61 minute read
in Region Three
Police have a woman reporting to CID every day since August 26
former Minister of Health, Volda Lawrence
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Chairperson of “Mr. Mingo had three the People’s national charges. One of forgery Congress and former for which he has been Minister of Health, Volda jointly charged with Ms. Lawrence, made another Joseph, and two others of of what has become conspiracy.” a pilgrimage to the This time the bail
Georgetown Magistrates’ Court today. Again she was slapped with charges pertaining to electoral fraud.
Also appearing alongside her and charged with conspiracy was PNC activist, Carol Joseph.
Attorney at Law, Nigel Hughes, accompanied by attorney Darren Wade was later required to address the situation.
“Ms. Volda Lawrence, Mr. Clairmont Mingo and Ms. Carol Smith-Joseph were all charged. Ms. Volda Lawrence had one charge, Ms. Carol SmithJoseph had three charges. Two were of conspiracy to defraud. She was jointly charged with Ms. Lawrence. amount was $30,000 on each charge. The matter has been adjourned to October 28.
Mr. Hughes said that the charges are the same that have been applied. At the same time the defence has not seen any statements in relation to any of the charges.
“Both Ms. Lawrence and Ms. Joseph attended video-recorded interviews at which the same questions were asked of them previously.
“These were repeated yesterday. So one is at a loss to find out the basis for these charges, particularly when they are existing charges.
“Ms. Joseph is of course appearing before the court for the first time.”
Mr. Hughes said that today, like any other time when his clients have had to appear in court, he asked that for the purposes of efficiency the prosecution should bring all the charges at one time. This would allow for the defence to determine the most efficient way to have the charges heard by the different magistrates.
“Bringing them in drips every week or every two days does not help, particularly when you have reported to the courts that you have not completed your investigations. Leary, she has to travel from West Coast Berbice.”
He said that this could be a burden, especially at this time of COVID. Organising the charges would be a help to these people, according to Mr. Hughes.
“Of course, if you complete your investigation, you have one mass interview, then they come to court to deal with the charges.
“These charges may be without foundation but we will address them at the time. But having them come every day, every two days every week; the administration probably has some other intent.” since August 26. One has a sick mother living way over the river. (This woman) got to come every day and report. That is money that she has to spend that she doesn’t have.
“This morning when the other name was calling in there, in court, she was in CID.”
The police had sent charges for this woman while they had her sitting at CID headquarters, Eve Leary. And there was evidence of continued Prison. An intensive harassment.
Ms. Lawrence said that those charged were requested to report to court for 9:00 this morning. The charges did not arrive until after 10:00.
“This is harassment. This is nothing to do with law and order and forgery and what else. This is just harassment.
“In my own purview, I feel that they got to please somebody so every other week they got to march us to CID.”
The matter has been
Three more escape from Lusignan Prison
“Our proposal was that Ms. Lawrence was one they take a long date so frustrated woman. “Come when they are confident back for Act 1; Scene 5. that they have concluded Come back before the their investigations we Chief Magistrate. Today would be aware of all the they read several charges charges. against myself and my
“At that stage we could sister. And let me tell you sit down and decide which the truth, I stop listening. cases could go forward, “Let them just do which cases are not what they think they can going forward and which continue to do here on witnesses are going to earth and God would do come. the rest.”
“The present way in But there was which they have elected something upsetting to conduct this results in amidst all the happenings. great inconvenience to And these happenings all the people charged. involve the women Mr. Mingo has to travel employed by the Guyana from West Coast Berbice; Elections Commission. Ms. Joseph, every time “I was very touched she has to go to the CID when I heard they had Headquarters at Eve been reporting to CID
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Three inmates who manhunt for the prisoners are said to be facing is currently underway as murder-related charges investigations continue. have escaped from the Police are asking Lusignan Prison. persons to report any
They have been suspicious individuals or identified as Mark Rafino, activities to the nearest Alex Mathias and Arnold police station or call 225Kennedy. 6411.
Rafino was committed The Lusignan prison to stand trial for the has experienced several attempted murder of a escapes and incidents of barber at Richmond. He violence over the last few was granted bail and was months. also on trial for the robbery Leroy Graham escaped of a money changer and from a burnt section of the his daughter. prison on September 21
Matthias was accused and just over a week later, of the murder of a man at James Moore, escaped Pomona Housing Scheme while he was placed on in December 2018 kitchen duty.
Kennedy and several Two inmates were others were accused of the killed by prison officers murder of Alvin Seenarine, during a riot that occurred called ‘Chockoloo’, of following a visit from the 820 ‘G’ Zeelugt North, Minister of Health and the East Bank Essequibo in Minister of Home Affairs. July 2019. On October 16, prisoners
A report from Police attempted to kill Aszim Headquarters said that Shivgobin who was on the prisoners escaped remand for the murder by jumping the south of Canadian citizen, eastern fence of the Nicholas Jaipaul. adjourned Tucville, Georgetown, Guyana, Tel: 592-623-9971
$500M worth of cocaine found in charcoal shipment in Paraguay
(BBC) Police in Paraguay have found a record 2.3 tonnes of cocaine hidden among a charcoal shipment destined for Israel.
They said the drugs had
an estimated street value of $500m (£383m). It is the largest drugs seizure police have made in the South American country.
The cocaine was found in a container at Terport, a private port in the city of Villeta, near the capital, Asunción.
Two people have been detained, one of them a former director of a state TV channel.
The police said the cocaine, neatly packed into parcels, was found in one of six containers. The five remaining containers are still to be searched and police did not rule out that they, too, could contain drugs.
Interior Minister Euclides Acevedo said the final haul could amount to more than three tonnes.
Charcoal, a key Latin American export, has become a popular cover for trafficking cocaine across international borders.
While the containers’ final destination was marked as Israel, the shipment was due to make
stops in the Argentine capital, Buenos Aires, and in the Belgian city of Antwerp, Mr Acevedo said.
A tip-off from Belgium reportedly alerted Paraguayan police to the drugs shipment in the first place.
Paraguayan counternarcotics officials think the cocaine was brought to Paraguay by air from Bolivia, the world’s third biggest producer of the drug.
Paraguay has been a key transit country for drugs for years. Some of Brazil’s most notorious criminal gangs, such as First Capital Command (PCC), have expanded across the border into Paraguay.
Paraguay’s previous biggest cocaine haul was seized in February 2019 and weighed 2.2 tonnes. That time, the drugs were hidden in a vehicle in the northern Concepción region.
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TRINIDAD BUSINESSES ARE FLOCKING TO GUYANA FOR JOBS …to the exclusion of local businesses
There is a large influx of Trinidad companies coming to set up operations in Guyana. At last count, there were some 950 Trinidadian companies operating in Guyana. Since then this number has increased.
Today Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon described the situation as being beyond carpetbagging.
“We have barges and equipment and personnel from Trinidad primarily here in Guyana and others are on their way,” Mr Harmon said at a press conference on Monday.
He said that this will have an impact on Guyanese businesses and the people of this country. Mr. Harmon said that the resources of Guyana are primarily for the people of Guyana.
The simple larceny charge against Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, were discontinued by Magistrate Fabayo Azore after instruction from Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack. Nandlall had been accused of stealing Commonwealth
“Investors whom we welcome must recognize this reality in their political analysis of the decisions which they make about doing business in Guyana.”
He saw the invasion as the PPP making arrangements with its friends and cronies in Trinidad at the exclusion of Guyanese.
He accused the PPP of violating the constitution on a daily basis. He used the actions against public servants and certain contract employees as an example.
“The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs continues to convey instructions of the Cabinet. This is unconstitutional. The constitution stipulates that the decisions are conveyed by Cabinet Secretary who is a public Law Reports by the previous APNU+AFC administration.
The charges stated that between May 18, 2015 and May 29, 2015 while being a bailee, in his capacity as Attorney General under the PPP/C administration, he fraudulently converted 14 Commonwealth Law Reports valued at officer. He said that Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Gail Teixeira, is not a public officer.
“We recently learnt that Ms. Teixeira continued to sign these unlawful documents by jus signing as Gail Teixeira, MP. This, of course, does not cure the unconstitutionality of the action.
“In similar vein tis unlawful behavior is trickling down to the Regional Democratic Councils.”
In Region Nine, the Regional Chairman issued a letter terminating the services of the Deputy Regional Officer.
“The REO has no such authority and his letter is a piece of paper which ought not to affect the employment of the Deputy Regional Executive Officer.
“We have been further advised of a husband and wife combination working in the same department within the Guyana Forestry Commission.
“(The couple) is exhibiting power drunkenness and harassing the staff on the basis of political preference.”
This matter is to be addressed in the
Charges against Nandlall dropped
appropriate forum, he said
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$2,313,853, property of the Ministry of Legal Affairs, to his own use and benefit.
Nandlall pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released on self-bail.
Nandlall has repeatedly stated that the books were his property
Graham’s Hall Primary made into shelter for Success squatters
The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) prepared the Graham’s Hall Primary School to be used as a shelter for displaced squatters of Success, East Coast Demerara.
The squatters had been occupying land owned by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) which was intended to be used to restart sugar operations.
After the initial refusal of the squatters to vacate the land, police were called to the scene several times and the lands were flooded from last week Wednesday.
Some of the squatters left the lands after it was flooded but many remained as they had no other place to go. In response to this situation, Prime Minister Brigadier and, while he served as Attorney General, the law books were purchased for him by the State with approval from former President Ramotar.
The Ministry of Legal Affairs, under the leadership of Basil Williams, had contended that (ret’d) Mark Phillips, met with the squatters on Saturday and offered to provide shelter for them. Sleeping facilities at the Primary School to house the displaced squatters were set up on Sunday.
However, many of the squatters have rejected the offer to be housed in the Graham’s Hall Primary School.
There has been criticism of the government’s handling of the situation. The Opposition has called the government’s actions callous and said that there should be negotiation with the squatters to provide them with suitable accommodation and housing.
Last week, Nigel Hinds, a board member of the government’s holding company NICIL, resigned over the treatment of the there was no evidence of an agreement between Nandlall and Ramotar.
Additionally, such an agreement would have been a squatters.
The President has also said the squatters at Success need to go about obtaining land the right way.
A statement from the CDC said the humanitarian crisis of displaced residents requires immediate action to stem migratory and health issues, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Director General of the CDC, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig, said those affected by the flooding at Success can immediately contact the National Emergency Management System (NEMS) on 226-1114, 623-1700 and 600-7500 and make their way to the Graham’s Hall Primary School, Cummings Lodge ECD,
where they will be housed. violation of the Financial Management and Accountability Act.
Magistrate Azore had ruled that sufficient evidence was provided by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) for Nandlall to answer to the charge. Nandlall then approached the High Court and Court of Appeal to challenge the Magistrate’s decision but both Courts ruled to not intervene in the ongoing matter. Nandlall then moved to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to appeal the ruling from
Appeal Court
Tucville, Georgetown,
Guyana, Tel: 592-623-9971
Dengue more deadly than COVID-19 in St Lucia: 711 confirmed cases, 4 deaths CDC monitoring CASTRIES, St Lucia – The Ministry of health and wellness announced the attempted mea culpa, perhaps global percent of the population resides and the greater concentration of hotels sinking oil vesselSaturday, October 17, “the and tourismtotal number of confirmed related dengue-related deaths activities) in Saint Lucia is three, a fourth death is currently being investigated.” continues The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is assisting the island “as per protocol”, whatever that means. Protocol is the most bastardized word on the island, and largely insignificant to the wider population. On Friday, October 16, 2020, the ministry of health also confirmed COVID-19 cases to date is 33; and should the reports of the government of Saint Lucia stand scrutiny, zero reported deaths. And according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 travel recommendations by destination – Saint Lucia – “COVID-19 risk is very low”. However, a CDC report said: “Dengue is an ongoing risk in many parts of Central and South philanthropy will come forward. However, for Saint Lucia to restore its respect #Chastanetmustgo accompanies the selfacclaimed prime minister who flaunts “I am a product of Canada”. The CDC and the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) have collaborated to provide the first-ever comprehensive volume of resources to guide mosquito control in areas affected by natural disasters, such as hurricanes and flooding in this special edition of the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association (JAMCA). The special issue can be accessed here: https:// mosquito-jamca.org/toc/ moco/36/2sexternal icon to report the highest numbers of cases, although cases have been reported throughout the island. The public is reminded that dengue fever can be controlled by reducing or eliminating the mosquito population. Measures to do so include using insect repellent, which may be applied directly to the skin, clothing, or mosquito nets; and wearing longsleeved shirts and long pants especially during the hours of highest mosquito activity.” So, what is next, if you are not interested in getting dengue in Saint Lucia while the ministry of health is academically weak, and operational efficiency late in every respect? A commenter on social media suggested the “wearing of long pants The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) is currently monitoring the Venezuelan oil tanker, Nabarima, which is leaning to one side off a remote stretch of Venezuela’s coast in the Gulf of Paria. The Floating Production Storage and Offloading Vessel (FPSO) is carrying 1.3 million barrels of crude oil and has been moored off the Venezuelan coast since January 2019 after the US Government sanctioned its operator. The Nabarima was operated by Petrosucre joint venture between Venezuelan state oil company, Petroleos de Venezuela, and Italy’s Eni. Eni is seeking approval from the U.S. before offloading the crude oil in order to prevent any sanctions risk. The CDC noted in a statement that while an oil spill would impact the ecological systems of Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago almost immediately it can also affect other countries within the hemisphere. The CDC is working with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Authority (CDEMA) to closely monitor the situation and will keep the public updated. “Should the need arise, the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan (NOSCP) will be activated and the committee will be tasked with conducting analysis, assessments and necessary response measures to mitigate any adverse effect on Guyana,” the disaster response agency said. Patricia Ghany, President of the American Chamber of Commerce of TT (Amcham), has said the Trinidadian government needs to use every available option to deal with the Nabarima oil vessel “Government should use every available avenue, including international pressure if necessary, to ensure that the Venezuelan Government and the Italian company ENI offload the oil and stabilise the Nabarima to protect our environment.” The CDC is asking all fishing and sea-going vessels to be on the lookout for any sighting of oil spills and to report immediately to MARAD Georgetown Lighthouse on telephone number 2269871. America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Travelers to areas of risk should protect At the commencement of the COVID-19 pandemic the government and long sleeve shirts since dengue is proven (a statistical fact) more of a Origin of DeSinco themselves by preventing mosquito bites. In addition, the of Saint Lucia was advised to carry out an islandwide environmental threat than COVID-19.” And as previously stated, the prime minister Trading fire was countries listed below are reporting higher-thanusual numbers of dengue exercise to include fogging, cleaning and disinfecting public spaces is only concerned about winning the next general elections, has electrical cases, and travelers and private facilities, de- accumulated by decree, visiting these countries bushing, increase garbage and is eager to use the may be at increased risk,” collection and clearing of draconian COVID-19 law Saint Lucia included. neglected objects. with the aid of a so-called
“A vaccine to prevent This would have attorney-general, the dengue (Dengvaxia®) served multiple purposes trappings of governance, is licensed and available including health and Speaker of the House in some countries wellness, hurricane of Assembly, president for people ages 9-45 years old. The World Health Organization recommends that the vaccine only be given to persons with confirmed prior dengue virus infection,” however with the prime minister reporting “the country is broke, we have no more money,” albeit preparation, COVID-19 and now dengue. Consistently, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet lives up to expectations “I don’t listen … I let the jackasses bray.” Hitherto, the Ministry of health and wellness has now advised the public that “the northern part of the island (where 65 of the Senate and eleven members of parliament, represents a clear danger to themselves, the rule of law and Saint Lucia. Unceasingly, the hue and cry – “please follow protocol” – “social distance from mosquitoes is scientific, dengue is killing people in Saint Lucia.” The Guyana Fire Service has revealed that the origin of the fire which destroyed the DeSinco Trading Limited building on Sheriff Street in August was caused by an electrical fault. Fire Chief, Marlon Gentle, explained that based on the findings at the scene, there were some issues with the wiring of the building. The fire started on Wednesday August 19, last, just after 13:00 hrs. in the upper flat of the Associated Packers Industry building. Firefighters arrived and attempted to extinguish the fire but there was an inadequate supply of water. They did not have access to foam needed to deal with the chemicals ignited by the fire. The fire spread to and destroyed two other buildings before finally being extinguished around 16:30 hrs info@guyanapostonline.com Tucville, Georgetown, Guyana, Tel: 592-623-9971 30 30
35 COVID-19 deaths recorded in October
The Ministry of Health recorded 31 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday October 19. One case was from Region Three, 25 from Region Four and five from Region Six.
Region Four currently has the highest number of recorded cases at 1,763 followed by Regions One and Nine with 603 and 372 respectively.
The total number of recorded cases in Guyana
The figure of a relaxing cat has been discovered in the Nazca desert in Peru.
The Nazca lines, a Unesco World Heritage site, is home to designs on the ground – known as geoglyphs – created some 2,000 years ago. is now 3,765.
The number of recorded COVID-19 deaths increased to 115 with the death of a 64-yearold woman from Region Four. A total of 35 deaths have been recorded in October.
As of October 19, the number of persons tested for the virus was 17,135. Of these, 2,749 persons have recovered leaving the number of active cases
Scientists believe the cat, as with other Nazca animal figures, was created by making depressions in the desert floor, leaving coloured earth exposed.
The cat then went unnoticed until plans were recently drawn up for a in the country at 902.
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, says Guyana will have access to a COVID-19 vaccine once it is made available.
Guyana is one of 92 countries eligible for coverage under COVAX, a body of organisations which includes the World Health Organization, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations and GAVI -The Vaccine Alliance. from the European Union
“They have come down payment for one together and pooled their million doses of vaccines resources and created this and is not among the 12 platform and allow people Caribbean countries set to to access vaccines, and receive through that effort. they intend to procure two There have also been billion doses of vaccines,” discussions with the the Minister said. Government of India,
The cost of the Russia and Argentina on vaccines will be covered supplying vaccines to by COVAX, with a Guyana. substantial sum covered India is working on by GAVI. producing at least one
Guyana will not benefit billion doses of vaccines for early next year; Argentina is committing 250 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccines to countries in South America, once successful testing has been completed.
Minister Anthony also assured the public that no vaccine would be used if it did not pass all clinical
trials
new path leading to an visible and was about to observation platform. disappear, because it’s
The platform would situated on quite a steep have provided a vantage slope that’s prone to the point for visitors to effects of natural erosion.” see many of the other It added that the geoglyphs. geoglyph, which is about
In a statement, Peru’s 37m (120ft) long, has been culture ministry said: cleaned and conserved “The figure was scarcely over the past week.
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Johny Isla, Peru’s chief Paracas era, which was archaeologist for the from 500 BC to 200 AD. Nazca lines, told Efe news “We know that agency that the cat pre- from comparing dates the Nazca culture – iconographies,” he said. which created most of the “Paracas textiles, for figures from 200 to 700 example, show birds, cats AD. and people that are easily
The cat, he said, was comparable to these actually from the late geoglyphs.” Tucville, Georgetown, Guyana, Tel: 592-623-9971
PRESIDENT SAYS SQUATTERS SHOULD OBTAIN LAND THE RIGHT WAY
Speaking at the opening used as collateral. If you of squatters at Success to own your own homes which began on Friday of a two-day event invest it in a structured who are being forced off too. saw thousands of organised by the Ministry scheme, there is value and of state lands, President “That is why we sent persons gathered at the of Housing and Water for you can capitalise that for Ali said the government the housing teams so National Stadium to file new house lot applicants, more than $5 million,” the wants them to own their many times to see you applications for house lots President Irfaan Ali called President said. own lands but they must but there is the right and inquire about previous on squatters to do the right The President said that go about getting those way of doing things and applications. thing to obtain land. He the government will be lands the right way. the wrong way and in The Housing Ministry also added that squatter focused on developing “Let me say to my Guyana, we have to get has said the event is settlements were not sustainable housing brothers and sisters in accustomed to doing primarily for first-time sustainable. communities across the Success whom we have things the right way. house lot applicants and
“If you invest $5 country especially in reached out to on many Otherwise we will be persons who have to million in a squatter outlying and hinterland occasions, it is not that we developing communities uplift their land titles after settlement, there is no regions. want you to be dislodged that are not sustainable.” their names were recently value since it cannot be Speaking on the issue in the area. We want you The two-day event published. President Irfaan Ali Flooding the Success squatters reflects a lack of humanity—says MP
Demerara villages has shocked many. The disaffection has reached the stage where a member of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) opted to resign. Attorney at Law, Amanza Walton-Desir Member of Parliament, Attorney at Law,
The attack against Amanza Waltonthe squatters aback of Desir, told the media that some Lower East Coast the attack against the
squatters has transcended politics.
“The issue of the squatters and the situation is not a political issue. It is a human right and an issue of human dignity. Were we not so politically divided a country we could all agree it is an issue of human rights and dignity.”
The demographics of the squatters show that the affected people are not confined to one ethnic group.
“The actions of the government is callous. I look with much distress seeing mothers packing up their bundles and trekking out with thir children and having no idea of where they are going to go.” Ms Walton-Desir said that it is saddening to see some of the commentaries on social media. It would appear that people have lost their humanity.
“You can see in a pandemic that is gripping the world, you can see other countries making interventions. It is disheartening to see comments like ‘Why didn’t Granger give them land?’ or ‘Squatting is illegal’.
“To target a community by flooding where they live; and people with babies, where they live with children; this is no political issue.
“It is an issue of human rights; it is an issue of human dignity.”
To date no one has asked where these people can go or will go. Ms Walton-Desir said that for many, the squatting house they occupied was the only home they knew.
“A number of them women had contracted the virus.
Studies initially revealed that coronaviruspositive mothers do not transfer the virus to their babies, but other research has linked coronaviruspositive mothers to higher rates of premature births and maternal morbidity.
The Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO) had stated that studies showed pregnant women can be severely affected by COVID-19 but Dr. Pedro said none of the positive mothers had have been put out because they cannot afford the rent because they don’t have their jobs due to the pandemic. I want to call on Guyanese, particularly those who are right-thinking to roundly condemn this action.”
The government claimed that it needs the land to resuscitate the sugar industry. However, a few months, while in Opposition, it was the government that sent people to squat on the land. This provoked a
Digicel makes overseas price reductions
…. Digicel has further will result in the cost reduced overseas calling of overseas calls being rates bringing the number significantly reduced by of countries customers can as much as 600% from the call for $30, to 100. Digicel pre liberalisation rates. subscribers can now call This will be a great countries including China, benefit for persons Canada, United Kingdom, keeping in touch with United States, Panama, friends and family and St Maarten, Brazil, business persons needing Venezuela, St Lucia, to conduct trade globally. Dominican Republic and Dean, commented; many MORE for the same “We have also taken the low rate as calling a local decision to significantly number. boost the number of
“This is the first of persons working on our many service and product network upgrades. We changes customers are making every effort can expect, thanks to to ensure customers see liberalisation. “, noted the promised benefits CEO, Gregory Dean. of liberalisation in the
The rate reductions shortest possible time.”
Guyana’s COVID toll is 110 and counting
The Ministry of Health As of Friday, 16,561 recorded 52 new cases persons have been tested of COVID-19 on Friday for the virus. 2,590 October 16. Nine cases persons have recovered were recorded in Region leaving the number of One, one in Region Two, active cases in the country four in Region Three, at 972. 24 in Region Four, one The Head of the in Region Five, nine in Georgetown Public Region Seven, and four in Hospital Corporation’s Region Ten. Obstetrics and
The total number of Gynecology Department, recorded cases in Guyana Dr. Lucio Pedro, disclosed is now 3,672. that there are currently 37
The death toll is postpartum mothers who currently at 110. There are infected with the virus. have been 30 COVID-19 Pedro said the hospital deaths recorded so far in was unsuccessful in October. determining how these
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sympathy vote. shown any severe forms of the virus.
Dr. Pedro added that all swabs which were lifted from newborns for COVID-19 testing have returned negative.
Once a mother tests positive for the virus they are isolated from their newborns to help reduce infection. The hospital has also constructed a makeshift labour room for positive COVID-19 mothers to keep them separated from those who are not infected.
OAS: In danger of undermining the ‘Right to Protect’
(The writer is by Ministers of member crimes against humanity, it require UN Security been such instances Antigua and Barbuda’s states or the Permanent and ethnic cleansing”. Council authorization. in the past, in OAS Ambassador to the Council of the OAS. The question arises, Therefore, why would countries, governments U.S. and the OAS. He Further, R2P is, therefore, about the the OAS – a group of of other OAS member is also a senior fellow rightfully, a matter identity of the countries only 33 governments – states have ignored at the Institute of on the agenda of the “in the Americas” where seek to usurp the UN of them for narrow, Commonwealth Studies at United Nations General Mr. Almagro suggests 193 states, and a 15-state political reasons. Such neighbouring the University of London Assembly and under the that such crimes are being Security Council? politically selective and states, should act to and at Massey College in authority of the Security committed and against Dr. Adrian Gallagher, convenient responses prevent and punish them the University of Toronto. Council. which action is required Co-Director of the must stop if the OAS is within the UN agreed The view expressed are Consequently, it is “more efficiently, and in a European Centre for the to have any credibility in framework. entirely his own) intriguing that, in his timely manner”. Responsibility to Protect, advancing the principle of The OAS should be
A noteworthy event statement, Mr. Almagro If such countries exist makes the following R2P. discussing this openly occurred on the afternoon said unequivocally that: in the Americas, why have salient point: “R2P does In this regard, another and transparently, paying of Saturday, October “If existing international they not been brought allow states to consider observation by Dr. attention to every country 10, that could have mechanisms are not before the UN Security all coercive and non- Gallagher is worth in the Americas, and not implications for nations responding to the Council? And why is coercive measures under recalling: “It is important just to those where the across the globe. It merits demands and needs of the this matter not being Chapters VI, VII, and VIII that those who champion political or ideological attention. victims of mass atrocities raised for discussion, of the UN Charter when a the R2P do not overstate interests of powerful
The Secretary-General in the Americas, at the with the evidence of government is “manifestly the scale of the crimes states are served, one way of the Organization of very least the OAS should atrocities, by member failing” to protect its being committed. OAS or the other. American States (OAS), try to design and build a governments of the OAS population from the four Secretary General Luis If the OAS continues Luis Almagro, issued regional mechanism that in appropriate bodies of crimes. Though this does Almagro has invoked the the selective path that a statement, indicating can prevent and respond the Organization? include the use of force, Rwandan genocide as it has followed, it will that he “designated more efficiently, and The way this matter any action taken has to a pretext to justify R2P reverse every step that international human rights in a timely manner, to has crawled into the OAS be authorized by the UN action in Venezuela, but it now makes to be lawyer Jared Genser as crimes of this nature in the – not in the full light of Security Council”. clearly any such analogy regarded universally as Special Adviser on the Western Hemisphere”. transparent discussion and In his statement, Mr. is deeply flawed, as there a credible and respected Responsibility to Protect Whether intended decision but in a weekend Almagro makes another is no pending threat of organization. (R2P)”. or not, this sounds like media statement from the point that merits attention. mass genocide”. That is not an OAS that
This appointment a dismissal of the UN Secretary-General – is He says: “The costs of not To be clear, the will serve the peoples of happened when the Security Council and an why suspicion surrounds having an R2P regional principle of R2P should the Americas well. OAS is again facing dire arrogation by the OAS the OAS. mechanism at the OAS be embraced by every As a regional financial circumstances to act in its place “in the It is a suspicion with so far have been the country in the world. organization, the OAS and staff contracts are not Americas”. which all its member continued loss of human Every government should should not seek to supplant being renewed. It is important to states are tainted as lives and the persistence uphold the human, civil global efforts at the UN;
Still, even in such note that R2P was complicit. Silence is taken of impunity for mass and political rights of its it would better serve the difficult circumstances, an unanimously endorsed by as consent. atrocities crimes”. people, not oppress them region and the world appointment of someone the member-states of the A further consideration He continues: “Yet, and certainly not murder by providing objective greatly needed to carry out United Nations at a World is that the R2P does not over time, there have been them or eliminate any and non-discriminatory the Organization’s work Summit in 2005. The replace the UN Charter; mass atrocities committed ethnic group within them. leadership in upholding would be understandable. agreement is designed to R2P is a UN-led response in far too many countries Where governments and advancing the
The difficulty with this protect people the world to the problem of mass- by repressive and execute heinous atrocities, principle of R2P within appointment is that it is not over from four crimes: atrocity crimes, and undemocratic regimes”. the wider international the UN agreement of a priority identified either “genocide, war crimes, actions in furtherance of Sadly, where there have community, particularly 2005.
Taxi driver charged for drug trafficking
A 40-year-old taxi driver was arraigned on Friday for the charge of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.
Eon Weeks of Lot 1 Durban and Smyth Streets, Georgetown, appeared at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Fabio Azore, where he pleaded not guilty and was placed on bail of $75,000.
The case was adjourned to November 9 and transferred to the Mahaicony Magistrate’s Court.
According to reports from police, around 13:30 hrs. on Tuesday October 13, a motor car driven by the taxi driver and also occupied by a 20-year-old woman, was stopped by ranks at a road block on the Mahaicony Public Road, East Coast Demerara.
The driver and the woman were searched but nothing was found on them. A search of the trunk of the vehicle revealed two large bags containing seven compressed parcels of transparent plastic with leaves, seeds and stems, suspected to be cannabis.
The police reported that after the narcotics were discovered Weeks allegedly admitted ownership The narcotics weighed around 15.4 kilograms. By Sir Ronald Sanders
OPPOSITION LEADER VISITS SQUATTERS AT SUCCESS Nigel Hinds resigns from NICIL protests flooding of squatters
Leader of the Opposition, Joseph Harmon
Leader of the a bridge leading to the Opposition, Joseph lands was destroyed and Harmon, along with the police fired pellets and several Members of tear gas at the squatters. Parliament, visited the One woman also claimed lands at Success, East that an officer threatened Coast Demerara to an 11-year-old child with observe the area and speak a firearm. with the squatters. Following the
The lands are intended unsuccessful attempts to to be used by GuySuCo in remove the squatters, the restarting sugar operations lands were flooded on but the presence of the Wednesday. Most of the squatters has impeded land and structures built by progress from being the squatters were under made. Police were called water and still being used; to remove the squatters many of them remain on and there were several the land since they have altercations between them no other place to go. and the squatters. Initially Harmon noted that squatting on land should not be necessary but the response of the government was similar to that of “slavemasters” and should not have been taken against them. The squatters also pointed out that no actions were being taken against other squatters on unused plantation lands.
Harmon continued to say that whether the land was owned by GuySuCo or NICIL, it was the State’s responsibility to negotiate with them and find a suitable resolution to the issue. The squatters said that they want the situation to be resolved quickly and receive plots of land where they can construct houses. One squatter also pointed out that they were still waiting for details on their reallocation from the Minister of Housing.
Harmon promised to provide assistance to the squatters with commodities such as water and electricity and continued to call for the government to find a suitable resolution to this issue.
The Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) seized a number of borrowed computers and phones from Yuri Garcia Dominguez on Wednesday. SOCU was acting on information that Dominguez had millions be proceeds of money
Accountant Nigel Hinds
Accountant Nigel Hinds resigned with immediate effect from the Board of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) over the treatment of squatters on the lands at Success, East Coast of Demerara.
The state holding company, NICIL, has begun flooding squatters out of the area but many still refuse to leave the area. The squatters have also had pellets and tear gas fired at them by police on several occasions.
In Hinds’s resignation letter to NICIL Chair, Paul Cheong, Hinds said that he wanted to disassociate himself from the “inhumane actions and onslaught on Guyanese residents that occupy the Success area on the East Coast of Demerara, an area of land that is owned by NICIL and not by the Guyana Sugar Corporation.”
He said that the actions taken against the squatters were “crude, cruel and callous”. He said that he did not want to continue to give the impression that he
Security guard attacked at Success Couple accused of Ponzi scheme halts repayments after computers seized by SOCU The pump which security guard was guarding that pumpt water on the land of dollars– suspected to supported these acts.
A security guard was reported that the to the suspects. laundering– hidden in his stationed at the Success suspects, armed with GuySuCo has been home. Backlands, East Coast cutlasses, approached attempting to begin Dominguez, and his Demerara (ECD), was attacked on Thursday afternoon by two armed men on a motorcycle. The guard was watching a pump being used by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) on the land at Success. Around 16:00 hrs. it the security guard and began to attack him. The suspects then relieved the guard of his firearm and spare ammunition. One of the suspects then fired at the pump before they fled the scene. The police were then contacted and gave chase operations at the lands which are being occupied by squatters at Success. GuySuCo began flooding the land on Wednesday to force the squatters to move but many still refuse to leave. wife, Ateeka Ishmael, are accused of running a major Ponzi scheme through their company, Accelerated Capital Firm Inc. On Thursday Dominguez and his lawyer, Dexter Todd, explained that the seizure has prevented the company from repaying investors. The company began the process of repayment on Monday, October 12 but had only repaid 27 of 17,000 investors in those first two days. In the initial stage of the investigation against Dominguez and his wife, their computers and continue on pg3 Dominguez, and his wife, Ateeka Ishmael info@guyanapostonline.com Tucville, Georgetown, Guyana, Tel: 592-623-9971 2 34 Tucville, Georgetown, Guyana, Tel: 592-623-9971
The state is usurping the functions of an elections court
…by charging people with electoral fraud
The decision by the state to conduct investigations into election irregularities is being challenged. One legal opinion is that only a court could investigate electoral irregularities. Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde contends that this is a sound legal opinion.
“The institution of these charges is one thing. The evidence in support of
The Ministry of Health recorded 31 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, October 15. Four cases were recorded in Region Two, 18 in Region Four, two in Region Seven, two in Region Eight and five in Region Nine.
The total number of recorded cases in Guyana is now at 3,620. There have been 691 recorded cases over the last two weeks.
The death toll is currently at 108. The sum of 28 COVID-19 related deaths have been recorded so far in October.
As of October 15 there have been 16,451 persons tested for the virus. 2,522 persons have recovered leaving the number of active cases in the country at 990. those charges is another issue. We would be paying close attention to these charges that are being laid.
“We are very vigilant on paying attention to when these charges are likely to begin in terms of a hearing.”
The evidence can only come from the elections and Senior Counsel Forde said that this has implications.
“Once the evidence
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, has said that the Government will ensure that frontline workers are the first to benefit from the COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available.
The Minister said that through initial discussions with the Government of India, it was made known that India will be working to produce at least one billion doses of vaccines for early next year following a successful phase-three trial.
In September, President Irfaan Ali and Argentina’s President, Alberto Fernandez, had discussed regional collaboration and support in the fight against COVID-19. Argentina is working on producing 250 million starts to come out that they are seeking to go into matters directly connected to the election petition then you are seeking to raise issues which form part of the court’s resolution in relation to an elections petition.
“Those charges would have to be permanently stayed until the court hears and determines an elections petition.”
But the state has forged ahead with charging people for electoral offences. The source of the legal advice has not been stated. However, generally, such advice to charge could only come from the Attorney General.
Mr. Forde said that the charges are very vague.
“While it is a correct principle in law to say that all those issues must be determined by an elections petition and can only be heard by an elections court we must contemplate that there may be the possibility for a charge.
“But those charges must form issues outside of an elections petition.”
Lawyers representing those charged say that all the charges appear to relate to an elections petition. Mr. Forde said that under such conditions the charges will and can go nowhere.
Couple accused of Ponzi scheme.....
continued from pg2 phones were seized by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). Dominguez had borrowed two computers and three phones in order to begin the repayment process.
Dominguez said that the incident was very unfortunate. There were a lot of misunderstandings around the payments, the dates and how much would be repaid. He also said the target for each week was to repay at least 215 investors.
SOCU on Thursday also seized the computers and phones of the couple’s two children, the couple’s birth certificates, marriage certificates, records of investors and other personal documents. Dominguez was also
The Ministry of Health has announced the deaths of two more persons who tested positive for COVID-19. The deceased are a 48-year-old man from Region One and a 71-year-old woman from Region Four.
These deaths bring the death toll for COVID-19 to 110. There have been 30 recorded deaths in the month of October.
The Ministry of Health continues to ask persons further charged by SOCU for running a company without a license and running a pyramid scheme.
Todd said that he was not allowed inside the house while it was being raided for over two hours on Thursday and Dominguez was not allowed out to speak with him.
The case against the couple will come up for case management conference on Wednesday, November 4, 2020 before Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George.
The couple has been released on bail with instructions to lodge their passports and regularly
Guyana places hope Two more on COVID vaccine COVID-19 deaths
doses of COVID-19 eventual COVID-19 vaccines, some of which vaccines reach those in will be made available greatest need. GAVI is a to countries in South America. There have also been global vaccine alliance which brings together discussions with the public and private Russian Ambassador in sectors with the goal of Guyana about the vaccine creating equal access being used in clinical trials to new and underused in Russia. vaccines. GAVI’s support
“So, we will see what is provided to countries comes out of the clinical based on their national trials and whether we can be able to utilise such income. vaccines here,” Minister Guyana began to move Anthony said. beyond the threshold for
The minister also GAVI eligibility when assured that the cost of the its gross national income vaccines will be covered surpassed US$1,500 per through COVAX and GAVI. capita in 2011.
The COVAX Facility Support for is a global initiative immunisation that brings together programmes did continue governments and as the country remained manufacturers to ensure eligible for GAVI support. 3 35
report to the CID to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures (NO. 9), which are in effect until October 31st, 2020. This order emphasises the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home; the importance of maintaining the six feet physical distance from others; and the need for good hand-hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
THE PPP IS MISGUIDED
are important persons will of the people, that in who must, and will give every area and in every evidence. electoral district there “The numerous was serious fraud (and the harassments and elections were) lacking in institution of frivolous credibility.” charges against them Lowenfield is just one cannot work, will not of the electoral officers work and will never being prosecuted. Senior work.” Counsel Forde said Senior Counsel Forde that the government is said that his party knows misguided into thinking why the government that the charges would has been seeking to affect the petition. implement the charges. Attorney at Law Amanza There have been Walton-Desir, who is also a statements by Chairperson Member of Parliament and The Elections Petition is being displayed by APNU+ AFC executives of the Guyana Elections whom he PPP targeted for Charging some GECOM staff would not impact the elections petition The date is set for the elections petition filed by the APNU+AFC. Just this week, Chief Justice Roxane GeorgeWiltshire informed the people who would be involved in the petition hearing. Today Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde was asked about the likelihood of those facing charges to testify before the elections court. “All persons who “However the National Assembly Validity Election Laws contemplate that the principal respondent to an election petition is the Chief Elections Officer.” Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield has been slapped with six charges All told he has had to post bail in the sum of almost $1 million. Attorney Forde said that the Chief Elections Officer cannot be prevented by any institution of any criminal proceedings from being a respondent and a compellable witness in Commission, Justice Claudette Singh, that the allegations and issues raised about the elections were serious. “We also have the very reports. Each and every report, the ten Observation Reports and the summaries submitted by the Chief Elections termination, reiterated that the charges represent acts of desperation. “The desperation that we see characterizing the PPP action is a good indicator that the PPP is uncomfortable with the elections petition. “They know fully that opposition that October are connected with the by the state. He has also any elections petition. Officer and his final report the prospects of success (of 22 has been fixed for Case electoral process can be been ordered to answer to “He represents the entire on July 31, 2020. the petitions) are significant. Management. called as witnesses. The private criminal charges elections commission— “In those reports I expect in the coming days
But even as the start of Chief Elections Officer filed by a supporter of the six commissioners (Lowenfield) said that we will continue to see their the hearing of the petition would have been charged, the People’s Progressive and the Chairman of the the elections lacked attempt to humiliate, to is approaching, the state is repeatedly, for a number Party and a member of commission. His deputy credibility, do not dehumanize members of instituting charges against of alleged offences. The New Guyana. and all his subordinates demonstrate the true staff of GECOM. GTT gives businesses six times more broadband speed
GTT announced today that businesses will now be receiving broadband speeds of 300 Mbps through GTT’s Biz Fibre service.
GTT VP of Sales, Eshwar Thakurdin, said “This pandemic has really changed our behavior towards and our reliance on online channels… with the increased use of technology, we understood that businesses needed greater capacity to connect with their customers, colleagues and other stakeholders – as such, we are pleased to provide increased
broadband speeds at no intended to liberalise additional cost.” the telecommunications
This is the second sector in Guyana. increase to broadband speeds for businesses that GTT has done in the last two months. Speeds had been initially increased from 50 Mbps to 150 Mbps last month. The new broadband speeds will provide 300 Mbps download and 50 Mbps upload.
This increase also comes just over a week after the full commencement of the Telecommunications Act 2016 and the Public Utilities Commission Act 2016 which are
Tucville, Georgetown, Guyana, Tel: 592-623-9971 2 36 36
Guyana Post, Sunday November 10, 2020 Guyana’s COVID-19 death toll keeps climbing
The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU ) Mr. Patrick Yarde
The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) is restating its position that all health workers should be classified as ‘Frontline Workers’ and be paid a risk allowance.
An investigative team from the GPSU and the Government met with healthcare workers in Regions 3, 5, 6 and 10 and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)The workers share the same view and
Netherlands-based KOTUG International has been awarded a long-term contract by Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) to provide offshore terminal towage support for operations in Guyana.
KOTUG International is a Towage Services provider, with a fleet of over 50 tugs active in Europe, Russia, Asia, Australia, Africa, Canada and the Caribbean
This contract is KOTUG’s first operation in South America. made the recommendation to the team.
These visits are part of a two-week period for negotiations on the payment of risk allowance and several other issues that were raised following the threat of a strike from nurses at the GPHC.
The GPSU and the healthcare workers believe that all categories of health workers must be classified as frontline workers and be paid a risk allowance,
Ard-Jan Kooren, CEO of KOTUG International, said, “Being part of the growing offshore oil and gas activities in the cooperative Republic of Guyana and working together with one of world’s largest oil majors, ExxonMobil, for us is an important milestone and in line with our longterm strategy to grow our business in the FPSO support business.”
KOTUG will operate through local entity, KOTUG Guyana Inc. It will employ its newly acquired vessel, “SD since the nature of their work requires that all categories of healthcare workers come into contact with COVID-19 patients, knowingly, or unknowingly, while performing their duties.
The GPSU stated that it was pleased with the investigating team’s interaction so far with the healthcare workers. It views the exercise as “very enlightening and encouraging.” Power”, a high-spec 130 tonnes bollard pull, DP-2 azimuth anchor-handling tug.
The vessel will provide support to the Floating Production and Storage Offloading units (FPSO’s) at the Liza Field, offshore Guyana, by providing towage assistance to export tankers, infield support duties and cargo duties.
The Liza Phase 1 Project, began producing via the Liza Destiny FPSO in late 2019. Liza Phase 2, is intended to begin producing oil by
The GPSU is also expecting an “urgent and positive” response from the Government on the payment of the risk allowances to health care workers. The GPSU is also working to resolve the other work-related in a favourable and timely manner.
A report and recommendations for the Government are expected to be presented by next week. early 2022.
It will produce up to 220,000 barrels of oil per day at peak rates using the Liza Unity FPSO, which is currently under construction in Singapore.
The Ministry of Health recorded 24 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday, October 14. One case was from Region One, one from Region Three, seven from Region Four, one from Region Six, two from Region Seven, 10 from Region Eight and two from Region Ten.
The total number of recorded cases in Guyana is now at 3,589.
The death toll has increased to 108 with the death of a 46-yearold woman from Region Four. There have been 28 recorded COVID-19 deaths so far in the month of October.
As of October 14 there have been 16,308 persons tested for the virus. The number of active cases in the country at 995.
Testing for COVID-19 at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory can now be completed within 45 minutes. The testing process would previously take eight to nine hours.
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, the shorter processing time is a result of the use of the $7.2 million automated extractor donated by the People’s Republic of China.
“I can tell you that we are now able to extract 96 samples within 45 minutes. Our processing time has gone up tremendously so we will be able to do more samples in the timeframe that we used to,” he said.
The Minister said another automated extractor, purchased by the Ministry, is being
KOTUG awarded contract in Guyana from Esso
shipped to Guyana.
US AGENCIES OFFER US$200B IN FINANCING FOR PROJECTS
CEO of the DFC, Adam Boehler
The United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has said they are ready to invest in Guyana with around US$200 billion in funding available.
CEO of the DFC, Adam Boehler, led a team of investors comprising representatives from the US Treasury, the US State Department, the National Security Council, Homeland Security and the Export Import (EXIM) Bank.
Boehler said they are eyeing opportunities in various sectors, including energy, agriculture and infrastructure.
Nicholas Boyer, Chairman of the Private Sector Commission, said this “signals a new era in the US-Guyana relationship and I think that is something we should take advantage of.”
Boehler said the DFC is looking to cooperate on several projects, including the deep water harbour, small and medium sized businesses, agriculture and reduction of electricity cost; He also focused on the Corentyne River Bridge which will link Guyana and Suriname.
Dharamlall stated that distinction, and charged that he executes his functions in a fair and transparent manner.
“I welcome him aboard and look forward to his service to the people of
“It’s a rare time of alignment between Suriname and Guyana to have great new administrations that are investing in their private market,” Boehler said.
Boehler continued to point out that the US will fund multi-billion-dollar projects as well as small entrepreneurs. He added that the private sector will be a strong partner for the various projects and he hopes that they will be announced soon.
Responding to questions on whether the projects will be given primarily to US businesses based in Guyana, Boehler said he supports a transparent and competitive selection process. He said in the bidding process for large projects, major competitors will be Chinese companies, some of which are already involved in infrastructure projects in Guyana.
Boehler added that “high quality” is one thing that can differentiate American companies from others.
Teams from the agencies, the local private sector and the Government are expected to meet to finalise the projects and move
Dharamlall appoints Region 10 REO years. COVID death he is confident Mr. John will serve the people of Region Ten with toll 107 forward. Minister of Local Government Region Ten in furthering and Regional Development, Dwight John the inclusive agenda of the Nigel Dharamlall government. The Ministry of Health at 1,643 followed by deaths so far in the month
Minister of Local of Region Ten. “I have no doubt Mr. recorded 44 new cases of Regions One and Nine at of October. Government and Regional John reportedly has a John will serve well in COVID-19 on Tuesday 587 and 367 respectively. As of October 13, Development, Nigel wealth of experience in this capacity and I remain October 13. 29 cases were The total number of 16,215 persons have been Dharamlall, effective Local Governance and committed to working from Region One, two recorded cases in Guyana tested for the virus. 2,435 from October 14, 2020 Regional Development. with the Regional from Region Three and 13 is now at 3,565. persons have recovered has appointed Dwight He has served as a Administration to realise from Region Four. Region The death toll remains leaving the number of John as the Regional Regional Development the full potential of that Four has the highest at 107. There have been active cases in the country Executive Officer (REO) Officer for a number of region.” number of recorded cases 27 recorded COVID-19 at 1,023. info@guyanapostonline.com 38 Tucville, Georgetown, Guyana, Tel: 592-623-9971
Guyana Post, Sunday November 10, 2020 POLICE SLAP SIX CHARGES ON GECOM’S CHIEF ELECTIONS OFFICER Boston said that the police filed six charges against Airports will be reopened today, October 12, to commercial flights. Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, said that passengers will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR Lowenfield. Appearing in court for the state was a lawyer from the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. He sought to oppose bail. Attorney Boston said that Lowenfield was required to post $50,000 on each of the six charges. The complainants are the police. These charges seem to supplement the private criminal charges which are likely to be thrown out. Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon, during a press conference last week, stated that the police acting under the direction of the People’s Progressive Party, were out to harass and humiliate …Lowenfield released on $300,000 bail (middle) the Black staff members …Lowenfield released 2, 2020 elections; and for Movement. He was that tables attached to his Chief Elections Officer, Commission. on $300,000 bail misbehavior in public released on $150,000 bail June 23rd elections report without lawful excuse or On arrival at the
The police slapped six office. on each charge. accurately reflected the justification, he willfully Georgetown Magistrates’ charges against Chief He is out on bail. One charge alleged that true results of the elections misconducted himself by Court, the police placed Elections Officer, Keith Mr. Lowenfield is Lowenfield conspired in order to materially alter ascertaining results of the Lowenfield in the holding Lowenfield today. The also before the courts on with a person or persons the results, with intent to elections “knowing the cell like a common charges, according to private criminal charges unknown to commit the defraud as he knew the said results to be false. criminal. the general statement are filed by Desmond Morian common law offence of tabulation to be false. All told there were three He will be returning to for tendering a forged of the People’s Progressive fraud by representing to Morian alleged that charges. court on March 23, next, document or documents Party, and Daniel Kanhai the Guyana Elections Lowenfield while Today, his attorney, to answer the private stemming from the March of the nascent New Commission (GECOM) performing his duty as Senior Council Neil criminal charges. Airports reopened
The Eugene F. Correia and Cheddi Jagan International
of the Guyana Elections test on arrival. which was have to take a second test taken at least seven days at the airport. prior to travel. However, “If the PCR test is done if the results were not within 72hrs of travel, received within three days the passenger will not be of their travel, they would required to do another
39 39 39
PCR test on arrival. If the The airports were PCR test is done within previously only 4-7 days of travel, the conducting cargo, passenger will be required repatriation, medical to do a PCR test on evacuation and special arrival,” the Minister said. authorized flights. With Tucville, Georgetown, Guyana, Tel: 592-623-9971
The Ministry of Health recorded 111 cases of COVID-19 over the weekend. Of these, 47 cases were recorded on Saturday October 10. A
The body of an Essequibo man, who went missing during a family outing to Hamburg on Sunday, was recovered this morning.
Umal Jaggernauth, 25, of Spring Garden, Essequibo Coast, and about 25 of his family members left home about noon to go to Hamburg Beach on Sunday.
Jaggernauth and his uncle, Randy, were left to moor the boat after they arrived. After mooring the boat, Jaggernauth and his uncle began to swim to shore but only Randy reached the shore. The other family members were alerted and later went in search for Jaggernauth but did not find him.
The family members and Police returned to further 64 were recorded on Sunday October 11.
The total number of recorded cases in Guyana is now at 3,469. There have been 575 cases recorded in
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, said swabbing will be done at the airports while the PCR tests which passengers arrive with, will be validated by local authorities to ensure it is authentic. Passengers will be allowed to leave the airport once the negative the development of a Officers of the CJIA, Minister Edghill The CJIA is expecting comprehensive list of Ramesh Ghir, and advised passengers to plan its first commercial flight health and safety measures the Eugene F. Correia their travel ahead of time today while the Eugene at airports and on aircraft, the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) will be International Airport, Col. Ret’d Anthony Mekdeci, said they were confident and be prepared to arrive early at international airports to have enough F. Correia International Airport will receive its able to ensure the safety of that the systems in place time to go through first flight from Caribbean both staff and passengers. are adequate for the restart the newly established Airlines around October
Chief Executive of commercial flights. screening protocols. 19. Body of missing Essequibo man found
Umal Jaggernauth
result is confirmed. the area on Monday morning and recovered
Essequibo River
Guyana’s COVID death toll races to 105
Jaggernauth’s body. the last 11 days.
The death toll has risen to 105 with the deaths of a 61-year-old woman from
Region One, recorded on Friday and a 40-year-
40 40
old woman from Region Four, recorded on Sunday.
There have been 25 COVID-19 related deaths recorded so far this October.
As of Sunday, 15,963 persons have been tested for the virus. 2,318 persons have recovered leaving the number of active cases in the country at 1,046.
JOSEPH HARMON, GECOM CHAIR CLASH OVER DEALINGS WITH THE POLICE
that Crime Chief, Mr. earlier today with the Commission. the Guyana Blanhum had written Press, alleged that as the “After some discussion, Elections to the Chairman of Chairperson of GECOM, I undertook t o Commission GECOM requesting I have been “facilitating seek clarity represent certain documents from the handing over of from the CID as clear instances GECOM. information and the to the purpose of of political He said that these persecution of members the request as these persecution documents are under of staff without showing documents are private a n d the jurisdiction of any willingness to take to GECOM and those the Chief Elections some line of action. members of staff. Officer. “It She said that Trotman “A response from the appears upon that accused her of “facilitating CID advised that what victimization communication, every line of action that in fact was required of the Afro-Guyanese Officers documents were the police (are) taking. were their respective Job staff members of and other GECOM released to the “She has instructed that Descriptions. Considering GECOM. officers responsible for the Opposition Police,” he added. documents be handed that this information is He said that the action missing poll books, ballot Leader Joseph Harmon, “It is no wonder that over without ascertaining public, I instructed the constitutes an attempt to papers and other polling at his weekly press the Chairman of the what the documents are Human dismantle GECOM and documents have been conference, yesterday, Elections Commission going to be used for.” Resources Manager to render it ineffective from even questioned, let alone accused Chairperson of has not raised her voice in Justice Singh did not provide Job Descriptions being able to hold credible detained by the police. the Guyana Elections concern for the welfare of dispute the approach by the ONLY.” elections. “This is not an Commission, Justice these officers who worked Criminal Investigations “As Chairperson of “It is an assault on investigation, it is a Claudette Singh, of being with her.” Department. “I wish to GECOM and a former democracy and can cause campaign of intimidation, “complicit and at best But Justice Singh state that the Criminal Police Legal Advisor, irreparable damage to the bullyism, and a part of the PPP’s plot released a statement Investigation Department I will always ensure fundamental basis of our psychological warfare by to dismantle the current refuting the allegation. (CID) of the Guyana that the best interest of country.” the Police and the PPP. GECOM.” “It has been brought to Police Force had the members of staff of He said that there is a “No other person
He said that my attention that Mr. requested the contracts of GECOM are protected.” racist motive behind these working in the Commissioners of Desmond Trotman, some members of staff Harmon said that the arrests. Commission of any other the Guyana Elections Commissioner of which I reported at a detention and charging “I wish to note that not a ethnicity has been treated Commission reported GECOM, in an interview Statutory Meeting of the of those staff members of single one of the Presiding this way.” Chinese community donates $17M worth of equipment
The Association of Chinese Enterprise in Guyana (ACEG) and the Chinese Community in Guyana donated approximately $17.2
million worth of laboratory diagnostic supplies to help improve COVID-19 testing.
The equipment was received by Minister The donation contained a Nucleic Acid Extraction System and Viral Nucleic Acid Extraction Kits. Minister Anthony said the machine will automate the process of extracting the coronavirus from the sample to help amplify it, so that the tests could be processed faster. “We estimate that once the machine is up and running that the processing time would be reduced to of Health, Dr. Frank about two hours, so that Anthony, from Chinese we would be able to do Ambassador, Cui at least 96 samples within Jianchun, at a simple two to three hours and that ceremony at his Brickdam would be a remarkable Office. achievement.”, said
41
Minister Anthony.
He also noted that the supplies will greatly assist Guyana in the fight against COVID-19 and expressed his gratitude to the Ambassador and the groups for the donation.
The new Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Malcolm Watkins, also conveyed his appreciation for the timely donation.
Ambassador Cui said the Chinese community will continue to work with Guyana in the fight against the disease. “I think that it is really, really important for the Guyanese people to fight against COVID-19. We think that if we work together … we could win the final victory.”
The Ministry has received quantities of personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators, computers, LIFEPAK monitor/ defibrillator machines, biosafety bags, tablets and other medical supplies and equipment in the battle against COVID-19 from the Government of India, PAHO/WHO and other partners in the battle against the disease.
