Kaieteur News

K

AIETEUR US Secretary

April 08, 2020 - Vol. 15 No. 14

of State calls for transparent, credible recount

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Appeal Court reaffirms position for GECOM-supervised elections recount

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 08, 2020

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Political battle amidst oil boom By now, it is a restatement of the tiring obvious. But when presented by those distant from the ugly fray, it takes on added sharpness, while ramming home our blessing and our curses. From oilprice.com came this headline on April 6, “Political battle amidst world’s most spectacular oil boom.” Boom and bust is the perpetual day-to-day norm here in regular Guyana.

In the dry language of an uninvolved foreigner, we are reminded of how we waste our heritage with the draining political prodigality that hangs Guyana out before the whole world for the pathetic place that it is, which it may be doomed to always be. That is, unless we-leaders, supporters, and citizens-resolve powerfully and unswervingly to give up something to get something. To get to somewhere, other than where we are trapped and try to trick and torture one another, with what could be our sorry destiny.

The article spent some time telling us and plastering in our faces (unintentionally) all the disfiguring things that we know so well about ourselves, but do nothing about: no confidence furors, delayed elections, sectarianism (a proper substitute for local racial voting patterns and outright racial and racist instincts), corruption again, and the routine of the rest now so familiar, so sickening.

As usual, both the opposition and coalition were taken to task and flayed dispassionately for their failures. We here in Guyana react casually nowadays to such scorching reminders of our political, social, and individual depravities.

We have heard them so much, at the local level that it is now like water on a duck’s back. Tell us something we don’t already know! Is now the broad representation of our dismissive indifference; indeed, our now characteristic acceptance of the way we have always been, and our stoic determination that they stay the same way. It is almost as if there is more than mere resigned acceptance of our fate and circumstances. It is as if we welcome it and we thrive on it.

There is a passage in scripture that says, “there is nothing new under the sun” that whatever it is, it has been there before. Well, what we have has been with us forever, and it is killing us a little piece at a time. This makes us look imbecilic, and leave us standing naked and backward, and utterly retarded, before a bewildered world. Those people, those citizens of Guyana, have been given so much, but all they can do is make bigger fools of themselves, by emphasizing the worst angels in their nature.

So, the foreigners make fun of us, as they wonder how to help us out of our miseries, how to help themselves from our weaknesses. A pitiful people we are, who must be rescued from our endless orgies of self-destruction. And still we refuse to care, to condition ourselves to our domestic realities that warn: there is no progress, no success, as a collection of numerous diverse peoples should we insist on going along in this farcical and failure powered manner.

Still, we plough ahead senselessly, without care or concern in the world.

It is a world that laughs quietly at us, at the total waste of it all, of the pearls that nature (or that power from above) placed before us, and with which we do not know what to do with ourselves, but splurge our national patrimony in passionate and paralyzing dissensions. We foam at the mouth, tangle our feet, fall on our faces, and then rise up to repeat the cycle all over again.

No society can succeed with the baggage of such viruses that make the most hideous wretches of us. According to the analysis, lifting costs (operating) for Guyana is about $10 a barrel, (breakeven around $35) which means that production could still continue and “assumed to be enough to weather adverse conditions.” That is the helpful economics of Guyana’s oil spectacular. In the interim, “the immutable demographics” of our politics consign us to each other’s throats with a dagger in one hand, and a shovel in the other.

The latter is to bury thy neighbour. This is the sum of our fears, follies, and failures. But on those, we are immovable.

Timely response to this global health crisis must be mandatory DEAR EDITOR, The last thing I would want to do is spread inappropriate alarms and frighten further an already reeling and vulnerable population; at least the ones that care enough to be concerned about COVID-19 developments. But I would be irresponsible, if I were to be indifferent to some information that came to me or keep it to myself. I am troubled from having heard near similar stories from other people.

I think the Guyanese public needs to be made aware of what is really happening.

I think, as much as it may be found unwelcome and untimely, I must share to let the professionals and politicians know that close attention is being paid by some of us.

This is another call to go beyond the rhetoric and address the realities that cry out for real action.

Lives are involved, whole communities could be potentially impacted; the nation is at risk if the official and professional urgencies required are not forthcoming in a timely manner. They have not been in some instances with which I am familiar.

I open two daily

newspapers and I pause by the hotline numbers. That is a good and helpful facility. But they fail in terms of their presence, objectives, and effectiveness if little happens beyond the calls answered promptly and courteously (also good things).

If there are only smooth promises, and then the vacuum of silence, then those hotlines might as well not be there. I say this because of incidents shared by people who called and are still waiting for a call, a guiding hand, anything to comfort and allay apprehensions. There has been nothing in two instances and this is from weeks ago; the people are still here.

Similarly, I understand something else, and this is not from rumour or mischief or other improper behaviour at this time; it is from what I consider an honest and trusted source. It is that victim number five from the virus experienced delays with testing after contacting the hotline.

Now he is no more, with a grieving family left behind.

I feel for them. Worse yet, it is my understanding that the departed citizen may have been in contact with as many as a hundred persons (maybe even more) around the time

that the virus came, which is last week at the latest.

The problem and concern are that nobody has attempted to identify the cluster of persons with whom he had had confirmed interaction and take matters from there. For emphasis: those people may be walking around unknowingly with this virus and extending the circle of those, who could be affected.

My hope is that none caught this pestilence from him. The odds are not appealing. I would hope that a feared cluster is not in the making; or that it is not the same incomprehensible story for the four earlier victims.

Even more worryingly, and most inexcusably, I understand that the medical professionals wanted to address the deteriorating situation more aggressively, but were handicapped in doing so, because the man’s test results were locked in nonmedical hands, which is the now standard flow for test information.

Separately, I am aware that there are limited resources and available people are strapped tight. Nonetheless, we have to do more. Our public health leaders must demonstrate that they are doing everything to restrict the spread of this dreaded illness. We cannot hope for

the best and hope that we get lucky, while ignoring the potentially worse that may exist out there, but is left unattended, as in unquarantined.

This is confidencedraining and fear-inducing. It is insensible and defeats the positives marshalled and employed to wage a good fight, the best, against a dreadful adversary.

To repeat an earlier position, politics is still occupying too much of our interest, too much of energies, and too much of whatever residual good sense we may still have at our disposal.

It is way past the time for matters to be the other way around. That is, the virus and virus alone functioning as our highest priority, and while utilizing the greatest expenditure of our time, our finances, our efforts, and our devotions.

Think of this: we may emerge triumphant in an election, but lose lives, forced to deal with a ruined economic environment, and with whatever spirits we have left decimated.

This is what we face. I urge, therefore, that we do the right things in the right way at the right time. It is not related in any way to politics.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

Is the PSC attempting to manipulate the Int’l community and the electoral process?

DEAR EDITOR, I wish to respond to articles in the press on a recent statement from the Private Sector Commission (PSC) ‘Private Sector Opposes Total National Recount…’

I am not in PPP/C or an APNU/AFC camp, and I hold no brief for any political party, but I am beginning to question the motives and motivations of the Private Sector Commission as it relates to the 2 March, 2020 Elections.

It is my view that the last statement from the PSC indicating that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) should abandon plans for a total national recount of the votes cast, and instead focus on Region 4, is a clear attempt to be manipulative.

Last week, having read the contents in the PSC’s letter to the Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States (OAS), I thought that it was a total overreach, and wondered whether the PSC had metamorphosed into a political organisation.

Then there was another letter to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights by several civil society organisations, including the PSC. Now the Private Sector Commission, is attempting to direct whether there should be a recount of the votes cast in one, two, three, or all of the regions.

It is important that the Organisation of American States, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, the United States Government, the Canadian Government, The European Union, the United Kingdom government, the Commonwealth Secretariat and other members of the international community be cognizant of the fact, that most of the APNU+AFC supporters are black people and most of the supporters of the PPP/C are East Indians.

Many of the civil society organisations which were signatories to the letter to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, are perceived to be pro-PPP/C supporters, much of the PSC as well, is perceived to be pro-

PPP/C; hence the international community has to be careful, not to be playing into the race politics of Guyana.

The international community and governments ought to remain neutral. We all would like for democracy and rule of law to prevail in Guyana, and believe me it will; but it is important that in the process of achieving those, respect is shown to all sides, as far as possible.

If the PSC request is to be examined objectively, that only Region 4 ballots should be recounted; in fairness to the supporters from both political parties, then the APNU+AFC Coalition, thus far, got most of the votes; so why should they agree to the PSC request which is leaning towards the PPP/C line of advocacy.

We are negotiating a way out of this situation, PSC, and we must be fair. If there will not be a recount of the ballots for all ten regions, then we might as well swear in the Presidential candidate for APNU+AFC; fairness must be a key element in this

process.

The Private Sector ought to be more objective, and I am disappointed that the PSC is not being more subtle.

Technically, a winner has not been declared, therefore APNU+AFC nor the PPP/C has won the elections, neither is there a President-elect; don’t let’s confuse the Guyanese people any further.

I wish to make it clear, many people want a government that looks like them; I want the truth from the March 2 Elections. In my view, the truth lies in those ballot boxes for ALL ten regions, not only Region Four.

Whether the PPP/C or APNU+AFC should emerge as the winner, many of us are prepared to continue to serve our country and the government. So, let the recount begin from Region One to Ten! We want the truth! The truth shall set us free!

Maybe, I am too fair and objective; some people call it idealistic, but that is part of our problem in Guyana; even the most intelligent, wealthy (Continued on page 5)

Wednesday April 08, 2020

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Kaieteur News

Increase self sufficiency and food security - Provide seeds and local goods in COVID-19 food hampers DEAR EDITOR, Let me start this letter by first applauding all those entities that have begun distributing food hampers and other aid to vulnerable persons and communities in need in Guyana during this time of crisis. It is heartening to see this demonstration of care and concern for each other and the actions being undertaken are indeed commendable.

I would like to make a few suggestions, however, which have the potential to greatly increase the positive impact of these initiatives.

First- it would be wonderful if fresh fruits and vegetables could be purchased directly from Guyanese farmers for distribution in these hampers, not simply processed items from the large supermarkets.

Things like citrus, ground

provisions, and other fruits are essential to good health and are bountiful in Guyana.

Given that an enormous component of good health depends on ‘eating healthy’, including items like these, is of paramount importance now more than ever.

With the current restrictions on municipal vending, many farmers now have a huge problem finding markets for their produce and face the prospect of massive wastage and loss of income.

This does not need to be.

The New Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC) has, in recent years, purported to establish relationships with many farmers and local agroproducers; it should be easy therefore to tap into this knowledge and networks and turn a challenging situation into a win-win for all

concerned.

We have also seen an explosion of agro-processing in recent years, and there are many quality local goods available such as coconut oil, peanut butter from the Rupununi, dried fish of all kind, ‘bush teas’, spices, etc, which make up part of a healthy diet. Sourcing these items from local producers would reduce our dependency on imported goods, and also help keep these small businesses - many of which provide employment to other Guyanese and contribute to the economy via taxes etc. - afloat in these trying times.

In that vein, it would be excellent if seeds, seedlings, garden soil, and manure could be freely distributed to Guyanese as well, in addition to packaged and processed foodstuff. While not

PSC is afraid of a National Recount; I am not shocked DEAR EDITOR, I am not shocked that the Private Sector Commission is afraid of a total national recount and only wants the votes of District Four to be recounted. As a front for the People’s Progressive Party, they are echoing the PPP’s position, since that political party is afraid of a total national recount.

The recent action of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) has cemented my lingering thoughts of that organisation being a subset of the People’s Progressive Party. The shifting of the goalpost must not be allowed to continue, and the recent pronouncement by the PSC is a confirmation that they don’t want every vote to be counted. They are not interested in knowing the ‘real’ truth of the March 2, 2020 Regional and General Elections.

It is President David Granger that called for a total national recount, and I believe the entire country is in support of this call, mainly

because we have recognised that the People’s Progressive Party and all their surrogates, in their attempt to discredit District Four’s declaration, are not interested in what occurred in the other districts.

Many persons have spoken out about the other districts and the Deputy Chief Elections Officer submitted an affidavit to the High Court, where she related that eight of the nine districts used the spreadsheet method, and not the SOP by SOP method.

The questions that are now lingering in my mind are as follows: Are the PPP/C and their subsets afraid of what will be unearthed in the other districts?

Will this total national recount show more votes for APNU+AFC? It is now my fervent view that the Private Sector Commission should be stripped of its observer status from Elections 2020 and not be allowed anywhere near the ballot boxes. The Private

Is the PSC attempting...

From page 4 and poorest of us, are examining, analyzing, or evaluating our issues through the lens of blacks, East Indians or PNC and PPP or

both. If we are serious about progress, some things have got to change.

Yours faithfully, Citizen Audreyanna Thomas

Sector Commission has caused the turning of heads both nationally and internationally.

I know that a recount in Districts One, Two, Three, Five, Six and Nine will give more votes to APNU+AFC and less to the PPP/C. I strongly believe the same applies to the other districts so in my loud voice I say, LET THE TOTAL NATIONAL RECOUNT FROM DISTRICT ONE TO TEN BEGIN! The People’s Progressive Party must not be allowed to run and hide from the fact that they lost the 2020 elections.

Let the chips fall where they may.

Ganesh Mahipaul

everybody will be able to grow much of their food, there are many items which can be easily grown in containers if land/yard space is limited.

This crisis has revealed the vital importance of food security and it is imperative, in my opinion, that the Ministry of Agriculture demonstrates more leadership on this front at this time.

On a financial level - any amount of vegetables, fruit, and seasonings that a household is able to grow for themselves increases their self-sufficiency, reduces their

food spending and dependency on others for assistance, and leaves more money available for the purchase of other essential items, which cannot easily be produced at home.

Gardening has also been shown to have many physical and mental health benefits from providing exercise to persons (for free - no need to pay for a gym membership!), as well as helping to relieve stress, anxiety, and depression and increasing feelings of self-sufficiency and control. These are critical components of good health and important now more than ever before.

There is indeed a serious

crisis facing us right now, something which is disrupting life as we know it, and creating great uncertainty and stress.

However, the situation can also be viewed as an opportunity to build more sustainable and healthy systems.

Let us not simply react fearfully and in ways that maintain inequity and dependence, but seize this chance to reflect and think more creatively, and to make the changes necessary for improved individual and societal health and wellbeing in the long term.

Sincerely, Sherlina Nageer, MPH

Coronavirus and its origins - part 2 DEAR EDITOR, Recently, there has been quite a bit of back and forth between the world powers of China and the USA, as to who is responsible for the pandemic.

The USA says that their version of the virus in their lab is a different genome from what is in circulation. While China is of the opinion that their first patient originated as a result of the recent Military World Games in Wuhan (insinuating that the USA released the virus as an act of war). The games that some play.

The backdrop of the current situation in world economics (USA tariffs) and the recent navy incursion between the two superpowers does not bode well for a continued strong peaceful relationship that is genuine. Such a mishap could lead to economic hardships for these two giant trading partners, and provide an opportunity for other competitors to develop.

We must also remember

the history of China and India during the early years of Indian independence. Even an olive branch from a nation standing on the sacrifices of the Mahatma, did not prevent an escalation of conflict at their border with the Chinese.

The result was a healthy level of distrust between Prime Minister Nehru and his counterpart Chairman Mao. A similar reaction may be expected from President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping, whose aspirations may be to become Emperor.

If indeed this is the beginning of biological warfare, the death toll has been tremendous and the farreaching consequences extremely high. However, we must consider that there are other parties who would benefit from such a conflict, and it would be premature to assume that a clandestine operative would not take advantage of such a venue as the world military games, to start the world down this potentially disastrous path.

One must first look at all

of one’s enemies and their individual and joint capabilities. It’s quite an intricate web that has been spun, and the fires of many enemies and economic competitors continue to be inflamed.

The Military World Games do allow an enemy country to access world leaders via their top military commanders. I guess there is a play on the word Corona. Things are never as simple as they appear, and now the British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has become yet another exposed leader. Our thoughts and prayers go out to him and his loved ones.

All Guyanese must consider such matters as the nation collectively decides upon its future as a democracy. A wealthy nation is always a potential target for mischief and war in its many forms.

Best regards, Mr. Jamil Changlee Chairman The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana

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In my view, since the NCM, Dr. Hinds has stopped being an independent columnist DEAR EDITOR, Your columnist Dr. David Hinds in my view since the No Confidence Motion (NCM) of 2018, has stopped being an independent columnist and since then has been progressively writing a propaganda column for the PNC, and his offering of Sunday April 5 has proven just that.

He has not called out APNU - the party he supported - for rigging the 2020 Elections in front of the world. It seems for him that didn’t happen, as he said on March 29, ‘I am not joining the rhetoric that reduces the current impasse before us to “rigging”: I know better’.

He went on rambling in that piece about those who ‘racialize democracy’ and calling for an end to “winnertakes-all system”. His ‘racialize democracy’ inferring that because of superior numbers, all Indians voting for the PPP means that party would always win.

Where was Dr. Hinds in 2015 when Indians like myself, through the AFC, voted for the Coalition who won the elections and took power? In spite of their promises of

constitutional reform, the Coalition proceeded to rule as if the PNC won a landslide, and boy how they enjoyed the “winner-takes-all system”.

And there was zero constitutional reform. Where was the voice of Dr. Hinds then? Did he campaign for shared governance before the 2020 Elections? Did he campaign to abolish the winner-takes-all system before the 2020 Elections? Did he talk about those who racialize democracy before the 2020 elections? The answer to all these questions is a big fat NO!!!

Dr. Hinds is not stupid, he is an educated man and an intellectual compared to the likes of myself. He championed the cause of the Coalition before the elections, which was his right to do. And all the parties went in to the elections under the present laws, eh, Dr. Hinds?

If the Coalition had won, would there have been talk of shared governance and winner-takes-all? Would all that is flowing from his pen now be said?

As I said, Dr. Hinds is a very smart guy, but he has

chosen to be on the side where a prejudiced label would not be inappropriate, and that is extremely sad and disappointing, as today our country needs persons like himself to speak out against a clumsy and rancid attempt to rig our elections in front of the world. He has chosen to remain quiet and keep on emboldening the culprits who rigged the elections.

As for me Dr. Hinds, as an Indian Guyanese, I am proud of myself. I voted for your party in 2015 to put them in power, as I felt then it was the right thing to do, but then I saw for myself what they did with our constitution after the NCM in 2018.

Today, I will continue to speak out against the rigged 2020 Elections, and hope you will join me, as there is still time for you to do so. When the rightful government is sworn in, I will join you in the fight for a better and more inclusive government, but until then, let’s call a spade a spade.

Yours truly, M. Raffik President, Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce

Applauding President Granger for agreeing to a recount DEAR EDITOR, I applaud President Granger for agreeing to a recount of the ballots in order to settle the issue of victor in the elections. The country is at a standstill and the coronavirus pandemic needs urgent attention to spread its curb.

The number of cases in Guyana keeps climbing. The World Health Organization says between 15K to 20K could be infected. The election matter needs

Wednesday April 08, 2020

Kaieteur News

immediate resolution so that a legitimate government can proceed to address this grave threat to the population.

Brief comments of individuals close to President Granger were shared with me, that he advised them to inform GECOM that he is supportive of a recount of ballots. All the courts have ruled that a recount is allowed according to the law.

President Granger is in favour of a recount because he does not want anyone to

question the legitimacy of his Presidency, if indeed he had won, according to Mingo’s magical count. GECOM has the power to execute the recount. It should carry out its responsibility without further delay.

The behaviour of staff at GECOM, the hardliners in his party, Mingo, and Lowenfield have embarrassed the President; hence, the President’s approval of a recount.

The President must publicly support measures to ensure a fair tabulation of SOPs and/or the ballots, especially of Region 4.

Besides agreeing to Caricom observers, he must call for other international observers to monitor the recount. The OAS has agreed to send resources and observers to help with the process. The Commonwealth and Carter Center have also agreed to send observers. GECP, and the President should accept their offers of goodwill.

Thank you, Mr. President, for supporting a transparent recount!

Yours truly, Dr. Vishnu Bisram

The Lowenfield Report 2020 DEAR EDITOR, I am seized with curiosity about the contents of the Elections report submitted by Keith Lowenfield, the Chief Election Officer to Chairman Claudette Singh.

The Stabroek News editorial of 6th April noted that delivery has been made f o r s o m e t i m e n o w. A t present, only two persons know the contents of the 14th March report. I would ask that this report be tabled for examination by the Commission for the following reasons.

Firstly, this would make the report part of a public record and shed light on subjects of dark speculation. Whilst given the events of the past few weeks, there is little danger o f L o w e n f i e l d ’s r e p o r t being accepted by either side as definitive, it would still serve to give direction to the Commission on the modalities needed for a credible result obtained via an honest and transparent process. The recount

decision has already been taken by the GECOM Commission; the Report can point us to the best way forward.

Secondly, the contents of the Report can incriminate or vindicate Mr. Lowenfield; unlike others, I have not assumed the contents and cannot; therefore, say if Lowenfield i s i m p l i c a t e d i n M r.

Mingo’s fraud.

For all we know, the C.E.O has delivered a report that vitiates Mingo’s declaration and recommends a retabulation of SOPs. Alternatively, Lowenfield has implicated himself in fraud by asserting that Mingo’s numbers match those on his (Lowenfield’s) SOPs. It is my considered opinion that Keith Lowenfield would never take the latter option.

Thirdly, by tabling the Report of the 14th March 2020, we can save endless speculation that the Report could/would have been destroyed, altered or

switched to match the outcome of any retabulation of SOPs or recount of votes and of course, we would be safeguarding the reputation of Madame Justice (retd) Claudette Singh and C.E.O Keith Lowenfield at the same time.

Alternatively, should there be a failure to agree on tabling the report, placing it in escrow with a suitable entity of international repute for a post-election examination should be given serious consideration for many of the reasons above.

Time is of the essence, as Guyana needs to have a legitimate and recognised government in place urgently as we battle the COVID-19 pandemic.

Further delays will not only have economic implications, but it may also cost us precious lives.

The time for fiddling has passed.

Respectfully Robin Singh

I am lost in contemplation.

What do you believe?

DEAR EDITOR, Social media is full of local cures or medication that is purported to effectively assist in the treatment of COVID-19, but something else got my attention recently.

A post saying that COVID-19 was not lurking in any animal market in Wuhan waiting to infect humans, but rather the bodies of the physically challenged reacting to “radio spectrum radiation” unleashed by 5G high speed networks launched around the world, but firstly in Wuhan, China.

Hence the outbreak there!

It is a well-established fact that our bodies react differently to a given stimulus or environmental conditions.

This fact has often invoked the phrase - “what is one m a n ’s m e a t i s a n o t h e r man’s poison.”

5G is no one’s meat. A large group of scientists had since 2015 signed a petition to the WHO and the UN to stop it, because they were of the opinion that “radio spectrum radiation” from 5G was too dangerous to humans and the environment.

The weird part to accept in this 5G theory is that radiation striking the cosmic dust and oxygen, when breathed into the lungs, causes a reaction in some people, and as the body’s immune mechanism

fails to counter, cells are poisoned. These poisoned cells, mixed with proteins and amino acids, evolve into a virus, which infects the body and is excreted by coughing and sneezing, infecting other people.

Weird, eh!

The big question: How did COVID-19 survive since Noah’s Ark grounded without appearing once in history to leave fossil remains or some kind of footprint that could possibly be resurrected?

Same goes for all the contagions that appeared once.

Anyway, we know that there is dust, cosmic or otherwise, in the atmosphere - rain is not possible without that.

Proteins and amino acids are the building blocks of life, no question about the human body having that the necessities for evolution. The fact that viruses are so prone to mutate, add some credence to this theory.

The guy who made the

post referred to the Spanish flu of 1918 - citing the advent of radio waves in the early 1900’s as the culprit. Researchers, trying to analyse the 1918 pandemic, could not explain the almost same time occurrence of the disease in different parts of the world, despite people not commuting much in those days.

Some theorists, in examining this anomaly, opined that the virus had to come from outer space.

This theory supports the evolution of viruses in our bodies. After the spike in the 1918 pandemic, the sudden drop in new infections is still a mystery.

Now that is attributed to a sudden change in the cosmological conditions that bombarded the planet at that time.

T h e W H O does not operate on theories; the burden of proof rests on the theorists. I am lost in contemplation. What do you believe?

Rudolph Singh

Violation of privacy?

Dear Editor, The revelation that lab test results for persons suspected with the dreaded coronavirus go straight to the minister responsible for public health, instead of the attending medical practitioner is troubling. It begs the ethical question whether this practice constitutes an invasion/violation of privacy.

Shamshun Mohamed

Wednesday April 08, 2020

Miner with cough and laboured breathing taken to Mahdia Hospital A 60-year-old gold miner of Section ‘B’ Turkeyn, East Coast Demerara was yesterday expected to be flown to a city hospital from Mahdia, Region 8 after he began exhibiting symptoms believed to be consistent with the novel Coronavirus.

The miner operates his mining site at North Fork Backdams, Kanawaruk, Region 8.

Commander of the Division, Superintendent Ramesh Ashram, reported that on Monday evening at around 11:40 pm, the miner turned up at the Mahdia Public Hospital after feeling unwell.

He was examined by the doctor on duty who admitted him as a suspected case of COVID-19.

This publication understands that the doctor flagged the patient as a suspected

COVID-19 case because he was coughing consistently and also had difficulty breathing. The symptoms of COVID-19 may include cold like symptoms, including cough and fever, and in severe cases difficulty breathing or pneumonia.

According to reports, the Public Health Ministry had put provisions in place for the miner to be flown out to the city hospital.

It is unclear, however, whether other miners present at the campsite have since been quarantined.

So far, more than 100 persons have been tested for COVID-19 with 33 testing positive. The death toll has reached five and, according to Ministry officials, a total of eight persons, linked to the index patient, have since recovered. (Shikema Dey)

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Berbice businessman found dead after scuffle with associate Things turned deadly Tuesday when the owner of Mangru’s and Associates of Ankerville, Port Mourant and his associate argued over money.

Dead is Mahendra Mangru well known as “Papo”, a 44-year-old Land Surveyor and Valuation Officer.

According to police, the incident occurred at the address mentioned above sometime around 6:45 am Tuesday.

It was disclosed that Mangru operated his business from home but on the day in question, the suspect who is presently in police custody paid a visit to Mangru to uplift some money, which he said Mangru owed him. The money, he told police was for renovation works he had done on the bottom flat of the businessman’s home, but an argument developed instead.

He reportedly told the police that upon his arrival, he met Mangru at his gate and at that point asked for the money owed to him but

The home of Mahendra Mangru where the incident took place

Mangru refused to pay up because he told him he was not satisfied with how the work was done.

An argument erupted between the two and the suspect claimed that he threatened Mangru that he would report him to the police.

But this apparently aggravated the businessman, the suspect said, revealing

that Mangru armed himself with a cutlass that was in proximity, and swung the cutlass to chop him.

The man said that the cutlass barely caught the left side of his head. Both men reportedly grabbed each other, and a scuffle ensued. Mangru was reportedly relieved of the weapon when the suspect bit (Continued on page 23)

Dead: Mahendra Mangru called ‘Papo’

PAGE 8

Wednesday April 08, 2020

Kaieteur News

“We are stretched” - Region 10 Police Commander tells meeting

R

egional Police Commander for Region 10, Hugh Winter, has openly admitted that his ranks are stretched as it relates to their policing of the region following the implementation of a curfew and other stringent measures in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Commander Winter spoke of the challenges during a meeting held with several senior officials of the Regional Health and Emergency

Committee (RHEC), the Linden Chamber of Commerce and the Linden Business Network in the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) boardroom yesterday.

The meeting was jointly chaired by Region 10 Regional Chairman, Renis Morian, and Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell, both of whom sought to address several burning issues of the business community.

Commander Winter said that while his department ap-

plauds the efforts being implemented, the reality is that his ranks are stretched, “That’s the reason why at times there are reports that are not acted upon immediately,” said Winter even as he promised that efforts will be made to address every concern and issue.

“We are stretched, and it is important to note that while some have suggested that we tap into the ranks that are currently in training school, this isn’t possible as

President of the Linden Business Network addressing the meeting in preparation for Elections 2020, those ranks were distributed nationally. Unfortunately, we received none for Region 10 so we are still managing with our ranks with no addition,” he explained.

Several business owners at the meeting yesterday along with Regional Chairman, Renis Morian; Mayor Waneka Arrindell; Regional Police Commander, Hugh Winter and other officials.

The Police Commander urged the business community to unite and recognise that the measures being implemented are intended to reduce their income but rather to safeguard their “markets”.

He said that he would like to see businessmen and women encouraging and supporting their colleagues to follow measures that have been implemented by the region as part of the national curfew. It is also his view that “if each person plays their part it reduces the need for the police.”

“You as business owners within the community can play an important part as what I would like to see is that whenever you see a business operating outside of the set out guidelines to urge them to adhere to the guidelines set by the police. It must not be left to the police alone but rather it should be a community and team effort.

We can fight this together,” said Commander Winter. The Regional Commander warned nonetheless that the law enforcers will not be sitting by idly, while some persons seek to break the law.

According to Winter, reports have been received concerning two churches con-

tinuing to hold regular services thus defying the national curfew order.

As a matter of fact, it was received by the Regional Chairman that despite his attempts at speaking to the pastors of these churches, they have refused to close their doors.

“One of the churches is a large church and yet their members were there on Sunday despite the curfew order,” Winter told the meeting.

He has since instructed his ranks to ensure that there is full enforcement of the order irrespective of status.

According to the Police Commander, his ranks will continue to patrol the creeks and other areas that are known for recreational activities. And since the Force is in support of the Regional Health and Emergency Committee, Winter said that continued support will be forthcoming to ensure the COVID19 response measures are adhered to.

“Our mandate is to support the Region’s RHEC and by extension the national curfew so my ranks will be enforcing the guidelines to ensure that there is compliance by all,” Commander Winter assured.

Wednesday April 08, 2020

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Kaieteur News

The fly in the ointment in Region 4 was the small parties

T

he statement below appeared on a Facebook page.

The page is purported to be connected to either the APNU+AFC or its supporters.

The statement reads as follows “A simple comparison of the final results for 2015 and 2020 shows that those published by GECOM is far more within the normal, logical expectation based on historical, demographic and statistical trends. Those published by the PPP (specifically for Region 4) run contrary to the historical voting trend, demographic trends and statistical probability.”

It would not be surprising to learn that this statement contains the reasoning behind the APNU+AFC’s justification for its contentious claim of being the victors of the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

What those making this claim fail to appreciate is that simple comparisons can form the basis of false propaganda but simple comparisons are not associated with statisti-

cal probability.

Statistical probability is a scientific method. It is not opinion.

It can therefore be used to test claims, which are made about the elections.

Fortunately, a local social scientist, Dr. Thomas Singh undertook to test various hypothesis contained in that statement. He has published his findings online, having summarized them in a letter published in the Stabroek News of April 5, 2020.

Dr. Singh set out to test two principal hypotheses.

Firstly, whether there is any association between past elections’ results and those of the 2020 elections for Region 4.

Secondly, he sought to test whether the declarations made for Region 4 are independent of each other, that is, whether the three declarations – one by the PPPC and two by Mingo – are related to each other.

The findings of his research debunk the contention that the results of elections in 2011 and 2015 can relate to

the 2020 results. His findings also indicate that Mingo’s two declarations are independent of each other.

Since this column is written for a general audience, it is necessary to offer a basic explanation of how hypothesis testing works.

If, for example, you wish to show a relationship between past election results and the present election results, you first have to establish the hypothesis about it being tested.

In this case, it is that there is a relationship between the two sets of results.

However, in actually conducting the tests you do not set out to prove the hypothesis. Rather in order to prove the hypothesis, you have to reject the opposite of the hypothesis which is called the null hypothesis.

In this instance, if you can reject the null hypothesis, that is, if you can reject that there is no relationship, then you can accept that there is a relationship.

I have reviewed the statistical tests done by Dr. Tho-

DEM BOYS SEH Yuh can’t lose and win at the same time Dem boys seh is nah only the Prime Minister of Trinidad ‘koffukle’ by the decision of the Ah Peel Court.

Even dem boys nah understand it up to now.

Dem boys waiting on the final orders because dem kant understand how if GECOM solely responsible fuh the elections, how come dem can’t delegate dem powers.

The Trinidad Pee Em seh dat it was neva the intention of the CARICOM Community to usurp the funkshun of GECOM. And dat was also not how dem boys understand it too.

Dem boys know dat is much more drama ahead. Is so when you lose and wan win at

the same time.

Dem boys praying dat the world win the fight against the Coronavirus.

Dem boys hear a lovely speech last night from the President of China, Xi Jin Ping. He seh: “Shaici ting yang teng wena feng lemise Dong fong ‘hong choo la ‘Jiehang zhing cho feng lemise Dong fong ‘hong choo la’Jiehang zhing cho.

Shaici ting yang teng wena feng lemise Dong fong Yanghi Xanghi xauhn shei Huang chongle.”

Dem boys agree with he. Is fuh we own good.

Talk half and ask yuh self, why yuh didn’t learn foreign language in school?

mas Singh. I have only a slight problem with one aspect of one of his findings. His finding in relation to Mingo’s two declarations for Region 4 was interpreted by him to mean that the two declarations are “completely unrelated to each other.”

I suggest, respectfully, that the above may be too strong an interpretation given that the p-value is 0.02874. I would suggest that at the five percent significance level, you can reject the null hypothesis and thus say that the two Mingo declarations were not independent of each other.

However, at the one percent significance level, you cannot reject the null hypothesis.

Thus, instead of concluding that the declarations were “completely unrelated” to each other, I would have concluded that it cannot be ruled out that they were unrelated to each other.

The precision of the language is important in presenting findings of hypothesis testing.

In relation to whether past election results in District 4 are related to the 2020 results, the findings are negative. In other words, the distribution of past election results (Dr. Singh goes back to 2001) cannot be used to predict the outcome of the 2020 elections.

Having reviewed Dr. Singh’s findings on this score, I have made an interesting observation.

The reason why past elections results cannot be used to predict the 2020 results for District 4, is mainly due to the improved performance of the small parties which contested that Region.

The small parties collectively gained more than 4,000 votes in Region 4.

This was the fly in the ointment which mainly accounts for the finding that the results of past elections not

being able to be used to predict the outcome of the 2020 polls.

Dr. Thomas Singh must be commended for the statistical work that he has done. It brings a scientific approach – and I daresay an objective focus – to resolving differences.

More importantly, however, his findings provide sufficient grounds to cast doubts about the credibility of Mingo’s declarations and to justify a full recount of the votes in District 4.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

PAGE 10

Wednesday April 08, 2020

Kaieteur News

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Nagamootoo’s nagatelite versus Ramjattan’s rambouillet One of the deep mysteries that the 2020 election result has given rise to is a gargantuan contradiction between the words of Moses Nagamootoo and Khemraj Ramjattan, on Guyanese voters’ attitude to the electoral campaign of APNU+AFC for the March 2 general poll.

Let’s start with Nagamootoo. Writing in the Sunday Chronicle of March 8, on the election result, he noted it was a tiny victory for APNU+AFC which resulted in the same margin of seats it had - 33.

Now if

Nagamootoo’s margin is accepted, then one has to dig deep in the fountain of logic to synchronize Nagamootoo’s numbers with those of Ramjattan’s.

Ramjattan, speaking to Svetlana Marshall of the Chronicle two weeks before poling day, waxes lyrical about a landslide victory for APNU+AFC. He gave his reasons. He told the journalist that never in his political career had he seen such enthusiasm among the Guyanese people for the APNU+AFC campaign. He recalled that in

2015 when the AFC descended onto the PPP’s turfs, the party would attract a number like 25.

He asserted that in the 2020 campaign, those numbers in PPP strongholds have climbed to 300. Take out your calculator and you will see that Ramjattan was referring to more than a thousand percent increase from 2015 among villagers who came out to support the AFC in 2020.

Something is wrong when you juxtapose Nagamootoo’s nagatelite with Ramjattan’s rambouillet. What rational explanation can one find? If the APNU+AFC retained a oneseat majority, then nothing changed from 2015. Where did the money and energy go that APNU+AFC put into one of the more frenetic, hectic election campaigns this country has ever seen?

There were more than a dozen Cabinet outreaches that were in fact masquerades for party campaigns.

APNU+AFC was using state resources to campaign under the guise of Cabinet outreaches. Ministers and their sycophants went on a donation spree that targeted Amerindian villages. Eugene Correia Airport aircraft own-

ers made a killing during the 2020 battle. Planes were chartered by ministries under the guise of governmental visits, but they were in fact, party campaigns.

These Cabinet outreaches were combined with 16 party rallies, in which David Granger spoke at all.

Why then with this gargantuan display of political showmanship, did APNU+AFC romp home with the same seats it got in 2015? Now mind you – these are the figures from the Prime Minister that no one in the leadership of APNU and the AFC, and their propagandistic bandwagons, has contradicted. The PM was unambiguous in his Chronicle piece – APNU+AFC won by a very narrow margin, with the result that it stuck with a one-seat majority.

The question obviously centres on the imagination of Ramjattan. If it is not his imagination, and the AFC actually received over a 1000 percent increase in attendances at its 2020 campaign in PPP strongholds as against 2015, then how do you explain the stagnation of a one-seat majority; same as in 2015?

If it is not his imagination, then maybe Ramjattan was

right when he held that fateful press conference with Cathy Hughes at the PNC’s election campaign head office at Lamaha and Camp Streets days after Mingo’s horror show.

Ramjattan said that the Russians sent in a team to shape the election results.

Could that be true? It cannot be factual, because Nagamootoo is saying that APNU-AFC is the winner.

Now why would the Russians tamper with the election process so the PPP can win but APNU+AFC ended up winning? Are the Russian agents so incomprehensibly incompetent? I think we can safely dismiss the Russian factor and return to Ramjattan’s imagination. This is the only explanation.

When Ramjattan was in the PPP strongholds speaking at those public meetings with his AFC aficionados surrounding him, he imagined those 300 persons. They were nowhere near the AFC events. They were the ghosts dancing to “Senza Fine” that I wrote about in my Monday piece. Those 300 persons were the dead people who were the guests in the hotel that Jack Nicholson thought were real people in the move,

Frederick Kissoon “The Shining.”

So we have to bring Nagamootoo and Ramjattan back to the ground and to reality. The real picture is that APNU+AFC did not win by one seat, but lost by four seats. Nagamootoo actually got his figures from Clairmont Mingo. Mingo got his figures from the guests on the cruise ship that were dancing to “Senza Fine” and the guests in the hotel that Nicholson was looking at. They were all dead people. Nagamootoo then got dead figures from dead people.

APNU+AFC lost the 2020 poll, and that is the only living thing Nagamootoo and Ramjattan should be looking at.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

Wednesday April 08, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

Mackenzie Hospital transfers patient with respiratory concerns to GPHC

M

anifesting concerning respiratory symptoms, a patient was rushed to the Mackenzie Hospital for medical attention but was on Monday transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

This is according to information disseminated by the Linden Hospital Complex yesterday. The hospital in a statement confirmed that a man turned up at the Mackenzie Hospital demonstrating several respiratory symptoms.

It wasn’t long after that his condition worsened and several tests were conducted on him.

However, given the man’s condition, a decision was taken to have the patient transferred to the Georgetown hospital where a higher level of care could be provided.

This publication understands that staffers who attended to the patient have since been quarantined.

Concerns about the patient comes even as Guyana battles to contain the spread of COVID-19, the novel coronavirus that has been wreaking havoc in many countries across the world.

Acting Medical Superintendent of the Hospital, Dr. Joseph London, who met with several of the hospital staffers, said that “the hospital has taken a more aggressive role in addressing several issues and concerns that staff and members of the public have from time to time.”

He said too that management of the hospital is cognizant that “persons are tense and or fearful” and as such efforts are being made to continually reassure them that their wellbeing is paramount.

Moreover, deliberate efforts are being made to ensure that standing operating procedures are followed, the doctor noted.

“I personally met with several staff members yesterday and assured them of the hospital’s position and ability to address any issue that we are confronted with.

We are following all standing operating procedures and the reality is that the man was

Wednesday April 08, 2020

Kaieteur News

Acting Medical Superintendent of the Hospital, Dr. Joseph London transferred because he needed a much higher level of care and Georgetown will be handling that matter,” Dr. London said.

Refusing to classify the patient’s condition as a suspected case of COVID-19, Dr. London urged that members of the public “stay away from rumours”, since, according to him, “they have the potential of creating undue panic”.

“I am urging persons including healthcare professionals to stay away from disseminating and or sharing rumours as it will not work in the best interest of all.

We are in a major medical period where people will panic at anything and we must remain responsible in how we share and or disseminate information,” Dr. London said.

COVID-19 symptoms may include cough, fever, tiredness and patients can develop shortness of breath or pneumonia in severe cases. Up to yesterday, Guyana had recorded 31 cases of the disease with five deaths.

As COVID-19 emergency measures are enforced…

Bar Council urges public to stay home

By Shikema Dey It was Prime Minister and Head of the National COVID19 Task Force, Moses Nagamootoo, who recently urged the police force to come up with “creative” ways to enforce the COVID-19 curfew since many Guyanese are not adhering to the order.

The order in place outlines a number of measures including persons being restricted to their homes with only essential workers allowed out.

The restrictions have halted all crowds at weddings, funerals and religious places of worship, creeks and pools.

But even with the curfew system activated, it is clear that some people are not heeding the measures invoked by virtue of a presidential order.

However, the law enforcement officers were warned against this by the Bar Council of the Bar Association of Guyana which has urged them to “respect human rights.”

The Prime Minister while making his “creative ways” comment, referenced several online videos showing police in India whipping citizens who flouted the curfew there.

In fact, Prime Minister Nagamootoo stated his personal view, that “if it’s neces-

sary to go into the bars, if they got to pull them out of the bars by their ears, I will say yes, get them out, send them home…and that’s the way to go.” But the Bar Association in a statement sought to remind the Guyana’s law enforcers that as organs of the state, they are subject to the Rule of Law and the provisions of the Constitution of Guyana.

“We take this opportunity to highlight the right of every citizen under Article 141 of the Constitution not to be subjected to inhuman and or degrading treatment.”

The Bar Council stressed that “the components of the right to secure protection of the law under Article 144 of the Constitution, require that a punishment be prescribed by a Court of law, after following all the hallmarks of due process.”

The Bar Council clarified

too, that “It is not the role of the Police to determine and or assign punishment for an alleged breach or enforcement.”

Moreover, the Council has classified as reckless and ill-advised, the suggestions made by the Prime Minister “to pull persons by their ears”, taken together with him alluding to examples he saw on social media of police officers in other countries beating persons and inflicting other public policy punishment. “Guyanese are human beings, not animals, and are thereby entitled to such fundamental rights and freedoms as enshrined in the Constitution,” the Council maintained.

Added to that, the Council reminded the Disciplined Services must, at all times, “operate within the confines of law and cannot employ extra-judicial means in the enforcement of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures.”

The Bar Council also called on Guyanese to be responsible in their conduct and urged them to take heed of the curfew order in place.

“As we exercise our individual fundamental rights, this exercise is not to be in breach of our respective duties of care,” the Council added.

Wednesday April 08, 2020

PAGE 13

Kaieteur News

US Secretary of State Health Ministry looking at calls for transparent, getting private hospitals credible elections recount involved in COVID-19 fight

U

nited States Secre tary of State, Mike Pompeo, has come out with another statement, this time commending the High Court’s decision that clears the way for the National Recount of ballots from the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

The high-level US official made this statement yesterday at a press briefing held in the US State Department, Washington DC. Pompeo told media operatives that the US is looking forward to working with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and the International Observer Community on the recount process.

This, he stated, is to ensure that the process is free, fair, transparent and credible.

Pompeo said, “...we look forward to working with their [Guyana’s] Elections Commission and the international observer missions’ community to ensure that process is free and fair, transparent and credible.”

The US has been issuing a number of statements since

P

US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo. the March 2 elections raising questions about the credibility of the elections.

The national recount of the ballots from the last month elections has been confirmed and will be done in chronological order; however, no official start date has been

issued.

As the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) continues to work out the modalities of the recount process, it was agreed that the high-level CARICOM team will return to validate the expected recount.

(Shikema Dey)

rivate Hospitals may soon be able to begin testing for COVID-19.

This is according to Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence.

The Minister explained that her Ministry is currently working on public-private partnerships with private hospitals and has already initiated the process.

The Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr. Shamedo Persaud, was given the task of contacting the private hospitals to discuss testing and their readiness to deal with COVID-19.

“We recognise and we know that there are many Guyanese who usually seek care at private health facilities.

We want to ensure that we can work with these private entities to ensure that they can provide these services,” Minister Lawrence said.

Further, she explained that it is not the view of the Ministry of Public Health that only Georgetown Public Hos-

pital Corporation (GPHC) should be testing for the novel coronavirus. As such

this type of test.

If necessary, the Ministry of Public Health will share

the Ministry is working with initial guidelines set by PAHO/WHO. Addit i o n a l l y, the Health Minister reve a l e d that only polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing is proven effective at testing COVID1 9 a nd that any facility that wishes to begin testing must be able to conduct

test kits with private hospitals and help them set up dedicated coronavirus Intensive Care Units.

“This is everybody’s fight. We do not embrace the RAPID tests for the testing of COVID-19.”

Guyana began testing for COVID-19 on February 26 but recorded its first case on March 11. [DPI]

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Rowley opposes US warships in region NEWSDAY - The Prime Minister has rejected any idea of US military intervention in Venezuela in light of US President Donald Trump’s vow to send a fleet of warships to the region to curb alleged illicit drug shipments by the Venezuelan Government.

The Southern Command of the US Navy is set to double its force in the Caribbean, off the coast of Venezuela.

The US Government has laid narco-terrorism charges against Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro and several colleagues, and putting a US$15 million bounty on his head. President Trump alleged Maduro was in cahoots with Colombia’s FARC rebel group to flood the US with cocaine during the uncertainty of the covid19 pandemic.

Maduro rejected this claim, saying Trump was trying to distract his population as the virus ravages the US. Dr Rowley, who recently met Venezuelan vice president Delcy Rodrigues here despite TT’s border closure, told Monday’s briefing at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s that nothing has changed in TT’s stance on Venezuela.

“Our position remains the same. TT remains a part of Caricom and we resolutely defend that position, saying we view the Caribbean as a zone of peace. That has not changed, and we do not ex-

Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley

President Donald Trump

pect it to change.”

He then seemed to criticise Trump.

“So if there are others who believe it should be different, we don’t have any control over that. Insofar as we have any involvement, we continue to reside under the umbrella of the UN, where these matters are not ones of size and strength, but one of compliance with the rulesbased principle, where those rules are determined for all – large, small, big, little, weak, strong – and if the rules are observed, we should have nothing to fear.”

Rowley expressed his concern that in today’s world it is not uncommon for such rules to be disregarded in the Venezuelan case and others.

“We will continue to stand by the request, the demand, urgings, for rulesbased action only.

“We are talking here

about non-intervention and absence of military solutions to political problems in this way.

“So these tensions have come to our borders. We do not have the wherewithal to prevent that, so we simply have to rely on the principles of international justice and international observance of the rules we have agreed to prior to these difficulties arising.”

This all came amid reports of gasoline shortages in Venezuela and Venezuelan migrants returning home from nearby Colombia, where they lost their jobs in the covid19 lockdown.

The US has offered to ease sanctions levelled over alleged election-rigging by the Maduro regime, on condition that Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido both step down in favour of an interim government, pending fresh elections.

Wednesday April 08, 2020

PAGE 23

Kaieteur News

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ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada - CMC – Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell has sought to assure the country that there is no shortage of food and called on Grenadians to stop behaving as “if every shopping day is the last day for food to be available.”

“From the standpoint of our suppliers, our grocery store owners and the Ministry of Agriculture that we are not facing an imminent shortage of food,” he said during a

news conference on Monday as he revealed details concerning the ongoing work of the COVID-19 response committee.“I get the impression that some of us believe that this is the last day to get some items, so I really urge you, not to behave as if this is the last day that food will be available from all reports there is enough supply out there if we all are disciplined enough to get it when we need it.”

Tobago records fourth positive case of COVID-19

Trinidad Guardian - A news release issued by the DiBottom flat fully furnish 25 vision of Health, Wellness Oronoque fully furnished 25 and Family Development yesOronoque St, fully furnished, terday said the individual had grill/mesh windows/doors. a travel history and according to established protocols, Call: 226-7012 the person was quarantined and monitored twice daily from the time they entered the country.Guardian Media understands that the individual arrived in the country shortly before the borders closed on March 22.The individual is currently isolated and is beWANTED ing closely monitored.

Meanwhile, 63 people One Spindle Maker. Kindly have completed their mandacontact Jettoo’s Lumberyard & Sawmill. Tel# 226-2756/225- tory quarantine at facilities in Tobago.The Division said, 5341 they completed their 14-day 1 Male Bahir to work in the quarantine and have not Interior, must know to bake as shown any symptoms of well between the ages 30-45. COVID-19 “It is important to note Contact#668-4973

that the persons who completed quarantine at the Division’s quarantine facilities have not exhibited any flu-like symptoms. They have been in quarantine for the total incubation period of COVID-19 (14 days) and they have been monitored by health officials twice daily. As guided by the World Health Organisation’s policy, those persons are now deemed safe to return to society, without the risk of infecting persons.”

As at yesterday at 10:00 am, 79 samples were submitted to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) laboratory for testing, four of them were positive, while the island recorded one death.

The Division said, there are two remaining persons at the quarantine facilities on the island.

In referring to regulations which mandates shop owners to make provision to ensure the six feet social or physical distancing is applied on designated shopping days, Mitchell who is also the Minister for National Security express regret that such action must be legally enforced.

“It is no comfort to me and members of your Government to watch you in long lines at supermarkets, it is painful for me and for those of us in Government,” he said while pointing that based on current health protocols there is no perfect solution to the COVID-19 pandemic that has infected more than a million worldwide and cause the death of thousands.“We will continue to explore best practice with one goal, to keep the people of this nation safe,” he

Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell said while stating that the new regulations will provide for a new phase of the 24 mandatory curfew from April 6 to April 20.Like the two previous regulations, citizens who are not in the essential workers category must confine themselves to the homes. New measures include the immediate self-quarantine or isolation of all persons arriving the island from March 9 and the charging of fixed penalty for those who violate the curfew regulation.

Magnitude 5.3 earthquake rocks sections of T&T PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - CMC – An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.3 struck sections of the twin island republic late Monday.According to the Seismic Research Centre at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine campus, the quake struck 55 kilometers northwest of Scarborough, Tobago at 11:26 pm (local time).

The quake had a depth of 10 kilometers and was reportedly felt in several areas including Scarborough, Diego Martin and Arima.There were no reports of damage or injuries.

Berbice businessman...

From page 7 his right hand near his thumb.

The suspect said, too, that he then shoved Mangru to the ground and left.

The suspect subsequently visited the Port Mourant Hospital to seek medical attention for his injuries and a report was made at the Whim Police Station.

Mangru was reportedly picked up in an unconscious state by police ranks and taken to the Port Mourant Hospital as well but he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The suspect was then taken into custody while the body of the deceased was taken to Ramoo’s Funeral Home. According to police, the victim sustained a wound (suspected bite mark) to his right hand in the region of his thumb, abrasions behind the right foot, a swollen left side jaw and other minor abrasions to his feet. The suspect sustained a cut to the left side of his head.

Meanwhile, the wife of the dead man, Monica Prasad, who resides overseas with two children she shares with Mangru, told reporters a different story from what the suspect reportedly told the police. According to her, she had returned to Guyana for the March 2 elections and Phagwah and during that period, she was aware that her husband had reportedly

given a large sum of cash to the suspect, who he considered his friend, to obtain a business licence for him. She explained that after time had elapsed, they were not receiving any update about the business licence, her husband decided to request from the suspect the money he had handed over. The money, she said, was never returned.

The woman said that she returned overseas and on Monday, she spoke to her husband who said that the suspect had left his young son with him and had “gone out”. The suspect, the woman is sure, failed to return the money to her husband.

Prasad said, “my husband calls me whenever he leaves his son there and he complains that he na bring the money but only dropping he son there and gone out”.

The woman said that indeed they had completed some renovations on the business place but that was done by another “workman” who her husband hired. She added too that her husband is good at heart and is always willing to help persons when they are in a difficult spot, hence the suspect would normally ask to borrow cash.

Reports suggest that the argument developed over the money Mangru reportedly wanted back from the suspect. Police are investigating.

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Warner unfazed by new corruption charges Port of Spain, Trinidad, CMC – Former FIFA vicepresident Jack Warner has dismissed as “stupidness”, new charges surrounding his alleged acceptance of US$5 million in bribes in relation to World Cup voting and the sale of media and broadcast rights.

A 53-count indictment unsealed Monday in the US District Court in Brooklyn alleges that while Caribbean Football Union (CFU) president and acting as a special advisor to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association, Warner solicited bribes for the award and execution of contracts for the rights to the CFU World Cup qualifier matches, relating to the 2006 showpiece in Germany.

It is also alleged that he received kickbacks from helping South Africa land the continent’s first ever World Cup in 2010, and for helping Russia win the bid to host the 2018 showpiece. But responding to questions from the Trinidad Newsday newspaper on Monday evening, the 77- year-old Warner was dismissive of the legal development.

“You really want me to answer that stupidness? I have no comment to make on that. That is still news?” he said. Asked if he wished to refute or deny the allegations, the former head of continental governing b o d y, CONCACAF, replied: “If allyuh want to be

Jack Warner messengers for the US, go ahead. I have no problem with that.”

Wa r n e r further indicated that he was “not interested in that”, when

Wednesday April 08, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Today you could look in the mirror and panic about your appearance. You might be feeling a little under the weather and look a little tired.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Your artistic abilities could seem a bit blocked today, Taurus. You could be anxious to complete a half-finished project, but at this point you may have no idea where to go with it.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today you could have a strong desire to get out and socialize, Gemini. You could well spend a lot of time on the phone trying to reach some friends, but not have much luck with it.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Today you could receive an invitation to a social event that you'll really want to attend, Cancer. People could be there who might turn out to be important contacts.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) An opportunity to travel to a place you've always wanted to visit, perhaps for business reasons, could come your way today, Leo. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Daydreams full of adventure, perhaps involving travel, could take up a lot of your time today, Virgo.

You're probably bored with your situation and longing to do something to break your routine.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Your desire to see a romantic partner could be very strong today. However, if you ask, you might be turned down. Don't jump to the conclusion that your friend doesn't want to see you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Overindulgence in food and drink over the past few days could be causing you to feel a little out of sorts today. You might even wonder if the fun was worth it!

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) A strong desire to meet with a romantic partner could come over you today. However, you might not be able to reach your friend.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) A moody family member could have you confused, Capricorn, and you might not be able to discern the best way to find out what's bothering him or her.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You might want to spend most of today outside, perhaps taking a walk through a park. You could have some serious thinking to do and feel the best recourse is to be by yourself for a while.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Money problems could be on your mind, Pisces, perhaps more so than necessary. You might have a tendency to blow them out of proportion and think they're worse than they are.

asked if he would be prepared to fight the legal battle. The latest charges come five years after Warner was named in a similar US Department of Justice indictment.

In 2015 he was charged with wire fraud, racketeering and money laundering, but has been engaging the courts here to avoid extradition to face those charges. That same year, Warner was slapped with a lifelong ban by FIFA for “many and various acts of misconduct”.

The new wire fraud, money laundering and racketeering charges stem from crimes that prosecutors allege took place between 1998 and 2011. Former Brazil federation president, Ricardo Teixeira, and Guatemala football chief, Rafael Salguero, are among several former football officials and media executives that have also been implicated.

The indictment states that Warner and the others conspired to use their positions “to engage in schemes involving the solicitation, offer, acceptance, payment and receipt of undisclosed and illegal payments, bribes and kickbacks”.

UFC: Dana White says...

From page 31 Gaethje will replace him.

White said the UFC will be “pumping out fights every week” but fighters will be regularly tested for coronavirus and there will be no fans at the events.

“We’re going to make sure that athletes, referees, my production people, that everybody there is going to be healthy before, during and after the fights,” he said.

White also reportedly revealed the rest of the card for UFC 249, which includes bouts between Rose Namajunas against Jessica Andrade and Francis Ngannou versus Jairzinho Rozenstruik.

Warner facing corruption...

From page 30 indictment added.

Prosecutors also alleged that Warner, while CFU president and acting as a special advisor to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association, solicited bribes for the “award and execution of the contracts for the rights to the CFU World Cup qualifier matches”, relating to the 2006 showpiece in Germany.

Further, the indictment contends that Warner received kickbacks from helping South Africa land the continent’s first ever World Cup in 2010, and for helping Russia win the bid to host the 2018 showpiece.

Warner is among several former football officials and media executives charged by the US Department of Justice, sparking yet another scandal in the global football community. Former Brazil federation president, Ricardo Teixeira, and Guatemala football chief, Rafael Salguero, are also among those implicated.

“Over a period of more than 20 years, the

defendants and their coconspirators corrupted the enterprise through, among other things, the solicitation, payment and receipt of bribes and kickbacks in connection with the sale of media and marketing rights to various soccer tournaments and events,” prosecutors alleged.

Warner, a former Cabinet minister in Trinidad and Tobago, resigned from FIFA, CONCACAF and CFU at the height of the infamous cash-for-votes scandal in 2011, which alleged that he and former FIFA presidential candidate Mohammed bin Hammam offered bribes to CFU countries in exchange for votes at the upcoming FIFA election. He was named in a similar US Department of Justice indictment in 2015, also charged with wire fraud, racketeering and money laundering, but has so far successfully avoided extradition to face those charges.

Also in 2015, Warner was slapped with a lifelong ban

by FIFA for “many and various acts of misconduct”.

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World Athletics makes commitment to a cleaner, greener, more equitable world World Athletics has yesterday launched its Sustainability Strategy, which has a central goal of making the organisation carbon neutral by 2030. The strategy addresses global issues that pose a threat to the quality of our lives, using the power of sport and athletics to create a better world for communities.

The organisation will embrace sustainability principles and practices within its operations, its Member Federations and the organisation of future World Athletics Series events.

The ten-year strategy is designed to deliver tangible benefits across environmental, social and economic sustainability.

Among its commitments, World Athletics will reduce its carbon output by ten percent each year, switch to 100 percent renewable energy at its headquarters this year, introduce a sustainable procurement code and travel policy and develop best practice guides for its 214 Member Federations and its event organisers.

The strategy is divided into six pillars, each of which contain actions and targets for the organisation to pursue.Some of the key components are: Leadership in sustainability: Produce best practice guides for Member Federations and World Athletics Series event

organisers, Embed sustainability principles in permit and licensing programmes, Align and embed sustainability goals into partnership agreements, Identify and engage our partners around the sustainability programme.

Sustainable production and consumption: At headquarters, switch to 100 percent renewable energy, Implement comprehensive waste management system targeting reduction and reuse, Embed responsible procurement for all World Athletics activities and sanctioned events.

Climate change and carbon - Reduce carbon footprint by ten percent each year to reach goal of carbon neutrality by 2030, Implement a sustainable travel policy reducing travel and building local capacity, All sanctioned events to commit to carbon neutrality targets.

Local environment and air quality - Working with partners, establish low emission zones around athletics arenas, Maximise local economic impact around events by supporting local businesses, Develop a toolkit for improving air quality, Air quality targets to be understood, set and monitored to protect runners and athletes, Air quality emissions to be included in equipment and venue

World Athletics President Sebastian Coe, Sustainable Development Advisory Group Chair Sylvia Barlag and HSH Prince Albert II are shown the air quality monitor by Kunak Technologies CEO Javier Fernandez Huerta (Philippe Fitte) © Copyright standards.

Global equality - All geographic areas to have recognised opportunity pathways for both genders in all professions in athletics across athletes, coaches, technical officials, administrators, Build gender capacity with annual female leadership seminars conducted in all Areas.

Diversity, accessibility and wellbeing - Protect athlete welfare with standardised basic health checks for all athletes before they compete

in international events, Ensure headquarters and other facilities are fully accessible, Ensure diverse workforce and fair treatment of staff and those working at and on our events, and for our suppliers and partners.

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said it was important for the organisation to make a commitment to a better future for coming generations.

“In the modern world, it has become apparent that our athletes and fans expect more

from us than good governance of our sport. They also expect us to be a good global citizen, to take a leadership role in issues that affect the wider world and their communities.

Sustainability is one of the great global challenges. We want to do our part to make this a better world and contribute to a cleaner, greener, more equitable future for everyone.

“We started on this path a couple of years ago when we made a commitment to

assist the global campaign for improved air quality, and began installing air quality monitors in stadiums around the world, but it’s time for us to do more and I’m delighted to launch this roadmap for our organisation and our sport over the next decade.

We have already ticked one item off the list, by switching to 100 percent renewable energy at our headquarters this year, and our ambition is to be a leader in organising sustainable events as we go forward.”

Van Niekerk of South Africa.

The World Athletics Continental Tour series was set to begin on May 10 in Tokyo, Japan and would also have included the Fanny

Blankers Koen Games in Hengelo, Netherlands; the Nurmi Games in Turku, Finland; and the Skolimowska Memorial in Silesia, Poland.

Racers Grand Prix postponed Kingston, Jamaica, CMC – The spread of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) has resulted in the postponement of premier track and field meet, Racers Grand Prix, but officials have expressed hope it can be held in August.

The fifth staging of the meet, which was awarded gold status during the newly formed 2020 World Athletics Continental Tour, was set to be held at the National Stadium here on June 13.

However, chairman of the organising committee Glen Mills informed World Athletics in an April 2 letter that the meet would be deferred because of the ferocity of the virus, local and global restrictions on travelling and gatherings, quarantine procedures, and the inconclusive timeline of the impact of the virus.

“It is now clear that our only choice is to postpone the date of this year’s meeting of the Racers Grand Prix – Kingston Continental Tour Gold meeting,” said Mills, who is also president of Racers Track Club.

Chairman of the Racers Grand Prix committee Glen Mills

“We are now hoping to be able to reschedule the meeting for a date in the latter half of August. Of course, this is subject to the agreement of World Athletics, in keeping with your overall schedule. It is also subject to the availability of the stadium and the hotel on this new date.”

The meet was one of 10 in the new series designed to accommodate athletes from several disciplines cut from the Diamond League for 2020.

These included the triple jump, discus, 3,000-metre steeplechase and 200 metre.

For these core disciplines, ranking points would have been allotted at the same level as the Diamond League.

“We remain grateful that the world body recognised the type of meet that we were putting on, which has been of the highest quality,” said Mills. “And though the postponement of the event is unfortunate, once we receive the all-clear, we will ensure the meet delivers on every level.”

“We encourage athletes to follow the World Health Organization guidelines and those of their local leadership to reduce the risk of catching the coronavirus. And we also encourage them to focus on their well-being and to find innovative methods to stay fit during this period,” he added.

Among the athletes who had confirmed their

participation at the Racers Grand Prix were 200m World champion Noah Lyles of the United States and world record 400m holder and Olympic champion Wayde

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Olympic qualification period suspended until 1 December 2020 World Athletics announced yesterday the qualification period for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games is suspended effective from 6 April 2020 until 30 November 2020 included, following consultation with its Athletes’ Commission, Area Presidents and Council.

During this period, results achieved at any competition will not be considered for Tokyo 2020 entry standards or world rankings, the publication of which will also be suspended.

Results will continue to be recorded for statistical purposes, including for world records, subject to the applicable conditions. But they will not be used to establish an athlete’s qualification status.

Subject to the global situation returning to normal, the qualification period will resume on 1 December 2020 and continue to the new qualification deadline in 2021 set by the International Olympic Committee (see qualification period table at the end). The total qualification period, which started in 2019, will be four months longer than it was originally.

Commenting on the decision, World Athletics President Sebastian Coe said: “I am grateful for the detailed work and feedback from our Athletes’ Commission and Council who believe suspending Olympic

Sebastian Coe qualification during this period gives more certainty for athlete planning and preparation and is the best way to address fairness in what is expected to be the uneven delivery of competition opportunities across the globe for athletes given the challenges of international travel and government border restrictions.”

Athletes who have already met the entry standard since the start of the qualification period in 2019 remain qualified and will be eligible for selection by their respective Member Federations and National Olympic Committees, together with the other

athletes who will qualify within the extended qualification period. The end of the Olympic qualification periods are 31 May 2021 (for 50km race walk and marathon) and 29 June 2021 for all other events.

Overall duration of the qualification period Qualification starting dates for entry standards and world rankings remain unchanged with many athletes already qualified by meeting the entry standards during 2019.

With the qualification period from 1 December 2020 to 31 May 2021 (or 29 June 2021 depending on the event) the eligible qualification period (taking into account

the eight-month suspension period) is longer than the original period by an additional four months.

Temporary furlough decision - World Athletics also announced its decision to furlough temporarily 50% of its HQ staff effective today in order to secure jobs for the long term. All staff on furlough will continue to receive their full salary.

The decision, which was approved by the Executive Board yesterday, has been made due to the temporary postponement of World Athletics Series events and many development activities around the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the strict self-isolation regulations in Monaco and France, where the majority of World Athletics’ HQ staff are based.

World Athletics will access Monaco Government’s generous scheme to support businesses based in the Principality.

This scheme allows organisations to temporarily reduce the working hours of staff who are unable, through no fault of their own, to carry out their roles to full effect.

World Athletics will temporarily suspend parts of the organisation, primarily those areas which are heavily event driven, and put individuals on temporary leave until the offices are officially able to reopen.

The Monaco Government will contribute 70% of the gross salaries of staff on furlough and World Athletics will fund the remainder.

Commenting on this decision, World Athletics President Sebastian Coe said: “We need to reflect current realities and the uncertainty of the global situation we find ourselves in, particularly the business environment where due to COVID-19 crises, normal business practices are breaking down around the world. For many of our Member Federations and a lot of our athletes this is a ‘very real, very now’ issue. The income we receive is not ‘our’ money. We are custodians of granted funds, which may well be disrupted this year, to spend on the development and delivery of athletics across the globe so we are always diligent and responsible with our finances.

“This decision, made possible by the Monaco Government, means we will focus only on business critical activities for the short term which will help us manage our cashflow effectively and protect jobs in the long term.

“All World Athletics HQ staff will remain on their full salaries during this period with the organisation topping up the Monaco Government’s contribution.

We have taken care to ensure the support and

services we provide to our Member Federations, Areas, partners, stakeholders, athletes and the wider athletics community remain in place with a reduced team.

“These are tough times for everyone and I want to thank my whole team for positively embracin g working from home some four weeks ago and those now entering furlough for what I hope is a short period of time to help us manage our business and our resources responsibly.”

See summary below: Event: Marathon, 50km race walk Entry standards period: 1 January 2019 – 5 April 20201 December 2020 – 31 May 202121 months World rankings period: 1 December 2018 – 5 April 20201 December 2020 – 31 May 202122 months Event:10,000m, 20km race walk, combined events Entry standards period: 1 January 2019 – 5 April 20201 December 2020 – 29 June 202122 months World rankings period: 1 January 2019 – 5 April 20201 December 2020 – 29 June 202122 months Event: All other events Entry standards period: 1 May 2019 – 5 April 20201 December 2020 – 29 June 202118 months World rankings period: 30 June 2019 – 5 April 20201 December 2020 – 29 June 202116 months

Qatar denies U.S allegations of World Cup bribes Reuters The organisers of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar have strongly denied allegations from the U.S. Department of Justice that bribes were paid to secure votes for the hosting rights to the tournament.

Suspicion and rumours have long surrounded both the 2010 vote by FIFA’s executive to hand the 2018 World Cup to Russia and the 2022 tournament to Qatar. Yet on Monday, for the first time, prosecutors set direct, formal allegations regarding both tournaments down in an indictment.

According to the p r o s e c u t o r s , representatives working for Russia and Qatar bribed FIFA executive committee officials to swing votes in the crucial hosting decisions of world football’s governing body.

Qatar’s Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC), rejected the charges.

“They are part of a

long-standing case, the subject of which is not the 2018/2022 FIFA World Cup bidding process. “Despite years of false claims, evidence has never been produced to demonstrate that Qatar won the rights to host the FIFA World Cup 2022 unethically or by means that contravened FIFA’s strict bidding rules.

“The SC maintains that it strictly adhered to all rules and regulations for the 2018/ 2022 FIFA World Cup bidding process and any claim to the contrary is baseless and will be fiercely contested.”

FIFA said in a statement it supported all investigations into “alleged acts of criminal wrongdoing” and noted it had been accorded victim status in the U.S. criminal proceedings. “ T h e F I FA E t h i c s Committee has already imposed sanctions, including life bans, on football officials mentioned in this process,” said a FIFA spokesman.

FILE PHOTO: Workers walk towards the construction site of the Lusail stadium which will be build for the upcoming 2022 Fifa soccer World Cup during a stadium tour in Doha, Qatar, December 20, 2019. REUTERS/Kai Pfaffenbach/File Photo

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FIFA guidelines to address legal consequences of COVID-19 Following the unprecedented disruption caused by COVID-19 at all levels of football, FIFA has worked on a series of recommendations and guidelines to address some of the key practical issues arising from the pandemic, especially with regard to player contracts and the transfer system generally.

This has been done in consultation with different stakeholders through a task force chaired by the FIFA Vice-President and chairman of the FIFA Football Stakeholders Committee, Vittorio Montagliani, and including representatives of clubs, players, leagues, national associations and confederations.

A set of principles has been unanimously agreed by the task force and was endorsed by the Bureau of the FIFA Council today (yesterday).

“The COVID-19 pandemic has clearly changed all the factual circumstances around football for this season. So, FIFA, together with the stakeholders, has come up with some practical ideas and proposals to tackle these new circumstances.

Whilst this will not solve each and every problem, it should serve to bring a measure of stability and clarity to football for the foreseeable future. We hope that this collaborative effort, under the leadership of FIFA, can provide a positive example of how football can come together and show unity, solidarity and a spirit of compromise in order to face the challenging times ahead.

FIFA Vice-President Vittorio Montagliani (left) and FIFA President, Gianni Infantino.

But before these times come, one thing must be clear to everyone, especially now: health comes first, well before football,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Below is a summary of the main guidelines approved, which FIFA both hopes and expects will be followed around the world.

Expiry and commencement of player contracts: Expiring player contracts usually end when the season ends, with a termination date that coincides with the end of the season. With the current suspension of play in most countries, it is now obvious that the current season will not end when people thought it would. Therefore, it is proposed that contracts be extended until such time that the season does actually end.

This should be in line with the original intention of the

parties when the contract was signed and should also preserve sporting integrity and stability.

A similar principle applies to contracts due to begin when the new season starts, meaning the entry into force of such contracts is delayed until the next season actually does start.

Football employment agreements that can no longer be performed: The COVID-19 pandemic has clearly had a major impact on the revenues of clubs, not least since matches cannot be played. Football, like other sectors of the economy, has to find fair and equitable solutions tailored to these circumstances, hopefully with a view to protecting jobs and achieving a fair and reasonable balance of interests between players and clubs.

Accordingly, FIFA

GMR&SC pays tribute to Deryck ‘Mad Dog’ Jaisingh On Monday evening last, the Ministry of Public Health (MoH) confirmed the passing of Deryck ‘Mad Dog’ Jaisingh as the latest fatality of the Covid-19 disease. Jaisingh was very well known for his exploits on the Drag Race track where he piloted the S&D Performance Toyota Supra car with which he won the

last drag race meet held in Guyana last year.

The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) like everyone that knew him, was always sorrowful at the news of his passing and immediately released a message of condolence to his family and friends, on the evening of his passing.

The full message reads: “The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) is deeply saddened at the news of the passing of its member Deryck Jaisingh.

The club and the entire motor racing fraternity joins his family and friends in the mourning of h i s passing which has rocked the sport.

He was the reigning unlimited class drag racing champion and even the fans will be grieving at his passing. Deryck was described by those who knew him as a good and kind hearted individual. The GMR&SC wishes that his family will get the strength to get through this tough situation.”

strongly encourages clubs and players to work together to find agreements and solutions during the period when football is suspended.

While it is primarily up to the relevant parties at

national level to find solutions to fit the circumstances in their own country, FIFA recommends looking at all aspects of each situation in an even handed manner, including what government measures are there to support clubs and players, whether pay should be deferred or reduced and what insurance coverage may exist.

If parties cannot agree and, as a consequence, cases come to FIFA, the factors to be examined will include the following: whether there was a genuine attempt by the club to reach agreement with the players; what the economic situation of the club is; the proportionality of any adjustment to player contracts; the net income position of players after any contract adjustment; and whether players have been treated equally or not.

In this way, FIFA hopes that it will be able to find solutions that are fair and

balanced for both sides.

Transfer windows: With regard to transfer windows, again, it is necessary to adjust the normal regulatory position to the new factual circumstances. Accordingly, FIFA will be flexible and will allow the relevant transfer windows to be moved so they fall between the end of the old season and the start of the new season.

At the same time, FIFA will try to ensure, where possible, an overall level of coordination and will also bear in mind the need to protect the regularity, integrity and proper functioning of competitions, so that the sporting results of any competition are not unfairly disrupted.

Further background and details concerning the guidelines approved by the Bureau of the Council can be found in the COVID-19: Football Regulatory Issues document.

Formula One furloughs staff as bosses take pay cuts London (Reuters) Formula One has put almost half its staff on furlough until the end of May due to the novel coronavirus with chairman Chase Carey and senior management also taking a pay cut, an F1 spokesman said yesterday.

Sources said those on furlough were mainly employees whose work was focused on race weekend activities and who could not carry out duties remotely. The Liberty Media-owned company employs in excess of 500 people.

The Formula One season has yet to start, with the March 15 season-opener in Australia cancelled along with the Monaco showcase in May. Six other races have been postponed and Formula One hopes to start up some time in the European summer, conditions permitting, with a reduced schedule of 15-18 races.

The spokesman said the senior leadership team had voluntarily taken a 20% pay cut but would remain at work while Carey, an American, had taken a bigger reduction.

Formula One gains most of its revenue from race promotion fees, broadcast deals and advertising and sponsorship which have all been stalled by the virus with most sport at a standstill globally.

Three of the seven British-based teams — McLaren, Williams and Racing Point - have also

Chase Carey furloughed staff in the past week to cut costs.

Under the British government’s furlough scheme announced last month, employers can claim for 80% of employees’ usual monthly wage costs, up to 2,500 pounds ($3,068) per month.

The teams are currently on a factory shutdown, with the August break brought forward to allow space for race rescheduling.

The shutdown for all competitors and power unit manufacturers was extended on Tuesday from 21 to 35 days, all to be taken in March, April and/or May, the governing FIA announced.

It said the move was approved by an e-vote of the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council after unanimous agreement by the Formula One strategy group, F1

commission and all 10 teams.

Champions Mercedes, who supply engines to three teams, have repurposed their Brixworth technology centre to manufacture a new breathing aid for new coronavirus patients.

Forty machines that would normally produce F1 pistons and turbochargers are being used to make up to 1,000 a day of the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices.

Formula One teams have already agreed to delay until 2022 significant technical rule changes planned for 2021 and use the same cars next year to save money.

McLaren boss Zak Brown warned at the weekend that Formula One is in “a very fragile state” and risks losing some of its 10 teams unless some big changes are made.

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How club psychologists prepare footballers for abnormal situations Soccerex - Psychologists from Athletic Club, Levante UD, Sevilla FC and Real Valladolid explain how footballers are being trained to manage confinement and how this may help others.

Maintaining routines, organising daily activities and continuing with training are some of the keys to returning in the best condition when the competition returns.

The COVID-19 outbreak has caused a sudden stoppage to everyday activities and led to the isolation of millions of people, including all Spanish professional footballers. The situation is new and uncertain for everybody which creates significant mental strain.

For LaLiga players, the difficulties are no different.

However thanks to the role of club psychology departments, best practice is on offer that can help them to manage a challenging situation, using techniques that can help the wider population.

Respecting routines - As Juan Manuel Gamito, coordinator of the psychology department for the Sevilla FC academy, explained: “A performance athlete is fundamentally, before an athlete, a person, so the effects they suffer are similar to that of any other citizen.”

However when it comes to routine, footballers follow a concrete schedule that can provide some welcome distraction during a quarantine. “Athletes at the top level are people who are used to having a very marked rhythm of activities,” Gamito continued. “They have a set agenda, sometimes a week in advance, from the time of getting up and going to bed, to the specific food plans, through to hours of training, competition and rest.”

Furthermore, these are directives received from others (such as the coach or

physical trainer), so they are used to being ‘directed’ in this sense,” he added. “So it is difficult to be in a new personal space in which they have to organise things autonomously.”

Taking this into account, Gamito’s advice is to “schedule the day”, so that players remember what to spend time on. Within this agenda, “fixed times” should be maintained, such as meal and sleep times, as carefully as possible.

“It is good to focus on routines and try to find a space to continue training, taking care of food and, above all, keep on speaking with others so that the change is not so noticeable,” added David Rincón, a psychologist at Athletic Club.

Coping with uncertainty and stress through planning - Although a footballer is somewhat more prepared for moments of stress and accustomed to strict routines and guidelines, the uncertainty of the current situation can still be a significant challenge.

“Not knowing what is going to happen with the competitions, not knowing when it can be resumed or if the objectives set at the beginning of the season can be met is very difficult for the players,” explained Lander Hernández, as head of the department of psychology and training at Real Valladolid CF. For Gamito, it is of great importance to “time out the activities of the day” and “to make a list of those activities that we most enjoy and to schedule them; either at the beginning of the day or at the end.”

This organisation can help to better cope with the COVID-19 outbreak which in many countries is preventing people from walking on the street and other basic outdoor exercise.

As Hernández points out, “This can cause the brain to

Kids having fun at the Concacaf Next Play Festival at the GFF National Training Facility in February. demand the exercise to which it is accustomed. Not carrying out these activities can increase levels of anxiety so needs to be controlled.”

Training the body as well as the mind - With external pressures particularly high, additional attention must be paid to mental health, a topic that LaLiga players are already accustomed to.

“During day to day training sessions the footballer not only works the physique but is subjected to significant cognitive training,” explained Juan Miguel Bernat from the highperformance psychology department of Levante UD. “Although they are training at home now, if the coaching staff does not continue to provide this training then the player may not switch off mentally.” This could affect sleep, among many other issues, he notes, adding: “It is important for the technical teams to provide a cognitive workout for the players, for example, an analysis of their

season, their areas to improve or a study of rivals.”

Cognitive training is further helped through a sense of competition, particularly within athletes.

“Footballers love to challenge themselves, beat rivals and break records” Bernet comments. “In this situation, players can continue being active but can be left without the possibility of competing and therefore without one of their fundamental motivations.”

“You must be aware that although you do not see your rival, you are competing against them every day,” he advises. “You have to make yourself aware that your rivals are in the same situation and that whoever takes the best advantage of these days will return to LaLiga with a competitive edge.”

Digital tools to provide support - During a period of home confinement, episodes of anxiety and depression are common. For this reason, clubs are focused on transmitting clear information about psychological keys, studies, routines or nutrition.

Athletic Club for example is sending such material to all players and coaches in all areas of the club, as well as opening up digital platforms to them. “With some teams some sessions are being done through digital platforms to talk about how we are coping with this situation and what the positive aspects are,”

commented Rincón. “It is important for everyone to express how they are feeling.”

Sevilla FC has also developed such correspondence to disseminate among the players, staff and their families, in which recommendations are given to help manage the quarantine. “This helps to not only to focus on not spreading the virus, but to prevent the creation of excessive stress or alarm both in players and their families,” Gamito said.

For its part, Levante UD also holds individual meetings with the players as a matter of routine. During this period, mental health training meetings are being held by videoconference. In addition, daily contact is maintained with the players to take an interest in their personal situation. “Working with players who are homebound and alone is especially important,” Bernat said. “Let’s bear in mind that the context is varied among players from other countries, players with children, players with partners or single players. We try to adapt to the reality of each one.”

Fighting as a team - With term challenges ahead, communities around the world will need to work together. Within football clubs, this is already a well understood message and the notion of teamwork will form

a key part of all psychological training.

At Real Valladolid CF, the club’s youth teams are trained with the message of “belonging to a group” and fighting for a common purpose, namely, to overcome the current pandemic. In the same way as approaching a football match, they are taught to understand the different roles that everyone will have and how to best facilitate hospital, police or military personnel to meet their own challenges.

This team approach extends to the household and serves as a useful approach for others who are required to be indoors. “We have explained the importance of taking on and dividing tasks at home and have players with tools for conflict resolution”, said Lander Hernández, who manages psychological training for the club’s youth teams.

In a constantly evolving situation, nothing can be certain and difficulties are being faced by everyone. But as a general guide, Levante UD offers its approach that has already been shared among the club.

“Focus on the present; structure the tasks of the next day; make sense of each day by setting goals, try not to alter the start and end times of sleep; do not hide your restlessness; talk about it with the closest people to you; and try to accept the situation,” Bernat concluded.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday April 08, 2020

Canadian Grand Prix ninth race off amid coronavirus crisis BBCsport - The Canadian Grand Prix has become the latest Formula 1 race to be postponed as a result of the coronavirus crisis. The Montreal event is the ninth race to be affected so far this season.

It was due to be held on 14 June, but organisers had to make a decision now because of the length of time required to set up the track.

Attempts will be made to find a slot for the popular race on the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve at the earliest opportunity in the summer.

Canadian Grand Prix president Francois Dumontier said: “I am proud to see how such wonderful initiatives and technical advancements stemming from Formula 1 are being applied in a time of crisis.

“At the moment it is crucial that all of our energies be put together to overcome Covid-19. We will welcome you with open arms at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve as soon as it is safe to do so.”

F1 is beholden to the climatological conditions in race locations as it seeks to reconstitute a calendar that contains at least the eight events required for the season to be classified as a World Championship.

The summers are warm in Montreal, but the Quebec city has bitterly cold and long winters. The Canadian Grand Prix was held in early October when Montreal first held the race in 1978, and then on the last weekend in September in

the subsequent three years, but the weather was often cold and by 1982 it was moved to its now-traditional June date.The postponement means the first scheduled race not to be either postponed or cancelled is the French Grand Prix on 26 June, but the social distancing policies in place around much of the world make it uncertain when the season can finally get under way.

The next scheduled race after that is the Austrian Grand Prix on 5 July.

Austria appears to be on course to be the first European country to gradually ease lockdown restrictions, although public events remain suspended until the end of June.

The British Grand Prix is next on the calendar on 19 July, and Silverstone has said it has until the end of April before it has to make a decision whether to postpone that date.

Silverstone has been in talks with F1 and is being considered as a likely starting point for the season in July or August, not least because seven of the 10 teams are based nearby in the southeast of England.

There have also been discussions about running two grands prix at Silverstone, the official British Grand Prix and a second event with a different title. F1 is considering all options as it seeks to kick off the season, including holding races behind closed doors.

Lewis Hamilton won the 2019 Canadian Grand Prix.

The sport has been taking major steps as it seeks to mitigate the effects of the coronavirus crisis, which significantly threatens F1’s three main income streams race-hosting fees, broadcast rights and sponsorship.

A substantial regulation change planned for 2021 has been postponed by a year, teams will have to use their 2020 cars again in 2021 and there are ongoing talks about lowering the new budget cap, which is set to be introduced at $175m (£135.9m) in 2021.

The McLaren, Williams and Racing Point teams have put a significant proportion of

Warner facing corruption charges in US court New York, CMC – Former international football strongman, Trinidadian Jack Warner, has again found himself at the centre of corruption charges after being implicated in another elaborate million-dollar scheme in a 53-count indictment unsealed Monday in the US District Court in Brooklyn.

The 77-year-old Warner, once a powerful vicepresident of football’s world governing body, FIFA, and a perennial head of continental governing body, CONCACAF, and Caribbean umbrella organisation, the CFU, has been accused of receiving up to US$5 million in bribes in relation to World Cup voting and the sale of media and broadcast rights.

His charges include wire fraud, money laundering and racketeering, with prosecutors alleging crimes to have taken place between

Former FIFA vice-president Jack Warner 1998 and 2011.

The indictment alleged that Warner “together with others, conspired to use their positions to engage in schemes involving the solicitation, offer, acceptance, payment and receipt of undisclosed and illegal payments, bribes and kickbacks”.

“Although the defendants and their coconspirators also helped pursue the principal purpose of the enterprise, the defendants and their co-

conspirators corrupted the enterprise by engaging in various criminal activities, including fraud, bribery and money laundering, in pursuit of personal and commercial gain.

“The conspirators also participated in the corruption of the enterprise by conspiring with and aiding and abetting their coconspirators in the abuse of their positions of trust and the violation of their fiduciary duties,” the (Continued on page 25)

staff on furlough and their drivers have taken pay cuts,

and F1 has done the same, with senior executives

taking a salary drop of at least 20%.

No decision on resuming play before May, says NBA Commissioner Silver Reuters NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said on Monday there will be no decision on ending the league’s coronavirus shutdown until May at the earliest.

Silver, speaking on the NBA’s Twitter account as part of the league’s new NBATogether initiative, said, “in a perfect world” the league would finish the regular season in some form and move onto the playoffs but that it was too early to make projections.

The NBA was the first major North American professional league to shut down over the COVID-19 pandemic, which has infected 1.27 million people globally and left over 70,000 dead, according to a Reuters tally.

“Essentially, what I’ve told my folks over the last week is that we just should just accept that, at least for the month of April, we won’t be in a position to make any decisions,” Silver said. “And I don’t think that necessarily means on May 1 we will be.”

In mid-March, with five weeks remaining in the 82game schedule, the NBA suspended its season until further notice after a player tested positive for the new coronavirus. Since then a number of other NBA players have tested positive, including former league Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant of the Brooklyn Nets.

The playoffs were originally scheduled to begin on April 18 and conclude in

NBA commissioner Adam Silver June and while Silver said the league had been working towards a variety of scenarios to restart the season there were just so many unknowns at this point.

“When we initially shut down we were calling it a hiatus or a pause, there was a notion of 30 days because there wasn’t any of the widespread view at that point that our country would in essence be entirely shut down over the next several weeks,” said Silver. “The fact is now sitting here today I know less, in a way, than I did then.”

Silver said the league was in “listening mode” and discussed with players and teams scenarios for restarting the season, including playing at practice facilities with no

fans or moving games to a single city.

But he added that in recent weeks the NBA had gone from discussing scenarios regarding possible start-up dates to a more dialled-back approach while waiting to see what happens with the fight against the pandemic. “Initially, for the first week, two weeks, we were looking at more specific scenarios,” Silver said. “If we start this date, what would it mean for the regular season?

When would the playoffs begin? When would they conclude?

“And, again, what I’ve learned over the last few weeks is that we just have too little information to make those sort of projections.”

Wednesday April 08, 2020

Kaieteur News

GCB staff sent on leave due to COVID-19 - staff and Academy players to collect full salary

By Sean Devers ll Sports Globally have been suspended due to the devastation of the Pandemic COVID-19 and Guyana, with five deaths recorded so far due to the virus is no exception with the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) calling off all cricket locally, indefinitely.

With the GCB Head office on Reagent Street closed and the daily Academy training suspended, the GCB and Academy players don’t have to worry about being paid their monthly salary, at least not for the next three months.

Secretary of the GCB and Director of Cricket Guyana Inc., Anand Sanasie spoke with Kaieteur Sport yesterday on how the Corona Virus has disrupted the sport in Guyana.

“I would first of all like to extend condolences to those that lost loved ones during this pandemic that is

A

creating havoc worldwide, we should all, at this time take precautions and adhere to the quarantine and other measures intended to limit the spread of COVID 19” Sanasie said.

People are being encouraged to stay at home if they don’t have anything urgent to do outdoors. But if they have to go out they are reminded to observe social distancing and with a curfew being enforced between 6 pm to 6 am, most stores remain closed even during the allowed opening hours.

Georgetown and many other towns in Guyana are at a virtual standstill.

According to Sanasie, the Guyana Cricket Board suspended all cricket tournaments and programmes about one month ago.

“Our players and staff have all been sent off on extended leave with full salaries, something we intend to have in effect until the end of May, at which

time a further assessment would be done” Sanasie informed.

The cricketers are the product that allow the Administration to sell the game to the fans and sponsors and often in past the player’s salary has been an ‘issue’ between the two sides. But lack of being paid during their time of inactivity will not be an issue during this break. “ Ye s ! T h e s a l a r y payment also applies to our academy players who will be paid their full salary for the next three months” stated Sanasie when asked about the player’s salary.

“At the GCB we recognise the players are our most important asset, hence as an organisation, we will continue to monitor every player to ensure they adhere to individual fitness programmes so that at the end of this they can easily return to the rigours of a professional athlete” Sanasie added.

PAGE 33

UFC: Dana White says fights to go ahead on private island Dana White has criticised the lockdown in parts of the United States.

Anand Sanasie During the period of the shut down the Guyana Jaguars Trainer and Physiotherapist Neil Barry is mandated to send programmes for the players to train at home. The CWI Director also provided a brief update on the LBI project which is his brain child.

“While we have suspended construction work at the LBI project, some land filling is still ongoing while one staff is tending to the ground irrigation to ensure the grass growth continues” Sanasie informed.

BBCsport - UFC president Dana White says he is close to securing a private island to continue hosting fights during the coronavirus crisis. White says UFC 249 will go ahead on 18 April at an undisclosed location.

The organisation was forced to postpone three events in recent months, but White says the calendar will resume for international fights this month.

“As of April 18, the UFC is back up and running,” White told the American entertainment news website

TMZ. He said he is “a day or two” away from finding a location to start hosting fights.

With countries tightening travel restrictions and borders, White plans to use a private island to fly in fighters who otherwise would not be able to get into the United States.

Lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was due to take on Tony Ferguson in New York at UFC 249 but, with Nurmagomedov in quarantine in Russia, White confirmed that Justin (Continued on page 25)

GMR&SC pays rt o p S tribute to the late Deryck ‘Mad Dog’ Jaisingh The late Deryck ‘Mad Dog’ Jaisingh (inset) was the reigning Unlimited Class Drag Racing champion.

Athletes who have already qualified will maintain their place by 2021.

Olympic qualification period suspended until 1 December 2020 No decision on resuming FIFA guidelines to address legal play before May, says consequences of COVID-19 NBA Commissioner Silver Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.