Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_31_07_2020

FRIDAY 31st July, 2020

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Happy Eid-ul-Adha

No.106077

Guyana rakes in US$3.6M in royalty …in second payment for oil and gas

SEE PAGE 15

Court of Appeal upholds CJ ruling …grants 24-hour stay 05 PAGE

Coalition firm on valid votes for

declaration

…expresses disappointment with Court of Appeal ruling

$1.6B COVID-19 hospital opened …to ensure improved quality of service, infrastructure in COVID-19 fight

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President David Granger unveils the plaque for the new Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, as Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan (second from left); Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence (second from right); Resident PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow, and other officials look on (Elvin Croker photo)

President recommits to abiding by 10 GECOM declaration PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

$1.6B COVID-19 hospital opened …to ensure improved quality of service, infrastructure in COVID-19 fight

By Navendra Seoraj GUYANA has taken a major leap in the fight against the dreaded novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, with the commissioning of its new Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, at the site of the former Ocean View Hotel.

This “leap” is expected to radically improve the quality of service and infrastructure for patients and staff, as the country continues to battle COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, which may arise in the future.

The situation in Guyana is still evolving. And, according to recent statistics, the country recorded 44 new cases between July 25 and July 28, 2020, a span of just three days. Authorities have recorded 401 cases to date.

“Today, life on earth is confronted with one of humanity’s gravest health challenges for more than one hundred years. The COVID-19 pandemic – an event which no country anticipated and for which few could pretend to have been adequately prepared – has brought the death and disease completely unanticipated to millions of persons in every continent,” lamented President David Granger, as he addressed a small gathering at the opening ceremony of the facility, on Thursday.

He said the A Partnership for National Unit and Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government’s objective of universal healthcare is all the more important given the present situation.

The global pandemic has tested public health systems everywhere. The new reality requires that public health systems increase and strengthen their capacity to address sudden and unexpected outbreaks of communicable diseases by providing more hospital beds, improved protective gear for medical personnel, better communicable diseases surveillance and specialised hospitals, such as this institution, devoted exclusively to infectious diseases.

To this end, President Granger said: “The establishment of this infectious diseases’ hospital represents an essential and urgent investment in safeguarding our people’s health, not just against the coronavirus pandemic, but also against future communicable epidemics.”

This facility, which was rehabilitated and built at a cost of $1.6B billion, is seen

From right, President David Granger; Finance Minister, Winston Jordan; Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health, Colette Adams; Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud; and Resident PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow cut the ceremonial ribbon to declare open, the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (Elvin Croker photo)

seemed distant at first, but it reached Guyana on March 11. And, with it, came immediate challenges such as the need for surveillance, contact tracing, isolation and quarantine facilities and equipment.

“There were myriad of unknowns about the highly-infectious disease, particularly symptoms, protec-

President David Granger and other officials touring the new centre for disease prevention and control (Elvin Croker photo)

as an essential element of the emergency response.

Government recognised the urgency of having an institution which could be dedicated exclusively to providing treatment to coronavirus patients. And, according to the President Granger, the model which was developed in the “early days” of the pandemic required Guyana to have the capacity and the capability to achieve accommodation of 197 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients at any one time.

He, therefore, believes that the infectious diseases hospital is strategic, as it will be used primarily for COVID-19 patients but, eventually, will become a fully-specialised communicable disease hospital.

“It is an important step forward towards protecting

our people from epidemic disease. It is always preferable for infectious patients to be isolated away from the general hospital population so as to reduce the risk of transmission and to ensure a better environment for treatment and recuperation,” said the President.

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, also spoke about the importance of the new facility, noting that it indicates a change in trajectory of how Guyana will address outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics.

She reminded persons that this is not the first, local specialised institution, but noted that it reflects the will and resolve of the government to be proactive rather than reactive.

Minister Lawrence admitted that COVID-19 had

tive measures…there was even much speculation about COVID-19, and there is still much speculation about COVID-19,” said the minister.

The country, however, quickly realised that it lacked capacity, having limited hospitals and one national referral hospital, the Georgetown

Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), to cater for all services.

The GPHC, which has the country’s only COVID-19 ICU, has 500 beds and an occupancy rate of 99 per cent.

The other district hospitals account for the remaining 64 per cent of beds, but only provide basic inpatient services.

“This situational assessment left us in a quandary, as there were challenges in the capacity and other areas…it was as such deemed necessary for the country to have a designated facility for any surges in patient load, caused by COVID-19,” said Minister Lawrence.

The new facility, as such, serves as the first all-inclusive infectious diseases facility which the public health ministry envisages, will remove the constraints from GPHC and the regional and district hospitals.

The new facility has the capacity for 190 beds and will have a staff complement of 200 persons. It also caters for laboratories, a pharmacy, an ICU, an operation theatre and even a mortuary. A section of the facility will also house the Health Emergency Operations Centre (HEOC), a surveillance centre, a research centre and administrative offices.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Republicans to Trump: You can't delay 2020 election

(BBC) Top Republicans have rejected Donald Trump's suggestion that November's presidential election should be delayed over alleged fraud concerns.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy both dismissed the idea.

Mr Trump does not have the authority to postpone the election. Any delay would have to be approved by Congress.

Earlier, the president suggested that increased postal voting could lead to fraud and inaccurate results.

He floated a delay un-

til people could "properly, securely and safely" vote.

There is little evidence to support Mr Trump's claims but he has long railed against mail-in voting, which he has said would be susceptible to fraud.

US states want to make postal voting easier due to public health concerns over the coronavirus pandemic.

Mr Trump's intervention came as new figures showed the US economy contracted by nearly a third (32.9%) between April and June the worst contraction since the Great Depression of the 1930s.

How have Republicans reacted?

The president suggested postal voting could lead to fraud and inaccurate results

Senator McConnell said no US presidential election had ever been delayed before.

"Never in the history of this country, through wars,

depressions and the Civil War, have we ever not had a federally scheduled election on time. We will find a way to do that again this Novem-

ber third," he told local Kentucky station WNKY. Mr McCarthy echoed him. "Never in the history of the federal elections have we ever not held an election and we should go forward with our election," he said.

Trump ally Senator Lindsay Graham meanwhile said a delay was "not a good idea".

However, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo refused to be drawn on Mr Trump's suggestion. Quizzed by reporters on whether a president could delay an election, he said he would not "enter a legal judgement on the fly".

When pressed, he said the justice department would "make that legal determi-

nation", adding "we want an election that everyone is confident in".

The spokesman for Mr Trump's re-election campaign, Hogan Gidley, said Mr Trump had just been "raising a question". But Ari Fleischer, who was press secretary under Republican President George W Bush said Mr Trump should delete his tweet.

"This is not an idea anyone, especially POTUS [the president of the United States], should float," he said. "Mr President - please don't even pretend to mess with this. It's a harmful idea."

Herman Cain, US ex-presidential candidate, dies after contracting Covid (BBC) Herman Cain, the Republican pizza chain CEO who ran for president in 2012, has died after contracting Covid-19.

Mr Cain, 74, was hospitalised after being diagnosed

with the disease earlier this month.

"Herman Cain - our boss, our friend, like a father to so many of us - has passed away," a message posted on his official website said.

Friday July 31, 2020 –– 02:30hrs & 14:30hrs

He was a supporter of President Trump and is one of the most high-profile Americans to die with the virus.

His social media accounts had been providing regular updates on his condition. On 7 July, a post from his Twitter account said "doctors are trying to make sure his oxygen levels are right".

"This is a tough virus," it said. "Please continue praying."

Who was Herman Cain?

Born in Tennessee to a janitor and a cleaner, Mr Cain went on to study for a degree in maths and a master's in computing.

He worked variously as a Baptist minister, a radio talk show host and as a busi-

nessman.

Mr Cain was an advocate of a flat tax system and ran for office after a stint as CEO of Godfather's Pizza.

During his run, he told reporters he would not stand for any "gotcha questions".

"And when they ask me who is the president of Ubekibeki-beki-beki-stan-stan, I'm going to say you know, I don't know. Do you know?"

He initially proved popular, but later found himself at the centre of a number of sexual harassment allegations.

Although he denied the accusations against him, his popularity soon suffered and he suspended his campaign.

Mitt Romney later became the Republican candidate in

an unsuccessful race against President Barack Obama's bid for a second term in office.

In 2019, Mr Trump sounded him out to sit on the Federal Reserve Board, but he withdrew his nomination after several Republican senators refused to back his appointment.

However, Mr Cain continued to back Mr Trump and appeared at a rally held by the president in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on 20 June.

He was admitted to hospital after contacting coronavirus on 1 July.

Mitt Romney has been among those paying tribute to Mr Cain.

"Saddened that Herman Cain - a formidable champion of business, politics and policy - has lost his battle with Covid," he wrote on Twitter.

Former employee Dan

Calabrese also praised Mr Cain's legacy.

"Most people heard of Herman for the first time when he ran for president in 2011. What they didn't know was his business background," he wrote on Mr Cain's official website.

"They didn't know how he had started his career as a civilian employee of the Navy. It was funny to us because sometimes political pundits portrayed him as kind of a goof - having no idea that during his time working for the Navy, he was literally a rocket scientist."

Mr Cain had enjoyed good health in recent years, Mr Calabrese wrote, but added that a previous diagnosis with cancer meant "he was still in a high-risk group" in the current pandemic.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Court of Appeal upholds CJ ruling … grants 24-hour stay

By Svetlana Marshall

IN a unanimous decision on Thursday, the Court of Appeal, in upholding the judgment of the High Court, ruled that there can be no challenge to the legality of the National Recount or the decision of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to set aside the 10 Declarations made in March, outside of an Elections Petition; and as such, it dismissed the appeal filed

by Misenga Jones.

The ruling was handed down by a panel of three judges led by Justice of Appeal Dawn Gregory. The other judges were Justice of Appeal, Rishi Persaud and High Court Judge, Priya Beharry. Jones, in her appeal, had challenged Chief Justice (ag), Roxane George-Wiltshire’s decision to uphold the national recount, arguing that Section 22 of the Election Laws (Amendment) Act and by extension the Recount Order (Order 60) were unconstitutional, and on that basis the Elections Commission was constitutionally bound to declare the results of the General and Regional Elections based on the 10 Declarations made by the Returning Officers (ROs) in March.

The Chief Justice had ruled that the majority of issues in the FDA filed by Jones were res judicata, and any challenge to the constitutionality of Section 22 and by extension the Recount Order ought to come by way of an Elections Petition. Dissatisfied with the decision, Jones moved to the Appellate Court.

The Tucville, Georgetown voter had resorted to the High Court following a decision by Chairman of the Elections Commission, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh to invalidate the 10 Declarations made by the Returning Officers , so as to pave way for the Certificates of Recount to be used in the Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield’s Elections Report.

The Court of Appeal, however, dismissed the application filed by Jones, and in doing so, ruled that the results of the General and Regional Elections must be

declared using valid votes tabulated during the national recount.

“Order 60 was created from the powers exercised under Section 22 of the Elections Law (Amendment) Act. The Order can only be deemed unconstitutional at an Elections Court, in the same way as the constitutionality of Section 22 itself,” Justice Gregory ruled.

That position, Justice Gregory said, was fortified by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in the case – Bharrat Jagdeo and Irfaan Ali v Eslyn David and Others – when it ruled that Order 60 forms part of the electoral laws of Guyana, and must be adhered to.

Through a battery of Lawyers led by Senior Counsel John Jeremie, Jones had argued that the procedure employed during the national recount was not in conformity with the Representation of the People Act but Justice Gregory ruled that challenges to the legality of the procedures employed during the recount and or to the decision of GECOM to set aside the 10 Declarations made in March, must come by way of an Elections Petition in accordance with Article 163 of the Constitution.

JURISDICTION From the onset, Justice Beharry indicated that the High Court had no jurisdiction to determine the constitutionality of Section 22 of the Election Law (Amendment) Act, the legality of the Recount Order (Order 60), or the lawfulness of the actions of the Elections Commission as sought in the Fixed Date Application (FDA) filed by Jones. In doing so, she referenced to the provisions of Section 140 (1) of the Representation of the People Act and Article 163 of the Constitution.

“In summary, these provisions seem to be saying that the court’s ordinary supervisory jurisdiction is ousted from inquiry into whether GECOM and or its members have validly performed its functions or not, except under the exclusive jurisdiction conferred by

Article 163 of the Constitution. It does not completely ousts the court’s jurisdiction but provides jurisdiction by special procedure in the form of an Elections Petition after the elections have been declared,” the High Court Judge explained.

Justice Beharry was keen on noting that the case of Reeaz Holladar v the Region Four Returning Officer and others in the High Court was rightly subject to judicial review because it did not touch on the validity of the elections rather the Returning Officer’s compliance with the Representation of the People Act. Further, she noted that Returning Officers do not enjoy the protection of Section 140 of the Representation of the People Act. The case brought by Jones, she posited, was vastly different.

“In this regard, I find that the Chief Justice had no jurisdiction to interpret the constitutionality of Section 22 of the Election Laws (Amendment) Act, Order 60 or Article 177 of the Constitution to determine whether GECOM was acting lawfully, as this runs contrary to the jurisprudence as demonstrated by the CCJ’s ruling in Ali and Jagdeo, that those issues properly belong in an elections petition after the declaration of the final results,” Justice Beharry ruled.

CEO MUST ABIDE WITH THE ORDERS OF GECOM However, with respect to the impasse between the Chairman of the Elections Commission, and the Chief Elections Officer, Justice Beharry said that the jurisdiction of the Chief Justice was not ousted by Section 140 of the Representation of the People Act since the primary issue is linked to the CEO’s compliance with his statutory functions and not the validity of the elections.

In laying the foundation of her ruling, the High Court Judge said the Chief Elections Officer is subject to the direction, control and supervision of GECOM as provided for in Section 18 of the Election Laws

Justice of Appeal Dawn Gregory (Amendment) Act. Additionally, she pointed out that Section 22 of the Election Law (Amendment) Act empowers the Elections Commission to remove any difficult that arises during the application of the Representation of the People Act by amending the Electoral Laws.

The Chief Elections Officer, she said, is therefore obligated to act in accordance with the entire electoral regime – the Constitution, the Representation of the People Act, the Election Laws (Amendment) Act and Order 60 as directed by the commission.

“Therefore, the directions given by GECOM and or its Chairperson to CEO to prepare his report in accordance with the recount must be treated as a valid lawful directive, which the CEO is required to obey by virtue of Section 18 of the ELAA [Election Laws (Amendment) Act,” Justice Beharry ruled.

It was explained that while Section 96 (1) of the Representation of the People Act mandates the Chief Elections Officer to ascertain the results of the elections based on valid votes tabulated in accordance with Section 84; the tabulation process was overtaken by the Recount Order, which now forms part of the electoral regime. As such, she said the CEO, while complying with Section 96 must now base his Elections Report on the Recount Order.

“It is disingenuous for the CEO to insist on preparing a Section 96 Report on the basis of the March 13 Declarations when GECOM specifically issued Order 60 to cater for the various disputes and contentions that arose after polling day as stated in Recital Eight of Order 60,” the High Court

Justice of Appeal Rishi Persaud Judge said.

The Chief Elections Officer, she iterated, must comply with the directive of the Elections Commission and submit an Elections Report in accordance with data generated during the national recount.

For his part, Justice of Appeal, Rishi Persaud, in agreeing that the High Court had limited jurisdiction to address the electoral impasse, endorsed the position that the Chief Elections Officer is mandated the comply with the instructions of the Elections Commission and or its Chairman.

“However, this limited jurisdiction cannot be invoked to resolve any question as to the validity of an election itself; it is in this limited context her Honour [Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire] was plainly correct in concluding that the CEO must act upon GECOM’s direction to produce his report in accordance with the recount. This effectively resolved the impasse by smoothing the electoral process,” Justice Persaud posited.

Referencing to the decision of the CCJ in the case – Bharrat Jagdeo and Irfaan Ali v Eslyn David and others – the Appellate Judge said it was the ruling of the apex court that the valid votes counted during the recount exercise are incapable of being declared invalid by any person or authority. He emphasised that the CCJ’s decision must be read as a whole in order to fully appreciate its impact on the issues highlighted.

Justice Persaud also agreed with the Chief Justice when she ruled that the 10 Declarations made

by Returning Officers have been overtaken by events, and as such, iterated the position of the court, that the results of the elections must be declared in accor-

High Court Judge, Priya Beharry dance with the valid votes tabulated during the national recount. Collectively, the judges in the Appellate Court, ruled that the majority of the issues raised in Jones’ appeal were res judicata having been ventilated in previous cases, and therefore amounted to an abuse of the court.

“I am satisfied that there is duplication in the claims brought by Misenga Jones with those brought

by Ulita Moore,” Justice Gregory had said as she cited the issue surrounding the constitutionality of Section 22 of the Election Laws (Amendment) Act and the National Recount as examples.

COURT’S DECISION STAYED Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde, who appeared in association with Attorneys-at-Law John Jeremie, S.C and Mayo Robertson, made an application for the decision of the court to be stayed for a period of three days.

This application was met with objection by the majority of the respondents including Kim Kyte-Thomas, the attorney representing the Chairman of Elections Commission. Kyte-Thomas said with the case having been dismissed, it is time to bring the electoral process to a close.

Initially, Justice Persaud and Justice Beharry had objected to the application, however, following based on an oral submission by Attorney-at-Law Maxwell Edwards, who appeared in association with the Attorney General Basil Williams, Justice Gregory and Justice Persaud agreed to stay the decision of the court for a period of 24 hours.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Reflections on EID-UL-ADHA THE holy festival of Eid-ul-Adha will be celebrated today in Guyana; its message of sacrifice has left an indelible mark on humanity for eternity.

The occasion, observed by Muslims the world over, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to follow Allah’s command to sacrifice his own son, Ishmael. The Almighty, on recognising the faithfulness of his servant, intervened before Ibrahim could have committed the act, and asked that a lamb be sacrificed as an offering instead. The story of Ibrahim has, for centuries, served as a reminder to Muslims of the faithfulness they owed to God, and has inspired many to keep the faith. From the awe-inspiring narration that passed down from generation to generation, several themes stand out in universal support for upliftment of humanity.

But two of them resonate with both believers and non-believers. These are

sacrifice and loyalty to the Creator. In life, sacrifices are important and many would agree that a life without God is like a ship in the ocean without a sail. God, the Supreme Being, is the embodiment of love, respect, tolerance, brotherhood, peace, unity and all the good qualities that are spiritually pure that one can think about in life.

Man, on his sojourn on Earth, is duty-bound to keep close to his Creator, and in doing so, he has to be a firm embracer of peace, unity and brotherhood-- in short, humanity—to remain God conscious. So, in loyalty to the Creator, it is important for man to be an upholder of peace, love and unity among his fellow mankind. This is an integral part of the universal message of sacrifice and loyalty to the Creator from the festival of Eid-ul-Adha, and it strikes a chord when it comes to Guyana. For years, Guyana has been divided along ethnic lines, fueled by the unsavory rhetoric of

some politicians who are bent on protecting their narrow self-interests. Guyanese are peaceful and happy people by nature, but for too long there has been distrust among the two major ethic groups. This has not been a healthy situation for the youths of today who want to see all hands on deck, working in the interest of the development of Guyana. For Guyana to move forward and get to where it envisions to be, it will have to be united, and this would require all to make the sacrifice, putting aside all personal prejudices and collectively put their shoulders to the wheel to build a land that is just and bountiful for all. God wants his people to be united and to live in peace and happiness. But for this to happen, sacrifices would have to be made, and here is where the message of Eid-ul-Adha is relevant to Guyana. No one is asked to kill to prove his obedience to the all-pervading God of love, peace and togetherness, but simply to

make the sacrifice in putting their fragile ego aside, embracing commonalities and making a concerted effort to overcome their differences.

So, as Muslims throughout Guyana and other parts of the world today engage in charitable activities and don new clothes to celebrate the sacrifice and loyalty of Ibrahim,the servant of God, Guyanese, led by their political leaders can take a step towards brotherhood by shaking off the animosity they have for each other and set out on a path for cooperation where all participate equally and meaningfully. And the people, irrespective of their ethnicity, should begin to see each other as their brother’s keeper and as part of the diverse family of the Creator.

In this way, all, in some way, will demonstrate sacrifice and loyalty to the Creator, who is a God of peace, love and unity as the story of Eid-ul- adha reflects.

CIOG President…

Together we can become agents of peace

–– regardless of ethnicity and creed ALLAH, God Almighty has reminded us in the Holy Quran,“This day I have perfected your Deen for you, completed my favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your way of life.” (Holy Quran Chapter 5 verse 3)” All gratitude is due to Allah (SWT), Lord of all creation, peace and blessings on the noble Prophet (SAW), his family and Companions.

I extend Eid Mubarak greetings on behalf of the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana to all and ask Allah (SWT), the Almighty, to accept our good deeds.

Eid-ul-Adha has arrived, it is a season of happiness, family bonding, and bridging the gap between the rich and the poor, nurturing mutual compassion, love, and support for the vulnerable; values that are important to Guyanese and the wider community. Eid is also an opportunity to demonstrate solidarity; especially since this year’s Eid-ul-Adha comes as the Muslim Ummah and the world suffers difficult times filled with crises and obstacles.

Compassion and support are needed, for many of our brethren are experiencing uncertainty, fear, pain, and frustration. The Coronavirus pandemic has virtually brought the world to a halt and stopped the journey to perform the Hajj for those residing outside of Saudi Arabia. This is a period of great test which requires reflection and meaningful action.

Eid-ul-Adha cannot be celebrated without remembering the patriarch, the friend of Allah (SWT), Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), and peace be upon him. This festival commemorates the sacrifices made by Prophet Ibrahim and his family. Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) is described as the forefather of all the prophets who came after him, including Moses, Jesus, and our Beloved Muhammad (SAW). Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) is accorded the highest status in the Holy Quran and is described in (Chapter 16: verse 120), as an “Ummah,” a nation. Imagine one person referred to as an Ummah. This is partly because the amount of good, his exemplar submission to Allah (SWT), and sincerity in his worship, all embodied to the degree of an entire Ummah, a nation. He was given the title of Khaleel-lullah, or friend of Allah.

This is confirmed in the holy quran, “When his Lord said to him ‘submit’, he said ‘I have submitted [in Islam] to the Lord of the worlds.” (Chapter 2: verse 131)” Eid ul-Adha starts with the glorification of Allah (SWT), and its pinnacle is total submission to the Creator. Our journey begins by understanding and moving through the levels of our soul. If one overcomes his lower desires, detaches from all material desires, and truly humbles before Allah (SWT), one will understand the essence behind this celebration and can derive

the best out of this Eid. This was the example of our Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him).

Eid ul-Adha is the celebration of the reformation of the human condition from that of servitude to other men to that of devotion to the Creator of all living and non-living things. Do not fall into the trap of considering yourself better than others; Remember Allah (SWT) says, “Oh mankind, we created you from a single man and a single woman, and made you into nations and tribes so that you should get to know one another. The most honoured of you are the ones who are most mindful of Him: God is all knowing, all aware.” (Holy Quran - Chapter 49: verse 13).

Considering Eid as a unifying factor for all the Muslim Ummah, I humbly request you to join me in raising our hands in Dua. Supplicating to The Almighty for Blessings and Protection of our Muslim brethren and all of humanity. Let us pray for peaceful co-existence in Guyana and the entire world. Change begins with the person in the mirror. Our actions must prove that we mean no ill to anyone and we are all part of one humanity. Each one of us has to be the change that we desire.

Change yourself in order to set an example which encourages others to change. “Verily, Allah (SWT) will not change the condition of a people until they change themselves. (Holy Quran - Chapter 13: verse 11) Further, Allah (SWT) reminds us in the Quran, “Indeed, the most worthy of Abraham

among the people are those who followed him [in submission to Allah] and this Prophet, and those who believe [in his message]. And Allah is the (protector and helper) of the believers.” (Holy Quran – Chapter 3: verse 68) Our Father, Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him, epitomised the verse of the Quran: Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us).” (Holy Quran Chapter 3: verse 173) May Allah (SWT) continue to bless you and your families and make us people who strive to bring benefit to others. Let us work on improving ourselves and those around us.

Together we work to become agents of peace, instilling harmony among people regardless of ethnicity and creed. Let us be protectors of each other, ensuring we respect the rights of each other. May GOD bless our nation as we strive to build a better country.

May Allah (SWT) show us the truth as truth and help us to follow it and show us evil as evil and enable us to avoid it. Let us be like the great Prophet, the Patriarch, our father, the Friend of GOD Ibrahim (Abraham), peace be upon him and his family.

Eid Mubarak Eid Mubarak Eid Mubarak Was-Salaamu Alaikum -WaRahmatullahi-Wabarakaatuh.

Al-Hajj Shahabudeen Ahmad President

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Eid-ul-Adha’s invaluable teachings are as strong today as they were centuries ago Dear Editor, EVERY year, Muslims across the globe carry out the obligation of the sacrifice to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) and his son Ishmail’s (AS) absolute obedience and submission to please their Creator.

On this highly revered occasion, we, the Guyana Islamic Forum for Education, Peace and Religious Solidarity the Electric Mosque’s Presentation of the Teachings of

Islam, in association with the Universal Peace Federation – Guyana, seize this opportunity to extend Eid-ul-Adha greetings to our fellow Muslim brothers and sisters, to our Politicians, and the nation of Guyana.

It is to be noted that Eid-ul-Adha’s invaluable teachings of sacrifice and service are as strong today as they were centuries ago. The message of servitude to the Divine Will and the need for selflessness before attainment is still relevant. It entails giving up bad habits

and to avoid any ill feelings towards others.

It is about doing your duty and doing what is right. It is about overcoming obstacles through personal sacrifice.

Further, one of the greatest causes of failure in life is the inability to make sacrifices. As for this reason, we take this opportunity to urge our Political leaders to sacrifice their thirst for extreme aggrandizement for the benefit and good of the nation. We ask that you make the ultimate

sacrifice and do what is right for this great nation so that we may return to normalcy and prosperity. We ask that you bear in mind that the people and nations in the world who achieve the most are the ones who can sacrifice.

Eid-ul-Adha Mubarak! Eid-ul-Adha Mubarak! Eid-ul-Adha Mubarak!

Sincerely, Hajji Dr. Roshan Khan

President Granger and Leader of the Opposition need to take responsibility and let’s move on Dear Editor, I SPENT the past two weeks reflecting deeply, and moreso last weekend, reflecting on the negative impact of our leadership, both past and present; and I have concluded that our men have failed us as leaders, and President David Granger and the Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo are continuing to fail us.

Our leaders have failed our women, we look to our men as our protectors and providers and this is no different with our men holding leadership positions.

I read the petitions last weekend for Retired Justice Claudette Singh to resign as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and for Acting Chief Justice Roxane George to be investigated and removed, and I could not help but reflect on the state of women in Guyana, and whether our men as leaders have done enough, or are doing enough. I could not help but think how misplaced our anger is. I could not help but ponder on when will our men in leadership begin to really fight for us and our children and for the future of our children.

One of the best things that could happen to a man, especially a man with power, as do the President and Opposition Leader, is to have someone in your life who will straighttalk to you. Not in a disrespectful manner, but to help to bring balance in your lives and to keep you grounded. So, I will now straighttalk to President Granger and the Leader of the Opposition.

Retired Justice Claudette Singh and the Acting Chief Justice Roxanne George are not the problem; these women have worked hard to get to the top of their profession, and now we are trying to destroy what they have built.

What we want Justice Singh and the Chief Justice to do, is to clean up the mess, but let’s talk a bit about whose mess it is. Let’s talk about who created this mess.

The mess in Guyana currently was created

by Forbes Burnham, Cheddi Jagan, Desmond

Hoyte, Samuel Hinds, Donald Ramotar; and Bharrat Jagdeo and David Granger. What we are asking the Chairman of GECOM and the Chief Justice to do, is to help us to clean up their mess. The Chief Justice and the Chairman of GECOM are required to do what is required based on the law. President Granger and Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo are required to clean this mess up with a political solution.

President Granger created or contributed to this mess by not doing enough and Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo created and contributed to the mess by doing too much. So, let us lay the blame where it should be, the Chairman of GECOM and the Chief Justice, are not the political leaders.

As women in Guyana, we have always been fighting for our men in leadership. I see the people on the front lines fighting for President Granger and the Leader of the Opposition and Mr. Irfaan Ali and many or most of them are women. We the women are in the forefront of the fight, whether it is for democracy, rule of law or respect for our leaders, we are there, in the front line! But as I scan our society socially and economically, I am asking myself what are we fighting for?

What do we the women of this country get from our men in leadership in return?

After fighting, our women go back to the pavements with their stalls selling as vendors; they make up about 75% (at least it looks that way) of the private security services. When our middle-class men are at home sleeping in the nights, our grandmothers, and mothers, are in front of their homes, as the security guards. Our women have become the protectors as security guards, for our middle-class men, some of whom are in leadership and we are fighting for them. The irony is that while our women are out in the nights protecting our middle-class men and their families, what or who are they protecting them from? We are protecting them from our sons and grandsons, who our women should be at home to nurture and raise in the nights While we fight for our men in leadership,

some of our women, spend five to ten years building their homes because they cannot access financing. While we fight for our men in leadership, our young girls are still leaving schools in their numbers because of teenage pregnancy, partly because no significant educational reform is being done, particularly in the Community High Schools. While we fight for our men in leadership, there are few re-orientation programme in the society, for the young men to be recruited, for example, into the private security services, so that our women when they retire, can get to experience relaxation and rest.

While we fight for our men in leadership, they want us removed when we work hard and achieve the top position at the university.

While we fight for our men in leadership, they become comfortable in their positions as Presidents and Prime Ministers and Leader of the Oppositions, Ministers and Parliamentarians, and drive pass our women on the streets in the city, as they do vending. They pass our women in the security huts in from of their homes and never wonder if these women have access to financing for their growth and development? The never wonder how they can reform the educational sector so as to expand the choices and opportunities for the children of these women. I am in no way being disrespectful to women who are vendors and security guards, rather I am advocating for more to be done for them.

While we fight for our men in leadership, they are not creating enough programmes to provide greater opportunities for our young men, many of whom feel that the only hope they can have of a car, is by stealing one or becoming involved in illegal activities to get one.

While we blame the Chairman of GECOM and the Chief Justice, we continue to treat our men in leadership in the way some mothers treat with their sons, by not letting them take responsibility for their actions. President Granger has to take responsibility for his actions or inactions. He has to take responsi-

Where did we go wrong?

Dear Editor,

AS I observe the protracted election process play out and the heightend sense of racism, I cannot help but wonder where did Guyana go wrong.

We have witnessed the racial divide and

the economic exploit for the last 60 years of our beloved country, and yet it continues while its citizens remain poor and the country remains one of the poorest in the western hemisphere inspite of all the natural resources.

The racial divide has affected almost two

generations and continues while the racial diversity and landscape continue to change and dimly reflect the origins. Our post millennials have been drawn into the racial divide and it has tarnished the reputation of the country and serves as an embarrassment to those would like to proudly represent

bility for not doing enough and for not taking good sound advice. The Leader of the Opposition has to take responsibility for doing too much and not doing enough of the right and honourable things and for not building trust in the process.

As I watch the men in the international organisations and from the developed and some developing countries countries calling for a declaration of the 2 March, 2020 General and Regional Elections, even though some of us are crying out to them saying that if that happens, our sons and daughters, our babies, may get hurt, but they are not listening. They sit in their ivory towers shouting back at us: Declaration! Democracy! Rule of Law! Without seriously examining the context. I wonder what is the principle for which they are fighting, in some cases it is the ‘principles of business’ because there is no principle to fight for in the 2 March elections; not the principle of democracy, not the principle of rule of law because the election were so corrupted; has corruption become a principle now? Mahatma Ghandi said ‘to believe in something and not live it, is dishonest’.

I wonder how many of these men know what the pain a mother feels when her child or children are in danger. President Barrack Obama said that ‘your children are like your heart outside of your body’, I see many hearts outside of parents’ bodies in the form of our children in Guyana.

Finally, what Guyana needs is not a declaration but a solution! As women, we will continue to fight for our men in leadership, but my one request is, President Granger and Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, can you make the fight worth it for us and our children and their future? Maybe we need a ‘Women’s Political Party’ because we think more of our children and their future.

Yours faithfully, Citizen Audreyanna Thomas their country.

Our so-called leaders, if they truly care, must become strong advocates of political and racial reconciliation and admonish our citizens to put down their weapons of hatred and animosity so that Guyana can truly evolve into a nation of one people though many origins.

Regards, Pastor Daniel Singh

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Residents of Region Seven urged to take necessary precaution to curtail spread of COVID-19 Dr. Edward Sagala, Regional Health Officer and Senior Public Health Consultant, has urged residents of region seven, including Aranka, Arangoy, Devil’s Hole, Mango Landing and Arau Village to take the necessary precaution to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus during the extended holiday weekend.

In a press statement, the medical expert urged residents to avoid crowding at beaches, parks and other public places, even as they enable health workers to help and serve them with more efficiency.

The use of face masks, the regular sanitisation of hands, social distancing

and going out to public places only when necessary were areas re-emphasised.

The Department of Health, in collaboration with the Health Emergency Operations Committee (HEOC), continues to monitor and manage a number of suspected and positive COVID-19 cases at various locations in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni Region, including Bartica.

As at July 30, 2020, the situation was as follows: Total number of cases recorded in the Region – 82, while the number of persons in institutional isolation stands at 9 and the number of deaths stands at 2.

The Mayor of Bartica, recently, called

on residents to be cautious and treat every contact as a suspected case “Treat everyone as a suspected cases it which therefore means you will keep the necessary distance between yourself and that individual. You will protect yourself by wearing a mask and ensure that the person you are speaking to or communicating with you, that they also wear a mask. You must ensure that your children are off the streets and home and you will also comply with the curfew,” he stated.

He also called on residents to be wise and play a cooperative role to combat the pandemic.

“A collective and collaborative effort is

needed at this time. Please do not panic, it is no time for us to get frustrated but it’s time for us to be wise and make sound decisions in our own interests because the life you save may be yours.”

Currently, there are 193 active cases in institutional isolation at various facilities across Guyana; 35 persons in institutional quarantine and three patients housed in the COVID-19 ICU. Globally, the WHO has reported that positive cases stand at 16,558,289 with 656,093 deaths, while in the Regions of the Americas, positive cases now stand at 8,840,524, with a total of 342,635 deaths.

EID-UL-ADHA MESSAGES… PPP…

Eid Mubarak, our Muslim brothers and sisters!

THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend greetings and best wishes to the Muslim communities here in Guyana and in the Diaspora on the sacred occasion of Eid-ul-Adha.

Its observance comes during the annual Holy Pilgrimage to Mecca, The Hajj, a journey that embodies sacrifices in the quest to fulfill religious obligations. Eid-ul-Adha reminds of unbridled humility and the willingness to selflessly make sacrifices in obedience of God. Its inspiring messages are pertinent to the spiritual advancement of all Mankind which redounds in peace and togetherness.

Its observance also continues to exemplify humane characteristics of generosity, morality and love for others, especially the less fortunate.

In a diverse society like Guyana where religious boundaries are often transcended, these attributes have proven their value not only in catalysing and strengthening bonds among our people but also in forging a better understanding and appreciation of our rich cultures and religious practices.

As our Muslim brothers and sisters celebrate in traditional ways, the occasion once again brings into focus the many sacrifices Guyanese

have and continue to make for self-advancement and nation-building with the common objective of a better life and future for all. The PPP is mindful that, regrettably, due to COVID-19 protocols, related activities would be restricted.

However, it’s optimistic that the significance of Eid-ul-Adah and its relevance in today’s world will not in any way be diminished.

The Party, therefore, urges that the messages and significance of this occasion be foremost in the minds of all so that hope will continue to flourish. Once again, the PPP extends best wishes for the occasion. Eid Mubarak!

GAWU: Eid-ul-Adha reminds us we’re our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers THE GAWU joins to extend our warmest wishes to Muslims across our country and around the world who are celebrating Eid-ul-Adha.

This special holiday is a time to honour the sacrifice, resolve, and commitment to God demonstrated by Abraham. It would usually mark the end of the pilgrimage of Hajj performed each year by millions of Muslims who journey from all corners of the world to Mecca as a testament to their faith.

This scared journey, however, has been impacted this year by the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic but the enduring message of the occasion remains enduring. Eid-ul-Adha is also a celebration of the ways faith can transcend any differences or boundaries and

unite us under the banners of fellowship and love.

As Muslims, from all walks, of life join their neighbours and friends to pray, give alms, exchange gifts, and recommit to helping others we are reminded of the difficulties that afflict thousands of Guyanese.

The prevailing economic situation which is occasioned by poor policies and a procrastinated election cycle has pushed thousands into hardship. As Eid-ul-Adha reminds us, we should help those less fortunate and be our brother’s and sister’s keeper.

May the spirits of community, togetherness, principled service, and compassionate generosity bring good tidings to those celebrating Eid-ul-Adha.

PAC/NPC calls for continued religious tolerance

THE Protected Areas Commission/National Parks Commission (PAC/NPC) notes the Friday July 31, 2020 celebrations of Eid-ul- Adha, and we join in wishing all our Muslim brothers and sisters Eid Mubarak.

This holiday, also known as the ‘Festival of Sacrifice Feast’, is an extremely significant one for Muslims. Profit Ibrahim, whose name in Islam also means ‘Messenger of God’, was willing to sacrifice

his son, Ishmael, as an offering to God. The purpose of sacrifice during this festival is to give up something that is loved the most – this is how Muslims show devotion to their God, Allah. In keeping with the Eid Ul Adha’s message of dedication and giving/sharing, the meat of a sacrificed animal (cow, sheep, goat, buffalo or camel) is shared to the poor, family and friends in three equivalent parts; this is said to emphasize equality, kindness and devotion.

In Guyana, there is a variety of religious groups and beliefs. The appreciation of each other’s religious beliefs and cultures is an ingredient for unity and progress.

Guyana is not only diverse in religion and culture, but also in biological diversity; our natural heritage.

As we celebrate this holiday, the PAC calls for us all to be appreciate our diversity and to be kind to each other. EID MUBARAK!

Lewis and Green’s comments highly irresponsible and out-of-place Dear Editor,

THE Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) has seen media reports as it concerns calls by former Prime Minister Hamilton Green and longstanding GTUC General Secretary Lincoln Lewis for President David Granger to disregard the Constitution and to impose his will and way. While Mr Green, for his part, has sought to walk back his comments, attributing them to a slip of the tongue, Mr Lewis remains, so far, silent.

The FITUG finds the comments by both erstwhile gentlemen to be completely out of place and they must be forthrightly and roundly condemned. While both men may have their political convictions and have

shown where they stand, in our view, they have crossed the line. We consider it wholly unacceptable for anyone, much less persons such as Messrs Green and Lewis, to advocate openly for the President, or anyone for that matter, to throw away the Constitution. We hasten to remind them and all Guyana that the Constitution at its preamble says, among other things, “We the Guyanese people…Forge a system of governance that promotes concerted effort and broad-based participation in national decision-making in order to develop a viable economy and a harmonious community based on democratic values, social justice, human rights, and the rule of law…”. Those sentiments, we contend, were not chosen lightly but were enshrined after considerable thought. Therefore, to seek to wish them

away, as some are, is highly irresponsible.

The Federation is also most surprised, and we daresay perplexed, by the comments of Lincoln who we have known for a long time. Mr Lewis, we recollect, has long advocated embracing the Constitution. He is known for his consistency advocacy of the Constitutional provisions that seek the involvement of civil society in governance.

Therefore, we find him now calling on the President to act not only contrary but to throw away the scared rules of our land deeply disturbing. Also, what message is Lincoln, as a trade unionist, sending to employers? What would be his reaction to employers ignoring conditions set out in Collective Labour Agreements? We have to wonder whether he fully considered his

remarks.

The FITUG holds that the comments by both individuals certainly do no credit to their credibility, waning or not. As persons who have been in the arena for as long as they have they ought to have known better and definitely acted with more responsibility. They certainly must shoulder the blame for their comments and no pacification can erase the dark blots on their characters. We hold that Guyana as a democratic society must uphold and abide by our Constitution and all laws.

To seek to disregard or to ignore the rules, as some now openly seek, cannot be considered proper in any modern society.

Regards, NAACIE, FITUG

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Coalition firm on valid votes for declaration …expresses disappointment with Court of Appeal ruling

CAMPAIGN Manager of the APNU+AFC, Joseph Harmon, said on Thursday that his party is disappointed with the ruling of the Court of Appeal as it believes that the judgements were not “sound in law”.

On the other hand, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Bharrat Jagdeo welcomed the court’s ruling and urged swift action by the Elections Commission to conclude the elections based on the national recount data.

On Thursday, Guyana’s Court of Appeal unanimously dismissed an appeal challenging the legality of the Recount Order in the Misenga Jones v The Guyana Elections et al matter. The Court also ruled that any challenge to the recount must come by way of an elections petition and that Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield is subject to the directions of the commission. Responding to the decisions, Harmon said: “The Guyanese people have certainly examined, in a more meticulous way, the manner in which their Justice system functions. They will look at it much more seriously because they’re seeing the flaws that are coming out in these judgements.”

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Bharrat Jagdeo

In his opinion, the CCJ, the Court of Appeal and the High Court have skirted around the issue of national importance making their decisions not the entirety of the law. He said that they have failed to consider that this important juncture in the history of Guyana will set the pace for the future and how the Constitution and other Laws are interpreted.

Even so, he vowed that the APNU+AFC coalition remains committed to the rule of law and abides by the decisions of the court.

However, the APNU+AFC iterates that, when the matter goes to GECOM, only valid votes must be counted in the final declaration. “Fraudulent

votes cannot be the basis for a final declaration to be made.

This is our firm position,” he said. Later, while on an APNU+AFC programme, the Campaign Manager spoke directly to supporters, locally and abroad, when he said: “Remain focused, remain calm and remain positive that in spite of all that is happening that we can still get out of the Chairman of the Elections Commission, a declaration that is based on valid votes and no fraudulent votes. We remain very confident about that.”

Meanwhile, in an online briefing on Thursday, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Bharrat Jagdeo said

Campaign Manager of the APNU+AFC, Joseph Harmon

that the matters filed were already filed in other cases and decided upon either by the Court of Appeal or the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

“This is an abuse of the Court. APNU is relitigating issues that have already been litigated and decisions made and the Chief Justice had some harsh words in that regard that we cannot be doing the same thing over and over in a never-ending cycle. All of this with the purpose of delaying the declaration of the result,” he said.

He added that the Court of Appeal had reaffirmed the position that the matter of the election rests in the hands of GECOM and that the Recount Order was endorsed

by the CCJ and can only be challenged through a national recount.

Jagdeo said: “The commission now has the power to make the final declaration and they have their final say, not Lowenfield and Lowenfield is subjected to the directions of the commission.” While the court granted a 24-hour stay to the matter, the PPP/C Executive argued that Chair of GECOM, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh is under no obligation to adhere to this stay when clarity was not given on why it was granted. He urged Singh to “act urgently” because Guyanese have waited far too long for a conclusion to the elections.

$1.6B COVID-19 hospital ...

“In the aftermath of COVID-19 this facility will be used to address our needs, which are bound in the tropics… it will facilitate testing, research, treatment of identifiable and unidentifiable diseases, enhance surveillance and provide assistance for neighbouring countries,” said Minister Lawrence.

Resident Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/ WHO) Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow also shared the view that the facility will be effective in the fight against COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.

He, however, said that while government has its part to play in the fight against COVID-19, the role of individuals cannot be overlooked.

This was also the view of President Granger, who, in his address, said Guyanese

need to practice personal measures. He said they need to avoid leaving home; avoid gatherings of more than five persons; avoid visiting sick persons; avoid coughing and sneezing in the presence of other persons; avoid touching other persons; avoid touching parts of your own faces; and adopt the habit of washing of hands frequently and thoroughly.

“We must continue to observe the rules of social distancing, by wearing face masks and practicing good hand hygiene. We will win the fight against the COVID-19 and other communicable diseases. Exercising personal and social responsibility will help keep our people safe,” said the president.

His belief is that human lives are the most precious resource. Human health is, however, being threatened

by the increasing incidence of transnational infectious diseases. These diseases, unfortunately, are not expected to disappear completely.

The country’s public health systems, therefore, must never be found deficit in responding to emerging communicable diseases, said President Granger.

He assured that no effort will be spared, now or in the future, to protect the nation’s health. Every life matters.

Testimony to government’s commitment was the establishment of the National Coronavirus Task Force (NCTF), just hours after the death of the first COVID-19 patient.

Government also published an extraordinary issue of the Official Gazette on March 16, and promulgated a menu of measures based on the Public Health Ordinance for the enforcement of pro-

tective measures.

This was supplemented, on April 3, by the promulgation of emergency measures which included the imposition of a curfew, the closure of Guyana’s airspace and borders and other restrictions.

A draft National Action Plan was also promulgated in the form of a ‘White Paper.’

Every ministry has been responding to the pandemic through carefully-coordinated action plans – Rural Entrepreneurial Action Plan (REAP); Coordinating Agency for Small Enterprise (CASE); Mobile Emergency Enforcement Teams (MEETS); National Implementation Scheme for Interconnectivity (NISI); Public Education Remote Learning-Teaching Scheme (PERLS); Social, Cultural and Arts Renewal Scheme (SCARS); Social Protection Implementation Measures

(SPIM) and others.

The enforcement arms of the state have adopted the four Es – engage, explain, encourage and enforce – in their interaction with the public in urban, rural and hinterland districts.

“Your government has recognised the public health threat posed by communicable diseases even prior to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Attention, in recent years, has been focused on reducing the incidence and improving treatments for communicable diseases. The public health system is being made more resilient and responsive to the threats posed by communicable diseases,” said President Granger.

As it regards plans for the future, the president referred to the “Decade of Development: 2020-2029,” through which government will continue to improve

PNCR extends EID-UL-ADHA greetings …recommits to unity in diversity The People's National Congress Reform (PNCR) has extended Eid-ul-Adha greetings to all Guyanese, but more especially to our Muslim Brothers and Sisters.

In a message the party said the preparedness of the Holy Prophet to make the supreme sacrifice, as proof of his total commitment to the teachings of Allah, should inspire us all to strive towards the ideals of brotherly love, peace, justice and empathy towards one another. It is only by the personal commitment of each Guyanese citizen to the above stated ideals can our country develop into a Nation characterized by unity, harmony and a sense of decency.

The PNCR has always been and will always remain respectful of Guyana’s cultural and religious diversity and believes that our diversity has worked and can continue to work to the country’s advantage. In this latter regard, it should be remembered that it was the PNC Government, under its Founder Leader, Forbes Burnham, which paved the way for each of the country’s major religious groups to observe their holy days as National Holidays. Our Party remains committed to ensuring unity in diversity so that our beloved country can experience real development and progress.

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public health services. These efforts will be consistent with the approaches outlined in Guyana’s Green State Development Strategy: Vision 2040 which identifies communicable diseases as a challenge to public health and public well-being, said President Granger.

The Decade of Development will see public health expenditure achieve or surpass the PAHO-WHO target of six per cent of GDP. This will allow for the continued protection of the country’s most valued resource – our people.

The Decade of Development will witness the establishment of a more inclusive public health system. And, among the priorities will be the augmentation of resources to address infectious diseases.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Eid-ul-Adha fosters charity, compassion – President

EID-UL-ADHA is a sacred celebration that helps to unite Guyanese from all walks of life, through acts of compassion and sharing.

This is the message of President David Granger as the Muslim community and other Guyanese observe Eid-ul-Adha today.

The President said that the observance, known as ‘the feast of the sacrifice’, is sacred as it commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s unshakeable faith and unwavering obedience to Allah’s command to sacrifice his beloved son Ishmael.

In Guyana, like other parts of the world,

he said that Eid-ul-Adha is observed countrywide with the offering of prayers and the distribution of food, usually the meat of a sacrificial lamb, and alms to the less fortune in society.

“These expressions of generosity to the poor and needy strengthen the chords of cohesion among people in our country.

They demonstrate our common humanity and concern for others. They are a manifestation of our collective endeavour to build a more equitable society where everyone will be treated with dignity and respect,” the President said.

He was pleased to point out that Guy-

anese, today, are becoming a more caring, considerate and compassionate people.

“We are working towards living in an inclusive society in which everyone, regardless of race, religion or region of residence will be respected and no one will feel excluded or marginalised,” he said.

As Guyanese celebrate today, the President prayed for the outpouring of charity and concern for others --- the characteristic of Eid-ul-Adha --- which he said will promote greater harmony in Guyana.

He wished all Guyanese, especially the Islamic community, a peaceful and joyous Eid-ul-Adha.

President David Granger

President recommits to abiding by GECOM declaration

By Navendra Seoraj PRESIDENT David Granger has again committed to respecting and complying with any declaration made by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

It has been almost 20 weeks since Guyanese went to the polls, but a result of the General and Regional Elections is yet to be declared by the Elections Commission. And, it was argued on many occasions that the delay was due mainly to a ‘legal’ tug of war on whether the elections commission should rely on the March declarations or the data generated by the national recount, to declare the results of the elections.

But, whenever a declaration is made, the President said he will accept the outcome, as he is “obliged” to observe the declaration made by the Chairman of GECOM, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh.

“Over the last 20 months, I have insisted that once the Chairman makes a declaration, I would comply with that declaration,” President Granger told reporters on the sidelines of the commissioning ceremony for Guyana’s Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, on Thursday.

The President reiterated his position while responding to a question on whether he intends to call a state of emergency should the Court of Appeal judgment, in Misenga Jones vs GECOM et al, show that his party will not be declared the winner of the elections.

The Court of Appeal has since unanimously dismissed the appeal

challenging the legality of the Recount Order which preceded the recount of the votes cast at the March 2 General and Regional elections.

The court also ruled that any challenge to the recount or the setting aside of the declarations of the administrative regions must come by way of an elections petition.

Prior to the court’s decision, the president said: “I have been saying over and over again, I will abide by the declaration by the GECOM and the ruling of the court.”

In simultaneously responding to the question of a state of emergency, President Granger said he has not contemplated the necessity for a state of emergency, and does not see how a state of emergency or necessity for a state of emergency arises.

“I have insisted on credibility from the start and that is nothing new, but I do not see what that has to do with a state of emergency,” he said.

When asked about his views on calls for a declaration to be made based on “valid votes,” the president again said he has insisted on credibility.

“What I have insisted on is credibility. Other people have been making calls, I know what I have said…I have said I am interested in having as early as possible, a declaration by the Chairman of the Commission,” said President Granger.

In further answering a question on what would be his position if a declaration is made and it includes votes that are deemed invalid, he said: “With respect, my statement on compliance with the declaration was not condi-

tional. I did not say if the rain is falling or the sun is shining, if it comes by day or night. I am obliged to observe the declaration of the chairman of the Elections Commission.”

Despite the President’s commitment and the absence of declared results, there have been calls for President Granger to concede. And, in response to this, the President said he cannot concede because no declaration has been made.

“I pay attention to what the popular media say but as far as the groundswell is concerned everybody knows that over the past 20 months I have been saying over and over again that I will abide by the declaration by the GECOM and ruling of the court,” said the Head of State.

He, however, said: “People can rightfully challenge a ruling once they disagree with it, but once the court has finally ruled then we will obey the rule of the court….the groundswell is not a legitimate statement of what the law or the constitution calls for…I follow the constitution and what the courts have said and I await a decision of the commission.”

The President also reminded persons that he does not “run” the elections, and it is the Chairman and the six commissioners of GECOM who will determine the outcome of the process.

In a past report, President Granger had said the Executive branch of Government does not have a role in managing elections.

“That role is given unto the Constitution, exclusively, explicitly to the Elections Commission. I cannot claim

victory, which I have not done, and I cannot concede defeat, which I have not done, unless I’m notified, formally, by the Chairman of the Elections Commission,” he said.

He said: “I don’t know what the Elections Commission will declare.

Like all Guyanese, we’ve been subject to various reports but the only authentic report will come from the Chairman of the Elections Commission to me and that has not happened. In that regard, I encourage all the spokespersons and commentators to wait, patiently, on the Chairman of the Elections Commission who, when she is ready, will make a declaration and, as I’ve said before, I’ll abide by that declaration.”

Recently, in a show of good faith, the incumbent A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition had extended an “olive branch” to all parties, which contested the elections.

The coalition said it is open to dialogue on a possible solution that would bring an end to the protracted electoral process.

APNU+AFC Chief Spokesperson, Joseph Harmon, in a public address, said: “The APNU+AFC Coalition, in the national interest, and with a view to maintaining stability and peace, remains open to dialogue with other political parties and stakeholders on the way forward for our country. The APNU+AFC Coalition is prepared to act responsibly to bring a resolution to the ongoing political situation.”

All eyes will again be on GECOM, as Guyanese await the conclusion of the protracted electoral process.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Measures for religious worship relaxed ‌but with rigid guidelines for social distancing THE National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) has updated and extended Guyana’s Emergency Measures to August 15, 2020 with new provisions for religious worship; additional Indigenous villages under strict lockdown and more.

The measures were updated and signed by Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, as they are to expire on July 31, 2020. The updated measures will take effect from August 1, 2020 and are in keeping with the government’s six-phase plan for the re-opening of the country and represents Phase Four.

As it relates to the provisions for religious worship, the notice states that religious leaders must ensure that attendance at religious services and gathering are restricted to 25 per cent the capacity of the building where the service or gathering is to be held.

Where there are multiple services, there should be no less than 45 minutes between each service to allow for sanitation and cleaning of facilities.

Elderly persons should be given the option to attend services separately and apart from the normal services, preferably early in the morning.

Meanwhile, the place of worship must be cleaned and sanitised immediately before and after all gatherings and service. Sanitisation or handwashing stations should be

The Smith Memorial Church on Brickdam, Georgetown

provided for persons to use before and after the service or gathering and where persons enter the place of worship barefoot, it must be ensured that feet washing facilities are provided. Where applicable, when attendees enter a place of worship barefoot, shoes and sandals should be placed separately in bags.

The notice states that, as far as is reasonably practicable and where persons are not from the same household, all persons, whether sitting or

standing, should maintain a physical distance of six feet from each other in or outside of the place of worship.

Religious leaders must also ensure that every person is wearing a mask fitted to cover the nose and mouth of the person while in the place of worship. Greeting practices should be adapted to avoid handshakes, hugs and other forms of physical contact.

In other cases, in serving religious or ceremonial foods, including communion, it must

Central Vaidik Mandir, Georgetown, Guyana

be ensured that individual and pre-packaged boxes are used instead of shared portions from communal containers.

Where applicable, persons should bring their own personal prayer rugs, covering or fabric to place over the carpet for daily prayers. The resume in-person worshipping also caters to prayers, weddings and funerals but in the controlled and restricted manner as outlined.

Importantly, religious leaders must ensure that any person

who has any flu-like symptoms or respiratory symptom does not attend services or gatherings. Even so, a room or area should be identified where a person could be isolated if he or she becomes ill or begins to develop flu-like symptoms or respiratory symptoms. In this case, the leaders must ensure that the Ministry of Public Health is informed of any person who has those symptoms.

These measures do not restrict virtual religious worship and must be in keeping

The Windsor Forest Mosque

with the COVID-19 curfew applicable to the country and Regions Five and Six. Except for religious services and gatherings, as aforementioned, where gatherings are allowed it shall not exceed 10 persons.

Apart from this, the nation-wide 18:00 hours to 06:00 hours curfew remains imposed until August 15, 2020 but is applicable to Regions Five and Six only on Saturdays and Sundays.

Meanwhile, the special measures previously put in place for some hinterland and mining communities now also apply to all residents and businesses in Enteringbang, Makapa, Kurushi, Arau and Oko. They come in addition to the restrictions in place for the geographical coordinates last highlighted for Moruca and all residents and businesses within the radius.

Some of the measures which apply to them include a 18:00 hours to 06:00 hours curfew; restricted travel in or out of the areas; a cease in all mining operations and a host of specific health measures which have also been extended to August 15, 2020.

Also, in the updates, where 90 minutes of exercise is permitted from Monday to Friday, it was added that where group exercise if conducted, persons shall maintain a physical distancing of six feet from each other.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

National study on e-commerce will better position Guyana to tap into int’l markets – Greenidge

FOREIGN Secretary, Carl Greenidge, on Thursday, stressed the need for the digital divide in Electronic Commerce (e-commerce) to be bridged in countries like Guyana which would allow more entities to participate in fair world trade.

He made the remarks at a National Workshop on Electronic Commerce hosted by the Department of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs online, where it was revealed that Guyana is receiving support in the execution of a National Study on Electronic Commerce.

Greenidge delivered the keynote address at the event, Foreign Secretary, Carl Greenidge, delivers the keynote during which, stakeholders address. Also pictured is Dr. Dianna Glasgow, Director also examined the State of of Foreign Trade.

Play of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Joint developing countries to shift situational analysis will alStatement Initiative (JSI) on to more high-value Infor- low us to take stock of the e-commerce and engaged mation and Communication work done to date, to find the in discussions on the role Technology (ICT) services. strengths and weaknesses of of e-commerce in Guyana’s What is becoming evi- the current legal and regulanational development. dent, he said, is that those tory landscape and to identify The Foreign Secretary who do not embrace e-com- the gaps. Thereafter, we can told the attendees that e-com- merce are at great risk of set priorities and, from this merce is revolutionising the being marginalised in global study, receive some guidance manner in which the world trade. To prevent this, he said on the necessary reforms trades, which has fueled the that there must be efforts to to develop our e-commerce emergence and growth of address the digital divide that architecture,” he said. billion-dollar companies such exists in many countries such He noted that, recently, as Alibaba and Amazon. as Guyana. there has been exponential Greenidge said that “This National Study on growth in the number of local e-commerce can be a cata- Electronic Commerce will companies offering logistics lyst for boosting economic be very helpful to Guyana. services in Guyana and Guytransformation by helping At the national level, the anese are actively engaged

in e-commerce. However, he pointed out that the majority of these e-commerce transactions have been concerned with the importation of goods while the greatest potential for significant expansion is being missed.

He said: “We have seen that elsewhere, it is small and medium enterprises that have taken the greatest advantage of e-commerce and where the greatest potential for extending their reach and growing their businesses lies. We need to alter this trend, particularly

diversification, e- commerce to support micro, small and medium sized enterprises (MSMEs) and e-government to improve access to, and efficiency of, government services.

Additionally, he said that some initial work has begun on updating the country’s intellectual property legislation and cybercrime legislation to protect the public online.

With the WTO’s intent on taking up e-commerce, MSMEs and investment facilitation in its negotiation

we will be able to develop Guyana’s negotiating position at the WTO. We will be better aware of our needs and negotiate from an informed position. On that note, I would like to thank the Trade and Advocacy Fund of the British Government for selecting Guyana as one of six countries to receive support for this national study,” he said.

At the event, stakeholders also provided feedback on a national level study presently being conducted

Stakeholders engage in discussion on electronic commerce since micro, small and medium sized enterprises pervade our business landscape.”

Greenidge was pleased to note that Guyana’s Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) embraces the concept of digital economy as a way to support economic

on multilateral agreements, Greenidge said that this will help to provide technical assistance and cooperation to help small and vulnerable economies to build capacity to benefit from trade.

“From this study, of which this seminar is part,

by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), through funding under the Trade and Investment Advocacy Fund (TAF2+) mechanism, to articulate Guyana’s interests in the E-Commerce JSI process.

U.S. announces additional visa restrictions on ‘senior’ Guyanese officials … claims democracy being undermined in Guyana

… Kozak avoids questions on Trump’s hopes to delay U.S. election ON Thursday, United States (U.S.) Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs (ag), Ambassador Michael Kozak, announced that additional visa restrictions will be placed on “senior individuals” in Guyana whom the U.S. believes are working to “undermine democracy” in the country.

Kozak made the announcement at a briefing on the administration’s efforts to promote democracy in the Western Hemisphere. This follows the initial announcement of visa restrictions to some senior individuals in Guyana by U.S. Secretary of State, Michael Pompeo, on July 15, 2020.

However, to-date, the

U.S. remains tight-lipped on who these individuals are and how many. U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, has stated that “privacy laws” prevent the U.S. from naming these individuals.

In his remarks on Thursday, Kozak stated: “Today, we are acting to prevent additional senior individuals from that country from entering the United States. The Secretary’s been clear: The Granger administration and its allies continue to defy the will of the Guyanese people by refusing to accept the vote count. The count has been certified as valid by international observers, OAS and CARICOM, Guyana’s and the Caribbean’s highest

courts. The United States joins the rest of the region refusing to go along with this farce. We will continue to act until the Granger administration accepts the will of Guyanese voters.”

In response to his remarks on Guyana, reporter from leading Spanish news agency, EFE, Beatriz Pascual, questioned Kozak: “Today, the President [Donald Trump] floated the idea of delaying the November election. What message do you think that sends to U.S. neighbours in Latin America like Guyana or Bolivia?”

In turn, Kozak avoided speaking on matters concerning democracy in his own country under the President he serves.

“Okay. Well, I’m not

going to comment on our President’s comments about domestic matters.

I would refer you to the White House on that,” he said, as the moderator quickly shifted attention to the next reporter.

Donald Trump has called for the U.S.’ November’s presidential election to be postponed, saying increased postal voting could lead to fraud and inaccurate results. He suggested a delay until people can “properly, securely and safely” vote. There is little evidence to support Trump’s claims but he has long railed against mail-in voting which he has said would be susceptible to fraud.

However, speaking on matters in Guyana Kozak

ballot box.

In response to Pompeo’s statement on July 15, the Executive arm of Government of Guyana said it was taken back by the decision taken by the U.S. State Department but nonetheless urged all locally and abroad to await the conclusion of the elections.

The Government said: “The matter affecting the outcome of Guyana’s elecUnited States (U.S.) Assis- tions is still before courts, tant Secretary for Western which is entirely the reHemisphere Affairs (ag), sponsibility of the judiAmbassador Michael Kozak ciary. No declaration has mirrored previous remarks been made.

by Pompeo that there The Executive Branch would be consequences has not participated in for individuals who seek the undermining of the to “undermine democracy” electoral process and locally. urges all countries inPompeo has said that terested in Guyana’s the events following Guy- development to await ana’s March 2, 2020 Gen- the logical conclusion eral and Regional elec- of the process which is tions indicate that there being managed by the are “forces” that have re- Elections Commission, peatedly refused to accept in accordance with the the will of the people at the Constitution of Guyana.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

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Black Lives Matter goes to the streets

AS the Black Lives Matter Movement in Guyana picks up steam, the group is following in the footsteps of its US counterpart and taking its message to the streets, literally, with street murals of the “Black Lives Matter” phrase set to be painted on streets across the country.

Representatives from the movement, last Tuesday, began the painting of a “Black Lives Matter” mural at the

Square of the Revolution, aptly just in front of the 1973 Monument of Cuffy, the rebellious slave who became a national hero in Guyana following the Berbice Slave Rebellion.

The mural is the second of its kind with one already completed in Bartica. Layout Coordinator for the Project, and member of the Movement, Lloyd Blanchard, explained that the two murals

are a part of a set, with others expected to be painted in Linden, and New Amsterdam.

Blanchard said that the Movement has also been in discussion with the Georgetown Mayor and City Council to have several others painted around the capital city.

“It gives the opportunity to instill in Guyanese that black lives matter and we

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Amputee, Gary Morris, decided to lend a helping hand in painting the “Black Lives Matter” street mural at the Square of the Revolution (Adrian Narine photo)

Aerial view of the “Black Lives Matter” mural being painted (Photocredit: Caliper Drone Services FB page)

are pushing back against systematic racism,” Blanchard noted.

In Guyana, a Black Lives Matter – Guyana chapter, was established earlier this year following the incident with George Floyd, an African American who died after a police officer knelt on his neck for over eight minutes; and as severe racism that started to surface due to the country’s elections situation.

“It gives me a visual voice in support of the black lives within Guyana and our mission to promote the push back against systematic racism,” Blanchard further said.

Amputee, Gary Morris, was motivated to help out in the project after he observed the activity and decided to assist the members in their painting.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Guyana rakes in US$3.6M in royalty …in second payment for oil and gas

By Lisa Hamilton GUYANA has received its second payment of oil and gas royalties from gross production at a total of US$3,698,152.63. The sum joins the country’s first payment of US$4.9M received on April 30, 2020 for a total of US$8.6M. In an invited interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Thursday, Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, confirmed that the payments were received on schedule on July 30 and have been deposited in the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) account opened with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

The payments are collectively for April, May and

June and averages around GYD$771,713,056 in consolidated total or approximately GYD$64,309,421 a month.

Though royalties are calculated on a monthly basis, Article 15.6 of the Petroleum Agreement specifies that the monies be transferred to the government quarterly, 30 days after the end of each calendar quarter. With the first payment made on April 30, this meant that the next was expected on July 30 while the third is now expected on October 30.

Under the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) governing the Stabroek Block, Guyana will be receiving at a minimum two per cent royalty on all oil

Black Lives Matter ...

“I come and see them man doing the hustle, so I just fall in and help out because all of we is one. To me, this signifies the struggles we fighting, and let us know that we, as blacks, have to unite. But it’s not about race, we looking at the times and what’s going on,” the 33-year-old shared.

Started in the United States in 2013, Black Lives Matter went from being a phrase against violence inflicted on Black communities to becoming a regis-

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tered organization, and later a global social movement in protest against incidents of police brutality and all racially motivated violence against people of African descent all across the globe.

The movement originated following the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the shooting of African American teen, Trayvon Martin. The movement picked up more attention earlier this year following Floyd’s death.

produced in the block, plus 12.5 per cent profit oil. As the capital and operating costs are liquidated, Guyana’s share of profit oil will increase.

This second payment of royalties will be added to the over US$90M Guyana already has in its NRF. The sum comes from Guyana’s first million-barrel of crude sold on February 19, 2020, raking in nearly US$55M; the second million-barrel sale at US$35M; the first payment

Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan (DPI photo)

of royalties at US$4.9M and interest from monies in the

bank.

Minister Jordan was pleased to note that: “All the citizens of Guyana can track the deposits and the amount in the account. In accordance to the law, the citizens will also be able to check the spending whenever that takes place.”

Jordan is pleased that there can be no distrust about whether these finances are being managed well as the Ministry of Finance, and government by extension has remained transparent in its dealings.

He has also previously noted that Guyana can begin to use these resources to address critical areas of need as soon as a new Parliament begins.

Meanwhile, Guyana is expected to make its third million-barrel crude lift in the first week of August.

This third lift of Guyana’s share of crude will mark the final for Shell Western Supply and Trading Limited under its contract to purchase Guyana’s first three cargoes.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Three new COVID-19 cases recorded in 24 hours -CMO urges Guyanese to celebrate upcoming holidays cautiously

THE novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to spread rapidly, as the country recorded three new cases within the past 24 hours.

Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr. Shamdeo Persaud, said authorities found those new cases after conducting 78 tests between Wednesday and Thursday.

Health authorities have so far tested 4,641 persons, with 4,240 being negative and 401 positive. Of the positive cases, 185 persons have recovered and 20 persons have lost their lives, but authorities are monitoring 195 active cases.

Dr. Persaud encouraged persons to be wary of the situation, especially with the long weekend ahead.

The country will be celebrating Eid-ul-Adha on Friday and Emancipation Day on Saturday, but the CMO advised persons to limit the “celebrations.”

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has cautioned countries globally about the safety measures that need to

be adopted, in order to prevent the further transmission of the raging coronavirus disease.

“On a national level, I also wish to state that our Muslim counterparts must be cognisant of the local COVID-19 situation and make the necessary adjustments so that exposure to the virus is nullified. This means that the practice of social distancing must be prioritised and strictly adhered to; no more than 10 persons congregating with visible six feet demarcations and more importantly, alternative arrangements must be put in place regarding the distribution of meat to the needy,” said Dr. Persaud.

Similarly, on Saturday, persons need to ensure that the COVID-19 guidelines are at the core of these celebrations.

“As we are about to celebrate over this long weekend, please remember that your health and safety are at risk.

Men, just forget your macho attitude, put on a mask and avoid rubbing shoulders. Six feet apart is a safe distance and the curfew is still in effect,” the

CMO advised.

While the measures apply nationally, persons in the

with more effort from all of us; in the city we need to make a behavioral change and respect

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud

hinterland regions need to be extra cautious because of the high infection rate recorded in those regions.

Two of the new cases are from Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), a region which has been identified as a hotspot for COVID-19.

“I am convinced that together we can flatten the curve

the health guidelines; in our hotspots Regions Seven and Nine which remain high-risk areas, you need to curtail your cross-border movement where exposure to the disease is uncontrollably high, and help to halt the imported cases; in our mining communities, the influx of migrants continues to contribute to the high inci-

dence of positive cases through their constant movement in and out of the communities,” said Dr. Persaud.

The CMO, in an update on Tuesday, had said persons need to take note of the existing situation, especially in the hinterland regions where cases continue to rise daily.

The country, in the early days of the pandemic, had grown accustomed to Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) being the epicentre for the disease, but this has since changed, and Regions Seven and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) are now the “hotspots” for the disease.

Region Nine shares a wide border with Brazil, where COVID-19 is rampant. Globally, Brazil ranks second for the most cases of COVID-19 after the United States of America, and has reported a total of 2,455,905 cases, with 88,017 deaths.

Dr. Persaud, however, sought to reassure persons that the Ministry of Public Health is doing everything possible to keep Guyanese safe.

“Residents, the ministry continues to plead with you to adhere to the health guidelines, and to intensify your community action. Village councillors, gate keepers and prominent members of the communities, your role is to work collectively to ensure compliance with the regulations if you wish to keep down the transmission of the disease,” said the CMO. Dr. Persaud further advised persons to stay at home and only leave if there is an urgent need, and to wear a mask in public. Persons were also encouraged to practice social distancing, avoid gatherings of more than 10 persons, and sanitise properly.

COVID-19 remains a serious issue not just here in Guyana, but globally as well, and according to global statistics, there are 16.5 million cases of COVID-19, with over 656,000 deaths. And, with no approved treatment or cure, there is no assurance that persons will survive after contracting the disease.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

d n a r Mothe s r e t h daug e t a n o i s s a p r i e h t about n a c i r Af e r u t l u c Natasha Dublin (right) and her daughters, Towana (centre) and Tonia

NATASHA Dublin and her two daughters are passionate businesswomen who share their culture and roots with everyone through their business endeavours.

Their business, Afrique Vogue, promotes their African culture and roots through items such as jewellery, African prints, leather slippers, handbags, clutches, dashikis and the deeras (a cul-

tural dress that African women would wear).

“Growing up, we were always amazed by our culture and by learning about our roots. We always liked the idea of sharing this knowledge and teaching others to embrace their culture,” 19-year-old Towana Miller, called ‘Smiley,’ told the Buzz on Thursday.

Before actually de-

ciding to start a business, the family travelled on vacation to various parts of the world that has a deep connection to their culture. Some of the places they visited include Ethiopia, South Africa, Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, the Philippines, and Thailand.

“My sister and mom fell in love with other people’s

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African prints for sofas and pillows covering

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

A

ims to empower black youths and foster change in the black community During the quarantine, young creatives have found ways and means to keep themselves active and created platforms to continue sharing their craft.

Spice & Clove was one that came a few weeks ago, created by Guyanese Poet, ‘The Olive’, with the motivation of Renata Burnette and Clinton Duncan.

The first edition was a huge success and showcased many talented Guyanese acts.

The second edition is slated for today, August 2, and given the significance of this Emancipation weekend, it is themed ‘Black Lives Matter’.

‘The Olive’ told ‘The Buzz’ that the indifference prevalent against people of African de-

scent is real, and the best way she believes she can channel how she feels is through her craft.

It is her belief, that through the arts, people will listen and be inspired. “People love entertainment so when you sneak some social commentary in it, it registers subliminally.

Proven fact,” the young woman said.

This is the aim of the Black Lives Matter edition on Sunday. “This is also more for the creatives. It’s 99 percent black creatives from around the world of Guyanese Heritage who need some spotlight for just being great. And from the last Spice and Clove I have inspired some others to start being more bold about their talents because I showed them that we take them seriously,” she said.

She added that Afro-Guyanese are not very “woke” so they continue to suffer oppression.

“Globalisation has really influenced the way

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Spice & Clove: Black Lives Matter Edition set for today we see ourselves and where we need to be.

Sometimes it’s good but other times it’s bad because we became detached from our reality since we’re focusing on other people’s own.

Many don’t believe BLM is applicable to Guyana because they don’t believe we got marginalised black youths here,” she said.

“The ‘six races’ excuses are used to gaslight and discredit the plight of black people. Our society has so much being normalised that for them it isn’t oppression, it’s necessary. So education is important. And what do young people like? Entertainment. Spice and Clove is culturally significant to me and us, the participants.”

This edition aims to bring light to oppression and be a wakeup call for change in the lives of black youths.

Although the concert is aimed at channelling the audience’s thoughts and feelings, educate and entertain the platform, ‘The Olive’ said that they also aim to allow Guyanese creatives to get the shine they deserve.

“It has always been my dream to create a network of creatives accessible to all and that’s what I’ve been working on. Some people are now trying to push-start their career or hobby and they started with Spice and Clove. Some have been on the scene but people don’t know

them. Well everyone is going to know every single Spice and Clove performer after I’m done. And those who had doubts of starting channels etc because of how Guyana treats the creative industry will be inspired to push through when they see people are listening,” the young firepower said.

Sharing some of the acts that will be featured on Sunday, the poet said: “I have an Artist living in Miami, Romell McLoed who will paint live. Some poetry of course from people currently living right here, London and the Islands. I got some rap music by great people and lovely singing by some of the best singers I know. Abike Barker (The Shady poet) performed last time and people were begging to see her again. She didn’t even think that could’ve been possible. But I’m happy she understands how valued her work is and to never give up cause somebody’s listening.

The creatives also have other things that they do, like Terrence Issacs has just written a book and I think things like that should be explosive news in Guyana.”

Persons can tune in on their Facebook page Spice and Clove at 19:00hrs tonight, to witness some of the amazing young black talents lined up.

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fighting ourselves

We are only

Micheal Griffith

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020 Guyana, the land of different faces and sibility of sending out a positive message of six ethnic is a plethora of diversity and unity to the Guyanese people. culture, and on any given day, especial“I believe it is imperative that we realise ly during festivities like Mashramani, or recognise our responsibility but at the Independence Day, Carnival and other same time being an artist I understand the cultural events, Guyanese can be seen importance of feeling like you have the aucelebrating and promoting their diversi- tonomy to be your true self even if [you’re] ty together in unity. not accepted as an ideal moral model, so I However, when the political season try to get different perspectives so personalcomes along, tensions run high. At such a ly I believe I have a responsibility,” he said. time when the atmosphere is tense in GuyGriffith, who uses the colours of Guyana, words and messages of togetherness ana’s flag the Golden Arrow Head in the and love are most needed. Using his plat- majority of his pieces, noted that he does form to share just that, digital artist Micheal so in most of his drawings to amplify the Griffith has been using his talents to pour love and unity into the atmosphere and urge message that at the end of the day after fighting and belittling each other, “We Guyanese to stop the political rhetoric.

In one of his most famous patriotic are all Guyanese and we all belong to the pieces, Griffith drew a picture of the leaders same place; we all belong to the same land. of the two dinosaur political parties in a It is literally a case of us fighting against warm loving embrace. ourselves.”

He told The Buzz that the portrait was In one of other his pieces, Griffith drew in inspired by the events leading up to the two men fighting on the country’s flag. events of the previous elections in 2015, He noted that the two men represent the however to date, the message of the portrait supporters of the two main political parties is still relevant and even more powerful as in the country fighting against each other Guyana has been in a political impasse for which, in the end, is senseless. the last four months.

“I used the flag to drive home this idea.

“I wanted to perpetuate or at least plant Fortunately the flag was perfect since it had the seed of no matter what happens Guyana two of the colours that represented the two is ours and it belongs to every Guyanese main political parties that a lot of the hate including the leaders and it’s something was being transferred between,” he said. we should keep in the back of our minds Griffith, who is 34-years-old, told The ...Guyana is the priority,” Griffith said.

Buzz that he has always had a knack for He noted that having a platform should the arts and has been drawing for as long amplify the impact and the responsibility as he could remember, however, he has one has to their fellow brothers and sisters; been drawing professionally for the past with his talent, he believes he as the respon- eleven years.

Guyanese Artist promoting peace and harmony through digital art

A digital art piece done by Griffith using the colours of the Golden Arrowhead to drive the message of ‘Guyana is all of we own’

One of Griffith’s pieces depicting President David Granger and Bharrat Jagdeo embracing each other

A few of Griffith’s patriotic digital drawings

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Sony Music Publishing has Guyanese representation

Sony Entertainment is one of the dragons in the international music industry, and only the best of the best are privileged to get into that clan.

The Buzz discovered recently that the Vice President, Creative, at Sony ATV Music Publishing is of Guyanese Heritage.

In a recent interview, the VP, Ian Holder said that he is the proud product of two Guyanese parents. His father, he said, hails from Bartica, in Region Seven, and his mother from Georgetown.

Though he never travelled to Guyana, Holder said that some of the cultures were passed on to him from his parents, like the Curry and Roti, and the Pepperpot every Christmas Eve. He said the plan is to visit Guyana for the first time sometime in the future to learn more about his heritage.

The young man became

very successful in the music industry after working his way up from an intern to a VP in publishing.

Holder said that he was clueless about this position he now holds when he first started in music industry.

“I wanted to just be an A&R [Artists and repertoire representative]. I started off as an intern working at Sony on the label side, and I think me getting into music, started like everybody else. I started as an artist- a rapper.

I had goals of being the next Roc-A-Fella records, starting my own label. But I knew nothing, I had no experience, no relationships, and at some point, I knew I needed some of that,” he said.

He also said that his success is credited with hard work and persistence, since he had no connections in the music industry.

“I had no friends who had someone in the business who could give me a shot. I had to claw my way the best I could, for any opportunity.

So over time, one opportunity turned into another, which led me to where I’m at now.

Before here, I was at BMI which is a performing rights organisation. I was there for 10 years. Signed a lot of great people, Post Malone being one of them. ASAP Rocky and a lot of other folks along the way. I came to Sony ATV in 2017,” he shared.

When asked how would a Guyanese act get recognition in the industry, Holder said that he looks at the energy given off from the creative, their passion, and how the fans and the people in the community are responding, the response and love that they get from the work that they put out.

He said that he is driven by the passion he has for fill-

Mother and daughters...

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culture,” Towana said during an interview with this publication. She is the only one who hasn’t done any real travelling, as she said she is focusing on completing her studies at the University of Guyana. Afterwards, she said she definitely plans to join her mom and sister in travelling.

The travelling team would bring back items for sale through their business which is online-based at the moment. Persons can place their orders online via their Instagram and Facebook Pages, and it would subsequently be delivered to them.

When the business started last year February, it was basically offering items to family and close friends. This year, though, after investing in some advertising, the business has been expanded to cover anyone who is interested.

“In celebration of Emancipation, we have an ongoing sale where we are offering everything at a discounted price. We have a different price range because we want to accommodate all income brackets,” Towana related.

The Coronavirus Pandemic

(COVID-19) has put a damper on the business, however. The situation has impacted how items are usually brought into the country. As such, items that have been on hand are the ones being offered in the sale at the moment.

T h e team hopes to be able to expand their physical location and to be able to include other cultures in their work.

Vice President, Creative, at Sony ATV Music Publishing, Ian Holder, whose parents are Guyanese

ing voids in young creatives’ lives, to take them to the place where they’re deserving to be with their talent and skill.

Referencing one of his recent mentees, Jack Harlow, he said they would talk several times a week, giving guidance, and now Jack Harlow is starting to take off, “and he’s no way near where he’s going

to be,” he said.

Holder said everyone is going to get doubters along the way when paving their own path, but he had to do something that he is passionate about and work his way up. And that is exactly how a person should pattern their life.

“I know music was going to be the next step, and I

took the plunge. I learned the business with the internship I did and gradually moved up the ladder to where I am now.

I wanted to do something where I can have an impact,” he said.

He also has an Arts programme for high school teens, where he teaches them about the various career paths in music.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Windies legend Sir Everton hailed as revolutionary, nation-builder

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – Sir Everton Weekes was on Thursday immortalised as a “special gift of grace, gentility and greatness” and also hailed as a working class hero and nation-builder, as the country and region bid farewell to the West Indies legend who passed away earlier this month.

In an official funeral staged at the storied Kensington Oval on the fringes of the capital, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles told a gathering which included Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Governor General Dame Sandra Mason, that Sir Everton had defied his historical and social origins to claim his place at the pinnacle of global success.

Noting that Sir Everton had been “little in physical form and less so in monetary value”, Sir Hilary pointed out that the outstanding Barbadian had still emerged as “the greatest giant in a global world filled with giants, completing the near impossible climb to the top.”

“Sir Everton was one of the greatest revolutionaries of our Caribbean world because he deliberately designed a method to turn this [colonial] history upon its head,” Sir Hilary said in a compelling eulogy.

“He was a disturber of the colonial peace that denied any justice.

He emerged as a dignified man, representing everything he was not meant to be.

“If ever a bat became a bridge, if ever a bat became a beacon, if ever a bat became a baton, it was the bat in the hands of Everton DeCourcey Weekes.”

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley (centre) along with Professor Hilary Beckles (left) and close friend of the Weekes family, Adrian Donovan, lay a wreath on the grave of Sir Everton Weekes.

The last surviving member of the famed Three Ws, Sir Everton died on July 1 at age 95, following a period of ill health.

Long heralded as one of the finest batsmen to have graced the game, Sir Everton churned out 4455 runs from 48 Tests between 1948 and 1958 at an average of 58, after making his international debut at age 22.

His feat of becoming the first ever batsman to score five Test centuries in consecutive innings remains a record still to be broken.

However, Sir Hilary contended

that while Sir Everton’s amazing record of performance spoke volumes, his life also reflected a story of achievement and triumph nearly impossible to obscure.

“Numbers are never enough.

Behind the figures reside a configuration of life and living. It is the grand narrative of which they are merely a part. Behind the numbers, there is the hidden history. With Sir Everton, the truth of this history is even more palpable,” said the Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies.

“He became the first Barbadian to be classified and celebrated as number one in the world in any approved and respected endeavour,” added the leading regional academic, in reference to Sir Everton’s designation by Wisden in 1951 as one of its five Cricketers-of-the-Year.

“This was a seismic, seminal moment. Barbados, not yet a nation-state and under colonial oppression, had received its first international endorsement as a place that produced performance excellence.

“The island entered the annals of international popular culture as a society that gave life and nurture to a native recognised as a special gift to humanity.”

Sir Hilary also underscored Sir Everton’s contribution to national development, describing his emergence as a world class figure as one of the driving forces in creating a new national consciousness.

“He was the metaphor that defined the mentality necessary for the making of a nation. He placed his country and region above the cruelty of history. He became the champion of achievement and liberation of our people with dignity,” Sir Hilary asserted.

“The masses that followed Marcus Garvey into rejecting colonialism in preference of democracy had produced an icon that represented their dreams for future generations.”

National Hero, the Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers, headed a distinguished list of mourners which included legendary fast bowler Sir Wes Hall, Sir Gordon Greenidge, Desmond Haynes, Joel Garner, Charlie Griffith, and former West Indies captain Brian Lara who was a pallbearer.

Sir Everton’s son, the former West Indies wicketkeeper David Murray, was also in attendance along with Barbados Cricket Association president and Cricket West Indies director, Conde Riley, and UWI Cave Hill principal, Professor Eudine Barriteau.

Sir Everton was buried at Three Ws Oval of the UWI Cave Hill Campus, alongside Sir Frank Worrell who died in 1967 and Sir Clyde Walcott who passed away in 2006.

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

World Test Championship progressing as planned, says ICC The very first WTC was due to be completed by the end of March 2021, each of the nine sides having played six series home and away over a two-year period. The top two sides would then play a final, planned for next summer in the UK. But that schedule has been thrown into disarray because of the impact of the pandemic, and only now are members working out ways with the ICC to reschedule their commitments.

Priority at the moment is on the six series already postponed: Sri Lanka vs England, one Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh, Bangladesh vs Australia, West Indies vs South Africa, Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh and Bangladesh vs New Zealand.

“We’re in discussions with the members now with rescheduling

of the series that have been postponed to date,” Geoff Allardice, the ICC’s general manager cricket operations, said.

“With the English summer looking like getting both the Test series through, the next ones I know there’s been some talk in the media about West Indies v South Africa are looking to find a suitable time. But outside that series, the next scheduled ones are in late November in New Zealand.

So, the focus will come back on the six postponed series and when they might be able to be replayed.

“With some of them, discussions are underway but we’re in the process of getting updates from all member countries as to what they’re looking at. At the moment, everything is proceeding as planned. The series on in England right now are part of the

WTC and all of the series that have been identified will be part of the Championships. It’s about getting a feel for whether they can all be completed within the competition window ending in March next year.”

But given the fluid nature of the impacts of the pandemic - with some countries still to reach a peak and others experiencing, or on the verge of, an expected second wave - decisions won’t be taken quickly.

Unlike with the T20 World Cup, which was eventually postponed earlier this month, there isn’t a pressing need for a cut-off date by which decisions need to be taken.

“In the last few months, we’ve learned that things change quite quickly,” Allardice said. “One week you think that you’re not going to play for a while and then things begin to open up at a

government level and then all of a sudden, things look possible.

“A lot of the series we are talking about, if we are saying November-December, January-February, they are six to eight months away and it’s still hard to predict where things will be in some countries that far out. We haven’t got a firm drop-dead date in mind. We are going to get a feel in the next month or two from member countries about when they’ll be able to resume and what their upcoming seasons look like, including the matches and series they need to reschedule that have been postponed.”

The next cycle of international cricket could also see efforts made to include an international T20 league in the calendar. The idea was discussed during the planning stages for this cycle but the con-

straints of the existing FTP meant it went no further.

“It was something that was discussed at length and continues to be talked about in terms of how do you achieve it practically,” Allardice said. “What is the right number of teams, the format of the competition? Sometimes you couple ODIs series with Tests series, so how do you do something different without making the league the same number of teams against the same opponents but in T20Is as well?

“Ideally you’d like to incorporate more teams in a Twenty20 structure. Given the constraints of the FTP we were looking at a few years ago, it was a bridge too far then but that doesn’t mean it won’t be on the things we’re trying to achieve in the next calendar.” (ESPN Cricinfo).

Willey, Billings produce

career-best figures as England beat Ireland in 1st ODI

SOUTHAMPTON, England (Reuters) - Sam Billings struck a career-best unbeaten 67 as England overcame a mini-wobble to claim an emphatic six-wicket victory over Ireland in a Cricket World Cup Super League OneDay International on Thursday.

After being sent into bat, Ireland slipped to 28 for five in a horror start, but recovered to post 172 all out in a first competitive game for four months for many players in their side.

World champions England scored at a good rate in reply but lost four wickets inside the opening 14 overs to give the visitors a sniff of victory.

But Billings and captain Eoin Morgan (36 not out), a former Ireland international, put on 96 for the fifth wicket to secure victory with 22.1 overs to spare.

England were without a number of regulars who are preparing for the Test series against Pakistan next week, but returning seamer David Willey had Ireland in early trouble as he picked up career-best figures of 5-30 in a fine display of swing bowling.

The visitors’ innings was rescued by South African-born all-rounder Curtis Campher, 21, who was unbeaten on 59 on debut to go with 1-26 with the ball.

He put on 66 for the eighth wicket

David Willey celebrates one of his wickets against Ireland on Thursday (Twitter/Irelandcricket)

with Andy McBrine (40) to give Ireland something to defend.

Jason Roy (24) and James Vince (25) both got starts for England in their reply and there was a murmur of excitement in the visiting camp when they had their hosts 78 for four.

But the experience of Morgan and

clean-hitting of Billings, who struck 11 fours, took the game away from the Irish, who will look for improvement in the second match of three at the same venue tomorrow.

The Super League will be used to determine the eight qualified teams for the next World Cup in India in 2023.

Broad says he could be last paceman in ‘500 club’ MANCHESTER, United Kingdom (AFP) — Stuart Broad said changes to the global cricket calendar could mean he will be the last paceman to take 500 Test wickets.

Broad reached the landmark figure by trapping Kraigg Brathwaite plumb lbw as England completed a dominant 269-run win in the third Test against the West Indies at Old Trafford yesterday that saw the hosts to a 2-1 series victory.

The 34-year-old Broad is only the seventh bowler

in history to have taken 500 Test wickets and the fourth quick.

When Fred Trueman became the first man to take 300 Test wickets back in 1964, the outstanding England fast bowler, asked if anyone might break his record, reportedly replied: “Aye, but whoever does will be bloody tired.”

Broad, whose One-Day International career was effectively ended by England in 2016 to keep him going in the Test match arena, said scheduling would now be

the issue for a fast bowler wanting to join him in the ‘500 club’.

“Someone is going to have to play a lot of cricket because there is a lot of competition out there, between different T20 league franchises, 100-ball.”

Broad, who also marked his 140th Test with a match haul of 10-67, added: “I feel very lucky to have played for England in an era where we’ve played a lot of Test cricket in the summer and a lot in the winter.

“I think there’s talk of

thinning the amount of Tests we play in a summer down.”

Among active bowlers, only Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon, with 390 Test wickets, would appear to have much hope of becoming the eighth member of a select group.

Anderson inspiration “You need a lot of Test matches to get 500 wickets,” said Broad.

“I think there’ll be people who have the talent to get the numbers but whether they’ll be able to play the

amount of Test cricket the seam bowlers have to get that feat remains to be seen,” he added.

Broad’s long-time newball colleague James Anderson, who is approaching 600 Test wickets, suggested before play yesterday that the Nottinghamshire seamer could surpass his eventual tally.

“I’ve never even thought about that,” said Broad. “(But) why not try and follow in Jimmy’s footsteps?

He’s been wonderful to play with.

“If I keep bowling the way I am for the next few years then I wouldn’t rule anything out.”

Broad ended the West Indies series as the leading bowler on either side, with 16 wickets at a miserly average of 10.93, despite being controversially left out of England’s defeat in the first Test at Southampton.

“I thought ‘where am I going here?’” admitted Broad. “I’m glad I stayed strong because I’m very happy two weeks later.”

25

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

Swiss launch criminal probe of FIFA boss Infantino

By Brenna Hughes Neghaiwi

ZURICH (Reuters) - Criminal proceedings have been opened against FIFA president Gianni Infantino by a special prosecutor looking into dealings between the head of the global soccer body and Swiss Attorney General Michael Lauber, Swiss authorities said on Thursday.

The special prosecutor Stefan Keller, appointed last month to review complaints against the two men and others, had found indications of criminal conduct related to their meetings, according to the AB-BA watchdog which oversees the Attorney General’s Office.

“This concerns abuse of public office, breach of official secrecy, assisting offend-

ers and incitement to these acts,” the watchdog said in a statement. Both Lauber and Infantino have denied wrongdoing.

FIFA said in a statement that it would cooperate fully while Infantino said that it was “perfectly legitimate and perfectly legal” to meet the Swiss Attorney General. “It’s not a violation of anything,” he said.

“It has been my aim from day one, and it remains my aim, to assist the authorities with investigating past wrongdoings at FIFA,” he added. “FIFA officials have met with prosecutors in other jurisdictions across the world for exactly these purposes.”

Infantino was elected in 2016 to replace disgraced Sepp Blatter, who also become the subject of criminal proceedings in 2015.

Blatter, suspected of criminal mismanagement, was banned by FIFA’s own ethics committee although the investigations against him are still ongoing and he has not been charged. He denies wrongdoing.

On being elected, Infantino promised to clean up FIFA and to put the focus back on football.

FIFA was embroiled in the worst corruption scandal in its history in 2015 which led to several officials being indicted in the United States on corruption-related charges.

Lauber last week offered to resign after the Federal Administrative Court concluded he had covered up a meeting with Infantino and lied to supervisors while his office investigated corruption surrounding soccer’s govern-

Gianni Infantino was re-elected for a second term as FIFA president in June 2019

ing body..

The court said he had made “implausible” statements about a meeting with Infantino.

While Lauber had acknowledged two meetings with Infantino in 2016, he had denied a third meeting reported by media to have occurred in 2017, prompting a disciplinary probe by the agency that supervises the attorney general’s office.

He later said he did not recall the third meeting but that it must have occurred based on diary entries and text messages.

Lauber officially tendered his resignation on Tuesday, his office said, with his last day of active duty set for Aug. 31.

The AB-BA watchdog said Keller had now opened proceedings against both Infantino and regional public

prosecutor Rinaldo Arnold who was involved in the meetings, and was seeking parliamentary approval to have Lauber’s immunity from prosecution waived.

“I take note of the fact that a lawsuit has been opened. This is actually a logical step to clarify the facts,” Arnold told Reuters.

“It should be mentioned that a case against me was closed last spring last year.”

PCB expects England to ‘do the right thing’ in 2022

PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan

LAHORE, Pakistan (Reuters) - Pakistan’s decision to tour England despite the risks of travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic was not part of a reciprocal agreement but the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expects its English counterpart to “do the right thing” in 2022.

Pakistan are the second Test team, after West Indies, to tour England this summer. They will play three tests, the first beginning on Wednesday, and three Twenty20 Internationals in bio-secure venues in Manchester and Southampton.

England last visited Pakistan in 2005 and are slated to return in 2022, but the top teams have

so far declined to tour since a 2009 attack on Sri Lanka’s team bus in Lahore.

PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan said on Thursday that the tour of England would stand them in good stead.

“Will that benefit Pakistan cricket in future?

Of course it will,” he told a PCB podcast.

“Have we struck a deal with them right now for them to come? ... Of course we didn’t. Now is not the time to do that. It’s all about timing.

“Conversations will take place with ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and they will do the right thing by us as well.”

After years of staging ‘home’ tests in neutral venues due to security concerns, Pakistan played their first test on home soil since 2009 against Sri Lanka in December last year and have hosted Bangladesh this year.

Khan said the PCB had put the game’s interests ahead of its own.

“We are making decisions not just for what’s good for Pakistan, but what’s right for global cricket.

“Showing solidarity is absolutely the right thing for us to be doing. West Indies are doing it, we’ve done it.”

Brazilian star Oscar says he would play for China Shanghai , China (AFP) — F ormer Chelsea attacking midfielder Oscar says he would be willing to ditch his Brazilian passport to play for China — if Fifa changed its rules.

Oscar, who moved from the Premier League to Chinese Super League (CSL) side Shanghai SIPG for a still-Asian-record 60 million euros in January 2017, made the last of his 48 appearances for Brazil in 2015.

Under current rules, the 28-yearold cannot switch to play for another country because he featured for Brazil in official competition, including the 2014 World Cup in his homeland.

Asked by State broadcaster CGTN

if he would consider playing for China if the naturalisation rules changed, Oscar replied: “I can think about it because, as I said, it’s difficult to go to the Brazilian national team now because I’m here.

“But in China everyone sees how good I play so if in the end the China national team needs a good midfielder, I think I can help if they change.

“I like China but the players now, if they change the nationality to go to China, they (the team) can do better.”

As a quick fix to boost their Qatar 2022 World Cup hopes, China last year began naturalising a few players who had no family links to the world’s most

populous country.

The first was Brazilian-born striker Elkeson, 31, who is now known as Ai Kesen and has played four times for China, scoring three goals. At least two other Brazilians are believed to have been naturalised since.

Oscar has been one of the top players in the Chinese Super League since arriving from Chelsea and topped the assists charts over the past two seasons.

SIPG began their CSL campaign yesterday against Tianjin Teda at a neutral venue behind closed doors, part of measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus infections.

Brazilian midfielder Oscar celebrates after scoring his second goal for Chelsea during the English FA Cup fourth-round match against MK Dons at Stadium MK in Milton Keynes, central England, in this 2016 file photo.

(Photo: AFP)

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

No guarantee Hetmyer, Bravo and Paul would have made a difference – Holder

WEST Indies captain Jason Holder is not certain the inclusion of batsmen Darren Bravo, Shimron Hetmyer, and all-rounder Keemo Paul would have made a difference to the team’s fortunes, following a series loss to England.

The trio was invited to the tour but declined to participate due to concerns surrounding the spread of the coronavirus.

Despite not being in rich veins of form, Hetmyer and Bravo are considered to be two of the team’s most talented and dangerous batsmen and Paul a promising all-rounder.

Despite an average performance from the bowling line-up, the team on occasion found themselves well short of batting, particularly in the final Test where they could only manage 326 in both innings.

England, by comparison, made 369 in the first innings. Based on the conditions Holder, however, does believe the batsmen’s

inclusion would necessarily have helped the situation.

“I’m very happy with the team we brought up here. The team we brought up here is a part of our Test team. There is no guarantee that Bravo, Hetmyer or Paul would play,” Holder told members of the media via a Zoom press conference interview.

“The way we’ve gone as a batting unit, we haven’t had the consistency we have been looking for. If you look at two of the three players they are batsmen so there is no guarantee and Paul was a back-up to what we had here so far,” Holder said.

“The squad we had here was the squad to do it. I’m happy with the guys who came and the work we put in. It’s unfortunate the way it turned out but there are still lots of positives,” he added.

(Sportsmax).

West Indies batsman Shimron Hetmyer

World Athletics to expel Russia’s federation if fine unpaid by August 15

By Gabrielle Tétrault-Farber, Brian Homewood MOSCOW/BERN (Reuters) - The global governing body for athletics will expel Russia’s federation, suspended since 2015 for having broken anti-doping rules, if it fails to pay a hefty fine before Aug. 15, it said on Thursday.

Rune Andersen, chair of the taskforce overseeing Russia’s reinstatement efforts, said it had received a guarantee from Russian Sports Minister Oleg Matytsin that a payment of $6.31 million (4.85 million pounds), which includes a fine for breaching anti-doping rules, would be made before mid-August. The federation had missed the initial deadline of July 1.

The expulsion, which would have to be approved by the World Athletics Congress, would lead to Russian athletes being sidelined from international competitions, including those who had previously been authorised to compete as neutrals.

World Athletics said the decision would come into effect immediately and automatically if the payment was not made by the new deadline. It said no Russian athletes could be clear to compete internationally as neutrals until that condition was met.

It added the federation needs to submit a new plan for reform and show satisfactory progress in achieving its objectives.

“At least we are now in a position to continue the reinstatement process having had a clear

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(FRIDAY JULY 31, 2020)COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 6839500) &CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz (1)Viv Richards (291); Dennis Amiss (203) (2)Jermaine Lawson (WI vs AUST, Barbados,

2003)

Today’s Quiz: (1) Who was the first player to register a ‘golden

duck’ in the recent WI/ENG Test series?

(2)How many times Carl Hooper captained the WI

in Tests?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

indication that the have accepted the seriousness and severity of the situation,” World Athletics President Sebastian Coe told an online news conference.

“The proof of the pudding will be in the reinstatement plan we have from them.”

Russia’s athletics federation was suspended in 2015 after

a report commissioned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) found evidence of mass doping among track and field athletes.

Despite working towards reinstatement, the federation’s senior officials and coaches have continued to find themselves embroiled in doping scandals.

This week the federation had asked World Athletics to delay its decision on its status, saying it did not have enough funds to cover the fine and other fees and that it was still searching for external funding.

The federation’s handling of the doping crisis and its fallout has angered some of the

country’s top athletes, including three-times world high jump champion Maria Lasitskene, who has been among the federation’s most vocal critics.

Some athletes have said they could consider representing other countries if they are indefinitely barred from competing on the global stage.

‘CONCACAF could have eight World Cup spots for 2026’

-Montagliani wants region to take advantage of opportunity CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani has asserted the confederation is looking to fill eight spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, United States and Mexico.

The ambitious plan could come to fruition as a part of a unique set of circumstances that surround the competition.

As hosts of the tournament Canada, Mexico and the United States will automatically be granted spots.

The situation will leave the region’s normal three and a half spots available to CONCACF’s other teams. In addition, however, because it won the bid to host the tournament, Concacaf will receive another half spot.

Jamaica in action at the 1998 World Cup.

Half spots are confederation playoffs between teams, which sees the winners advancing to the tournament.

According to Montagliani, a major part of the

confederation’s focus will be on ensuring the region is able to take full advantage of the situation.

“What has been confirmed is that we have six

direct spots and then we have a half a spot, which means we go to a playoff.

Now, because we also won the bid and we won the right to host the World Cup, we gained another half a spot.

So, that means we have six plus two halves,” Montagliani explained to the SportsMax Zone in an interview on Monday.

“I’ve been very clear that one of the reasons we are investing in the League of Nations, expanded Gold Cup and all the things that we are doing is because we really want to set that bar that we have eight CONCACAF nations at the 2026 World Cup if we can win those play-off spots.”(Sportsmax)

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 31, 2020

‘WI batsmen technically deficient and ill-prepared’ -Radford

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – Former West Indies batting coach Toby Radford has questioned the preparation and technical approach by the side’s batsmen during the just concluded Test series, and also believes the Caribbean unit placed undue pressure on their seam attack by not rotating their squad.

Speaking in the wake of the Windies’ 2-1 defeat to England in the three-Test series, Radford said the touring side’s batsmen had shown several technical deficiencies against the moving ball and appeared especially unprepared for what should have been a predictable line of attack from Stuart Broad.

“We were fine until Stuart Broad played. When Stuart Broad plays, he bowls mid to wide crease, angles the ball in and then nips it back in sharply.

You’ve got to get out, you’ve got to kill the movement, you’ve got to kill the lengths so you’ve got to get forward,” said Radford who oversaw the batting group when West Indies retained the Wisden Trophy with a convincing series win in the Caribbean last year.

“What we did in 2017 (tour of England) and last year in the Caribbean is we batted outside of the crease to negate his length – you take his length away.

“What the guys were doing is staying in the crease and a lot of them, for whatever reason, were mis-judging the length believing the ball was short when it was still a good length and then it was nipping quickly back off the length.”

He continued: “You’ve got to get outside the crease, alter your guard to cater for the amount of movement. I didn’t see them doing that.

“The other thing we used to do is between matches, we would set up the bowling machine to replicate what you get

played back-to-back, West Indies were also guilty of failing to freshen up their attack by making use of the reserve bowlers available.

After the first Test, the Caribbean side’s bowlers appeared

Former West Indies batting coach Toby Radford.

from Stuart Broad. When you [review] all the wickets [that fell], all these lbws, the minute the ball is coming out the hand, the batter has gone early to where the ball is starting and then they are already falling across the line.”

With Broad rested, West Indies won the first Test at Southampton by four wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the series but with hopes raised of their first series win on English soil in 32 years, things quickly fell apart.

In the second Test at Old Trafford, they capitulated in both innings to crash to a 113run defeat with Broad returning for his first Test to grab six wickets in the contest.

The 32-year-old then produced a 10-wicket match haul in the third Test days later at the same venue as West Indies’ batsmen perished meekly for 197 and 129, to plunge to a heavy 269-run loss.

Radford, who was ousted from the coaching setup in a management shake-up ahead of last year’s World Cup in England, also told Starcom Radio’s Mason and Guests that while he was unaware of the goings-on inside the Windies camp, tar-

geted planning to combat Broad should have taken place between the second and final Tests.

“There are drills you can do, very simple drills that we used to do on the machine to replicate what you get in the middle,” the Englishman explained.

“Now what I would have hoped after Stuart Broad knocked them over in the second Test match, I would like to think they all got together with the backroom staff and said ‘right, we know what they’re coming with, we know what they’re going to do. They’re going to bowl dead straight and angle the ball in’ and work on that.

“I don’t know what’s going on in there, whether they worked on those areas because then you nullify their best bowler. And one bloke has basically bowled out the team. Jofra Archer didn’t bowl us out, no one else bowled out West Indies team – it was only Stuart Broad.

“All you had to do was come up with a method and practice the method to cope with that.”

Radford, a former head of the region’s High Performance Centre, said with the matches

jaded and only managed to dismiss England once in the next four innings.

“England rotated eight seam bowlers. They were always resting a couple of seamers so every time their bowlers played

they were fresh,” Radford pointed out.

“As the tour went on, for whatever reason, we didn’t use our backup bowlers. We carried on using the [same] bowlers all the way through.”

Windies legend Sir Everton hailed as

revolutionary,

nationbuilder

PAGE

23

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley (centre) along with Professor Hilary Beckles (left) and close friend of the Weekes family, Adrian Donovan, lay a wreath on the grave of Sir Everton Weekes.

Former West Indies batsman Desmond Haynes (left) and Adrian Donovan leading the casket of Sir Everton Weekes through the guard of honour. (Picture by Kenmore Bynoe) Nation News)

Sir Everton’s last innings at Kensington Oval Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

FORMER West Indies batting icon Sir Everton Weekes graced the crease at Kensington Oval for his final innings on Thursday morning.

Governor General Dame Sandra Mason and Prime Minister Mia Mottley led a gathering filled with dignitaries as Government ministers and ex-Cabinet members attended the funeral service.

The Who’s Who of West Indies cricket, past and present players, including Sir Garfield Sobers, Sir Wes Hall, Sir Charles Griffith and Sir Gordon Greenidge, among others, paid respect to Sir Everton.

President of the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) Conde Riley, former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bradshaw and Empire Club President Adrian King delivered tributes.

There was also a moving musical tribute by The Most Honourable Anthony “Gabby” Carter. mighty-gabby Professor Sir Hilary Beckles eulogised the man who scored 4 455 Test runs at an average of 58.61 in 48 matches while Reverend Dr Jeffrey Gibson delivered the sermon.

As the service came to an end, the casket bearing Sir Everton’s body was escorted from the region’s cricket mecca draped in the Cricket West Indies flag, to a guard of honour.

Sir Everton died on July 1, 2020 at the age of 95, five runs short of his life century. He was interred at UWI Cave Hill. (AGB). (Extracted from Nation News).

FRIDAY,JULY 31, 2020