

the elections of March 2, 2020, cannot be reliably proclaimed.

In this regard, the mission supports the Joint Statement issued on March 6, 2020, by International Observer Missions from the Commonwealth, the Organization of American States, the European Union and The Carter Center and urges GECOM to proceed with the establishment of the results for Region Four, in accordance with the law. The mission appeals to the political parties and the people of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana to co-operate with the process, by honoring the subscribed codes of conduct.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 7, 2020

Examining the Representation of the People Act SECTIONS of The Representation of the People Act are clear on what should take place regarding the counting of votes polled at General and Regional Elections and Guyanese must understand for themselves the guidelines to the procedure.

Section 84 (1) states that when the Returning Officer (RO) is in receipt of all necessary ballot boxes, envelopes and packets, it is the RO that must “ascertain the total votes cast in favour of each list” in the district by adding up the Statements of Polls (SOPs).

According to Section 86 (1), the RO must do this in the presence of any such other elections officers as he may appoint to assist him in the counting; members of the Commission; duly appointed candidates; counting agents and such other persons, in the RO’s opinion, which have reason to be present.

Following the counting of the SOPs, the RO must publicly declare the votes recorded for each list of candidates. Should an error be discovered on an SOP by the RO within the district, the Presiding Officer (PO) shall be informed and stipulations are given on how the said error should be corrected. Apart from this, it is only after the declaration of results in particular district by the RO that a request for a recount can be made.

Section 84 (2) states: “Where before twelve noon of the day following the declaration under subsection (1) any counting agent for the local authority area does not request the Returning Officer to conduct a final count of the votes counted by the presiding officers in the local authority area under section 93, the declaration of the votes obtained by the lists for both components of the election under subsection (1) shall be final; but where any counting agent for the local authority area seeks a final count of the votes already counted by the presiding officer in the local

authority area under section 93, the Returning Officer shall count such votes in accordance with the provisions contained in the following subsection and on the basis of such recount confirm or vary the declaration of the votes recorded in the local authority area or constituencies, as the case may be, for each list of candidates under 23 subsection (1).”

According to Section 84 (3) the counting agent who requests a final count must indicate whether he requests a general or limited count and, should the latter be requested the RO for the district “shall conduct the count as requested”.

Section 84 (4) states that the RO shall only review only the decisions of the PO regarding questioned and rejected ballot papers in polling places specified in the request for the final count.

ballot papers, received from all polling places, and where he agrees with the decision of the PO mark the ballots as “confirmed”; where he disagrees mark as “varied” and where the “Q” and where duly appointed candidate or any counting agents in the district disagree with the RO’s judgement. All ballots marked by the RO must have his initials. There are also clear stipu-

written statement as to the result of the verification and allow for it to be publicly declared and deliver the same to the Chief Elections Officer.

Section 96 (1) states that the CEO, upon calculating the total number of valid votes-based on votes counted and the information provided by ROs, shall as-

lations on how the counting should take place.

Upon conclusion of the final count, Chapter 89 (1) states that the votes, in the presence of such persons entitled in section 86 (1), should be sealed, the counted and rejected ballots in separate packets; verify the ballot accounts given by each PO; reseal the packets of unused and spoiled ballots; prepare a

certain the result of the election in accordance to the allocation of seats outlined in Section 97 and the membership of the national assembly outlined in section 98.

A report should then be prepared no later than 15 days after the elections and publicly declare the results and cause the same to be published in the Gazette.

Snippets of the Representation of the People Act

“Where a limited final count is conducted, the Returning Officer shall review only the decisions of the presiding officers as regards questioned and rejected ballot papers at the polling places specified in the request for the final count, and in such a case all ballot papers marked “Q” by the presiding officers of those polling places and all ballot papers rejected by then shall be examined by the Returning Officer,” Section 84 (5) indicates.

In a request for a general recount, the RO must review all used ballot papers, including rejected

Results of Monday’s polls should reflect will of electorate- AFC THE Alliance For Change (AFC) has said that the outcome of Monday’s elections should reflect the political will of the electorate.

In a statement, the AFC said, as a partner in the APNU+AFC Coalition, it notes the concerns that have arisen regarding the declaration of results for the General and Regional elections of March 2, 2020.

According to the party, despite some concerns about the process in certain regions, the AFC believes that the elections were

generally well conducted within the provisions of the Representation of the People Act. “We take note that some of the international observers have expressed similar sentiments and have commended the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on its conduct of the Elections. We therefore regret that an otherwise orderly process has become marred by the unfortunate events relating to the declaration of the results for Region 4,” the party said.

According to the AFC the entire

nation has placed its confidence in GECOM’s ability to conduct these elections in a manner that is in keeping with the legal requirements and which maintains the credibility of the process.

“GECOM is the constitutional body which is legally empowered to conduct Elections and to make decisions and declarations relating to the outcome of those Elections.” The AFC said it firmly believes that the outcome of that process should reflect the political will of the

electorate. “Equally, it is the AFC’s position that there is a clear legal process to be followed if there are disagreements with GECOM’s decisions and we urge all concerned – political parties and observers - to embrace and, where appropriate, utilise those processes. All concerns and objections must be clearly documented and addressed within the framework of the law.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 7, 2020

GPSU condemns lawless and irresponsible behaviour –– at Region Four RO’s office THE Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) commended the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for what it called a smooth and transparent “elections day” voting process.

In a press release, on Friday, the GPSU said it viewed the March 2 elections as, free, fair and free from fear.

“We also commend the electors for their patience and the orderly manner in which they went about casting their ballots and, the Guyana Police Force for the professional manner in which they discharged their duties,” the

release said.

The Union, which is a local GECOM accredited observer and a major stakeholder representing Public Sector workers’ interest, has observed polling at hundreds of polling stations across five administrative regions and recognizes that, it has an obligation to bring to the attention of GECOM Officials, and the electorate at large, matters, which, in the Union’s opinion, are likely to jeopardise the credibility of the election’s process.

In accordance with the Representation of the People’s Act Cap

1:03; Part 9; section 85 (1) “The election agent of each group of candidates may appoint one of the candidates, hereinafter in this part referred to as the ‘duly appointed candidate’ to attend at the counting of the votes in a district.”

The GPSU said that the presence of a large number of persons within the counting area of the Returning Officer’s Office in District 4, contravenes the aforementioned act. “This should have been censured by several senior political operatives, including the PPP/C Presidential Candidate Mr. Ifraan

GTUC condemns ‘unruly’ invasion of GECOM by Opposition …operatives threatened, roughed-up GECOM workers GUYANA Trades Union Congress (GTUC) said it was surprised and disappointed to see footage of an invasion of GECOM by opposition forces on the pretext that their interest was the safety of GECOM’s Chair, Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh.

At the centre of the invasion was Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, former president of Guyana, under whose leadership citizens were shot down in the compound of the Office of the President,” the GTUC said in a strongly-worded statement on Friday.

The union noted that Mark Benschop, a journalist and social activist, was subsequently charged with treason. He spent five years incarcerated, most of the time in solitary confinement, for simply being in a crowd on the road. He was subsequently released without a trial. “Mr. Jagdeo today feels he has the right to lead an unruly group in an invasion of GECOM to check on Justice Singh’s safety which is not his job. The safety of Justice Singh is that of the Guyana Police Force and or authorised designated State security operatives,” the GTUC said. Jagdeo had even gone to the media alleging that Justice was being held against her will .

“We remember that those who were brutally gunned down were seeking audience with President Jagdeo. The gates were opened. The President was not in office nor at risk but Mr. Jagdeo government and supporters referred to the group in the most derogatory fashion and claimed the intent was to harm the President. Should this nation, under the watchful eyes of international observers, take note of the Jagdeo-led invasion of GECOM as an intended threat to Justice Singh? Should someone or those persons identifiable by video footage be charged with obstruction or whatever drastic charges possible? Or should we accept their expressed concerns as sufficient to let such behaviours go unchecked?” The GTUC added.

According to the GTUC, at the very least, the people of Guyana should expect that such conduct would be condemned in the strongest possible term. “The laws of this country must be upheld even as the right to protest must be respected. The behaviours tolerated at GECOM must never be allowed to happen again. Due process must prevail and all parties must adhere to the channels through which their grievances can be discussed and reviewed. Outside of that there is judicial recourse. Guyana is not the Wild West and Mr. Jagdeo must not feel he is the toughest cowboy leading a charge for valour.”

Also noted in another video was the threat meted out by an Opposition local observer to female police ranks during the exercise of their duty. That person turned to PPP presidential candidate Irfaan Ali and said, “Dr. Ali, […] you must mark these police faces when the government change they must know their jobs in jeopardy.”

GTUC is deeply concerned about the attempt to erode law and order and the threat to innocent workers in the course of executing their duty professionally.

It is one thing for political leaders to engage in public disagreements. It’s another when public servants and police are either being threatened or prevented from executing their duty in a safe environment. GTUC calls on all law abiding Guyanese, all community leaders, civil society, political leaders, international observers to condemn the barrage of Jagdeo-led invasion of GECOM and the threat to innocent workers including officers of the Guyana Police Force. Mr Jagdeo cannot want the PPP to lead this nation by invoking anarchy and continued disrespect for the law when he is not in government.

Ali, all of whom seemed not to have discouraged their supporters who were engaged in the lawless abuse of GECOM employees and members of the Guyana Police Force in Uniform. These attacks resulted in damage to property and coercion of GECOM Staff and law enforcement officers in uniform.

All in full view and in the company of both local and International Observers,” the release said.

The Union said it would not ignore that these groups may have concerns; however, the fact remains that disorderly, lawlessness and irresponsible behaviour, ought

not to be tolerated.

The Union said it has taken note of numerous statements from these observer missions via both print and electronic media “but sadly, the aforementioned behaviour was completely ignored.”

“The Union strongly condemns this kind of behaviour in no uncertain terms and calls on all to observe the law, allow GECOM to do its work efficiently, professionally and in an atmosphere free from fear,” the GPSU said in its release.

Porknocker admits to murder of miner in Mahdia

Dead: Roland Kanhai

A 26-year-old porknocker has confessed to the murder of a 59-year-old gold miner Saturday last on the 111 Public Road, Mahdia, police have confirmed.

The gold miner, Roland Kanhai of Lot 8 Cotton Field, Essequibo, succumbed at a city hospital on Tuesday, days after he was beaten

and robbed at Mahdia, Region Eight.

The porknocker alleged that he was at a shop with his girlfriend when Kanhai who was drunk came up to him and started to interfere with his girlfriend.

“He got vex and he dealt the victim one cuff to his face and he fell to the ground and hit his head on the road,” police source noted.

Reports indicated that the robbery occurred between 20:00hrs last Friday and 05.30 hrs Saturday on the 111 Public Road, Mahdia.

Several persons were questioned and it was alleged that Kanhai was beaten and robbed.

Reports are that around 12.30hrs last Friday, Kanhai was seen imbibing at a food mart in the community.

He was later discovered lying in an unconscious state along the public road by a co-worker.

Kanhai was taken to the Mahdia Hospital and was subsequently transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

He succumbed around 10.30 hrs on Tuesday.

Landlord on ‘disturbance’ charge granted bail 63- year-old Terrence Downes, of Roxanne Burnham Gardens, was granted $15,000 bail by Magistrate Leron Daly, on Friday, March 6, 2020, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, on a ‘disturbance of tenant’s peaceable enjoyment’ charge.

The charge alleged that, on February 25, 2020, at Roxanne Burnham Gardens, Georgetown, Downes being the landlord of the house where Rayanna Harris is a tenant, threw water from his apart-

ment down to her apartment, without the consent of Rayanna Harris.

When Downes was read the charge, he pleaded not guilty.

According to the report, Harris has been Downes’ tenant for three years. Both Downes and Harris reside at Roxanne Burnham Gardens.

Downes, the landlord, lives in the top flat of the house while Harris lives in the bottom flat. On the day in question, Tuesday 25, Harris went home and found water leaking down

to her home from Downes’s apartment. The matter was reported to the police and an investigation was carried out. The defendant was later arrested and charged for disturbance of tenant’s peaceful enjoyment.

Magistrate Daly granted $15,000 bail to Downes and placed both Downes and Harris on bond of peace.

The matter was adjourned to Monday, April 6, and was transferred to Court 8 and 9.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2020

‘Let us all be equal’

-- says PANCAP on International Women’s Day

Director of PANCAP, Dr Rosmond Adams

INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated annually on March 8. This year, the theme is: “I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights”. The theme is aligned with the United Nations’ Women’s new multigenerational campaign, Generation Equality, which marks the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

International Women’s Day is a day set aside to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.

In the Caribbean, women play an important role in community building, nurturing families, national and regional development, inter alia.

Women live very progressive lives in some parts of the world. Their lives have, however, not been without certain struggles. In other parts of the world, they continue to struggle for equality and remain oppressed, and face specific issues, such as domestic abuse, gender-based violence, and the lack of access to education, jobs and health care.

Women account for more than half the number of people living with HIV worldwide. Young women (1024 years old) are twice as likely to acquire HIV as young men of the same age. HIV disproportionately affects women and adolescent girls because of the vulnerabilities created by unequal cultural, social and economic status.

“As we celebrate IWD let us, therefore, reflect on the women in our lives: our teachers, our doctors, our nurses, our grandmothers, our mothers, our wives, our sisters, our aunts, our daughters, our nieces, our friends, and recognise the important role that they have been playing to make the world a better place for all of us,” Director of PANCAP, Dr Rosmond Adams.

PANCAP recognises the importance of women in our society and their struggle for an equal world. Dr Adams said PANCAP supports their development and will work to ensure that the rights of women are addressed and advanced, particularly in areas related to HIV and AIDS, sexual and reproductive health and gender-based violence.

PANCAP, therefore, salutes all women on this their very special day, Dr Adams said.

RO denies Coalition’s request for recount in Region 3 RETURNING Officer for Region Three, Mohanlall Jagdeo, confirmed that he has denied a request

by A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) for a recount of that Region’s votes, saying that the request did not come from the counting agent as the law provides for.

APNU+AFC Counting agent, Aubrey Norton, however denies the claim and said that the party has written to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on the situation. “He [Jagdeo] does not want a recount because he knows what they are involved in, but we will do everything to ensure that there is a recount.

He can’t refuse he is just an agent.

We have written GECOM. We have already taken the actions we think is necessary and await the response from the Elections Commission,” Norton said.

According to the Representation of the People Act Chapter 1:03 Article 84(2) parties have up until “noon of the day following the declaration” of results in the General and Regional elections, to request a recount, otherwise the declaration is considered final.

The law further specifies in Article 88, that requests for a recount has to come from “a duly appointed candidate, or counting agent present when the counting or recounting of votes” was conducted. Article 85 outlines that the “duly appointed candidate” would have had to have been identified and appointed by notice in writing to the district’s RO no later than seven days before the elections.

According to Jagdeo, the request for the recount was signed by the party’s Assistant Elections Agent, John Adams, and not the counting agent,

APNU+AFC Assistant Elections Agent for Region Three, John Adams

Norton. Norton, however, says that two pieces of correspondence were sent to Jagdeo, with the one requesting a recount of the Region being signed by the counting agent.

Following Jagdeo’s declarations of the Region’s general and regional elections results on Wednesday, Norton confirmed that he had written Jagdeo requesting a recount of the entire region’s votes.

On Tuesday, Adams had indicated that the party had concerns about two polling stations on the West Coast Demerara following allegations of Disciplined Services ballots not being counted and another of spoilt ballots being counted.

In the case of the uncounted Disciplined Services ballots, Adams said that, according to reports, a Presiding Officer (PO) at a polling station in Vergenoegen failed to stamp, intermix and count Disciplined Services ballots assigned to that polling station.

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APNU+AFC Counting Agent for region Three, Aubrey Norton

In Guyana, the Disciplined Services, which include ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), cast their ballots for the general and regional elections on a designated date prior to Elections Day. This year, they voted on February 28, while the rest of the country voted on March 2.

The Disciplined Services ballots are not stamped on the day they vote; instead, the unstamped ballots are deposited at a random polling station on Elections Day, and stamped with that polling station’s six- digit stamp, before being intermixed and counted with all other ballots cast at that polling station.

Those ballots, Adams said, were left in a separate envelope and never counted. In the other case, Adams alleges that a PO at a Parika polling station assigned a number of spoilt ballots to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

African group condemns PPP invasion of GECOM …calls on observers to condemn acts MEMBERS of the African Guyanese community are appalled by the invasion of GECOM’s Media and Tabulation Centre by the leaders of the People’s Progressive Party on Thursday, the International Decade for People of African Descent Assembly – Guyana (IDPADA-G) said on Friday.

“Their efforts to intimidate the staff have led to the heightening of tension in our society to-

day. While international observers have dutifully lodged their complaints about the verification of polls, we call on them to be equally attentive to the violation of the sanctity of GECOM by the Opposition and the reckless behaviour that has now led PPP followers to similar actions in the villages and on public roads,” the body stated.

According to IDPADA-G David G school buses have been stopped

and attacked resulting in injury to school children, stranding African Guyanese school children who are afraid to pass through villages where Indian Guyanese are blocking the pubic roadway. Additionally, the body said a police officer has been attacked and injured on the West Coast Berbice. Sugar cane fields have been set on fire in East Berbice.

“We call on the International Observers to take

note of and denounce this unacceptable conduct; and further to urge the Opposition to be mindful of its language to avoid escalating tension across the country, particularly in villages. We further draw their attention to the fact that African Guyanese citizens have remained calm in the face of provocation and we are disappointed that the international community has not spoken out to protect those who are being abused both at GECOM and across the country.”

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Essequibians in Phagwah mode DESPITE the unease following the conclusion of the recent General and Regional Elections, Region Two (Pomeroon- Supenaam) remains quiet and calm, and many persons are in the Phagwah spirit. Businesses were opened on Friday, and busy selling Phagwah powder and other Phagwah- related items.

During visits to several schools along the Essequibo Coast, it was revealed that many children are in the spirit of Phagwah, a National Holiday which will be celebrated here on Monday March 9.

All secondary, primary and nursery schools in the region had a cultural pro-

gramme. Children were dressed in their Indian wear smearing each other faces with powder. An atmosphere of unity was created at the Cotton Field Nursery, with pupils seen playing and having a fun time in the schools’ yard. Popular businessplace Shawn Mini Mart had the rush earlier in the morning, with many persons seen purchasing Phagwah powder and water guns.

The businessman also had a Phagwah sale on special items.

Staff members of several private companies were also attired in Indian wear, and seven-curry sales were conducted by several mandirs, setting the mood for the season.

Children having a fun time with their powder

Essequibians in Phagwah spirit

Pupils at the Cotton Field Primary Playing Phagwah with each other

A shopper at Shawn Mini-Mart

Children having fun playing Phagwah

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PPP supporters in violent protest action on the West Coast Berbice

A STRING of violent protest actions sprang up in People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) stronghold areas on Friday over the results from Monday’s General and Regional Elections, which show, that the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) is in the lead with 237,140 votes – 7, 690 votes more than the PPP/C. In Bush Lot and Bath Settlement on the West Coast of Berbice (WCB), Region Five, irate supporters blocked the main access road along the WCB corridor before setting it on fire.

When the Guyana Chronicle arrived at Bush Lot at around 13:30hrs, the protesters were burning tyres on the main access road, in the vicinity of the Guyana Presbyterian Church – Bush Lot. It was not long after that they broke down a wooden food shed and dragged it unto the road before setting it setting it alight. Thick black smoke could be seen billowing into the air as the protestors hurled racial slurs as ranks of the Guyana Police Force stood a short distance away.

On the opposite end from where the police stood, residents from neighbouring villages could be seen approaching the blocked area but before they could have gotten closer, the Bush Lot residents started pelting glass bottles in their direction.

Meanwhile, on the other end, just pass the police officers, a small group of residents from neighboring villages could be seen with pieces of wood and cutlasses in their hands.

Attempts were made to confront the PPP/C supporters but the Divisional Commander, Yonette Stephens, and her ranks kept them at bay, even as she urged them to go home.

The neighbouring residents had expressed concerns for the wellbeing of their children who attend the Bush Lot Secondary School.

Moments after, police with riot gears appeared in the location and quickly dispersed

the crowd. The fire fighters later arrived on the scene and extinguished the fire.

At Bush Lot, the Divisional Commander told the Guyana Chronicle that the situation was under control. She noted then that her division was monitoring three locations – one at Bush Lot and two at Bath Settlement. Ranks from both Regions Four and Six were sent to the locations to offer assistance.

But while the situation at Bush Lot was brought under control, Bath had proven to be problematic for the police. Initially, the protestors set old farming equipment on fire on a bridge on the WCB corridor. From a distance, police officers with riot gears lined the road, and slowly approached the area while chanting “This is an unlawful gathering, disperse and go home,” but the protestors failed to heed to the warning.

A man was seen walking towards the police. He was subsequently asked to move.

Though the protestors did not evacuate the area, the police manage to take control of the bridge. The fire was put out by the Fire Service and the huge farming equipment was removed from the bridge.

But even as the police were clearing the bridge, the protestors began lighting more fires throughout the length of the road spanning the village of Bath. When the Guyana Chronicle left the scene, there was no physical confrontation between the protestors and the police. A resident of Bath, who looked on from her yard, told the Guyana Chronicle that residents were triggered by GECOM’s decision to declare the votes for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) without following the established verification process.

Bath residents in a full-blown standoff with Members the Riot Squad division of the Guyana Police Force

A charred car at Bath S

Stoking the fire with whatever comes to hand, such as a few old tyres, a carton box or two

Though the atmosphere here seems somewhat relaxed, the police are still on the alert (Photos by Adrian Narine)

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Settlement

A young Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP\C) supporter vents his anger as the fire rages

Another fiery road block at Bush Lot,

Motorists skillfully navigate past the inferno across the road at of Bush Lot, Mahaicony as the ‘Ballot Recount’ protest developed in West Berbice on Friday afternoon

Residents of Bush Lot, in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) manning a barricade set up across the public road on Friday to back demands for a recount of the ballots in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) (Photos by Adrian Narine)

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Protest erupts in several areas in East Berbice

THE once calm East Berbice, Corentyne area was filled with tension and rage as protest erupted in several communities on Friday.

Supporters of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) took to the streets in Black Bush Polder, Number 19 village, Tain and Canje, as they accused the David Granger-led Coalition of “rigging the elections”.

The protest started in the morning session in Lesbeholden, Black Bush Polder and by noon the protesters converged at Tain where they had a standoff with police ranks who were trying to

maintain peace and order.

During the demonstration, several of the protestors blocked the road and refused to budge.

After several warnings, they began throwing water on the police officers who continued to warn them. As the situation escalated, one of the protesters was behaving disorderly and an officer struck him with baton and dealt him some blows which caused injuries to the head.

As the police arrested the man and placed him in the vehicle, the crowd tried to reason with the police to release him, and as the police vehicle was

A scene from the protest at Tain

An injured officer being taken for medical assistance

One of the protesters who was injured

about to drive off, the protester began hurling bricks and other objects at the officer.

The man attempted to escape but collapsed and had to be rushed to the Port Mourant Hospital.

The back windshield of the pickup was shattered as ranks jumped out of the vehicle to

avoid shards of glass piercing them. Senior ranks on the scene managed to control the situation for a little while until the protestors started to burn tires later in the afternoon, bringing traffic to a standstill.

As attempts were made to arrest some persons, the crowd continued to throw objects which led to several warning shots being fired in the air in an effort to disperse the crowd. It was until teargas was used the police was able to gain some control.

Not letting up, the protestors

threw the teargas canisters back at the police and started to hurl missiles in their direction. Eventually, the police, after realising the crowd was not responding, decided to use more teargas followed by riot procedures to force the protesters off the streets and into their homes. A number of persons, including children, were affected by the dispersion of the gas. Warning shots were also fired in the air.

The road was finally clear by 18:00hrs with the police maintaining a strong presence to prevent the protestors from gathering.

Speaking with this publication, Divisional Commander, Calvin Brutus, confirmed that four ranks had to be treated for injuries received.

Brutus said he has nothing against peaceful protest but the hostility and endangerment of

the lives of his ranks would not be encouraged or tolerated.

Meanwhile, as word spread of the protest action, business owners hurriedly closed their doors and sent home their staff.

By mid-afternoon, all the stores, including the banks, were closed in Rose Hall Town, leaving the commercial hub looking like a ghost town.

PPP/C regional representatives who were present at Tain tried to maintain control of the crowd and get them to disband peacefully. Zamal Hussain explained that he was disappointed by the actions of the police and felt they could have used less force to get the crowd to disperse.

The tension in the region, including Region Five, has left several officers suffering from chop wounds, sprained ankles, and injuries from bricks, among others.

GHRA notes overrunning of GECOM centre by opposition

…urges resumption of verification of SOPs WITH the Counting Centre overrun by irate party leaders in the presence of media, observers and diplomats and apparently in the absence of any Elections Commissioners, except the closely-guarded and isolated Chairperson, Guyana’s electoral process slid progressively into chaos on Thursday, the Guyana Human Rights Association has said.

In a statement, the body said the contentious counting system employed by GECOM - the focus of much tension and delay in previous elections once again ignited an electoral atmosphere already charged by the high-stakes reward of oil revenues.

“The verification procedure of votes cast for each party is undertaken on the basis of information contained in the Statement of Poll (SOP) for each station. Verification is undertaken by Region. On Thursday, this process had been completed for all Regions in this manner with Region 4 being the final one. After starting the Region 4 process in the recommended manner, information from a GECOM spread-sheet rather than the SOP began to be introduced,” GHRA notes.

Opposition scrutineers challenged the spread-sheet figures for a number of stations as being at odds with the SOP figures, in all cases by allocating higher numbers to APNU+AFC than the SOP figures. An intervention by the Chief Elections Officer, Mr. Lowenfield, found this to be true in 6 out of 8 boxes that he scrutinised. The GHRA said

several meetings were held and Lowenfield then ordered the spread-sheet be set aside and the SOP be re-instituted.

International observers also supported this decision.

However, this decision was resisted.

Confusion over the status of Region 4 count intensified. Fearing that election results would be pre-empted regardless of Mr. Lowenfield’s decision, opposition party lawyers filed a legal injunction to prevent announcement

by GECOM of Region 4 results. However, in circumstances that are far from clear APNU+AFC claims the Region 4 verification number was announced by GECOM. In light of obligations to voters, and in the interests of legality and transparency, the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) calls upon GECOM to complete the count in Region 4 on the basis of the Statements of Poll (SOP) as mandated by the GECOM CEO. The results should then be announced according to established procedures and accepted by all political parties and all citizens, regardless of who may be winners or losers. Furthermore, there should be no swearing-in of anyone until the Region 4 count is completed. The GHRA takes this opportunity to congratulate the Guyanese population for the patience demonstrated yet again given this dysfunctional electoral system.

The GHRA will issue additional comments when the electoral process is complete.

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Records tumble as Bangladesh ...

From page 26 milestone to tick off was that of Bangladesh’s highest opening stand in ODIs and that arrived, courtesy of Iqbal’s towering mow over deep midwicket off Williams in an over that leaked 17 runs.

Das both raised his second hundred of the series (and third overall in ODIs) and moved past 1 000 runs in this format with an elegant late cut in the same over.

Bangladesh openers were in sight of another record - their highest ODI stand for any wicket - when the weather closed in, in the 34th over and the players were forced off the field shortly after 16:00hrs.

After a delay of more than two-and-a-half hours, play eventually got underway again but Zimbabwe’s discipline with the ball - they had bowled only one extra in the first 34 overs, and that too only a leg bye - seemed to have deserted them.

Brendan Taylor immediately dropped a difficult chance at third man, Donald Tiripano let slip with a wide, and Carl Mumba then had Das caught at short fine-leg off a high full toss that was called a no-ball.

The break did nothing to temper Das’ timing, or Iqbal’s for that matter.

They marched steadily onwards and it was sixes, rather than water, that came raining down in Sylhet with 142 runs flowing from the last nineand-a-half overs.

Zimbabwe struggled to come to terms with a wet ball and a damp outfield, and Das was dropped by Raza at long-on then by Madhevere at deep midwicket as the runs kept flowing.

Das raced through the 150s, making the Bangladesh individual score record his own with a pair of sixes off Raza.

When Mumba was deposited over the ropes for back-to-back sixes, it seemed he might be able to threaten the double-hundred, but he was eventually caught at long-on, aiming for a ninth six.

With Iqbal smiting two more sixes and a four in the penultimate over of the innings, Zimbabwe were faced with the prospect of an immense DLS-adjusted target under lights.

But, as has been the case throughout the series, their wobble in the chase began early.

Tinashe Kamunhukamwe couldn’t get his feet moving, and edged a Mortaza outswinger in the very first over, while Taylor’s poor run of form continued as he flapped a length delivery from Saifuddin to midwicket to fall for 14.

Afif Hossain then struck with his second ball in ODIs, Sean Williams playing inside an off-break to be bowled for 30 in the 14th over. The required rate had ballooned to more than nine by this point, and it only kept creeping upwards.

The 19-year-old Madhevere once again acquitted himself competently, scooting to a run-a ball-42 before he was caught at point off a ball from Saifuddin that got big on him.

Raza did his best to keep the score moving and was briefly helped by Tiripano, who struck two big sixes but could not repeat his heroics from Tuesday night.

Raza reached his fifty in quick time, but the match remained firmly within Bangladesh’s grasp.

He was out attempting to clear the boundary off Saifuddin, who followed up his slower bouncer to Raza with a quick yorker that skittled No. 11 Charlton Tshuma, wrapping up one final record for Bangladesh: 50 wins as captain for Mashrafe Mortaza, making him his country’s most successful leader in this format.

With emotions running high, Mortaza’s teammates hoisted him up on their shoulders as a packed stadium cheered a victorious end to his reign.

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Alisson ruled out of Atletico clash

(BBC) - LIVERPOOL goalkeeper Alisson has been ruled out of their Champions League last-16 second leg against Atletico Madrid

with a hip injury.

Alisson will also miss today’s home Premier League game against Bournemouth and is a doubt for the Mer-

seyside derby at Everton on March 16.

Liverpool host Atletico on Wednesday, trailing 1-0 from the first leg.

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker during the Premier League match vs Watford FC at Vicarage Road on February 29, 2020 in Watford, United Kingdom. (Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images) “He is not available for tomorrow and then the next week,” manager Jurgen Klopp said of the 27-yearold.

“We have to judge the situation. I would say after the international break, 100%.

Whatever we can get before that we will see.”

Records tumble as Bangladesh sweep series (ESPNCRICINFO) - Records tumbled in Sylhet as Bangladesh cruised to a 123-run victory and a 3-0 series win over Zimbabwe to give Mashrafe Mortaza a fitting send-off in his final match as captain.

Liton Das and Tamim Iqbal cemented their side’s dominance with an opening partnership of 292, Bangladesh’s highest for any wicket in ODIs. Both men reached their second hundreds of the series, with Das soaring to 176 to break the record for the highest individual score for Bangladesh in an ODI. It was a record set by Iqbal in the previous match.

Bangladesh batsmen hit an incredible 14 sixes, the most by them in an ODI, to reach 322 for 3, equalling the team record for highest score against Zimbabwe in

an ODI. As a result of a rain delay in the evening, which knocked seven overs out of Bangladesh’s innings, Zimbabwe’s target was readjusted upwards to a mountainous 342.

They never looked like getting close; Sikandar Raza’s fifty in his 100th ODI only delaying the inevitable as Mohammad Saifuddin lead the way with 4 for 41 to bowl the visitors out for 218 in the 38th over.

While Iqbal mixed watchful accumulation with brutal striking, Das found his groove with a more silken touch even when he was lifting the ball over the boundary.

Das also rode some very good luck: he might have been dismissed lbw when he had just 54 to his name, had Zimbabwe used the review available to them, and he

Alisson has also been left out of the Brazil squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru on March 28 and April 1.

The Brazil international, who has played 28 times for Liverpool this season, picked up the injury in training before Tuesday’s 2-0 FA Cup fifth-round defeat at Chelsea.

Alisson - the world’s most expensive goalkeeper when he joined Liverpool from Roma in 2018 in a deal worth up to £66.8M - also missed nine weeks of the campaign with a calf injury sustained in their opening league match against Norwich City in August.

“He (Alisson) had a little incident in training before the Chelsea game,” Klopp said.

“We all thought it was nothing and it was clear he would not play anyway. The plan was that he would be on the bench. “(There was a) scan the next day and they found something, so now he is out.”

Liton Das walks off after his dismissal. (BCB)

was also dropped three times in the outfield.

He made them pay for the errors.

With Das ticking past fifty in the 16th over, the opening stand moved inexorably beyond 100.

Iqbal raised a fifty of his own six overs later, and took it upon himself to deflate the pressure built by Zimbabwe after a spell of just 20 runs in 5.5 overs, stepping out to swat Wesley Madhevere over wide long-on for his second six off the spinner.

Having tootled merrily beyond 150, the next See page 27

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Russell returns to West Indies colours (CMC) – ALL-rounder Andre Russell put to rest any lingering fears over his fitness with an exhilarating Man-of-the-Match performance as West Indies swept their Twenty20 International series with a convincing seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second match here yesterday.

Asked to chase a modest 156 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, West Indies stormed to their target with three overs to spare, to also send a stern warning to rivals ahead of this year’s T20 World Cup in Australia.

While Shimron Hetmyer stroked a measured 43 off 42 balls and opener Brandon King dazzled with 43 off 21 balls, it was Russell who really grabbed the attention with stunning 14-ball unbeaten 40 which took the World champions over the line.

The 31-year-old traded only in sixes, crunching half-dozen of them, and coming on the heels of a similar effort in the opening match on Wednesday when he slammed a 14-ball 35, the effort was enough to earn him Man-of-the-Series

Fabian Allen celebrates a wicket. (Associated Press)

honours.

Prior to the series, the Jamaican had not featured in a single T20 International in nearly two years and after hobbling out of last year’s 50-over World Cup after just four matches with a bad knee which required surgery, his international future appeared bleak.

There were no such concerns, however, as he eviscerated the Sri Lankan attack to hand West Indies their first T20 series win in their last six tours.

Russell arrived at the crease in the 13th over when Rovman Powell holed out to

a stunning catch on the deep backward square boundary

by Shehan Jayasuriya, off seamer Dasun Shanaka, and quickly dominated an unbroken 55-run, fourth-wicket stand with Hetmyer off just 26 deliveries.

He took a single from the first ball he faced but then bludgeoned leg-side sixes off the next two balls he faced at the end of the 14th over from pacer Lahiru Kumara.

Hetmyer, who struck just three fours, was then reduced to the role of spectator as Russell belted sixes in every over. His final one – a cracking pull over mid-wicket of medium pacer Angelo Mathews - sealed West Indies’ win in style.

A disjointed batting performance had earlier left Sri Lanka with a disappointing 155 for six after they were sent in, with Shanaka top-scoring with an unbeaten 31 off 24 balls batting at number six.

Mathews chipped in with 23 and Thisara Perera, 21 not out, but the hosts struggled with momentum throughout their innings and also failed to find acceleration at the back end.

West Indies were clinical

Khan’s 4-wicket haul stumps Ireland (ESPNCricinfo) - While three of Afghanistan’s bowlers conceded more than 9.75 per over, Rashid Khan’s four-over spell of 3 for 22 ensured Ireland could post only 172 for 6 in their 20 overs.

After that, brisk scoring from opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz and the No. 6 Najibullah Zadran, who both maintained strike rates of over 200, kept Afghanistan 11 runs ahead of the DLS par score when rain arrived 15 overs into the chase, handing the hosts a 1-0 lead in the three-game series.

Ireland had won the toss, and on the back of a 63-run stand between Paul Stirling and Kevin O’Brien inside the powerplay, they got off to a flying start.

But then Mujeeb Ur Rahman struck off the powerplay’s last delivery to remove O’Brien for 35.

Stirling, however, continued his charge, hitting a half-century before being dismissed for a 41-ball 60.

Khan, who dismissed Stirling caught-and-bowled, then dismissed Andy Balbirnie and Lorcan Tucker to keep Ireland’s run-scoring in check.

Despite some late hitting

Najibullah Zadran and Samiullah Shinwari get together. (AFP) from No. 5 Harry Tector, staged a 63-run partnership what Ireland could post was to drag Afghanistan out of 22 runs fewer than the av- trouble. erage first-innings score in They batted under a the three T20Is that had been steady drizzle, with one eye played at the ground previ- on the DLS par score - they ously. were always ahead - but then Afghanistan openers Haz- Shinwari perished trying to ratullah Zazai and Gurbaz got slog Boyd Rankin in the 15th a fifty-stand by the fifth over over. of the chase, but the latter With 30 balls to go, Afwas soon trapped lbw by ghanistan needed 40 runs, off-spinner Simi Singh. but that’s when the rain got Zazai was then bowled heavier. trying to cut Singh, three Najibullah did not wait balls later, and at the end of for his new partner as the five overs, Afghanistan were umpires asked both teams to 55 for 2. exit the field, and 25 minutes Karim Janat and Asghar later, they confirmed that Afghan were then both run- no further play would be out in quick succession, possible. which reduced Afghanistan The win was Afghanito 70 for 4, but Samiullah stan’s seventh-straight T20I Shinwari and Najibullah win over Ireland in India.

up front, fast bowler Oshane Thomas bowling Avishka Fernando for nine in the third over with 16 on the board, and leftarm spinner Fabian Allen (224) – who shared the new ball – removing Jayasuriya (16) and Kusal Perera (15) in successive deliveries in the seventh over with the score on 48.

Mathews and Kusal Mendis (11) attempted a rebuild with a 33-run fourth-wicket stand and when both fell within 15 balls of each other as three wickets went down for 28 runs, Shanaka struck three fours and a six in a 46-run, unbroken seventh-wicket stand with Thisara Perera, to bolster the innings.

In reply, the Windies lost Lendl Simmons cheaply for nine in the third over with the score on 23 but an unusually restrained Hetmyer put on 46 for the second wicket with King and a further 34 for the third wicket with Powell to ensure there was

no implosion.

King counted half-dozen fours and a couple of sixes before top-edging a

short one from Kumara in the eighth over and after Powell also perished, Russell took charge.

Scoreboard SRI LANKA innings K. Perera c Simmons b Allen 15 A. Fernando b Thomas 9 S. Jayasuriya c Powell b Allen 16 K. Mendis c Powell b Bravo 11 A. Mathews run-out 23 D. Shanaka not out 31 W. Hasaranga c Hetmyer b Cottrell 8 T. Perera not out 21 Extras: (b-5, lb-5, w-10, nb-1) 21 Total: (6 wkts, 20 overs) 155 Fall of wickets: 1-16, 2-48, 3-48, 4-81, 5-95, 6-109.

Bowling: Allen 4-0-24-2, Cottrell 4-0-29-1, Thomas 4-0-24-1, Russell 4-0-33-0, Bravo 4-0-35-1.

WEST INDIES innings L. Simmons b Mathews 9 B. King c Malinga b Kumara 43 S. Hetmyer not out 43 R. Powell c Jayasuriya b Shanaka 17 A. Russell not out 40 Extras: (w-6) 6 Total: (3 wkts, 17 overs) 158 Fall of wickets: 1-23, 2-69, 3-103.

Bowling: Malinga 3-0-46-0, Perera 3-0-20-0, Mathews 4-0-26-1, Jayasuriya 1-0-11-0, Sandakan 2-0-17-0, Kumara 3-0-28-1, Shanaka 1-0-10-1.

Result: West Indies won by three wickets.

Series: West Indies won two-match series 2-0.

Man-of-the-Match: Andre Russell.

30

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 7, 2020

Scorpions-Volcanoes match precariously poised

(CMC) – Left-hander Paul Palmer struck his second first-class hundred and second of the season to pass 400 runs but veteran opener Devon Smith answered with an unbeaten half-century to leave the seventh-round contest between Windward Islands Volcanoes and Jamaica Scorpions in the balance.

The 28-year-old Palmer finished on 114 not out after resuming yesterday’s second day at the National stadium here on 65, as Scorpions converted their overnight 285 for three into 381 all out in their first innings.

However, Nkrumah Bonner managed to add only four to his overnight 131 as left-arm pacer Preston McSween ripped through the innings to finish with career-best figures of six for 64 for his second career five-wicket haul.

Volcanoes responded positively and were 132 for two at the close, still trailing by 249 runs heading into today’s third day.

Smith was holding to the innings together on 67 not out, a knock so far consuming 155 deliveries

431 runs for the season.

He put on 32 for the fifth wicket with Oraine Williams (19) and then frustrated Volcanoes in a last-wicket stand of 28 with Patrick Harty (7).

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Left-hander Paul Palmer hit his second first class hundred. and just short of 3-¼ hours, with six fours.

He put on 33 for the first wicket with West Indies Under-19 captain Kimani Melius who made 14 before driving an ordinary delivery from off-spinner Jamie Mer-

chant (2-34) straight to captain John Campbell at cover in the second over after tea.

Smith then added a further 46 with Kavem Hodge who made 24 before falling lbw to Merchant, but found an ally in Andre Fletcher

(22 not out) with whom he has so far put on 53 in an unbroken third-wicket stand.

Bonner’s hopes of building a big innings had been earlier scuppered when he fell in the day’s second over

with just five added to Scorpions’ overall total, lbw to pacer Ryan John.

However, Palmer pushed his side past 350 in an innings that lasted 261 balls, 5-¼ hours and contained eight fours and six. He has

Pride rescued by Dowrich, Nurse (CMC) – Test wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich fell agonisingly short of an eighth first-class hundred while Ashley Nurse belted an aggressive half-century as the pair rescued leaders Barbados Pride on the second day of their seventh round match against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force.

Replying to the hosts’ 239 all out at Brian Lara Stadium, Pride slumped to 73 for six, courtesy of fast bowler Anderson Phillip’s (5-58) second career five-wicket haul before recovering to reach the close yesterday on 254 for nine -a lead of 15 runs.

Dowrich was at the forefront of the effort, the pint-sized stroke-maker perishing for 96 while Nurse, batting at eight, smashed 81.

Together, they posted 159 for the seventh wicket to swing the momentum the visitors’ way, frustrating Red Force who had the better of the first two sessions.

Dowrich faced 157 deliveries in just over 3-½ hours and struck 16 fours while Nurse played with his usual merry abandon in punch-

ing 10 fours and three sixes in an audacious 96-ball knock.

Resuming the morning on 192 for five after rain disrupted Thursday’s opening day, Red Force lost their last five wickets for just 47 runs with fast bowler Chemar Holder (4-68) and seamer Kevin Stoute (3-30) being the wickets to fall.

Joshua DaSilva, undefeated overnight on 67, added only 10 runs before he was second out after facing 172 balls in just under 3-¾ hours and hitting a dozen fours.

Imran Khan added two to his overnight 21 before falling in the day’s third over, losing his off-stump to Stoute and DaSilva followed with 19 runs added, dragging on a wide ball from Stoute to also lose his off-stump.

Left with five overs before lunch, Pride lost out-of-form captain Kraigg Brathwaite for 13, to be 16 for one at the interval.

Brathwaite, entering the game with an average of 26 from 11 previous innings, was lbw to Phillip off the final ball before lunch, trapped on his crease

Test wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich by a full-length delivery.

After the break, Test batsman Shamarh Brooks failed to score, bowled by Phillip in the fourth over offering no stroke and Justin Greaves followed two overs later for four, lbw to Phillip, as Pride lost five more wickets for 51 runs.

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31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 7, 2020

Sports Extra Inter-Village Football Woven Texture Barber Shop lines up support A YOUNG and budding entrepreneur, Tyrese Jeffrey, Manager/Owner of Woven Texture Barber Shop, located at 3rd Avenue, Diamond, East Bank Demerara, has come on board with sponsorship for the staging of the inaugural Sports Extra Inter-Village Football competition.

Jeffrey, in handing over sponsorship to Director of Sports Extra, Franklin Wilson, at the Barber Shop, said that he was very happy to be approached

Region Two to host Cricket Festival for Women

By Elroy Stephney

IN observance of International Women’s Day, the Department of Youth, Region 2 will host its 4th annual cricket festival today at Imam Bacchus ground in Affiance.

Several teams from across the Region will participate including the hinterland communities. International Women’s Day is celebrated around the world on March, 8.

There will be a colourful atmosphere and keen rivalry is anticipated.

The competition is being coordinated by Sports Organiser Debra Daniels along with Youth Officer Herald Alves who disclosed that the idea is to promote unity and togetherness among women through sports as well as for them to interact and to have fun.

He added that each team will be presented with a token of participation.

There will be Winners, Most Runs, Most Wickets and Player-of-the-Day trophies.

The Department is also using the occasion to promote activeness among women in sports and community partic-

ipation.

“We need to recognise our women in a tangible way and for them be given a level playing field to showcase their talent,” according to Alves.

He also thanked Imam Bacchus Group of Companies for providing the facilities free of cost.

The public is invited to attend. The first match is scheduled for 10:00hrs.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is: ‘I am generation, equality, realising women’s rights’..

PCL Regional 4-Day Tournament Round 7 Day 2

Louis, Cornwall trip up Jaguars despite champs maintaining driver’s seat Manager/Owner Tyrese Jeffrey hands over sponsorship to Franklin Wilson. to come on board as a sponsor even though his business is still very young.

“Woven Texture Barber Shop is happy to support this tournament which will bring together teams along the East Bank corridor and the Soesdyke/Linden Highway. Sports have a way of uniting people and I am happy to be part and parcel of this venture.

“As I know, many players would be afforded the chance to play for their village and this in itself will bring out the pride as they would want to show who is better in a positive way.”

Jeffrey went on to say that he has no doubt that the members of the various communities would ensure that they go out and support their respective teams.

Wilson, in response, thanked Jeffrey and Woven Texture Barber Shop for supporting the tournament which he promised would be very competitive. Each village would be required to register a total of 25 players and 3 officials and only players living in the respective villages would be allowed to play for the Team.

Registration will close on March 11 The winning village will walk away with $400 000, losing finalists $200 000, third place $120 000 and 4th place $50 000.

The top individual players, Best Goalkeeper, Highest Goalscorer and Most Valuable Player would also be rewarded with cash and a trophy.

… Singh, Reifer share 93-run partnership

By Clifton Ross VISHAUL Singh narrowly missed what could have been his second ton this season as Guyana Jaguars managed to keep the game in their favour, despite some fire with the ball from Leeward Hurricanes pair of Rakeem Cornwall and Jerimiah Louis.

Day 2 at Providence saw a mixed outing for the home team, led by a stylish 90 from Vishaul Singh who sadly missed out on a ton for the second time this season.

The former Windies Test batsman struck 6 fours as he got support from all-rounder Raymon Reifer (43) and captain Leon Johnson who made 35 to guide Guyana to a 1st innings 259 all out in 107 overs.

All it took was a disciplined approach from two key men in; spinner Rakeem Cornwall who bagged 4 for 96 and seamer Jerimiah Louis who mopped up the middle order with his haul of 4-48 for the Hurricanes.

Trailing by 186 runs, opener Montcin Hodge (21*) hit two fours while the classy Amir Jangoo was also on 22, as the pair will look to resume in positive fashion with the Leewards 73-2 in reply.

Kieran Powell (13) and Ross Powell (6) were removed by spinners Veerasammy Permaul (1-15) and Kevin Sinclair (1-17) to help the Jaguars gain a bit of an edge going into day 3.

Reifer and Singh were both positive upon resumption of play on day 2.

Reifer did well to take his score into the 40s while Singh continued to press onwards following his first-day half-century.

However, the seamer Louis had other plans when he removed the all-rounder out just 7 runs away from his fifty.

Louis then had the big fish Singh, caught by Hamilton minutes before lunch, further damaging the Champs with his third successive breakthrough; this time knocking over Kevin Sinclair for a duck as Guyana went into lunch on 198-7.

When play resumed, Anthony Bramble (23), Permaul (24*) and Motie 15 added useful runs to the total before the side folded in their first innings.

Action continues today from 10:00hrs.

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Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) 38 runs (2) 44 runs

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What was the result of the recent T20 International series between Australia/South Africa?

(2) Who was declared Man of the Series?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Russell returns to West Indies colours

See story on page 29 It rained sixes with Andre Russell at his destructive best.

(Associated Press)

PCL Regional 4-Day Tournament Round 7 Day 2 …

Louis, Cornwall trip up Jaguars despite champs maintaining drivers seat –– Singh, Reifer share 93-run partnership

Vishaul Singh

See story on page 31

Jerimiah Louis

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SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 2020