Kaieteur News

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Tuesday Edition January 18, 2022 - Vol. 15 No. 03

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 97,829

After three years of pumping oil, Guyana still without capacity to do environmental tests - US company setting stage to step in, location already acquired

Minister apologies after man walks half mile to bury infant son US$6M to repair Cops find stolen car at Happy Demerara Harbour Bridge Acres workshop

Lawyers want judicial review of Essequibo businessman's killing Laparkan fire reportedly started where dangerous oil chemicals were stored

es u n i t n o c t s e t o r The p change to . t c for a r t n o c s ’ l i b o ExxonM

Suriname got their citizens on the drill ships learning how to drill holes looking for oil while Jagdeo have Guyanese pushing their hands in crab holes to provide crab services. Tada! @11:00hrs on Kaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5FM

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Kaieteur News

Laparkan fire reportedly started where dangerous oil chemicals were stored

Tuesday January 18, 2022

Scenes of the inferno.

By Wayne Lyttle The popular Laparkan Shipping Company storage bond and the storage bond of another shipping company i d e n t i f i e d a s Tr o p i c a l Shipping Company were destroyed by a massive inferno, which started just before midnight on Sunday.

The bonds are located on the premises of the Guyana National Shipping Corporation (GNIC) Wharf at Lombard and Broad Streets, Charlestown, Georgetown.

According to reports, hundreds of millions of dollars worth in vehicles and other imported items which were stored in containers, barrels and boxes were completely destroyed by the blaze.

Several companies, as well as private citizens use Laparkan to import items.

Speaking to members of the media, Commissioner of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Godfrey

Statia said, “As far as we could see, the entire commercial bond has been burnt so we are now taking an inventory of what has been burnt. Some vehicles also that were on the wharf have also been burnt up, so we will be doing an inventory.”

Statia pointed out that the GRA is also inquiring about the insurance of the vehicles, which includes Wranglers, Audis, BMWs, Fielder Wa g o n s a n d o t h e r s .

According to reports, it was difficult to remove the vehicles since all of the keys were locked away in a safe.

Kaieteur News learnt that the majority of the vehicles were bought by private citizens. Statia said that GRA will facilitate the clearance of the vehicles and other cargo as soon as possible.

The authorities did manage to save some of the vehicles.

Statia made it clear, however, that the incident (Continued on page 18)

Tuesday January 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

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After three years of pumping oil, Guyana still without capacity to do environmental tests -US Company setting stage to step in, location already acquired

F

ollowing a review of the facilities and equipment here, it has been found that Guyana's laboratories do not have the capability to do proper environmental tests associated with the oil and gas sector. This was noted in E x x o n M o b i l ' s C o m p r e h e n s i v e Wa s t e Management Plan (CWMP) submitted to Guyana's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) last year.

The document notes that ExxonMobil's subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) reviewed four laboratories that are in operation performing various degrees of analytical services, or have future planned operations.

It was noted that Kaizen (Georgetown) has a small lab with limited testing capability (no solid waste) w i t h a s m a l l s t a ff o f approximately eight people for executing testing and other functions of this business.

EEPGL said the University of Guyana (Georgetown) has multiple analytical instruments but no laboratory.

The company said the analytical instruments are not currently available for commercial purposes nor on a routine basis.

The company said too that staffing may be limited to two persons.

With respect to Ecotox Environmental Services Ltd. (Ecotox), EEPGL said, this is a Trinidad based environmental testing and consultancy service that is considering the establishment of an environmental laboratory operation in Guyana. Ecotox currently provides all of the analytical services to Tiger Rentals Guyana and EEPGL for their waste management programmes.

It was noted however that all samples must be shipped via air to Trinidad for analysis. EEPGL said this adds delays to obtaining time critical analytical results.

Further to this, EEPGL said Ecotox is in a startup mode and currently has no building or laboratory, nor a staff. The company said Ecotox may not be ready for offering services for another five years.

Turning its attention to Ground Structures Engineering Consultants Ltd. (GSEC) at Liliendaal, G r e a t e r, G e o r g e t o w n , EEPGL said it has an existing geotechnical laboratory, but it is not currently equipped for environmental testing and is essentially in a startup mode.

The oil company said GSEC may not be ready for offering services for another five years.

The Stabroek Block operator was keen to note that an American laboratory service company that does pharmaceutical and U.S. Federal Drug Administration testing has expressed interest in developing environmental testing capabilities in Guyana. EEPGL said the company has the experience

in managing a laboratory, acquired a location, and is in the process of procuring equipment. Kaieteur News understands that identifying the testing protocols and equipment needs are the next steps. Currently, suitable analytical testing is available in Trinidad but EEPGL said use of a Trinidad laboratory extends the timeline for completion of test results along with attendant challenges associated with transport of samples.

Taking the foregoing into consideration, EEPGL suggested that an economic feasibility study be

considered to determine if a commercial environmental laboratory in Guyana is a sustainable business with respect to supply and demand.

It said economic feasibility studies consider several factors which include: estimated startup cost for land purchase/lease, training budget, maintenance, certification, local technical staffing availability in Guyana, customer demand and pricing considerations, type and number of Guyana industries requiring third party analytical services, and

Government regulations that require environmental monitoring.

EEPGL said other options to the development of a commercial environmental laboratory includes the expansion of the existing University of Guyana laboratory to provide additional analytical services to commercial customers, or the development of a laboratory owned and operated by the Environmental Protection Agency that can provide analytical services to support its needs. EEPGL also (Continued on page 16)

Opposition MP, Sherod Duncan placed on $200,000 bail for allegedly calling GECOM employee 'jagabat' and 'trench crappo' Opposition, Member of Parliament, Sherod Duncan was on Monday placed on $200,000, bail for allegedly referring to the IT Manager of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) as a 'jagabat' and 'trench Crappo'.

Duncan appeared in the Diamond/Grove Magistrate's Court before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman, in the company of a battery of lawyers: attorneys-at-law Khemraj Ramjattan, Nigel Hughes, Narissa Leander and Amanza Walton-Desir.

The MP denied the charge which alleges that on January 11, 2022, without legal or lawful justification or excuse, he used a computer system to publish electronic data about Aneal Giddings, an IT Manager at GECOM, with the intent to humiliate and embarrass and to cause emotional distress.

Cybercrimes are usually

done with the use of the internet and the different instruments that it has available. According to Section 19:2 of the Cybercrime Act 2018, “A person commits an offence if he uses a computer system to publish or transmit electronic data that is obscene, vulgar, profane, lewd, lascivious or indecent with intent to humiliate, harass or cause substantial emotional distress to another person.”

The law stipulates that a person who commits an offence under this section is liable: on summary conviction to a fine of G$5 million dollars and to imprisonment for three years; and on conviction or indictment to a fine of G$10 million dollars and to imprisonment for five years.

Principal Magistrate Latchman first granted the Opposition member bail in

the sum of $275,000 but later reduced the bail to $200,000, after an application was made to the court by Duncan's lawyer. The matter was then adjourned to February 10, 2022.

According to reports, Duncan allegedly made derogatory remarks against Giddings during his 'In the Ring' talk show. It was reported that around 11:30hrs on Wednesday last (January 12), Giddings, a 36year-old resident of Diamond, East Bank Demerara, filed a complaint against Duncan, in which it was alleged that the Opposition MP made a number of derogatory statements against him on January 11 last during his show. Duncan is alleged to have referred to Giddings as a 'jagabat' and a 'trench crappo' among other disrespectful names, which are said to have (Continued on page 10)

Sherod Duncan with some of his lawyers at court yesterday.

Opposition, Member of Parliament, Sherod Duncan.

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 18, 2022

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

Round the clock surveillance

A

neighbour who is one that can be definitely considered a wise and patriotic oilman made a recommendation to leaders in the Guyana Government. He called on them to conduct round-the-clock surveillance with what is going on out there in the oil fields with our national treasure, some 120 miles from our shores (“Former Suriname oil boss urges Guyana to have 24hr surveillance offshore” -KN January 13). Without a doubt, that makes for much sense, and can only deliver what is beneficial to this country’s interests.

Mr. Rudolf Elias knows what he is talking about, and regardless of what leaders in the Guyana Government think or how they view him, he knows more than them, perhaps all of them put together.

This includes Guyana’s supposed leading oil authority, the Vice President, and it is the product of 30 years of deep experience in what is a tricky oil industry. As the former head of Staatsolie, the Suriname National Oil Company, Mr. Elias is someone who could speak with conviction and authority, since it was what was earned in the decades, which he spent in the business. It is why we say, indeed insist, that Guyana’s leaders would do well to listen to this man and what he is saying.

He is saying that this country should have 24-hour surveillance over those oil fields out in the seas. We agree 100 percent.

We don’t know what is going on, have not a clue, and have to depend on whatever Exxon decides to tell us. We don’t know if what is shared with us is factual, accurate, or the whole truth. In view of how Exxon has played games with us, and has tried repeatedly to make fools of us, 24hour surveillance is not only sound, but what serves to protect our interests. As we have said before, made clear via different channels, we don’t trust the people at Exxon, and we have no respect for their business ethics and practices.

As one example, we point to those billions in bills in American dollars, which were dumped on us, and which are a far cry from what standard practices are globally. Further, there were findings of where Exxon tried to cheat us before, so it is a fair conclusion that the company will cheat us at any and every opportunity that presents itself.

Because of this alone, and there are other areas that we are not touching today, it is in our interests to have 24-hour surveillance offshore.

The former Suriname oil boss pointed to two reasons that make such uninterrupted surveillance necessary, we would say mandatory. The first is that we must be able to follow every move that is made out there by the oil companies, every step and everything they do ought to be scrutinized with a microscope and then run through with a fine-tooth comb. The oil companies have not given us an inch, or a penny, so there is no reason, why we should not return the favour twice over if we can. We must watch them, and they must know that we are watching them nonstop. The second reason advanced by Mr. Elias for such surveillance is that there is the accumulation of muchneeded knowledge, which adds to our library of understanding and know-how, as we seek to increase the little that is in our reservoir.

These are priceless things that have inestimable value in the long-run, and that which should not be outsourced, or left in the hands of outsiders. Our people must be the ones on the ground (vessels) gaining the insights that, in time, will make the oil companies sit up and be nervous around us, because we know too much.

We want them (oil companies) in that position where whatever they were pulling before, they are now forced to curtail, due to likely fallouts from being caught in the act.

Surveillance makes that possible.

There is one more benefit that Mr. Elias didn’t mention.

We get to monitor our own people, and keep them honest, so that they don’t sell to Exxon. What Mr. Elias urges calls for is strong leadership in the PPP/C Government. As to whether they will act accordingly, that’s to be seen.

YESU PERSAUD WAS A VISIONARY DEAR EDITOR, I write to pay tribute to Yesu Persaud. He was a selfmade millionaire (in US $). The road to success for Yesu wasn’t easy. He was not born with a silver spoon like some youngsters of today.

He did not come from any business legacy. He achieved success through sheer commitment and dedication, grit, and acumen. His style of working was consultative and democratic and he embraced fresh, innovative ideas. He made it big by building a business, brick by brick, “dutty by dutty”.

Yesu was a great visionary. He was a leader with determination to translate his vision into reality. After the end of socialism in Guyana, he became the most famous businessman. And he is often referred to as the doyen of Indian business community.

His effective and passionate leadership transformed the DDL into a magnificent success and now a conglomerate involved in banking, juicing or agro-processing, electricity generation, in addition to spirit manufacturing. His perseverance and vision have helped him to set up a massive empire and claim success at international business platforms. He is a true inspiration for budding entrepreneurs as his optimistic approach has led to the outstanding growth of DDL. I did not know of Yesu, as he was popularly known, long after I departed Guyana in 1977 to pursue tertiary education. Like others in the diaspora, I read of and about Yesu when I was a teenager and didn’t get to meet him until the late-1980s when I was chosen by a committee

to liaise with him in organizing the New York commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of Indian Arrival in Guyana. I found him affable, warm, and friendly. Yesu and I met countless times thereafter in Guyana, Trinidad, NY, India, and elsewhere at international conferences on Indian Immigration, conversing on varied interesting pertinent topics of the times — such as Guyana and Caribbean economies, PNC dictatorship, Gorbachev reforms, Indian economic reforms, Indian culture, free and fair election in Guyana, etc. He interviewed me a couple of times on a TV programme, which he hosted. He was praiseworthy of then (early 1990s) Indian Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao and Finance Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh (who went on to become PM from 2004 to 2014) for opening the Indian economy. Yesu also praised Desmond Hoyte for the 1988 economic reforms in Guyana that set the train for political reforms and the restoration of democratic governance that came in late 1992.

Hoyte and Yesu fell out when Yesu joined the struggle for the advocacy of restoration of democratic rule in Guyana and helped formed GUARD. Yesu’s life was threatened and his house was fired upon with bullets, almost injuring him. He was a small built man, just about 5 feet but he had a giant reputation and character. He was soft spoken but had fierce body language and huge stature. He was tough and courageous for taking on Burnham, Jagan, and Hoyte to redirect Guyana’ economy towards free enterprise away from communist control. And he

succeeded. Guyana is no longer a communist state (government directed and controlled economy). Guyana is also a democracy and Yesu played an important role in that outcome joining the struggle against the dictatorship and in Jagan becoming President in 1992. He supported Bharrat Jagdeo when he was chosen as President.

In September 1999, Yesu was given the honour of introducing a young President Jagdeo at an Indian conference at the Crowne Plaza hotel ballroom in Elmhurst, Queens. He showered accolades on Jagdeo. He played a role in the undoing of the Ramotar administration in late 2014 and the rise of the coalition to office in 2015. He also was critical of the efforts to rig the 2020 general elections, urging David Granger to respect the will of the electorate. Yesu studied accounting (in UK) and worked his way up in management in Guyana in the government (during the colonial and post-independence periods) and private sector to become an iconic business entrepreneur. It was not easy to be an Indian (in a racially divided Guyana characterized by ethnic animosity) and a businessperson in Guyana during the colonial era and moreso post-independence during the Burnham/Hoyte eras. Yesu overcame all those adversities associated with colour, caste, class, ethnicity, and politics to become a successful entrepreneur. That he manoeuvred Burnham’s dictatorship and consolidated his businesses and kept them in the forefront of Guyana industries was an outstanding achievement. As business folks told me, he was not a

greedy, self-centered person as characterized some new business persons. In his time as a prosperous caption of industry, he wanted business to grow. He did not destroy other businesses so his company could succeed. He was in business for self-wealth as well as to help others. He was helpful to many businesses.

As an illustration, his IPED loans allowed many small budding entrepreneurs to get into business. Giving loans is a lot more effective than giving cash grants, which leads to a dependency syndrome rather than financial independence. He helped ordinary people who had ambition and an idea with financial resources. He gave them loans and supporting officers to streamline their business to make it work. People came with a passion with an idea and he helped them make it happen. IPED made money through its interest rates and the small businesses also made money. IPED had to pay for expenses, maintaining staff, etc. And he encouraged farmers to grow fruit crops.

He bought cherries and other fruits from them which his DDL company processed into fruit pulps for packaging juice sold domestically and regionally earning critical foreign exchange. Yesu is widely admired for his personal conduct, simple lifestyle, and leadership, transformed the business arena in terms of innovation and entrepreneurship. He is a role model for others. Aspiring business people looking for inspiration would do well to study the achievements of Guyana’s greatest businessmen.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

IF IT IS NOT RACE, THEN IT IS POLITICS DEAR EDITOR The observation of former PNC’s Prime Minister and Mayor of Georgetown, Mr. Hamilton Green, though puzzling is still interesting. Denigrating the City’s clean-up exercise and offering a pretext for the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to boycott the project, his position raises serious doubts about his commitment to a green and clean physical environment.

Why would someone who is against environmental degradation, objects to the armed forces’ participation in upgrading the environment? Mr. Green asserts, “I denounced the proposal to involve the Police and Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in this massive cleanup campaign...”

The central government under the leadership of President Irfaan Ali took to the streets over the weekend and began a clean-up campaign never seen before in Guyana.

What is amazing is that not only the armed forces, members of Cabinet, the PSC, but also the diplomatic community joined in the two-day clean-up campaign. The central government has shown that appealing to civic consciousness and volunteerism could also mitigate problems.

This clean-up exercise is a major embarrassment to the M&CC as well as the PNCR. Mr. Green should know that national development and the expression of civic responsibility must be embraced by all segments of the society including the armed forces, government agencies, NGOs and private enterprises.

The technological and social media revolution is altering traditional conceptions of status and roles to make these compatible with new development trends.

The perception of lack of support for City Hall does not mean lack of support for the

City and one that is guided by politics (PPPC vs PNCR).

It is very easy to explain problems by substituting reason and evidence with race or politics. Most Guyanese will instead embrace evidencedriven arguments. The central government has shown— with the implementation of various City projects— its commitment to upgrading the physical configuration of the City as well as enhancing its social infrastructure. A more recent example is the plot of land on the Lamaha corridor that stretches between Main and Camp Streets that will be developed by the central government into a “safe space where Guyanese can enjoy family time.”

Notwithstanding the mismanagement and corruption, the City is a top priority of central government, and this is also captured by Local Government Minister, Nigel Dharamlall who notes: “As

soon as President Ali took office, one of the first things, he did at his first Cabinet meeting was to establish a ministerial task force to review development works on behalf of the government within the city of Georgetown.” Two examples of mismanagement by the M&CC are presented.

In 2016, the M&CC decided to install parking meters in Georgetown. Despite massive protests against this project by citizens, the M&CC proceeded with the support of the PNCR-led coalition government. Despite continuing protests, a contract was signed with Smart City Solutions (SCS). Eventually, the M&CC was forced to abandon the project. Now, five years later, SCS has sued the PPPC government for $(US) 100 million. Note Guyana’s Attorney, the SCS lawsuit is “demonstrative of (Continued on page 6)

Tuesday January 18, 2022

It is a new stage of despair and alarm when children end up dying from COVID-19 DEAR EDITOR, As if the increasing numbers of over 1000 positive reported cases of the COVID19 virus was not alarming enough, we have read of children dying from this virus within the last few days, a 14month-old baby, a 3-year-old child, a 3-month-old baby and a 6-year-old child. It is a new stage of despair and alarm when children end up being fatally affected by this virus as is happening now.

It is because of the desire of parents to protect their children, that there have been appeals to the Government and the Minister of Education to close the schools and resume the virtual learning.

They have remained staunchly steadfast in their ill-advised and reckless decision so as not to do. There has to be something wrong.

How can the reopening of schools for the helpless, unvaccinated children possibly be justified in view of what is transpiring in our country now with the escalating numbers and fatalities? On Sunday, there were several reportedly fully vaccinated persons who succumbed to this

dreaded virus, with a majority in the 40-age range.

There has been no mention as to the vaccines, which these individuals would have received, when they received the vaccines and whether they were boosted or not.

Surely, the time has come for a National State of Emergency. There have been zero measures undertaken by this Government to address or curtail the spread of this virus, which is claiming the lives of our precious children now.

If one were asked to identify one measure that has been put in place, it would be difficult to do so. There should be urgent press conferences held by the President and Minister of Health to address this situation, the immediate imposition of a strict curfew and closures of all the restaurants and bars.

The Government would be wary of offending the business owners but the lives of the people of Guyana are at stake. The Government continues to remain indifferent and callous. Instead of cleaning the streets, government should be instituting measures geared towards protect-

ing the people from this virus such as an immediate earlier curfew and closure of places of entertainment and recreation. The Minister of Education needs to publicly appear instead of posting screenshots from behind a computer screen and address the issue of children attending school in person. This decision should be suspended immediately in view of the number of cases and the highly infectious nature of the Omicron variant. Until the Government ceases its sloth like approach and lack of concern, it is up to us as a nation to take every precaution. Maintain a distance, stay away from those not in your household, wear masks, avoid crowds, be fully vaccinated and boosted and for those who can, remain at home. There have been those who huddle together and remove masks for group pictures. Such pandering to vanity is a risk. Please stay safe my fellow Guyanese. Taking precautions means not only protecting yourself but those around you.

Yours truly, Stephanie Isaacs

CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OF YESU PERSAUD DEAR EDITOR, Our deepest condolences to the family of Guyanese stalwart, Dr. Yesu Persaud. I was privileged to review some of his earlier work in the Beverage Alcohol Industry and remain impressed by how he overcame all the naysayers earlier in his career who now ad-

mire the great contribution he has made to the industry.

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

FITUG SUPPORTS LOCAL CONTENT ACT DEAR EDITOR The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) has long held the position that Guyanese must first and foremost benefit from our country’s natural wealth. Indeed, we contended that our patrimony needed to ensure the long-term development of our country. It was against that background that the Federation was among the several organisations that were actively involved and expressed our views in the iterative consultative process

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in respect of the recently enacted Local Content Act. The FITUG was, therefore, disappointed to learn that extra-national elements were seeking to seemingly reverse our national efforts to put Guyanese first. As a patriotic organization, we cannot stand idly at the sidelines and allow our efforts to ensure the advancement of our people slowed or halted. We are of the firm view that our country, as a sovereign nation, must take every opportunity to ensure that our people benefit maximally from

its resources. This is the aspiration of all peoples and governments. Thus, efforts to rewind our progress cannot be countenanced.

We noticed such efforts come against the background of regional integration. Of course, we are also advised that the steps taken by the (Continued on page 6)

THE CASE FOR GOVERNMENT-RUN design the supply chain so SUPERMARKETS that the farmers get the direct DEAR EDITOR I would like to make reference to an article in KN dated 17th January, 2022 called “Eat shine rice for one week” ( h t t p s : / / www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/ .../eat-shine-rice.../) which speaks to the unreasonable increase in food prices despite all the relief measures being offered by the PPP. The concern is that there are maligned and self-serving elements within the supply chain of agricultural products in the country that are jacking up the prices. This is concurrent with the unique behaviour of Guyana’s private sector and trades people who only know how to trade up along a supply chain with unreasonable margins throughout the way. For the economic purists who have an unshakeable belief in “free market economics”, I have always maintained, that in Guyana, those rules do not strictly apply, as Guyana, as we all know, is not exactly a normal, textbook environment. And even then, at the core of economic theories, not everything is infallible and there are always different views and models of doing things that can work depending on what the desired outcome to the end user is.

The writer of this KN ar-

ticle also suggests that farmers should be registered and licensed and be allowed to sell their produce directly to the customer within the confines of a ‘farmer’s market’.

The intention here, I suppose, is to cut out the middleman.

This could be a good idea, especially if a busy farmer can carve time out of their busy schedule to also prepare and market their goods, or if they have someone in their family who can do it for them. This admittedly is where the other value of middlemen reside they have the time to collect a lot of produce, present it and market in large volumes. But obviously this is not working as the markups are skewed in a very malignant manner. Especially given all the subsidies and improvements that the agricultural sector would have been receiving throughout the year - the May floods of 2021 have long passed. I would like to stretch the concept of a “farmer’s market” even further, and recommend, yet again, that the Government look into to doing a trial run of grocery stores - no subsidies, no subventions just like the profitable government-run Asphalt plant and the profitable governmentrun GuyOil company - open up and compete equally in the free market, except carefully

benefit as much as possible, while only creating margins enough to sustain the operations of the grocery stores and no more. As a government-run institution, once run correctly, the incentives will be different.

For the older ones who have the “jumbie” of Burnham economics still burning their minds I say to you, this is a different era, and my proposal is based on a totally different economic model. Just like you don’t have to present a Freedom House card to buy gas at GuyOil, a government-run chain of grocery stores can serve our entire population equitably. In conclusion, given the steep rise in prices, global and regional inflation, the extreme national importance of agriculture and how impactful food items are to the common man’s wallet, government-run supermarkets/ grocery stores at the very least deserve a serious trial run. Put aside the emotions, and let us see what the data from those trial runs say. If it works, the country wins, if it fails due to the revelation of issues at the core of the idea then we shelve the idea and try something else. But to do nothing, would be a grave injustice to the common man.

Regards, Kimberley Abdul

POLICE, CYBERCRIME AND THE REPUTATION OF CITIZENS DEAR EDITOR, It is revealing how governance operates in this country. It is also repelling. I read of the developments involving Member of Parliament, Sherrod Duncan, and I am struck by the swiftness and efficiency of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) as its members went after him with energy and spirit. From the record, it is regrettable that the same is not across the board, without fear or favour, regardless of who is involved. Now that Dr. Yog Mahadeo has had his first turn, I watch to see what kind of enthusiasm the GPF will deploy in his instance. As for the vile attacks on me, those never got off the ground at the GPF. Mr.

Duncan’s crime is of calling someone two disparaging names. To tell the truth, those were new to me, as I have never heard them before, have no idea what they mean, so cannot speak to the piercing nature (or lack thereof) of their employment. But there was the parliamentarian in rapid order charged and fined for violation of the law relating to Cybercrime(s) committed on some Facebook programme. Clearly, the list of slurs lengthens in Guyana, and the suddenly keen sensitivity of recipients has collapsed on jagged shoals.

Meaning that anything could amount to what is construed as damaging and humiliating and degrading ad infinitum.

And, similarly, anyone could step forward and claim grievous wounding of the spirit and reputation, including those who lack both. And more revealingly, the reach of the Cyber Crime Unit in the GPF can be quickly marshalled and unleashed in selective ways. In the simplest terms, matter distil to this: those held as threats or enemies to the PPPC Government, its litany of leadership deviousness, and its comprehensive corruptions are to be targeted and made examples of, through social media platforms, as in the instances of Dr. Mahadeo and me. While in the case of Mr. Duncan, he utters what can only be measured (Continued on page 6)

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Tuesday January 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

Region 4 resident is country’s latest COVID-19 fatalities - 892 new cases recorded The Ministry of Health reported yesterday that an 87year-old man from Region Four, who contracted the novel Coronavirus (COVID19) disease, has died.

As a result of this, the country’s COVID-19 death toll has moved to 1,096.

The man, who was a fully vaccinated patient, died yesterday while receiving treatment at a medical facility, the Ministry stated.

Meanwhile, in its latest COVID-19 dashboard, the Health Ministry recorded 892 new COVID-19 infections, taking the total number of confirmed cases to 52,095.

A breakdown of new cases per region shows that Region Four leads with 652 cases, Region Three with 71 cases, Region Seven with 36 cases, Region Two with 35 cases, Region 10 with 27 cases, Regions Five and Six

with 26 cases each, Region Nine with 14 cases, Region Eight with four cases and Region One with one case.

The dashboard also shows that 15 patients are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit, 158 individuals are in institutional isolation, 11,196 in home isolation and four in institutional quarantine.

To date, a total of 39,630 persons have recovered from the virus.

I support Mr. Glenn Lall DEAR EDITOR In support of the courageous Mr. Glenn Lall, our “social justice warrior” who has taken on the oil giants in his fight on behalf of this nation’s poor, let every Guyanese lend their signature to this cause that Exxon, Hess,

and the courts (in particular) may know that we, the people of Guyana support Mr. Lall’s every step in his fight for justice for all Guyanese.

Yours truly Gloria Holder

POLICE, CYBERCRIME AND...

From page 5 to be frivolous at best and thoughtless at worst, those speaking out against the government and its lying leaders are fair game, with orchestrated GPF sloth and indifference; but those who err, no matter how minutely, are subjected to immediate inquisitions and indictments.

Editor, I now ask that the actions of GPF in the instance of Mr. Duncan be weighed against the repugnance that was unleashed by PPPC Government agents against me a few months back using the anonymity of social media, and now against Dr. Mahadeo. It is where sleazy operators functioning at the behest of dirty leaders in this government (or what they think would please those leaders) skillfully use taxpayers’ money to attack, smear, and vilify a citizen. After months of silence, the official word to me was ‘I wouldn’t take that seriously…’ Given these dia-

bolical handiworks of Government henchmen and goons, I wonder what Dr. Accountability, the President, has to say about these democratic norms occurring under his watch; and that other doctor, who is the leader of the party, especially when the reports are that the source of the evils perpetrated are traceable to both Freedom House and the Office of the Prime Minister.

Mr. Duncan was hauled in quickly, but others get to roam and perpetuate their wanton criminal mischiefs. It would be interesting what Mr. Law and Order, the Hon. Attorney General, who glows with a light, not as he imagines or pretends, thinks of all this, how passive and detached he will be. That is, when his party and government agents deal with those Josef Stalin used to call ‘deviationists.’

The same obtains relative to that fine gentleman who calls himself a Bishop, and

brethren from my own Roman Catholic denomination. I identify them in the persons of the Hon. Minister of Housing and another who presides over some parliamentary business. Who is their god, if not the supreme leader?

What is it that they believe, worship, other than impenetrable darkness? What is their understanding of truth, free speech, and fairness?

Perhaps, free and fair only apply to elections, and getting at the levers of power, so that both citizens and institutions can be mutilated at will, and reprehensibly.

I suppose in their book, this is what passes for honourable and principled standards, the workings of clean governance. After all, it is only politics, and it is a dirty game. And in the sum of it, this is equal protection under the law and consistent applications of it.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

IF IT IS NOT RACE, THEN IT...

From page 4 the previous administration’s mismanagement.” He describes the suit as ‘inherited’ by the PPP/C that is “onerous on the country’s economy and a financial burden on taxpayers to defend.”

Then there is the case of the iconic City Hall that has been crumbling for several years and successive M&CC have failed to develop and implement a restoration plan.

The central government intervened and collaborated with the M&CC and the European Union to implement a $(G) 780 million restoration plan. Seeking to ensure good management of the project, the central government ensured that the funds are administered by

3 entities: M &CC, The National Trust, and the Private Sector Commission (PSC).

This is not a political but a strategic management decision. Notably at the signing of the contract, the Mayor complimented the central government and stated, “this can inspire a continuous relationship to execute other projects.” Yet the Mayor was given another opportunity to demonstrate goodwill by participating in the clean-up campaign, but bluntly refused and called for its boycott instead.

The garbage accumulation has been a perennial problem in Georgetown and the M&CC have not been bothered by it, and therefore takes no firm action to solve

or mitigate it. This eyesore, combined with the dilapidated PNCR’s $(G)1.5 billion ‘Green Zone Recreational Park’ (D’Urban Park), hurts the City’s image and throws a bad light on its citizens. The central government cannot always intervene to carry out the ordinary responsibilities of the M&CC. The M&CC allocates a substantial proportion (18%) of its annual $(G) 2.4 billion budget for waste management. They should give an account on how the funds are expended. The M&CC must seek a rapprochement with the central government to make Georgetown the Garden City.

Regards Dr. Tara Singh

FITUG...

From page 5 Guyanese are not unusual. We have learnt that even more stringent measures have been taken by our regional counterparts without then any whimper of disagreement. The Federation recognises the importance of regional collaboration in the collective interest of our small economies. We, however, must draw a line when such efforts seek to conflict with our collective hopes of our people.

Regards Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana

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L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Tuesday January 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

A son of the soil, Yesu Persaud, is no more but his legacy will remain etched in the annals of our history.

He was an outstanding mogul and trendsetter in the business arena.

Indeed, our country could have been so much better off if we had more patriots like Yesu Persaud.

PAGE 07

PAGE 08

The man: His was a classic Guyanese success story. Born October 18, 1928 at the Diamond Sugar Plantation, Dr. Yesu Persaud at the age of 16, set out to find a job as his parents were unable to find the money to finance his studies. In 1955, with a little money from his wife, Premkowarie Singh, he left for England, where he became an associate member of the ACCA and where he also elevated himself as a senior auditor in a large professional accounting firm.

He also spent some time in Canada, where he did well in investments as a c o n s u l t a n t .

However, yearnings to return to his homeland caused him to return to Guyana in 1966, when he joined the public

Tuesday January 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

Dr. Yesu Persaud

service as an Inspector of Taxes. A few months later, he joined the staff of Sandbach Parker and Company, the oldest British company in Guyana, where he was appointed Group Finance Director only after four years, a position which had so far been opened only to qualified expatriates.

When the Guyanese Government decided to nationalise the Demerara Sandbach Group in 1975, Yesu was one of the three negotiators. At that time, he refused a tempting offer in the UK of two years' tax free s a l a r y. T h e G u y a n a Government offered Yesu the position of Executive Chairman of the Diamond Liquors Limited (DLL) as well as Managing Director of

the Demerara Sugar Company, together with other companies in the former Sandbach Group.

D e v e l o p m e n t Yesu led DLL and developed it into the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), churning out the El Dorado rums and diversifying it into production of some of the world's choicest soft drinks, like Pepsi, 7UP, Mountain Dew, Gatorade, fruit juices and water. Other companies, which he spearheaded were the Demerara Shipping C o m p a n y, C O 2 G a s C o m p a n y, Tr o p i c a l Orchards, Demerara Contractors and Engineers Ltd, BEV Processors Inc. – a shrimp procession plant, and Distribution Services Ltd, which represents Nestle, and

Johnson and Johnson. The company also has its subsidiaries in Holland, UK, USA, and St. Kitts, and operates a joint venture in India, as well as distribution arrangement in Asia. Yesu was also the brain behind the formation of the first indigenous private sector bank, Demerara Bank Limited, which started in 1994. Yesu held numerous positions in other organisations. He was the Chairman of Trust Company (Guyana) Limited, and Guyana Unit Trust — a mutual fund — and was the man behind Diamond Fire and General Insurance Company.

Contributions In 1988, Yesu gained further recognition as he lobbied to

the then President, Desmond Hoyte, for approval to celebrate 150 years of East Indian Arrival in Guyana. . It was not an easy task, but he won over Hoyte.

He is also one of the founding members of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), which was established in New York in 1989. In addition to being Vice President of GOPIO International, he is also Vice President of GOPIO's C a r i b b e a n C h a p t e r.

He has been serving as the Honorary Consul for the Republic of Chile for many years.

Against his list of achievements and the numerous positions that he holds among the many

c o m p a n i e s a n d organisations, it has been widely accepted that there can be no doubt that Yesu is a representative of the Caribbean people. In 1981, he was awarded the Golden Arrow of Achievement, a national honour, for the expansion of the distilling industry in Guyana. In 1983, he received the Cacique Crown of Honour for developing many new industries. He also bagged the Gandhi Organisation Plaque and other awards for his contribution to the Hindu Dharma, and the list goes on.

Of special mention, though, was the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas award presented by India's President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam to Yesu on January 9, 2006.

US$6M to repair Demerara Harbour Bridge

The Demerara Harbour Bridge.

The ongoing rehabilitation works for spans nine and 10 of the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) is being done at a cost of $1.2 billion (US$6M).This is according to General Manager of the Bridge, Wayne Watson, who made the disclosure during a recent Ministry of Public Works press conference.

Early last year, the company Industrial Fabrication (INFAB) was awarded the contract to replace and repair the damaged retractor spans which is the most critical

section of the bridge, which absorbs “the most wear and tear.” The DHB in a release had noted that the objective of the rehabilitation project is to restore the retractors spans by eliminating the existing structural deficiencies and reconstruct retractor span nine so as to improve the bridge's condition, geometrics, safety, and load-carrying capacity.The works, which began in November last year were scheduled to be completed in December but that timeline has since moved to April this year.“The total cost for rehabilitation (Continued on page 16)

Tuesday January 18, 2022

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

A PATIENT SPIRIT A reporter went to heaven and saw two lines.

Over one line was a sign that read “For men who were dominated by their wives”.

There were hundreds of men in that line.

The other line had a sign which read, “For men who dominated their wives.”

There was only one man standing in that line.

Being a reporter, he went up to the man and asked, “Sir, could you tell me why you’re the only man in the line for “Men who dominated their wives?””Sure,” the other man responded, “My wife told me to stand here.”

Guyanese do not like lines.

This may have something to do with the experience of the past when there were shortages and people would see a line, join it and then ask what the line was about.

That experience taught patience.

People developed the patience to stand in line all day, not knowing when their turn came whether they would get whatever was being sold.

Perhaps, it is because the present generation was spared those hard times that so many Guyanese have become impatient.

Some motorists run the red light at junctions just because they do not wish to wait 60 seconds.

Banks are usually very quiet places and the atmosphere influences the mood. Even loud- mouthed persons are constrained from speaking audibly in banks.

Despite this, one can hear grumblings in the lines leading to the tellers.

People complain despite

the air-conditioned atmosphere that the lines move too slowly. They are impatient; they want to get out of there.

Waiting 10 minutes in a line these days can lead to frustration and at times anger especially when someone jumps the queue.

This is a regular practice in Guyana.

You are standing patiently in a line and then someone comes up and forms a conversation with the person ahead of you. And the next thing you know is that the latecomer gets into your space.

When others see this, they do the same and the entire line is thrown into chaos.Whenever there are big events, being in a queue can be a problem.

Order can easily turn into confusion simply because people do not wish to form a line and to wait their turn.

It was amazing to see the queue in Libya of persons lining up to see the body of the murdered Muammar Gaddafi.

One would have expected there to be a mad rush to see the body of the slain leader.

This was however not the case.

The people lined up orderly and calmly to see the remains of the late leader.

Even though the majority of those who went to view the body could not be considered supporters of the slain leader, there was calmness about the whole procession of persons.

Those in line were patient and waited their turns.

The one time that Guyanese seem to exercise tremendous

patience is during elections period.

The number of persons eligible to vote at any polling station is kept within limits so as to avoid the excuse that someone could not vote because of the long lines.

Yet we find that there are long lines early in the morning as voters heed their parties request to go out and vote early and late in the afternoon just as the polls are about to close. For the remainder of the day, it is just a trickle of persons that can be seen in and out of the polling stations.

The vast majority of Guyanese vote early in the morning and late in the afternoon.

And you would be amazed that despite having to stand in line, there are few protests about the length of the line or the time taken.

People take voting seriously in Guyana, so seriously that they do not complain about the lines.

Interestingly, there are hardly any cases of persons trying to jump the queue.

There is so much patience in the election line.

If we can do it for elections, we can also do it for normal situation.

There is no reason why people should get frustrated at standing a few minutes in a line for a service.

They do it for election without complaining but when it comes to paying a bill, they want to get out of the line quickly.

Perhaps they should try gardening.

It takes time, it takes efforts and it takes tons of

Dem Boys Seh…

Littering is against de law De clean-up come and gone. De littering continuing. We just digging a hole to full a hole.

De city looking clean and nice.

But for how long, we nah know.

Unless we get to de root of de garbage problem, we can have a clean-up exercise every week, it will not help.

No clean-up will be sustainable unless we tackle de root of de problem.

Too much garbage being generated in too small a city.

We gat too much businesses and too many ven-

dors in wan small space.

As such, de garbage is overwhelming.

Littering is a problem all over.

If only it been get pick up earlier.

A former mayor did seh how dem vendors does generate a lot of garbage.

And so while most of dem does keep dem place wah dem selling clean, dem does generate too much garbage fuh de City Hall to handle.

A sustainable solution has to involve reducing illegal vending and limiting business expansion.

But who will agree to dese

measures?

Not none ah dem political parties and not de private sector.

As such, we gat to continue to have de clean-up exercise.

De police now getting involved in arresting people fuh littering.

De guvament also putting up signs telling people dat dem can get fine fuh littering. One man get ketch littering near one ah de signs.

When de PoPo ask he why he littering at dat spot, he point to de sign wah read, “Fine for littering.”

Talk half. Leff half.

patience to get a garden going.

It is one activity that relaxes you and teaches patience. Other than that, we should simply have elections

every two years.

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Tuesday January 18, 2022

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

2021 Review – Part 3: The usual suspects and the unusual suspects T

h e m o s t fascinating thing about Guyanese politics that I don't see elsewhere is the oxymoronic content in the actions, motives and demagogueries of political plotters.

They are both comical and dangerous. Last year in Guyana the trend continued.

Can any human who lives in this country believe that Rickford Burke would sue anyone for libel?

Remember in libel, you are complaining that your character has been damaged by the spoken or printed

word. I saw Mr. Burke in 2021 saying that unless somebody gets run off the road then the PPP will not stop behaving as it does.

A person who used those words is suing Mr. Jagdeo for libel. Burke of course can no longer return to Guyana to testify in court when the trial begins.

He will be arrested on serious criminal charges since the police have issued a warrant for him.

A Guyanese woman in 2021 appealed before an international body asking for intervention to stop oil

drilling in Guyana. If a sovereign country can be prevented from entering into an investment covenant with a foreign company then surely, the world will become a most fascinating place.

If an international body can stop the arrangement between the Guyana Government and Exxon, then by the most logical reasoning that body has an obligation to rid Guyana of poverty.

One would hope that this woman reappears in front of the organisation in 2022 and

demand that it pours money into the University of Guyana and other places in this land that need it.

When I read that action of the lady, the first thing that struck me is why she didn't ask that international institution to stop Venezuela's claim on our country.

I saw an interview in 2021 and I was thankful to myself I wasn't drinking hot coffee while watching the programme. The host told his guest, David Hinds that he, Hinds, is a fine example of struggle.

Surely, David Hinds cannot, even in the remotest of Frederick Kissoon ways, be considered a person of struggle for genuine civil society. a better Guyana.

These were the people See what I mean by who struggled to prevent oxymoronic politics.

Hinds is one of the another rigged national fiercest rejectionists of the election in 2020 and saved us r e s u l t s o f t h e l e g a l , from the return of Burnham, internationally endorsed the dictator that Hinds now general election in March openly embraces. To refer to Hinds as a “fine example of 2020.

Hinds is an open s t r u g g l e ” a f t e r h i s supporter of the politics of continuing political sagas Burke. Hinds' racially laced since March 2020 is beyond s p e e c h e s a r e s i m p l y incredible.

It was definitely a crazy appalling.

Last week, he wrote that year in Guyana in 2021. A t h e P P P d o e s n ' t l i k e secret dossier of the AFC CARICOM nations for was made public in which racial reasons, seeing the AFC plans in March this C A R I C O M a s “ t h e m year when it holds its people.” Hinds chastised congress to leave the African East Coast villagers arrangement with the PNC. for leaving their villages to The AFC in this document buy black pudding from an makes big plans for its Indian lady in Mon Repos. Is resurrection as if it will that a man to be described as preserve its life after its split from the PNC. an example of struggle?

You have to read this Then just before 2021 was about to end, on his paper to see how comical F a c e b o o k s h o w t i t l e d this country's politics is.

Just before the year 2021 Politics 101, Hinds got into an emotional rage shouting, was about to enter into the “I am owning Burnham, I am annals of history, I was sent a owning Burnham and I don't video clip in which the son of give a damn what people Dr. Cheddi Jagan, Joey say.” I am told starting very Jagan, after showering soon is a Meta (Facebook) praise on three of Guyana's s h o w i n 2 0 2 2 t i t l e d voices that are rejectionists of the March 2020 election Dictatorship 101.

The host (from the results, revealed that he was diaspora) is someone whose a registered member of the f a t h e r B u r n h a m w a s Republican Party of the United States. Shakespeare responsible for killing.

The son will use that once wrote: “ M a n , p ro u d m a n , forum each day to disown Burnham and show how Dress'd in a little brief Burnham planned the a u t h o r i t y , assassination of Walter Most ignorant of what he's m o s t a s s u r ' d — Rodney.

There needs to be a His glassy essence—like an Facebook programme to angry ape.”

(The views expressed in remind Guyanese of the names and faces of the this article are those of the Guardians of Democracy. a u t h o r a n d d o n o t They were the symbols, necessarily reflect the motifs and manifestations of opinions of this newspaper.)

Opposition MP, Sherod Duncan...

From page 8 caused significant emotional stress and humiliation.

The police had reported that the video was identified and downloaded from the Facebook page under the name 'Sherod Avery Duncan'

by Inspector Blair and a statement was taken from Giddings.

Kaieteur News had reported that following the report that was made by

Giddings, Duncan was invited to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown. Upon his arrival, he was arrested and the allegation was put to him.

D uncan denied the allegations and was later released on $100,000 station bail and was subsequently brought before the court and charged under the Cybercrime Act.

Tuesday January 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 18, 2022

Tuesday January 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday January 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

Business icon Yesu Persaud passes on

Just last year, the University of Guyana UG published a book on the local business icon, Dr. Yesu Persaud.

D

r. Yesu Persaud, who for decades of public life was revered as the nation's top businessman and philanthropist and whose advocacy for a vibrant private sector and respect for rule of law helped shape this country, died on Monday after a period of illness. He was 93.

Persaud played a leading a role in the business community here and has also left his mark in the social and political spheres of this country.

DEMERARA DISTILLERS LIMITED

Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) – one of Dr. Persaud's company said in a statement that he lived a life which brought to the fore, the best possibilities which often were invisible to others. “His revolutionary initiatives quite often challenged convention but were extraordinarily successful as is evidenced by what DDL is today. The DDL we know today owes a great debt of gratitude to Yesu Persaud, for his bold and imaginative leadership for over four decades,” the statement read.

According to DDL,

Dr. Persaud poses with some spirits produced by his Demerara Distillers Limited Company. present and future generations of employees are and will be thankful for the strong foundation that he has built to make our company succeed. “We will forever be appreciative for the career opportunities we enjoy today, which are all possible because of the carefully constructed foundation designed by a master architect, the late Dr. Yesu Persaud.” During his years at DDL, Dr. Persaud was at the forefront of innovation, modernisation, and diversification. “He was a champion for causes of our employees, customers, and

shareholders. He always displayed abiding humility and understanding, while at the same time promoting the highest levels of discipline, honesty, and productivity.”

DDL said one of the things “we will always remember about Dr. Persaud is his unending philanthropy.

DDL's journey over the years was not without its challenges, particularly in its early years. However, Dr. Persaud's leadership was robust and exemplary. As we mourn Dr. Persaud's passing, DDL will continue to draw on the life of this national treasure; his unmatched approach to governance, and his staunch commitment to doing what is right. The Board of Directors, Management, and staff at DDL extend to his bereaved wife and children and all his loved ones, our sincerest condolences on this great loss. We hope you can find comfort in the extraordinary achievements of his lifetime and the very impactful contribution which he made,” the statement concluded.

President Irfaan Ali led tributes for the businessman on Monday, noting in a Facebook message that: “Guyana has lost an outstanding soul in Dr. Yesu Persaud, a true son of the soil. It is with great sadness I

Dr. Yesu Persaud was able to chronicle his life in a gritty autobiography.

learnt, moments ago, about his passing. To his family, friends, management and staff of DDL and Demerara Bank, and the wider private sector, I join with you in prayers at this time. May his soul find eternal peace.”

For its part, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) said it is deeply saddened and shaken at the passing of its Founding Chairman.

“The late Dr. Persaud was the architect of the rebirth of the private sector after decades of state-control and state-monopoly of business in Guyana,” the PSC said.

“The business community will forever be grateful for the astute and wise leadership he provided in the early days during the return of democracy to Guyana and particularly his role in the birth of the Private Sector Commission. Dr. Persaud's role in the restoration of democracy in Guyana, in 1992 is legendary. His forging of the Philosophy of Private Public Partnership became the foundation and principle of the PSC and will

The Demerara Distillers Limited celebrated th with Dr. Yesu Persaud on his 90 birthday.

forever be etched in our own relationship with Government. The PSC remembers him for standing firm in his beliefs and always playing his part with dignity.” According to the PSC, Dr. Persaud, who died early Monday, January 17 at the age of 93, was an astute businessman who held several positions of business and innovation including Executive Chairman of Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) and founder of the Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED). “The PSC expresses condolences to Persaud's family, friends, staff of DDL and the entire business community on the passing of this business icon. We shall be forever grateful for his contribution towards the development of Guyana.”

Mentor, guide and friend The Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED), one of many organisations, which Dr. Persaud established, in a (Continued on page 17)

Tuesday January 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 15

Lawyers want judicial review of Essequibo businessman's killing Attorney-at-law, Nigel Hughes yesterday revealed plans to file legal proceedings to challenge the decision of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC, to institute a manslaughter charge against the cop who allegedly killed Essequibo businessman, Orin Boston.

Last week, police constable Sherwin Peters, 32, of 1869 Central, Amelia's Ward, Linden, made his first court appearance for a manslaughter charge, almost four months after the businessman was shot and killed during a Special Weapons and Tactical S e r v i c e U n i t ( S WAT ) operation at his Dartmouth, Essequibo Coast home.

A t t o r n e y s - a t - l a w, Hughes and Konyo Sandiford, had applied as a party of interest for Boston's family in the matter.

As such, yesterday, in the compound of the D i a m o n d / G r o v e

Attorney-at-law Nigel Hughes.

Dead, Orin Boston.

Magistrate's Court, Hughes was asked by a reporter if he thinks the manslaughter charge for Peters is acceptable. Hughes replied, “I strongly condemn the decision of the Director of Public Prosecutions to in s titu te man s lau g h te r

charge, we are not going to leave it there. We will commence proceedings, prerogative proceedings to review that decision with a view to seeking an order of the court, directing her to charge the defendant with murder.”

Minister apologies after man walks half mile to bury infant son

reportedly left with no choice but to carry his son's body on his shoulder all the way to the cemetery.

Dr. Anthony in his apology said that it was not “standard procedure” for a relative to transport a COVID-19 infected corpse by themselves.

He explained that after the patient is pronounced dead, an official hand-over to the family takes place. The Minister continued that after this is done, another process follows whereby the relatives will be assisted in taking the remains to the cemetery.

In case of the dead child at Mabaruma, Dr. Anthony said that, “there is a vehicle that operates between the

we will file criminal charges for murder against the police officer or we will bring a judicial review proceedings against the Director of Public Prosecutions to quash her decision to charge for manslaughter and not murder.”

Hughes noted that he believes that the standard operating procedures of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) were breached during the

operation that Boston lost his life. To this end, he added that he believes that apart from the rank that reportedly shot and killed Boston, the head of the team is also criminally liable and culpable. As such, he noted, that there should be additional charges since there was no explanation to date as to why the SWAT team left their designated (Continued on page 18)

Two litterbugs arrested

The two litter bugs who were arrested yesterday.

The father carrying the remains of his infant son to the cemetery.

Minister of the Ministry o f H e a l t h , D r. F r a n k A n t h o n y, o n M o n d a y apologised after reports surfaced that a man was forced to walk half of a mile from the Mabaruma Hospital to a cemetery located in the Region One district to bury his infant son who had died from COVID-19.

Dr. Anthony made the apology on behalf of his Ministry during his televised COVID-19 update yesterday.

A c c o r d i n g t o information received, the father had requested a drop from local drivers but because of their fear of catching the virus, they refused.

The father was

He noted that the basis for challenging the DPP's decision is because they have statements, which confirm Boston was murdered. Hughes added that the only thing they did not have was the name of the rank that allegedly shot and killed Boston in his bed.

In fact, the lawyer stated that now that they have the rank's name, one of two things will happen, “either

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC.

A litterbug in action on Wellington Street.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony police and the Ministry of Health and somebody ought to have assisted the family in getting the body to the cemetery.”

However, he noted that there was “mix-up between (Continued on page 16)

T

wo men were reportedly arrested by police late yesterday for illegally dumping garbage at two city locations – Robb Street and Wellington Street – that were cleaned during a recent two-day cleaning exercise across the Georgetown.

Their arrests came just one day after President Mohamed Irfaan Ali promised to install cameras and deploy policemen to safeguard areas.

Following the clean-up exercise, “litterbugs” began dumping garbage again illegally.

Photographs began surfacing on various social (Continued on page 17)

PAGE 16

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FOR RENT 2 bedroom apartment, Betterhope E.C.D $55,000 between 8am-5pm. Tel:6173001.

Middle St,Wellington St,Bar St Kitty Georgetown. Contact: Ray's Realty 627-9685.

PROPERTY FOR SALE F & L Hardware Depo,no Agent.Tel:642-6056/6649701.

Sheriff St,Republic Park, Ogle,Diamond,Enterprise C,Windsor Forest, Zeelught West Coast. Contact Ray's Realty 627-9685.

PENPAL

WANTED Porters & Salesgirls.Apply at Best Buy Food Supplies with written application at 1E Dennis C Middleton St Camp bellville Georgetown.

Wanted experience taxi driver at Princess Hotel. Contact:616-5419,265-7075,2657076.

Urgently Needed! Dried carilla bush.Contact:6098281/693-3003.

Females ages 25-40 to take care of elderly male in Trinidad,accomodations provided.Call:+1(868)-3864621.

One Receptionist/Secretary with experience & Security Officer with military experience. Contact:608-2444/5030359 or send CV ajsabmining @gmail.com.

Live in general domestic 3045 yrs,salary $30,000 wkly.Tel: 610-3974.

Looking for honest & reliable person for light work and to look after person,live in work age 40 up.Tel:231-4933.

1 maid,1 cook.Contact name Pansy.Contact number:2264948.

Security Supervisor Wanted.

Must have Military Background, must have own vehicle age 35-50.Call:231-6052.

Motor Lorry drivers needed and Porters. Tel:627-1835/ 626-4691.

One plane operator & one woodmizer operator. Tel: 2642524/624-7088.

Urgently Needed! Agriculturist, Planters,Growers & Cultivators.Contact Marshal Farming Corp 665-0921.

African Guyanese male seeks a loving female companion( 30 and above) to live with.Call:603-9085.

Male seeks female,ages 18-35 ,for relationship.Call:- 6950331.

VACANCY One clerk for TSI Eccles Office,English & Maths grade 1 or 2.Call:615-9132 or email application to tech serigy@yahoo.com.

LAND FOR SALE Cummings lodge 2acres ,Providence,Friendship, Eccles,IndustrialSite, Yarakabra Highway,Cornelia Ida.Contact Ray's Realty 6279685.

Maid to cook and clean for East Bank areaa.Call:6159132.

Cook/Baker/Pitmen and Hauler Operator for interior location. Applicants must be experienced.Call:618-2020 or 231-2250.

Kitchen assistant & counter attendants,salary $15,000 wkly.Drop application to German's Restaurant lot 8 New Market St North Cummingsburg G/Town.

Teachers for Grade 4 & 5.Submit email educationgy 3@gmail.com.

Taxi & Minibus drivers, work and keep.Tel:628-1183/2253234.

Vacancy exists for Sales Woman,Counter Attendant @Dian's Deli Bar St Kitty.Tel:225-3700.

Vacancy exist for experienced Water Delivery Driver and Porter E.C.D.Tel:692-6768/ 676-1363.

Experienced Sales Girl. Apply in person at Alabama Trading,65 Robb St Bourda.

One salesman,able bodied porters.Experience in writing bills,stocktaking & cashing.

Keyfood Trading,Mc Doom village.

From page 8 will not cause any setbacks as it relates to the work of the GRA department located on the Laparkan premises.

“I have asked Laparkan to try to get power back to the front office so that our operations could continue,” Statia stated.

This newspaper understands that the fire started on the northern side of the bond.

A senior member of staff, who requested anonymity, told this publication that a ship arrived Sunday and a few staffers had worked late offloading it.

At around 22:30 hours, the staffers completed their task and left the premises. It was shortly after the blaze

After three years of pumping...

From page 3 recommended further collaboration with the EPA and potential stakeholders on the feasibility of expanding environmental testing services in Guyana to support commercial and government environmental data needs. ABOUT CWMP The Comprehensive Waste Management Plan (CWMP) is a document based on a holistic review of EEPGL's maturing waste management process.

The CWMP was developed pursuant to Section Five of the Payara Development Project Environmental Permit and the Cradle to Grave Waste Analysis Study approved by the Environmental Protection Agency on September 13, 2021. The Plan is intended to accommodate all projects in Guyana associated with EEPGL's exploration and appraisal drilling, development drilling, installation and hookup, commissioning, and start

up, office construction, production operations, and related activities.

The plan is inclusive of the Liza Phase One Development Project, Liza Phase Two Development Project which comes on stream this quarter, the Payara Development Project, the Guyana Fiber Optic Cable, and EEPGL's Guyana Office Complex Project, as well as permitted or planned drilling projects. In addition, the plan makes provision for projects currently under review by the EPA, including Yellowtail and the Gas to Energy Project.

As new projects are planned or come on stream, Exxon said the plan will be updated to address them. Kaieteur News understands that the plan, once approved, will replace and supersede previous waste management plans incorporated in approved Environmental Impact Statements and permits for ExxonMobil.

Minister apologies after man...

From page 15 staffers at the Ministry and the police and therefore, they could not get the vehicle in a timely manner”.

As a result of the mix-up, family members reportedly pro-

ceeded to bury the infant. Dr. Anthony has since assured that a thorough investigation will be carried out into the matter and measures will be put in place to avoid a reoccurrence.

erupted.

The staffer also revealed that hazardous oil chemicals for the American oil giant, ExxonMobil, were stored in the bond where the fire occurred.

A security guard who was on duty explained that at about 23:30hrs, he saw smoke emanating from the northern side of the Laparkan bond and he contacted the fire service.

Fire Chief (ag), Gregory Wickham, who was at the scene yesterday, told reporters that the fire service could not provide any information, at the time, as to the cause of the fire but he assured that this will be disclosed when an investigation is completed.

“As soon as they would have completed that we will give a release so that members of the public would know what was the cause of the fire,” Fire Chief Wickham said.

A subsequent release from the fire service revealed that a call was received at 23:37 hours Sunday about a fire at Lot 1-9 Lombard Street, Georgetown.

“Water Tenders #102 & #105 from Central Fire Station, #106 from Campbellville Fire Station, #107 from West Ruimveldt Fire Station, #112 from Alberttown Fire Station and Fire Boat #8, immediately responded to the location

with the first appliance arriving at 23:42 hrs,” the release added.

It went on to note that, “Some appliances were able to bring the fire under control and subsequently extinguish it.”

The structure involved, according to release, was a two-storey wooden, concrete and steel building owned by GNIC and used as shipping companies, namely Tropical Shipping Company and Laparkan Trading Company.

As a result of the fire, the Tropical Shipping Company sustained water damage and minor fire damage.

Also destroyed were propane cylinders, a quantity of barrels containing food stuff, clothing, household appliances and other items.

The Laparkan Shipping Company suffered the loss of one Bobcat machine, a quantity of office furniture, gas cylinders, crates of energy drinks, three 40-foot containers containing electrical cables and flex hoses, three electrical transformers and three 40-foot refrigeration containers.

Eleven vehicles were also destroyed while five were severely damaged and three others were slightly damaged.

US$6M to repair Demerara...

From page 8 of span nine and 10 and the replacement of span nine is approximately $1.2 billion.

We were scheduled to finish the project by December 2021, but because of consideration for users of the bridge, we are now projecting somewhere between April,” Watson explained.

He noted that in order to complete the works on the bridge, there will be more bridge closures scheduled.

According to Watson, for this project, 16 six-hour closures have been scheduled to facilitate the works and to date, they have only completed five.

The 44-year-old bridge, which has already outlived its lifespan, will be replaced with the construction of a new US$257 million bridge, which will be constructed by China State Construction Engineer-

ing Corporation Limited.

With the new bridge expected to be completed in the next two years, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill stated that the current bridge will not be “an old iron pushed in a corner.

It will be properly used for the development of Guyana.”

Edghill added that there are many places where sections of the bridge can be used. “It could be used in the Kwakwani crossing, it could be used in several parts of the hinterland, maybe some of it could be used at Kurupukari but we are looking at more permanent infrastructure for the Linden to Lethem road. So we might be looking at a more permanent concrete structure across the Kurupukari but maybe it could link Leguan and Wakenaam,” the Minister said.

Tuesday January 18, 2022

PAGE 17

Kaieteur News

Business icon Yesu Persaud...

From page 14 statement said the entire IPED family is mourning his passing. IPED described their founder who is also a Cacique Crown of Honour (CCH) recipient as a leader, mentor, guide and friend. “While Dr. Persaud's achievements as a business executive, and as a person, make for an astonishing list, in the IPED family, he will be mostly remembered for his vision that led to the direct transformation of thousands o f f amilies all acr o s s Guyana,” IPED said. “In the most difficult of times, Dr. Persaud understood that it was necessary to find ways to recreate and nurture small and micro businesses in the country. While his business acumen is unchallenged, Dr. Persaud's greatest desire was to help people to help themselves,” IPED underscored.

“The small and micro businesses that needed financing and guidance were mostly in families and so his understanding at the business level and the passion in his heart for people were combined into the Institute of Private Enterprise Development Limited that is still thriving and helping people today. Dr. Yesu Persaud has left the IPED family with a sustainable organisation and with a network of almost 5,000 small and micro enterprises that are themselves sustainable. Many of these businesses are fulfilling his vision every day as they take advantage of every new opportunity to grow. As we extend our sincerest heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, they can be assured that Dr. Yesu Persaud will forever be alive in businesses across the length and breadth of Guyana, with future generations paying tribute to him long after this generation, like him, falls silent.” The Staff and Students of the University of Guyana School of Medicine (UGSM) also expressed deep

sadness of the passing of Dr. Persaud. UGSM said Dr. Persaud was not only an inspirational and iconic figure in Guyana's business community and Guyanese society, but he was also one of the School's greatest benefactors. “His passing is a great loss to the people of Guyana, but his legacy will live on in the achievements of those whose lives he touched…”

Footprints everywhere According to political party, the Alliance For Change, Dr. Persaud was an outstanding man whose footprint can be found in every continent – embodied in the work and lives of the thousands who were fortunate to benefit from his generosity, mentoring, and the various programmes, causes and initiatives he championed such as in education and health services.

“Apart from being the driving force and business tycoon behind Demerara Distilleries Ltd (DDL), and its world renowned El Dorado rum, the Institute for Private Enterprise Development (IPED), the Demerara Bank and the Diamond Fire and Life Insurance Co., Dr. Persaud used his quiet influence and diplomacy to promote and foster good governance, stronger democratic principles and social cohesion here in his beloved Guyana.”

“On an individual level, he offered himself as a mentor to anyone willing to take time to learn from his many struggles and achievements that were endured and earned through many decades of experienced life. Not many Guyanese can claim to possess the qualities and achievements of a man who we call a National Hero.

Quiet, humble, confident and unassuming, Yesu Persaud was a true giant among men.

The AFC salutes the passing of a true hero and once again calls on the government to

formulate strict and transparent guidelines for the awarding of National Hero status on deserving sons as daughters such as Dr. Yesu Persaud.” Support for sugar industry The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) in paying tribute said the union and Dr. Persaud's relations span several decades and started during his stint in the sugar industry. As one of the bargaining agents of the DDL, “our relations were consolidated and undoubtedly his involvement led to several improvements to the workers conditions-ofwork. We have always admired his humility and his desire to ensure that workers were treated fairly. We believe this must have been influenced by his own life on the sugar plantation. The GAWU sees this as one of the many outstanding qualities of the late Dr. Persaud.”

The GAWU recollecting his support to the sugar industry said, “He was among those who brought the industry into the hands of the State. Later, he denounced efforts to privatise it during the Hoyte Administration.

His contribution to the restoration of democracy is also remembered at this time.

Indeed, this was yet one of his many contributions to the Guyanese people. At this time, the GAWU extends its sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Yesu Persaud. We also send our sympathies to the Management and Staff of the DDL and the other organisations to which he was affiliated. Certainly, our country has lost another outstanding son of the soil.”

Selfless innovator Leader of the Opposition, Joseph Harmon described Dr. P e r s a u d a s a true icon and son of the soil. “ D r. P e r s a u d w a s a businessman who always distinguished himself with his successful business ventures and highly impactful civic and

Two litterbugs arrested From page 15 media platforms of refuse that were dumped at different sites. Police on Sunday had identified two of these locations as Durey Layne, Campbellville and at D'Urban Park along Homestretch Avenue.The Force reported that they would commence investigations to catch the “litter bugs”. A warning was even issued advising persons to desist from such acts.However, it seems as though the warning fell on deaf ears because cameras in the city were able to capture two “litter bugs” in action.One of them was caught on a surveillance camera dumping garbage while another was captured by someone's cell phone camera.

Police upon receiving information began

the hunt for the litterbugs and eventually c a u g h t t h e m .

Kaieteur News understands that before the day ended, cops were able to capture a third litterbug.President Ali had called the litterbugs “uncaring and selfish” for their disregard for rules and regulations and the environment.According to Ali, in addition to the recent clean-up campaign, the government is currently working on an urban renewal plan to transform the city.

He had explained that while Georgetown is not a big city, one of its beauties is that it is a “walking city”—whereby citizens can easily walk around and get their business done.

His vision is for persons to do so in a safe, clean and conducive environment.

In October 2020, President Irfaan Ali commissioned the Dr. Yesu Persaud Clinical Education Centre at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. philanthropic works; he was celebrated for his outstanding contributions to business and philanthropy, in Guyana and abroad. Dr. Persaud, a Golden Arrow of Achievement recipient for his works in developing and expanding the Distilling Industry in Guyana and the Cacique Crown of Honour recipient for development of new industries has truly left his mark on the landscape of this country, and Guyanese will always remember him as an innovator and one that gave selflessly to his country.

The APNU+AFC would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Family and friends of Dr. Yesu Persaud during what must be a difficult time,' Harmon said in a message.

Great achievements The High Commission of India, which Dr. Persaud collaborated with on numerous occasions for cultural projects, said he was an illustrious son and an outstanding businessman of Guyana. “The High Commission also conveys condolences to his family, friends and all Guyanese citizens in Guyana and abroad on this great loss to Guyana as a nation and to the s o c i e t y. ” H i g h Commissioner of India, H.E. Dr. K.J. Srinivasa, fondly recalled that Dr. Persaud was a well known and a distinguished personality in Guyana. “His life is the best example and a model to follow, how a person from humble beginnings could make phenomenal rise and become Guyana's leading businessmen and a highly respected individual, solely through his hard work. “A true testimony of the heights to which determination can propel humans, the Dr. Yesu Persaud story is nothing short of impressing with him being honoured for his outstanding contributions, business and philanthropy, in Guyana and abroad.” Dr. Yesu Persaud, popularly known as the “El Dorado Man” was also the force behind the creation of the Institute for Private Enterprise Development and founder of Guyana's first indigenous bank, Demerara Bank Limited. He is

described as an innovative leader and results focused person. His work spans many continents, two centuries and several successful business ventures, while his civic and philanthropic work has been and continues to be highly impactful.” High Commissioner Dr. Srinivasa also reminisced that in 2006, the Government of India honoured him with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman for his outstanding contributions to business and Indian history and culture.

Dr. Persaud is a founding member of the Indian Arrival Committee. “He is one of the main persons responsible for creating the Monument Garden which marks the arrival of the first batch of Indian indentured labourers to Guyana in 1838. He is one of the founder members and life member of the Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO). The Indian diaspora in Guyana has been playing a crucial role in the economic, political and social development of the country,” the statement read.The Indian Commemorative Trust led by Dr. Persaud has been contributing immensely to the welfare and wellbeing of the Indian Diaspora community in Guyana.

“India is very proud of the achievements by the IndoGuyanese Diaspora and their role in the development of Guyana. While India is celebrating its 75th Independence Anniversary India@75 from March 2021 to August 2023 as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, the Government of India greatly values and recognises the contribution of distinguished personalities like Dr. Yesu Persaud for his outstanding role in the development of the Indian diaspora and Indian culture in Guyana.”

Also, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) expressed its deepest condolences on the passing of Dr. Persaud, a true visionary and an ardent humanitarian. The GMSA noted, “Indeed, Guyana has lost a great soul. Dr. Yesu Persaud has contributed immeasurably to the growth

and reputation of his nation.

His life and legacy is as inspiring as it is decorated.

Dr. Persaud had forged the company of Demerara Distillers Ltd. (DDL) into a Guyanese institution with products of international recognition and praise, he envisaged and founded Guyana's first indigenous bank, Demerara Bank Ltd. and was the architect of the Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED), an organisation that supported the development of thousands of small businesses across Guyana.

Moreover, his philanthropic legacy extends far and wide, even beyond the reaches of the land in which he was born.”

Dr. Yesu Persaud served as president of the GMSA, then known as the Guyana Manufacturers Association (GMA) in 1992 where he brought his skills and experience and worked tirelessly for Guyanese manufacturers. “He was also one of the initial conceivers of a single Private Sector Commission that would represent and further the interests of local private sector and function as the interface with the Government and International Funding agencies,” the statement added. His work for Private Sector development was instrumental and his contributions to the development of Guyanese society remains unparalleled, GMSA added. “He truly led a life worthy of emulation, one that will inspire many for generations to come. In his memory, we wish to echo some words that he had shared with the GMSA a few years ago: 'Whatever you do must be done well or don't do it at all.' – This was his mantra. 'I am my own person.

I think I know what is good for the development of my country and I will pursue it to my end'.”

Moreover, the GMSA expressed deepest sympathies to Dr. Persaud's family, friends, co-workers and all others whom he would have touched over the span of his long and fruitful life.

PAGE 18

Cops find stolen car at Happy Acres workshop Ranks from the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) on Monday found a taxi driver’s stolen car in a workshop located at Happy Acres on the East Coast Demerara.

The car belongs to Steve Mootooveren whose white Toyota Allion motorcar was hijacked around 19:30hrs on Friday last by two gunmen at an area located in South Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

Kaieteur News had reported that the bandits might have used an “innocent looking, beautiful woman” to lure the Mootooveren into trap. She was the one who hired him for a drop to the location where he was hijacked and had reportedly vanished after the car was stolen. Sources close to investigation, revealed that detectives were able to locate the stolen car after following some leads they received and might have stumbled upon an ‘organised criminal ring’ that steals cars and resell them.

Their investigation led them to a workshop at Happy Acres. At the time of their arrival, they met a man in the process of spraying over a Toyota Allion motorcar. The paint job was almost done but the investigators decided to check the engine number of the car and it corresponded with that of Mootoovern’s stolen car.

Kaieteur News was told that the detectives were lucky enough to arrive before the thieves could have scraped of the engine number. According to information received by this media house, they had

Tuesday January 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

K/News security guards’ matter continues on February 7

Mootooveren’s car before it was stolen

Remanded, Yan Licorish (left) and Tony Waldron.

Mootooveren’s stolen car with a different licence plate after it was recovered. already “changed up” the entire car. Apart from paint job, mag rims were installed along with other accessories to give the car a new look. The licence plate was also changed. Detectives arrested the owner of the workshop and the man who was spraying the stolen car when they

arrived. A third person was later arrested after he was identified as the one who took the car to the workshop.

Kaieteur News understands that he has since been identified as one of the armed suspects that hijacked the car from Mootooveren on Friday last.

The continuation of the paper committal for the Kaieteur News security guards, who are jointly charged with murder, will get underway next month before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly.

On the last hearing of the matter in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, the Magistrate was not present and as such the matter was adjourned to February 7, 2022, when the matter will continue before Senior Magistrate Daly.

Kaieteur News had reported that the two security guards, Yan Licorish and Tony Waldron, who are on remand for allegedly killing a homeless man, would go through a paper committal process. This process sees the witnesses’ statements and documentary evidence

being put forward to the court without the witnesses being present. This information is inventoried and marked as exhibits.

It was reported that based on the written records, the Magistrate will take approximately 45 days before a ruling is given on whether there is sufficient evidence for a prima facie case to be made out for the defendants to stand trial in the High Court.

This process is one of two methods that are used by Magistrates for serious offences like murder and the other method is a preliminary inquiry (PI).

Making their first court appearance in March 2021, Licorish and Waldron were not required to plead to the charge which alleges that between March 15, 2021 and

March, 16, 2021 at Kaieteur News’ Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown office, they murdered 58-yearold Mohabir Singh called ‘Emile’.

According to reports, on March 16, 2021 around 08:30hrs, the lifeless body of Singh was found by an employee under a shed on the Kaieteur News’ premises. The employee had gone to remove a truck when he discovered Singh’s body lying in its tray.

The investigation into the man’s death led to the arrest of the two security guards who were charged subsequently with murder. This publication had reported that Singh, who died as a result of a brain haemorrhage, had been homeless for some 25 years due to his drug addiction.

Lawyers want judicial review...

From page 15 mission to go to Boston's house, a man who had no previous antecedents or any history with the police.

“They entered his premises, heavily armed with ARS and other automatic weapons, and then discharged a round at him while he was in a lying position in his bed…,” the lawyer highlighted.

Kaieteur News had reported that on January 14, 2021, Peters appeared via Zoom from the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts before Magistrate Esther Sam. He was not required to plead to the indictable charge that was read to him and the police prosecutor made an objection to bail being granted to the defendant, based on the ground that a life was lost.

However, bail was set at $1 million and the matter was adjourned to February 1, 2022.

Around 04:00hrs on the day of the killing, the accused was part of a team that was reportedly conducting a police operation for 'illegal sub-

stances' 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.

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 protest action on the Essequibo Coast.

Corruption benefits the rich and powerful at the expense of the poor.

Say no to it.

Tuesday January 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 19

PAGE 20

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 18, 2022

Tuesday January 18, 2022

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup West Indies 2022...

England make statement with convincing victory over defending champs Bangladesh Bangladesh’s defence of their ICC Under19 Men’s Cricket World Cup title got off to a poor start as they slipped to a seven-wicket defeat against England in their Group A opener.

England’s bowling attack decimated the Bangladesh batting line-up as the reigning champions were reduced to 51 for nine in the 25th over at Warner Park in St Kitts and Nevis.

No.11 Ripon Mondol hit 33 not out in a spirited lastwicket stand of 46 with Naimur Rohman (11) to drag Bangladesh up to 97, but they were still dismissed with the

best part of 15 overs going to waste.

In reply, the Young Lions lost opener George Thomas and captain Tom Prest but Jacob Bethell and James Rew put on 65 before the former was run out just shy of the finish line as England cruised to victory.

Bangladesh captain Rakibul Hasan was part of the side that lifted the trophy in South Africa in 2020 and elected to bat after winning the toss.

Seamer Joshua Boyden had openers Mahfijul Islam (3) and Ariful Islam (4) caught behind by wicket-keeper Alex

Horton and Bangladesh were reeling at seven for three in the eighth over when James Sales got in on the act as No.3 Prantik Nawrose Nabil departed without scoring to give Horton his third victim.

William Luxton ran out Md Fahim to make it eight for four before first-change bowler Thomas Aspinwall got his reward for running in and hitting the deck hard when he had Ashiqur Zaman caught by Luxton for nine.

Left-arm spinner Fateh Singh picked up his first scalp of the tournament when Aich Mollah was caught by Sales for 13 to leave Bangladesh 31

Tuesday Junuary 18, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) If you have been having problems in your relationship or love life in general, Aries, don't expect things to get any better today.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) There's no need to go pounding your head against a wall, Libra, your day will be challenging, but it's nothing you can't handle.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) This could be a very studious day for you, Taurus; actually, it might be better to call it laborious. But you love to work, and you will get all the work you can handle today.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today, you may find you have a certain gift for productivity.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You probably pay a great deal of attention to what other people think of you, Gemini. It may often be hard for you to make decisions in delicate situations for fear of being misjudged, even if you know you must.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) You probably enjoy exploring the innermost recesses of your own human nature, Cancer. Yet today you may need to be a bit more rational.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) On days like today it's important to take time out to reflect upon the events of the past few days, Leo. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Over the last few weeks, you may have made some good progress in learning to express your emotions, Virgo.

The great thing is that you probably didn't even notice.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Today the people around you could seem much more serious than usual, Sagittarius. You could even decide to get away from them and go hide out just for the day, for example, in a movie theater watching an afternoon film.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You could find the atmosphere today a bit oppressive, Capricorn. The time has come to deal with some of the important questions you may have been avoiding for quite some time.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You may be a specialist at manipulating concepts and ideas and using your analytical skills to understand any problem that comes your way.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today begins an exciting period in your personal life, Pisces. It's time for new beginnings in your relationship.

Joshua Boyden picked up a four wickets for only 16 runs. (ICC via Getty) for six in the 17th over.

They then belatedly brought up their half-century before losing three wickets for just one run.

Horton took his tally to six catches behind the stumps as Aspinwall took his second wicket and left-armer Boyden picked up two more as he recorded impressive figures of

four for 16 from nine overs.

Ripon’s counter-attacking 33 included five fours and a six as the tailender added a modicum of respectability to the Bangladesh total.

Boyden dropped a catch at fine leg to deny Sales another wicket, but England did not panic and eventually a superb diving grab from Rew

off the skipper Prest’s offspin saw the back of Naimur after the last two had hung around for 11 overs.

England got off to a slightly nervy start with the bat as Bethell survived a runout scare when SM Meherob could not gather the ball at the stumps with only five on the board. He survived a close lbw appeal off Ashiqur shortly after before opening partner Thomas began to up the ante after a cautious start.

But having hit three fours, Thomas perished for 15 when he miscued another attacking shot off Ripon to leave England 20 for one in the ninth over.

That breakthrough gave Bangladesh a small glimmer of hope but when the English captain Prest nicked one behind off his counterpart Rakibul for just four soon after, the game was very much on.

However, Rew joined Bethell and together they batted superbly, counteracting the Bangladesh spin attack to alleviate any potential English nerves.

Bethell eventually paid for some hesitant running which had been a feature of his innings - but by the time he was run out by Ariful for a well-made 44 from 63 balls the game was all but over.

Luxton strode out to the crease and promptly hit his first ball down the ground for six before Rew, 26 not out off 39 balls, hit the winning runs off the first ball of the 26th over.

England picked up a comfortable two points to go top of Group A ahead of their match against Canada on Tuesday while Bangladesh will look to bounce back on Thursday against the same opponents, who lost to the UAE in their opener on Saturday.

Scores: England 98 for 3 (Bethell 44, Rew 26*) beat Bangladesh 97(Mondol 33*, Boyden 4-16, Aspinwall 2-18) by seven wickets.

BCB /RHTYSC/ Vitality Inc hands ...

From page 23 official engagement, stated that he was delighted for the small Henry family and expressed thanks to Vitality Inc for their support. The BCB, Foster stated would not have only fulfilled its duty to make Berbice cricket the best but would also make a positive difference in the lives of others under a series of community activities. Special emphasis, he stated would be placed on extreme poverty and education.

PAGE 22

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 18, 2022

NFL roundup: Defending champion Bucs

take down Eagles Reuters - Tom Brady threw for two touchdowns as the second-seeded Tampa Bay Buccaneers opened defence of their Super Bowl crown Sunday with a smooth 31-15 victory over the seventh-seeded Philadelphia Eagles in an NFC wild-card playoff game in Tampa, Fla. Brady completed 29 of 37 passes for 271 yards in an efficient performance, enabling Tampa Bay to stay home next weekend for a conference semifinal. Mike Evans caught nine passes for 117 yards and a score. Philadelphia’s Jalen Hurts struggled for most of his first playoff start, connecting on 23 of 43 passes for 258 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions. The Eagles weren’t able to run the ball successfully until the game was out of reach, enabling the Buccaneers to tee off on

Hurts.The Buccaneers set an immediate tone by marching 75 yards on the game’s first possession. Giovani Bernard got the score on a 2-yard run with 10 minutes left in the first quarter.Tampa Bay will play host next Sunday afternoon to the winner of last night’s game between the Arizona Cardinals and Los Angeles Rams.49ers 23, Cowboys 17 Elijah Mitchell ran for 96 yards and a touchdown while the San Francisco defence overcame the loss of star end Nick Bosa to hold Dallas in check during the NFC wildcard round in Arlington, Texas.

San Francisco quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo hit 16 of 25 passes for 172 yards with an interception for the sixthseeded 49ers, who will travel to top-seeded Green Bay next weekend to play in the NFC divisional round. San

Francisco’s Deebo Samuel added 110 yards from scrimmage, 72 on the ground, with a touchdown. Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott completed 23 of 43 passes for 254 yards with a touchdown and an interception. He was also sacked five times. Dallas’ last chance ended when Prescott ran 17 yards up the middle to the 49ers’ 24-yard line and could not spike the ball to stop the clock before time expired. Chiefs 42, Steelers 21 Patrick Mahomes passed for 404 yards and five touchdowns as Kansas City began its bid for a third straight conference title by downing visiting Pittsburgh in the AFC wild-card round. The loss likely will be the last NFL game for the Steelers’ Ben Roethlisberger, who is expected to announce his retirement. The 39-year-old quar-

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) trows a pass in the first half against the Philadelphia Eagles in a NFC Wild Card playoff football game at Raymond James Stadium. (Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports)a terback started slowly before seeded No. 2 after winning visional round, hosting the finishing with 215 yards pass- nine of its last 10 regular-sea- Buffalo Bills. Buffalo won at ing, going 29 of 44 with two son games, will play at home Kansas City 38-20 in Week 5.

(Field Level Media) touchdowns. Kansas City, again next Sunday in the di-

Burkina Faso through in Africa Cup of Nations after 1-1

draw against Ethiopia BBC Sport - Burkina Faso secured second spot in Group A at the Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-1 draw against Ethiopia.

Cyrille Bayala lobbed keeper Teklemariam Shanko in the 25th minute to give the Stallions the lead.

Ethiopia captain Getaneh Kebede equalised from the

penalty spot seven minutes after half-time after Steeve Yago was penalised for handball. Burkina Faso will face the runners-up from Group C - either Morocco, Gabon or Ghana - in the last 16 on Sunday. The Burkinabe and Cape Verde both finished on four points in Group A, but the Stallions took second place

on head-to-head record.

Cameroon topped the group on seven points after a 1-1 draw with Cape Verde, with Ethiopia bottom on one.

Ethiopia fail to find winner Ethiopia needed to win in Bafoussam to have a chance of progressing and the East Africans had the better of the

game, with Burkina Faso lacking fluency in attack despite the return of captain Bertrand Traore from Covid-19.

Stand-in Stallions keeper Farid Ouedraogo, starting after first-choice Herve Koffi tested positive for coronavirus, made three good saves to keep Ethiopia at bay in the first half. The domestic-based back-up dived to his right to keep out a strong effort from Kebede and later gathered Dawa Hotessa’s low

shot at the second attempt with the game still goalless.

Hassane Bande had missed a glorious chance to put Burkina Faso ahead, failing to connect properly at close range, but the West Africans broke the deadlock when Adama Guira sent a ball over the top of the Ethiopia defence and Bayala converted from the edge of the area with Shanko stranded.

Ouedraogo stuck out his right foot to divert a low shot

from Kebede behind 10 minutes before the break but he could not get near the striker’s composed penalty, awarded following a video assistant referee review after Yago handled Surafel Dagnachew’s free-kick at the near post. Ethiopia probed in search of an equaliser yet could not find the goal which may have given them the opportunity to go through as one of four third-ranked sides.

East Coast Cricket Board to hold net sessions for U-15 players The East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB) is informing all clubs in the ECCB association that extensive net sessions for under15 players will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at the LBI Cricket ground from 10:00 am.

Players must be born on or after September 01, 2008 and must be fully vaccinated in order to be eligible for this session.

They are required to walk with their birth certificate and vaccination card to the venue on Saturday.

Interested clubs are asked to contact Mr Raymon Barton on 626-0223 to submit their list of players by Friday January 21, 2022 to be registered.

Tuesday January 18, 2022

NBA roundup: Full-strength Jazz take down Nuggets Reuters - Donovan Mitchell scored 31 points, Rudy Gobert returned to action with 18 points and 19 rebounds, and the visiting Utah Jazz beat the Denver Nuggets 125-102 on Sunday night.

Bojan Bogdanovic scored 21 points for Utah, while Jordan Clarkson had 16, Royce O’Neale finished with 11 and Eric Paschall scored 10.

Gobert missed the last five games while in health and safety protocol and the Jazz struggled without him. Utah lost four straight and earned its first victory since winning at Denver on Jan. 5.

Nikola Jokic had 25 points, 15 rebounds and 14 assists for the Nuggets.

Aaron Gordon scored 20 points, Will Barton finished with 16 and Bones Hyland and Monte Morris scored 13 each.

Timberwolves 119, Warriors 99 Karl-Anthony Towns put up a 26-point, 11-rebound double-double, and host Minnesota took advantage of the absence of Golden State stars Stephen Curry and Draymond Green to post a victory at Minneapolis.

Jaylen Nowell (17 points) and Malik Beasley (16) combined for eight 3-pointers off the bench, helping the Timberwolves win for the fifth time in their past seven games.

The Warriors, who were without Green (strained lower back/calf) all four games of their 1-3 trip, sent Curry home a night early with right-hand soreness he experienced in Friday’s win at Chicago. Jordan Poole had 20 points Sunday to pace Golden State.

Suns 135, Pistons 108 Devin Booker scored 30 points in 30 minutes, and visiting Phoenix rolled past De-

Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) gets around Golden State Warriors forward Juan Toscano-Anderson (95) in the fourth quarter at Target Center. (Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports) troit. Booker made 11 of 18 field-goal attempts and sat out the fourth quarter. Teammate Cameron Payne had 20 points, five rebounds and five assists, and fellow reserve JaVale McGee supplied 20 points on 9-of-10 shooting from the field. Detroit’s Cade Cunningham, the top pick in the 2021 draft, was ejected after being assessed two technicals during the third quarter. The second technical came after he pointed toward a Suns player after dunking, which the officials interpreted as taunting. Cunningham scored 21 points in 25 minutes.

Rockets 118, Kings 112 Christian Wood posted his 20th double-double of the season and Eric Gordon converted a teammate’s timely offensive rebound into a basket in the waning moments as

Houston beat host Sacramento. Wood had 23 points and 14 rebounds while Kevin Porter Jr. added 23 points and seven assists to help the Rockets hold on. Houston survived when Jalen Green snagged an offensive rebound after Porter had missed a 3-pointer and Gordon followed with a driving layup with 12.5 seconds left for a 116-112 lead.

Green and Gordon scored 15 points apiece for the Rockets while Garrison Mathews added 17 off the bench, drawing a flagrant-2 foul on Kings guard De’Aaron Fox that led to his ejection with 8:14 left to play. Buddy Hield scored 27 points on 9-of-16 shooting from the field off the Sacramento bench while Terence Davis added 17 points and Harrison Barnes 12.

(Field Level Media)

West Indies U-19s get first points of World Cup with seven wicket win over Scotland U-19s SportsMax - West Indies Under-19s defeated Scotland Under-19s by seven wickets at Warner Park to secure their first win in the ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup yesterday.

West Indies Under-19s won the toss and bowled first. That proved to be a good decision as the Scottish batsmen were unable to withstand a quality bowling performance from the West Indians, eventually being bowled out for 95 in 35.1 overs.

Opening bowler Shiva

Sankar, who was voted man of the match, led the bowling for the home side with 3-17 from his seven overs. Spinners Onaje Amory and Anderson Mahase took 2-26 off 10 overs and 2-16 off 5.1 overs, respectively.

The West Indies had a relatively easy chase, losing just three wickets in their pursuit of 96 for victory.

Openers Shaqkere Parris (26) and Matthew Nandu (8) as well as wicket-keeper/batsman Rivaldo Clarke (13) were the batsmen out.

Teddy Bishop and Jordan

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Kaieteur News

Johnson finished not out on 23 and 14, respectively, to help the West Indies successfully chase their target in 19.4 overs. West Indies Under-19s, Australia Under19s, and Sri Lanka Under-19s now all have two points with the West Indies leading the group on net run rate. Sri Lanka Under-19s and Australia Under-19s were locked in battle in the other Group D match on the day with the Aussies being bowled out for 175 and Sri Lanka on 443, from nine overs, in pursuit of their target.

Novak Djokovic can’t play French Open unless vaccinated, French Sports Ministry says Yahoo Sports - It’s another day of bad news for Novak Djokovic. The No. 1ranked men’s singles player might not be allowed to play at the French Open, the next Grand Slam on the schedule, because of his vaccination status.

Djokovic lost his appeal on Sunday to play in the Australian Open, closing a nearly two-week long saga over his unvaccinated status and attempt to enter the country with a visa and exemption. It is the first Grand Slam on the calendar as he chases a 21st Grand Slam victory that would break a tie with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal for most men’s titles of all-time.

Also on Sunday, the French parliament overwhelmingly approved a law requiring vaccination for anyone at restaurants, sports arenas and other venues. Previously unvaccinated persons were allowed to enter with a valid negative test. That includes the French Open and the French Sports Ministry confirmed yesterday there would be no exemptions.

French Open up in air for Djokovic The French Sports Ministry confirmed there would be no exemptions to Reuters, but said the overall situation might change before

the draw in May. Via Reuters: “This will apply to everyone who is a spectator or a professional sportsperson. And this until further notice,” the ministry said. “As far as Roland Garros is concerned, it’s in May. The situation may change between now and then and we hope it’ll be more favourable. So we’ll see but clearly there’s no exemption.”

Australia allowed exemptions as granted by an expert independent panel. Djokovic received initial clearance for a visa, but was detained and the information found to be insufficient. The star appealed to no avail and was deported ahead of Day 1 of the tournament. Australia is experiencing rising cases after two years of strict measures and border restrictions. France is 90% vaccinated. Alexander Zverev, the No. 3 ranked player in the world appreciated the clear stance from the French Open. “At least it’s clear what’s going to happen,” he told reporters on Monday, via Reuters. “At least they’re saying, ‘OK, no unvaccinated players are allowed to play in the French Open.’ “We know that now in advance, and I can imagine there’s not going to be any exemptions, and that’s OK.”

The German defeated Daniel Altmaier 7-6 (3), 6-1, 7-6 (1) to move into the second round of the Australian Open.

When will Djokovic play next? Djokovic is next scheduled for the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships held Feb. 21-26. Vaccination is not required. A spokesperson told Reuters players wouldn’t be allowed to enter the United Arab Emirates unless they provided a negative PCR test.

They would then need to follow all applicable testing protocols and processes outlined by the tennis organizations.

The Monte Carlo Masters, which Djokovic has won twice, is held in France in April.

It would presumably have to follow the country’s vaccination guidelines as well. Wimbledon organizers have not finalized safety protocols ahead of its summer major. Unvaccinated individuals can currently enter England and have to isolate for 10 days upon arrival.

The U.S. Open closes the Grand Slam calendar in August. Foreign travelers have to be fully vaccinated in a ruling dating back to November.

They must provide proof of it and there are few exceptions.

Djokovic also has potential tournaments in the U.S. at Indian Wells and Miami in March.

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Gauff shocked by Wang at Australian Open as Keys beats 2020 champion Kenin The Guardian - China’s Wang Qiang secured her first win over a top-20 player since beating Serena Williams at Melbourne Park in 2020 after upsetting 18th-seeded Coco Gauff 6-4, 6-2 at the Australian Open yesterday.

It was Wang’s first win on tour since last year’s French Open, where she beat Su-Wei Hsieh in the first round before losing to Gauff in the second. Gauff saved four match points from 5-0 down on Monday, but that was the only good news in a match in which the American made 38 unforced errors.

“It’s just learning when do

I play my best tennis, and today wasn’t the best tennis,” the 17-year-old Gauff. It was the first time she had been beaten in the opening round of a major since the 2020 US Open.

Elsewhere, Madison Keys came out on top in an all-US battle against the 2020 Australian Open champion, Sofia Kenin. Keys has been in excellent form in the lead up to this year’s tournament and claimed the Adelaide Open last week, her first title since 2019. Keys is currently ranked No 87 in the world after suffering injuries and a loss of form. Kenin, who was the No

11 seed, is undergoing struggles of her own and has not won a title since March 2020. Elsewhere in the women’s draw Alison Riske, who Keys defeated in the final at Adelaide, beat Donna Vekic in straight sets.

It was a generally successful day for the American men in Melbourne. Reilly Opelka won a battle of giants with Kevin Anderson as the 6ft 11in No 23 seed beat the 6ft 8in South African 6-3, 6-4, 7-6. Tommy Paul and Mackenzie McDonald also won their openers but Sam Querrey fell to Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego.

‘Our champion’: deported Djokovic welcomed home after Australian fiasco B E L G R A D E / MELBOURNE (Reuters) Novak Djokovic returned to a rapturous welcome in Serbia yesterday after Australia deported the world men’s tennis No. 1 for being unvaccinated against COVID-19, a stance jeopardising his quest for a record 21st Grand Slam title.

Most Australians had wanted him gone, but Serbian fans cheered and waved national flags as Djokovic touched down at Belgrade airport then headed to his own apartment.

“You are our champion, Novak!” and “We love you, Nole!” they chanted, using an affectionate diminutive.

The 34-year-old “King of Melbourne” had won nine previous Australia Opens, is level with Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer on 20 titles, and was top men’s seed for the tournament that got underway on Monday. But instead of beginning his title defence as scheduled at Melbourne Park, he flew to Belgrade via Dubai after being twice detained in a hotel with asylum-seekers and then unceremoniously booted out

by Australian immigration.

“Whoever wins it now, doesn’t really count,” said Alek Drakoo, a member of the Australian Serbian community, disappointed to miss seeing him in Melbourne. The Australian government’s decision was in tune with majority public opinion, but authorities drew flak for the chaotic handling of the issue. “I am uncomfortable that the focus of the past weeks has been on me and I hope that

Tuesday January 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

we can all now focus on the game and the tournament I love,” Djokovic said, expressing disappointment but respect for a court decision against him.

BACK TO AUSTRALIA? Under Australian law, he cannot return for three years unless the immigration minister accepts there are compelling or compassionate reasons.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison hinted there may be a way to let him in next year.

“There is the opportunity for (a person) to return in the right circumstances, and that will be considered at the time,” he told 2GB radio.

France said Djokovic would be barred from playing the French Open in May as things stand because of a new vaccine pass law.

“This will apply to everyone who is a spectator or a professional sportsperson,” the ministry said in a statement.

It said, however, that the pandemic situation could change by then.

Australia’s Federal Court ruling to uphold the cancellation of Djokovic’s visa - originally granted on a medical exemption as he recently had COVID-19 - dismayed his family and supporters, who portray him as a persecuted underdog.

“I think he entered history as a hero, as a man and as a fighter against this evil which is called corona-circus,” said Marko Strugalovic, 60, at Belgrade airport.

Djokovic was first detained by immigration authorities on Jan. 6, ordered

released by a court on Jan. 10 and then detained again on Saturday before Sunday’s court hearing. He wore a mask and took selfies with fans on transit in Dubai but avoided fans and media at Belgrade airport, going straight to his apartment in the Novi Beograd district.

Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke had said Djokovic could be a threat to public order because his presence would encourage antivaccination sentiment. His case has stoked a global debate over the rights to decline vaccination as authorities around the world push that as the main route out of the two-year-old pandemic that has killed 5.5 million people.

‘YOU HAVE TO COMPLY’ Many Australians, who have endured some of the world’s toughest lockdowns and have an adult vaccination rate of more than 90%, saw him as arrogant and dismissive of health risks.

It was a tricky situation for Morrison, who faces an election by May, but he defended his handling of it. “If you’re someone coming from overseas, and there are conditions for you to enter this country, then you have to comply with them,” he said.

Spain’s Nadal said the tournament would not be the same without his great rival.

“If Novak Djokovic is playing here, it’s better for everybody, no doubt about that,” he told reporters after trouncing American Marcos Giron 6-1 6-4 6-2 to sail into the second round.

Surujpaul fine all-round display leads Wakenaam Royal Strikers to victory over E’bo Eagles

The victorious Wakenaam Royal Strikers.

A fine all-round performance from Tushall Surujpaul guided Wakenaam Royal Strikers to a 29-run victory over Essequibo Eagles when the teams collided in a 35over contest recently at Anna Regina Multilateral School ground.

Surujpaul top scored with 33 as Wakenaam Royal Strikers managed 134 all out in 22 overs after they were inserted. Trivell Evans made 31, Vivek Vinesh 12 and Tomesh Persaud 11. Lance Roberts claimed 3-29, R. Suresh 2-6, T Boodram 2-10 and Shazim

Mohamed 2-30.

Essequibo Eagles were bowled out for 105 in 18.4 overs. Mohamed scored 27, J. Wallace 20 not out and R. Suresh 13. Surujpaul bagged 5-22, while Gulcharran Chulai had 2-41 and Mohandass Surujpaul 1-11.

Golden Jaguars booked for Tri-Nations showdown in Suriname The Golden Jaguars will compete in a tri-nation tournament against Suriname and Barbados next week as the Guyana Football Federation resets the senior men’s national programme under new coach Jamaal Shabazz.

The one-off competition will be hosted by Suriname, with Guyana’s match against the hosts opening proceedings on January 28 followed by a second game against Barbados on January 30.

Suriname will then play Barbados on February 1 to compete the round robin.

The fixtures are the first international engagements for the senior men’s team since Shabazz took over following the departure of Brazilian coach Marcio Maximo in 2021.“It’s a good opportunity for the locally-based players to play international football, especially coming off the end of year tournament,” Head Coach Shabazz said.

“For January, the focus is more on the locally-based players and, in March, we will focus on viewing more of the international players, but we still invited about four of them.”

“We have a history of battles with Suriname and Barbados, so we are looking

forward to rekindling that rivalry,” Shabazz said. “Training started on Sunday, so it’s going be a short and intense programme. Our main aim is to assess the players after such a long lay-off.” Guyana last played Suriname in a 3-2 away defeat in October 2016 during the third round of the now defunct Caribbean Cup. The Golden Jaguars drew 2-2 with Barbados in a Concacaf Nations League qualifying match in September 2018 – a match which was eventually awarded as a 3-0 win to Guyana after Barbados were found to have fielded ineligible players.

“We are looking forward to this excellent opportunity

to restart the men’s programme under Coach Shabazz with two enticing games against two regional rivals,” said GFF President Wayne Forde. “It provides the perfect bridge for the Golden Jaguars during a quiet international period and will give Coach Shabazz a chance to really get to know some of the talent at his disposal.” The January fixtures kick off a busy international calendar for Guyana in the first quarter of 2022, with the senior and U20 women’s team also in action in FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers and the Concacaf Women’s U20 Championship respectively in February and March.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday January 18, 2022

BCB /RHTYSC/Vitality Inc hands over home to Ruthel Henry - Minister Rodrigues praises cooperation of company

T

he Berbice Cricket Board continues to break new grounds in sports administration as it joined hands with the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club MS and sponsor Vitality Inc to hand over a $2.7M new home to its Office Assistant Ruthel Henry on Friday last.

The BCB is perhaps the first sports organisation in the country to construct a home for one of its employees and forms part of the Hilbert Foster led administration's effort to improve the lives of persons involved in playing or management.

Minister of Housing and Water Susan Rodrigues officially handed over the home to an emotional Henry in the Glasgow Housing Scheme and congratulated the two organisations and the sponsor on a job well done.

Minister Rodrigues noted that she was present when the company was officially launched last year and was very pleased to see that they are fulfilling their pledge of giving back to the country.

Such Companies, she stated would get her cooperation and she urged Henry to care and cherish her new home, which would allow her and her teenage son, a life of comfort and safety. Henry, recalled that out of frustration she had approached Foster, who is also the Secretary/CEO of the RHTYSC,MS for assistance in the construction of a new home as the cost of rent was too high for her. The BCB President, she stated readily agreed to her request and

committed the two organisations he leads to finding a sponsor for the home. Foster then approached Mr Sureain Sawh of Vitality Inc for assistance and the overseas based Guyanese readily agreed to the request.

Construction of the home started three months ago and includes two bedrooms, a living room, kitchen and washroom area. The home is also equipped with an overhead water tank to provide water to the 20 by 28 feet home. Mr Abbas Hamid, a Director of Vitality Inc, stated that the company was very pleased to work along with the BCB as it was satisfied with its work on and off the cricket field. Vitality Inc, he noted was determined to leave an impact in the areas it serves.

The company offer services to Guyana in the areas of accounting, consultancy and supply of materials for Guyana blooming oil sector. The company also handed over a cheque of three hundred and twenty five thousand dollars towards the purchasing of a new 100 by 24 feet cricket pitch covers for the Upper Corentyne area. The covers would be handed to the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association and would assist the area to successfully host major tournaments and finals even in the event of rain.

BCB President Hilbert Foster, who was unavoidable absent from the handing over ceremony due to a prior (Continued on page 21)

Minister Susan Rodrigues poses with Ruthel Henry and representatives of the BCB and Vitality after officially handing over the home.

PAGE 25

West Indies U19’s beat Scotland to record their first points of the tournament.

West Indies U-19s get first points of World Cup with seven wicket win over Scotland U-19s Coco Gauff was upset

by Chinese player Wang Qiang.

(Michael Errey/ AFP/Getty Images)

Gauff shocked by Wang at Australian Open as Keys beats 2020 champion Kenin

t r o Sp

Novak Djokovic can’t play French Open unless vaccinated, French Sports Ministry says Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic walks with his team after landing at Dubai Airport after the Australian Federal Court upheld a government decision to cancel his visa to play in the Australian Open, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, January 17, 2022. (REUTERS/Loren Elliott)

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