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JOSEPH HARMON, GECOM CHAIR CLASH OVER DEALINGS WITH THE POLICE Pg2
Chinese community donates $17M worth of equipment Pg2
COVID deaths reach 103
Fire destroys CARICOM Pg3 Auto Parts
Pg3
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JOSEPH HARMON, GECOM
CHAIR CLASH OVER DEALINGS WITH THE POLICE
Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon, at his weekly press conference, yesterday, accused Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission, Justice Claudette Singh, of being “complicit and at best a part of the PPP’s plot to dismantle the current GECOM.” He said that Commissioners of the Guyana Elections Commission reported
that Crime Chief, Mr. Blanhum had written to the Chairman of GECOM requesting certain documents from GECOM. He said that these documents are under the jurisdiction of the Chief Elections Officer. “It appears upon that communication, documents were released to the Police,” he added. “It is no wonder that the Chairman of the Elections Commission has not raised her voice in concern for the welfare of these officers who worked with her.” But Justice Singh released a statement refuting the allegation. “It has been brought to my attention that Mr. Desmond Trotman, Commissioner of GECOM, in an interview
earlier today with the Press, alleged that as the Chairperson of GECOM, I have been “facilitating the handing over of information and the persecution of members of staff without showing any willingness to take some line of action. She said that Trotman accused her of “facilitating every line of action that the police (are) taking. “She has instructed that documents be handed over without ascertaining what the documents are going to be used for.” Justice Singh did not dispute the approach by the Criminal Investigations Department. “I wish to state that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Guyana Police Force had requested the contracts of some members of staff which I reported at a Statutory Meeting of the
Commission. “After some discussion, I undertook t o seek clarity from the CID as to the purpose of the request as these documents are private to GECOM and those members of staff. “A response from the CID advised that what in fact was required were their respective Job Descriptions. Considering that this information is public, I instructed the Human Resources Manager to provide Job Descriptions ONLY.” “As Chairperson of GECOM and a former Police Legal Advisor, I will always ensure that the best interest of the members of staff of GECOM are protected.” Harmon said that the detention and charging of those staff members of
the Guyana Elections Commission represent clear instances of political persecution a n d
of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, from Chinese Ambassador, Cui Jianchun, at a simple ceremony at his Brickdam Office.
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 about two hours, so that we would be able to do at least 96 samples within two to three hours and that would be a remarkable achievement.”, said
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
victimization of the Afro-Guyanese staff members of GECOM. He said that the action constitutes an attempt to dismantle GECOM and render it ineffective from being able to hold credible elections. “It is an assault on democracy and can cause irreparable damage to the fundamental basis of our country.” He said that there is a racist motive behind these arrests. “I wish to note that not a single one of the Presiding
Officers and other GECOM officers responsible for the missing poll books, ballot papers and other polling documents have been even questioned, let alone detained by the police. “This is not an investigation, it is a campaign of intimidation, bullyism, and psychological warfare by the Police and the PPP. “No other person working in the Commission of any other ethnicity has been treated 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
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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.
Fire destroys CARICOM Auto Parts
Scenes from CARICOM Aoto Parts fire The Guyana Fire Service responded to reports of a fire at the bond of CARICOM Auto Parts Store at Lusignan, East Coast Demerara on
Friday. Fire Chief, Marlon Gentle, said that calls from residents about the fire began coming in around 14:00 hrs.
By the time firefighters arrived, the building had already been engulfed in flames which were beginning to threaten nearby buildings. They
were able to contain the fire but by that time it had already destroyed at least 80 million dollars in car parts. It was reported that
Scenes from CARICOM Aoto Parts fire
the fire was started by a customer after he was told that the store did not have a part he needed in stock. Imran Inshan, the owner of the business,
was told by his employees that after the customer was told the item was not available, he asked the employees to check for it. When they turned away from him he set fire to a piece of paper and threw it into the bond, thus starting the fire. The man then fled the scene on a bicycle. Inshan said he will review security footage to attempt to identify the man. The Fire Chief has said that the incident is being treated as arson. Investigations are still ongoing.
COVID deaths reach 103
The Ministry of Heath recorded 29 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday October 9, last. The total number of recorded cases in Guyana is now at 3,358. There have been 390 cases recorded in the last seven days. The death toll has increased to 103 with the deaths of a 28-year-old man from Region Two and a 57-year-old man from Region Four.
As of October 9, a total of 15,568 persons have been tested. The number of active cases in the country at 1,075. The Ministry continues to remind Guyanese to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures (NO. 9), which are in effect until October 31, 2020.
This emphasises
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 handhygiene to help reduce the spread of order COVID-19 the
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HOROSCOPE
Aries (March 21-April 19)
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
A two-faced person from your past could come back on the scene, and they’re still willing to say one thing to your face and do something completely different behind your back! This double-dealing person hasn’t changed, but you have. Their old tricks aren’t going to work this time, and you’ll have an absolute ball proving that to them. Be gentle when you give them their comeuppance, but don’t hesitate to do it in front of others.
Your urge to protect someone is admirable, but you need to realize that there’s a chance you could get dragged down with them. It’s not too late to distance yourself from the mess they’ve created, and you might want to do it. Sure, it might make you feel guilty, but do you think that this person would do the same for you? It’s time to stop making things so hard for yourself and start admitting that the easy way out isn’t always the wrong way out.
Take the risk of revealing yourself today and you won’t be disappointed. Gambling on the hope that people will like you for who you are is pretty much a sure thing right now. You are a lot more intriguing than you realize, and it’s in your best interests to be more outgoing. You need to be more open about who you are and what you bring to the group. It can feel frightening to let yourself be vulnerable, but there is no better way of connecting with people.
Staying conservative and cautious is the right strategy for your finances right now, but when it comes your emotions, you need to liberally spread them around! Share your feelings with anyone who is willing to listen to them today. Even if you don’t feel like you have much to say, you should just start talking. Once you start expressing yourself to others, they’ll start expressing themselves more openly to you. Be happy about where you are and what you’re doing!
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
You can ensure a positive outcome on a project you’re working on if you stop putting out negative energy! Instead of focusing on the looming deadline or the obstacles still to overcome, focus on the progress you’ve made and the wonderful feeling you’ll have when it’s all done! Putting a positive spin on things and seeing the bright side isn’t as difficult as you think. You can choose to be happy right now, so why don’t you? Pretend your woes don’t exist and, for a while, they won’t.
When there are lots of things going on, you might tend to clam up and get quiet. This is smart because it enables you to check out the scene before diving in and getting involved. But today you should wear your emotions on your sleeve. Letting your true personality show right away will show people who you are and separate you from everyone else. Making yourself stand apart will give you a huge advantage over others.
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
E-mails may be efficient and convenient, but they aren’t the best way to get your message across today. Misinterpretation is bound to pop happen when a person can’t understand your tone of voice, so try to deliver all messages in person or by video chat. Plus, if there’s any confusion, it’s much easier to clear it up when you’re looking at someone as you explain yourself. Besides, it offers you another opportunity to connect with people on a deeper level.
Try to make sure that all your verbal communication is concise and to the point. Don’t just yak and beat around the bush about what you want to say. People simply don’t have time to make small talk right now. There is too much going on. While you might want to chitchat, it probably isn’t going to be possible right now. Take a cue from the busy folks around you and keep it short! You might consider sending e-mails instead.
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
Your energy is much less erratic than it has been over the past few days, and you can count on having a consistent attitude about things all day long. But still, don’t worry if you find your mind wandering a little during a boring conversation or routine meeting. Staying engaged could still be a problem for you, so it’s not a great day to do research or work on difficult projects. You’re better suited for brainstorming right now.
Your brain has more creativity in it than you’ve been using lately, and today it might be too much to bear! To ease the pressure, put a little bit of creative flair into everything you do. Dress with a little more color. Make your salutations a little bit more remarkable than “hello.” Spice up your e-mails to friends with rhymes or quotes. Imagination has been missing from your life lately, so add some today!
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
If you’re charged with being a leader today, there’s one thing you need to remember. If you only want everyone to like you, you’re not going to get anyone to follow your instructions. Keeping everyone’s needs satisfied might make you popular, but it’s not going to help you make important decisions that help you all accomplish the task at hand. You know what you’re doing, and you should trust that people are ready to follow your lead. Show them the way to go.
Your busy life has been quite entertaining, but it has also kept you from spending more time with all your favorite people! Slow down. Cancel some appointments or reschedule them for another day. Make time to talk with your friends or family undisturbed. Send out some messages and find out when everyone is free for a good, long chat. Chances are they could use an excuse to slow down their own busy lives, too.
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THE SPATE OF ARRESTS IS TARGETED AT THE ELECTIONS PETITION Former Min.Volda Lawrence
It is a move to disqualify potential witnesses…says Volda Lawrence Former Minister of Health, Volda Lawrence, returned to the Criminal Investigations Department, Eve Leary, today. She went there with Chief Elections Officer,
Keith Lowenfield, and political activist Carol Joseph. She was critical of the method the police are adopting. “If they want to solve an issue you can’t use the big stick method first. You cannot seek to destroy people; you cannot seek to use inhumane tactics to get people to speak and to cooperate with you.” She said that what Coalition activist, Carol Joseph, is going through is unbelievable. Carol Joseph was also pulled in by the police for reasons
best known to the police and their directorate. “What my colleague and comrade, Carol Joseph-Smith, is going through is unbelievable. What they’re bringing up…because everybody who sat there at the Kingston office and witnessed the reading out of the statements of poll by the Returning Officer. “So everybody is an accomplice.” Ms. Lawrence said that Ms. Joseph was not there alone. And what she did was because she was a party agent.
Ms. Lawrence was there in the same capacity doing what all party agents have been doing over the years. “This is not the first time we have acted in this position and we haven’t done anything different from what we have done in the past. “So how come in the past we didn’t do something wrong and now it is wrong? Something is not right. I see it as political harassment. “What transpired with someone like Ms. Roxanne Myers, a former lecturer at the University
of Guyana is way past any form of courtesy or seeking justice in the right direction.” She said that the action by the police is definitely intended to humiliate all those arrested. It is disrespect, she added. “Why she had to sleep in the lockup? Why she couldn’t go on bail?” She is certain that the police are carrying out the task of the PPP political directorate. She said that there is a lot of pressure on women. All the people being harassed are women. Ms.
work to resolve whatever issues come up… We can do that in a very cordial way because all of us want the best for our healthcare workers and we have to work together to improve the system.” Dr. Anthony said he expects cordial deliberations to take place as the government continues to ensure that frontline workers are given the requisite gear to deliver the best service Nurses have been protesting for better pay and risk allowances over the last few weeks
Complex in Region Ten. Last week, GPSU President, Patrick Yarde, issued the ultimatum that the union would await a “positive response” from the Minister by October 6 or the union will work to mobilise and support countrywide protest action and strikes. The sum of $150 Gov. Adviser Jennifer Westford million was allocated to at facilities across the the frontline workers in the country; the GPHC, the recently approved budget West Demerara Regional and health workers at the Hospital in Region Three, GPHC working directly the Fort Wellington with COVID-19 patients, Hospital in Region Five have been receiving risk and the Linden Hospital allowances.
Lawrence said that she has nothing but pity for the GECOM Chairperson. “These are her staff and she is not sending a clear message. She is not giving them any protection. I believe she needs to take stock of what is happening. Who would want to work there? She said that this is programme by the p[olice, under the direction of the PPP, is designed to clean out GECOM. It is also designed to disqualify some of these people from testifying in the pending elections petition.
Strike by nurses put on hold
GPSU Vice-President, Dawn Gardener
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strike by nurses attached to the G e o rg e t o w n Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), which was planned to commence yesterday was put on hold after the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) agreed to negotiate the demands of the workers with the Government. The negotiation will continue over the next two weeks. On Wednesday, GPSU Vice-President, Dawn Gardener, and government adviser, Dr. Jennifer Westford,
signed an agreement for the commencement of negotiations between the two sides. General Secretary of the GPSU, Kempton Alexander, confirmed that there was a discussion to have the demands made by the health workers be negotiated over a twoweek period. “The government has come to an agreement to meet our demands but our strike action has not been abandoned or withdrawn. But it is just put on hold, if they don’t meet our demands in the two weeks we will take an industrial
move.” Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony said, “I am really happy that decision was made, and that we will
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It’s a case of constitutional reform Dear Editor,
The question of constitutional reform has once again surfaced and whether it will make the front-burner and be pursued earnestly and honestly is of course another matter. I read with great interest a letter written by Henry Jeffrey in the Stabroek News titled “Constitutional Reform. The Constitution at 40.” Henry’s well written analysis is useful and I believe should be read by all political party activists and concerned citizens, old and young I share much of the sentiments and analysis in his letter. However, when the lawyers, constitutional experts and politicians complete the new draft, the intractable question remains. Will Guyana be blessed with a breed of religious, business and political leaders who are genuine patriots and prepared to make certain sacrifices in the interest of the community and country? After constitutional engineering, will we have conscientious statesmen
and women with a vision, knowledge of our history and therefore with the capability to avoid past mistakes? But far and above all this, will our religious bodies, institutions of learning and parental guidance facilitate the emergence of citizens with a solid, moral rudder? The next period must also share the full history of those of who were here before the Europeans came, those who were enslaved and those who came as immigrants. All done by the Europeans who came in search for gold and glory. Our new leaders must be wedded to the idea that for a plural society to flourish, we must never ignore the hemorrhage caused by the European powers, which constituted the wellknown divide and rule policy and unfortunately after Independence this became an internecine struggle between two ethnic groups. Our new leaders must also be conscious that deep down, there still exists attitudes, which determine who should be at the bottom of the ladder.
Look around the world that now influences Guyana and we see extant this – If you’re black stay back, if you’re brown stick around, if you’re white, you’re alright. This is a serious matter and the educators, religious leaders, business leaders, parents and guardians need to take account of all the relevant factors. I know this is the hardest nut to crack but if all of us are to benefit from the Creator’s rich bounty we must stop and ponder and hand-in-hand be triumphant. I heard one of our enduring patriots, Dr. Yesu Persaud, state that we came in different ships, but we are now in the same boat and may I add, we must all paddle, responding to the drumbeat, whether it be the tassa or the congo-drum, but it must be to inspire us and paddle together in harmony trust and love. May I add this final caveat, if there is no trust, there can be no forward movement. Hamilton Green
Robert Corbin hospitalized after testing positive for COVID-19
Road fatalities increase dramatically
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he Guyana N a t i o n a l Road Safety Council (GNRSC) said on Wednesday that 112 persons lost their lives due to road accidents over the last nine months this year. This is an increase of over 40% from 2019. Coordinator of the GNRSC, Ramona Doergen, said that the deaths resulted from 103 accidents. During the same period last year, 70 accidents occurred which resulted in 74 deaths. The GNRSC has embarked on an early awareness program to have an impact before the start of National Road Safety Week in November. Doergen noted the importance of campaigns in education of the public and enforcement of road safety laws. Traffic Chief, Ramesh
Ashram, said that Police have embarked on an initiative to place more Police ranks at intersections during peak hours since this forces drivers to observe the rules. He said it was found that “where drivers observe Police, they will adhere.” Ashram also noted that the placement of ranks along the roadways on the East Coast and East Bank of Demerara has led to “a great reduction of accidents, especially fatal ones.” Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, said the Government will make provisions in the next National Budget to construct bicycle lanes and install more pedestrian overpasses and traffic lights, traffic signs and signals to help increase the safety of roadways for
pedestrians and drivers. A ‘No Mask, No Ride’ policy was also launched. Minister of Public Affairs within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, shared the idea of policy with the GNRSC and it was quickly adopted. McCoy said the principle is simple, “If you do not have on a mask, you do not get into the minibus. It is the conductor and the driver who should ensure that it does not happen. If you are going into a vehicle and you see people without masks, then do not join the vehicle.” Coordinator Doergen said reducing the spread of COVID-19 on public transportation is critical since 75 percent of the population travel using public transportation.
104 COVID cases in one day
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Mr. Robert Corbin
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ormer Opposition Leader and leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Robert Corbin, has been hospitalised after testing positive for COVID-19. The 72-year-old was in serious condition on
Tuesday but is now stable after being admitted to the Infectious Diseases Hospital at Liliendaal. Corbin became weak at home and a decision was made to have him hospitalised after he exhibited symptoms of COVID-19.
His wife, Carol Corbin, who is head of the Public Procurement Commission, has also tested positive for the virus but is not showing serious symptoms and has self-isolated at home.
he Ministry of Heath recorded 104 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday October 7, taking the total number of recorded cases in Guyana to 3,292. The death toll remains at 99 with 19 of those deaths being recorded in October. As of October 7, 15,360 persons have been tested for the virus and 2,084 have recovered. This
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leaves the number of active cases in the country at 1,109. Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, said that 200 inmates of the Lusignan Prison who tested positive for COVID-19, are no longer infectious and can be reintegrated into the prison population. “From a medical point of view, since they are no longer infectious, we can return them to Lusignan.
That is something that the personnel at the isolation centre and the prison authority would have to discuss so that all these persons who have been discharged can go back to the prison setting.”, the Minister said. President Irfaan Ali also continued to ask that citizens not take the coronavirus pandemic lightly and to follow the recommended health guidelines.
GECOM DEPUTY CEO REMAINS IN POLICE CUSTODY
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he Deputy Chief Election Officer, R o x a n n e Myers, was taken into Police custody on Tuesday morning and remains in custody after refusing to answer questions from the Police in their investigation of alleged electoral fraud. Myers’s Attorney, Nigel Hughes, said that she was moved to the Beterverwagting Police station and has been refused station bail. He also said the only charge put to her is obstruction
A statement issued by of justice because of her the Police Force rejected decision to exercise her the claims made by the right not to answer any Attorney regarding the questions posed to her.
Digicel is getting ready to bring a new era of connectivity and opportunity to the people of Guyana on the back of the news that the new Government has moved quickly to remove the 31-year GT&T telecoms monopoly. The telephone company alleged that the monopoly resulted in poor choice, poor quality, poor coverage and poor service. With a McKinsey study showing that 10% higher broadband penetration delivers a GDP boost to a country of up to 1.4%, and Guyana poised to become the fastest
growing economy in the world on foot of the biggest oil discovery in years, access to world class telecommunications services – and all the attendant benefits and opportunities they bring – will mean that everyday people will also feel the benefits. Gregory Dean, CEO of Digicel Guyana, said, “To say that this day has been a long time coming is an understatement. For 16 long years, we have asked, requested, pushed, lobbied and pressured. “Today, finally, that day is here. At Digicel, we firmly believe that access to broadband is a basic
Roxanne Myers
reason for the Deputy CEO’s arrest. The statement said that the Myers was being held in custody for conspiracy to defraud. The Guyana Police Force has been conducting a comprehensive investigation into alleged criminal conduct of the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, Returning Officer of Region Four, Clairmont Mingo, and several others, in relation to the March 2, 2020 Genera and Regional Elections.
Lowenfield, is facing private criminal charges filed by political representatives of the People’s Progressive Party and the New Movement party. The charges alleged that he engaged in fraud, misconduct in office and breach of public’s trust. Mingo is facing four charges alleging that he misconducted himself in public office and is also before another court facing a joint electoral fraud charge with former Health Minister and PNC/R Chairperson,
Volda Lawrence, for conspiracy to commit fraud. Lowenfield is scheduled to make his next court appearance on Friday, October 9, 2020, and Mingo’s next court dates are November 16, 2020, and December 15, 2020. Today, he reported to the Criminal Investigations Department with his lawyer, Nigel Hughes. Also reporting to CID Headquarters was Volda Lawrence and Carol Joseph.
Digicel retools to capitalize on liberalisation human right. Now, the people of Guyana can look forward to a brighter future with affordable access to world-class connectivity solutions that can catapult them to the forefront of the knowledge and digital economy.” “We are stepping into our future with confidence and are getting ready to make the transformational benefits of high-speed connectivity a powerful reality for Guyanese. “We look forward to a short administrative process to grant us the necessary permissions to make the desired expansions and upgrades Mr. Gregory Dean, CEO of Digicel of our services.”
Three more COVID-19 deaths recorded
The Ministry of Health (MOH) has reported that as of Wednesday October 7, three more persons who tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) have died. The deceased are a
41-year-old woman and a 64-year-old man, both from Region Four, and a 58-year-old man from Region One. The death toll has now increased to 99. There have been 19 COVID-19
related deaths so far in the first week of October. The Ministry is reminding Guyanese to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures (NO. 9), which are in effect until October
31, 2020. The 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
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others; and the need for good hand-hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The Ministry of Health did not report any new cases of COVID-19 for Tuesday October 6 as the
National Public Health Reference Laboratory is still working to validate the COVID-19 results. 15,265 persons had been tested for the virus and 2,017 persons have recovered.
The truth of the confrontation between the police and Roxanne Myers I have read what purports to be a press release from the Guyana Police Force dated October 7, 2020 and which release is titled, “Police Statement Regarding Arrest of Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Ms. Roxanne Myers.” Might I state
The interview was captured on video and my narration of the events, as they actually unfolded, can be corroborated by the video recording, pre-supposing that the integrity of the video recording is preserved. The interview was conducted by Assistant
Mr. Caesar then asked Ms. Myers if she would mind removing her mask briefly to permit the camera to capture her face. He made it clear that this was not compulsory. Ms. Myers politely declined observing that she is sensitive to the Covid-19 risk and wanted to avert
Defendant, Lawer Nigel Hughes categorically that the narration of the police of the events subsequent to Ms. Myers voluntarily attending the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Eve Leary, is a radical, deliberate, and unfortunate departure from the truth. I remained at CID with Ms. Myers after Mr.
Superintendent of Police (ASP), Mr. (Michael) Caesar, Head of Major Crimes Unit, who introduced himself in these terms. He introduced Inspector Nigel Stephens as his scribe and Corporal Desmond Johnny as the operator of the video equipment. The interview commenced at 12:07 p.m.
any risk. What follows is a substantively verbatim record of the questions ASP Caesar asked Ms. Myers and her responses: Mr. Caesar: Ms. Myers, are you employed by GECOM? Ms. Myers: I reserve my right to remain silent. Mr. Caesar: Ms. Myers,
This time was relayed to me by ASP Caesar. I inquired from ASP Caesar at the outset whether Ms. Myers was being treated as a suspect in the commission of any offence. He explicitly responded that she was not a suspect.
are you Deputy CEO of GECOM? Ms. Myers: I reserve my right to remain silent. Mr. Caesar: Ms. Myers, are you, were you a part of the staff that worked during the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections?
Some of the protesters Hughes was required to return to the Criminal Assizes. I sat through the police interview with Ms. Myers and remained at the CID up until Ms. Myers was being put into the police van to be taken to the Beterverwagting Police Station.
Ms. Myers: I reserve my right to remain silent. Mr. Caesar: Ms. Myers, is your office located at Barack and Fourth Streets Kingston, Georgetown? Ms. Myers: I reserve my right to remain silent. Mr. Caesar: Ms. Myers, could you please state your present address. Ms. Myers: I reserve my right to remain silent. Mr. Caesar: Ms. Myers, do you have any supervisory control over the… of GECOM Headquarters. Ms. Myers: I reserve my right to remain silent. Mr. Caesar: An interview was done with Mr. Keith Lowenfield. Do you know Mr. Lowenfield? Ms. Myers: I reserve my right to remain silent. Mr. Caesar: In that interview Mr. Lowenfield was asked for certified copies of the SOP used to make two (2) declarations in the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections. He said he was on leave and we must ask you for those documents. Are you in possession of those documents? Ms. Myers: I reserve my right to remain silent. Mr. Caesar: Ms. Myers, the police need those documents to conduct an investigation. Your holding those documents could cause you to be charged for obstructing an investigation. Ms. Myers: I reserve my right to remain silent. *Insp. Stephens intervened at this time to clarify with Mr. Caesar whether the documents he is referring to are the SOPs. Mr. Caesar: Ms. Myers, when last you went to work at GECOM office at Barack and Fort Street?
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Roxanne Myers
Ms. Myers: I reserve my right to remain silent. Mr. Caesar: Ms. Myers, are you living at the address on the record at GECOM office for you? Ms. Myers: I reserve my right to remain silent. **Mr. Caesar then indicated that was the end of the interview unless Mr. Stephens wanted to ask anything further. Mr. Caesar, especially, was visibly frustrated by Ms. Myers responses. Mr. Stephens signalled to Mr. Caesar for them to speak outside. They asked for an excuse. They returned to the room a few short minutes after. When they returned to the room Mr. Caesar said as follows: Mr. Caesar: Counsel, I will now have to put an allegation to your client for perverting the course of justice.
Mr. Caesar: Ms. Myers: It is alleged that you are perverting the course of justice and as such you will be placed in custody. During the course of the investigations we will have persons to confront you with. Mr. Caesar then invited Ms. Myers to exit the room where he placed her in the custody of Women Inspectors Castello and McBean whom he instructed to book her and take her to Beterverwagting Police Station. I maintain that at no time did ASP Caesar, Insp. Stephens, or any other police officer, on or off camera, put the allegation of ‘conspiracy to defraud’ to Ms. Myers. Ronald J. Daniels Senior Associate Attorney-at-Law Hughes, Fields & Stoby
By Sir Ronald Sanders
Editorial Dismissals and supersessions represent the new government order
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he head of government always says that he will lead on behalf of all the people. That should mean that everyone would have equal access to everything that the government controls. But the society is seeing that this is not really the case. In fact, one is led to believe that incompetent or people who were less than competent actually occupied positions of leadership in the various branches of the society. One would arrive at this conclusion when one looks at the people who are being replaced in the various government and state agencies. One can ask about the reason for the replacements but rest assured, one would never get an accurate answer. Vincent Adams, perhaps the most qualified of the people to head the Environmental Protection Agency, was simply swept aside. There was a brief article that suggested that Adams’s affiliation to the Alliance For Change may have had something with the government removing him. This has been a common feature for
the most part. Dr. Richard Van West Charles headed the Guyana Water Inc. He conducted a massive potable water programme in the Rupununi and in other parts of the
conviction that the replacement is better than the person who was in place. It may be a case of paying someone for political support during the March 2
remains the deputy. There has been no promotion for Dr. Karen Boyle. The government appointed another supporter to the top position, leaving Dr. Boyle where
There are advisers everywhere. Robeson Benn has an adviser at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Dr. Frank Anthony has two at the Ministry of Health—but since
country. Places that never had potable water were now enjoying water flowing through their taps. Yet Dr. Van West Charles was removed as soon as the government changed. He still had another year on his contract but he was removed. One can only imagine that the society has come to accept such removals on the ground of politics. It seems that even the reporters believe that such removals are the norm. Perhaps at one of the press conferences someone may make bold to ask questions about the removals. No one can say with
elections. The Guyana Sugar Corporation has a new Chief Executive Officer. People may remember that after the elections this individual was part of a team granted a contract to investigate some happening involving the operations of the Coalition administration. The PPP said that the investigation was done pro bono; so the Guysuco job has to be the payoff. This individual a few years back proclaimed support for the AFC. He got no big position back in 2015 so he shifted his loyalty once more. The Deputy Chief Medical Officer
she has been for a while. Karen Boyle’s physical appearance may have conveyed the impression that she is not a supporter of the People’s Progressive Party. The result is that she is not good enough to be the bride. There have been adjustments in some other areas. Suddenly Guyana is seeing the largest number of advisers. Some ministries now have two. These advisers supersede the professionals who have been working there. The minister must now listen to his advisers. More dismissals could follow on the grounds of redundancy.
their appointment COVID-19 deaths have gone through the roof—and even Priya Manickchand has an adviser at the Education Ministry. And while all this shuffling and replacing is going on, the political campaign must go on. Opponents must be prepared to be attacked with fabrications. David Granger has been accused of buying a Sports Utility Vehicle for $35 million. The records show otherwise but the government is not changing that tune. Even Charles Ramson whose intelligence is questionable— he wanted to be the presidential candidate; then he
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wanted to be an oil expert after he was so dubbed by Kaieteur News; then he could not pronounce battalion—takes to social media that his party has found the vehicle but can’t find Granger. Granger is very much a public figure. Just Monday he was officiating at a public function at Agricola, East Bank Demerara. Perhaps those incidents are blips in Irfaan Ali’s pledge to lead on behalf of everyone. Then something happens. He says that he will not deal with the political opposition until it stops saying that his government is illegal. One cannot rule on behalf of an individual or group of people with whom one has no discussion. But what is all this talk about not holding discussions until one side stops saying that the government is illegal. Five years ago the PPP was saying that the Coalition was illegal. Do suh nah like suh. Joseph Heller wrote a classic, Catch 22. This is recommended reading if one is to understand the present government.
Ministry of Housing warns against land allocation scam
Hon.Collin Croal
The Ministry of Housing is reminding the public to be alert for phone calls from a person or persons claiming to be the Minister of Housing & Water, Collin Croal, on the premise of allocating house lots to single parents in the Providence, Lusignan, and Dairy areas
for $100,000. Persons are being asked to send money to an MMG Account which is falsely being linked to the Office of the First Lady, Ms. Arya Ali, under the pretext of payment for the house lot. The Ministry wanted to make it clear that no Land allocation is made directly from the Minister’s office. All allocations are made by the Central Housing & Planning Authority (CH&PA) using the prescribed procedures established by the agency. Applications and at Vreed-en-Hoop RDC Compound, Region Two, 5, New Amsterdam, RDC interviews are done at the Compound Region Three, Fort Wellington RDC Compound, Region Six, regional offices located Anna Regina, RDC compound Region Five Lethem, Region Nine and
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Linden, Region Ten. The Ministry cautioned persons against participating in any unlawful transactions. They recognize that the demand for housing is great and continually growing and it presents an atmosphere for the criminal elements to thrive on persons’ gullibility during this period. The Ministry assures all applicants, that applications will be dealt with in due process as work towards satisfying the obj ect i ve of adequat e housi ng as a basi c hum an r i ght .
Jury trials have restarted
J
ury Trials have recommenced. On Tuesday, October 6, 2020, the Demerara Assizes opened and two juries were empaneled in the cases of The State v Desmond James and The State v Keron Taylor. The judges presiding are Justice Brassington Reynolds, Justice
Navindra Singh and Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. Justice Priya SewnarineBeharry conducted another empaneling on Wednesday. Both James and Taylor were freed on the first day of the court hearings. The judge, Justice Navindra Singh, upheld no-case submissions. The two men who
were represented by Mark Conway and Nigel Hughes, respectively, were indicted for the 2014 stabbing to death of Glendon Cox, at Aranka, North West District. Jury trials were suspended since March due to the incidence of COVID-19. On Monday, October 5, 2020, Justice Brassington Reynolds
resumed a jury trial which commenced in March 2020 but had to be adjourned due to the COVID 19 pandemic. These resumptions are a monumental achievement as many jurisdictions worldwide have been unable to restart this essential judicial service. The Judiciary of Guyana has been working
assiduously over the past 6 months to facilitate the safe resumption of jury trials for the October Session of the Demerara Assizes. Similar efforts are being undertaken with respect to the Essequibo and Berbice Assizes. These efforts at resuming jury trials have been in recognition of the fact that Jury service is integral to the criminal justice system of Guyana. A number of measures have been put in place for the safe conduct of cases. For instance: Judges, Jurors, court staff, attorneys-at-law and all court users will be socially distanced. Cameras, video link and video conferencing facilities have been installed. Plexiglass has been placed around witness boxes, desks and other furniture Sanitizing dispensers are in all courtrooms and constant sanitisation of jury seating, court furniture, exhibits and the
courtroom will be done. Temperature screening will also be conducted upon entry of everyone to the court compound. The summoning of a jury panel is staggered to allow for social distancing. Court corridors have been utilized to accommodate the empaneling of juries. The media is allowed to report on the trials remotely by audio visual link. The members of the public especially relatives of accused or victims may also view trials by video link. These measures are dealt with extensively in our protocols for the resumption of jury trials during the Covid 19 pandemic. We are heartened by the fact that the Guyana Prison Service and the Guyana Police Force, who are all important actors in the Criminal Justice process are on board with the provision of courtrooms and IT facilities at the prison.
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Amerindian & Foods GUYANA’S AMERINDIAN Guyana’s Amerindian population consists of several tribes, including the Caribs, Wapisianas, Arawaks, and Warraus. Anthropologists believe that Amerindian tribes were Guyana’s first inhabitants, arriving around 11,000 years ago. They settled lowlying coastal regions of the country, where they fished, hunted, and used a variety of plant species to produce fibers, oils, dyes, and a variety of different dishes. Over the centuries, Guyana’s Amerindian population migrated inland, penetrating the dense jungle via the country’s extensive river system, constructing temporary and permanent settlements. While Amerindians dwelling in coastal regions lived on turtles, fish, crabs, and snails, those inhabiting the savannahs hunted various types of mammal, including deer, monkey, and sloth, as well as various types of waterfowl. Guyana’s indigenous eetay palm is an important source of flour in Amerindian cuisine, while the country’s interior is also rich in cashews and wild honey.
CASSAVA BREAD
Amerindian cuisine remains incredibly popular in Guyana, both within traditional indigenous villages and in towns and cities. In 2014 Tuma Sálâ opened in Georgetown, establishing itself as the country’s first Amerindian restaurant.
PEPPERPOT – TASTY TRADITIONAL GUYANESE DISH
Image courtesy International Institute of Tropical Agriculture | Flick Next, the fully dried cassava root, resembling off-white flour, is poured into circular forms to cook over a fire. It is hung to dry and is soon ready to eat. While cassava bread is one of Guyana’s best known and loved foods, its preparation can require days of travel to obtain the right ingredients.
Made from just cassava and salt, farine can be mixed with sugar and milk, creating a nutritious drink. It can safely be stored over long periods, and it is an effective thickening agent for stews and soups. Farine can also be used as a stuffing for chicken or fish, and it forms a key component in several sweet dishes, such as white pudding, coconut rock buns, and black cake. PEPPERPOT – TASTY TRADITIONAL GUYANESE DISH G u y a n e s e Pepperpot is an Amerindian dish popular in Guyana and sometimes called pepper pot stew by the locals. It is traditionally served at Christmas and other special events; it is also Guyana’s national dish. Pepper pot is typically a stewed meat dish, strongly flavored with cinnamon, hot peppers, and Cassareep – a special sauce made from the Cassava root. Beef, mutton, and pork are the most popular meats used, though some have been known to use chicken. Pepperpot is popularly served with dense bread and butter, though it is equally as good with rice or roti
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TELECOMMUNICATIONS SECTOR LIBERALISED
Prime Minister, Brigadier Mark Phillips, has announced that the Government of Guyana issued Commencement Orders to fully bring into force the Telecommunications Act 2016 and the Public Utilities Commission Act 2016 The commencement of these Acts is described as historic. It will be aligning Guyana’s telecommunications regime to those found
in other countries in the world and ending a thirtyyear-old anti-competitive telecommunications monopoly. The implementation of these pieces of legislation will create a modern and competitive environment for telecommunications, greater choices, better quality of service and lower prices for consumers and will ensure that all operators continue to enjoy the same benefits provided by the previous
legislature. The Prime Minister also said that this step is consistent with the government’s vision of furthering national and regional social and economic development. The Telecommunications Act will address the expansion of telecommunications networks and services into unserved and underserved areas through the institution of a new
universal access and services programme. It will create a level playing field for the sector with a clear framework. There will also be transparency and nondiscrimination in the issuance and monitoring of licences and authorisations to use the spectrum, seamless interconnection and access between telecommunications networks and services, and price regulation. It will also guarantee equal
treatment of stakeholders and benefits and protection for consumers. T h e Telecommunications Act 2016 was first laid out in the 9th Parliament in August 2011, and again in the 10th Parliament in 2012. The Act was finalised before the 2015 elections. It was enacted by the Coalition Government in 2016 by Minister Catherine Hughes, with bipartisan support.
However, only a few sections of the Act were put into force. Prime Minister Phillips emphasised that these legislations straddled administrations, and were the subject of extensive negotiations with stakeholders which lasted nearly a decade. The Prime Minister continued to point out that universal and competitive access to telecommunications is pivotal to Guyana’s developmental trajectory especially in the face of the Covid-19 crisis. The Government of Guyana remains ready and willing to work with all stakeholders to ensure that every Guyanese has affordable access to quality and modern services which they so badly deserve, as well as ensuring that the existing operators suffer no disadvantage whatsoever as they continue business in the sector.
Personnel are currently on the ground working on the connections, and GPL expects to see the project completed by the end of the month. Once it is competed it will help to mitigate blackouts on the East
Coast Demerara corridor. Ramtahal also stated that preliminary works are beginning for another 30 megawatts of power for the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System. The third project is a “dual engine for Garden of Eden to 46.5 megawatts.”. This project is expected to be implemented by the second quarter of 2021. “By that time, we should be able to be in a better position to manage our reliability of electricity in this country,” Ramtahal said. The DCEO explained that since his appointment he has uncovered a number of inconsistencies in the company’s previous management. “I’m there for just two weeks, but I’ve discovered
[that] over the last four to five years, investments to generation was under five per cent, [which is] merely seven megawatts.” He said that there is a very low generation reserve. There are not enough “spinning reserves” or spare reserves to ensure that the grid continues operating in the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System when there are problems. The reserve is intended to allow reliable connections and ensure supply capacity is always above the demand. When the reserve is too low and power consumption in an area is above normal, bl ackout s or power out ages occur.
GPL to obtain power from Giftland Mall by month end
Giftland Mall
Samaroo Ramtahal, the new Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Strategic Operations at Guyana Power and Light Inc.(GPL), has said that the company will be looking to secure power from the Giftland
Mall, through a Power Purchase Agreement. GPL has several projects in train to maximise the potential of power generation in both the short and long term. Obtaining power from Giftland is one of three avenues the
company is considering. GPL is looking to obtain an additional five megawatts of power from the Giftland system which has a 6.7 megawatt output capacity but only uses 1.6 megawatts during prime operations.
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Hess selling interest in Shenzi field to fund Payara Project U.S. oil company, Hess, has agreed to sell its 28 percent interest in the Shenzi field in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico to BHP for $505 million. It proposes to use the money for operations in Guyana. The Shenzi field is operated by BHP with a 44 percent stake. 28 percent is owned by Hess and the remaining 28 percent is owned by Repsol. The sale to BHP will add around 11,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day of production, of which 90 percent is oil. John Hess, CEO of Hess, said the sale was
BHP President of Petroleum Operations, Geraldine Slattery
aligned with Hess’s strategy to preserve cash “and preserve the longterm value of our assets in the current low oil price environment.” The proceeds would be used to fund their investment in the Payara development project that was recently approved for Exxon. BHP President of Petroleum Operations, Geraldine Slattery, said, “This transaction aligns with our plans to enhance our petroleum portfolio by targeted acquisitions in high quality producing deepwater assets and the
continued de-risking of our growth options. “We are purchasing the stake in Shenzi at an attractive price, it’s a tierone asset with optionality, and key to BHP’s Gulf of Mexico heartland. As the operator, we have more opportunity to grow Shenzi high-margin barrels and value with an increased working interest.” The transaction is expected to close before the end of 2020 and is subject to customary closing conditions.
A 28-year-old mother of three is killed by her estranged reputed husband
Clarabel Yolanda Johnson
Domestic violence is one of the most common features in Guyanese life. It is only surpassed by child abuse. Another woman, Clarabel Yolanda Johnson, died horribly at the hands of her estranged reputed husband, in Albouystown, Georgetown. The killer was 45-yearold Nicholas Shawn Williams. Clarabel Johnson was 28 years old and a mother of three. Alvin Johnson, a brother, was not around but he learnt of the murder. “I see she and she children father in a talking. He chop she in the street. I get a call and I went to the
hospital. That was when I know that she dead.” He said that at the hospital he saw his other relatives in various states of distress. He spoke of the clashes between the two and these have been ongoing. “The last time when they fight I wasn’t around. I was working in Suriname.” Yolanda’s Brother A friend of the now dead victim, Candacy Leung, was near to the crime scene. “Me son was awake. So when I wake up he seh Aunty Bella went to you. He didn’t open the door. Me phone ring and
I answer it. Was me friend who tell me to come quick to carry Bella at the hospital. She just get chop up.” In tears she spoke of the friendship she shared with the woman she called Bella. “We does go and sell on the market. We go from Parika Market to Mon Repos. We always deh hustling.” She said that there were constant conflicts with the assailant to the extent that the victim moved out to live with her mother. She spoke of the marks of violence her friend bore. “When I ask she how
Yolanda Johnson Mother he jaw; all over.” The dead woman’s mother, Patricia Johnson, recalled the events leading up to the killing. She said that she saw her daughter early in the morning. It was a ritual that the now dead Clarabel would awake and greet the household. Sometimes she would return to bed. “About 6:00 she come in my room and sehe, ‘Morning Mommy.’ I sehe ‘Morning’. I think she gone back in she room because she does normally come out and tell me and she father
Clarabel Yolanda Johnson’s Mother explaining what happen
call about 6:20 ansd sehe that her daughter started ‘Uncle Aunty, look you the relationship with daughter get chop up. Nicholas Williams from “By the time we coulda the time she was 15, and run out; my husband run going to school. out. I had on my night She too spoke of the dress. I get so confused. constant abuse. She said I looking fuh clothes that her daughter moved and can’t find anything. My clothes deh right in front of me.” At the hospital, she was told that the doctors were trying to save Clarabel’s life. Not long after Yolanda Johnson’s Brother explaining she got the news that her back into her home almost you get all them marks? ‘good morning.’ I didn’t daughter had died. The seven years ago. When He give she all them know that she gone out on killing ended a long and she moved back in her last marks. Me friend get a the road. abusive relationship. child, a seven-year-old “Is when somebody long mark cross s Patricia Johnson said was just a baby.
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Min
COVID-19 Update
October 6 The Ministry of Health recorded 95 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday, October 5. 12 cases were recorded in Region One, four in Region Two, six in Region
Three, 37 in Region Four, one in Region Six, 11 in Region Seven, three in Region Eight, seven in Region Nine and 14 in Region Ten. The total number of cases in Guyana is now at
feet physical distance from others; and the need for good hand-hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. This order will remain in effect until October 31st, 2020.
3,188. The death toll has risen to 93 with the deaths of a 38-yearold man and an 84-year-old woman, both from Region 4 As of October 5 15,078 persons have
been tested for the virus. 1,972 have recovered leaving the number of active cases at 1,123. The Ministry continues to remind Guyanese to observe the protocols of
the COVID-19 Emergency Measures (NO. 9) emphasising the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home; the importance of maintaining the six
been dismissed for no reason other than their political affiliation. Then there is the political targeting of people attached to the Guyana Elections Commission. Just today, Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Roxanne Myers, was forced to respond to a wanted notice posted by the Criminal Investigations Department. She chose to remain silent in the presence of her lawyer, Nigel Hughes. The result is that the police have detained her at the Beterverwagting Police Station Lockups. The police contend that by her silence she was obstructing justice.
Some of the people were supposed to face private criminal charges. The absence of evidence led to the state intervening and conducting a series of investigations by arresting and detaining people. A m o n g those arrested outside of the private criminal charges are Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, former Health Minister Volda Lawrence, and four other
officers employed by questioned by the police. the Guyana Elections None has even been invited by the police. Certainly, they are facing no private criminal charges. The one person who faced charges other than the obviously Black elections officers to be hauled before the courts on electoral fraud charges has been Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission, Justice Claudette Singh. Commission. Almost immediately, All of these have appeared in court. Director of Public However, those elections Prosecutions, Shalimar agents who were Ali-Hack, nolle prosequi responsible for missing those charges. There are other such poll documents from ballot boxes have not been cases
Another GECOM official dragged in by CID
Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Roxanne Myers
Charged with government has been obstructing justice by presiding over what some remaining silent people say is rampant The Irfaan Ali persecution. Some have
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