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Kaieteur News
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Guyana setting dangerous precedent with rapid spending of oil funds - Int’l Consultant While the PPP/C Government has oftentimes said that the Natural Resource Fund— which holds Guyana’s royalties and revenues made from the sale of its profit oil—will guarantee savings for future generations, the rapid pace at which it intends to start spending the said money from 2022 sets a dangerous precedent for its economic prospects. Making this assertion recently, among others, , was International Consultant and Co-Director of Energy Practice at Americas Market Intelligence (AMI), Arthur Deakin. Deakin, during an appearance on Kaieteur R a d i o ’s P r o g r a m m e – Guyana’s Oil and You, said his take is that there are some positives to the NRF Legislation but spending too quickly can have devastating economic consequences. Speaking to some of the positives of the law, Deakin said these include the simplification of the rules governing how the oil money would be withdrawn. Previously, there were to be two calculations governing the withdrawals, with the superior one being determined and subsequently used by the Finance Minister. In the new legislation passed by the PPP/C administration, these calculations were removed and it is now a Board of Directors that will determine how the money would be withdrawn based on a simplified formula then transferred to the Consolidated Fund. Deakin opined that this level of clarity is important for compliance with the tenants of transparency and accountability while making the money easy to follow. He said too that there are several bodies that have been tasked with ensuring accountability for the oil money such as a Public Accountability and Oversight Committee.
AMI Co-Director of Energy Practice, Arthur Deakin “But the problem here is that the members of these bodies will be appointed by the President. Also troubling is that there is no clear confirmation or approval process in the law for how he will select these persons. The law therefore gives too much power to the president. Sure you must have some political appointees administering the fund…But it can’t just be the president appointing everyone at his discretion for the most part,” Deakin said, while adding that the President will have the power to appoint members for a three to five member Board of Directors which will essentially control where the oil money will be invested. But what is equally concerning for Deakin is how quickly the money will be drawn down from the oil fund starting this year. According to the NRF Law, “In the fiscal year that this Act comes into o p e r a t i o n , notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1) and the First Schedule, the ceiling on the amount that may be withdrawn shall be the total balance accumulated in the account described as the ‘Natural Resource Fund’ as at the date that Act comes into operation.” Since the Act came into being on December 30, 2021
and the balance of the fund at the time was US$608M, the government has free reign to empty the oil account. Ta k i n g t h i s i n t o consideration, the AMI CoDirector said, “I understand that Guyana wants its people to benefit from these funds, as they should, but you also have to think about it in terms of sustainable development of the economy…the government will essentially drain most of the fund to spend and that is not a good precedent to set.” He added, “The idea of these funds is to allow for savings. I understand you want to develop now and set infrastructure and give back to the people but you risk overheating the economy. It is too high a figure to start with…Guyana is clearly overshooting on this front.” Deakin also criticised the absence of explicit penalties for acts of corruption such as insider trading. He said in handling such vast revenues, there needs to be clear penalties for wrongdoings. Overall, he posited that enough is not in place to ensure the NRF is rooted in transparency and accountability. CASE OF GHANA Despite heavy criticism, the PPP/C Government has remained steadfast in its belief that there is no need for specific penalties for the misuse of oil revenues.
President, Irfaan Ali According to the administration, the existing laws such as the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act (FMAA) are more than enough to address any malfeasance in public office. As a result, it hurriedly passed the Natural Resource Fund legislation on December 29, 2021, which was assented to hours later by President, Irfaan Ali. It is significant to note however, that while the Ali
administration insists that there is no need to outline explicit penalties for abuse or misuse of funds in the legislation, its Western counterpart, Ghana, which it claimed to have consulted on the NRF law, has shown a completely different approach toward the protection of the nation’s oil revenues. According to Ghana’s legislation governing its Petroleum Fund, “A person who (a) misappropriates the Petroleum Funds; (b) defrauds, attempts to defraud or conspires with another person to defraud the Republic in relation to the Petroleum Funds; (c) uses, attempts to use or conspires with another person to use information on the Petroleum Funds or documents relating to the Petroleum Funds for personal benefit or advantage or for the personal advantage or benefit of another person; commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine
of not less than five hundred thousand penalty units or to a term of imprisonment of not less than 15 years or to both.” It goes on to state that, “(2) A person who abets in the commission of an offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not less than two hundred and fifty thousand penalty units or to a term of imprisonment of not less than seven years or to both.” It is crucial to note that when Guyana pursued the creation of its first NRF legislation back in 2018, it was warned to have clear penalties or the fund could run the risk of failing to serve current and future generations. This advice was provided by the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI) which also cited numerous examples from around the world of how often Natural Resource Funds become easily mismanaged, and the perpetrators, mostly politicians, go unpunished.
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Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
NRF Law
– a gateway to grand thefts The only Guyanese who could somehow take a stand for the Natural Resource Fund Bill, today the law of the land (NRF Law), are those diehard PPP/C Government supporters, who refuse to think of the implications of what was passed, and for whom the government can do no wrong. Thankfully, there are other Guyanese around. People of conscience, with a willingness to exercise their minds in the examination of the pros and cons of this NRF Law, and raise their voices in protest at what can be nothing but detrimental to the nation’s prospects. Article 13 is such a group, and it is clear about where it stands (“Door opens for misuse of oil money -Article 13 says, following rushed passage of controversial NRF Bill” -KN January 10). We think that the Article 13 group was being kind, as the door not only opens, but blows apart, given what the PPP/C Government did embark upon, and which is now a standing legislation. The NRF Bill was rushed, whatever little listening there was by government, it was of still less substance, and of going through the motions, with barely any regard for what anyone was saying. The group pointed to the Santiago Principles, and the PPP/C Government’s continued distancing from anything to do with transparency. It also pointed to the devastating situation in Kazakhstan, which came about (in part) because of the Kazakhstan’s government hard headedness and lack of evenhandedness in how it dealt with that country’s wealth and the cries of its citizens. We had cause to editorialise on the developments in Kazakhstan and were compelled to draw parallels to what is taking place in Guyana. Our focus was primarily on the implications of where those parallels could degrade to here, especially with a mind to an aspect not present in the deadly circumstances that visited Kazakhstan, which is our bitter race issue. Article 13 was concerned, and we at this paper are, that the Government saw it fit to ignore, if not insultingly dismiss, the widespread outcries against an NRF Bill that was seen as objectionable at best, and execrable at worst. The bottom line was that, in spite of loud media protestations and sweeping societal disagreements from numerous corners, the PPP/C Government still insisted on having things its way, and rushed ahead with its one-seat majority to get what can only be described as the dirty deed done. It is a dirty deed. The passage of this NRF Bill, now the law, makes so much possible in terms of thievery and banditry on a scale not seen before in this country. As all Guyanese know, we have had more than our heavy share over the years, under one government after another, of costly thieveries and banditries. This NRF Bill gives carte blanche to leaders in the PPP/C Government to manipulate the law, the people selected, the structure enabled, and the associated circumstances to suit any kind of crooked vision to plunder this country’s oil fund, and still say that they broke no law with a straight face. What should be and would be a high crime in most democratic countries amounts to nothing in this country because there is no provision in this rushed law for misuse or abuse of the fund. This is only one of the sticking points in the new NRF legislation. Incredibly, there was the leadership cunningness to insert provisions to deal harshly with whistleblowers, or others who give out misleading information, but nothing for those who actually abuse the fund. It took some imagination and craftiness to come up with what protects likely thieves, and those salivating to get at this oil fund that most likely is already causing them sleepless nights, so eager are they to get their dirty hands on its enriching contents. What we note at this juncture, is that the PPP/C pulled out all the stops, and engaged many, during the stormy elections season, and that it was glad to capitalise on every voice and presence. Yet now that it is the government of the day, it doesn’t have the time of day for a word that serious citizens have to say about big things in this country, like the NRF Bill. Sincere consultation has been thrown out of the window, along with those who dare to stand in the way of a rampaging PPP/C Government, now so full of itself that it refuses to listen or budge.
Action taken by Glenn Lall is an integral aspect of the workings of a democracy DEAR EDITOR, Glenn Lall, Kaieteur News Publisher is going for broke. On Thursday, he got in the face of PPP/C Government and Exxon, when he placed matters before the High Court. There is a host of concerns that he could have targeted but taxes are what he decided to make the centerpiece of his ongoing battle, some would say full out war, that he has been waging long and tirelessly from the trenches of his sometimes-besieged newspaper, and his own version of a one-man parliament, which is the radio station in the network he owns. At a general level, his application takes aim at and combines provisions in the Tax Act, the Financial Administration (Audit) Act, the Petroleum Exploration and Production Act, the Petroleum Agreement itself, the Prevention of Discrimination Act, and the Constitution of Guyana to assert violations of provisions in the law. He has taken the
lead, and fired yet another salvo in his continuing crusade against what he sees and fervently believes is an abomination of an oil contract, and that which is debilitating to the welfare of Guyanese today and yet unborn. To a considerable extent, a good number of Guyanese from all walks of life, and at every level in this society, have quietly agreed with him from the protection of the shadows, and have cheered him on. Now comes the hour of test to determine what Guyanese are made of, and what they stand for, if anything, besides letting their neighbour do the heavy lifting and run ahead alone with the risks. A most sensitive and meaningful segment of this society that should find it convenient, indeed compulsory, to have a say must be the legal fraternity, either from under the umbrella of recognised representative bodies, or as individual prac-
titioners. In both instances, whatever they do or don’t do should sound a clarion call as to how people view the oil situation (a sturdy euphemism) in Guyana, and whether they see it as a call to arms and the linking of arms (or more sitting on their hands) to signal that we agree with this step taken by Lall and we are with him on this. I think that a powerful statement would be made through the filing of supporting briefs (amicus curiae) at the Appeal Court level, which is the first step in the journey of what was started on Thursday. As I see it this is going to go all the way, which is going to put the PPP/C Government and its brain trust in a precarious position. If they are true patriots, then they should not fight this to the death, but be ready to throw in the towel and present the holding to Exxon, be it from here or elsewhere in the region. It would be that the Court(s) have spoken, and we
are loathe to go against it, since it would call into question the very institutions on which the society is based. Should this not pan out as anticipated judicially, then I suspect there will be resorting to other legal mechanism to overthrow that hangs over the nation’s head and strangles it. Meanwhile, ordinary citizens also have an opportunity to manifest their mettle, since they are the ones who would lose the most and benefit the most. They must not be silent or detached, not on this occasion. It is time for all interested and conscientious Guyanese to put aside party loyalties and to place both their own interests and that of the nation first. The PPP/C Government came into being as part of the democratic process. The action taken by Glenn Lall is an integral aspect of the workings of a democracy also. We shall see. Sincerely, GHK Lall
Oil workers win workplace respect DEAR EDITOR The GAWU Oil and Gas Branch remains convinced that its work among workers in our nascent oil and gas sector remains relevant to ensuring that workers’ rights are respected. Through our efforts and with the assistance of several brave workers, a foreign multinational enterprise operating in Guyana has recently informed its employees that it is committed to respecting all workers’ rights. This represents a major success for the workers of the company and more so the sector given the many reports of exploitative practices being perpetuated. Previously, the GAWU had drawn to attention that the company, in its employment contracts, explicitly denied workers their right to belong to trade unions. The inclusion of such a prohibitive clause ran counter to the Constitution of Guyana which
guarantees such rights to all workers. This was among several other issues workers of the company brought to the GAWU’s knowledge. Our Union subsequently informed the Ministry of Labour. GAWU was later informed that Company was advised by the Ministry that it needed to remove the offensive condition. Though the company committed to same, GAWU’s follow-up with employees revealed that the commitment did not materialize. This was communicated to the Ministry and a further engagement with the Company. Following that engagement, the Company, by memorandum, informed its employees that it was respectful of all labour rights and standards. This is a significant move given the previous aversion to upholding workers’ rights. Workers in the sector also
scored another victory through the insistence by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) to have foreign-flagged vessels in the sector have onboard a copy of their Seafarers Employment Agreement. That agreement would advise of important matters such as wages, hours of work, and other benefits. Previously, many workers in the sector have indicated to GAWU they are in the dark regarding how their pay and benefits are calculated. Indeed, we are hopeful that the MARAD decision is implemented by all vessels. At this time, we urge that serious consideration be given to the ratification of the ILO’s Maritime Labour Convention which strengthens protections to workers employed offshore. Indeed, given the challenges workers are confronting, every effort should be pursued to ensure that they
are protected. On this score, the GAWU is aware that fear-mongering is utilized by some enterprises to dissuade workers from speaking up. Such ploys are not new but demonstrate the ends pursued by those who accumulate wealth from the workers efforts. We detest such measures and see such pressures as, yet another means to cheat workers out of their due benefits. The victories demonstrate, without a doubt, the achievements workers can realize and the respect they can earn when they work together with organizations aligned with their interests. We certainly believe greater victories are possible and we encourage workers to continue to engage our Union to ensure that their rights are respected. Regards, Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union
Collective efforts required to stem COVID-19 wave DEAR EDITOR, The FITUG notes with concern the rapid rise in the number of COVID-19 infections over the past week. We recognise that Guyana is not unusual and several of our
neighbours are experiencing similar spikes thought to be related to the omicron variant. Though, the presence of the variant remains unconfirmed in Guyana, undoubtedly if we are to overcome the
As an economist articulated, “When you put politicians in charge of spending money and big, big money like that kind, you are going to have a lot of problems.” We couldn’t have said it better. This is where all the signs point; to where the passage of this NRF Bill, now the law, is going to lead, and with unwanted consequences for this society. When politicians are near big money, there is big trouble. It’s a Guyanese standard.
present wave it requires the efforts of all Guyanese. On this score, we recognise, to some extent, laxity on the part of some of our people. This does not help in the efforts to contain the virus or to minimize infections and more importantly deaths. While many have chosen to speak of other measures, maybe to score political points, the non-adherence to measures represents one of the most challenging facets of the ongoing battle. Indeed, it requires our individual and collective ef-
forts if we are to actively stem infections. We also remain concerned that it appears our inoculation programme has reached seemingly stalled. Though we recognise that Guyanese continue to come forward to obtain their vaccines, the pace appears to be slowing thus eluding us from attained herd immunity. Critically too we note that many persons are not returning for their second does. This does not help our fight especially (Continued on page 18)
Saturday January 15, 2022
What crossover voters want PPP, PNC to know DEAR EDITOR, Both the PNC and PPP came to power through the votes of “Crossover voters” in 2015 and 2020,and hang by a thread of a one-seat majority. In 2011, the PPP was a minority Government by one seat. In politics now, the “Crossover” voters matter for any party to win an election! What the PNC and PPP need to know is that Crossover voters want the PPP to govern well and justly and without corruption, and we want them to be very successful. Similarly, Crossovers want the PNC to serve faithfully as a vibrant, viable Opposition and a Government in waiting. We want a strong, responsible Opposition asking questions and requesting public disclosures of information incessantly. This is needed to make sure democracy is preserved, corruption is exposed, and that the Government is doing its job well. Crossovers want honesty, decency, and integrity, and ethical behaviour from the Opposition as well as the Government. When Crossovers gave the PPP the nod in 2020, it was not because the PPP had clean hands and the PNC didn’t. These two parties have bedeviled the nation for six decades. They both have ‘sticky’ hands. Guyana’s elections have always been about choosing between “the devil” and “the deep blue sea.” Some say it’s choosing between “dumb and dumber.” Any Party that refuses to renegotiate a wicked oil contract that would keep poor people poor is simply dumb. I leave it to you to determine which party is which. When crossovers voted for the PNC and PPP in 2015
and 2020, it was with the expectation that they would “go and sin no more,” not continue in old ways and bad habits. Crossovers will not support any party that becomes a kleptocracy. So if the PPP thinks a oneseat majority is justification and a landslide mandate to railroad its agenda without consultation, it has misjudged the mind and resolve of the Crossovers and is losing goodwill quickly. Crossovers will not support that. The hash tag of Crossovers now is, “Never Again PNC” given that the PNC tried to rig in 2020, the way it rigged from 1964-1992. They see the PNC as unredeemable, and that rigging cannot be erased from their DNA. But Crossovers do not believe “Never Again PNC” means “automatic shoo-in for the PPP.” If the PPP wants to continue where it left off in 2015 and wants to govern the same way, Crossovers will look for another party, and support an emerging “Third Force.” Crossovers see an unrepentant, unredeemed PNC, as is, as a “dead horse.” If you’re riding a horse and it dies, get off. Changing riders, trying a new bit or bridle, painting the horse, or buying a stronger whip, will not bring that horse to life again. Changing captains after the Titanic hit the iceberg would not have made a difference. The PNC and PPP need to understand that Crossovers tend to be very educated about the issues. They don’t see themselves as PR people for any party. They will critique any party when necessary because they are nationalists, not partisans. Crossovers want to see
adherence to high ethics in and out of Parliament. “Slow fire, mo fire” and violent “street action” will not attract Crossover votes. Crossovers are tired of the old politics of divide and rule, the politics of exclusion, and hypocrisy about unity or “One Guyana.” Crossovers also believe that the nation’s wealth belongs to all the people. It’s “our wealth, our country.” The Government is the trustees and caretakers, not the owners. Such wealth is for the benefit of all our people, not foreign Corporations. Investors deserve a reasonable profit but not almost 90% while Guyana gets only 10%. Crossovers want both the PNC and PPP to apologise to the nation for their sins against the people in giving away Guyana’s oil, gas, gold, timber, and other such natural resources. Foreign companies get tax waivers and huge profits while Guyanese live “handto-mouth.” Crossovers want the PPP and PNC to confess their sins, repent and be on the same side with the people against rapacious, parasitic foreign Corporations fleecing our nation with our Government’s and Opposition’s connivance. Crossovers want renegotiation of the oil contracts now and will not ever compromise on this issue! Ignore these Crossovers to your own peril and your stay in Government will be uncertain, regardless of how many hampers you gave out! Crossovers will support Mr. Glenn Lall’s legal challenge to the iniquitous oil contract. Sincerely, Dr. Jerry Jailall
Deserving commendations DEAR EDITOR, The gentleman who rescued and rendered assistance to the young girl found by the roadside in a traumatised condition is deserving of high accolades (KN Jan 13). The young girl too must be commended for her bravery in escaping her attacker and for having the presence of mind, even in her traumatised state, to take a photo of the vehicle’s number plate, which eventually led
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to the capture of the alleged attacker. It is hoped swift justice will prevail and the young lady will be able to soon overcome her ordeal. For the alleged attacker he must face the consequences of his actions including using a private vehicle as a taxi in public service, which is against the regulations. Regards, Shamshun Mohamed
Guyana Cybercrime law fails to address the importance of civil liberties as an element of national cybersecurity strategy DEAR EDITOR, Cybersecurity is an essential element in a nationstate’s national security strategy. Cybersecurity impacts the lives of each citizen in everyday activities. The impact results from increased use and improved information and communication technology (ICT), and several international bodies recommend developing national cybersecurity strategies to protect ICT infrastructure. Those recommendations include garnering government support, implementing a legal framework, and considering the protection of civil liberties. The Organization of American States (OAS) supports the need for government support and agrees with the above recommendations. The OAS partners with several Latin American countries and the Caribbean to develop their legal framework and cybersecurity strategies. These developments accomplish through a working group focused on ministers and attorney generals of member countries. As a member, Guyana participates in developing a legal framework to combat cyber-crime and foster international cooperation. In 2013, Guyana responded to an initial questionnaire for the Eighth Meeting of the Working Group on Cyber-Crime. The focus was on legislation, international corporation, national efforts, cybercrime prosecutions, and training. Guyana confirmed that it was a criminal act to intercept network communication and possess child pornography illegally. However, the country did not criminalize illegal access, data interference, system interference, device misuse, computer-related forgery, computer-related fraud, copyright infringements, and other applicable cybercrimes. At that time, the country did not prosecute any individual, and they stated that there were no difficulties with persecutions. Guyana’sformer APNU/ AFC government implemented The Cyber Crime Bill (2018), including all the ques-
tionnaire elements developed by the Working Group on Cyber-Crime. The elements reflected the consideration and work of the group in the context of a legal framework. Guyana extended this to include “Offenses of sedation” and “Using a computer system to coerce, harass, intimidate, among other such languages a person,” which questions the appropriateness of civil liberties protections. The decision to develop laws in response to external accountabilities augured well for the nation. However, the government created an ethical dilemma for interpreting offenses of sedition and using a computer to coerce. Description of the Offenses: The Cyber Crime Bill (2018) contains an article, Article 18 (1), that states a person commits sedition if they publish media that creates contempt towards the government. This offense is supported by language that a person is guilty of using a computer to advocate a government change or commit treason. The clause also includes language that offers protection to the president, prime minister, and government ministers from critique within the sovereign territory - digital borders. The law attempts to include individuals residing in and out of the country and prescribes imprisonment for five years. The Cyber Crime Bill (2018) contains another article, Article 19 (1), that states it is a crime to use a computer to coerce, humiliate, stalk, harass, among other such acts another person. The article includes language that it is criminal to publish vulgar, profane, and lewd media that creates emotional distress. The offense also includes using a computer system to extort, cause public ridicule, and hatred to a person or group. This offense includes a fine of five million dollars and imprisonment for three
years. The National Fact Pattern: Guyana is a multi-ethnic country with people sharing opposing political and different religious beliefs. Transparent Institute Guyana Inc. agrees with several elements of the Bill: cyber bullying, child porn, revenge porn, blackmail, and copyright infringement. However, there is an assault on the freedom of expression in Article 18 (1). The sedition language is very subjective because the feelings of disloyalty towards the government cannot be measured. The Betrayal Trauma Theory and how an affected individual perceives it highlight the problems of concluding an individual lived experience, “particularly in the face of social pressures.” There is a similarity between Article 18 and that of Article 19. Although it is criminal to harass and intimidate an individual, there is a thin line between freedom of expression and the law’s subjectivity. In recent years, social media provides a platform to express dissatisfaction against people, companies, and specific groups. The government could use these articles to control dissident narratives. According to Transparent Institute Guyana Inc., there is no protection for an individual who makes a social media post, any provocative statement about the president. There are exceptions outlined in subsection four of the Bill that provides a restrictive structure for criticizing the government. Resolution of the Issue: The sedition clause is an attempt to legislate uncommon respect for government officials. The values of individualism versus collectivism, (Continued on page 6)
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Five remanded to prison for beating Black Bush Polder man
Yesterday, five suspects appeared at the Whim Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Alex Moore and were all slapped with the charge of inflicting grievous bodily harm on 29-year-old Gregory Bhola of Johanna South, Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, Berbice. The incident occurred on Sunday, January 9, 2022, about 17:45hours at Johanna South, Black Bush Polder, Corentyne Berbice. Appearing in court before Magistrate Moore were: Zameer Alli, 22, a fisherman of Lot 19 Grassfield, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice; Ameer Alli called “Marlon” a 23-yearold labourer of Lot 19 Grassfield, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice; Devindra Nandlall called “Buddy”, a 30-year-old construction worker of Lot 30 Bound Yard, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice; Balraj Sakichand called “Ravin”, a 28-year-old rice farmer of Lot 41 Bound Yard, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice and Khemraj Sakichand called “Saki”, a 30-year-old fisherman of Lot 50 Bound Yard, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice. The men appeared via Skype and the indictable charge was read to them. They were not required to enter a plea. Bail was subsequently refused and they were all remanded to prison until February 1, 2022 for report. Police in Region Six arrested the five men on January 10, 2022 at Bound Yard, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice following a tip off. They were arrested for mercilessly beating Bhola thus causing him to be hospitalised in a critical condition at the New Amsterdam Hospital. Errol Bhola called “Ninney”, 64, a farmer and father of the injured man, had told police that he was on his way home from his farm in Black Bush when he was informed that five identifiable men were beating his son. He said
Saturday January 15, 2022
Kaieteur News
The future is looking good for Guyana DEAR EDITOR, The World Bank, in its latest Global Economic Prospects, projected that Guyana’s economy would grow by some 49.7 percent in 2022. This is staggering and is worth a big shout from all of us here. According to the Finance Head, Dr. Ashni Singh, this anticipated economic growth comes as no surprise given the Government’s work to boost investor confidence. To really grasp the enormity of Guyana’s projected financial well-being, I need to contextualize a few things. First, the International Monetary Fund, the IMF, suggested that the global economy shrank by 4.4% in 2020. The organisation described the decline as the worst since the Great Depression of the 1930s. The only major economy to grow in 2020 was China. It registered a growth of 2.3%. It adds that “We see the world economy growing by 5.7% through the end of 2021. We expect growth to slow to 4.6% in 2022.” Secondly, the World Bank has cut its forecast for global economic growth in 2022, say-
ing that COVID-19 flare-ups, supply chain shortages, and waning government support have resulted in a “pronounced slowdown” of the recovery from the pandemic. So, no one can doubt how well Guyana is beginning to fare. According to Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, this kind of optimism, based on real figures, is a result of the work that the Government has put into creating an investor friendly environment. He detailed that “We are pleased to see the positive revision in the World Bank’s outlook for Guyana. This is good news, but we are not surprised. This is in fact to be expected given our government’s strong policy stance as it relates to economic growth, to investment, to job creation and income generation for the benefit of all Guyanese.” Let us be reminded that when the Administration belatedly took office in August 2020, a lot of work was necessary, as the country was in dire straits, but as Dr. Singh pointed out, financial jurisprudence prevailed resulting in several immediate interventions “… aimed at stimulating economic activity, including
injecting liquidity in the economy through the Covid19 cash grant, reduction of taxes, and increased public expenditure in critical infrastructure projects were undertaken.” All these have paid great dividends. So, for the Minister, there is no big surprise in Guyana’s high rating, as “What we are seeing now is the result of measures and interventions such as these.” One more thing and that is, right in the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, unprecedented floods hit Guyana, to the point that “… we are still grappling with the tail end of the effects of the severe and devastating floods that we had in 2021…” the Minister aptly pointed out. I expect now that with what has so far unfolded since August 2020, Guyanese can be very up-beat. Why? The Government promises to remain resolutely committed to ensuring that the economy achieves strong growth and very importantly, strong growth that is translated into business opportunities and job creation and income for Guyanese people. Yours truly, Attiya Baksh
The Guyana Police Force abusing distress?” Many Guyanese the Cybercrime law are aware that the GPF is a
when he ventured to the location, he saw the five men – one armed with a cutlass, one with an iron bar and the other three with pieces of wood – beating his son. He told police that he asked the men why they were beating his son and they told him to ‘stay out of the matter or else we will kill you.” He was then told to get on his knees by one of the men and after he did not comply, he was pushed to the ground. The men continued to beat his son “mercilessly” in a nearby yard. Feeling helpless, Errol said he decided to head to the Mibicuri Police Station where he filed a report. He was subsequently accompanied by police officers to the scene and they immediately escorted Gregory to the Mibicuri Public Hospital. He was seen and examined by a doctor and then transferred to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital where he was further examined and admitted in the Intensive Care Unit. His condition is listed as critical.
DEAR EDITOR, The recent “arrest” of Sherod Duncan is yet another example of the GPF carrying out the political agenda of the PPP Government. If the GPF arrests Mr. Duncan for his alleged use of the terms “jaggabat and trench crappo”, it should also arrest every other Guyanese including PPP Government officials and party activists that use similar language daily online. But this is not the case, strangely only persons associated with the APNU-AFC Coalition are “arrested.” Let us forget about this, what is criminal about use of the term jaggabat and trench crappo? You see where I am going? Soon, anyone who feels offended because someone refers to them as a “jackass”, monkey, or jungle crappo (maybe it is because the
crappo resides in the trench and not the bush, this is why Mr. Duncan was arrested) can engage the police to arrest the name caller. Readers should know that Guyana’s Cybercrimes laws are being made a mockery of, just like the GPF. Actions by the GPF such as the above, further reduces the integrity of the force and highlight that elements of the organization frequently carryout the agenda of politicians. In fact, GPF officers break traffic and other laws with no regard for where and when such laws are violated. Oftentimes, drivers of GPF vehicles use sirens just to avoid traffic or to breach traffic regulations. Many officers are also seen at rum shops drinking and engaging in the usual cursing and talk name custom. Should they also be arrested for causing others “emotional
corrupt outfit, oftentimes serving the political vendetta and agenda of wealthy business persons and politicians. The PPP Government is nothing less than a dictatorial Government, even though it likes to brand the PNC as same. Sadly, many high-ranking officers of the GPF engage in making a mockery of our laws, carrying out political agendas and covering up crimes linked to wealthy and political influential individuals for a little top up and as a favour to the PPP for promotion purposes. Instead of doing their work with fear or favour as they have sworn to do, they allow themselves to be intimidated and corrupted. Let us see if Mr. Fredrick Kissoon will write about these this travesty regarding Mr. Duncan, his AFC colleague. Regards, C. Singh
Something is not right at the Guyana Fire Service DEAR EDITOR, The head of the Guyana Fire Service (GFC) has been in the news in recent days for all the wrong reasons. It would appear that the skeletons in his closet were laid bare after some allegations involving the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs and other of-
ficials at the GFC were made by a social media commentator. Now that the Fire Chief has proceeded on his pre- retirement leave, and rightly so it appears, what of the allegations against the PS and other officials? Suryaveer
T N U L B . . . T B N U T L N T B . U . L . L T B . N . U . N U T L N B . U . T . L N T U N B . N U . L U L LUNT. B . T . . T T N N B U B . U . L . L T B . B . . N . . . T U T L N N T U U L N L B U . B . . L . . . T B T . . N . N T U L N LU B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . NT LUNT...B NT...BLU N U L B . . B . U . . T L . N T B . . U N . L N T B U N . . L . U T L B . . N B . . . T U . L N T B U . . L . UN T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L B U UN .BLUNT. . . L . T B . . N . T U . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . LU ...BLUNT LUNT...B NT...BL T B U . . L N . T B BLU T...BLUN BLUNT... UNT...B . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B U . . L N . T B BBLU T...BLUN BLUNT... ...BLU . T . N . N T T U L U L N L B U T...BLU U B . L . N . B T . . . N T U N N N L U U U B L . L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Saturday January 15, 2022
Kaieteur News
Criminals are on the prowl!
As if we are not faced with a bad enough pandemic, there are those among us who are like the pandemic – bent on causing harm to innocent people going about their daily lives.
It is clear that we cannot count on the police force for round-theclock protection but at least we can strive to be our brothers’ keepers. Guyanese, take no chances; always be on the alert.
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Saturday January 15, 2022
Mexican company sues State over halted parking meters project Smart City Solutions (SCS), a Mexican Company, has sued the Government of Guyana (GOG) for US$100 million as compensation in relation to a parking meters project which was introduced under the previous administration, some five years ago. This was revealed by the Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, during his weekly online programme – ‘Issues in the news.’ Describing the parking meters issue as one of importance, the Attorney General recalled that the project was introduced in 2016 by the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) under the stewardship of Mayor Patricia Chase-Greene. However, the project was
stalled after it was rejected and faced massive protest by many citizens. Nandlall said that most people might have forgotten about the parking meters project but the company has not. “We all forgot about the parking meters project. Well, the company that was responsible has not forgotten. The company has filed proceedings in an institution called the International Center for Settlement of Investments Disputes (ICSID) in Washington DC, against the government of Guyana,” he related. The Attorney General then highlighted that SCS is claiming compensation against the government for the project in the sum of US$100 million. The ICSID is an international arbitration
Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC. institution established in 1966 by the World Bank Group for legal dispute resolution and conciliation between international investors and States.
The case was filed on December 22, 2021, by the claimants: Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, New York, NY and Houston, TX, U.S.A, and Fraser & Housty, Attorneys at Law, Georgetown, Guyana. The A t t o r n e y G e n e r a l ’s Chambers, Ministry of Legal Affairs, Georgetown, Guyana, was listed as the respondent.
According to the ICSID website, the status of the matter is pending and the latest development in the matter is that the acting Secretary-General has registered a request for the institution of arbitration proceedings. Nandlall noted during his programme that this is the kind of destruction that the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition, has left behind. “Fast forward, a year and a half after we still now have to fetch another burden, another burden in which we have to hire lawyers in America to defend a contract that they entered into…This is the kind of destruction that these people have done,” the Attorney General said. The Attorney General Chambers have already been served copies of all the documents filed on behalf of the company, and the Chambers has since retained a law firm in Washington, Foley Hoag and Associates,
which would be leading a t e a m f r o m t h e A G ’s Chambers to defend the proceedings. According to the AG, the proceedings have commenced and one of the first tasks is to appoint a panel of arbitrators who will be presiding over the case. However, that process is ongoing and when the tribunal is appointed, then the AG Chambers will file answer to the claims that were made and they will also make their technical objections. Following the announcement of the M&CC plans to implement the parking meters in the capital city, hundreds of people had gathered to protest. According to reports, a controversial trip was made to Mexico to examine parking meters, a contract was signed, the city forged ahead with the plans and the company started implementation. The parking meters (Continued on page 16)
Govt. spent over US$40 million to upgrade community roads in 2021 A total of $8.89 billion (just over US$40M) was spent to build and rehabilitate miscellaneous and urban roads in Guyana last year. This is according to the Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, who on Monday made the revelation during his Ministry’s yearend press conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. According to the Minister, this was one of the biggest programmes undertaken by his Ministry for last year. In budget 2021, a sum of $9 billion was allocated to the ministry for miscellaneous and other roads programme in the country. Indar noted that during last year a total of 303 miscellaneous roads (community road) and about 36 urban roads were done across Guyana. “So together we had about 339 roads and that would have been done in every single community we went to and check there was a road built or roads being built there,” he explained. The Minister stated that the demand for roads and the speed at which they deliver them remains a key focus for the Ministry. “We are working with every community to make sure roads are built so that we make it easy to walk and
Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar. come in because some of the infrastructures of the country were very dilapidated,” he added. Still on the topic of roads, it was disclosed that a sum of $1.2 billion was expended last year for main access roads in the country, which saw about 18 contracts being signed. The sum covers for main access roads at Wales, on the West Bank of Demerara, De Hoop Branch Road, Canal Polder 1 and 2, Lima Sands, Good Hope and Schoonord. “So these are some of the big areas, in which the main access roads have been dealt and this is another aspect of the Ministry of Public Works,” Indar added. According to reports, in
September last, Mohammed Fawaz Bacchus Construction was awarded a $36.9million contract to do sectional repairs using asphaltic concrete on the Schoonord main access road, which has been in a deplorable state for some time. In Canal No.2, Japarts Construction Incorporated was awarded a $173 million contract to do repairs on 1.2km of asphaltic concrete road there, while in Canal No.2, Aronco Services Incorporated was awarded a $170 million contract for repairs on 1.2km of road. Meanwhile, the Naamless to Bendroff stretch of road in Parika was rehabilitated to a tune of $60 million, while some $38 million was spent on the Naamryck access road to Loading Facility road in Region Three. In August last, bids were open for the rehabilitation of miscellaneous roads at Leguan, Blankenburg, Mon Repos and Uitvlugt. It was noted that at least two of these projects are completed while others are still ongoing. Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill during the press conference shared that these road programmes have a multiyear span thus all were completed in 2021.
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Kaieteur News
Community law is supreme The local private sector appears to have either a poor or selective memory. It seems to have forgotten that on the 2nd August, 2018, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association held its Annual Luncheon at the Guyana Pegasus Hotel. The Guest Speaker at that event was the distinguished President of the Caribbean Court of Justice, Justice Adrian Saunders. In his remarks, he related to those gathered that states are not entitled to discriminate between or among regional private entities. In other words, what the President of the CCJ was saying was that a Member State of the CARICOM cannot extend preferential treatment to a local company to the disadvantage of a regional firm. Article 7 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC) states: “Within the scope of the application of this Treaty and without prejudice to any special provision contained therein, any discrimination on grounds of nationality only shall be prohibited.” He also observed that, “This approach led the court to order one state to repay to a private entity of another state, millions of dollars in taxes that had been imposed on the private entity in circumstances where local private entities were being exempted from paying the tax.” In another presentation entitled, “ the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas: Conflicts and Contradictions for the Island State”, Justice Saunders had described Article 7 as a general prohibition against discrimination on the
grounds of his or her nationality and further stated that this translates to a right of every citizen not to be discriminated against on grounds of his or her nationality. Those who misguidedly argue that Guyana’s laws take precedence over a regional law are erring. It has long been held that community law takes precedence over any conflicting national law. Recourse exists for aggrieved parties to take their case to the CCJ. In 2007, then President of the CCJ, Michael de la Bastide, addressed the Annual Dinner of the Rotary Club of Georgetown and made this observation: “When one considers such provisions of the Treaty as the general prohibition in Article 7 against discrimination on the grounds of nationality alone, and those designed to eradicate anticompetitive business conduct within the region, one might well conclude that the breach by a Member State of virtually any provision of the Treaty could give an individual or company the right to bring proceedings in the Court.” Such proceeds have indeed been brought. Guyana was found by the CCJ to be in defiance of the principle of non-discrimination, not once but twice. It again is in violation of the RTC. Guyana’s local content law is discriminatory against regional firms. The local content law provides for locals to enjoy as much as 90 percent of services such as rental of office space, apartments and houses and
accounting services. It also carves out exclusively for locals, services such as customs brokerage, transportation, insurance and legal services. These targets prohibit access of regional firm and therefore, are in flagrant violation of Article 7 of the RTC. They also collide with other provisions of the RTC. Article 37(1) of the RTC states, “Subject to the provisions of this Treaty, Member States shall abolish discriminatory restrictions on the provision of services within the Community in respect to Community nationals.” Article 38 states, “Subject to the provisions of this Chapter, the Member States shall remove discriminatory restrictions in the banking, insurance and other financial services.” The private sector, however, wants to ignore the RTC and to argue a case that Guyana’s interests come first. In a feeble attempt to defend Guyana’s recent assented Local Content law, the Private Sector Commission stated, “We therefore stand by and fully endorse the aims and objectives of the Act which are designed to ensure that Guyanese companies and nationals benefit from the Oil and Gas sector.” Well, the PSC has to decide whether it wants to be part of the Caribbean Community or not. It has to make a choice between insularity and regionalism. It cannot, on the one hand, profess its support for regional integration and for a single market and economy
Dem boys seh ...
Is plenty business doing at dem traffic lights Deh gat some lil boys wah does deh by dem traffic light. And while yuh waiting fuh de green light dem does come up and clean yuh windscreen fuh yuh. Some ah dem does start clean even before yuh signal dat yuh accept dem fuh do suh. And sometimes, deh does reach some wicked drivers. Dem wicked drivers does wait till dem boys does clean de windscreen and dem does drive off without giving dem lil boys a freck. Is suh we does roll sometimes in Guyana. Dem gat nuff beggars
also by dem traffic light junction. Yuh gat young people, yuh gat children, yuh gat women with baby in hand and another on de way. Yuh gat Guyanese, Cuban, Brazilian and Venezuelan. All ah dem plying dem trade by de corner. All ah dem doing dem business. And dem does want come up to yuh car window, push dem head to de window and ask fuh a raise. Now with COVID and especially with de threat of Omicron, dem boys nah wan nobody pushing dem face near to dem, especially if is a beggar who deh pun de road whole day.
Some ah dem nah even wearing mask and others nah wearing dem mask properly. So dem boys nah winding down no window. Sorry beggars, yuh gah nothing fuh get from dem boys until de COVID pass and dat look like it gan tek a lang time. Sooner or later yuh ain’t gon have fuh go supermarket. Yuh gan get everything at de traffic light junction. Right now yuh could get yuh fruits, beverages and even car accessories. Is only a matter of time before yuh might be able to do banking at dem corner. Talk half and leff de rest fuh later.
then, on the other hand, seek to defend the country’s local content law which denies the rights of other Community nationals.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
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Saturday January 15, 2022
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Interview with a Forbes Burnham admirer
I got an email from someone who lives in Brooklyn, New York. He told me he worked closely with President Forbes Burnham, admired him and said he would always defend Burnham. He suggested the interview based on the column I wrote on Burnham last Thursday. He asked not to publish his name just the initials, BS. Well you know in common parlance what BS means? It so happened that my interview with BS turned out to be BS. Here it is FK - You said you have an explanation about the imported salmon Burnham was fond of. BS - Well as I wrote in
my email to you, it wasn’t imported. Burnham cultivated salmon and tilapia in aquaculture ponds in front of his house at Belfield. The salmons eat up the tilapias so Burnham had to eat salmon only. Guyanese never knew about the local salmon. FK - That is BS. You believe that? BS - It is true. FK - What about the desire for condensed milk that he requested on his death bed at the Georgetown Hospital? BS - You are wrong again. A dairy farmer in Canal Number One Polder secretly made condensed milk for Burnham.
Guyanese never knew about that. FK - That is BS. You believe that? BS - It is true. FK - Listen to this. This is definitely true not the BS you have been telling me. Burnham loved a foreign liquor named Chivas Regal. He drank it all the time. When guests came to Burnham’s bacchanalian abandonments, the barmen were told to throw Chivas Regal into XM-bottles to give the appearance that Burnham was patronising Guyanese rum. BS - That is news to me. FK - Burnham took the urine therapy advocacy of then Indian Prime Minister. Morarji Desai seriously and practiced urine drinking too. But scientists were divided on Desai’s panacea. They said the practice could sometime lead to throat infection. And Burnham died from throat infection. If you were close to him you had to know about that. BS - I will admit I knew about that. I believe urine therapy is medically sound.
Burnham died from throat cancer. I don’t believe it was related to him drinking his own urine. FK - I respect the Haitian culture of voodoo. I don’t believe I would ever utter a negative word on another culture though I am not sure which culture I belong to. My question is did Burnham practice voodoo culture? BS - Yes he did. I attended several voodoo rituals. FK - Did you see Burnham actually cutting off the head of a chicken at the ceremony? BS - Yes, I did. Be careful Freddie. They do that in Madras culture too. I understand your dad was a Madrasi, so you are one too. FK - I don’t know what I am. But I know people call me madrass. Anyway can we stick to Burnham? He is the subject not me. I want to ask you about Burnham appearing in high top purple boots and purple Nehru outfit at the North-South dialogue in 1982 in Cancun, Mexico. He sat next to President Ronald Reagan.
Why that kind of Frederick Kissoon outfit? BS - Again I will warn you to be careful about Such oligarchic culture is culture. What was wrong peculiar to Latin America, with that kind of sartorial and it went out of style in the 1970s. Burnham’s Latin appearance? FK - Nothing. But let me American style horse-back say in this interview I have riding took place in 1984 in not made any negative the British West Indies. remarks about the cultures of Anyway space will not allow the different races and won’t. for more than one more That is a line you do not question. Burnham rode his cross. But let’s move on. horse on public servants who Why would Burnham be were compelled to work at r i d i n g o n h o r s e b a c k Hope Estate. Who gave this throwing cigarettes and man a mandate to behave cassava sticks at poor people like a king? BS - I never knew in South Georgetown? Burnham behave liked a BS - Freddie I read that nonsense from you many king. FK - Where did he get his times. It is not true. The mandate to rule? Which security personnel that election he won? accompanied Burnham gave BS - He didn’t need to out the stuff not Burnham win elections. His ancestors himself. build Guyana as slaves and FK - Alright but still that thus people like Burnham is condescending. There must have been more were entitled to rule. FK - That is not only BS respectful ways to do such an but insane BS. act. (The views expressed in BS - Have you read Latin this article are those of the American history, Freddie? FK - Yes I have and I a u t h o r a n d d o n o t know what you are getting necessarily reflect the at. It is a terrible analogy. opinions of this newspaper.)
Saturday January 15, 2022
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Saturday January 15, 2022
Mother delivers baby in hire car at GPHC
Kherysha Pompey with her newborn baby girl.
On Thursday, around 10:57hrs, a single mother, Kherysha Pompey, gave birth to a baby girl in a hire car at the entrance to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). According to a press release issued by the hospital, before heading to the GPHC, Pompey who resides at 57, Craig Street, Campbellville, Georgetown, had gone to another medical institution seeking admission for delivery. She was refused and told that she was not ready for delivery and that she should go to the GPHC. Accompanied by
Rita, her neighbour, Pompey, writhing in pain, took a taxi to the GPHC. Upon arrival, Rita realised that Pompey’s water bag had broken and immediately started shouting for help. At the time, the taxi they were in had just approached the entrance of the facility. Immediately, a young female attendant, Sophia Clarke, who is new to the job, on hearing the plea for help, sprung into action, opened the car door and rendered assistance to the mother, noticing that the baby’s head was protruding. She was able to gently
grab the head of the baby to a s s i s t t h e m o t h e r. Meanwhile, a team of five doctors headed by Dr. Balram Doodnauth, arrived on the scene to complete the smooth process of delivering the baby. Both the healthy baby girl weighing 3kg, 200grams and mother are doing well and have been admitted to the GPHC’s maternity ward.
The smiling mother, who was clinging to her new born baby, expressed her gratitude to the attendant and team of doctors who came to her rescue. She is also very appreciative of the GPHC for rendering immediate assistance. The GPHC, in its statement, wished both mother and child the very best for a healthy and prosperous future.
Surge in COVID-19 cases challenges Region 2 health system The Anna Regina Township in Region 2.
By Romario Blair Region Two [PomeroonSupenaam] has seen a significant increase in active COVID-19 cases over the past few weeks. Chairman of the Region’s COVID-19 taskforce, Dr. Ranjeev Singh, revealed on Wednesday last, that the
region has recently recorded 230 active cases. Singh, who was at the time speaking at the RDC’s statutory meeting, accused persons within the region of being irresponsible, and attributed the increase of cases to the Omicron variant. (Continued on page 18)
Kaieteur News
Saturday January 15, 2022
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Logistics company donates GMSA worried about lack PPE to Education Ministry of leadership at GA-FDD - calls on Minister to ensure compliance with rules, regulations, and standards
From left: High Commission of Canada, Senior Trade Commissioner, Mr. Jake Thomas, Managing Director of Logistics Gy Express Inc, Mr. Randy Wade, Permanent Secretary, Mr. Alfred King and CGCC’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Treina Fiona Butts The Ministry of Education on Friday received a quantity of personal protective equipment from Logistics Gy Express Inc valued at $3,790,000. Permanent Secretary, Mr. Alfred King, received the items from the Managing Director of the company, Mr. R a n d y Wa d e , i n t h e Ministry’s boardroom. The donation included 180 bottles of sanitiser, 6,400 KN95 masks, and 1,150 surgical masks.
During brief remarks, Mr. King stated that the donation will help ensure the school environment is safe for students, teachers and supporting staff. He assured that the Ministry of Education is sparing no effort in ensuring persons are protected against COVID19. The donation was facilitated through the Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (CGCC) of which Logistics Gy Express Inc is a member.
Mr. Wade expressed his company’s commitment to providing support to protect youth and foster safe spaces for learning, particularly in light of the challenging times. He further noted that the health and safety of students and teachers is of paramount importance. Also present during the handing over were CGCC’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Treina Fiona Butts and High Commission of Canada, Senior Trade Commissioner, Mr. Jake Thomas.
RUBIS supports young residents at Joshua House (L-R) Gladys Accra of Joshua House at the presentation of items with Joylyn Johnson of RUBIS along with a selection of the furniture which was donated to the children’s home.
T
eamRUBIS recently donated furniture and household items to the Joshua House Children Centre, located at South C u m m i n g s b u rg , Georgetown. The Centre is home to some 25 children – 13 boys and 12 girls – between the ages of six and 17. During a visit to the Centre late last year, RUBIS Retail Accounts Executive, Joylyn Johnson observed the challenges the Centre was experiencing. As a result, RUBIS decided to commission the construction of chests of drawers and other supplies for the children to improve their standard of living. Mrs.
Johnson explained, ”It was evident that there was a dire need for furniture and household items. It is always an unfortunate occurrence that results in a child living in an orphanage or a home. It is therefore necessary that everything that is done contributes to a pleasant living experience. RUBIS Guyana Inc. conducted a needs assessment and concluded that its contribution should be long term in nature. Our efforts will go towards enhancing the environment and help in organising their storage.” Gladys Accra, Administrator/Supervisor at Joshua House, expressed appreciation to the management and staff of
RUBIS for the company’s very generous contribution of items valued at $1,260,000. She explained, “The 13 chests of drawers, 25 sheet sets, 2 full-length mirrors and 10 clothes baskets are all very much needed at the moment and will greatly assist us in making the children’s dormitories much more comfortable and organised. They will certainly enjoy using the items donated.” RUBIS has been a strong supporter of initiatives to support the development of young people across the country, including donations of school supplies and devices for online learning during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) has a crucial role in maintaining the nation’s health and well-being through speaking directly as a regulatory body on the importation of food, drugs and other like materials into Guyana. Over the last few years, the GA-FDD had made significant strides towards delivering on its mandate to the nation. This observation was made in a release issued yesterday by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), which noted that it has been monitoring the recent developments at the GAFDD and wishes to express its concerns. According to the release, the GMSA, through the Agro-Processing Sub-sector Chairman, has indicated that there is a seeming lack of leadership “as a result of the Director’s absence, which could call this quality reputation of GA-FDD into question, hinder progress and also raises concerns of transparency and accountability.”
GMSA President, Rafeek Khan The GMSA therefore, “wishes to urge that this department, which comes under the Ministry of Health, be empowered to carry out its mandate independently and effectively.” Added to this, the GMSA n o t e d t h a t , “ We a l s o requested that the relaxing of the rules mandated by law regarding the importation of food and other products into Guyana, be re-examined.” In this regard, the association noted that it has actively engaged the Ministry of Health to review and relax the said provisions made by law. However, “we are concerned that the agreement created, which allows for the importation of items on the basis of documentation from a non-
regulatory body in Florida, is not working as was initially intended since we continue to see questionable items imported into the country, based on documentation from the said body in Florida.” Added to this, the GMSA said that, “While we are cognisant of the many challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the issues associated with the global supply chain, we should not compromise on the nation’s health and wellbeing.” The Standards regarding the origin, labelling and naming of local distributors on labels where necessary is very clear. However, this standard is being flouted in some cases, while our sister CARICOM countries rigidly enforce this, the GMSA observed. These actions, it noted, are contradictory to the spirit of the recently passed Local Content Act. Moreover, the GMSA said that it is calling on the Minister of Health to ensure the compliance of rules, regulations, and standards and to empower the GAFDD to so do.
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Pedal cyclist dies after being impaled with steel rod The area where Troy Anthony Ponton lost his life
Saturday January 15, 2022
Man forced to walk half mile to bury son who died from COVID-19 - after being rejected by multiple drivers
A pedal cyclist who was reportedly returning home from bible class with his friend on Thursday evening was killed in a freak accident which saw him being impaled by a steel rod that was protruding from a culvert at Falcon Drive, Industrial Site, Eccles, Greater Georgetown. He has been identified as Troy Anthony Ponton of 1939, Fourteenth Avenue, Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara. According to police, Ponton fell into the culvert sometime after 22:00hrs. He and his friend, identified as Brenton Rodney, had reportedly left a bible class and were heading home on their bicycles. Rodney recalled that he was riding a short distance in front of Ponton when he heard a loud sound. When he turned around Ponton was not behind him. He called out for him but reportedly got no response. Rodney dismounted his bicycle and walked back to see where his friend had disappeared to, only to realise that he had fallen into the culvert. He found Ponton standing in an upright position with a steel rod protruding through his nose. Rodney related that he then alerted Ponton’s relatives
The father making the half-mile journey to bury his son.
Dead: Troy Anthony Ponton before calling an ambulance. The police were also alerted. When the ambulance arrived, medical professionals pronounced Ponton dead and his body was removed from the culvert and placed on the road as the police awaited undertakers to take it away. By this time the man’s grieving relatives had arrived at the scene. In a cell phone recorded video seen my Kaieteur News, one relative identified as Ponton’s brother, was seen kneeling down beside his body and embracing it as he wept. Investigators have learnt that the steel rod that killed
Ponton was located at the second cross corner along Falcon Drive. They noted that the culvert was left unfinished by a company. It is believed that Ponton might have rode onto a pave and accidently rode into the culvert and fell on the protruding steel rod. Others believe that he might have been blinded by vehicle lights and did not see the open culvert. Family members however, believe that the company that left the culvert unfinished should be held responsible because they failed to place warning signs at the location.
A father was forced to walk half of a mile on Thursday to bury his oneand-a-half-year-old son who died from COVID-19 complications at the Mabaruma Hospital located in Region One. Kaieteur News was told that the reason behind this was because many drivers had refused to give him a
‘drop’. This newspaper understands that they were fearful to offer their service after they heard that the baby had died from COVID-19. After being rejected, the man decided to pick up the coffin that contained his son’s body and fetched it all the way to the cemetery. According to residents of Mabaruma, the journey is
one that usually takes about 30 minutes of brisk walking to complete. They related that witnessing the man making the journey was a heart-rending one for them. In the Ministry’s most recent COVID-19 update, it was noted that among the latest victims of the deadly virus was a 14-month old baby of Region One.
The coffin being lowered into the ground.
Kaieteur News
Saturday January 15, 2022
PAGE 15
14-month-old baby among SWAT member accused 6 latest COVID-19 fatalities of killing Orin Boston, granted bail
A 14-month-old baby boy from Region One is among six individuals who died of COVID-19, over a three-day period (January 11 to 13). This is according to information released yesterday by the Ministry of Health. The latest deaths have moved the country’s COVID-19 death toll to 1,081. In addition to the baby, according to the Ministry, the fatalities are that of three women, a 58-year-old from Region Three, an 83-yearold and a 77-year-old from Region Six and two men – a 94-year-old from Region Four and a 52-year-old from Region Six. Meanwhile, in its latest COVID-19 dashboard, the Health Ministry recorded 865 new infections within the last 24-hour period, taking the total number of confirmed cases to 49,056. A breakdown of new cases per region shows that Region Four leads with 532 new cases, Region Three with 157, Region Six with 67, Region 10 with 44, Region Two with 38, Region
Five with 25 and Regions One and Nine with one each. The dashboard also shows that 15 patients are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit, 145 people are in
institutional isolation, 8,835 are in home isolation and seven are in institutional quarantine. To date, a total of 38,980 people have recovered from the virus.
A constable attached to the Guyana Police Force’s SWAT unit was yesterday slapped with a manslaughter charge for the killing of Essequibo Coast businessman, Orin Boston, four months ago. The accused, who has been identified as 32-year-old Sherwin Peters of Amelia’s Ward, Linden, appeared via Zoom from the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Esther Sam. Peters appeared in court without the representation of an attorney. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which alleges that on September 15, 2021, at Dartmouth, Essequibo Coast, in the Essequibo Magisterial district, he killed Boston. The accused made an application for bail but, given the seriousness of the offence and the fact that a life was lost, this was objected to by the police prosecution. Bail, nevertheless, was subsequently granted by Magistrate Sam in the sum of $1 million. The case was then adjourned to February 1, 2022. Kaieteur News understands that around 04:00hrs on the day in question, the accused was conducting a police operation for ‘illegal substances’ at Boston’s Dartmouth, Essequibo Coast home. Boston, who was reportedly still on his bed at the time of the shooting, was shot once to the chest by a high calibre rifle. An autopsy report which followed revealed that Boston died as a result of a gunshot injury to the left side chest.
Killed: Orin Boston The killing could not have been justified by police thus the rank was placed under close arrest. In protest to the shooting residents had mounted protect action on the Essequibo Coast. On Thursday last, four months after the shooting, the Director of Public Prosecution recommended that the rank be charged with manslaughter, making it the biggest development thus far. In the meantime, the man’s family on the Essequibo Coast remains optimistic that justice will prevail. Fiona Boston, wife of the deceased, said that the past four months have been challenging for her and her two children. She said, “It took a long time, but I am glad that everything coming to light… when I heard the news, I was speechless. I didn’t know how to express myself. I was just there. It is something that I wanted to see for a long time, the case hasn’t been concluded yet, but there is still a greater chance for justice to prevail.”
Issues that affect persons with disabilities highlighted Judge rules Senior Magistrate at Town Hall meeting acted perversely, quashes decision Brazilians placed on bail for cocaine charge…
In a historic High Court ruling yesterday, Justice Sandil Kissoon, quashed Senior Magistrate Alex Moore’s decision to grant two Brazilian men bail on a possession of narcotics charge, when he ruled that the decision was not only irrational but perverse. The defendants, Andre Luiz Pereira, 31, and 64year-old Salem Nobrega De Alencar, made their first court appearance on July 22, 2021, before Senior Magistrate Moore. The men were charged with illegal entry and for trafficking 453kgs of cocaine. Senior Magistrate Moore had placed them on $3M bail each on the cocaine charge and $50,000 bail each for the illegal entry charge. According to reports, the cocaine was found after the plane the men were travelling in crashed on May 20, 2021 at Orealla, Region Six. T h e M a g i s t r a t e ’s decision to grant bail to the Brazilian nationals had caused widespread criticism. The Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, had later penned a letter in
The virtual meeting in session on Thursday.
Senior Magistrate Alex Moore. which he expressed his view on the matter and stated that the Magistrate’s decision was highly irregular and not in accordance with the relevant legal principles. He even indicated that the State would challenge some of these decisions. Following through on his intentions, on August 18, 2021, the Attorney General filed a Fixed Date Application seeking a number of orders including, Orders of certiorari quashing the decisions of Senior Magistrate Moore, in granting bail to two Brazilian nationals on the narcotics and illegal entry
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC. charge. Nandlall was supported by the prosecutor in the matter, Inspector Orin Joseph, and several investigating ranks who submitted affidavits to overturn the Magistrate’s decision. Yesterday in a statement, Nandlall noted that this is perhaps the first time the State challenged a Magistrate’s decision to grant bail. Pereira was represented by attorney-at-law, Nigel Hughes, while the Attorney General appeared on behalf of the Commissioner of (Continued on page 16)
Access to public buildings and business establishments, was among the several concerns raised by persons living with disabilities during a virtual Town Hall meeting on Thursday that was organised by the Guyana Council of Organisation for Persons with Disabilities. At the meeting, which was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Subject Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud spoke of the diverse technical vocational training programmes, including ICT, garment construction, mobility and guidance counselling targeting 600 persons in a hybrid model of delivery, among other programmes. Dr. Persaud noted that the first batch of graduates from the training programme received electronic tablets as well as support aids. Graduates of the first batch said the programme was life changing as they were
motivated to further their studies. Some said they were excited about their first-time experience with ICT. With over 80 persons in attendance, the interactive and candid session, not only heard concerns about the access to public buildings and other businesses, but about the overall treatment of persons living with disabilities by the public and access to education and employment opportunities. Minister Persaud committed to more engagements, noting that persons living with disabilities could continue to access support and assistive aid through the ministry and begin micro enterprising through a revolving fund managed by the ministry and the Small Business Bureau. She also shared plans about the centre currently under construction in the Mahaica Hospital compound, which will cater for the training and other needs for persons living with disabilities.
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Saturday January 15, 2022
Kaieteur News
Judge rules Senior Magistrate acted perversely... PENPAL
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From page 15 Police. After hearing detailed submissions from the Attorney General and Hughes, yesterday the court delivered a historic ruling granting both (a) and (b) of the Fixed Date Application that was filed by the Attorney General. Justice Kissoon granted the following: an order of certiorari, quashing the decision of Moore to grant bail to the Brazilian Nationals and a conservatory order staying and/or suspending the decision of Senior Magistrate Moore, in granting bail to the defendants. In handing down his ruling, Justice Kissoon stated that Senior Magistrate Moore did not satisfy the conditions for granting bail under section 94 of the Narcotics Act, Chapter 10:10, given that the Magistrate took into account factors relating to the offender
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and not the offence as is required by the said section 94. He noted that there was no basis, fact or circumstances existing or apparent nor any principle of law or consideration relevant or applicable in the circumstances of the matter to warrant or justify the decision of Senior Magistrate Moore to grant bail. The Judge stated that the Magistrate committed grave errors in the interpretation and application of Section 94.
Justice Kissoon held that Senior Magistrate Moore quantified erroneous and irrelevant considerations which had no bearing on the issue and matter before him. Moreover, he also held that the decision of the Magistrate to grant bail was in the circumstances erroneous in law, without unlawful basis, plainly irrational, untenable, perverse, and made without jurisdiction as it fell outside the bound of what can be
construed as reasonable in the Wednesday session. Justice Kissoon concluded that the decision of the Magistrate to admit bail was not a judicial one. Justice Kissoon had granted an interim order suspending the Brazilian Nationals bail pending the outcome of the matter. However, with his new ruling, the Magistrate’s decision to grant bail has been quashed.
Surge in COVID-19 cases challenges... From page 12 Singh went on to say, “Presently we have 230 active cases, and we are going to get a whole lot, because at the moment we have over 200 PCR tests pending… The Omicron variant spreads like wildfire.” According to the councillor, residents need to adopt a responsible attitude, and adhere to the COVID-19 protocols. He noted too that a complete lockdown is not the solution. He went on to say, “people are of the view that a shutdown will help to flatten the curve. There are measures in place to flatten the curve.
COVID is our responsibility. It is up to us to protect ourselves. The government’s responsibility is to make services available. We are increasing testing, and we have sufficient vaccines available at multiple sites across the region.” As he touched on the vaccination status in the Region, Singh revealed that just 65 percent of the region’s eligible population has received their first dose. This, he said, is disappointing when compared to other regions. “In Region Two, we have less hinterland areas as compared to Regions One and Nine and
the first dose vaccination rates for those regions are in the 80 percent. We are at 65 percent first dose vaccination when most of our population is on the coastland, and vaccines are easily available,” said Dr. Ranjeev. The Region’s health system, according to Singh, is already severely challenged, with 38 staff members being positive. “Thirty-eight staff members have tested positive… The health sector is holding on by a string. We’re still hopeful though, because over 400 came out for their first dose on Friday last,” he added.
Mexican company sues State over halted parking... From page 8 project had received a considerable amount of rejection from the civil and business society. The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) had supported the call for the revocation of the parking meters contract and the body even encouraged its partners and members in the business community to maintain their protest efforts until the contract was fully revoked.
Kaieteur News reported that despite the protest actions the meters were active in January 2017. However, this then triggered some of the largest non-political protests in the city; citizens had formed an organisation called the Movement Against Parking Meters (MAPM). Following the resistance, the then Government intervened and suspended the bylaws which had paved the way for the implementation of
the parking meters - this later forced a halt to the project. In January 2018, a ‘Parking Meter Renegotiation Committee’ by City Hall proposed a reduction in the parking fee from $500 per hour to $150 per hour. The City Council later approved amendments to the bylaws, and held discussions. However, the government had not given approval for the project to recommence.
Guyana Cybercrime law fails to... From page 5 high versus low power distance, and high versus low uncertainty avoidance describe this misaligned norm. There are several doctrines for improving cyber security. These doctrines include prevention, risk management, and deterrence through accountability. In Guyana’s case, the Cyber Crime Bill (2018) also fails to prioritize the nation’s economic and security concerns. Further analysis demonstrates the debilitating conditions within which organizations, such as the media, operate in the country. Consequently, policy-makers must take a holistic approach and create a homogeneous environment for public-private partnerships to promote economic growth and national security. Areas of Improvement: The applicability of the Tallinn Manuals to South Africa’s national policies. The country attempts to address the issue of cyber-
crime by developing similar cybercrime laws. However, Ramluckan (2019) identifies the criticisms of the Cybercrime Bill and the limited focus on national organizations and penalties for violations. Specifically, the inapplicability of the jus in bello and jus ad bellum to the country’s laws and progress in this domain. As a result, the narrow focus on misaligned concerns does not adequately secure the country. The Working Group on Cybercrime focuses more on the international corporation, which member countries furnish into cybercrime laws. Guyana’s Cybercrime Bill conforms to the group’s intentions but extends it to include articles that violate ethical principles such as civil liberty. National lawmakers miss the importance of cyber security strategies, which support national laws through a uniform framework. The Doctrine of Deterrence Through Accountability affects desired
behaviour and considers accepted norms. For Guyana to foster a superior vision that is furnished based on national, international, and sovereign cyber security needs, there must be a socio-technical systems approach to improving education, policy, and technology. Cyber security is an essential element in a nation-state’s national security strategy because it impacts citizens’ lives in everyday activities. Guyana’s Cyber Crime Bill (2018) begins to address the cyber security challenges, such as cybercrime. However, the Bill includes articles that are not consistent with the intentions of the Working Group on Cybercrime and international norms. The Bill fails to address the importance of civil liberties as an element of national cyber security strategy; besides, it does not adequately address the myriad of challenges – present and future. Thank you, Dr. Dustin Fraser
Saturday January 15, 2022
Kaieteur News
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Collective efforts required to... From page 4 considering vast resources are being utilized to ensure that all eligible Guyanese are vaccinated. The Federation is aware that a great deal of misinformation still exists in respect of the efficacy of the vaccines. However, such sentiments, we consider, are disproven given several studies and
reports which have utilised real world data. At this time, when vaccinations give our people a real chance to avoid infection or to reduce the chances of serious illness, we urge all to be fully inoculated. Currently, the FITUG urges all Guyanese to be careful. We encourage persons to mask up when leaving their homes and to ensure they
sanitize regularly while avoiding large congregations. Indeed, they are several simple steps which can prevent us from becoming the next unwitting victim. But it requires everyone to play their role. Regards, Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana
Saturday January 15, 2022
Saturday January 15, 2022
ICC 2022 U-19 World Cup...
Sri Lanka beat Scotland by 40 runs at Everest On day blessed with glorious Sun at the Everest ground on Camp Road, Sri Lanka led by a magnificent run-a-ball 85 decorated with three four and four sixes from Sakuna Nidarshana Liyanage, defeated Scotland by 40 runs in the opening round of the ICC 2022 U-19 World Cup yesterday at Everest. Sri Lanka were dismissed for 218 in 45.2 overs as Chamindu Wickramasinghe 28, Sadisha Rajapaksa 24 and Raveen de Silva 30, all got starts. Sean Fischer-Keogh (3-56), Jack Jarvis (2-27) and Oliver Davidson (2-50) were
Dunith Wellalage, Sakuna Nidarshana Liyanage the main wicket takers for Scotland who could only manage 178 in 48.4 overs.
Jarvis scored an accomplished 55 with three fours and three sixes, but only Tomas Mackintosh (19) Charlie Tear (17) and Oliver Davidson (15) and Samuel Elstone (13) of the remaining batsmen reached double figures. Dunith Wellalage captured the first five-wicket haul of the tournament with 5-27 from nine overs and got support from Shevon Daniel who took 2-16 to help the Island side to victory. Uganda oppose Ireland today from 09:00 as the curtains come down on the Guyana leg of the tournament. (Sean Devers)
Saturday January 15, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A partner or colleague might be going through some changes right now, causing you to wonder if you have a future with this person. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) At this time you might be in the space where you tend to doubt concepts and attitudes that you've accepted all your life. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Dreams and visions might give rise to the desire to be especially artistic and creative today, Gemini. Ideas for new artistic projects could be popping in and out of your head all day, and you might go into a panic doubting that you'll ever have the time to make any of your ideas a reality. CANCER(June21–July22) Successes over the past several weeks, along with an increase in money, might give rise to the desire to improve your living situation, Cancer. You might have doubts, however, as to how best to go about doing it. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Stress from whatever work pressures you've been experiencing might cause you to feel a bit under the weather. Yet you're probably unwilling to take some time off because you're too concerned about finishing, Leo. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Blocks and obstacles that you may have reached with regard to your projects might cause you to wonder if you have what it takes to get them done at all, Virgo.
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LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Although almost everything in your life seems to be going well, Libra, today you just might find yourself in a bit of a panic. You might have a temporary fit of fear that your luck won't last. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. Today you might find yourself at a loss as to how to proceed with a particular task or project in which you're involved, Scorpio. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Something may be troubling a family member, Sagittarius, and this person doesn't seem inclined to talk about it. Your intuition seems to be temporarily blocked, so you can't figure it out for yourself. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Today you might feel as if you're living in a fog, Capricorn. Some interesting but puzzling news may come your way today. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Unexpected premonitions and gut feelings might prove too strong for comfort, Aquarius, especially if they sense upcoming events that aren't all that pleasant. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A goal that you've been working toward for a long time and in which you've placed a lot of hope and confidence, may suddenly seem in doubt today, Pisces.
Novak Djokovic: Australia to detain tennis star today after visa cancelled BBC News - Novak Djokovic is set to be detained yesterday after Australia cancelled his visa for a second time, in a row over his right to remain in the country unvaccinated. The decision on “health and good order” grounds means he faces deportation and a three-year visa ban. Djokovic’s lawyers called the decision “patently irrational” and will appeal. The men’s tennis number one is still scheduled to play in the Australian Open in Melbourne on Monday. “Today I exercised my power... to cancel the visa held by Mr Novak Djokovic on health and good order grounds, on the basis that it was in the public interest to do so,” Immigration Minister Alex Hawke said in a statement. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that the deci-
sion followed “careful consideration”. Alluding to the heavy criticism his government has faced for allowing the unvaccinated player into Australia, Mr Morrison said: “Australians have made many sacrifices during this pandemic, and they rightly expect the result of those sacrifices to be protected.” At an emergency late-night court hearing shortly after the decision was announced on Friday, Judge Anthony Kelly ruled that Djokovic cannot be deported while the appeal proceedings are happening. An appeal hearing is expected tomorrow. The judge also said the government could detain Djokovic after he meets immigration officials in Melbourne this morning. However, he will be allowed to go to his lawyers’ offices to prepare his case ahead of tomorrow’s hearing. An initial hearing will
be held today at 10:15 local time (23:15 GMT yesterday). Djokovic’s legal team called the minister’s decision to cancel the visa “patently irrational”. Citing a government document with more details on why it was revoked, Djokovic’s lawyer, Nicholas Wood, said it was not because he is a danger to the public, but because “he will excite anti-vax sentiment”. Although Djokovic is not vaccinated, he has not actively promoted anti-vax disinformation. However, Australian anti-vaxxers have been using the hashtag #IStandWithDjokovic on social media. Mr Wood added that the minister had chosen to “remove a man of good standing” from Australia and “impair” his future career over anti-vaccination comments Djokovic had made in 2020. The nine-time Australian Open winner was hoping to defend his title next week, which if he won, would make him the most successful male tennis player in history with a record 21 Grand Slam titles. For the moment, Djokovic remains in the Australian Open draw and is due to face fellow Serb Miomir Kecmanovic on Monday - the first day of the tournament. Djokovic’s visa was first revoked shortly after his arrival in Melbourne on 6 January, after Australian border Force officials said he had “failed to provide appropriate evidence” to receive a vaccine exemption. His initial announcement that he was coming to play in the Open prompted a backlash from some Australians, who have lived under long and strict Covid lockdowns, because it was unclear if he could meet the country’s strict entry rules. Melbourne in particular was hard bit by lockdowns, enduring 262 days under heavy restrictions last year. Djokovic was detained for days at an immigration hotel, before his visa was reinstated by Judge Kelly, who ordered his release, ruling that border officials ignored correct procedure when he arrived. But yesterday evening in Melbourne, Mr Hawke again cancelled Djokovic’s visa under separate powers in Australia’s Migration Act. The act allows him to deport anyone he deems a potential risk to “the health, safety or good order of the Australian community”, however Djokovic can still appeal this.
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GCB Congratulates Year End Football Sir Clive Hubert Lloyd 2021 and its Success Letter to the Sports Editor...
The President, Executives and Members of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) have extended heartiest congratulations to Sir Clive Hubert Lloyd on being conferred with the prestigious title of knighthood. “This award is most deserving as Sir Clive has contributed immensely to the promotion of cricket nationally, regionally and internationally as a player, captain, match referee and outstanding ambassador of this noble game,” an official release from the GCB informed. “His conduct has always been exemplary and he served as a great role model for cricketers throughout the world. Sir Clive played 110 test matches and scored 7515 runsat an average of 46.67. Also, he played 87 ODI’s and scored 1977 runsat an average 39.5.His crowning moment was lifting the championship trophy in the inaugural World Cup in 1975when he scored a match winning 102 runs.” “The GCB congratulates one of the most successful captains in the game of cricket. This great son of the soil has indeed served
Clive Lloyd - Sir Clive Hubert Lloyd Guyana and West Indies with pride and dignity.
Congratulations Sir Clive,” the release concluded.
Dear Sports Editor, The year 2021 concluded with a bang when the Guyana Football Federation/Kashif & Shanghai/Women Football Association completed their yearend football tournaments in glorious fashion. Mr. Editor these three (3) tournaments were incident free and sticking to the Covid 19 Guidelines, it was only in the Finals of the Futsal that we saw breach in the Protocol Guidelines with the attendance which was unavoidable, social distancing was not there but all throughout the tournament all Protocols were observed and as the saying goes one (1) swallow don’t make a summer. However, as a football fan and sports enthusiast, I would like to look at an issue that raised its ugly head recently in the media. The main opposition party is trying to score cheap political points by mixing up Sports and Politics, Mr. Editor they have other major issues to deal with in their party but they have dragged in the wonderful game of football in their tangle. They are accusing the Government of ignoring the breaches of Covid protocols at the Futsal Final which we all know is a fabrication. Mr. Editor I am a man about, I have visited the malls in Guyana and it is constantly
packed to capacity but no word of condemnation is being said about that, remember Georgetown is the opposition strong hold and they don’t want to fluster their supporters by condemning their behavior, the mini buses are also filled on a daily basis, the markets are packed with people shopping, the supermarkets are also filled yet the main opposition has not commented on such. But because the organisers are aligned to the Government they get this blow below the belt. Maybe this is personal, remember the accuser and the organisers are all Lindeners, there may be more in the mortar than the pestle. As a perquisite to hosting of this tournament, one of the main criteria is that every player, official and spectator must be vaccinated before they entered the venue. I was at almost all the matches and the task force were at all the games enforcing with strict rigidity the protocols. Approximately 1000 players, dozens of officials and thousands of spectators participated in the 3 tournaments with every one of them being vaccinated. By hosting the tournament, it encouraged hundreds of persons to be vaccinated a policy that is being implemented all over the world, in the developed countries, in the third world countries also and in the not too developed countries. Hosting of such tournaments assisted in ensuring that the population entered the safety zone by being vaccinated. Mr. Editor, one notable Member of Parliament, a prominent figure in society was in Linden discouraging persons from taking the vaccine. He was on a campaign to discredit the procedure. Instead of encouraging persons he was putting doubts
in their mind. That is proof of double standards. I saw in the Tuesday edition of the Daily Kaieteur News What Peeping Tom said and he was spot on, no one could have done a better job in explaining the predicament that the organisers were faced with. Mr. Editor, the evidence is clear that people are starved for clean, incident free and safe entertainment and they went in their numbers to be vaccinated so they could be part of the entertainment. Football fans are aware of the risk involved in being in a crowded area, hence they had on their mask along with getting vaccinated. If the opposition was in Government I am sure they would have implemented such rigidity in ensuring that the population was safe from the deadly virus and it baffles me that these same officials could and would deter persons from taking the vaccine. Politics as they say is a strange career to be in, today it right and tomorrow it wrong. Kudos to the GFF and K&S Organisation for putting on a great show for us the entertainment starved population for the year end activities. The mere fact that they went out in their thousands is testimony of what I alluded to. In closing, I urge the political parties to come together and see how we can prevent the Covid pandemic to be constrained from spreading, not to use a specific purpose which the opposition hopes will gave them cheap political points, or attempt to attack some specific persons whom have done great for Guyana in their specific area of expertise. Have a pleasant day and let wisdom prevail. Thank you, Henry Pestano.
STSC small goal football set for tomorrow The South Turkeyen Sports Committee will be hosting a 3-a-side small goal football competition tomorrow at C Field 2 Block Sophia commencing at 07:00hrs. Entrance fee is $3,000 and the teams set to battle for supremacy are: North Sophia, A, B, C, D and E fields. At stake are trophies and cash prizes donated by Johnny Barnwell, Trophy Stall, Wayne Forde President
of the GFF and Andy Payne. Meanwhile, Trevor Solomon team defeated Godfrey Blair team 1-0 when the South Turkeyen Sports Committee held a 3-a-side small goal football competition on Sunday last at Vryheid’s Lust. Qunicy Reid scored from the penalty mark to hand Solomon the trophy and was named the MVP. Trophies and medals were donated by Andy Payne.
Saturday January 15, 2022
Crown Mining Supply golf tourney on today The Lusignan Golf Club will be hosting its first golf tournament for the year today when the Crown Mining competition tees off at 12: 30hrs. At the launching yesterday afternoon along with the display of prizes and trophies, Crown Mining also featured its new line of TOLSEN power tools and construction equipment. A sample of these products will be on display at today’s tournament.
Executive Manager Nadine Persaud handed over the sponsor check to LGC Treasurer Maxim Mangra, and expressed the company’s commitment to continuing its almost decade long partnership with the Lusignan Golf Club. This partnership has seen the company and its executives play a major role in the affairs of the golf club. LGC VP Paton George thanked the Crown Mining team on behalf of the manage-
ment and members for its outstanding contributions to local business affairs. The format is Medal play over 18 holes and the three flights are: Players 9 and under handicap, 10-18 handicap and 19-36 handicap. Prizes will be given to the first position in each flight based on net scores, Nearest to flag-#4, Longest drive-#5, Best net overall- First, Second and Third Best gross.
GCB 2nd Trial match at Albion (day 1)...
Chanderpaul (85) Griffith (57) share unbroken 1st Wk Stand
At the close of the first day of the GCB’s second four-day trial match at Albion, Keemo Paul’s X1 were 143 without loss in reply to Leon Johnson’s X1 first innings of 121 all out to go into today’s second day enjoying a lead of 22 runs. In match used the select the Guyana Harpy Eagles for the regional first Class season which starts next month, a magnificent unfinished century opening stand between Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Trevon Griffith highlighted the day’s play. The lefthanded pair dominated the bowlers and by stumps Chanderpaul was not out on 85 from 129 balls and 147 minutes and struck nine boundaries, while Griffith’s unbeaten 57 included five fours and lasted 100 balls and 147 minutes. Earlier, Johnson’s X1 opted to bat on a track with assistance for the spinners and Chanderpaul Hemraj, who missed the first game due to fittness issues, made 21 and added 26 for the opening stand with Kevlon Anderson before Hemraj was removed by pacer Clinton Pestano. Keon Joseph then removed Anderson (4) a run later before Johnson and Sachin Singh added 96 for the third wicket before Junior Sinclair removed both in the space of six runs. Johnson’s 33 included three fours, while Singh also reached the boundary twice in his 32 and after the pair was separated only Kevin Sinclair of the
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Kaieteur News
Tagenarine Chanderpaul made an unbeaten 85 at Albion yesterday. other batsmen with 13 got to double figures. Junior Sinclair captured 518 from 11 overs, while Anthony Adams had 3-16 and
Joseph 2-6 off six overs. Today is the second day and play is scheduled to commence at 9am. (Sean Devers)
Badri Prasad Memorial T20 resumes tomorrow in Wakenaam The Wakenaam Cricket Committee/Badri Prashad Memorial T20 competition is set to resume tomorrow at G Square Cavaliers ground in Belle Plaine. G Square Cavaliers will take
on Sans Souci Jaguars from 09:00hrs, while Sans Souci will face Zeelandia from 13:00hrs. Teams are allotted 30 minutes grace period.
ICC U19Men’s World Cup..
Wyllie (86*) propels Australia to six-wicket win over WI in opening fixture By Zaheer Mohamed An attractive unbeaten 86 from Teague Wyllie guided Australia to a six-wicket win over West Indies when the ICC U19 Men’s World Cup commenced yesterday. Despite being given a let off early in his innings, Wyllie batted with maturity as he struck eight fours off 129 balls to anchor the chase. West Indies U19 opted to bat at Providence and were put on the backfoot early on as pacer Tom Whitney removed Matthew Nandu (00) and Teddy Bishop (05), both caught at the wicket by Tobias Snell before opener Shaqkere Parris (04) was trapped lbw to William Salzmann as West Indies U19 were reduced to 12-3 in the sixth over. However, skipper Ackeem Auguste and Rivaldo Clarke stabilised the innings fairly with a fighting third wicket stand of 95. Auguste executed a number of brilliant shots either side of the pitch, while Clarke supported him well. However, their resistance ended when Clarke mistimed a drive to mid-off and was taken off Nivethan Radhakrishnan for 37 which came off 42 balls and contained four fours. Giovonte Depeiza fell lbw to Cooper Connolly without scoring before the Auguste was taken at deep square leg attempting a slog sweep for a well played 57. He faced 42 balls and struck four fours. Following his dismissal, the West Indies U19 lost Anderson Mahase (06) and Johann Layne (12), both falling to Radhakrishnan. All-rounder McKenny Clarke propped up the total somewhat with a brisk 29 off 39 balls including two fours
Teague Wyllie plays through the off-side. (Zaheer Mohamed photo) and three sixes while Shiva Sankar was dismissed for seven as the West Indies U19 were bowled out for 169 in 40.1 overs. Connolly was the pick of the bowlers with 3-17, while Whitney claimed 3-20 and Radhakrishnan 3-48. Opener Wyllie got things going for the visitors with an exquisite back foot punch for four off Sankar before pacer Johann Layne provided West Indies U19 with the breakthrough when he sent back Corey Miller, bowled off the inside edge without scoring in the fourth over with the score on six. Isaac Higgins followed a wide delivery from Sankar and was caught behind by Rivaldo Clarke as Australia U19 lost their second wicket with the score on 21. Wyllie continued to look positive and pulled pacer McKenny Clarke to the midwicket boundary before skipper Cooper Connolly picked up another boundary following a terrible misfield at point. Wyllie was dropped off spinner Ojane Amory, a simple return catch when on 21 as
the home team fielding proved below par. Connolly drove spinner Anderson Mahase through mid-off for another boundary and along with Wyllie steadied the chase well as they added 53 for the third wicket before Connolly was bowled by Onaje Amory for 23 off 31 balls with four fours. Wyllie continued to gather runs on both sides of the wicket and soon reached his fifty with a single off Matthew Nandu. Wyllie and Nivethan Radhakrishnan took their team closer to victory with a fourth wicket stand of 75 before Radhakrishnan was taken low down at cover off Nadu for 31 with two fours off 58 balls. However, Wyllie and Campbell Kellaway (10*) took their team to victory with an unbeaten fifth wicket stand of 21. Australia replied with 1704 in 44.5 overs. Layne, Sankar, Amory and Nandu took one wicket each. Scores: WI U19 169; AUS U19 (44.5/50 ov) 170/4. Result: Aust U19 won by 6 wickets (with 31 balls remaining).
West Indies skipper Ackeem Auguste plays an off drive. (Getty Images)
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Future Express Taxi Service supports Wiltshire dominoes Future Express Taxi Service of Norton Street has supported the Mark Wiltshire birth anniversary dominoes competition which is set for tomorrow at Transport Sports Club. Entrance fee is $15,000 and the winning team will take home a trophy and $180,000, runner up a trophy and $75,000, third place a trophy and $35,000 and fourth place a trophy and $20,000. The female player that shared the first love and the player in the final will be given $5,000 each, while the female player that shared the first double love will receive
Saturday January 15, 2022
Kaieteur News
Omar Daniels (left) presents the trophy to Mark Wiltshire. $5,000 and a hamper. The first three teams that register will be required to
pay $12,000 and all GNDA rules will be in effect. Action commences at 13:00hrs.
GCF under-12 C/Ship to feature over 30 youngsters
Omar Shariff
Anaya Lall
Nicholas Zhang
A total of 12 girls and 23 boys have registered to compete in today’s National Under-12 rapid chess championships, sponsored by DeSinco Trading Limited and organised by the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF). The body is set to have a new junior champion this year as Kyle Couchman, who won the most recent edition of the event in 2020, is now too old to compete. The open event is expected to be keenly contested with all the top boys having experience in the Junior rapid World Cup. The female category is also highly anticipated with the likes of players such as Anaya Lall, who competed in
last year’s World Chess Championship for Persons with Disabilities. Vice President of the GCF, Anand Ragunath, in a release to the press mentioned that, “The building blocks were set two years ago and with most of the top players engaged in high level training, the quality of play is expected to be intense. The top players will have it tough as several youngsters are now exposed to training and any of them can emerge victorious. The younger players also pose a threat as they too have acquired the skills necessary to win games but don’t have the experience as yet.” He continued, “This tour-
nament sets the stage to showcase the youngest players development over the last two years. FIDE instructor Davion Mars and IM Atanu Lihari have worked with these players for an extend time and U12s chess is simply at a higher level than we have been accustomed to.” Games are set to begin from 2pm sharp today on the tornelo.com platform. Prizes will be awarded for the top three (3) players. The Best Under-8 and Under-10 players will also be rewarded. The tournament will be supervised by FIDE Arbiter John Lee.
Saturday January 15, 2022
Kaieteur News
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