Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_05_09_2021

5th September, 2021

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No.106475

Hinterland communities to benefit equally from oil & gas wealth

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$300M in grants to be distributed 03 to 220 Amerindian villages – President Ali says

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Hess secures US$150M for investments in Guyana 05 PAGE

Fire destroys woman’s Sarah Johanna house 12 PAGE

Families embrace 22 vaccination drive –– urge others to do their PAGE

The creation of a level playing field was the pledge that President Dr. Irfaan Ali made to the Toshaos of Region Nine.

The Head of State wants Amerindian leaders to assume their rightful place at the table, and play an increasingly integral role in the development of Guyana, and all of its peoples. He is pictured here greeting residents in Lethem with Chairman of Region Nine, Bryan Allicock (Latchman Singh photo)

part in combatting COVID-19

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 5, 2021

$300M in grants to be distributed to 220 Amerindian villages –– top US diplomat urges Guyanese to get vaccinated

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– President Ali says

THROUGHOUT this year, the Government of Guyana will be distributing a minimum of $300 million to at least 220 Amerindian communities across the country, according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali. Delivering the feature address at a Regional Toshaos’ Meeting in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), the Head of State said that the monies are being made available via the Presidential Grant Fund.

“Many communities have started to receive these ben-

and hinterland communities,” President Ali said.

In acknowledging the gap that exists between communities on the coastland and the hinterland, President Ali pledged his government’s intention to ensure that the playing field is levelled, and that Amerindians are economically empowered and integrally involved in the country’s decision-making process.

“I assure you that you will not be side-lined from the process of national development, but rather be

stages.

“The region possesses massive plots of land which can be adopted to large-scale agricultural production, including the cultivation of products used for local feed production and for exports,” the President said.

Notwithstanding food production, the Head of State pointed to the region’s greatest asset as being its eco-tourism product.

“Part of our expanded Low-Carbon Development Strategy now is aimed at securing payment and securing President Dr. Irfaan Ali engages attendees of the National Toshaos’ Conference

President Ali being warmly received by the people of Region Nine efits and grants,” President Ali said. He reminded the leaders from over 50 communities across the region’s five sub-districts that in 2020, under the same fund, some $280 million was disbursed to 213 Amerindian and hinterland communities.

“Over the past year, your government has proactively been promoting Amerindian development. The National Budget has allocated in excess of $5.45 billion, which will be injected into the development of Amerindian

integral to that process,” Dr. Ali maintained.

He recognised that Region Nine is poised to not only become a “heartland” for agriculture, but also a vibrant hub for industry and commerce, as well as a hotspot for adventure sport and nature-based tourism.

In describing the region’s agricultural potential as being enormous, President Ali made specific reference to projects such as the commercial soya bean and corn farm, which is currently in its initial

revenues for preservation of biodiversity. We are talking, too, about the blue economy; our water resources,” President Ali posited.

He indicated that already, the region has benefitted from $456M to finance development projects and proposals under the Economic Investment Fund.

“We’ve also been supporting community development projects aimed at improving connectivity and sustainable livelihoods,” Dr. Ali added.

In streamlining projects for Amerindian communities, the Head of State committed to employing the United Nations’ principle of Free, Prior and Informed Consent, which empowers Amerindian communities to either accept or reject any project that is unfavourable to them.

To this end, he said that one of the chief purposes of the National Toshaos’ Conference (NTC) is to ensure that Amerindians have a convenient forum and space to give insight and input into matters relating to national development, “…and to contribute to the fashioning of these plans.”

Dr. Ali said that even though the larger NTC cannot be hosted, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the existing situation presents a unique opportunity for closer examination of the needs of the Amerindian Peoples by region.

“I want to assure you that every day we will dedicate our lives; our energies in service to you, your families and people of the communities,” he said.

As it is, eight ministers of government are in the region, addressing the concerns that the Toshaos may have. President Ali noted that through the efforts of various

subject ministers, there will be improvements to social services, health facilities and ICT services to ensure that Amerindian communities can experience the same way of life as those living on the coast.

He said that these improvements will not only enhance their overall development, but will empower hundreds of their youths that are currently enrolled in the GOAL 20,000 Online scholarship programme.

“We are responding to your appeals for the establishment of a permanent wellstaffed, well-equipped and fully-supported Secretariat building,” the President said, while adding that the government is also examining the prospect of having farmers licensed to own firearms.

The President also highlighted that infrastructural development will be a central focus, in order to reduce the time and cost for the movement of goods and services.

“We want to build infrastructure that is linked to economic empowerment, and that is the type of discussion we will be having with you soon,” Dr. Ali said.

The Toshaos were also briefed on the government’s intention to launch a Hinterland Housing Project, which

will also see construction materials and labour being sourced within the region, thereby creating jobs and improving the regional economy.

The President emphasised that the Regional Conference has to address, in a substantive way, the economic, social and environmental concerns of the people of the region and should focus on food security, economic diversification, empowerment and social transformation as it relates to health, housing, education and social welfare.

He said this should be done in order to provide Amerindians with enhanced livelihoods, greater justice, more opportunities, higher levels of education, agricultural expansion, more jobs, greater integration with the Coast, improved health, water, sanitation, housing and infrastructure.

“The final goal is to ensure all of these things are blended in a way that will make you live longer, and more prosperous in dignity,” he stressed. Following the formal aspect of the meeting, President Ali engaged the community leaders in a question-and-answer segment.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Taliban break up women’s rights protest in Kabul (BBC) - Taliban officials have broken up a demonstration by dozens of women in Kabul demanding rights following the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. The group say the Taliban targeted them with tear gas and pepper spray as they tried to walk from a bridge to the presidential palace.

But the Taliban maintain the protest got out of control, according Afghan media outlet Tolo news. It’s the latest of several protests by women in Kabul and Herat.

The women were calling for the right to work and to be included in the government. The Taliban say they will announce the make-up of their ad-

ministration in the coming days.

The Taliban have said women can be involved in government, but not hold ministerial positions. Many women fear a return to the way they were treated when the Taliban were previously in power, between 1996 and 2001. Women were forced to cover their faces outside, and harsh punishments were meted out for minor transgressions.

“Twenty-five years ago, when the Taliban came, they prevented me from going to school,” journalist Azita Nazimi told Tolo.

“After five years of their rule, I studied for 25 years and worked hard.

For the sake of our better future, we will not allow this to happen.”

Another demonstrator, Soraya, told Reuters: “They also hit women on the head with a gun magazine, and the women became bloody.” Clashes have meanwhile continued in the Panjshir Valley, north of Kabul,

where resistance fighters have been thwarting efforts by the Taliban to exert control.

But there’s been claim and counter-claim. The Taliban maintain they’ve taken control of two more districts and are heading for the centre of the province. A spokesman for the National Re-

sistance Front of Afghanistan (NRF) said heavy fighting was continuing and thousands of Taliban had been surrounded.

The Panjshir Val ley, home to between 150,000 and 200,000 people, was a centre of resistance when Afghanistan was under Soviet occupation in the 1980s and during the Taliban’s previous period of rule.

T h e N R F ’s l e a d er, Ahmad Massoud, praised protests by women in Herat, and said Panjshir continued to resist. None of the claims by the NRF or the Taliban could be independently verified.

In a further sign of Kabul’s airport resuming activity following the US withdrawal last week, Afghan airline Ariana announced the resumption of internal flights to three cities:

Herat, Mazar-i-Sharif and Kandahar.

Al-Jazeera TV quoted Qatar’s ambassador as saying a technical team from Qatar had succeeded in reopening the airport to receive aid flights.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is travelling to Qatar on Sunday.

The country plays a key mediating role in Afghanistan, but he is not expected to meet anyone from the Taliban.

The head of Pakistan’s spy agency, the ISI, General Faiz Hameed has arrived in Kabul, but gave nothing away when questioned by reporters. An official told Reuters earlier this week he could help the Taliban reorganise the Afghan military.

The ISI has been accused by Western powers of backing the Taliban, something denied

by Pakistan.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Hess secures US$150M for investments in Guyana

Hess Corporation said that the proceeds from selling its operations in Denmark will go towards funding its world-class investment opportunity in Guyana

By Rehana Ahamad AFTER selling its Denmark operations for US$150 million, Hess Corporation is planning to inject all of its profits from that sale into expanding and developing its more lucrative oil exploration and production activities in Guyana.

Reports are that INEOS E&P AS, which is a component of INEOS Energy, had entered into an agreement to acquire the subsidiary Hess Denmark ApS. for a total consideration of US$150 million, effective January 1, 2021.

INEOS is said to be one of the largest oil and gas producers in the British, Norwegian and Danish regions of the North Sea. A statement issued by the two companies indicated that the sale will see INEOS acquiring some 61.5 per cent of the Hess-operated Syd Arne oilfield, in which INEOS already holds the remaining stake, and a 4.8 per cent stake in the INEOSoperated Solsort field.

Commenting on the sale, Chief Executive Officer of Hess Corporation, John Hess said, “The sale of our Denmark asset enables us to further focus our portfolio and strengthen our cash and liquidity position.

Proceeds will be used to fund our world-class investment opportunity in Guyana.”

As it is, Hess Corp is operating out of the Stabroek Block located approximately 120 miles offshore Guyana. This 6.6-million-acres block is equivalent in size to 1,150

Gulf of Mexico blocks, and has already seen 22 discoveries amounting to nine billion barrels of oil equivalent, and counting.

“The discoveries on the block to date have established the potential for at least six Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels by 2027 to develop the current discovered recoverable resource base,” Hess Corp said.

The Liza Phase 1 development, with a production capacity of 120,000 gross barrels of oil per day, delivered first production in December 2019 utilising the Liza Destiny FPSO. The second phase of the Liza development, sanctioned in May 2019, will utilise the Liza Unity FPSO with gross production capacity of approximately 220,000 barrels of oil per day; this is expected to be up and running by early 2022.

A third phase of development at the Payara Field was sanctioned in September 2020. First oil is expected in 2024, ac-

cording to the company. It related too that the Payara project will utilise the Prosperity FPSO, which will have the capacity to produce up to 220,000 gross barrels of oil per day. A fourth development, Yellowtail, has been identified on the Stabroek Block with anticipated start-up in 2025, pending government approvals and project sanctioning.

Additionally, in April 2018, Hess was also able to acquire an interest in the Kaieteur Block, located approximately 155 miles offshore and adjacent to the Stabroek Block. The Kaieteur Block covers 3.3 million acres which is equivalent in size to more than 580 deep-water blocks in the Gulf of Mexico.

Meanwhile, for INEOS Energy, the deal with Hess Corp is expected to increase the group’s oil output of about 60,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boed) by around 6,000 barrels per day, according to Reuters.

In a statement, Execu-

tive Chairman of INEOS Energy, Brian Gilvary, said, “I am pleased we have been able to complete the acquisition. The deal represents a major step in reshaping our energy business. It also opens up prospects that can be developed in Denmark’s offshore oil and gas sector, supported by a very promising carbon storage project.”

He further explained that the deal with Hess represents a major step in reshaping its energy business, since HESS was one of the earliest pioneers in developing the North Sea basin.

“This deal will open up future growth prospects that can be developed in Denmark’s offshore oil and gas sector, supported by a very promising carbon storage project helping to deal with future emissions,” Gilvary noted.

He added that the Greensands project in Denmark will make a

Hess Corp’s Chief Executive Officer, John Hess significant contribution to our understanding and growth of carbon storage technology, whilst supporting Denmark’s wider CO2 emission reduction targets for 2030 and beyond. Gilvary was also quoted by Reuters as saying that further expansion in Denmark will allow INEOS to increase the share of oil in its overall production from 15 per cent to 25 per cent in the coming years.

“It takes us from a position in Denmark where effectively we ran an endgame to a position now where we can grow out to

the mid-2040s,” Gilvary told Reuters.

He further indicated that the group’s oil and gas exploration and extraction in the north see will wrapup in time to comply with a decision taken by the Danish government to end all oil operations in the North Sea by 2050.

“The new investment will also help INEOS to develop the Greensands carbon storage project in Denmark, which will capture and store carbon emissions from the oilfields in depleted fields,” Gilvary told the London news agency.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Parental Responsibility

PARENTS have a duty to ensure that their children are protected against all forms of illnesses and disease.

This is why it is mandatory for parents to ensure that their children are fully vaccinated, from the time of birth, against certain diseases which could be fatal if the protocols are not fully adhered to.

The Ministry of Health has implemented a number of measures to ensure that children are given the recommended vaccines at scheduled times and at recommended doses. Among the mandatory childhood vaccines are those that protect from measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, polio, rabies,

hepatitis, rotavirus, tuberculosis among several others.

Indeed, parents and guardians are required to provide proof that their children are vaccinated as a prior condition for admission to nursery and primary schools.

This, it must be said, is done without any form of hesitancy on the part of parents or guardians.

One of the main reasons for such compliance is that as parents we want the best for our children, both from the standpoint of our children’s health and their education. We trust the judgement of our policymakers and our technical officials that whatever they do in in the best interest of our children.

Why then, one is tempted to ask, are there so much hesitancy and scepticism over the administration of the COVID-19 vaccines in general and to adolescent school children in particular by some in our society? Could there be some ulterior motive driven by considerations other than that of the best interest of our children?

Whatever the explanation, it is not rational and certainly not in the best interest of our children. All the evidence indicate that vaccines are the most effective way to guard against the COVID-19 virus, and even though it is not made mandatory, many governments are put-

ting measures in place to safeguard the population against the spread of the virus.

As pointed out by Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, we are not, as it were, out of the woods when it comes to infection rates. In fact, there has been a recent surge in COVID-19 infections, hospitalisations and deaths which must be of concern to all. According to the Health Minister, the numbers are climbing and the country is experiencing more cases of preventable infections. This situation, if not properly managed, could get out of control and the system overwhelmed, a worrying situation indeed.

The fact is that there is a surge of the Delta variant in other parts of the world and we cannot leave anything to chance. This is why we

have to aggressively pursue the vaccination of our young people who are especially vulnerable to the spread of Delta variant.

Thankfully, the response by parents and guardians to the vaccination of school children has been encouraging.

This is a welcome development. In fact the Public Health (School Children) Immunisation Act of 1974 provides for the immunisation of persons seeking entry into schools and daycare centres against certain communicable diseases which, according to the Health Minister will provide legislative cover in the administration of the adolescent vaccination programme.

The battle is on in the fight against the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.

This requires the support and collaboration of all

Guyanese. Regrettably there are some, who instead of being part of the solution have, for reasons best known to themselves, opted to be part of the problem. This is indeed sad. One can only hope that better sense will prevail and we will all sing from the same hymn book as we seek to bring to an end to this deadly pandemic.

Like it or not, we have to be guided by science. And the scientific evidence so far has proven that the vaccines are safe for both adults and children.

Data showed that children and particularly adolescents can play a significant part in COVID-19 transmission. It is possible that newer variants could emerge which can be minimised by herd immunity involving the entire population.

Let’s put aside our quirks and reservations and think about ‘herd immunity’ Dear Editor:

I AM quite pleased that the government is reporting an increase in vaccinations among teachers, students and the general populace.

Our former resisters are to be complimented for a change of heart. “Fixed mindsets” about not taking the vaccines are the enemy of progress in safety and security in our poor country. We need more “growth mindsets” that would allow people to be reasonable and willing to respond to government’s call for people to step up and be vac-

cinated. A caring government must think about the general good, and impending doom if people chose to be reckless about their health and safety.

As schools are about to be open, I predict a season of “open, close; open, close” as the virus spreads among teachers and students, and is transmitted to others outside of schools. When this happens, it would not be because the government has done anything wrong. The blame would go squarely on the shoulders of the 50 per cent unvaccinated

teachers, nurses and the surrogate unions of the moribund opposition acting irresponsibly.

Unvaccinated teachers would most likely infect students and cause school closures. Students may also infect unvaccinated teachers. So it seems, a lot depends on what the 50 per cent of unvaccinated teachers do.

This percentage is unacceptable and the ball is now in the teachers’ court. It’s just a matter of time when parents would be upset with the teachers if mindsets don’t change.

Government must do what it needs to do

as it protects the entire nation. And who ‘vex, vex’. I wish the “suing” unions well, as the courts themselves have had to impose safety measures, and would support the government’s actions.

For those hesitants, “My Body, My Choice,” is a slogan of pro-abortionists, and others who confuse licence and liberty. To those who say you can still get the virus even though vaccinated, the best answer is from blogger “Oh Man” who said, “As with the flu, you can still get sick but your chances of being terminally ill is

significantly reduced.

You may be treated at a dispensary instead of an ICU.” Regardless of all the concerns people have, we are better off being vaccinated than unvaccinated. The risks are reduced. There would always be a tiny percentage of resisters.

With this group, even if God appeared to them in a burning bush and told them to take the vaccine, they would not take the vaccine. For the rest of us, let’s understand that vaccines don’t kill, vaccines save lives.

S o p e o p l e , l e t ’s

put aside our quirks and reservations and think about the “herd immunity” of our nation. We want to normalise and open up our country fully so everyone can get back to work and earn their livelihoods. Don’t let us be a divided nation of “the vaccinated” versus “the unvaccinated.” A hole in the boat is a hole in the whole boat, and it does not matter which side has the hole. Together we survive, or together we perish.

Let Guyana live!

Sincerely, Dr. Jerry Jailall

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

CARICOM’s intervention nipped the violence in its bud Dear Editor,

AS we observe the first anniversary since the democratic change in administration, we must not forget the very critical role played by the regional CARICOM body in convincing the then incumbent Grangerled administration to accept the outcome of a free and fair election and playing by established globally accepted electoral rules. CARICOM intervened at a critical time right after the election when it appeared that the outcome was going to be rigged, triggering racially inspired violence.

CARICOM demanded that the incumbent respect the will of the electorate and hand over power. Off course, it took sanctions from the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo

and an American ultimatum for Granger to step down and allow the winner, Dr Irfaan Ali to assume the reins of power.

With its action, CARICOM demonstrated that it can effectively facilitate, with assistance from a powerful ally like the US and or Canada, a peaceful transition of power. Guyana and other regional countries will benefit from the presence of regional observers to ensure that the elections are credible and, furthermore, to usher in a peaceful transition if required.

It would be recalled that CARICOM was criticised for closing its eyes to fraudulent elections and an illegal government in Guyana between 1968 and 1992 and its ineffectiveness during political crises thereafter.

In March 2020, after appeals from civic figures

and academicians, and individuals like myself writing in the regional press, CARICOM took action, demonstrating effectiveness in safeguarding the democratic rights of Guyanese, and it helped ensure a peaceful transition of power as mandated by the electorate. This was the first time that CARICOM played a very active and direct role during a regional election to ensure credibility and rule of law, an election that was all set to be rigged with compliance and conspiracy from elements in GECOM. The involvement of the Caribbean leaders in negotiations with Granger and Jagdeo, the leaders of the two contending political forces in the country, was significant in arriving at a resolution to the electoral crisis. It also relates the importance of the re-

gional body in brokering peace in a member state. The elongation tactics employed by the incumbent to reject the outcome of a credible election after realising it was defeated led to some violence. The situation could have gotten out of hand. CARICOM’s intervention nipped the violence in its bud.

CARICOM sent observers to Guyana election in March 2020 and spearheaded the recounting that occurred in June and July. The observers and recount experts certified that the results were a reflection of the will of the people. The international observers declared that the election itself was free and fair. With its success in Guyana last year, CARICOM should continue to play a meaningful role in observing elections in the region

and issuing a firmer voice in pronouncing on the credibility (or lack thereof) of elections. In addition, CARICOM should send advance missions to countries to assess their readiness to hold elections. Had it done so between 1968 and 1992, Guyana would not have slipped into becoming a dictatorship.

Non-state actors like civic forces also played a key role last year in observing the elections as well as the count and recount of ballots, and in pressuring the incumbent to accept the outcome of the vote. And a few of us worked behind the scenes to make sure GECOM did the right thing. Civic organisations need to strengthen their presence in the society and in holding politicians to account. Nonstate actors must play a greater role in elections and in promoting peace

among politicians. Civil society must get into a position to negotiate actionable and legitimate commitments by politicians to embrace stability.

At the same time, I note that outside intervention and civic pressure would not work unless political leaders to adhere to the democratic process and respect the wishes of voters.

Credible elections remain a significant aspect of the democratic process of Guyana. Elections convey the will of the people.

Although democracy was saved last year, a number of factors, such as corruption and election irregularities continue to pose challenges and remain Achilles’ heel in consolidating democracy.

Yours truly, Dr. Vishnu Bisram

Politicians, church leaders and others of influence should cease spreading fake news and vaccine-related fearmongering Dear Editor,

IT is clear from the recent surge in cases that the Delta Variant is here in Guyana. The unvaccinated are holding this country ransom. I repeat: The unvaccinated are holding this country ransom.

We are hearing cries of “I have an immune system”. But alas, the more unvaccinated persons there are, the virus will mutate and become more deadly. The WHO is now monitoring a new variant called Mu which is vaccine resistant.

Imagine if that were to hit here. The science says that once you are fully vaccinated you are well protected against symptomatic COVID-19 as well as death. The unvaccinated stand

a greater chance of becoming seriously ill and dying. The current vaccines do offer protection against the Delta but there is a miniscule fraction of breakthrough cases.

The virus is spreading amongst the unvaccinated allowing it to mutate into new variants? How much more can we go on with this? Vaccination is the only way out of this pandemic.

However, me criticising the anti-vaxxers will get me nowhere. I have viewed many of their remarks justifying their stance. While I understand that there are some people who are genuinely fearful and have not had access to information, a lot of people choose to opt in the direction of bizarre conspiracy theories and

misinformation, especially when they are being pushed by those with high influence.

Human beings are imperfect, we believe what we want to believe.

When those in influential positions spread misinformation and engage in vaccine-related fearmongering, guess what will be the result?

The positions of the anti-vaxxers will only become emboldened!

Up to two days (September 1, 2021) a notable politician (Sherod Duncan) wrote on his Facebook that expired COVID-19 vaccines were being distributed in Region Seven. This was later debunked.

However, the damage was done. Can you imagine the comments under such a post? One person commented that the government is trying

to kill people. Another commenter called on God to “save them”. If you are in a position of influence, and you have a large following, you should use this influence for the good of mankind. You should be using it to encourage your followers to get vaccinated. Why instead play to people’s fears? This is sick, this is degeneracy.

While Sherod is one of the more prominent politicians circulating this nonsense, the blame cannot solely be rested at his feet. There are pastors spreading vaccine hesitancy. Nigel London, who emerged as a prominent figure in the anti-vax crusade went as far as to hold a protest by the square of the revolution. He wore what looked like a piece of cardboard

dangling from his neck that read “Your Body, Your Choice”. I trust this means he has changed his stance on LGBTQ rights. I also trust he supports women’s reproductive rights.

Yielding influence over a congregation is a power by itself. Why not use this power to positively influence the masses to get ‘vaxxed’ and trust the medical professionals? Rather than spread wild madness about “mark of the beast”.

F u r t h e r, e v e r y one has a choice but choices come with consequences, especially given the fact that we are in a pandemic and the current situation has to be treated as such. Nothing is wrong with the current regulations. The scientific facts and

info are out there and the government is circulating them. While it would not hurt for more circulation of info what will have a greater effect, politicians, church leaders and others of influence should cease the spread of fake news and vaccine-related fearmongering. They need to use their influence to promote vaccinations rather than embolden the posture of the anti-vaxxers.

These miscreants need to stop playing petty games with the lives of our people. These individuals are worse than the virus itself. Stop endangering people’s lives. Use your influence for the greater good.

Yours faithfully, Nikhil Sankar

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Is the APNU+AFC Coalition in opposition with itself?

A S TO N I S H I N G LY and astoundingly, in a mere few weeks, we have learnt more of the internal dynamics of the APNU+AFC since it entered and exited power between 2015 and 2020. We were always aware of the fact

that the primary focus of the APNU+AFC Coalition, when in government, was to conceal schisms and cracks within itself, to provide us with positive images of itself, and to ridicule the then PPP/C opposition. There were no

shortages of supporters and scalawags who propped, propelled, and promoted such diktat. The plan was effective insofar as it kept most Guyanese in limbo not knowing exactly in what direction the Coalition would swing,

reinforced by attempts to hang on to power through the school of ‘rigology’ following March 2, 2020, general elections. Then in a volte-face on August 2, 2020, the Coalition’s paradise was lost, to borrow poet John Milton’s title, by all who believed that PNC’s rigging of general elections for twenty-eight years should not be repeated in Guyana.

I pause here to say that the relinquishing of power by the APNU+AFC Coalition was not axiomatic.

Someday, Guyanese will know exactly what went on within the APNU+AFC Coalition that “pushed” them to give up power. My contention is pressure from the United States. There appears to be an internal squabbling within the Coalition whether or not to give up power based on one word, “Sanctions.”

That said, for over a year after the Coalition was booted out of power, we have noticed that it has embarked on a journey of catnapping, rising now and again only when the situations demand attention while peddling the falsehood that March 2, 2020, general election was stolen from them.

This desperate peddling is losing traction and ebbing into oblivion on a daily basis as many, including the supporters of the Coalition, have woken up to the thought that the Coalition indeed was defeated in the last general election. Yet, we have been on a roller coaster guessing as to what has been going in the opposition. It is important to keep in mind that the opposition’s support base constitutes just under fifty per cent of the population, and we would like to sting their sleepy conscious into that direction of

responsibility without misguiding them to embrace violence. The opposition is a loose cannon. Do you remember the Cotton Tree Village race riot, coming months after the long standoff over the general election results?

From all indications, even to the most distant observer, we recognise that a political culture of inconsistency had become consistent. We observe that the missing in action syndrome had become the norm of the opposition. We understand that when a political party loses power, normalcy prevails, meaning that the party goes back to the drawing board to sort out what went wrong, regroup and chart a course on how to return to power. This does not seem to be the main focus since the Coalition maintains that the PPP/C has been installed into government, a reckless declaration equivalent to a blow below the belt. The opposition, however, has a vicious desire to return to power, a pipe dream for at least the next 10 years.

Then, out of nowhere, the opposition tossed us a bone, revealing its long-held secret. What appeared to be a rumor became factual. There has always been a challenge to David Granger ’s leadership within the APNU+AFC Coalition. Some have been saying that Granger is an incompetent leader.

His fluffing and bluffing style, dubbed as calm and cool and collective in public, was simply not frolicsome enough to keep the party going from abinitio.

Others have been saying that the man never had a chance to enjoy his victory dance in 2015. Everyone in the

Coalition wants to be a leader. Meanwhile, the AFC, the main limp partner in the Coalition, is saying that PNC problems are not theirs; wanting us to believe that its mollycoddling duties in the Coalition is fading. The madness does not add up.

After holding Guyana hostage for five years with a death grip, these political maniacs want to return to power.

Interestingly, too, is that the split in the opposition seemed to have influenced a Brooklyn, New York-based umbrella organisation calling itself Guyanese Organisations against Racism (GOAR), headed by Rickford Burke, alleging racism by the PPP/C Government against Black Guyanese? Sundry analysts have dismissed this accusation as baseless, pointing to a new strategy of destabilisation by the opposition and its supporters against the PPP. The questions worth asking are as follows: (a) Why did the protest occur overseas rather than in Guyana? Is it that the overseas supporters do not have confidence in the top brass of the opposition that lost the 2020 general election? (b) Why is it that there were so many so-called backbenchers of opposition at the protest in Brooklyn? Is it that the top brass was not invited and that it was GOAR’s way of sending a message that change is necessary in the opposition?

Or, is it that the top brass of the opposition was unable to attend because it is still subject to sanctions for its role to rig the 2020 general election.

Whatever might be reasons for the above entanglement, it is now clear that opposition is in opposition with itself, an unenvied nightmare (lomarsh.roopnarine@ jsums.edu).

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Hinterland communities to benefit equally from oil-and-gas wealth

PRESIDENT Irfaan Ali says the impending wealth from the oil and gas sector will benefit all Guyanese equally.

The Head of State gave this assurance while addressing the Regional Toshaos’ Meeting in Region Nine on Saturday.

“Let me assure you once again, that you would benefit equally from the resources of oil and gas in your communities, there will be no distinction.

There are those who would want to have distinction, those who want to have a model that separates the class structure, under the PPP/Civic Government there will be no discrimination, all Guyanese will benefit equally,” he stated.

Dr. Ali said the region is expected to undergo massive transformational development over the next decade and consultations will be held with Amerindian communities.

“The region is going to be transformed

President Irfaan Ali addressing the Regional Toshaos’ Meeting in Region Nine on Saturday

and it is important that economic and social transformation be done in consultation and consistent with your vision of indigenous and sustainable development. It must be done in consultation with you.”

The Head of State further reiterated that his government remains committed to “strengthening inclusion” in national development. He urged the Indigenous leaders

to position their communities for greater development.

“I assure you that you will not be sidelined from the process of national development, but rather, integrated to that process…my government is committed to strengthening our inclusion in national decision making. We will engage with you continuously, and do so in a genuine spirit of inclusion. We will lis-

ten and have concerns addressed to the best of our abilities.”

President Ali also noted that Region Nine will become the heartland for agriculture, a vibrant centre for industry and trade, and a hotspot for adventure, sport and nature-based tourism.

The decision to engage the Toshaos regionally was taken as part of precautionary measures to guard against the COVID-19

pandemic. The pandemic has caused the cancellation of the National Toshaos Conference for two years now, however the government saw it fit to still engage with the Toshaos.

Speaking with DPI, several Toshaos expressed their gratitude to the government for the initiative to keep them engaged as there are burning issues that need to be discussed and issues that need

to be addressed in the communities.

In addition, President Ali presented the Presidential Grant cheques to the Toshaos.

This grant has been increased by 10 per cent since the PPP/C government took office.

Eight villages from the region also received tractors.

The Head of State was accompanied by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony; Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal; Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn; Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond; Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd; Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat; Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar and Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud.

(DPI)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

281 graduate from BIT programme Graduates with Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton; Region Six Chairman, David Armogan; Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir; Chief Executive Officer of BIT, Richard Maughn and BIT Technical Officer, Clarence Shako, at the BIT graduation in Berbice, Region Six

SOME 281 individuals graduated from several programmes being offered by the Ministry of Labour’s Board of Industrial Training (BIT). The graduation ceremony hosted on Friday at Outback Adventures in Canje, Berbice, Region Six saw graduates of all age groups.

The Department of Public Information (DPI) interviewed several middle-aged graduates who encouraged younger persons to take advantage of the courses. Forty-seven-year-old Jephthah Junor said the training programmes prepared persons with the necessary skills to enter the workforce. “ We l l , I a l w a y s wanted to learn bobcat operation along with excavator; it is something I always wanted to do. So here I have the opportunity; I told myself 47 is not too old, after all I still young. So, I took advantage of the opportunity and thankfully everything went well so far. In fact, I encourage any other person, do not be contented with just one certificate, try to get five or six or ten even because in that way you will be properly pre-

pared for the market.”

Oneika Ramsuchit, a mother of three who has the skills, but was not accredited encouraged other women to be empowered by upskilling. “It is basically to be certified because like you would know people would say you have the skills and mindset but you don’t have the certificate to show you are qualified in this area. So having a certificate tells a lot, it gives you more power and, as a woman, I encourage persons like-minded to diversify your skills, be entrepreneurs for the younger girls and younger persons.

“Especially women, you should get up and get, diversify your skills and mindset so that today or tomorrow if something happened, you can be able to stand on your feet and feed your family because we women tend to be left with the family.”

Rodrick Ageday said the course provided him with the opportunity to upgrade his life. “I always wanted a certificate to upgrade myself in a better way that I could get a better money and establish to get a better job. I am trying to establish myself to get a job at the oil rig and do something better and upgrade more in the

heavy-duty course,” he told DPI. Additionally, the programmes provided teens straight out of high school to advance their career goals.

Safiyyha Alli also expressed her love for machines. “Well, there are many courses available and I wanted to be a part of them. I intend to work because I love machines, so I will probably work at MACORP or one of the companies with machines.”

Meanwhile, Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, MP, highlighted that persons should be multi-skilled and multitalented.

“You have to be multi-talented and multiskilled. so, when a door is closed, you can walk into another door. So, the point is you have to be multi-talented and multi-skilled to ensure that you will always remain employable.

“Therefore, one of the things BIT must do is whilst you give skills to those who don’t have skills you have to ensure that those that already have a skill are accredited and certified because they will be displaced by foreigners. And we can go and cry as much as we want, that will not change the situation.

What will change the situation is what we are doing here today.”

Alleged bandit caught in gold heist at Stabroek Market

POLICE have captured one of three suspects who reportedly stole $1.4 million in jewellery, $300,000 in local currency and belts valued $100,000 from a jewellery store in the Stabroek Market early Saturday.

The stall is owned by a 47-year-old businessman and the name of the store was not released by the police.

According to a police report, ranks from the City Constabulary were on foot patrol duty when they heard a loud banging coming from inside the market at about 04:30 hours on Saturday.

Upon investigation, they saw three men escaping on foot through the meat section of the market.

“The ranks gave chase and apprehended one of the

males who dropped a bluecoloured gift bag while the other two escaped,” the police reported.

A suspect was found with a transparent plastic bag containing cash and a quantity of gold and silver jewellery were found in his crotch.

Investigations are ongoing.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

TACKLING VACCINE HESITANCY, ADDRESSING COMMON MYTHS Dr. Shivani Samlall. MBBS, Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology with a sub-specialty in Gynecology Oncology, with over 10 years of practice. Dr Samlall can be contacted at drshivanisamlall26@gmail.com COVID-19. THE BIG QUESTION IS -- ‘VACCINES OR NO VACCINES’?

MY columns are generally focused on women’s health, after all this is my area of specialty. However, having studied clinical trials and research and seeing the surge of cases due to the new variants and the number of deaths in Guyana and other parts of the world, I have decided to dedicate this column to discuss COVID -19 and the vaccines. It is my hope that I can, in some way help persons to make informed choices when it comes to the COVID-19 vaccines.

THE EFFECTS OF THE PANDEMIC Let’s first start with the gruesome effects of this pandemic. We have been in it for over a year now. We were horrified as we saw the devastating impact of this disease, on TV, on social media, on the news etc., ripple through country after country. We saw the number of deaths, the effects on the healthcare system, the economy, our families, our lives. We prayed for a cure.

We tried (individuals and doctors) different medications, and treatments hoping to cure this deadly disease or even to reduce infection rates, hospitalisation rates, aid recovery and ultimately curb deaths from the disease. We however found that none of these options made significant difference or impact on these things.

COVID 19- VACCINES Vaccines were developed.

We hoped that this was the ultimate solution or “the cure” but found out instead that it wasn’t. We are all disheartened. However, the good news is different studies done in many countries have shown that these vaccines offer many benefits: they reduce infection rates, hospitalisation rates, ICU admissions and death from the disease. In fact, a recent study has shown that the unvaccinated is 17 more times likely to be hospitalised

from COVID-19. When I look at all the additional data that is available for the vaccines, my honest opinion is that this is the closest to a cure that we have. More so, how lucky are we as a third world country?

Guyana, unlike many countries even first world countries, have access to these vaccines.

VACCINE HESITANCY. WHY ARE WE HESITANT TO TAKE THE VACCINES? I understand vaccine hesitancy. Trust me, I get it. We are in a different century. We now have access to a diverse set of information. Some of good source, some of bad source.

But in research, we are taught to filter information. Reason being, not everything that you read is accurate. Additionally, some might be accurate, but contradict the majority.

The general tendency is to be guided by the majority.

Additionally, there must be some trust in our public health system, if we ensure that our children receive their childhood vaccines. We must have some trust in our doctors, if when they recommend that we take chemotherapy and radiotherapy, to cure our cancer, we do so despite the many side effects. The bottom line is, health organisations, scientists, doctors, etc., the very persons who we trust to take care of our health when we are ill, are recommending that we take the vaccines. Who would you be guided by?

I know that they are many myths about the vaccines that are circulating, and which are affecting your decision to be vaccinated. Let’s discuss a few.

1. Myth: The COVID-19 vaccines are not safe because of the quick production.

Fact: Research on related coronaviruses started many years before COVID-19 was discovered. Also, because they are mRNA vaccines, they are much faster to make than traditional vaccines. However, it’s important to note that, despite this, these vaccines went through the same testing (three phases of clinical trials) and rigorous safety standards as all other vaccines. These vaccines would not have been approved unless they were proven to be safe and effective.

2. Myth: COVID-19 vaccines cause you to test positive for COVID-19.

Fact: The vaccines do not contain live virus strain and will not cause you to contract the virus nor cause you to test positive for it.

3. Myth: These mRNA vaccines have dangerous ingredients.

Fact: This is not true. The mRNA vaccines are free of preservatives and only contain mRNA, a fatty coating layer to protect the mRNA, PEG (polyethylene glycol), and a combination of salts, sugar, and water.

4. Myth: It’s best to wait to get the vaccines.

Fact: Waiting for the vaccines places you at risk of contracting the virus and its variants and getting severely ill and dying.

5. Myth: People with underlying medical conditions should not take the vaccines.

Fact: These people are of a greater risk of severe illness and death due to the COVID-19 virus and its variants and should therefore protect themselves by being vaccinated.

6. Myth: I already had COVID-19 so I do not need the vaccines.

Fact: You can get the infection more than once.

Getting vaccinated will provide added protection against severe illness and death.

7. Myth: The vaccines control the general population by microchip tracking.

Fact: There is no microchip in the vaccines and the vaccines cannot tract people or gather personal information.

Conclusion: Many studies have shown that vaccines continue to play a critical role in preventing serious COVID-19 illness and remain safe and highly effective in preventing hospitalisations and death.

While there is no cure for COVID-19, the vaccines together with social distancing, wearing face masks and sanitising regularly, will be our best bet in surviving this pandemic. Remember no one is safe. So, let us all make the right decision before it’s too late.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Fire destroys woman’s Sarah Johanna house _owner suspects arson

What remains of Mala Narine’s house at Sarah Johanna following Friday night’s fire

Mala Narine, the owner of the house, who said she lost everything in the fire A WOMAN is now left with millions of dollars in losses after a fire destroyed her Lot 111-114 Sarah Johanna, East Bank Demerara house, completely gutting the top floor on Friday night.

Mala Narine suspects that the fire was set by her ex-boyfriend with whom she broke up about a year ago. During an interview with the Sunday Chronicle, Narine noted that she and the man were involved in a common-law relationship for several years, and after

things ended, he allegedly threatened several times to destroy her house.

Narine said she was not inside the house at the time of the fire, as she was spending time with her immediate family who live in close proximity to her house.

According to the distraught woman, she first got wind that all was not well at her house when a minibus driver called telling her that he saw fire coming from her living room as he was driving by.

Narine claims that the driver told her he’d seen a man “jumping out of the house” just moments before the fire broke out.

“The busman said a man jump out of the house, and right away I suspect that is the person I used to live with,” Narine said, adding: “And this isn’t the first

time he did something like this. Last year, on the 11th of November, he jump in the house and burn out my blinds; so I know it was him.”

Narine was unable to save any of the items in her home, which she said was fully furnished.

“I would say I lost millions in the fire, because eve-

ry year I does put in things; up to last year Christmas I put in over a million dollars worth of furniture in the house,” she said, adding: “Is everything in the house we lose; all my furniture and clothes, and everything that went in the wardrobe. Everything burn up; and we lose the house too.”

Fire Chief Kalamadeen Edoo told the Sunday Chronicle that based on their initial investigations, the Guyana Fire Service suspects that it was arson.

He said that ranks are currently conducting further investigations to ascertain the origin and cause of the fire.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Abram Zuil Secondary students to be relocated to Johanna Cecelia STUDENTS from Abram Zuil Secondary School in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) will be relocated to a facility in Johanna Cecelia. This decision was made in consultation with parents who were concerned that their children would not be able to access face-toface learning.

Minister of Education Priya Manickchand spearheaded a meeting on Friday last to listen to this and other concerns of parents whose children attend the school, which is currently being reconstructed.

“It wasn’t in a place where we could repair a piece and repair another piece; the whole school had to be taken down.

And that was necessary to be able to serve students who are going to that school; the children from that community,” the minister said.

M i n i s t e r M a n i c kchand told the parents that she will be meeting with the contractors to

ensure that the project is not delayed. She also related that those problems will arise while development is taking place, but only for a short period.

“To make a really fancy facility, we have to inconvenience your children; we don’t want to be in a position where we are struggling to find space for an entire school, but it is what it is, and with development will come some level of inconvenience

for a short time,” she said.

The Abram Zuil Secondary School is currently under construction, since it was in a deplorable state, and is not the best environment for learning. The minister also encouraged parents to get their children vaccinated, as it is necessary for their protection, and for them to have access to opportunities across the world. (DPI)

Education Minister Priya Manickchand addressing parents of Abram Zuil Secondary School students at Friday’s meeting

Some of the parents that were at the meeting

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Partnership between police and public key to public safety _ Commander Persaud tells Port Kaituma residents

EFFECTIVE partnerships between law enforcement and community stakeholders are essential to public safety, and it is important that government agencies, community groups, nonprofits, businesses, and private citizens embrace it as a shared responsibility.

This was the sentiment expressed by the Regional Commander of Division One, Superintendent Boodnarine Persaud during his address to stakeholders at the Matarkai Sub-Region, Port Kaituma Community Centre.

In attendance were businessmen, Toshaos, Councillors, members of the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), vendors, operators of public trans-

Divisional Commander, Superintendent Boodnarine Persaud (standing at head table) taking questions from a section of the gathering at the Port Kaituma Community Centre

portation, religious leaders, and members of the Community Policing Groups.

During the two-

hour-long meeting, the Superintendent emphasised that law enforcement and community members

must develop positive working relationships in order to increase the trust between the police and the public.

“My office will be used to provide innovative and creative resources that help law enforcement engage community leaders, build lasting partnerships, and improve the health of our communities,” the Police Commander told the Sunday Chronicle in an invited comment.

He also advocated for partnerships among the different groups, in an effort to minimise crime in their community, and foster good Police/ Public relationships.

F u r t h e r, h e d i s cussed the strategies

of community-oriented policing, and explained the benefits of working together on sharing ideas and information, in an effort to reduce or eliminate crime in the different communities in the Matarkai sub-region.

Persons at the meeting also had an opportunity to voice their concerns, and among those issues was the manner in which police officers speak to the public; the lack of confidentiality in police ranks; the limited number of ranks at police stations; the need for traffic signs to be erected; and the impartiality of police ranks in executing their duties when

it comes to persons breaching the COVID-19 restrictions.

While in the region, the Commander also visited the Port Kaituma Police Station, and held an instruction class with the ranks stationed there.

“We spoke about Standing Order 12, which deals with appearances and conduct. There were several reports against ranks for the manner in which they are speaking to members of the public.

The ranks were encouraged to put their best foot forward, and work together in an effort to reduce crime in the Community,” Commander Persaud said.

Divisional Commander, Superintendent Boodnarine Persaud (seated right at table) in discussion with ranks on duty about the Standing Orders of the Guyana Police Force

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Decoding Granger’s gamble IN modern societies, if there is a belief in democratic principles, you will find political leaders regulating their behaviours to follow suit. Even if they do not believe in a strong democracy, they will appear so.

They will do things that ‘kerfuffle’ their would-be competitors in society to satisfy their protestation.

Foolishly, the bottom tier of the organisation feels that things a re c h a n g i n g a n d happening in their interests. Sadly, the main protagonist of all the confusion is buying time, regrouping, and reassessing the situation to make a strong bid for political leadership again.

This development closely resembles the unpredictable behaviour of Mr. David Granger. The PNC went public about his absence only because of the nosy and relentless media. On Thursday, Mr. Granger took official leave from unexpectedly leading the PNC. Then the way was clear to have Chairman Volda Lawrence take control of the party indefinitely.

Many people are reporting that his health is acting up again. Others say that he wants to bow out of the mess and move gracefully into the next phase of life without the political baggage hanging around him like an albatross clinging to his neck.

Firstly, Mr. Granger has not relinquished the reigns of political power.

Mr. Granger has not given up control ling the PNC and

APNU+AFC Coalition. He will be the de facto head of all the mischievous activities but will not likely get pinpointed because of deniability. Also, if the leadership does not see this and buys into the arguments that Mr. Granger is busy taking care of his health, they would be foolish and guilty of exhibiting wishful thinking.

As a former President and Chief of Staff, Mr. Granger knows how to use skillful and deceptive strategies when combatting the enemy.

He knows that it is abominable to leave the PNC Executive alone, at this time, at Congress Place. They will destroy themselves by infighting for the leadership which will be brutal and bitter.

Also, Mr. Granger closed the door on his chapter in politics like a true Burhnamite as Robert Corbin did when he stood down as leader back in 2010. Corbin was still active behind the scenes. Therefore, this exit strategy is likely to backfire.

Tell the people the truth, tell them that you are bluffing and feeling out a way to come back to the centre of politics.

S e c o n d l y, w i t h Granger away, the politicians will set Congress for November to elect a new leader. This move will be a new challenge for the everobservant PPP. The political dynamic will change increasingly, but it will almost remain the same in certain respects.

The APNU+AFC

Coalition will be intertwined now more heavily in the PNC political artillery.

PNC will become bolder and more shameful in its politics. The foot soldiers will start to march, protesting against this and that once again on the streets.

Thirdly, if this is a political ploy by Mr. Granger, Lawrence should know that everything she does will undergo questioning. She could still prove her political mettle. She will have a lot of Opposition and enemies during this transitional phase.

Lawrence has to watch Mr. Granger closely. It is not in his nature to cede leadership in this way. This move is a bluff. He was at the helm during the darkest period in modern Guyanese history. He does not know how to deal with matters of party politics.

Finally, the likelihood of PNC/ APNU+AFC resurfacing from this state is almost sure.

Whether or not the PNC will bounce back, but the fractionalised party bureaucracy will remain, it is still left to see whether the PNC/ APNU+AFC opposition could engage the government in responsible politics and politics of development. They need to devise a new strategy moving forward without clinging to the race and discrimination banter. The writings on the wall are clear, and they speak of defeat at the hands of their worthy adversaries.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Oil can mean a new role for the diaspora

THE diaspora community has long been an important group supporting Guyana’s economic growth.

Remittances, which have reached as high as US$400 million per year in the past few years, contribute directly to economic stimulus and Guyana’s highly educated and economically active di-

aspora plays a key role in drawing investment for the country’s future.

As the oil and gas sector continues to rapidly expand, the diaspora’s role is set to be even more vital.

Guyana’s diaspora, especially those with unique skills in the oil and gas space have the opportunity to boost investment, create job opportunities, and

launch new homegrown industries that will be important for sustained economic growth. Oil and gas also provide the opportunity to finally reverse the brain drain that has plagued Guyana over the last half century.

Since oil production started in late 2019, the government has been working to boost en-

gagement with its diaspora. This year’s first ever Virtual Diaspora Conference brought together hundreds of diaspora members from across the globe to engage in plans and ideas to create new opportunities and increase prosperity in the country.

Looking forward, Foreign Minister Hugh Todd stated, “the diaspora played a critical role shoring up the Guyana economy and supporting its vulnerable communities…, but it can contribute in other ways, like philanthropy, investments, and skills transfers.” With advanced technology, diaspora can engage more from abroad, by advocating for Guyana’s industry and supporting new investment opportunities.

In addition to virtual events, the government is working to engage with diaspora in other ways. Much like neighbouring oil and gas producing countries, including Brazil and Mexico, the restructured Diaspora Affairs Unit now

sits under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and aims to engage with diaspora members to bring expertise home.

The government is also working to formalise a Diaspora Engagement Strategy and Action Plan that will establish relationships with relevant communities to harness available skills and expertise to bolster development.

After about 18 months of oil production, Guyana has announced 20 commercial oil finds and close to nine billion barrels of oil equivalent in reserve. This is no small market, and diaspora has the opportunity to revert its attention to the homeland and drive new investment in the energy industry, as well as other service-based sectors like law and accounting for the influx of new companies setting up offices here.

On top of these initiatives and as part of a major strategy by the

government, President Irfaan Ali is calling on diaspora communities to assist the government in the crafting of its multisectoral development plan. Increased interaction with experienced diaspora members can fill gaps in institutions and provide more skilled labour for specialised industries. This can also help support efforts to increase local content.

This is what increased diaspora engagement could look like – positive development that could provide Guyana with sustained growth long term. However, diaspora members could be looking for additional

incentives to return.

Now that the country has the economic and financial opportunities to recapture attention, it must encourage the return of diaspora in other ways as well. Guyana’s growing oil and gas industry means that the era of educated Guyanese leaving for better opportunities abroad may fi-

nally be coming to end.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Advice on supplements especially for your elderly folks

THE evolution and breakthrough of medical sciences complemented by advance technology has improved quality of life and increased life expectancy. Hence, there is a growing elderly population (65 years and over) which demands a menu of requirements since their bodily functions no longer perform as efficiently.

Some studies found that in the developed countries about 25-30 per cent of the elderly suffer from deficiency of vitamins and minerals due to many factors such as reduced out-door activities, irregular and/or nutritionally unbalanced meals, dietary restrictions, other disease conditions such as digestive disorder, decreased earning/ spending power or simply limited mobility. This newly adopted lifestyle has contributed to known deficiencies in vitamin D, vitamins B6 and B12, folic acid and calcium.

The best nutritional solution is whole foods such as grains, nuts, fruits and

vegetables, milk and dairy products. A fruit may provide more than one supplement, for example an orange not only provides Vitamin C but also calcium and fibre. It was found from studies done by the Mayo Clinic that phytochemicals, exclusively found in plant based foods such as legumes, fruits and vegetables, are linked to reduction of cancer, heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis.

However, thanks to the pandemic (20 months and counting), along with the unprecedented climate change, the world is threatened by an economic and hunger crisis especially if measures are not implemented such as shrewd budgeting priorities and selfsustaining strategies. In the general adult population, apart from the elderly, there may be nutritional deficiencies due to the fast-paced hectic lifestyles and poor meal planning. Many persons are not afforded the luxury of time to have at least one “sit down” meal per day. In such situations, the use of vitamin

and mineral supplements is convenient, cost-effective and affordable.

When affordability is not an issue, it was observed that less than 50 per cent of the elderly may take a “one daily” supplement with all the recommended daily requirements. There is a small subset who may consume three (3) supplements, so ensure that you are reading the labels and taking only what is needed to prevent overdose. A red flag alert is the use of some herbal supplements which can interact with other medications prescribed concurrently and in some cases cause undesirable effects or compromised organ function. So please inform your healthcare provider for proper advice; full disclosure is encouraged for your own safety.

The terms, required daily intake (RDI), recommended daily allowance (RDA), or the daily value (DV) refer to the amount of vitamins and minerals established by the Food and Drug (Turn to page 21)

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GRPA partners with PAHO/WHO on sexual, reproductive health training

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 5, 2021

A section of the training session on advocacy with young people from Regions One to Seven THE Guyana Responsible Association (GRPA), with support from the Pan American Health Organiszation (PAHO) and World Health Organisation (WHO), has undertaken an advocacy training programme for youths to address the need of sexual and reproductive health services for vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The training forms part of the WHO’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) COVID-19 response project titled, ‘Strengthening Civil Society Engagement in the COVID-19 Response’, which is being implemented locally through the GRPA. It also involves the distribution of care packages to women, adolescent mothers, youths, and other vulnerable groups.

Through the PAHO/ WHO COVID-19 response

initiative, GRPA is delivering more than 300 free life-saving services, including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing, screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), contraceptive implants, and Intra Uterine Devices (IUDs) to youths and women during the COVID-19 pandemic, to improve their health and well-being.

On Friday and Saturday, 20 youths from Regions One (Barima-Waini), Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Three (Essequibo Islands-West-Demerara), Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Five (Mahaica-Berbice), Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) participated in the training programme at the Mirage Banquet Hall, in Alberttown, here in See page 19

GRPA Executive Director, Arlene Chaturia (right) handing over the care packages to the Ministry of Health’s Adolescent Health Coordinator, Cilandell Glen (left)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 5, 2021

AG wants common legislation for Caribbean to tackle corruption

ATTORNEY-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., has expressed a preference for a common, specific legislation in the Caribbean which addresses corruption, especially now that Guyana is an oil-producing nation, a sector which introduces novel challenges, risks and responsibilities.

This was discussed during a courtesy call to the Attorney-General on Friday last by Bo Shakira Harris, Associate Programme Management Officer, and Jason Reichelt, Crime and Prevention Office at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

The courtesy call on the Attorney-General was so as to update him on the recently completed three-day anti-corruption workshop in Guyana, which was facilitated by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, with support from the UNODC, and was aimed at building institutional capacity for reporting and fighting corruption.

The UNDOC officers informed Minister Nandlall that Guyana is currently under review, and as such their role is to support that process, thus, the workshop focused on the checklist process which involves Guyana assessing itself against the United Nations (UN) Con-

vention Against Corruption.

After the checklist will have been completed, there is a desk-based review where recommendations would be made highlighting how Guyana can strengthen its laws, polices and institutions dealing with anti-corruption, which will then enable the country to fully implement the Convention.

Minister Nandlall highlighted that the government has to take the requisite steps to build the regulatory framework to address the issue of corruption in the various sectors. He said he would prefer that there is a common, specific legislation in the Caribbean to address the issue at hand.

The UNODC officers have indicated that they provide assistance to countries as it relates to reviewing and preparing draft laws and legislation. As such, the Attorney General informed the visitors that Impact Justice Caribbean has prepared a model Anti-Corruption Bill for the region which the UNODC officers indicated a willingness to review.

The Attorney General reaffirmed that Guyana is committed to combatting corruption in all its forms and this is evidenced by the fact that the country has signed on to all major international anti-corruption agreements

in the hemisphere.

Further, he reminded that the government has taken a strong stance against corruption and has instituted several legal proceedings to tackle corruption which permeated and flowed from the previous administration both in the civil as well as criminal courts.

Also present at the meeting were Joanna Bond, Deputy-Chief Parliamentary Counsel and Chevy Devonish, State Counsel of the Attorney General Chambers.

From page 18 the capital, Georgetown, while on September 11 and 12, ten more youths from Regions Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) will be doing their training in Linden, seat of administration for Region 10.

In addition, the GRPA has also donated 100 care packages, which are made up of personal protective equipment, feminine hygiene products, and baby supplies, to the Ministry of Health’s Adolescent Health Unit, which are to be given to adolescent mothers at community health centres

across Guyana.

The COVID-19 response initiative by PAHO/WHO builds on the existing collaboration between CSOs, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), United Nations agencies and other partners in providing direct funding to CSOs and community groups to implement COVID-19 related prevention and control measures, and to establish platforms for regular CSOs’ engagement at the national, regional, and global levels.

During the training, the GRPA also presented its final report of a qualitative assessment on access to sexual and reproductive health services by vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 pandemic in

Guyana.

The purpose of the research was to assess the experiences of youth, women and other vulnerable groups when accessing HIV, contraceptives, and other sexual and reproductive health services during the COVID-19 pandemic in Guyana.

The GRPA in a press release on Saturday noted that the findings and recommendations, which forms part of the report, will be used to lobby the Ministry of Health for improved sexual and reproductive health services in Guyana.

The report is intended to be presented to the Ministry of Health by the youths who participated in the training.

Standing from left are: State Counsel, Chevy Devonish; Crime and Prevention Office at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Jason Reichelt; Deputy-Chief Parliamentary Counsel, Joanna Bond; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C. and UNODC Associate Programme Management Officer, Bo Shakira Harris

GRPA partners with PAHO/WHO on ...

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 5, 2021

21

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021

Four women succumb to COVID-19 _183 new cases recorded

THE COVID-19 death toll continues to climb as Guyana registered four more deaths within 24 hours taking the death toll to 640 since the virus

was first detected here in March 2020.

The latest deaths are four females – a 51-year-old from Region Four (Demerara – Mahaica) and another, age

79, from Region Five (Mahaica – Berbice) both of whom died on September 2, 2021, while a 62-yearold from Region Six (East Berbice – Corentyne) and

Advice on supplements...

(From page 17) Administration (FDA) which is essential for the healthy functioning of the body at a specific age range. See the table below to guide you on the amounts that are required, bearing in mind that a balanced diet also provides vitamins and minerals.

Note that some vitamins are fat soluble whilst others are water soluble. What this means is that excessive amounts of the fat soluble ones will be stored in the fat cells in the body causing unwanted effects. The mnemonic ADEK is the memory aid that the fat soluble vitamins are A, D, E and K. Vitamins B and vitamin C are water soluble so excessive amounts of the water soluble ones will pass out of the body in the urine.

Interestingly, unlike the mandatory FDA approval prior to the release for sale and consumption for all pre-

scription and OTC (over the counter) meds, supplements are not required to be evaluated for safety and efficacy and hence authorisation is not a requirement. So on most labels you will see a disclaimer that these statements were not evaluated by the FDA. Also stated is that the product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

As a rule of thumb, adjustments to both diet and medication dosages for the elderly are required because of reduced renal clearance and delayed metabolism (diminished capacity to breakdown and process).

If no adjustments are made intensified or prolonged effects are observed. So a 50 plus formulation will contain lesser amounts of ingredients (except Calcium and vitamin D) as seen on the label.

In addition, a senior may not consume enough fibre

hence they may suffer with constipation. So if you were to check the active ingredients in a supplement like Centrum Silver, which is an appropriate multivitamin and mineral for the elderly, you will not see any iron.

A warning for someone with kidney stones (regardless of age) should be to avoid meat, milk and milk products or calcium supplements since these contribute to the size of the stone and hence pain and or difficulty of surgery.

For further advice consult the pharmacist at Medicine Express PHARMACY located at 223 Camp Street, between Lamaha and New Market Streets. If you have any queries, comments or further information on the above topic kindly forward them to medicine.express@ gmail.com or send them to 223 Camp Street, N/burg. Tel #225-5142.

an 85-year-old from Region Three (Essequibo Islands – West Demerara) died on September 3, 2021.

The Ministry of Health reported that they all died while receiving care at a government medical institution; they were admitted as patients with COVID-19-like symptoms and tested positive for the virus.

In addition to the death toll, the number of new cases of persons who tested positive for the virus continues to increase as well with an additional 183 new cases confirmed from some 1,274 tests conducted within the 24-hour period from Thursday to Friday last.

With the new cases, the country’s overall number of confirmed cases stands at 26,295; the bulk of new cases were recorded in Region Four which saw 124 people testing positive.

Region One (Barima – Waini) recorded five new cases; Region Two (Pomeroon-Supernaam) recorded 12; Region Five, five new cases; Region Six, 10; Region Seven (Cuyuni – Mazaruni), five; Region Eight (Potaro – Sipuruni), one new case and 10 (Upper Demerara – Upper Berbice), five.

At the end of Friday last, 35 persons were in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Infectious

Diseases Hospital — two more within a 24-hour period; 118 are in institutional isolation, 1,988 are in home isolation and there were four persons in institutional quarantine.

All Guyanese are reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 emergency measures, which are in effect until September 30, 2021.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or need any additional information, kindly contact the COVID-19 Hotline 2311166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit us at www.health.gov.gy.

22

Families embrace vaccination drive

By Jared Liddell

AS efforts to immunise the country’s population against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic continue, entire households have started embracing the government’s vaccination drive, and this was evidenced by the turnout at a drive-thru vaccination site at the Guyana National Stadium, on Saturday.

The Sunday Chronicle visited the site and spoke with Jillian Hinds, a mother of two who turned out with her two sons, aged 14 and 15 years, to get vaccinated.

Hinds said she had long contemplated getting the vaccine but saw Saturday as the opportune moment, since her children were also able to benefit.

“We sat down this morning [Saturday] and we had a talk as a family and I asked

them how they felt about the vaccine and so on… they told me they are willing and then I told them well the stadium getting vaccine today, let’s go. So, we came out and I told them since they decided to take it I will take it today too.

“I know they have to get their education and they agreed to take the vaccine because they want to go to school and this is the only way that could happen,” Hinds said.

Having done her part to protect her family and herself, she urged other parents, who are contemplating getting their children vaccinated, to get vaccinated together so as to provide each other some level of comfort.

The government rolled out a strategic vaccination drive on Saturday, which saw both adults and children between the ages of 12 and

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 5, 2021

–– urge others to do their part in combatting COVID-19

18 years being able to receive a dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Children at the site on Saturday received their first dose of the American-manufactured Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, while adults received their first or second dose of one of three vaccines: the Russian-produced Sputnik V vaccine, the Chinese-made Sinopharm vaccine or the Oxford AstraZeneca Vaccine.

Naeem Baksh, who visited the vaccination site with his siblings, said that he believes it was a great opportunity to get vaccinated as a family.

He noted that the vaccination drive provides See page 24

Jillian Hinds and her two sons showing their COVID-19 vaccination forms while at the COVID-19 vaccination drive-thru site at the Guyana National Stadium, on Saturday

23

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 5, 2021

Persons with disabilities urged to register with Disability Commission … for a smooth, transparent rollout of $25,000 grant

IN rolling out the support measures announced recently for members of vulnerable groups, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is encouraging persons with disabilities to register with the National Commission on Disability (NDC) ahead of the disbursement period in October.

This is in the event that they have not already been captured in the NDC and

sons to access programmes and incentives that the ministry is rolling out that may be specific to them,” Minister Persaud has observed.

“This is just one initiative; the WIIN (Women’s Innovation and Investment Network) programme is another effective way of benefitting these groups.

So, once you are registering with us, we can directly contact you,” she explained.

“It will also guide our development of pro-

being asked to register Monday to Friday between the hours of 08:00hrs and 16:30hrs, and on Saturday from 09:00hrs to 12:30hrs.

Officers from the ministry will be stationed at all of the locations to facilitate a smooth process of registration.

Persons can also opt to register Online, by downloading the form from the ministry’s website and emailing it to: registration@mhsss.gov.gy.

“The filling out takes

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud has since commissioned a countrywide data collection exercise targeting vulnerable groups Public Assistance databases. Another related initiative currently being undertaken is the collection of data to capture groups served by the ministry to ensure better impact of service and support programmes. Subject Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud recently announced a countrywide data collection exercise to garner accurate and up-to-date figures of persons who are unemployed, living with a disability, or are single parents.

“The idea of data collection for the ministry is very crucial, because, once a person registers, it gives us a sense of the needs that exist, and allows those per-

grammes and policies in the future. Registering is something that people should be very diligent about,” Dr. Persaud added. While data collection has been going well at many locations, it has been found that some residents are confused about its purpose, thinking that they are turning up for the actual payment of the grant.

“This is not the payment process; this is an exercise the Ministry is conducting, so as to have data that will guide policy decisions towards the development of programmes that will benefit the most vulnerable,” Dr. Persaud clarified.

Eligible persons are

about five minutes,” Minister Persaud pointed out.

Persons are advised to register at the following locations: - Region One: Regional Admin. Office/Probation & Security Officer, Port Kaituma; Probation and Social Security Office, Mabaruma; Moruca Rural Extension Centre; and Baramita Probation and Social Services Office.

Region Two: Probation and Social Security Office, Anna Regina, Takuba Lodge; Charity/Urasura, Charity Pomeroon (NDC); Good Hope/ Pomona, Huis t Dieren, Essequibo Coast (NDC); and Phoenix Park, West Bank Demerara.

Region Three: Wakenaam, Sans Succi, Wakenaam (NDC); Leguan, Essequibo Coast (NDC); Tushen/Uitvlugt, Kastev, Meten-Meer-Zorg (NDC); and Toesvlugt/Patentia, Good Intent (NDC).

Region Four: Enmore NDC Office, Probation & social Service Office; Lusignan Community Centre Ground; and Cane Grove

NDC. Regions Five and Six: Mahaicony Probation and Social services Department (Hospital complex); Fort Wellington Probation and Social Services Department; and Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s offices at New Amsterdam, Whim and Skeldon.

Regions Seven, Eight, Nine and 10: Ministry’s Probation office, Bartica,

RDC building; Ministry’s Probation office, Mahdia; Probation Office, Lethem; Probation Office, CARICOM Insurance Building; and Kwakwani RDC office.

For more information, persons can call 226 6110/225-6545 or visit the ministry’s Facebook page.

The deadline for registration is September 30, 2021.

24

Families embrace ...

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 5, 2021

From page 22

parents with a chance to show their children that the vaccines are not anything to be afraid of.

“Well, I feel the vaccination drive is a very good initiative. We all agreed to get the vaccine because we felt like it was necessary… so we are happy that we could be here and we could get vaccinated with our sister so she would know that getting vaccinated isn’t anything that she should be afraid of or anything that would harm her because we are all taking

it together,” Baksh said.

It is his belief that everyone should get vaccinated after doing the necessary research and feeling comfortable about the step they would be taking.

Meanwhile, Julie Etwaroo, who took her 14-yearold grandson and her 12-year-old granddaughter to be vaccinated, said that she thinks that the government’s initiative is timely, especially considering the physical re-opening of schools on September 6, 2021, which

for children ages 12 to 18 years largely depends on the vaccination rollout.

In expressing her belief that all parents should take steps to get their children vaccinated, Etwaroo said: “They have to be vaccinated.

It’s better to be on the safe side.

We know the vaccine is going to protect them from this virus and they can be able to go to school because it’s very hard for them to stay away from school so long.”

Relatives of Naeem Baksh after receiving their does of the COVID-19 vaccines on Saturday

Naeem Baksh and his younger brother after getting vaccinated on Saturday

Julie Etwaroo filling out the vaccination forms for her 14-year-old grandson and her 12-year-old granddaughter at the COVID-19 vaccination drive-thru site, at the National Stadium on Saturday

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 5, 2021

Sharma’s ton turns tide of fourth Test against England INDIA batsman Rohit Sharma produced one of the crowning achievements of his career with a fine century that turned the tide of the fourth LV= Insurance Test against England on a trying third day at the Kia Oval.

Rohit capped his impressive efforts in the series with a superb 127, his first ever overseas ton, helping turn a first-innings deficit of 99 into a lead of 171 by the time bad light drew in.

India finished on 270 for three and are poised to make life extremely difficult for the hosts, with captain Virat Kohli ominously positioned to lead the charge on day four.

Ollie Robinson struck twice in the first over of the second new ball to see off Rohit and Cheteshwar Pujara (61), giving England some-

thing to cling to after managing a solitary breakthrough in more than two sessions.

Rohit is renowned as one of the greatest one-day batsmen in history but there was one notable blind-spot on his Test CV – with all seven of his centuries coming in home conditions.

The 34-year-old has always seemed too good a player, and too adaptable, for such an omission but his barren streak on the road had reached 23 matches and 44 innings prior to his efforts in London.

Every run would have felt like a dagger to Rory Burns, who had dropped Rohit with just four to his name on the second evening and did so again in the morning session on 31.

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He eventually fell to the first delivery of the second new ball, an underpowered short one from Robinson, but by then his stands of 83 alongside KL Rahul and 153 with Pujara flipped the game heavily in the tourists’ favour.

The morning session was an enjoyable tussle which India got the better of, turning their 56-run overnight deficit into a nine-run lead. England did their best with a softening ball and an unresponsive pitch but were frequently frustrated.

An lbw verdict went in Chris Woakes’ favour on the field only for DRS to disagree, while Moeen got

nowhere with a referral of his own against Rohit.

Even when Robinson did create a genuine opportunity by squaring Rohit up it came to nothing. The chance would have been a regulation take for third slip but, without one, Burns could only parry one-handed. It was England’s sixth drop of the game.

Anderson eventually gave something to show for the hard work, returning for a second spell and racing off in celebration after going past Rahul’s outside edge. Umpire Alex Wharf was unmoved and Rahul appeared to suggest any sound had been bat to pad, but a tell-tale spike on UltraEdge spoke in the bowler’s favour.

Rohit was careful and quiet before lunch but, after spending 145 deliveries over his half-century, he took just 59 more to convert as he made his move in a one-sided afternoon. He did much of his best work off Moeen Ali’s spin, slapping him uppishly through the off side before stooping into a couple of hard-hit sweeps.

He eased through the nineties with two scoring shots, whipping Anderson from outside off through the on-side then treating himself to a luxurious swing off Moeen to reach his ton with a steepling six.

England had stationed catchers in the deep for just such an occasion, but they could only watch as the ball sailed into the crowd.

Pujara had been a perfect foil, punishing Craig Over-

ton’s tendency to slip short or wide and even uppercutting Woakes over the cordon.

There was relief all round when Joe Root unwrapped the fresh Dukes and tossed it to Robinson, but nobody could have predicted what happened next. Nine times out of 10, Rohit would back himself to punish the slightly stiff loosener that came his way first up.

Instead, perhaps surprised

EL SALVADOR VS. HONDURAS After draws in their opening matches, Central American rivals El Salvador and Honduras meet for the 82nd

time on Sunday. The last time the teams met in an official match, Honduras rolled past El Salvador 4-0 in the 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup and it has been 28 years since the last time La Selecta topped Honduras in Concacaf WCQ. Yet, El Salvador manager Hugo Perez will believe he can turn the tide after a good defensive showing led by center back Eriq Zavaleta in a 0-0 draw against the U.S. Honduras also will come in with the confidence that it can get at least another road point, with Romell Quioto a possibility to lead the line after entering as a substitute in the 1-1 draw with Canada.

USA VS. CANADA As for Canada, they

A ricochet off the thigh guard, a loopy catch to third slip and an appeal to DRS followed to leave India 237 for three.

For the first time in a couple of hours the hum and chatter around the ground had turned into a roar but Kohli held his ground to reach 22not out in fading light alongside Ravindra Jadeja. (PA Sport)

SCOREBOARD INDIA 1st innings 191 England 1st innings Rory Burns b Jasprit Bumrah 5 Haseeb Hameed c Rishabh Pant b Jasprit Bumrah 0 Dawid Malan c Rohit Sharma b Umesh Yadav 31 Joe Root b Umesh Yadav 21 Craig Overton c Virat Kohli b Umesh Yadav 1 Ollie Pope b Shardul Thakur 81 Jonny Bairstow lbw Mohammed Siraj 37 Moeen Ali c Rohit Sharma b Ravindra Jadeja 35 Chris Woakes Run Out Jasprit Bumrah 50 Ollie Robinson b Ravindra Jadeja 5 James Anderson Not Out 1 Extras Total

1b 14lb 8nb 0pen 0w 23 (84.0 overs) 290 all out

Fall of Wickets : 1-5 Burns, 2-6 Hameed, 3-52 Root, 4-53 Overton, 5-62 Malan, 6-151 Bairstow, 7-222 Ali, 8-250 Pope, 9-255 Robinson, 10-290 Woakes Bowling: Umesh Yadav 19 - 2 - 76 - 3 (2nb), Jasprit Bumrah 21 - 6 - 67 - 2 (1nb), Shardul Thakur 15 - 2- 54 - 1 (1nb) Mohammed Siraj 12 - 4 - 42 - 1 (1nb), Ravindra Jadeja 17 - 1 - 36 - 2 ( 3nb).

Costa Rica, U.S. aiming... chail Antonio his Jamaica debut.

Panama will counter with a back line that was staunch despite the absence of Harold Cummings in the first match, with Andres Andrade and Fidel Escobar holding down the middle. Rolando Blackburn and Alfredo Stephens both had opportunities in the first match, but will hope to convert their chances on Sunday to extend a six-match undefeated streak against Jamaica in World Cup qualification matches.

by the lack of venom, he got underneath the ball and pulled it high to Woakes at fine-leg. After 256 balls at the crease, it was a gift.

Rohit had batted alongside Pujara for 44 overs and the pair were quickly reunited in the pavilion. Robinson’s final delivery of the over hit the pitch with a bit more purpose, nipped in off the seam and clipped the inside edge of Pujara’s bat.

INDIA 2nd innings o/n 43-0 Rohit Sharma c Chris Woakes b Ollie Robinson 127 Lokesh Rahul c Jonny Bairstow b James Anderson 46 Cheteshwar Pujara c Moeen Ali b Ollie Robinson 61 Virat Kohli Not Out 22 Ravindra Jadeja Not Out 9 Extras Total

(92.0 overs) 270-3

Fall of Wickets : 1-83 Rahul, 2-236 Sharma, 3-237 Pujara To Bat : Rahane, Pant, Thakur, Yadav, Bumrah, Siraj Bowling: James Anderson Ollie Robinson Chris Woakes Craig Overton Moeen Ali

23 21 19 10 15 -

8 - 49 4 - 67 5 - 43 0 - 38 0 - 63 -

1, 2 (1nb), - 0 (1nb), 0, 0.

Hero

(From page 32)

travel to Nashville, Tennessee, to take on the United States. Canada got a goal from the spot from Cyle Larin in the match against Honduras, but otherwise struggled to break through Los Catrachos’ defense.

The U.S. also will aim to have more attacking punch than it did in its first match. Christian Pulisic may return after not traveling to El Salvador, and the U.S. will also enjoy playing in front of a supportive crowd at Nissan Field.

It’s the first time the North American squads will meet in qualification since the 1998 cycle when the U.S. topped Canada 3-0 in both matches.

0b 3lb 2nb 0pen 0w 5

South Africa Racing Tips Scottsville 08:15 hrs Lucky Miss 08:50 hrs Hasta Manana 09:25 hrs Tempting Fate 10:00 hrs Hampton Court 10:40 hrs Lady Catherine English Racing Tips York 09:10 hrs Sophie's Star 09:40 hrs Pagan 10:45 hrs Mistrix 11:20 hrs Alpine Stroll 11:50 hrs Moktasaab 12:20 hrs Emaraty

Perth 08:45 hrs Moneykenny 09:55 hrs Share Him Up 10:55 hrs Guido Reni 11:30 hrs Island Nation Fontwell 09:00 hrs Vorashann 09:30 hrs Bigbadmattie 10:05 hrs Goldencard 10:35 hrs Gibraltarian French Racing Parislongchamp 08:33 hrs Saiydabad 09:15 hrs Go To Hollywood 09:48 hrs Baaeed 10:30 he's Wally

32

Afghanistan likely to host Australia and West Indies for T20I tri-series in October ...ACB also confirmed the team will play a one-off Test against Australia on November 27

The tri-series is likely to take place in Qatar or the UAE, according to ACB Abu Dhabi Cricket.

Afghanistan are likely to host Australia and West Indies for a T20I tri-series in the first week of October before the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to run from October 17 to November 14 in UAE and Oman.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has also confirmed that the side's first-ever Test against Australia - a one-off match - on November 27 at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart will go ahead as scheduled.

Since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, there's been uncertainty around the country's involvement with cricket. But ACB CEO Hamid Shinwari was positive about the resumption of cricket in the country as well as future tours . The board even hosted a friendly T20 game which was played between two Afghan teams at the Kabul International Stadium on Friday.

The tri-series, which will be confirmed once the

venue availability is clear, is likely to take place in Qatar or the UAE, according to Shinwari.

The one-off Test was originally slated for December 2020, but was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This will be Afghanistan's seventh Test since they gained the Full Member status in 2017.

"Our team will be travelling abroad to play the tri-series hopefully, and that we could accommodate two important nations Australia and the West Indies," Shinwari told ESPNcricinfo.

"We are planning to conduct this series in one of the Arab countries, maybe in Qatar or the UAE. It still hasn't been decided. The series is confirmed given that a venue is available.

"We have support for cricket from the management. After the T20 World Cup, we are going to Australia to play a one-off Test match. Talks with Cricket Australia are in the pipeline.

After the World Cup, the

team will be heading there."

If it goes ahead as planned, the tri-series is likely to run alongside IPL 2021, which is scheduled from September 19 to October 15 in the UAE. As a result, a number of big names from all three sides could be missing from the tri-series.

Earlier, Afghanistan's three-match ODI series against Pakistan, which was supposed to begin on September 3, was postponed indefinitely. Talks between the two boards concluded that logistical challenges were making it tough for the Afghanistan contingent to travel to Sri Lanka, while the ongoing political situation in Afghanistan was also considered. The PCB also tweeted that both boards will try to reschedule the series for 2022.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan's Under-19 team's scheduled tour of Bangladesh, due to start later this month in Sylhet, is also set to go ahead.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 5, 2021

Bangladesh beat New Zealand despite Latham heroics DHAKA, Bangladesh (AFP) — Tom Latham's unbeaten 65 just failed to steal victory from Bangladesh who won the second Twenty20 against New Zealand yesterday by four runs to go 2-0 up in their five match series.

Bangladesh made 141 for six from their 20 overs with Mohammad Naim making 39 and Captain Mahmudullah Riyad an unbeaten 37.

New Zealand's chase only came alive in the final overs and with skipper Latham at the helm they came agonisingly close after needing 20 from the final nervy six balls off Mustafizur Rahman.

Mustafizur gave away seven extras among 15 runs conceded but New Zealand ended on 137 for five.

Bangladesh spinners again dominated on the slow wicket with Shakib Al Hasan and Mahedi Hasan finishing on two for 12 and

two for 29, respectively.

Shakib ended a 43 run second-wicket stand between Latham and Will Young to get within one wicket of joining Sri Lanka's Lasith Malinga as the leading wicket-taker in Twenty20 Internationals.

The Bangladesh all-rounder now has 106 wickets in the shortest format.

Latham, who survived a stumping on 54, put Bangladesh under pressure with his solid batting.

New Zealand, hammered by seven wickets in the opening game, needed six off the last ball for victory but Latham managed only a single.

“It was a great game to take it down to the last over,” said the New Zealand captain.

“I thought we learned from the last game and to take it down to the last over with a chance of winning

was outstanding.”

Mahmudullah said he had confidence in Mustafizur to handle the final over.

“Mustafizur held his nerve well and we went really close,” he said. “It was unusual, but I had quite a bit of confidence in Mustafizur.”

Naim and Liton Das made 59 runs in Bangladesh's opening stand after Mahmudullah won the toss and elected to bat.

Liton, who was dropped before he had scored by Colin de Grandhomme off Cole McConchie, went on the punish New Zealand by making 33 off 29 balls.

Rachin Ravindra (3-22) dismissed Liton in the 10th over and then had Mushfiqur Rahim out for a duck in the next ball.

Mahmudullah's 37 from 32 balls guided his side to a challenging score.

The third match in the series is today.

Costa Rica, U.S. aiming for home wins as World Cup qualifiers continue from CONCACAF region MIAMI.- Seven of eight teams hoping to clinch a 2022 FIFA World Cup berth from the CONCACAF region are looking for their first win today after a tight opening day of the Final Round of qualification in which there were three draws and a single win by one goal.

COSTA RICA VS. MEXICO Mexico is sitting atop the table after a late goal from Henry Martin that gave Tata Martino’s squad all three points against Jamaica with a 2-1 victory.

Now, Mexico travels to Costa Rica and does so without Martino, who is staying in Mexico to attend to a personal health matter.

Costa Rica fought for a point in Panama, with goalkeeper Keylor Navas keeping a clean sheet in the 0-0 draw.

While Mexico owns the historical series, with 31 wins and only six losses, Costa Rica will hope to ride the energy of the home crowd to a result like the 1-1 draw they earned on the way to

FLASHBACK: Action from the last game between the United States and Canada on July 18, 2021 at Children's Mercy Pak in Kansas City, Kansas.

Russia 2018, or the 2-1 victory over Mexico in the 2014 cycle. Both teams are hoping for some reinforcements, with Costa Rica forward Joel Campbell working to recover from a knock, while late arrival to Mexico camp Jesus “Tecatito” Corona should be available on the wing for Mexico assistant Jorge Theiler.

JAMAICA VS. PANAMA Jamaica was the only team to taste defeat in the

opening round, but the Reggae Boyz also will be bolstered, and not just because they’re returning home to Kingston to face Panama.

Jamaica will be able to call on star players like Bobby Decordova-Reid, Leon Bailey and Daniel Johnson, all of whom were unable to travel to Mexico, while Head Coach Theodore Whitmore also could hand West Ham United’s all-time Premier League leading scorer Mi(Turn to page 31)

33

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 5, 2021

Osaka to take another Oscar de la Hoya break from tennis after comeback fight off …hospitalsed with Covid-19 US Open exit NAOMI Osaka says she will take another break from tennis after her US Open title defence ended in the third round.

The world number three lost 5-7 7-6 (7-2) 6-4 to 18-year-old Leylah Fernandez.

Osaka withdrew from this year's French Open after revealing she has struggled with her mental health since first becoming a Grand Slam champion in 2018.

The 23-year-old also missed Wimbledon before returning to the sport at the Tokyo Olympics, where she lit the flame at the opening ceremony.

"I feel like I'm kind of at this point where I'm trying to figure out what I want to do," Osaka said in a postmatch news conference, in which she became increasingly tearful.

"I honestly don't know when I'm going to play my next tennis match. I think I'm going to take a break from playing for a while.

Naomi Osaka is a two-time US Open champion

"I feel like for me recently, when I win I don't feel happy. I feel more like a relief. And then when I lose, I feel very sad. I don't think that's normal."

Osaka was on course for a straight-sets victory when she broke Fernandez's serve for a 6-5 second set lead.

But a string of forehand errors cost her her serve and the ensuing tiebreak, during which she uncharacteristically threw her racquet on the floor.

"I'm really sorry about

that," she said later.

"I'm not really sure why.

Normally I feel like I like challenges. But recently I feel very anxious when things don't go my way, and I feel like you can feel that. I was kind of like a little kid."

Osaka is the first woman in the top 20 to have lost a match at this year's US Open.

Fernandez, who turns 19 on Monday, will now face the 2016 champion Angelique Kerber for a place in the quarter-finals.

(BBC Sport)

FORMER six-weight world champion Oscar de la Hoya has withdrawn from his comeback fight against Vitor Belfort after being hospitalised with Covid-19.

The 48-year-old was due to fight the former UFC champion in Los Angeles on 11 September, 13 years after retiring.

He posted a video from his hospital bed on Friday to confirm the news.

"What are the chances of me getting Covid? I've been taking care of myself and this really, really kicked my ass," he said.

De la Hoya also said he was fully vaccinated against Covid-19 before contracting the virus.

The American announced his comeback in March 2021,, and the fight against Belfort would have been his first since a loss to Manny Pacquiao in 2008.

Oscar De la Hoya was due to fight Vitor Belfort in Los Angeles next weekend, 13 years after retiring.

The Hall of Fame boxer thanked his fans for their "tremendous" support as he worked towards his comeback and said that he expects to return to the ring "before the year is up".

Former world heavy-

weight champion Evander Holyfield, 58, is reported to be replacing De la Hoya in the fight, although it remains unclear whether the contest will take place in Los Angeles or be moved to Florida. (BBC Sport)

Malan ton, Shamsi fifer help Proteas level ODI series (AFP)-Opening batsman Janneman Malan hit 121 to set up a comfortable 67-run series-levelling win for South Africa in the rain-hit one-day international against Sri Lanka on Saturday.

South Africa scored 283-6 in 47 overs of the reduced match with opening batsman Malan scoring his third ODI ton after the tourists elected to bat first in Colombo.

Sri Lanka were bowled out 197 in 36.4 overs after a DLS revised target of 265 from 41 overs following a second rain interruption.

Left-arm wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi took his first ever five-wicket haul in ODIs to flatten the Sri Lankan batting as South Africa levelled the threematch series at 1-1.

Keshav Maharaj led the side to the comeback victory after they lost the opener and regular skipper Temba

Bavuma, who was ruled out of the limited-overs series with a broken thumb.

Malan, though, remained the hero after he battled cramps in his 135ball knock laced with nine fours and one six.

He built partnerships including a second-wicket stand of 96 with Reeza Hendricks, who made 51, after a 90-minute delayed start to the game.

Malan and Hendricks, who was one of the three changes in South Africa's team for this match, mixed the right dose of caution and aggression and hit seven boundaries between them.

Hendricks raised his third ODI fifty before being bowled by off-spinner Dhananjaya de Silva.

Malan reached his ton in the 43rd over as he put on an attacking partnership of 86 off 54 balls with Heinrich Klaasen to take

the attack to the opposition bowlers.

Pace bowler Dushmantha Chameera broke the stand to send back Klaasen, for 43 off 27 balls, trudging back to the pavilion and got Malan lbw on the next delivery.

Sri Lanka's reply was hit by three early wickets including two in one over by pace bowler Kagiso Rabada, who sent back Avishka Fernando for eight and Bhanuka Rajapaksa for nought.

Charith Asalanka tried to make Sri Lanka fight back with his 77 and two partnerships including a 64run fifth-wicket stand with skipper Dasun Shanaka, who made 30.

Shamsi took down both the batsmen and innings folded soon after a quickfire 36 from Chamika Karunaratne.

The third and deciding ODI is on Tuesday at the same venue.

South Africa’s Tabraiz Shamsi ® celebrates after the dismissal of Sri Lanka’s Akila Dananjaya (L) during the second one-day international (ODI) cricket match between Sri Lanka and South Africa.

34

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 5, 2021

Ninvalle promises continued support for Powerlifting Federation SECRETARY of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF), Roger Rogers, led a three-member delegation that visited Director of Sports, Steve Ninvalle, on Thursday last at his Middle Street Office.

Accompanying Rogers were GAPLF vice-president, Andrew Austin and organising secretary/Public Relations Officer, Mark Seymour.

The Federation’s delegation briefed Ninvalle on their recent successful sojourn at the 18th Annual NAPF/ FESUPO Pan-American Regional Powerlifting Championships which were held in Orlando, Florida. Guyana copped a total of eight medals-- six Gold and two Silver.

The Federation plans for the immediate and near future were also shared with Ninvalle who congratulated the Federation on behalf of Minister of Sports, Charles Ramson Jr. and the Government of Guyana.

“I would like to compliment the GAPLF on your recent successes for this nation. Despite the challenges we are facing as a result of

GAPLF secretary, Roger Rogers, presents the Director of Sports, Steve Ninvalle with one of the official jerseys.

COVID-19, you and your athletes have excelled and made yourselves and this nation proud.

“Your athletes did not only medal but they broke records, too, apart from achieving personal bests which is remarkable. You have certainly displayed real discipline and commitment, and for that I commend you.”

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Ninvalle assured the Federation of the NSC’s continued support for the sport.

“You have already felt the real support of the Ministry as we backed you and your athletes on your recent assignment. We will continue to be on the platform with you to ensure that you build on these successes and our athletes grow from strength to strength. We would also like to [see] your plans for the sport and work along with you to execute those plans successfully.”

Rogers comments expressed the GAPLF’s gratitude on behalf of President Gordon Spencer, who was unavoidably absent. He said the meeting was extremely successful and thanked Ninvalle and Minister Ramson for their support.

“The GAPLF was pleased to be able to share

its strategic outlook with Mr. Ninvalle and were we even more elated that our outlook accords with the direction of the NSC and by extension the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

The GAPLF intends to make the best of this engagement and will work assiduously to strengthen the partnership for the benefit of the sport. We would also like to assure the NSC, Ministry and affiliates of the Federation that were are committed towards working to make powerlifting stronger and more successful for the benefit of all inclusive of our athletes and fans.”

Rogers also took the opportunity to present Ninvalle with one of the official jerseys of the 18th Annual NAPF/FESUPO Pan-American Regional Powerlifting Championships.

Bethell fifty condemns Windies Under-19s to heavy thrashing

Opener Anderson Amurdan top-scored for West Indies U19s.

Barbados-born Jacob Bethell hit 69 off 73 balls for England

BECKENHAM, England, (CMC) – Barbados-born Jacob Bethell struck a half-century to aid in a crushing 166-run defeat of West Indies Under-19s as England Under-19s cantered to a comfortable win in the opening Youth OneDay International here Saturday.

Opting to bowl first at Kent County Ground, the visitors failed to contain England U19s who piled up 289 for nine off their 50 overs, with the left-handed Bethell hitting 69 off 73 deliveries.

James Rew chipped in with 59 and Alex Horton, 53, while Fateh Singh produced a cameo 19-ball 27 down the order.

Sixteen-year-old fast bowler Isai Thorne finished with three for 51 while fellow seamers Andel Gordon (2-45) and McKenny Clarke (2-58) picked up two wickets apiece.

In reply, the Caribbean side crumbled meekly for 123 in the 30th over, undermined by off-spinner Tom Prest who snatched five for 18 in a devastating six-over spell.

Leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed supported with three for 22 as West Indies U19s declined from 90 for two in

the 18th over, losing their last eight wickets for a mere 33 runs.

Anderson Amurdan topscored for the visitors with 33 off 47 deliveries while opening partner Matthew Nandu weighed in with 21 but no other batsman passed 20.

Bethell hit eight fours in a 41-run opening stand with Prest (14) before putting on a further 87 for the third with Rew who faced 66 balls and struck eight fours.

West Indies U19s then enjoyed an excellent period when they snared five wickets for 55 runs to send the hosts tumbling to 204 for seven in the 40th over.

However, Horton anchored the lower order, stroking four fours and a six in a 52-run, eighth wicket stand with Fateh Singh and a 29run, ninth wicket partnership with Sonny Baker (12 not out).

Amurdan then gave West Indies U19s a decent start, striking five fours as he put on 41 for the first wicket with Nandu and 30 for the second wicket with Teddy Bishop (15).

Amurdan’s demise in the 18th, bowled by Rehan Ahmed, signalled the end of the visitors’ resistance.

35

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 5, 2021

Superb du Plessis century ends Patriots unbeaten run BASSETERRE, St Kitts, (CMC) – A stunning Faf du Plessis century brought St Kitts and Nevis Patriots unbeaten run to an end as St Lucia Kings stormed to an emphatic 100-run victory in the opening match of the doubleheader here Saturday.

Under pressure following scores of 0, 10, 14 and 2, the South African struck form with an unbeaten 120 off 60 deliveries – his first hundred in T20 franchise cricket – to propel Kings to 224 for two off their 20 overs.

The right-hander slammed 13 fours and five sixes and featured in a superb 124-run, unbroken third wicket stand with Roston Chase who followed up his Man-of-the-Match 85 in the last game with an unbeaten 64 off 31 deliveries.

In reply, Patriots were bundled out for 124 in the 17th over, with left-handed opener Evin Lewis top-scoring with 73 off 42 deliveries.

They were 82 for two nearing the half-way stage but lost their last seven wickets for just 42 runs with captain Dwayne Bravo unable to bat due to groin strain which had earlier prevented him from completing a fourth over.

Seamers Keemo Paul (3-23) and Alzarri Joseph (3-27) finished with three wickets apiece.

The victory was the second on the trot for Kings and pushed them up to second on six points, four points adrift of Patriots at the top.

Sent in, Kings got a whirlwind start from captain du Plessis and

vice-captain Andre Fletcher, the pair posting 76 off 44 balls to put Patriots on the defensive.

Fletcher hit a four and a six in 23 off 19 before falling in the eighth over but du Plessis shone with Chase, who punched seven fours and three sixes, as Kings gathered 71 off the last five overs.

Du Plessis marched to his fifty off 25 balls in the seventh over and reached three figures in the 16th over, with a couple to deep mid-wicket of leg-spinner Fawad Ahmed.

“It was a brilliant innings knowing that he started badly in the tournament,” said Fletcher.

“He was a bit under pressure and also he wasn’t feeling that well but to know that he came out and fought for the team, trust

NSC offering psychology, physiotherapy services to athletes and federations THE National Sports Commission (NSC) will embark on bringing about a structured approach to providing physiotherapy and psychological services to athletes and federations.

This is according to Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle.

Ninvalle shared, yesterday, that in an effort to minimize injuries and bolster the psyche of local athletes, the expertise of former National swimmer and Sports Psychologist, Noelle Smith and Physiotherapist, Eliecer Ducasse Ramiez of Cuba will be made available to athletes and federations.

The pair has been employed at the NSC for the past three years, but according to Ninvalle, their knowledge and expertise have not been maximised to full potential because of poor supervision.

That is about to change.

“We have two young professionals who are eager

to work and we will make sure that they now ply their trade accross the length and breadth of our 83,000 square miles, said Ninvalle.

“While they were employed by the NSC, there was not a structured approach with how they dealt with athletes and associations. As a matter of a fact, some of these associations were not even aware that these services were available."

Smith was recently dispatched to work with sportsmen and women in Region 10.

He added “So in bringing structure to it, we will maximize their expertise and the athletes and the federations will benefit from that.”

Smith and Ramiez will start to work with the twelve core sport disciplines: Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Volleyball, Swimming, Squash, Hockey, Rugby, Lawn tennis, Table tennis, Cricket and Football.

All other disciplines will

Sports Psychologist Noelle Smith

be worked with also.

Ninvalle then added that psychology and physiotherapy are fundamentals for athletes around the world “so, more or less Guyana is now playing catch up.”

He concluded by stating: “We are making it known that we now have a structured approach open to each and every sports discipline in Guyana.”

South African Faf du Plessis drives through the off-side during his superb unbeaten century on Saturday.

(Photo courtesy CPL Media)

me we couldn’t ask for anything better.”

He added: “With 224, any team going out to field would be very confident but at the same time we know how dangerous the St Kitts Patriots batting lineup is, and it was just for us to go out and execute.

“Our bowlers bowled very well and I just want to praise them for that.”

Joseph handed Kings a great start by knocking over Devon Thomas (2) and veteran Chris Gayle (14) in successive overs to reduce the innings to 22 for two in the third over.

Lewis then belted five fours and half-dozen sixes to dominate a 60-run, third wicket stand with Ravi Bopara (4) but once the latter perished at the start of the 10th over, the run chase fell apart.

Windies Women untidy but square T20 series against South Africa NORTH SOUND, Antigua, (CMC) – A clatter of late wickets took the gloss off a comfortable victory as West Indies Women beat South Africa Women by five wickets to level their three-match series here Saturday.

Cruising on 62 for one in the eighth over in pursuit of a modest target of 81 at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium, the hosts lost four wickets for 16 runs off 28 balls towards the end, before finally getting over the line in the 12th over.

Opener Deandra Dottin top-scored with 31 off 21 deliveries while Kyshona Knight hit 26 off 27 balls, the pair laying the platform for their side’s victory in an attractive second stand of 53.

Off-spinner Karishma Ramharack had earlier claimed three for eight and fast bowler Aaliyah Alleyne, two for 16, as the Proteas were restricted to 80 for nine off their 20 overs.

Choosing to bat first, they got 23 from Sune Luus but she was the only one of the top six to pass 20 as the

innings never recovered after slumping to 12 for four in the third over.

Luus struck a four and a six off 37 deliveries and held the innings together by adding 26 for the fifth wicket with Tazmin Brits (16), and a further 22 for the sixth wicket with Chloe Tryon (9).

Ramharack then snatched three of the four wickets to fall in a miserly three-over spell to ensure there was no late fightback.

In reply, West Indies Women lost Hayley Matthews for seven in the second over, driving seamer Ayabonga Khaka low to Lizelle Lee at point with nine runs on the board before Dottin and Kyshona Knight then erased any doubt over the result.

Dottin lashed three fours and a six while Kyshona counted four fours, the pair appearing poised to take West Indies over the line.

But tragedy struck in the eighth over when Kyshona drove leg-spinner and captain Dane van Niekerk (2-8) to Lee at backward point and hesitated over a single.

Dottin eventually took off but found herself well short of her ground at the striker’s end.

Left-hander Kyshona followed in the tenth over, top-edging a sweep off van Niekerk to be caught by wicketkeeper Trisha Chetty running around to leg slip.

And with three runs added at 76 for four in the next over, Chedean Nation (8 not out) changed her mind over a quick single to leave Kycia Knight stranded mid-pitch without scoring.

Britney Cooper also fell without scoring in the 12th when she hit across a van Niekerk leg break and edged a sharp catch to Lee at first slip before Nation hit the winning runs two balls later in the same over to calm the home side’s nerves.

The first game was rained off as a no-result last Tuesday while West Indies lost the second by 50 runs two days later.

The two teams will now face each other in a fivematch one-day series which bowls off next Tuesday at Coolidge Cricket Ground.

Sharma’s ton turns tide of fourth Test against England PAGE

Rohit Sharma competed his 8th Test century with a lofted six off spinner Moeen Ali. (Getty Images)

31

Eagles get campaign back on track in DVA League

After back-to-back losses, Eagles are back on the winning end

EAGLES Volleyball Club rebounded from back-to-back losses as they produced a dominant performance to defeat Young Achievers on Friday evening last as the action continued in the Demerara Volleyball Association (DVA) League at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Eagles came out soaring in the first set in the game to defeat Young Achievers 25-16 and despite Achievers taking an early six-point lead in the second, Eagles still battled hard to win 27-17.

They closed out the clean sweep of sets with a 25-18 victory and more important, added five points to their tally

in the League.

Quacy Matheson (12 points), Adriel Moore (ten points), and Kristoff Shepperd (eight points) did the damage for Eagles.

The action continues on Tuesday, with Eagles battling Castrol Strikers from 19:00hrs.

Superb du Plessis century 35 ends Patriots unbeaten run PAGE

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Hemraj masterclass century sends Royals to fifth defeat

Chandrapaul Hemraj made a thunderous unbeaten 105 from 56 balls (Photo: CPL via Getty Images)

BASSETERRE, St Kitts, (CMC) – Left-handed opener Chandrapaul Hemraj carved out a splendid maiden Twenty20 hundred as Guyana Amazon Warriors condemned Barbados Royals to their fifth defeat in six matches, with a dominant nine-wicket victory here yesterday.

Asked to chase an insufficient 131 on a belter at Warner Park, Amazon Warriors raced to their target with 34 balls to spare with the 28-year-old Hemraj blasting an unbeaten 105 off 56 balls.

He reached his landmark off the final ball of the run chase when he stylishly lifted 20-year-old seamer Nyeem Young over point for his fifth six, to add to his 14 fours.

Hemraj marched to his fifty in the sixth over off 25 balls by slashing a full toss from fast bowler Oshane Thomas behind point for four, before reaching his second fifty off 31 deliveries.

“It’s unbelievable. I’ve been getting some starts for the tournament and I’m just happy to carry on in this game,” said a breathless Hemraj.

“I played some cricket coming into this tournament. I must thank my trainer for working me for the last three, four weeks before coming into the tournament.

“I definitely feel more confident. I feel much stronger and much fitter and I’ve got the endurance to bat longer.”

Royals’ effort of 130 all out off their 20 overs after choosing to bat first never looked enough.

Azam Khan top-scored with 28, Johnson Charles got 23 and Shai Hope and Raymon Reifer, 22 apiece, but all failed to build on their starts.

Leg-spinner Imran Tahir (3-34) wiped out the top order to leave the innings tottering on 28 for three in the fifth over and though Hope and Reifer put on 34 for fourth wicket, Royals lost their last seven wickets for 68 runs.

“It’s tough to explain. We just never really got momentum. We’ve been struggling all tournament with the bat,” said a perplexed Royals skipper Jason Holder, who scored nine from 14 balls and went wicket-less from two overs which leaked 24 runs.

“When we’ve lost games we’ve really struggled with the bat and we’ve asked our bowlers to come out and put up their hands.

“Trying to defend 120, 130 is always going to be a tough task so we’ve just got to find a way to get some runs on the board.”

Hemraj quickly set the tone for the chase, putting on 103 for the first wicket with out-of-form Brandon King who made 19 from 17 balls with two fours.

By the time King was hit plumb in front by Young in the 11th over, Amazon Warriors were comfortably en route to victory and Hemraj added a further 33 with Shoaib Malik (8 not out) to take them over the line.

Amazon Warriors lie third on six points while Royals are rooted to the bottom of the standings on two points.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021