Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_23_05_2020

SATURDAY 23rd May, 2020

'

‘Here's the proof’

No.106008

SEE STORY ON PAGE 09

…coalition submits, to GECOM, list of electors who were overseas but recorded as voted …to make further submissions on ‘dead voters’, other anomalies

Guyana lifts second million -barrel of oil --- payment expected early June

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Gov’t approves return of 300 03 stranded Guyanese PAGE

…NCTF insists they must be COVID-19 free

‘Machoness does not make you immune’ 03 PAGE

Chart provided by APNU+AFC

----Authorities warn that men continue to account for majority of COVID-19 cases

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

‘Evidence points to clear fraud, rigging by PPP’ …APNU+AFC charges as GECOM counts 87 boxes on Friday

By Gabriella Chapman OF the 964 ballot boxes processed thus far in the national recount, the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) has been raising several anomalies in the various workstations and has charged that the March 2, elections were not credible.

On Friday, a total of 87 boxes were processed, and the total tabulated have increased to 928 and 927 for General and Regional elections, respectively. Amidst the increased pace of the process, the coalition continues to note anomalies at every station.

In fact, APNU+AFC agent, Aubrey Norton, said that their party has now taken the position, that these issues raised can no longer be termed ‘anomalies’, but rather, serve as clear evidence of fraud and rigging of the elections. He said that based on their evidence and what was witnessed in the recount centre, the numbers suggest that out of the 600+ boxes counted thus far, many illegalities were noted.

From what his party has gathered, he said many people voted without a certificate of employment. “If you’re voting from a polling station away from where you are registered, you are given a

certificate of employment.

It means if you allow people to vote with no certificate of employment, you become involved in fraud and illegality.

These are figures for those who voted without the certificate: Region One - 59 people voted without certificate of employment, Region Two 110, Region Three - five, Region Four - 69, Region Five - seven, Region Six - none as yet because that has now started. But that gives you a total of 250 persons, who have voted under the claim of certificate of employment, but didn’t provide any certificate,” Norton told the media.

He also gave figures for the proof of dead and migrated people that they would have found that voted, thus far. “The dead in the five regions so far, we have seen 37, and the death certificates are emerging for them, we’re doing the work. People who are out of the jurisdiction - Region One - 40, Region Two - 229, Region Three - 408, Region Four - 310, Region Five – 61. That is 1,048 who are out of the jurisdiction and voted just in this small catchment area.

Then, if you don’t have an ID card, you are allowed to vote, but to vote, you must have an oath of identity. A number of people have voted without ID card and this is what we have been able to catch without

oaths of identity. Region One

(PPP), chose those intermixing centres and worked

APNU+AFC Agent, Aubrey Norton

- 33, Region Two - seven, Region Three - 25, Region Four - 59, Region Five - 19.

What this is illustrating is that the process teams with irregularities," Norton said.

Pointing further to the issue of unstamped ballots. He said that there is a clear correlation between unstamped ballots and the coalition’s strongholds. “We’ve seen wherever there was intermixing for the Joint Services, a large amount of ballots have not been stamped. Let us understand that Joint Services is over 8,000 votes. And I believe strategically, the People’s Progressive Party

with the POs they control to ensure that those ballots weren’t stamped. These are no longer anomalies, this is clear evidence of fraud and rigging… I want to point out that the People’s Progressive Party has developed a strategy of focusing on Region Four and Mingo. They’re saying Mingo rigged. But the evidence is suggesting that in Regions One, Two, Three, Four and Five, there was rigging. What they are seeking to do is to create one narrative that one man rigged. The tactic really is to shift away the focus from what happened in the other regions,” he said.

Exposing other strategies of the opposition, Norton said that the PPP is attempting to redo what they did in March, to have the public believe that they won, and accuse the coalition of rigging.

“At this stage, what they are seeking to do is to take the results that come early,

and suggesting that they are winning, that they’re in front. All the elections that I know in Guyana since this Regional system is in place, when the results are coming, because the PPP generally dominates in Regions One, Two, Three, Five, Six and Nine, and the APNU+AFC in [Regions] Four, Seven, Eight and 10, it means logically, that our bulk of votes will come towards the end. And I want to urge Guyanese not to be carried away by this, because it could be a ploy to suggest and do like they did the last time, very early to say they won,” Norton cautioned.

In fact, he said this can very well be seen as a repeat of history, since in 1997 elections, while he was the General Secretary of the People’s National Congress (PNC), they had quite similar occurrences. Alluding further that this recount has to be seen more than just one that is numerical, but rather, one that tests credibility.

“In 1997 they did the same thing, even before Region Four was concluded, they said they won and we had an audit. That audit had shown that 70,000 votes weren’t accounted for. And because of that history you have to be very very careful. I also want to point out that in box 5083 at Bushlot, the OLE had 199 persons, the PPP got 199 votes, the APNU got four. We have identified 25 people that would have migrated. That can’t be the results… This count is more than numerical, it is about credibility of the elections. And in our view, it can’t be credible if it is filled with illegalities, if it is filled with fraud. And

so to talk about this being a numbers thing, yes there are numbers to be counted, but there are also numbers to be deducted for illegalities,” Norton asserted.

Even though his party has been convinced that the illegalities allegedly perpetuated by the PPP has tampered with the credibility of the elections, he said that it is the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) who has the final say in determining whether it is credible or questionable. However, given that the Chair of GECOM, Justice Claudette Singh, has said that ‘he who asserts must prove’, Norton said that his party is ready and equipped to prove their numerous claims when the time comes. “The thing to do is not to run ahead of the process, let the process take its course. I understand the legal concept and when the time comes to provide proof that will be done. But this is like a court. We expect a time will come when we have to produce the evidence that exist, then allow GECOM to determine what the decision is,” he said.

Meanwhile, PPP/C agent, Anil Nandlall, is of the view that the gazetted order for this recount doesn’t provide for a period to produce any evidence.

In fact, he claims that these issues being raised by the APNU+AFC are fallacious.

But in the same breath, has not produced any evidence to discredit the claims of the coalition. Rambling for 30 minutes, throwing below the belt jabs at the APNU+AFC, Nandlall told the media that the narrative being fed by the party is one that is false.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Gov’t approves return of 300 stranded Guyanese

…NCTF insists they must be COVID-19 free THE National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) has approved the controlled re-entry of approximately 300 Guyanese stranded overseas who will return to the country after testing negative for COVID-19.

In a release on Friday, the Task Force said that these Guyanese will return home from countries such as Trinidad and Tobago and the United States in cities such as New York, New Jersey and Florida.

Those qualifying for re-entry have made requests and are registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via Guyanese Embassies, High Commissions and Honourary Consuls.

The decision of the Task Force was made at a special meeting where it was strictly noted that: “…no person who tests positive for COVID-19 will be permitted entry into Guyana and that ALL arriving passengers must undergo the PCR tests and submit the results (which must be in En-

A view of the terminal and part of the runway at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri

glish) at least 48 hours prior to their arrival in Guyana.”

Approval will only be applicable to Guyanese nationals resident in Guyana who are stranded overseas and who registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

as at Thursday, May 21, 2020.

It is also only applicable to Guyanese in possession of a valid Guyanese passport although the Immigration Department of Guyana will accept any passenger whose

Guyanese passport expired within six months prior to arrival.

Meanwhile, the applicants or their employers must cover all costs for their return via air only.

“Persons who qualify to

return to Guyana under this approval are asked to make urgent contact with their nearest Guyanese diplomatic mission and complete the necessary paperwork and submit the relevant documents and information,” the release stated.

“The NCTF empathises with Guyanese who have been stranded overseas for several weeks and some of whom have been sheltering in challenging circumstances.

The NCTF sincerely thanks Guyanese residents overseas and other persons who have provided shelter and accommodation for these persons.

The NCTF anticipates that these persons will return to Guyana over the course of the next two weeks.”

The Task Force stated that it is eager to ensure that every stranded Guyanese returns home within the shortest possible time while ensuring that the health and safety of Guyanese in Guyana are maintained and not compromised in any way.

It reaffirmed that, apart from these provisions, Guyana’s airspace remains closed

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and flight applications for each arriving flight related to this approval must be submitted, by the airline or operator, to the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) for approval.

These new approvals come in addition to ones previously made for the controlled re-entry of over 100 Guyanese from countries such as Trinidad and Tobago, St. Vincent, St. Maarten and Cuba.

These previous approvals were made on May 18 by the NCTF and are inclusive of 70 Guyanese cruise ship workers attached to Royal Caribbean; 19 Guyanese students of the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad; 10 Guyanese in St Maarten; four Guyanese in St. Vincent to return via SVG Air; trade unionist Komal Chand’s body, and his wife from Cuba and a team of officials based in Guyana to return from Suriname after observing their May 25 elections.

‘Machoness does not make you immune’ -Authorities warn that men continue to account for majority of COVID-19 cases MEN continue to account for most of the COVID-19 cases, and authorities believe it is time for this section of the population to be more responsible and protective during their daily lives.

To date, 127 persons have been infected, but of this figure, 57 persons have recovered; 10 have died; three persons are battling for their lives in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU); and there are 60 active cases in institutional quarantine.

Director of Primary Health Care Services Dr. Ertenisa Hamilton, in a virtual COVID-19 update, said 1,366 persons have been tested so far, with 1,239 of those persons being negative.

While a large number of persons tested negative for the disease, there continues to be concern over the number of positive cases, especially regarding the fact that over 80 per cent of those cases are men. In giving a breakdown of the cases, Dr. Hamilton said, 73 persons are men and 54 are women. Also, of the 10 persons who have died, eight are men.

“Let’s remember that COVID-19 is no respecter of gender or anyone for that matter…our machoness does

not somehow miraculously make us immune to this virus. As a matter of fact, in some instances we as men are more vulnerable to contracting the virus, because of the nature of what we are involved in daily as men and with the people and places we frequent on a daily basis,” said Senior Gender Affairs Officer within the Gender Affairs Bureau of the Ministry of Social Protection, Diego Alphonso.

He said it is time for men to recognise and appreciate that wearing a mask correctly, maintaining physical distancing, and regular handwashing do not make them less macho or less of a man.

Instead of making them less of a man, he said practising these measures demonstrates that men are responsible and that they are excelling role models to persons who are looking on.

“Let's do this for the love of our children, our partners and society in general......Picture this scenario, a man not adhering but somehow manage to survive COVID-19 by a fluke, luck, grace of God.......but others may have been observing and following the example of that man and then contracted the virus; it may be one of his own

Senior Gender Affairs Officer within the Gender Affairs Bureau of the Ministry of Social Protection, Diego Alphonso

children or a loved one........ that would be sad........I am not so sure that's what any right-thinking man would desire want to happen,” said Alphonso.

On that note, he reminded persons to adhere to the existing control measures, and consider the safety of their loved ones and the entire population before doing something reckless.

Dr. Hamilton also pleaded with persons to stop behaving recklessly and instead, follow the control measures and guidelines in

Director of Primary Health Care Services, Dr. Ertenisa Hamilton

place, in order to not just safeguard their families, but also themselves and the entire population.

Health authorities continue to work towards strengthening the healthcare system to respond to COVID-19 on a long-term basis, and the potential and existing activities are part of the plan to have a comprehensive COVID-19 health network, whereby patients across the country’s 10 administrative regions will be able to access these services.

Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) remains the epicentre of the disease, and

there are a number of communities outside of Georgetown which have recorded cases.

Among communities on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) where cases have been recorded are: Atlantic Gardens, Friendship, Golden Grove, Good Hope, Lusignan, Plaisance, and Strathspey. Among communities on the East Bank Demerara (EBD) where there were cases are: Diamond, Grove, Land of Canaan, Providence, and Timehri.

Health authorities will be deploying mobile testing units to Cornelia Ida in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and to Diamond in Region Four, today.

Residents of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), were also advised to be watchful and careful as Brazil has now become the country with the third-highest number of confirmed coronavirus infections in the world, after registering a total of more than 250,000 cases. “You remain extremely vulnerable and therefore every resident must be prepared to be his brother’s keeper in order to ensure the safety of everyone,” said Dr. Hamilton.

She said the ministry is also very concerned with the increased cases seen in Regions One (Barima-Waini) and Seven (CuyuniMazaruni). As of Thursday, Region One had two confirmed cases in two of their sub districts. And, Region Seven has a total of seven cases.

Measures can be continuously implemented, but it is up to the individuals, that is the average Guyanese, to adhere to those measures and think seriously about flattening the curve (reducing the spread). The disease remains a serious issue, not just in Guyana, but globally..

And, according to global statistics, there are over 4.8 million cases of COVID-19, with over 323,000 deaths. And with no approved treatment or cure, there is no assurance that persons will survive after contracting the disease.

In the absence of approved medications, governments and authorities across the world have employed a number of preventive measures to contain the spread of the disease.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Coronavirus: Quarantine plans for UK arrivals unveiled

People arriving in the UK must self-isolate for 14 days from 8 June to help slow the spread of coronavirus, the government has said.

Travellers will need to tell the government where they will quarantine, with enforcement through random spot checks and £1,000 fines in England.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said the measure would “reduce the risk of cases crossing our border”.

Lorry drivers, seasonal farm workers, and coronavirus medics will be exempt.

The requirement will also not apply to those travelling from the Republic of Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. If a person does not have suitable accommodation to go to, they will be required to stay in “facilities arranged by the government” at the person’s own expense, according to Border Force chief Paul Lincoln.

According to the Home Office, the new policy will be in place across the UK, although how it is enforced in

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will be determined by the devolved administrations.

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said discussions would take place with Police Scotland to work out how the policy will be implemented.

‘NOT SHUTTING DOWN’ Ms Patel told the daily Downing Street briefing the measures were not the same as completely shutting the UK border to visitors.

“We are not shutting down completely. We are not closing our borders,” she said.

And asked about the prospect of foreign holidays this summer, she added: “This is absolutely not about booking holidays. We want to avoid a second wave and that is absolutely vital.”

So-called “air bridges” - agreements with countries that have low infection rates allowing tourists to travel without quarantining - will not be in place initially, the government said.

The new measure, pre-

viously announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, will be reviewed every three weeks once it is introduced.

But airlines have said a quarantine requirement would “effectively kill air travel” and one airport boss described the plans as a “blunt tool”.

The government currently

recommends international travel only when absolutely necessary, and nobody should travel if they display any coronavirus symptoms.

WHAT DOES THE NEW SYSTEM INVOLVE? Passengers arriving in the UK will be required to fill out

an online locator contact form - providing details of where they will spend their 14 days in self-isolation.

The Home Office said the proposed accommodation will need to meet necessary requirements, such as a hotel or a private address with friends or family.

There will be a fine of £100 for failure to complete the form, and the Border Force will have the power to refuse entry to non-UK citizens who do not comply with the new regulations.

New arrivals will be told they may be contacted at any time during their quarantine and, in England, may be visited by public health authorities conducting spot checks.

They will be told to avoid public transport and travel to their accommodation by car “where possible”, and not to go out to buy food or other essentials “where they can rely on others”.

In England, a breach of self-isolation would be punishable by a £1,000 fixed penalty notice, or prosecution and an unlimited fine for persistent offenders.

Trump drug hydroxychloroquine raises death risk in Covid patients, study says (BBC) The drug US President Donald Trump said he was taking to ward off Covid-19 actually increases the risk of patients with the disease dying from it, a study in the Lancet has found.

The study said there were no benefits to treating patients with the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine.

Mr Trump said he was taking the drug despite public health officials warning Hydroxychloroquine is safe for designated treatments such as malaria, lupus and arthritis

Saturday, May 23, 2020 –– 05:30hrs

that it could cause heart problems.

The president has repeatedly promoted the drug, against medical advice.

Hydroxychloroquine is safe for malaria, and conditions like lupus or arthritis, but no clinical trials have recommended the use of hydroxychloroquine for coronavirus.

The Lancet study involved 96,000 coronavirus patients, nearly 15,000 of whom were given hydroxychloroquine - or a related form chloroquine - either alone or with an antibiotic.

The study found that the patients were more likely to die in hospital and develop heart rhythm complications than other Covid patients in a comparison group.

The death rates of the treated groups were: hydroxychloroquine 18%; chloroquine 16.4%; control group 9%. Those treated with hydroxychloroquine or

chloroquine in combination with antibiotics had an even higher death rate.

The researchers warned that hydroxychloroquine should not be used outside of clinical trials.

Mr Trump says he has not tested positive for Covid-19 and is taking the drug because he thinks it has “positive benefits”.

A trial is under way to see whether the anti-malarial drug could prevent Covid-19. More than 40,000 healthcare workers from Europe, Africa, Asia and South America who are in contact with patients with the disease will be given the drug as part of the trial.

When asked about the Lancet study, White House coronavirus taskforce co-ordinator Dr Deborah Birx said the US Food and Drug Administration had been TURN TO PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Coronavirus: Brazil’s death toll hits 20,000 (BBC) Brazil has become the sixth country in the world to report more than 20,000 deaths from the coronavirus amid warnings the outbreak has not yet reached its peak.

More than 310,000 infections have been confirmed, the third-highest number worldwide after the US and Russia.

Experts say insufficient testing might mean that the true figure in Brazil could be far greater.

President Jair Bolsonaro has repeatedly dismissed the risks posed by the virus.

On Thursday, the country’s far-right leader continued his calls to ease lockdown measures imposed by state governors and mayors to revive a flagging economy.

His attitude towards public health expert advice on Covid-19 has led two health ministers to resign from their posts in the past month.

What is the situation across Brazil?

The number of deaths in

Brazil is doubling roughly every two weeks, compared to about every two months in the UK, four months in France, and

of infection had decreased in certain areas in capital cities, its spread across the rest of the country was “inevitable.”

Experts say insufficient testing might mean that the true figure in Brazil could be far greater

five months in Italy.

On Thursday, interim Health Minister Eduardo Pazuello said that while the level

The virus has already spread widely in deprived areas and amongst the country’s indigenous communities which

Tufton sets record straight following crew member’s miscarriage

(JAMAICA OBSERVER) FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Christopher Tufton has broken his silence on the issue surrounding the Jamaican crew member aboard the Royal Caribbean cruise line’s Adventure of the Seas , who reportedly had a miscarriage hours before the vessel arrived at the Falmouth Cruise Ship Pier on Tuesday.

Speaking at a media briefing at the pier in Trelawny yesterday, Dr Tufton said officials on the vessel rescinded the request to evacuate the expectant mother who had been in distress.

“The report that I have, and I did ask for a report, is that there was correspondence between the vessel and the authorities here on the ground, and [the] correspondence led to arrangements to be put in place for MEDEVAC arrangements to remove the person in question. However, there was a rescinding or a suspension, if you will, of that request by that vessel, and a request to hold until the vessel was docked in port, and the report was that things were okay and could await the docking of the vessel,” said the health and wellness minister.

He stressed that the health officials had complied with the request of the personnel on the vessel.

“We complied as a health authority with

that change of request, and, in fact, when the vessel came in, there was an ambulance, there were doctors — including a senior medical officer — waiting on site to receive the patient in order to transport the patient to the hospital,” he said.

Added Dr Tufton: “There [has been] some information circulated in the media space suggesting that somehow the Government and the health authorities were complicit in the handling of this matter, and I just want to state categorically that we dialogued and we followed the instructions that were given, based on the communication with the vessel, and we were ready to treat with the patient as soon as the vessel docked here in Falmouth, at port. And while we expressed our sympathy with the patient and the challenges that she had to deal with, and we certainly will give her all the necessary support that she deserves, I think it is important to set the record straight and to correct the misinformation that is out there.”

The Jamaica Observer reported yesterday that the crew member, who has since been hospitalised, was 11 weeks pregnant. She added that her employees had done all they could to prevent the tragedy.

Trump drug hydroxychloroquine ... “very clear” about concerns in using the drug as either a coronavirus prevention or as a treatment course.

are more vulnerable to disease.

In São Paulo, Brazil’s largest city with about 12 million residents, a five-day holiday

Dr Marcos Espinal, director of the Pan American Health Organization - part of the World Health Organization - has

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stressed that no clinical trials have recommended the use of hydroxychloroquine for coronavirus.

started on Wednesday in an effort to curb the spread of the virus.

There are concerns that

people from the city will travel to the countryside or the coast instead of staying at home, further spreading the disease, BBC South America correspondent Katy Watson reports.

The authorities cannot make people turn around and they have allowed some traffic to get through, our correspondent adds.

Earlier this week Mayor Bruno Covas warned the health system could collapse in two weeks, and accused those who flouted lockdown rules of playing “Russian roulette” with people’s lives.

How is President Bolsonaro handling the crisis?

Mr Bolsonaro has compared the virus to “a little flu” and promoted the use of the unproven drug chloroquine, despite warnings that it may be unsafe. This week, the health ministry updated its guidelines to allow the use of the drug even for mild cases.

But the president’s focus on reducing economic disruption

and lifting lockdown measures has been welcomed by supporters. He has also attended anti-lockdown rallies, ignoring recommendations of his own health authorities for social distancing.

Mr Bolsonaro and state governors appeared to put their differences aside on Thursday as they held a video conference on how to co-ordinate the response to the pandemic, with the president calling it “a great victory for the Brazilian people.”

São Paulo Governor João Doria - who has previously described the president’s views on tackling the disease as “Bolsonarovirus” - called for unity.

“Brazil needs to be united. If we’re at war, we all face defeat. Let’s go together in peace, Mr President, together for Brazil,” he said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Youth and crime THE gruesome murder of Margaret Dawson, which is alleged to have been masterminded by a yet to be identified 17- yearold and an older accomplice, has sent shockwaves throughout the nation. Investigations so far reveal that the victim may have been sexually assaulted before being left for dead in the Le Repentir Cemetery, where her body was later discovered.

CCTV footage along with confessions from the duo confirm that they were indeed responsible for committing the acts of which they have been accused.

A number of the victim’s belongings were also found on their person when they were apprehended by the police.

The facts, as established so far, clearly show that the crime was not only an act of desperation, but one of incredible aggression and brutality. It also points to an unrelenting trend and constant correlation between youth unemployment, and crime and violence in Guyana.

The escalation of youth crime and violence in Guyana could be attributed to a number of social issues, such as youth unemployment, poor education and high poverty levels among the cohort.

Unfortunately, youth violence con-

tinues to lead our young men, in particular, further down the path of criminality, which ultimately lands them either in prison or in a casket, or sees them becoming homicide victims themselves.

A Study of Inmates in Guyana was conducted by Rodolfo Sarsfield and Marcelo Bergman in 2017 and published in 2018. The study was undertaken in collaboration with the Inter-American Development Bank and Center for Latin American Studies on Crime and Violence. It highlights the correlation between inmates’ childhood and life stories, and their resultant propensity to commit crime. According to the study, six out of ten inmates were physically punished to some degree by their parents or guardians when they were children. One out of four respondents reported that their father or mother's partner used to beat their mothers. In four out of ten cases, the inmates’ parents or adults with whom they lived as children, drank alcohol frequently.

One out of five inmates said they were gang members or belonged to criminal groups in the neighbourhood where they lived as minors.

Four out of ten inmates stated that they had a family member who had been sent to prison.

The findings are stark in their depiction of how the above-mentioned contributing factors all but ensure our young men’s trajectory into violence, crime and personal degradation. The correlation between witnessing and being victims of violence within the home setting, and then going out into society and perpetrating very similar crimes cannot be denied. The normalisation of violence from a young age continues to affect these individuals, and consequently the nature of the crimes they go on to commit. The study also highlights the correlation between alcohol, substance abuse and crime.

Furthermore, these individuals increasingly believe that their only option to make a living is to commit crime. This is reflected in the high levels of youth unemployment or underemployment, and also from statistics in the same study which captured the working patterns of the inmates prior to their incarceration. For instance, six out of ten inmates who had worked in the month before their arrest worked more than forty hours a week, however, many had precarious and unstable jobs. In addition, almost half of the inmates said they had had their first paid job at age 15 or younger. The

same study indicated that eight out of ten inmates had incomplete secondary education, or a lower level of education.

According to the Guyana Labour Force Survey of July 2018, youth unemployment stood at 45.8% and 54.2% for men and women, respectively. And, with approximately 70% of the population being under 35 years old, one can only conclude that the high levels of youth unemployment has a marked effect on unemployment statistics in general.

The trends, patterns and statistics indicate quite clearly that young men who grow up within violent homes and who have been exposed to drugs and alcohol are more likely to commit crime. Coupled with low levels of education and lack of suitable employment opportunities, it is almost guaranteed that they will continue to become perpetrators of crime. To its credit, the ‘Coalition’ government has spent quite a lot of funds on addressing this situation.

Through its anti-crime Citizen Security Strengthening Programme (CSSP), several youths have received technical and vocational training. Some have even gone on to open their own businesses, and in some cases advance their

education. Component One of the Citizen Security Strengthening Programme aims to make youths between the ages of 16 and 25 resilient to crime and violence through the provision of technical and vocational training, and psycho-social support. Also, several NGOs and the USAID have run off programmes targeting At-Risk Youth, from which several young men and women have graduated.

There have been several other initiatives, some undertaken by First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger, empowering young women and also other community-oriented initiatives being run by NGOs and other groups.

Notwithstanding all that has been done, the gruesome and troubling crime which is the subject of this discussion will happen again, if we do not continue to address the underlying reasons why individuals, particularly young men, commit crime. There is no justification for the acts of these individuals, and their actions should be rightfully condemned, however, we must continue to do more to stem the prison pipeline through creating better opportunities for our young men, particularly those who fall within this cohort.

GECOM must swiftly act to remedy abuse of health worker and attempts to disrupt and discredit the national recount

Dear Editor,

THE daily revelation of discrepancies at the national recount centre at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre (ACCC) is worrisome enough, because of the degree and concentration of electoral fraud being unearthed. Still, when an episode of assault on a person is added, it makes the situation even more toxic and explosive. It is time to lock up those responsible for the conspiracy to defraud the electoral system, and to steal the people’s vote and expressed will for a government of their choice.

It was reported that Mr Robeson Benn, a People’s

Progressive Party (PPP)named Commissioner to GECOM allegedly assaulted Dr. Helen Imoff as she attempted to check his temperature as required of persons entering the facility to attend to the recount. Dr. Imoff has found the situation so traumatising an experience, it is being reported that she has resigned from the Ministry of Public Health, where she worked for the past six years.

According to media reports, Dr. Imoff has said that she is “Still in shock, I was in the field risking my life so that everyone can be safe. To be treated with such violence while performing my duties in a most respectful way, is

painful, both physically and emotionally.” No one on duty in the interest of public safety, health and wellness of the Guyanese people should have to endure these kinds of attacks on their person.

The assault on Dr. Imoff

by GECOM Commissioner Benn should be treated as a grave matter. GECOM must, therefore, act decisively in sending a message to Commissioner Benn and others that being a commissioner does not give you the right to assault and/or abuse other members of the public sector. This matter should not die in silence, or with the passage of time, and for this reason, I agree with the Minister of Social Protection,

the Hon. Amna Ally that the police should investigate the situation, and bring charges against Commissioner Benn for the assault.

As it stands now, the public sector has lost the services of a valuable public servant, because of the attitude and behaviour of Commissioner Benn, who should have been helping to set an example of compliance with the guidelines he helped to approve for the ACCC. So, here is a case where he adopts the guidelines, as stipulated by the Ministry of Public Health as it relates to COVID-19, but was willing to break the very said rules by refusing violently to be temperature-checked

by Dr. Imoff.

The situation of the assault on Dr. Imoff is indeed a troubling development, because it involves no less a person than a GECOM Commissioner. For this reason, GECOM must deal with the situation involving Commissioner Robeson Benn without equivocation; it must be decisive. GECOM should demand his recall and re-placement by the PPP, because of his penchant and inclination for aggressive behaviour. Not long ago, he was involved in another incident, where he claimed that he was being “threatened and targeted” by “elements” in the Guyana Police Force.

At a minimum, he should

be suspended from the process, pending the outcome of the investigation, and he should, if he hasn’t already, apologise to Dr. Imoff for the unwarranted assault on her person.

Beyond the action required to remedy the assault on Dr. Imoff, GECOM’s authority and credibility are on the line because of the ever-expanding catalogue of discrepancies at the national recount. Some of the differences and inconsistencies have caused one to wonder whether GECOM had deployed trained staff to operate these polling stations and whether their alpha-numeric TURN TO PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Op-Ed

Dealing with the deadly concoction of disease and disaster

By Patricia Scotland, Commonwealth Secretary-General TODAY, in India and Bangladesh, millions of people are hunkered down in shelters, many with masks on their faces - a chilling reminder of the COVID-19 outbreak that still grips the densely populated countries. Forced to flee their homes and families, some migrant workers who have only just arrived from the cities after walking hundreds of miles to escape the pandemic, wait with agonising uncertainty for the onslaught of super cyclone Amphan.

And in this emerging pandemic reality which has already closely acquainted us with a new type of disruption and hardship, it is hard to imagine the added predicament of the curveball from nature approaching Asia with the record-breaking wind speeds of a category 5 hurricane. The data from the Joint Typhoon Warning Center is worrying. Amphan’s storm winds and heavy rainfall are expected to affect 33.6 million people in India and 5.3 million in Bangladesh, and

target some of the most vulnerable and least developed regions.

In a pre-COVID-19 world, evacuation and preparedness for a disaster of this magnitude would have been fraught with challenges.

In today’s reality, those challenges are exacerbated and multiplied. Both India, which has more than 100, 000 coronavirus cases and Bangladesh, which has more than 26 000, have been successful in managing the pandemic, but are still battling the outbreak with social distancing and other restrictions. This means that shelters in some places are only able to accommodate less than half the usual capacity.

So, as the Commonwealth rallies around the governments and people of India and Bangladesh, we are once again forced to face the persisting reality of climate change and natural disasters. Actually, we are now presented with a new question, how do we analyse and understand the interplay between pandemics, economies, and the environment, and respond to the deadly concoction of disease and disaster?

Indeed, coronavirus crept up on us in the midst of growing skepticism about the effectiveness of multilateral cooperation - reminding us that it’s a small world after all, and eliminating any doubts about the need to collaborate across borders.

And Amphan, in the midst of the pandemic, is now demanding that this spirit of interconnectedness must also inspire our problem-solving approaches. This is a lesson that the Commonwealth has had to learn very early on, mainly because of the vast diversity of challenges and opportunities represented in our membership. So, recently, when Commonwealth Health Ministers met to decide how they could join forces against COVID-19, instinctively their discussion went beyond strategies to ensure everyone can access PPEs, ventilators and testing kits, to also address the economic and environmental aspects of the issue.

We have long understood that nothing short of a robust, multinational, multisector and multi-agency strategy can drive innovation and provide solutions to our complex and multi-dimensional

challenges.

Actually, it is this coordinated, out-of-the-box thinking that inspired UNITAR’s Operational Satellite Application Programme (UNOSAT) and the Commonwealth to create our bespoke CommonSensing platform.

Already rolled out in the Pacific where islands are most vulnerable to devastating cyclones, the project uses satellite-based information to help countries anticipate and plan for disasters, successfully apply for funding for climate action, boost resilience to climate change, and enhance food security. The Secretariat is also actively engaging with UNOSAT to connect their experts with member governments impacted by extreme events; and will be collaborating on a series of webinars on rapid mapping and population exposure analysis to help countries plan evacuation and rebuilding strategies.

Currently, UNOSAT is supporting Bangladesh with a population exposure analysis as part of a suite of responses that the country can use to manage the impact and aftermath of Cyclone Amphan.

So, as we explore specific

steps to support countries which face the twin challenge of a natural disaster and a pandemic, CommonSensing is an excellent example of the kind of collaboration that will save lives and help us bravely enter the much anticipated ‘new normal’.

But it is just part of the holistic, complex, clever and creative strategy that we will need to tackle our emerging challenges from every angle, anticipate the intersection of multi-events and protect economies, people and livelihoods.

It is clear that we need more of resources such as the Commonwealth Disaster Risk Finance Portal to help countries facing hurricanes and cyclones to have, at their fingertips, a range of preparedness financing options.

We need a robust debt relief and management strategy to support those who are on the verge of crisis. We need schemes to empower marginalised groups such as youth, women and migrants.

And we need to ensure that governments are able to recover from recession without undermining environmental protection and climate action, through measures such as tax

incentives for investors to use renewable energy, and climate smart technologies to enhance agricultural production.

We also need to be brave enough to embrace innovative solutions such as the Commonwealth Common Earth initiative, which leverages the resources of governments and the genius of environmentalists, climate change experts and indigenous groups to create tailored, country-led, regenerative and holistic solutions to climate change.

In the Commonwealth, we will continue to use our convening power, partnerships, innovation and advocacy to support and stand in solidarity with India and Bangladesh, our nations in other regions that are bracing themselves for hurricane and cyclone seasons, and those who face the often forgotten challenge of drought. But we can’t do it alone. We need a global effort that is big enough to take on this goliath challenge of intersecting and multiple threats to our planet and people.

Kissoon’s reckless contention that President Granger and Roopnaraine destroyed Guyana Dear Editor, RECENTLY, I have been engaging Mr. Frederick Kissoon on his writings in his columns in spite of the fact that one side of me says “ignore him”, and the other reminds me of my obligation to the country and the younger generation. Here is my response to his May 20, 2020 edition, in the Kaiteur News captioned, Granger and Roopnaraine destroyed Guyana, then discovered it.”

From the caption of this column, one expected to see evidence in support of the contention that President David Granger and Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine “destroyed Guyana”, but none was forthcoming. The caption was intended to be sensational; to attract the attention of readers. I must admit that it works, since I reluctantly read the column. Having done so, it is impossible to decipher what Kissoon means by the destruction of Guyana. The column is more devoted to personal attacks on Roopnaraine

and Granger. To the extent that it seeks to make political points, it lacks objectivity, which is characterised by Kissoon’s usual but deliberate simplistic and reckless utterances.

When speaking of the destruction of a country, one expects to see serious evidence of damaging actions, at least in one or more of the following areas of national life: (1) The economy (2) political institutions (3) judiciary (4) political culture (5) social and cultural institutions, and (6)national cohesion.

At best, what Kissoon highlighted in his column is the Granger administration’s missteps or shortcomings, and Roopnaraine’s politics, as he Kissoon sees it, which, taken individually or collectively, does not amount to the destruction of the country. An objective analysis of the ‘Coalition’ government’s policies and actions will show in all the above-mentioned areas of national life there has seen significant improvements when compared with what was occurring during the

PPP/C administration.

Kissoon wrote, “Granger and Roopnarine had five years in power, and not even a fleeting moment, Granger and his colleague, the ‘great’ WPA leader Roopnarine, even inputted into their exercise of power, inclusionary policies in at least one section or area of life in Guyana, or even one geographical district.” It is interesting that after numerous columns and letters to the editor by Kissoon, pointing to WPA’s powerlessness in the government that he now gives Roopnaraine significant power almost on par with the President in terms of responsibility for government policy or lack thereof. In his present contention, he gives the WPA more power in the ‘Coalition’ government than the AFC. Why? Kissoon is aware that the government is a 60/40 arrangement between the APNU and the AFC. This, therefore, meant that the WPA has little influence and responsibility for government policies. But he wants to beat on Roopnaraine and

the WPA, and in his desperation, he contradicted himself, forgetting his previous “objective” analysis of WPA’s powerlessness in the government.

Kissoon demonstrated his historic dislike for Roopnaraine, but was forced to acknowledge that the ‘great’ WPA leader had a legacy at the national level. And he, Kissoon, to date has none. He writes, “As for Roopnaraine, his legacy has dissolved into volcanic ash. He will be remembered for shameless, political conduct in office while representing the WPA.” Sadly, Kissoon can’t get over the political personality scars of our youthful days as activists, even after decades.

Kissoon correctly points to a letter written by me, in which I stated Roopnaraine’s position on confidentiality of Cabinet business to a WPA executive meeting. This, for Kissoon, becomes evidence of Roopnaraine’s shameless political conduct and, presumably, his destruction of the nation. This is an

example of how Kissoon uses legitimate political and philosophical differences to advance his twisted political narrative. What, for the WPA, is legitimate disagreement, for Freddie it is “treason”.

In closing, I wish to say the following to Kissoon: It is in your self-interest to concentrate on building your legacy, and not to be preoccupied with others who have already made their mark in the annals of the national political history. Your political culture is not compatible with that of the WPA, as is demonstrated by your intolerance for the struggle of ideas. This deficiency stands out in the assessment of Roopnaraine. But, more concerning than the above is your reckless political contention that Granger and Roopnaraine destroyed Guyana.

Regards, Tacuma Ogunseye

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Mercy Hospital launches COVID-19 testing and treatment centre AS the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital (SJMH) celebrates its 75th Anniversary this year, it has risen to the challenge of the coronavirus pandemic and launched a brand new COVID-19 testing and treatment facility at the St. Paul Retreat Centre at Vryheid’s Lust, East Coast Demerara.

The new “COVID-19 Testing, Treatment and Isolation Centre” meets all national criteria for such a facility and was licensed

by Guyana’s Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) after a stringent inspection of the premises and evaluation of the services offered, said a release from the hospital.

Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) of SJMH, Mrs. Deborrah Ramsay, said the hospital was keenly aware that COVID-19 testing and treatment can be overwhelming and unknown territory for many persons, and wanted to make the hospital’s highly-skilled personnel and medical resources available to help control the spread of the disease in Guyana, and assist those who contract it.

The new St Joseph Mercy Hospital COVID-19 testing and treatment facility

According to the release, Ms. Ramsay said the Catholic Church of Guyana promptly joined the hospital’s cause, and Bishop Francis Alleyne of the Diocese of Georgetown allowed the SJMH to use one of the church’s buildings to house the COVID-19 centre.

“We are thankful to the Catholic Church of Guyana

GECOM must swiftly act to remedy ... skill set was deemed sufficient. There is no doubt that before long, it will have to decide on how it will treat all these cases of electoral fraud being uncovered in every box thus far recounted. The world awaits its ruling.

Those of us who have followed elections in various jurisdictions around the world is anticipating that in some instances GECOM will need the assistance of the police and perhaps overseas expertise to unravel this level of coordinated electoral fraud that is being perpetrated against the Guyanese people.

In other countries, these kinds of discrepancies when uncovered draw penalties of varying degrees, such as the outright removal of the affected ballots; or discarding the entire ballot box, removing it from the tally. Depending on how widespread the infraction and how it would impact

on the final outcome, the election officials might order a re-run in the affected polling division or district to determine the winner; and very often the election officials who participate in such fraudulent activities at the time of the election, are charged and imprisoned.

The systemic level of electoral fraud being uncovered at the ACCC requires swift action by GECOM. The deferring of some of these decisions to a debate or discussion in the heavily partisan Commission, later in the process will hurt overall credibility of GECOM in the end. Some of the discrepancies, like dead people voting, do not need a debate. The proof is easily obtained and verifiable. The deceased is not supposed to vote.

Regards, R. Chung-A-On

for making this spacious facility available for this purpose. We are also happy to assure our patients that COVID-19 patients are not being treated at our institution in Kingston and therefore there is no need to worry as it relates to accessing treatment and care for other health-related concerns,” Mrs. Ramsay said.

The hospital said it spent GYD$20M to develop the centre as an all-inclusive COVID-19 facility that embraces the unique needs, challenges and circumstances of patients, and provides them the opportunity to get testing and treatment.

According to Mrs. Ramsay, the hospital spared no effort to provide top-rated

Platform for Community Development Guyana

Dear Editor,

THE Environmental Community Health Organization (ECHO) is in the process of finalising arrangements to begin a special and new environmental initiative, Platform for Community Development Guyana (PFCDG). This is a Community-based grassroots initiative that aims to assist to secure and protect the ecology and public health of local communities across Guyana. It is a circle of hands from different cultures working together to protect and promote the health of the Environment, and to help keep our communities safe.

This initiative emerged out of a profound consciousness and deep understanding of the importance of the natural environment to the health and wellbeing of communities and their residents and our country as a whole.

It is also in keeping with our nation’s vision of Guyana becoming a ‘Green’ State.

An important aspect of this initiative is our Sus-

tainable Environmental Enhancement Plan (SEEP). A major activity of this plan is to plant 3 million trees, by the end of, December, 2021, in different parts of Guyana.

We hope to begin this particular activity in late August of this year.

Platform for Community Development Guyana would also be looking at other things, in communities including: water, sanitation, recreational facilities, outdoor gyms and fitness facilities and urban agriculture. It would also help to organize local communities and work with community leaders to mobilize resources for various developmental projects.

In another three weeks, June 10, 2020, Platform for Community Development would be enlisting volunteers for its massive tree planting activity scheduled for August 2020. Citizens and individuals, who are interested must call telephone number 6909810 for more information.

Regards, Royston King

medical products, amenities and services at the centre—geared toward efficient screening for coronavirus, and when necessary, providing the most comfortable environment for persons who require institutional isolation, so they can survive and thrive.

The release said that to this end, the COVID-19 Test-

ing, Treatment and Isolation Centre” was fitted with 37 beds, a broad system of air conditioning units and an adequate number of sanitary blocks, while also meeting MoPH air-quality requirements. The release said that staff members are fully trained and equipped with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) necessary to effectively prevent contagion.

“Persons who have tested positive at the centre and decided to be admitted there would not be required to pay for the initial test. All tests required prior to discharge will attract a fee,” the release said.

“The SJMH remains committed to delivering the highest level of care to those seeking medical attention and looks forward to continuing serving the public, in keeping with its 75 years of quality care,” the hospital said.

Driver in Canje fatal accident granted bail --slapped with four charges, one of them curfew-related

Dead: Raquel Edwards

Charged: Sasenarine Jairam

SASENARINE Jairam, the driver in last weekend’s hit-and-run fatal accident on the Canje Public Road, appeared before Magistrate Peter Hugh at the New Amsterdam Court on Thursday, where he pleaded not guilty to the four charges brought against him, all of which are traffic-related.

Jairam, 34, who reportedly runs a mechanic shop in Georgetown, has been charged with: Causing death by dangerous driving; failing to render assistance; failing to stop after the accident; and breach of restriction to home, which is curfew-related.

After pleading not guilty of causing the death of

39-year-old pedal cyclist, Raquel Edwards, he was ordered to post bail in the sum of $345,000.

On Saturday May 16, just after 20:50hrs, the defendant was reportedly behind the wheel of PNN 3631, travelling at a fast rate of speed along the Fort Canje Public Road, when he ran into Edwards, of Levi Dam, New Amsterdam, and fled the scene.

Edwards, who would have turned 40 on Sunday, subsequently died at the New Amsterdam Hospital, and according to the autopsy, her injuries were “multiple”. She is expected to be buried today.

‘Here's the proof’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

…coalition submits, to GECOM, list of electors who were overseas but recorded as voted

…to make further submissions on ‘dead voters’, other anomalies THE APNU+AFC coalition has submitted a list of persons who have been listed as voted at the March 2, 2020, elections despite being overseas after being invited by the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission to do so.

The coalition has also promised to furnish the electoral body with more evidence of same and also of persons who are deceased and listed as voted. This moves comes one day after GECOM’s Chairman, Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh, had declared that “he who asserts must show proof”. But even before that, the coalition had written her regarding the anomalies.

Justice Singh, in a release Thursday, had said that while issues surrounding the Observation Reports are engaging the attention of the Commission, no decision had been made. “In fact, although there was discussion, no decision was taken in this regard at the level of the Commission,” the GECOM Chair clarified. She added: “While I continue to monitor the trends based on the allegations in the Observation Reports, I am of the view that he who asserts must prove.”

Justice Singh assured that when there are considerable deliberations and decisions at the Commission in relation to claims of anomalies, the outcome would be officially

communicated to the political parties and other stakeholders, particularly the press.

GECOM’S CORRESPONDENCE However, in a correspondence seen by this newspaper titled “Decisions arising out of meeting held between representatives of the APNU/AFC and the Guyana Elections Commission.” Justice Singh wrote coalition agent, Joseph Harmon, referencing a letter he wrote her, dated May 20, 2020, pertaining to the subject, and his request for guidance from the Commission, in relation to concerns raised in previous correspondence and subsequent meeting with a coalition delegation.

Justice Singh wrote: “In this regard, I have to inform you that your concerns are actively engaging the attention of the Commission. However, while there has been no decision yet on these matters, I wish to request for your Party to formally submit evidence in relation to the objections, particularly as they relate to deaths and migration. The submission of evidence would inform the deliberations at the level of the Commission. I look forward to your submissions at your earliest convenience,” Justice Singh wrote.

Meanwhile, in another correspondence seen by this newspaper following up on Justice Singh’s letter, Harmon

General Secretary of APNU, Joseph Harmon

wrote: “during the recount, agents of the APNU+AFC made objections at the Counting Stations to the voting and counting of ballots by certain Electors after the Counting Agents indicated that the said Electors were recorded as having voted at the March, 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections. Our investigations have revealed that Electors were outside the jurisdiction and were recorded as voted.” “I hereby supply a list of Electors listed in the Appendix to this letter who were not in Guyana as at the 2nd of March, 2020, and were recorded as voted. We will provide further documentation of other Electors who were outside the jurisdiction and who were recorded as voted,” Harmon wrote.

Chairperson of GECOM, Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh

He said the list submitted to GECOM gives validity to the coalition’s objections and brings into serious question the credibility of the March, 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

COALITION SAYS HAVE PROOF Meanwhile, the APNU-AFC coalition, at the outset of the recount, had announced that, in an organised manner, it will be highlighting, to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), evidence of persons who would have voted at the recent regional and general elections but who are known to be deceased or have migrated.

This method includes death certificates and the migration

records of these individuals —- documents which would serve as hard proof to the Commission which has requested same.

For these persons in question, especially those alive, the Commission has asked that the party utilises the individual’s ballot serial number instead of their names. Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, representing the APNU+AFC had told reporters at the recount venue: “We have a team in the background providing all the serial numbers to our agents before the boxes are open so that we can give them as much information as possible…we have death certificates, we have migration records, we have very reliable information.”

ORDER PROVIDES FOR ANOMALIES Though the ruling coalition has provided death certificates and other records to support its claims at the level of the workstations, the PPP/C has argued that no such evidence was produced.

The official order, gazetted on May 4, provides for observations including anomalies and irregularities to be included in the Observation Reports.

Commissioner Vincent Alexander has repeatedly said that many of the irregularities are grave and the Commission will deliberate on them during the course of the recount.

Another Elections Commissioner, Desmond Trotman, echoed similar sentiments in a previous interview, explaining that, based on his understanding, the GECOM Secretariat, upon completion of the recount, will summarise the observations recorded throughout the exercise and submit a report to the commission.

Unlike Gunraj, Trotman said anomalies with merit ought to be investigated.

“The commission will have to investigate these allegations before the process ends because this process is not merely about a recount. It is intended also to find out if the elections itself were credible, and so you have to take all of those factors into consideration to make a determination about credibility,” Trotman told reporters.

However, while clarifying that while the commission has not decided on how it will treat with the Observation Reports, Trotman made it known that he will lobby for allegations with merit to be investigated. “If it is that you are talking about credibility, if you want to ascertain if the elections were credible, once you have information supported by proof that something went on, that shouldn’t have taken place, you have to look at it,” he submitted.

Jay and Sylvia Sobhraj Foundation distributes 1000 hampers

… to organisations and communities AS the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to impact the world, and more so Guyana, overseas-based organisation, the Jay and Sylvia Sobhraj Foundation, has embarked on distributing 1,000 food hampers to the less fortunate during this very challenging period.

The donation of the hampers is a collaborative effort supported by Zara Reality from New York, USA, according to a press release.

It said that the Jay and Sylvia Sobhraj Foundation tasked themselves to embark on the distribution drive because the

pandemic has paused several operations in Guyana, including their free computer courses being offered in Georgetown, Berbice and on the Essequibo Coast.

The release said that the Foundation began its relief efforts in April by installing twenty-three sinks in high-traffic areas on the Essequibo Coast, including four at the Suddie Hospital. After the installation, and having seen the effects of the virus, the Foundation saw the need for the distribution of hampers to those in need.

Founder, Jay Sobhraj, believes it is his civic duty to

continue humanitarian work for Guyanese during this epidemic and applauded the essential workers for their courageous act in fighting the virus.

Executive member of the Foundation, Nardeo Singh, believes that, during this time, persons should be their brother’s keeper and hopes more organisations would come forward to assist in this time of need. Singh stressed the importance of social distancing and highlighted the fact that the virus has impacted persons, mentally, physically and financially.

“Thus far, in Georgetown,

hampers were distributed to the several communities and organisations, including the frontline workers of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation's (GPHC) COVID 19 Unit, The Guyana Nurses Association, Guyana Police Force 'G' Division, Dharm Shala, ISKCON of Guyana Hare Krishna Study Centre, the Chateau Margot Maha Vishnu Mandir, Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), St Ann’s Orphanage, Bless the Children Home, Shaheed’s Boys Orphanage, St John Bosco Boys Orphanage, residents of the Lodge Community, and villages on the East Coast of Demerara, West Bank of De-

merara ,West Coast Berbice and on the Essequibo Coast,” the release said.

Chief Nursing Officer, Linda Johnson, expressed profound gratitude for the timely contribution. She said the nurses will continue to uphold the standard of healthcare in Guyana and will continue to work towards fighting COVID-19.

Assistant Administrator of the St John Bosco Boys Orphanage, Keizel Joseph, expressed gratitude to the Foundation for the hampers and said that while donations have slowed up, the boys and management are managing during the pandemic, the release said.

Hampers were also distributed to the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affair in collaboration with Iwokrama and the ‘Visit Rupununi’ Organisation with the intent of assisting the vulnerable and needy in the interior locations.

Minister of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Sydney Allicock, said he was heartened at the gesture. He said the pandemic has severely impacted the world. Still, the donation fosters a sense of togetherness towards Guyanese and to a greater extent for the Indigenous people.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

This is a paid political ad

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Guyana lifts second million-barrel of oil

–– payment expected early June GUYANA has officially lifted its second million-barrel of crude from the Liza Destiny Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel and payment for this shipment is expected within in the first week of June.

The lift concluded on Thursday, May 21, 2020, with the crude cargo being transferred to oil tanker, Sonangol Namibe, a Bahamas flag carrier. The Guyana Chronicle confirmed that the lift was witnessed by Officers of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS).

During a media briefing earlier in May, Director of the Department of Energy (DE), Dr. Mark Bynoe, had projected that the country’s

second lift would be expected by the third week of May and its third lift, possibly by July 2020.

Guyana sold its first million barrels of oil on February 19, 2020, raking in nearly US$55M. This was the first of three cargoes that were contracted to Shell Western Supply and Trading. Meanwhile, coming from its first quarter gross production, the country received US$4.9M in royalties--- now deposited into the Natural Resource Fund (NRF).

Despite the global crisis which has posed delays in oil and gas operations, the projection that Guyana is entitled to five cargoes for this year has not changed. This means that after Shell would have received its three cargoes by July, the country can

EPA engages Private Sector on proposed ban of single-use plastics

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on May 20, 2020, engaged representatives from the Private Sector Commission (PSC), along with executive members of the Georgetown, as well as, the Regional Chambers of Commerce.

A press release said that the virtual consultation aimed to: apprise the Private Sector of the ban; discuss the potential impacts on members of the Private Sector, along with opportunities for businesses, and recommendations to remedy any possible social and economic gaps which may arise as a result of the ban.

“Prior to the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic, the EPA conducted a series of consultations with several business stakeholders, including supermarkets and importers of single-use plastics. However, due to the COVID-19 restrictions, the EPA transitioned to hosting virtual consultations on the ban since April 2020, with a wide cross-section of stakeholders, including financial institutions, the tourism sector, and international partner organisations,” the EPA said in the press release.

According to the EPA, some of the major concerns emanating from the engagements with the private sector were relative to viable alternatives for the proposed items to be banned; increased education and awareness campaigns targeting the business community; and fiscal incentives to support the local development of alternatives. At the most recent consultation, the release said, representatives of the Private Sector Commission and the Regional Chambers of Commerce endeavoured to confer with their members and other related committees, to provide more coherent feedback and recommendations on the implementation of the ban. “The Agency remains committed to ensuring that the proposed single-use plastics ban adequately captures and addresses the concerns of key stakeholders, so as to ensure the smoothest possible transition and more effective compliance,” the release said.

The Agency said it has an upcoming virtual consultation with representatives from bars, restaurants and hotels on May 28, 2020 at 14:00h. This follows the success of its first facebook live session on April 22, 2020. Another facebook live session relative to the ban is scheduled for June 03, 2020 at 13:00h (1:00pm).

The Agency is making every effort to meet with as many stakeholders as possible, including members of the public, and importers/manufacturers of single-use plastics and/or alternatives.

“We encourage you to contact us if you have feedback to provide. Please also participate in our public survey made accessible on our social media pages,” the release said.

market its crude to another company/location.

Dr. Bynoe last reported that the ‘light sweet’ Liza Crude has been well received despite it being new to the

market and despite the drop in global oil demand. Updates from Shell indicate that the crude oil assay [testing of the properties and composition of crude oils] is perform-

ing consistent with samples put out over a year ago.

Meanwhile, the DE has been strategic in its initial search for International Oil Companies (IOCs) to

buy its crude as it wanted to ensure that many potential refineries would come into contact with its crude for the creation of a “global footprint”.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Keeping active in the pandemic – arts, craft, self-care and cooking WITH many now staying indoors to aid in the slowing of the spread of the deadly COVID-19, finding innovative, fun things to do can be a challenge.

However, several entrepreneurs have opted to take their various businesses to the homes of their customers.

Surida Nagreadi, owner of the popular ‘Sip & Paint’ event, Zen Events, has been offering at-home painting kits, along with self-care baskets to her customers.

The self-care baskets which vary in prices come

with scented candles, novels, journals, stylish pens and markers, luxury soaps, colouring books, bathing salts, facial masks, and body care products. Meanwhile, the at-home painting kits consist of a canvas, several brushes and acrylic paint along with instructions.

Nagreadi is also offering painting kits for children to help them keep busy while exploring their creative skills amidst the closure of schools.

“What we offer, is a one of kind crafting experience that we bring to individu-

als, to couples, to families, basically anything that we do self-care is fundamental, so we are bringing different events which we could have not done now because of the COVID-19 situation [to people’s homes],” she stated.

Meanwhile, John Reman a local chef, is looking to promote a healthier lifestyle, and the nostalgic feeling of cooking in a Guyanese kitchen, with his upcoming cooking show.

He noted that, during this stressful time, cooking is definitely an activity that can

A giant paper flower created by one of Travell Blackman’s students during the virtual workshop

ease the anxieties surrounding the ongoing health crisis.

“At this time people can start to reconnect with their culinary dream, in doing that persons can engage with their spouses and family,” the chef stated.

He added that cooking will open a person’s mind to become more creative in the kitchen and thus eat healthier.

“It forces you to think healthy and outside of the box and make use of whatever ingredients you may have in your home.”

Additionally, Chef Reman noted that one of his primary goals of his upcoming programme is to have interactive sessions with persons, and encourage them to have family time in the kitchen, so as to return the nostalgia of cooking together as a family, and teaching the younger ones the art of the Guyanese cuisines and other dishes.

Additionally, Travell Blackman, owner and Chief Executive Officer of Innovign Art, has been offering virtual décor workshops, teaching the fundamental techniques in creating giant paper flowers and other decorative pieces.

“Because of the COVID-19 everything is on hold, our contracts have been postponed or cancelled until

The self-care packages being offered by Zen Events to customers during the pandemic further notice; nevertheless, Innovign Art is making the best of the situation and is offering virtual workshops,” he stated.

Innovign has hosted workshops in Berbice, Bartica, Essequibo Coast and Linden and across the Caribbean regions.

The entrepreneur noted that the workshops have managed to see persons from St. Kitts, Barbados, Jamaica and other far-fetched areas.

He added that thousands have since benefitted from the workshops, some even going on to start their own decorative business.

Mabaruma man fatally stabbed POLICE at Mabaruma are investigating the death of a man who was stabbed multiple times at former disco in the North West District town.

Dead is Colin Campbell who is said to be in his late 40s.

Reports are that man was stabbed multiple times under the region of his heart by his spouse at around 18:00hrs. The incident occurred at a former

disco called the ‘Golden Hole’ where the couple lived.

Campbell and the suspect operated a small business at the disco which folded several years ago. Reports are that the two were engaged in frequent arguments over the years.

The two were heard arguing on Friday afternoon and moments later, the suspect attacked the man.

Persons nearby were

alerted and the police were called to the scene.

Reports are that the victim died on the spot. The woman was subsequently arrested by the police.

The woman was the prime suspect in the disappearance of her father back in April 2017.

Senior citizen, Eustace Marcelino, left his home to cut wood in a nearby field at Hubu Hill, Mabaruma on April 2, 2017 but never returned.

Days later, the 85year old man’s relatives discovered his shoes and a cutlass some distance away from his North West District home.

He resided opposite the Guyana Defence Force base, Camp Everard, near the Mabaruma Airstrip.

They became worried about his safety after information surfaced that the man’s daughter visited the post office in the area one day after

he went missing and collected his pension by allegedly forging his signature.

Reports are that the woman was in the habit of “beating” Marcellino and since his disap pearance on April 02,2017 they believe he may have been harmed by the woman and others. Police questioned the woman but never found evidence tying her to the elderly man’s disappearance.

Dead: Colin Campbell

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

‘CARICOM team is enough’ … Nigel Hughes, Stanley Ming say int’l observers should not be esteemed over CARICOM

… chide foreigners for premature statements

By Lisa Hamilton PROMINENT attorney-at-Law, Nigel Hughes and established businessman, Stanley Ming, have weighed in on the involvement of international observers in Guyana’s electoral situation, noting that some actions have been premature while others seem to underestimate the role of CARICOM. Appearing as guests on Benschop Radio 107.1 FM on Thursday night, the men were asked to speak on Guyana’s most engaging current affairs, the national recount, and the involvement of groups such as the Organisation of the American States (OAS) and the Carter Center.

AGAINST ESTABLISHED TREATIES Hughes first made it clear that international observers have the right to perform their roles which

Businessman Stanley Ming are to observe the electoral process and report on any perceived irregularities, misconduct or anything that goes against local and international standards.

However, in his examination of the treaties and conventions which guide observers, he said that he has not seen any provision for them make pronouncements prior to the presentation of their reports.

Hughes’ comments come as Bruce Golding, former Prime Minister of Jamaica and head of the OAS Observer Mission to Guyana for the March elections, only eight days into the national recount, claimed that there was a “transparent effort to alter the results” of the elections based on information from only 20 ballot

boxes from Region Four.

Though noting that he is not an electoral expert, Hughes stated: “The second a person takes a position before the conclusion of the event that they are observing means that they would not have had the benefit of the full conduct of that event --- in this case the election --- to be able to offer a conclusive position having observed all of the activities that have transpired.”

He later added: “So, if Mr. Golding’s actions --- which they appear to be --- would have come before the OAS would have actually produced a final report, then I think perhaps…that his actions may be precipitated and clearly don’t form part of the final report and certainly seems to be beyond the protocols there established for observing.”

HASTY CONCLUSIONS Meanwhile, Ming agreed that Golding’s actions were hasty and pointed to the 2019 Ecuador elections which he claimed the OAS wrongfully pronounced upon without having all the information and were “proved wrong”.

Shifting then to the matter of the perceived impartiality of certain observer missions in Guyana, giving his advice, the attorney said that even if this is the perception, it would be expected that an observer mission would consider pursuing a path that does not add to any existing concerns.

He said that it is important that, if Guyanese are to benefit from the process, those who are tasked with providing an end report are perceived, by all sides, to have some level of equanimity and fairness.

NO HIGHER STATUS The men also spoke to the involvement of the Carter Center. In a statement on Thursday, the centre said that it is “deeply disappointed” with its exclusion from Guyana’s national recount process and believes that “genuine commitment to transparency” is hampered by its absence.

It had plans of fielding a two-member team to the country earlier in the month but the government denied the same citing CARICOM as “the most legitimate interlocutors in the Guyana situation,” and

the COVID-19 pandemic.

The centre said that while it acknowledges the value of CARICOM and other observers to the process, it feels as if its work, as an accredited observer, has been stymied due to its re-entry restriction to the country. The matter also goes into context with the earlier remarks of United States (U.S.) Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, that the involvement of the

observers, that one can say greater weight ought to be placed on a report from the Carter Center as opposed to a report from CARICOM, as opposed to a report from one of the political parties, as opposed to even if we had a domestic observer mission. I’m not sure that one can say that the Carter Center, because they have a more prominent leader in the person of President [Jimmy] Carter, their report is entitled to any greater weight or consideration,” he opined.

He said that unless there is some “compelling capacity” that the Carter Center has above the CARICOM scrutinising team --- sent under the auspices of CARICOM Chair, President Mia Mottley --- their reports will be as credible as any other.

A SOVEREIGN STATE As it relates to the government’s denial of re-entry of the Carter Center to the country, Hughes reminded that many Guyanese stranded

Attorney-at-Law, Nigel Hughes Carter Center is necessary for Guyanese to have “complete confidence” that their elections were free, fair and credible.

Weighing in, Ming stated said that he is aware of the useful involvement of the Carter Center in Guyana’s past elections but nothing, in his opinion, would be different should they be absent from the current recount process, given the presence of CARICOM. “You don’t need anybody more than what we have from the Caribbean. I think our Caribbean brothers and sisters are competent as any and in some cases even more. And why I say more, [is] not because they’re more intelligent, but they know the culture of the Caribbean, they know how we behave,” he put forward.

“We don’t need the Carter Center or the OAS or anybody, people from the Caribbean are capable enough.” Continuing on the topic, Hughes said that he does not believe that greater importance should be given to one observer mission over another as all reports coming out of the elections process, by well-standing stakeholders, matter.

“The Carter Center is one of several observers and I am not sure, in the absence of seeing the report of all the

overseas have been unable to return because of the existing travel ban due to COVID-19.

He said that, in allowing re-entry into the country of any group of persons, the government must have considered the comparativeness of re-entry for its citizens and the re-entry of two observers. In its final decision, he said that the government must have also considered the public relations consequence of making such a decision. Even so, he said the fact remains that the government of Guyana, by law, has the right to make such decisions, especially in times of crisis, in the interest of its people.

“A sovereign state has the responsibility and the Executive government of a sovereign state --- the leader --- has the responsibility for determining what is in the best interest for the safety, protection and health of the citizenry. If, particularly, in an unprecedented crisis like we have now, they have adopted certain health requirements…then one would expect that whatever the

sovereign state, through its Executive, has put in place will be observed by anybody who is going to come to the country,” Hughes explained, adding: “I certainly don’t think that an exception should be made merely because a person wants to come back to observe an elections and you’re not allowing your own nationals to return, because that has its own problems.”

During the interview, Ming also made a strong pitch for Constitutional reform noting that the promise has been too far delayed by both major political parties. His position is that its absence has been the “recipe and the downfall of Guyana”.

Meanwhile, though Hughes supports the call for Constitutional reform, he noted that the population may need additional education on the matter as though such reforms remain important, the majority of supporters seem to have been made comfortable with a winner-take-all system.

14

No date yet for re-opening of UG THE University of Guyana’s Transitional Management Committee (TMC) wishes to remind staff and students that no definite date for the return to faceto-face mode of classes has been announced.

In a release, the university said staff and students are reminded that the only official source of information is the Transitional Management Committee (TMC), through the internal official sources, SRMS, HRMIS and the University’s website. A full scale return to campus before the end of June is not envisaged at this time.

However, updates will be posted regarding the situation next week.

UK to contribute US$3.8M to boost PAHO COVID-19 response in the Caribbean THE United Kingdom has agreed to contribute 3 million Pounds (USD $3.8 m) to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to help eight countries of the Caribbean - Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - contain the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and mitigate its impact.

The financial contribution from the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID) is in addition to the USD $9.9m already provided by the UK Government via the World Health Organization (WHO) allocations to support PAHO’s response strategy to COVID-19 in Latin America and the Caribbean as outlined in its Donor Appeal.

The funds from DFID will assist Caribbean countries to access critical medical equipment and other urgent supplies for the immediate health response to COVID-19.

The objective of the six-month project is to help save lives and reduce human-to-human transmission of the virus, including secondary infections in healthcare settings, through re-organization of health services and the implementation of Infection Prevention and Control measures. It also aims to ensure early detection of COVID-19 cases by strengthening existing surveillance systems and scaling up laboratory capacity. Part of the strategy will also improve the communication of clear and transparent public health information about risks and protective measures to populations on the islands.

Pan American Health Organization Director Dr. Carissa Etienne said “PAHO very much appreciates the strong partnership and long-standing support of the Government of the United Kingdom. We are grateful to UK DFID for helping Caribbean small island developing states combat the serious COVID-19 pandemic and address the unique challenges they are facing.”

Stefan Kossoff, Country Director for the UK DFID in the Caribbean, said: “The UK Government is committed to supporting our Caribbean friends and partners through this crisis. We all face unprecedented challenges with COVID19, and UK assistance is supporting vulnerable health systems in the Caribbean and across the world to save lives, protect vital services and reduce the risk of future waves of infection globally. In addition to our multi-million commitment for the development of a possible vaccine, this direct regional support will help Caribbean countries to cope with the coronavirus crisis, boost their healthcare efforts and protect the most vulnerable.

The UK stands with the people of the Caribbean in these difficult times.”

The donation from the UK Government will also contribute to the UN’s Multi-Sectoral Response Plan for the Eastern Caribbean, launched on 30 April 2020 and which aims to support countries in the Eastern Caribbean to scale-up their respective national actions to respond to COVID-19 through a multi-dimensional approach. With funds from DFID, PAHO will support a coherent public health response that addresses the most pressing needs of the benefitting countries and ensure strong coordination and management as well as information sharing arrangements with other UN and regional/bilateral agencies to maximize impact and eliminate potential duplication.

PAHO, as the specialised health agency in the Americas and the Regional Office of WHO, is providing critical leadership, coordination and assistance to fight the spread of COVID-19, save lives, and protect the most vulnerable peoples in all 52 countries and territories of the Americas.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Fake profiles hampering ERC crackdown –– on racist rants on social media

By Gabriella Chapman

FOR decades, racism has been a plague on our Guyanese society, and of recent times we have noticed an upsurge in racist remarks being peddled through social media platforms, most of which are attributed to the current political climate.

And even though the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) is the designated body that functions to monitor, in-

is easier when these remarks are made by way of a video, referencing recent cases such as the teen from the University of Guyana and the woman who went on a racial rant from her hammock last week. It is easier since the person’s true identity is attached, so they can find them and apply the necessary punishment to the individual.

He explained that their efforts are guided by the Racial Hostility Act and the Representation of the People Act, and that persons ought to know

Barrington Braithwaite, an ERC Commissioner who is also part of the investigative sub-committee added that in light of COVID-19, their efforts are even more problematic.

“There are still some very serious ones that we haven’t been able to meet as yet, because as a result of COVID, we have to communicate by Zoom. So there’s a disjointed period right now; we are not on the ball as we usually are. But we would usually investigate

something always to do with politics. Politicians need to mature and grow, because you would find these things always happen during the political seasons. The most recent with the woman making the lewdest remarks to critique people of African descent is very sickening; it eats my heart,” he lamented.

And even though an apology was issued by the woman, Khan believes that her excuse is not valid.

“When you already fired the gun, you can’t stop the bullet. Even though she offered an apology, saying that she has an African grandson and son-inlaw, and she was drunk when she made the video, you can’t go to court for killing someone and use being drunk as a reason the get off; you can’t be excused from such action.

It’s good that she offered an apology, but there are others; those threatening to kill the president, and I’m very depressed about the future about our country,” Khan said.

THIRD-PARTY COMMENTATORS He also holds the view that when these posts get the large attention, it worsens the situation.

“These posts, I believe, A depiction of a unified Guyanese society being portrayed by Guyana’s contin- reflect the contingence of their character, and these maniacs gent in a performance at the last CARIFESTA (Photo by Vishani Ragobeer) will start attacking each other.

The third-party commentators vestigate and assist in repri- that their misguided actions cases, gather a perspective, are the ones exacerbating this manding perpetrators, several are considered a very serious evaluate, then locate persons thing.”

Commissioners have said that offence. Smith also said that and ask them to come in. But, But as it relates to his role it will take a countrywide team even though one person may of course, a lot of these people in the ERC, Khan said that effort to foster the national make a racist post or comment, do not use their real names, it is indeed difficult for them unity. it is the thousands of others and they are especially the po- and they cannot work indeGiven the dynamics of who share and spread that one litical ones,” Braithwaite said. pendently to fight this scourge, social media, members of the post/comment and make it The Commissioner repre- the ERC, he explained, cannot investigating team in the Com- viral that causes the division senting the Islamic Communi- arrest people, but has to go mission said they are critically to spread. ty, Roshan Khan said that he through protocols and systems. challenged to curb the social Because when one group and the other commissioners “We are not an enforcemedia attacks. Lloyd Smith, of people starts to attack, are concerned about the unity, ment agency. We are apwho is the head of the inves- another will come in and goodwill and harmony of this pointed through Parliament, tigation unit, told the Guyana defend, and the hate spirals. country. and when we get these casChronicle that the process is He, however, explained es, we have to go to the not a walk through, but they ‘MISCHIEVOUS ACTS’ that the ERC’s protocol is that police and the police too are trying as much as they can He referred to this as on behalf of the Commission, have their protocols. Even in to keep it at a minimum. ‘mischievous acts’. the Chairman or Deputy are crime, there is a due process.

“We face a lot of challeng“These things go viral and the ones allowed to comment. We are not a dictator orgaes in conducting the inves- get a lot of traction, not from As such, he shared his nization, we can’t call the tigations of people who use the person, but the mischie- remarks in his personal ca- police and say go and arrest social media to air their racial vous acts make the posts go pacity, since he is also the this person, and so despite annotations. We have several viral. The offender is the Chairman of the Muslim the recent increase, it is very instances where people put one who posts it, but the mis- core group of the Ministry difficult to investigate and up things, and by the time we chief-maker is the thousands of of the Presidency, Depart- arraign these offenders,” are made aware, they take it other people who share it and ment of Social Cohesion, and Khan said. down, so there is no evidence. spread it across the country. the National Chairman the But everyone has a reA lot of them use pen names, So now what was intended for Universal Peace Federation sponsibility to foster a unified and have incorrect information educational purposes is now Guyana Chapter. society, and the entire Guyon their profile; no address, a platform for mischievous anese society should work no contact number. And some people,” Smith said.

MIND-BOGGLING along with the Commission to people pretend to be other He agreed that instead of Khan said that he is very achieve this. people, and some people have persons making racist posts go disturbed about anything Efforts to get a comment said that they were hacked. viral, they should report them that fosters hate in any form, from the Chairman and DepSo it is very difficult to find to the Commission, so that the and in his opinion, most ha- uty were futile, however, the perpetrators when we have all author could be dealt with, tred stems from politics. contacted commissioners these technical challenges,” given that there are laws that “Hate boggles my mind confirmed that their team is Smith said. cater to persons who denigrate on where it comes from, and working assiduously to play However, he noted that it other people by race. from my humble opinion, it is their part.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Reg. 10 urges residents to take up kitchen gardening

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–– to see it as an alternative means of earning a living

IN light of the new living and working conditions due to the COVID-19 outbreak here, the Regional Health and Emergency Committee (RHEC) of Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) is encouraging persons to attach greater importance to finding alternative means of providing for their families through kitchen gardening.

As Regional Agricultural Officer, Deryck Collins pointed out at a recent RHEC meeting, there is

used to plant.

“We must understand that planting, especially in these times, are of critical importance, as it helps us to return to those days when almost every household had a kitchen garden. We must desist from this concept that farming is not a good thing, as planting should be a passion for every Guyanese,” Collins said. “It is important to know that a lot of what they are eating would have come from their own yard space; it helps in creating food security, and, most

is something that he and other regional officials had been trying for years to get them to do; to convince persons that farming is the way to go.

“This pandemic has brought a positive spinoff,” he said, “in the sense that more persons are eager and determined to start their kitchen gardens, as they recognise that accessing fruits and vegetables can be challenging at times.

Therefore, we are happy thus far with the increased interest being

Regional Agricultural Officer, Deryck Collins explains to REO Gordon the various seedlings that are being reared in the nursery

REO Gordon inspecting the nursery that the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) has set up in Region 10 no requirement that says that only large spaces can be used for farming, as pots, pans, buckets and even bowls can come in very handy, if one is really serious about gardening; whatever space is available, he said, once organised, can be

importantly, ensuring that what you are consuming is of quality,” he added.

He said that he’s noticed since COVID-19, more and more persons are beginning to see the wisdom of investing in a little kitchen garden of their own, which

shown, and stand ready to lend whatever support that we can to ensure that more persons would start their kitchen gardens.”

FOOD SECURITY Regional Executive Officer (REO) Orrin Gordon

noted that with more persons getting into farming, whether on a small or large-scale basis, that would mean food security in the long-run for Region Ten, and that as such, the Region is prepared to help them with some seedlings, as there is land enough for everyone to get into farming, if they’re serious about doing so.

“There is still a large amount of produce coming into the region,” Gordon said, “and while at the moment we do not grow enough to adequately sustain our residents, I am still of the view that if more persons get into farming

Potable water for Number 65 Village Squatting Area RESIDENTS living in the squatting area aback the Number 65 Village in East Berbice-Corentyne, finally have access to potable water, after decades of using water from the nearby canal for their daily chores.

Earlier this week, the Guyana Water Incorporated. (GWI) installed a standpipe in the community. This was made possible through a collaboration between the Office of The Prime Minister’s representative in Region Six, Gobin Harbhajan, and GWI. After the situation in the lit-

tle-known squatting area was highlighted two weeks ago by the media, the residents were referred to Harbajan who then approached the utility company for assistance.

Harbhajan said that, since the story was highlighted, donors have been coming forward, and he has already received pledges for a large water tank, as well as individual containers for each home to store water.

The approximately 40 families in the area welcomed the installation of the standpipe. Mother of five, Mrs. Bharrat, recalled the years of struggling to get water from the canal and

being fearful of reptiles that inhabit the canal. A visibly relieved Bharrat noted that she could now send her children to collect water while she is occupied with other chores.

Harbhajan thanked GWI and cautioned the residents not to waste the precious resource. He also disclosed that after observing that the children in the community have no access to the internet to do their school work, contact was made with the Ministry of Public Communications and a representative will be visiting soon to assess the situation.

through their kitchen garden, and farming whatever land that they have, that we would no longer require people coming in to sell us food; we can do it on our own, but we must be determined and disciplined.”

Adding his voice to the conversation, Regional Chairman Renis Morian made the point that the notion that farming is for some persons is one that must be expelled from people’s mind, declaring that he continues to grow his own fruits and vegetables, and to dedicate a few hours each day to his kitchen garden.

He said that if persons were to recognise the impor-

tance and benefits of having a kitchen garden, there would be less dependence on external sources for food.

“I still crave, every day, going home, where I would spend some time in my kitchen garden, because the joy comes when I can pick what I would have planted to have it placed in my kitchen,” he said, adding: “We must understand that this situation that we are faced with provides an opportunity for us all to exploit it by planting, and I hope that the appeal of the Agricultural Officer and the REO would be heeded by persons as we move forward.”

GTT offering top-up credit loans as COVID-19 relief THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) announced that it has implemented a number of new LendMe loan offers to assist prepaid mobile customers in staying connected with their families and friends.

GTT’s LendMe is a service where GTT prepaid customers can access top up credit loans.

According to GTT’s PR Manager, Jasmin Harris, the LendMe phone credit loan can be used to access GTT’s standard services, offer, promotions and plans accessible to prepaid GTT customers.

“This is a convenient way for customers to get credit, especially if they are unable to get access to our top up vendors for phone credit, or even if it is after the curfew hours. We are in this together and this is one of the ways we are helping our customers to be safe during this period.

Harris said. To access the GTT LendMe offers, GTT customers can select from the available credit loan amounts by dialing USSD code *100*3*7# and send on their handsets.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Carter Center urges constitutional reform

THE Carter Center said that it is “deeply disappointed” in being excluded from Guyana’s national recount process and believes that “genuine commitment to transparency” is hampered by its absence.

The centre said that while it acknowledges the value of CARICOM and other observers to the process, it feels as if its work, as an accredited observer, has been stymied due to its re-entry restriction to the country.

“The centre acknowledges the important role being played during the recount by the three-person CARICOM team, as well as that of Guyanese national observers, political party scrutineers, the Organisation of American States, and the Commonwealth’s technical adviser, all of whom also are accredited by GECOM. While noting the positive contribution that each of these actors is making to foster transparency, the centre is disappointed that the Government of Guyana chose not to demonstrate a genuine commitment to transparency by ensuring that all duly-accredited organisations, including The Carter Center, be allowed to conduct their work,” the centre stated.

It had plans of fielding a two-member team to the country compared to its over 40-member team present on elections day. Representation was made on their behalf by United States (U.S.) Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch.

Lynch had subsequently stated on a radio programme that she believes “additional credibility” is needed in Guyana’s national recount process, in the form of the Carter Center, so that Guyanese can have “complete confidence” that their elections were free, fair and credible.

However, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings, on the government’s behalf, denied the re-entry of the

centre citing CARICOM as “the most legitimate interlocutors in the Guyana situation” and the COVID-19 pandemic. In its statement, the Carter Center said that that it fully respects Guyana’s national sovereignty and its efforts to strictly implement its COVID-19 emergency measures as a matter of utmost urgency.

It stated that its team members were willing to abide by all of the government’s COVID-19 protocols such as negative tests for COVID-19 on a WHO-certified polymer chain reaction test in advance of travel. Moving forward, the centre hopes the national recount process will maintain its credibility and transparency and will provide for public

confidence and public acceptance of the results.

“The center is hopeful that the recount and tabulation process currently underway will be completed with full transparency so that it yields a result that can be recognised as credible and reflecting the will of the people as expressed on March 2,” it stated. “The centre’s overall assessment of Guyana’s electoral process cannot be complete until the votes cast on March 2 have been counted, tabulated, and announced – and any subsequent dispute-resolution process completed. An accurate and honest counting of votes is essential to ensuring that the election reflects the will of the people.”

To date, the center has issued public statements with preliminary findings of the electoral process through election day and the first few days post-election. It provided a recap of this in its statement noting that preparations for elections day and voting procedures on election day went smoothly and according to national laws and international standards for democratic elections. It noted a subsequent lack of transparency in the tabulation of Region Four Statements of Poll (SoPs) and the eventual decision for a national recount.

Speaking to post-recount, it urged the country’s main political parties to put an end to Guyana’s “winner-takes-all system” through national reconciliation and constitutional reforms. “The Carter Center was honored to be invited by the government to provide a neutral and independent assessment of Guyana’s electoral process,” it stated.

“The Carter Center remains committed to its mandate to observe Guyana’s electoral process and extends its hope that Guyanese can work together in the days ahead to build a future that benefits all citizens.”

Early payment of Old Age Pension THE Guyana Post Office Corporation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Protection, continues to implement systems that seek to protect our senior citizens, and contain the spread of COVID-19, by preventing mass gatherings and practising social distancing.

In this regard, the payment of Old Age Pension for June 2020 will begin on Thursday, May 28, 2020, at all Post Offices countrywide, the GPOC said in a release.

An alphabetical system, using surnames/last names, will be employed for senior citizens to receive their payment

during the first five payment days of the month, at Post Offices in Regions 2,3,4,5,6 and 10.

SENIOR CITIZENS WILL BE PAID AS FOLLOWS: * Surnames/last names beginning with the letters A to D on Thursday, May 28, 2020 * Surnames/last names beginning with the letters E to K on Friday, May 29, 2020 * Surnames/last names beginning with the letters L to P on Monday, June 1, 2020, the third payment day of the month

* Surnames/last names beginning with the letters Q to T on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 * Surnames/last names beginning with the letters U to Z on Wednesday, June 3, 2020 The alphabetical system will only be used during the first five payment days.

Senior citizens will be allowed to cash their coupons on any day after the fifth payment day.

In keeping with the guidelines provided by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the GPOC will continue to enforce a minimum distance of three feet between

individuals accessing service. This measure will limit the number of individuals who can enter the Post Office at any given time.

Persons visiting our offices will be asked to wear protective masks and sanitise their hands before entry. Our public areas will also be sanitised intermittently throughout the day.

GPOC will continue to update its website and social media pages with information during this period. Persons can go to the Corporation’s website at www.guypost.gy, or visit its Facebook page.

One can also follow the Corporation on Instagram and Twitter.

C’tyne man discovered dead at home POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 58-yearold man of Number 49 Village, Corentyne, whose lifeless body was found with a gaping wound in the head on Thursday morning.

Shaheed Ahamad

Ishmail was discovered in front of the doorway of his home by his brother, Fazil, at around 09:45hrs when he went to check up on him and take him some fish.

At the time of discovery, Ahamad, who was diabetic, was reportedly clad in a pair

of blue pants and a blue shirt. Blood was also seen coming from his mouth and ears, and he had a small cut above his left eye.

From initial investigations, he said, it did not appear as if someone had broken into the house, and neither did anything seem

out of place, as everything seemed to be intact. However, as far as money or other valuables were concerned, they could not say if any is missing or not.

He was last seen alive on Tuesday by his sister, who lives a house away, and according to her, he was

on his way to the Skeldon Hospital for his regular check-up, as he’d recently had a few of his toes amputated.

The police and family members are eagearly awaiting the post mortem to determine if his death was due to foul play, or a fall.

Shaheed Ishmail

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

Eid ul Fitr message from President of CIOG

Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Faith and humanity, Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatul ahi Wa Barakaatuh MAY the Peace, Mercy, and Blessing of Allah (SWT) be upon you all!

Eid Mubarak, Eid Mubarak, Eid Mubarak!

On this joyous day of Eid ul Fitr, the Executives and Staff of CIOG join with you in spiritual celebration.

The Holy Quran, which was revealed to our Beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) during the Blessed month of Ramadan, is the source of truth and wisdom: “And We sent down in the Quran such things that have healing and mercy for the believers” (Al-Isra, 17:82) Ramadan was an exercise in patience, discipline, and cleansing. We restrained ourselves physically and mentally, and subdued our egos, in order to get closer to Allah (SWT). We devoted ourselves to various forms of Ibadaat (worship) and prayed for forgiveness, mercy, and healing for the entire world.

Congratulations for having fulfilled the honorable obligation of fasting in the Holy month of Ramadan. Now comes the time of celebration, reflection and gratitude.

In our celebration, let us not forget our less fortunate brothers and sisters who face difficulties and hardship, those facing the challenges of illness, hunger, and despair.

Open your hearts, reach out, find ways to help, be a good example. Let us comfort and sustain others, while filling them with hope and reminding them that Allah (SWT) is Gracious and Merciful.

Today does not herald the end of worship.

On the contrary, it heralds a new beginning of heightened Taqwa (piety) for the believers who sacrificed a lot during Ramadan and are ready to transform their lives as a result.

O servants of the Most Merciful, this is the reason for joy and celebration today. The fast of Ramadan reminded us about the pangs of hunger and thirst and Eid ul Fitr reminds us of the value of selflessness, goodwill, and community.

Muslims have a moral responsibility to work towards uniting the peoples of our country by promoting peace and harmony. This noble act attracts tremendous blessings from the creator and is beneficial to the creation.

‘And who is better in speech than the one who calls [his brethren] unto Allah, and does what is just and right, and says, “Verily, I am of those who have surrendered themselves to Allah”’ (Al Quran, 41:33) As we celebrate the Eid festival virtually, let us embrace our brothers and sisters in faith as well as our brothers and sisters in

humanity. It is our duty to promote the core Islamic values of peaceful co-existence, tolerance, and service to others. Let us nurture harmonious relationships among our families, communities, and our nation. This will allow us to reap material benefits grounded in spiritual and ethical values. This is the foundation of Islam.

Protecting each other is a religious obligation. It would be remiss if I do not reflect on the current health crisis due to COVID-19, a pandemic which has gripped our world.

While we observe the rules laid out by Health officials, we should use this time of social and physical distancing to reflect on the fragility of life. What is it that is really important to us? As the earth goes into reset mode, displaying evidence of reduced pollution and less stress on the environment, so too must we reset our views on what is important in our lives. Family, friends, neighbors, associates, and employees all make up the fabric of our lives - the question is, are we leaving a positive and lasting impression on others? Are we a medium of hope and mercy for people? Are we fulfilling the roles we were placed on earth to perform with integrity, kindness, justice and compassion for all, even the animals?

These questions we answer for ourselves.

With the permission of Allah (SWT), this crisis will end, but we must never forget those who who risked their lives on the frontlines to protect us and put themselves at the forefront of protecting us - the physicians, nurses, and other critical care workers – as well as those who ensured our food supply – the farmers, shippers, truckers, and store personnel. These are the courageous agents of mercy; so please pray for them.

May Allah (SWT) Bless and have Mercy on us all. May Allah (SWT) Bless and have Mercy on our country and the entire world.

We beseech Allah (SWT) to accept all our good deeds and forgive our shortcomings.

May Allah (SWT) graciously grant us His Help, Guidance and Healing. (Ameen).

I close with the pillar of reliance of trust in Allah (SWT): Hasbunnallah Wa Ni’ Mal Wakeel.

Allah (SWT) is sufficient for us; and how excellent a guardian is He! WASSALAAMU ALAIKUM WA RAHMATULLAAHI WABARAKAATUHU! And may the Peace, Mercy and Blessings of God be with you.

Al-Hajj Shahabudeen Ahmad President CIOG

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, May 23, 2020

19

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 23, 2020

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (SATURDAY MAY 23, 2020)

COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK - STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) &CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz (1) Jos Butler-150 (Grenada, 2019)

(2) Viv

Richards-189* (Manchester, 1984) Today’s Quiz:

(1) ) Who is the first English player to take a One Day

International hattrick?

(2) Who is the first WI player to claim a hattrick in an ODI game?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue FROM PAGE 23

Guyana reap...

“This has severely impacted the growth and de-

velopment of the game at club and community level.

However, despite these fundamental challenges, the female game remains most popular throughout our hinterland regions and is played spiritedly, year-round, by our indigenous tribes, where countless talented national team players have been discovered over the years.”

There are more opportunities ahead for a clearly ambitious GFF. Guyana have qualified for this year’s CONCACAF U-17 Women’s Championship where three tickets to India will be up for grabs.

“The recent performance of the U-20 women’s team was a watershed moment for the country, signalling to the powerhouses of CONCACAF that Guyana had arrived,” Greenwood added.

“They represented the spirit of the Golden Arrowhead (Guyana’s National Flag) with heart, determination and self-belief throughout the competition.

“The success of the team really caught the imagination of the general public in Guyana, which was fantastic for the football brand in a nation better known for its cricket.

The team’s performances inspired a lot of young girls to get involved in football and showcased what we can do with the right approach.

“We believe that the gap between the traditional big nations and the smaller nations is closing within our confederation.

“We have key ambitions to move up the FIFA/ Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking and our flagship goals are attaining FIFA top-60 ranking, CONCACAF top-10 ranking, CFU top-5 ranking, senior team Olympic qualification in 2024, and the ultimate target of World Cup qualification in 2027.” (FIFA.COM)

20

Premier league confident of June restart

(REUTERS) - THE Premier League is “as confident as we can be” about England’s top-flight soccer league restarting in June, its chief executive Richard Masters was quoted by the BBC yesterday.

The Premier League has been suspended since March 13 amid the COVID-19 crisis and June 12 has been identified as a possible date to restart. Players returned to training in small groups this week.

Among the top European leagues only the Bundesliga has resumed.

“We’ve taken the first step,” Masters told BBC Sport.

“It’s great for everybody, including the fans, to see our players back on the training ground.”

Masters said that the Premier League remains flexible on the date of resumption, contingency plans were needed and “curtailment” was still an option.

“We wouldn’t have taken the first step to get back to training if we weren’t convinced we had created a very safe environment for our players,” he said.

“It is the first step and we have to be sure when we go to contact training we have completed those processes.

“We have done everything we possibly can to make return to training as safe as possible,” he added.

“We think it is safe to return. We have to respect players’ decisions not to return to training. I would be comfortable to return to training.”

Liverpool are top of the table with a 25-point lead over Manchester City.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said on Wednesday that the return of contact training in elite sports could get government approval “later this week”.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 23, 2020

ICC outlines ‘new look’ cricket (ESPNCRICINFO) - PLAYERS and umpires will need to keep “social distancing” norms on and off the field.

Players will not hand over personal items such as caps, sunglasses and sweaters to the umpires anymore.

Players should use a hand sanitiser regularly once they have had contact with the ball. Umpires should consider wearing gloves to handle the ball.

These are some of the important dos listed by the ICC as guidelines for when international cricket resumes after being forced to halt in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yesterday the ICC issued a document titled ‘Guidelines on return to cricket’ that encompasses international, domestic and community cricket. The ICC emphasised that these guidelines would need to work in synergy with government directives in individual countries on resumption of the sport.

SOCIAL DISTANCE AT ALL TIMES “Players and umpires should maintain social distancing on the cricket field and that includes no handing-over of player items (cap, towels, sunglasses, jumpers) to the umpire or teammates,” the ICC said.

“Consider adopting a process that will assist the bowler in managing his/her items. Umpires may also be encouraged to use gloves when handling the ball.”

Social distancing, the ICC said, would need to be followed even during

training where players will need to keep a 1.5 metre (or what the government in the country recommends) distance between one another. Players have also been asked to come in training gear and told to use change rooms sparingly.

The ICC also said “celebrations with body contact” along with sharing drinks or drink bottles, towels and equipment could “pose a risk” and hence should be “strongly discouraged”.

BALL - A ‘POTENTIAL’ CARRIER OF VIRUS The ICC also reiterated the recommendation of the ICC Cricket Committee that no saliva should be applied on the ball. The Committee this week recommended that only sweat should be applied to shine the ball and not saliva or any artificial substance. Despite cricket not being a contact sport, the ICC said there were “several risks”.

The ball, the ICC said, “is a potential transmission medium” and there had to be “rules” governing the “management” of the ball. “Provide players with clear guidance on the safe management of the ball. This will include regular hand-sanitising when in contact with the ball; do not touch eyes, nose, and mouth after making contact with the ball; saliva should not be used on the ball.”

WHAT IF A PLAYER TESTS POSITIVE? Although it did not expand on what would happen to an ongoing match in

case a player, match official or support staff member was infected by the coronavirus, the ICC said everyone in the environment would need to be tested.

Cricket requires players to be in close proximity at times and involves the use of shared facilities. Therefore, should a team member or opponent develop any COVID-19 symptoms or be found to develop an infection, participants will require isolation and testing as they are most likely to have been in close contact.”

MATCH OFFICIALS ‘VULNERABLE’ Saying that those over 60 years old were the most “vulnerable” to suffer due to the pandemic, the ICC singled out match officials - umpires and match referees - along with support staff members in that category.

“Participants, in particular umpires, match referees and support staff may be considered vulnerable individuals that are at higher risk of severe illness due to COVID-19. This includes older individuals (approx. 60+) and people of any age with underlying medical conditions such as cardiac, kidney, diabetes, obesity, weak innate immunity, etc.

Cricket is officiated by umpires on the field of play and their health and well-being need to be taken into full consideration as they spend the greatest amount of time in close proximity to players.

F1 hopeful of Silverstone in July and August

(REUTERS) - FORMULA One remains hopeful about the chances of racing at Britain’s Silverstone circuit in July and August despite quarantine measures confirmed yesterday.

Interior Minister Priti Patel said a 14-day quarantine will be introduced from June 8 for travellers arriving from abroad, to guard against a resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

No exemptions for sport were mentioned, with soccer clubs competing in Europe also potentially affected, but a Formula One spokesman and Silverstone manager Stuart Pringle said talks were continuing.

“We have been working closely with government on the implications of the policy for Formula One and Silverstone,” said the spokesman.

“Those discussions are ongoing at this time with the aim of finding a solution with safety as our first priority.”

Pringle told Sky Sports television that he was hopeful of a solution.

“I am very clear that the importance of the industry is

Cars stand in Parc ferme in the pit lane after the British F1 Grand Prix at Silverstone Circuit on July 8, 2018 in Northampton, England. (Photo by Leo Mason/Popperfoto via Getty Images)

understood by government,” he said.

“So I remain optimistic that a sensible and pragmatic solution, which puts the onus on the sport quite rightly to come up with the right solution, can be found.”

Formula One’s season has yet to start, with three races cancelled - including the showcase Monaco Grand Prix

that would have been held this weekend - and seven others postponed.

The sport hopes to get going in Austria in carefully controlled conditions, and using charter flights, with back-toback races on July 5 and 12 before two more at Silverstone likely on July 26 and August 2.

While seven of the 10 teams are based in Britain, a

two-week quarantine would pose problems for Italy-based Ferrari and AlphaTauri as well as Alfa Romeo, whose team operate out of Switzerland.

Quarantine would also make it hard for teams to come and go on a tight schedule.

Pringle said Silverstone, a home race for Mercedes’ sixtime world champion Lewis Hamilton and this year celebrating the 70th anniversary of hosting the first world championship race, had flexibility, but Formula One needed to be sure of movement.

“We can accommodate later dates in August if required, possibly even into September conceptually,” he said.

“But it’s not so much about what we can accommodate ... it’s can the championship piece together a calendar that allows them to go from country to country?

“And can they have the confidence to commit to that in a timescale that allows the freighting plan to come together because it’s the logistics that are the key to getting this championship underway.”

21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 23, 2020

West Indies Women begin head coach search (CMC) – CRICKET West Indies (CWI) has begun its search for a permanent head coach to oversee the embattled senior women side and halt a troubling run of results.

Former Test player Gus Logie was named interim coach last October, replacing Barbadian Henderson Springer but suffered series losses to India in both white-ball formats last November, before watching the side tumble out of last February’s T20 World Cup at the preliminary stage.

CWI director of cricket, Jimmy

Adams, said yesterday the new head coach would be expected to improve results.

“Following the recently concluded Women’s T20 World Cup, we have now begun the recruitment process for finding a permanent women’s team head coach,” Adams said.

“The successful candidate will be expected to drive our women’s programme forward and improve our results across both formats.

“We are grateful for the efforts of interim head coach, Gus Logie,

who has led the squad during this transition period and will continue in his interim role until the process has concluded.”

According to CWI, the new head coach would be tasked with ensuring consistent performances in both formats and achieving “superior match results and top placement in all ICC competitions”.

Further, the successful candidate will be expected to employ “well-structured and progressive coaching programmes” along with

“implementing tactical initiatives” in order to get “maximum output” from the players.

Applicants will require an accredited Level Three coaching certification and must be West Indian, in keeping with CWI’s recent ‘West Indies First’ policy.

West Indies Women have struggled badly ever since winning the T20 World Cup in India four years ago, winning just four of 10 T20 series. Last year they managed only five wins in 17 matches.

They reached the semi-finals of

the 2018 T20 World Cup staged in the Caribbean before bowing out.

Their One-Day International form has also waned considerably.

They won just two of seven matches at the 2017 World Cup in England to miss out on the semi-finals and since then have won only three of 17 outings.

In the vital Women’s Championship, a qualifier for next year’s World Cup in New Zealand, West Indies ended seventh of eight teams to miss out on an automatic spot at the showpiece.

Cambridge United release midfielder Lambe (CMC) – MIDFIELDER Reggie Lambe, a former Bermuda captain, is looking for a new club after being released by English League Two club Cambridge United.

Lambe, 29, who joined Cambridge in 2018 on a two-year deal, is one of nine out-of-contract players being released at Abbey Stadium this summer.

Lambe joined Cambridge after two seasons at Carlisle

United following two seasons at League Two rivals Mansfield Town.

Earlier, Lambe had spells with Ipswich Town, now an English League One side, where he began his professional career, and in Toronto’s Major League Soccer and Nykopings in the third tier of Swedish football.

Meanwhile, fellow Bermudian Jonté Smith’s future at League Two outfit Cheltenham Town is also up in

the air.

Smith, a 25-year-old striker, will be a free agent from June 30.

Manager Michael Duff said he was currently “not in a position” to offer new deals to the club’s 11 out-ofcontract players, including Smith, the son of former Bermuda national cricket coach Clay Smith.

Duff said: “I don’t know what my budget will be or what division we will be in so

I am not in a position to offer people anything.

“I feel for the players as they want to know.”

League Two clubs have unanimously expressed their wish to end the regular season with nine or 10 matches left owing to the coronavirus pandemic. Cambridge United were in 16th place.

But Cheltenham, Northampton Town, Exeter City and Colchester United are still in line for a place in

Reggie Lambe

League One as the English Football League still hopes to stage the regular end-ofseason play-offs.

The semi-finals are planned to take place behind closed doors over two legs at the clubs’ grounds with a

final to follow.

Crewe Alexandra, Swindon Town and Plymouth Argyle filled the top three spots when play was halted and are expected to win automatic promotion to League One.

Osaka world’s highest paid female athlete

(REUTERS) - Japan’s Naomi Osaka has surpassed Serena Williams as the world’s highest-paid female athlete, raking in $37.4M in prize money and endorsements over the last year, according to Forbes.

The 22-year-old twice Grand Slam champion’s total is the most ever earned by a female athlete in a 12-month period.

She earned $1.4M more than American great Williams who had topped the list for the last four years.

Maria Sharapova had held the record for 12-month earnings for a female athlete, having made $29.7M in 2015.

Female tennis players have always occupied top spot on Forbes’ women’s list since 1990 with either Williams or Russian Sharapova leading the way from 2004.

Osaka burst into the limelight by beating Williams in the 2018 U.S. Open final - a highly-controversial match in which Williams was given three code violations by the umpire.

The Japanese then won the next Grand Slam, the 2019 Australian Open, although her form has dipped since and she has fallen from world number one to 10th on the WTA rankings.

Florida-based Osaka’s mixed heritage - she has a Japanese mother and Haitian-American father - her engaging personality and attacking style of play have combined to make her one of the world’s most marketable athletes.

Part of the stable of management group IMG, Osaka currently has 15 sponsorship deals, including with global brands such as Nike, Nissan Motors, Shiseido and Yonex.

Naomi Osaka of Japan speaks to the media ahead of the 2020 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 23, 2020

Notable events on this day in Sports Mike Tyson takes questions during a press conference at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas ahead of his WBA heavyweight title rematch against Evander Holyfield. (REUTERS/Stringer)

May 23, 1997 BOXING - Mike Tyson takes questions during a press conference at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas ahead of his WBA heavyweight title rematch against Evander Holyfield.

Tyson lost to Holyfield in 1996 when the referee stopped the fight in the 11th round to give the latter his third heavyweight championship and the rematch was scheduled for June 28.

In the second fight Tyson bit Holyfield’s ear twice, tearing off a piece of cartilage and spitting it out, to earn a disqualification while he also had his boxing licence revoked.

May 23, 1998 MOTOR RACING - Germany’s Michael Schumacher poses next to his Ferrari during qualifying for the Monaco Grand Prix in Monte Carlo.

Schumacher qualified fourth but multiple collisions during the race dropped him down to 10th, while McLaren-Mercedes’ Mika Hakkinen took the victory.

Schumacher won six races that season but finished second in the drivers’ championship, 14 points behind Hakkinen who took home his maiden title.

May 23, 1999 CRICKET - Pakistan captain Wasim Akram celebrates after his side beat Australia in the group stage of the World Cup to put one foot in the Super Six stage.

Akram picked up four wickets to ensure Pakistan won the match by 10 runs and they eventually topped the group to qualify along with Australia and New Zealand.

Pakistan reached the final that year to face the same opposition but were beaten by Australia, who won the match by eight wickets to lift the first of their three consecutive World Cup titles.

diola is tossed by players during celebrations of the Spanish La Liga title triumph at Camp Nou stadium.

Barcelona were gifted their 19th league title without kicking a ball on May 16 when second-placed Real Madrid were beaten 3-2 at Villarreal. Earlier in the month, Barcelona won the Copa del Rey for their first trophy under Guardiola, defeating Athletic Bilbao by 4–1.

Barca went on to become the first Spanish side in history to clinch the treble after defeating Manchester United 2-0 in the Champions League final.

May 23, 2001

May 23, 2010

SOCCER - Bayern Munich goalkeeper Oliver Kahn celebrates winning the Champions League after a penalty shootout against Valencia at the San Siro stadium, Milan.

Valencia midfielder Gaizka Mendieta opened the scoring before Stefan Effenburg levelled proceedings. The two sides could not be separated after extra time, sending the game into a shootout.

Kahn made the winning save in sudden death, denying Mauricio Pellegrino, to give Bayern their fourth Champions League title.

BULLFIGHTING - Two bulls fight in the Granice village near Busovaca, about 80km from the capital Sarajevo as thousands of Bosnians gather to watch in a tradition that dates back over 200 years.

Bullfighting in Bosnia differs from Spain’s bloody corrida de toros as it does not directly involve humans and the bulls are not killed at the end.

In improvised rings or open fields, the bulls, which are often named after celebrities such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and even Vladimir Putin, lock horns, push and joust until one turns and leaves.

May 23, 2009 SOCCER - Barcelona coach Pep Guar-

May 23, 2013 SOCCER - Martina Muller’s second-half penalty proved the difference as Wolfsburg beat two-time winners Lyon 1-0 to lift the trophy for the first time.

Victory at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge stadium meant Wolfsburg completed a historic treble after claiming the domestic league and cup titles earlier in the month.

May 23, 2015 SOCCER - Barcelona’s Xavi Hernandez applauds the Camp Nou crowd after a 2-2 draw against Deportivo La Coruna in his final home game.

The former Spain international won 25 trophies in 17 seasons with Barca, making a record 767 appearances.

He left his boyhood club to join Al Sadd in 2015 and remained with the Qatari team for four years before being appointed their manager in 2019.

May 23, 2015 ATHLETICS - A participant runs through coloured powder in the five-kilometre ‘Get Rainbowed’ race in Prague, Czech Republic.

‘Get Rainbowed’ is a family run that promotes the idea of a healthy lifestyle. The course has five colour zones and is lined with sprayers who cover runners with brightly coloured powder.

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 23, 2020

Compound Archer Winnette Lawrence represents Guyana in first Online Archery Competition

AMIDST the COVID-19 lockdown, archers from around the world recently got together and competed in a novel Virtual Online Archery Competition.

Archery Guyana, in a release, announced that in its 7th stage held on Sunday, May 17, Archery Guyana member, Winnette Lawrence, competed as the first Compound Archer to represent Guyana internationally in Archery.

The competition which comprised over 1 200 participants in various categories from all around the world, spanned over three sessions because of the space limitation and also to allow for the time differences in the 22 countries

participating in the Compound Archery category.

Lawrence, in addition to 16 others, contested in Session 3 of the competition which included representation from countries such as Belgium, Russia, France, USA, Pakistan, Finland, Trinidad, Australia, Philippines, Ireland, BVI, Indonesia, South Africa, Great Britain, Brazil, Spain, Greece and Norway.

Competing from a remote location Virgin Islands where she’s based, Lawrence faced 12 other competitors at the distance of 30 metres, coming in 9th out of 13, while scoring 652 out of 720.

Lawrence, according to

Archery Guyana explained that “registration had to be done online and we had to choose which session we would shoot, and distance. Because of lockdown some persons had to scale down their target face to suit a distance. For inspection of the bows we had to take a picture of it as well as the target face and send online.

“They also sent a QR code for you to log on and send scores; after every end we had to send a picture of arrows in target for scoring. I shot a 2019 Hoyt prevail compound bow 40-50 lb. with 600 spine McKinney 11 arrows.”

The competition is ongoing and now entering its 8th stage.

Guyana reap rich rewards for investment THERE was a new name in the mix for FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualification earlier this year, as Guyana reached the latter stages of a lengthy CONCACAF campaign.

Although a member of CONCACAF, Guyana is situated at the northern end of the South American mainland and is the only English-speaking nation on the continental landmass.

Guyana’s football pedigree at international level has, in truth, been modest since gaining independence in 1966.

Progressing to the penultimate stage of 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil qualifying remains a standout achievement.

But it is in women’s football where Guyanese investment over the past few years is starting to yield tangible rewards. The national side - the Lady Jags – qualified for the eight-nation 2010 CONCACAF Women’s Championship to provide an early insight into their potential.

More recently, the U-20 side won an unprecedented six straight matches en route to the quarter-finals of the continental championship, falling just one step short of what would normally be the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualification round. Their charge was ended only by a strong Haiti side and their free-scoring forward Melchie Dumornay, with the Caribbean nation impressing

in their maiden U-20 Women’s World Cup appearance at France 2018.

The start of Guyana’s progression dates back some four years with the arrival of current Technical Director Ian Greenwood, and the national roll-out

of a female-targeted grassroots campaign. Soon after came Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) first Women’s Development Officer, Tricia Munroe, such appointment being a central part of a national football development strategy.

2018 proved to be even more significant with a women’s national league held and the international senior women’s programme re-launched.

The nation also hosted matches in qualifiers for the CONCACAF Women’s Championship.

Guyana Women’s U-20 team (Photo compliments: CONCACAF)

“This success is no accident,” Greenwood told FIFA. com about the U-20 team’s achievements. “It is clear evidence that the GFF’s national football philosophy and robust youth development strategy are producing top-class performers

and coaches. The GFF ATC (Academy Training Centres) programme is regarded by FIFA/CONCACAF as a model of best practice for a youth development structure within the Caribbean region.

“We have a national playing and coaching philosophy, which is implemented across all national teams, combined with an age-specific coaching curriculum.

Coach education has reached new heights since 2016 with a record number of licensed coaches and instructors in Guyana. This new workforce of talented grassroots coaches is continually unearthing and nurturing new female talent.

“Through Guyanese migration, we have a unique situation, which means we have a large talent pool abroad to select from, based in Canada, USA and the UK. These players significantly strengthen the group due to playing in stronger leagues.”

Harnessing latent talent in a modest population of some 800 000 remains a challenge for the nation’s football leadership.

“The country remains relatively underdeveloped, infrastructurally, resulting in most football venues having very little or no changing room or washroom facilities readily available for female players,” GFF president Wayne Forde told FIFA.com.

Turn to Page 19

Guyana’s female footballers celebrate during their CONCACAF U-20 Championship campaign. (Photo compliments: CONCACAF)

See story on page 23

Guyana reap rich rewards for investment See story on page 21 West Indies Women have endured a poor run of results in both formats.

West Indies Women begin head coach search Ball management will be a key part of cricket in the post COVID-19 era, but umpires may be wearing gloves to do it. (Getty Images)

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