Kaieteur News

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AIETEUR NEWS

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

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Friday Edition July 17, 2020 -Vol. 22 No. 28

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Price $80 Dead: Kissoondath Premsukh

Online readership yesterday, 183,189

Election riggers to be informed of p.

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visa revocation - US Ambassador

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Recount figures must - UK Foreign be accepted Minister Granger please step aside…

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Dési Bouterse hands over the reins of power to Chan Santokhi yesterday.

Chan Santokhi is the new COVID-19 curfew extended to 8pm president of Suriname - Berbice curfew-free Monday to Friday Court sets date to hear K/News publisher’s law suit to quash land deals p.

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Companies like Rystad Energy want Guyanese to be happy collecting peanuts from ExxonMobil - Dr. Mangal

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- insists country should take its time in granting project approval

Kaieteur News

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Friday July 17, 2020

Election Riggers to be informed of visa revocation- US Ambassador

By Kemol King The US Embassy informed the press yesterday that those persons found to be undermining democracy in Guyana, and those who are complicit, will be informed that their visas have been revoked, and that they will not be allowed to travel to the United States of America.

US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, hosted a virtual press briefing yesterday to discuss the announcement of those sanctions by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo the day before, which form part of an “initial tranche of visa restrictions”. Pompeo demanded that President David Granger step aside, as his coalition has actively been supporting the frustration of a declaration of the results of the transparent recount process.

The Ambassador gave few details of the sanctions being imposed, pointing to US privacy laws preventing her from doing so. “ Vi s a r e c o r d s a r e confidential under US law; so we are not able to identify the individuals or provide details on any individual visa case.”

She would not say how many persons are involved or what categories they fit u n d e r, o n l y t h a t t h e restrictions have already begun and that such action is long overdue. The Consular Affairs section of the US Embassy, Kaieteur News understands, will be reaching out to the offenders to notify them.

Kaieteur News understands too that in excess of 50 persons have been targeted with visa restrictions so far, including Government ministers, A P N U + A F C o ff i c i a l s , GECOM officers, judicial officers, coalition financiers and even media operatives.

Lynch indicated that more persons may be added in a future tranche, as the embassy reviews various cases and actions being taken by persons at this time.

Asked how persons may have these restrictions removed, Lynch said that Pompeo has the authority and that he could so do if he determines that there are no longer any adverse impacts on US foreign policy.

The Ambassador would not comment on any escalating sanctions, should t h e A P N U + A F C government refuse to demit

US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo office, explaining that such action would depend on decision-makers at the highest levels of the US Government. However, she offered that examples around the globe would offer a fair idea of what could come.

“These restrictions are under the authority of the Immigration and Nationality Act, section 212(a)(3)(C),” the Ambassador said, “to restrict visas to those whose entry into the United States would have potentially serious adverse foreignpolicy consequences.”

Ly n c h s a i d t h a t Pompeo’s announcement clearly indicates that there are consequences to subverting democracy and the rule of law. In this regard, the US, she underscored, is driven by the InterAmerican Democratic C h a r t e r, a d o c u m e n t countries in the hemisphere signed on to which requires them to defend democracy when it is threatened.

One reporter asked how the US Government could justify demanding Granger to step aside when a declaration has not yet been made. Lynch noted that there are about seven results, but

US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch underscored the US Government’s confidence in the results coming out of the national recount, which shows that the Granger Government was unsuccessful in its bid for reelection.

Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield, had stated in a preliminary report to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) following the recount, that there were votes tainted by voter impersonation and irregularities, in line with allegations being made by the coalition to discredit the elections. Pointed to this, Lynch reminded of the findings of the CARICOM Scrutineer Team, which Granger had deemed the “most legitimate interlocutors” on the Guyana situation.

“The national vote recount considered all of that,” Lynch said, “and they had the CARICOM Scrutineers there, as well as the OAS observers. The CARICOM Scrutineers were determined to be the most legitimate interlocutors for this process, and their words at the end were that they witnessed nothing that would prevent a declaration

based on the national vote recount.”

The Ambassador did not mince words on the protraction of the electoral process.

“As you know all too well,” she said, “it has been more than 19 weeks since the general and regional elections took place in Guyana. There has yet to be a resolution, despite a full election recount and a ruling

by Guyana’s apex court, the Caribbean Court of Justice, that the national vote recount should be used to declare the winner. There have been seven separate election results, five prepared without witnesses – by witnesses, I mean international and local observers, party agents and elections officials; two of those results were prepared with substantial observation.

Both local and international observers stated that GECOM ran an election day that was free, fair and credible; the same was said about the recount with CARICOM observers, called the most “credible interlocutors,” stating that nothing precluded GECOM from declaring a winner using the national vote

recount.

The Guyanese people have exercised their civic right and they deserve to be heard. But, due to continued electoral improprieties, the people have NOT been heard after 19 long weeks.”

“The events following the March 2 elections, some of which I personally witnessed, indicate that there are forces that have repeatedly refused to accept the will of the people at the ballot box. Guyana’s nondemocratic trajectory is dangerous for its citizens and for the hemisphere as a whole.”

Even then, there were questions posed to Lynch over the timing of the sanctions, being announced when there is a showdown in the High Court over the legality of the recount. In response, she pointed to statements Pompeo has been making for several weeks,

and explained that there is nothing coincidental about the timing of his announcement. She refused to comment on the judicial process, as well, stating that that has to play itself out.

The US Ambassador made a point of stressing that GECOM Chair, retired Justice Claudette Singh, is a person of utmost integrity and a distinguished jurist who has given decades of her life in service to her country.

After the Chair had announced her decision that the recount results must form the basis of a declaration, the APNU+AFC camp had begun to heap aspersions on her integrity, with one coalition member, Aubrey Norton, stating that the GECOM Chair is “digging a hole for herself”. Later on, APNU+AFC supporters placed a miniature effigy of Singh into a makeshift coffin and pretended to have a funeral on the streets for her.

“I am shocked and appalled at the dangerous statements and actions that I have seen directed at the Chairwoman,” Lynch said, and called for all Guyanese to speak out in defence of her.Moving forward, the US Ambassador reminded that over 130 countries are represented in various statements from the Organisation of American States (OAS), the Commonwealth, CARICOM and the (Continued on page 3)

Kaieteur News

Friday July 17, 2020

PAGE 03

Companies like Rystad Energy want Guyanese to be happy collecting peanuts from ExxonMobil - Dr. Mangal -Insists country should take its time in granting project approval

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f there continues to be delays in giving ExxonMobil the green light to begin developing its third project, the Payara in the Stabroek Block, Guyana stands to lose significantly.

This picture was painted recently by Rystad Energy, a Norwegian research company. In its latest assessment of Payara, Rystad reminded that once developed, Payara is expected to bring up 200,000 barrels of oil per day. ExxonMobil had hoped for approval to be granted last year December. Had its wish been granted, Payara would have been up and running by 2025. In a press conference held earlier this year, it was noted that delays in approval were due to issues that had to be resolved with the Field Development Plan for the project.

As a result of this, the project start-date has been pushed back by a year.

Rystad was keen to note that if these delays persist, Guyana which stands to gain US$4.4B from the project could see those revenues diminish substantially. With a sixmonth delay, it said that the project would generate around US$800 million less than what it would and around $1.6 billion less with a 12month delay.

It also noted that already, Guyana has lost $300m in net present value while adding that more is at stake with the said delays.

Upon noting the foregoing analysis, former Presidential Advisor, Dr. Jan Mangal, took to his LinkedIn Page to express his disgust that Rystad Energy continues to push ExxonMobil’ s agenda in Guyana. Dr. Mangal categorically stated that in negotiations, countries have a right to delay to get real value. He was keen to remind that Guyana already lost US$55B by rushing deals with

ExxonMobil. In this regard, he was alluding to the damning report called Signed Away that was prepared by The Global Witness.

That document exposed how Guyana left US$55B on the table due to hurried negotiations for the Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement (PSA). With this in mind, Dr. Mangal posited that the money which Rystad said Guyana is about to lose due to delays is peanuts.

In an invited comment, the transparency advocate said that Guyanese must not be fooled by

Rystad and others that it is in the country’s interest to produce oil by any means necessary. He said that oil production must always benefit the people and the country by extension to the maximum. The Petroleum Consultant said that Rystad Energy’s pro-ExxonMobil narrative is simply telling Guyanese that they should be happy with collecting 12 peanuts and if there are continued delays, it could end up with just five peanuts in its hands.

“They would like us to believe that we poor stupid Brown/Black people should be happy to get peanuts whilst the foreign companies make off with 100’s of billions of US$.

And no wonder the Granger administration gave away US$55B of what should have come to the deserving people of Guyana because they were fooled. They thought it would win them the election.”

Former Presidential Advisor, Dr. Jan Mangal Moving forward, the former Presidential Advisor said Guyanese need to focus on rescinding the awards of the Kaieteur and Canje blocks, and getting a fair deal on the Stabroek Block. “We also need to constrain production from the Stabroek Block. A couple 100,000 barrels per day is sufficient for us, and anything more will make us complete hypocrites as our coastline submerges due to climate change,” the transparency advocate concluded.

Trotman’s arguments on Lowenfield’s report are complete rubbish- Nandlall

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ormer Attorney General (AG) and executive of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), Anil Nandlall, has rebutted the recent utterances made by the co-chairman of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Raphael Trotman, to defend the actions of Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield. In so doing, Nandlall has labelled Trotman’s arguments as “complete rubbish”.

Nandlall’s comment followed after Trotman stated that the CEO Officer

cannot be directed by the Chairman and the Commissions of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), nor can he be instructed by any quote of the law—even if the CEO commits a wrongful act.

Trotman was at the time defending the report submitted to the Commission by Lowenfield in which the he falsified numbers. These figures, n o t a b l y, m a t c h e d t h e declaration made by the Region Four Returning Officer (RO), Clairmont Mingo, who fraudulently

Election Riggers to be informed...

From page 2 European Union, as well as multiple bilateral messages and calls for the process to be free and fair.

Her closing statements were: “Finally, I’ll say that this turn of events is highly disappointing for the United States. The US has cautioned for weeks, and for months quite frankly, that we stood by our word, should democracy be undermined in Guyana. We continue to hope that the will of the Guyanese people will be respected and will prevail. This country, as you all know, has a very bright future and we look very much to partnering with a democratically elected Government in Guyana.”

inflated the votes in favour of the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) as exposed in a series of articles done by Kaieteur News.

In spite of Lowenfield’s report being riddled with inaccurate computations, Trotman on Saturday said to his supporters, “It appears from my standpoint that his report stands, and I say this based on my own legal training… It would be unheard of for the Commission or Chairman, whether it is four or all of them, or the Chairman herself, for any direction or instruction to be given to the CEO as to what that advice (report) should entail.

I don’t see how any section of the Representation of the People Act or any powers that the Commission may have or could overturn or undo that report once it is issued.”

The co-chairman went on to say that, “Once the CEO’s report is issued based on

precedence, then I don’t see how that report can be undone even by the Commission itself.

I know that many people are throwing around Section 18 of the Elections Law Amendment Act, but at the end of the day, the CEO has both a statutory and constitutional duty, and no Commission, or person or quote, for that matter, can direct the CEO to do his job.”

However, during an interview with Kaieteur News yesterday, Nandall posited that Trotman’s arguments, “taken to its logical conclusion, would mean that a CEO can throw away the results of an election, consisting of the will of the people expressed by the ballot, and make up a report of his own liking and GECOM would be bound to use that perverse report as the basis for the declaration of the results of those elections.”

In that result, Nandlall believes that it would not be a “Government elected by

PPP/C executive, Anil Nandlall

the people” but it would be a “Government selected by the Chief Elections Officer”.

“Only a demented mind,” he said “would hold such a view, and it is simply tragic that such an argument can come from a trained legal mind.”

The former AG reminded that the most fundamental legal principle running throughout the whole gamut of election laws is that the election results declared,

must truly reflect the will of the electorate.

He went on to say, “Likewise, the relevant sections of the Representation of the People Act, including Section 96, mandate the Chief Elections Officer to produce his report based upon the votes cast by the electorate for their respective party and nothing else.

Trotman’s arguments are therefore beyond nonsense.”

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Friday July 17, 2020

Kaieteur News

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

Talking cricket, regaining sanity An attempt is made to move attention away from elections to other things if that is possible. This is so tainting, so disturbing, that to continue to be focused exclusively on elections risks losing of the mind and to be reduced to a babbling idiot, which is how we already appear before a shocked world. So, to assist with maintaining the sanity of our fellow citizens, we speak of sport, specifically of West Indies cricket, to shift from the prevailing contexts.

The peoples of this region need a strong inspiring boost, and they will take any that they can get. Cricket is better than most at lifting flagging spirits, especially Test cricket success. Look at where things are currently: in a picturesque area that depends heavily on tourism, there is a trickle of returns only. Unsurprisingly, any rising and triumphing brings hailing, the temporary respite provided by being distracted from the woes at the individual, commercial, and country levels. So, when the fellas surge to a close win at Southampton - the BBC called it “gripping” and a “memorable four wicket victory” - there is cause for jubilation in these Tropics.

Rather unfortunately, here in Guyana, we have had almost nothing to be jubilant about in the last year and a half. It could be accurately said that Guyanese have had nothing but endless arguments and acrimonies for over the last half century. For as bad as the region as a whole is, given the assaults of the pandemic, Guyana is still worse off than the rest of its CARICOM neighbours. It has no government to speak of, no budget in place, no elections closure, no social harmony, no immediate and tangible relief from its oil wealth, no COVID-19 rules observed (by too many). If business is considered to be bad in the next-door Islands dependent, for the most part, on a single economic plank, it is worse here. There is nothing doing, which is why we say, let us lose our sorrows for a moment and bask in the victory at Southampton.

Since Shimron and Keemo opted out (not such a good move, we think), one Jermaine Blackwood had to step up and he did so in convincing fashion, with what the BBC termed, “magnificent.” Talk about rising to the demands of the occasion with a magnificent display of application and determination. That was on the field of cricket, but Guyanese would like to see such “magnificence” in political leadership and personal character manifested here. We look first to the coalition’s leader, then to those in the opposition. And last, we look at and appeal to the chairwoman and commissioners of GECOM: minimize and manage the personal, be about the bigger, the interests of the bigger team, and there is none bigger than what could be successful for Guyana.

Our people love cricket, live for it. But here we are and we cannot even talk about it, do not want to listen to it, since everything else is washed away by the floods of elections developments, which are all characteristically controversial, all woundingly divisive, and all of which blots out the things that bring momentary joy. Our ears are not glued to our radios, which are not tuned to reports from England (like before) about West Indies Test cricket coming from England, and the celebrating of the boys in maroon (not red or green) winning one for the trapped and strapped folks back home.

Instead, Guyanese ears and attention are focused almost uninterruptedly on who lashes out at the next one, who should use what figures, who has a duty to declare, who runs to the High Court, and who is denying the course of what is fair and just, and who freezes the elections clock, for yet another couple of days.

This nation has gone mad, with rogues plentiful. It has made a life calling of cheating (taxes, partners, debts, house and land) to the point where the same cheating that remedied most bureaucratic and personal issues, is now brought to bear on the national stage of elections. When the extraordinary of clean elections was expected, the ordinary cultural of cheating took hold. This is what imprisons tightly. Cricket! Who cares?

Young Guyanese will not let grumpy old men steal their rights and freedoms Dear Editor, There is an old African proverb that says, “if you want to go quickly, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” Given Guyana’s lagging development status, we need to go far quickly.

Unfortunately, the only place David Granger and the rigging cabal have and continue to take Guyana quickly is in a downward spiral of social, political, and economic ruin that will take many years to recover from. The longer this war of attrition plays out, the worse off the country will become. As a result, the destiny of hundreds of thousands of Guyanese is being controlled by the obnoxious actions of a few.

Perhaps what is more

nauseating about this rigging conspiracy is that it is primarily perpetrated by a small group of grumpy old men who have enjoyed their fat cat salaries and Cadillac lifestyles over the last five years and counting but are now determined to destroy the future prospects of young Guyanese. Obviously, they are not doing Guyana any favours as their actions may only encourage further brain-drain at a time when the country needs its best and brightest to stand up and help manage the nascent oil sector.

With fewer young and educated Guyanese around to confront the despotic tendencies of Granger and his acolytes, maybe the

APNU+AFC believes they can conjure up enough support to squash whatever resistance may remain.

However, what Granger and his thugs in designer suits fail to realize is that times have changed, and this generation of Guyanese will challenge them to the bitter end to ensure that their rights and their freedoms are not trampled upon or stolen in the vilest manner.

The recent introduction of visa restrictions by the United States on those undermining Guyana’s democracy is a welcome sigh of relief and a vital first step to restoring our fledgling democracy. With Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union expected to follow with

sanctions of their own very soon, young Guyanese should remain assured that the international community is fully behind them. There is no turning back now and hopefully, all their hard work will soon pay-off.

In his inaugural address, President Kennedy noted that, “in every country in the world, the hope is that every generation must fare better than the one that came before.” For this generation of Guyanese fighting for democracy, this is your defining moment; your moment of truth. Like those that have come before, you deserve better. Rise and be counted.

Yours faithfully, Omchand Mahdu

GHK should be ashamed to be a part of this desecration of sovereignty Dear Editor, Once more I had to add another name to my list of “will never read again commentators”.

This one came as a shocker - GHK Lall for his piece in KN, July 14, “Some thoughts on Minister Trotman’s comments”. GHK clandestinely joined the bandwagon in defence of, “too many foreigners have been allowed to become too involved, at too intimate a level, in our political and sovereign affairs” – GHK’s words.

This self professed enigmatic genius should be privy to Article 9 of our Constitution, which states

that, “Sovereignty belongs to the people, who exercise it through their representatives and the democratic organs established by or under this Constitution.”

For GHK, and a handful of people enamoured by incumbency, to accuse the international community of disrespecting our sovereignty, just for watching out for “we, the people”, the owners of sovereignty in Article 9, as we seek to exercise that sovereignty by electing our representatives, are peddling a false narrative - a narrative that has been the Hallmark of every dictatorial regime in the past. GHK, with all his intelligence, should be

ashamed to be a part of this desecration of sovereignty.

I am shocked that this individual who had seemed so morally balanced could have bend the other way and overlooked the universally accepted principles of democracy that Guyana is a signatory to.

GHK, speaking of the foreign observers, wondered which one of the foreign groups or individuals “would have allowed the same in their house, in their domestic travails.” In short, GHK mirrors the position of the rigging cabal. It is a show of total disdain for any form of solidarity for the Guyanese people, who seemed under

threat of being cheated of their rights to elect a government of their choice by popular vote afforded to them by the Constitution.

The general consensus is that more eyes watching over the Democratic process is better for the prevention of skullduggery; it is sad that the self proclaimed enigma didn’t see it that way.

I had always been intrigued by the battles between the self proclaimed GHK Lall and Freddie Kissoon. Kissoon remains a gem of virtue, while the Lall is revealed as an opportunistic.

Yours truly, Rudolph Singh

How is disenfranchising over 150,000 voters fighting for democracy?

Dear Editor, I am left to wonder, has Guyana descended into madness? Is anarchy on the horizon?

I have been following the back and forth of the elections and have made my own peaks, of which there were several: 1. Mingo declared figures that all other parties and observers deemed fraudulent.

2. The court had Mingo do back his calculations, and he still came up with figures that were considered fraudulent. In both instances, APNU+AFC were declared winners.

3. A recount of the votes was done. It was my opinion that if the figures that Mingo produced were indeed fraudulent, then whoever was

the mastermind behind it, will have to make tons of noise so that the focus would shift from Mingo and his figures to elsewhere. Then came the noise about dead and migrant voters and APNU agents being compromised, in my mind, the plot, whatever it was, was unraveling.

4. The recount proved that Mingo’s figures were off (in favour of APNU+AFC) by thousands, meaning not only that people did not vote, but thousands were added in nonetheless.

5. The Recount showed a victory for the PPP. A move was made to Guyana’s highest court that the recount was illegal and the figures could not be used, meanwhile, the CEO produced other figures that were neither in the initial count nor the

recount.

He gave APNU+AFC victory two more times.

6. The highest court in the Caribbean then ruled on the matter. The recount was legal; the numbers were credible and must be used in declaring a winner in the election. The winner by the recount would have been the PPP. 7. APNU again moved to the court to block the declaration based on the recount and instructions of the highest court in the Caribbean, thus having the winner be declared on the figures declared by the ROs including Mingo’s figures.

Editor, this is where the madness comes in. I have listened to Aubrey Norton, saying that they will not give up the fight for Democracy.

Then to quote an article by DPI: “‘We will not bend,’ Harmon said this morning during a press conference where he addressed the ongoing attempts to prevent his Excellency President David Granger from being declared the winner of the March 2 elections, despite the polls showing so.”I emboldened the phrases in the paragraph for a reason.

What Democracy was Norton talking about? When the CEO attempted to disenfranchise 150,000+ voters, he was ok with that; was that the kind of democracy he is talking about?

I guess the DPI writer was not following the events properly, because she would have known that the actual (Continued on page 5)

Friday July 17, 2020

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

David Hinds had falsified both history and Walter Rodney’s message Dear Editor, The July 9, 2020 issue of Kaieteur News carried a letter

by David Hinds that falsified history and totally misrepresented the man he called his hero, Walter Rodney. He did all of this to try to instigate African Guyanese to defend the crimes of the PNC and their attempt to steal the government by attempting fraud of the March 2, 2020 elections in this country.

To do so, he transported the race relations history of the US into our Guyanese society. In saying that his interlocutor will “never be a George Floyd” because he is not Afro, it is just designed to mislead in our Guyanese context.

To post-slavery history of the Caribbean is very different to the post-slavery history of the United States.

In the US, the form of relations was modified and African-Americans continued to be confronted by racism. They had to resist segregation and a lot of that kind of relationship lingers to this day.

In the post-colonial

period in the Caribbean, Afro-Caribbeans were not segregated in the societies.

They did face issues like the African-Americans did.

Indeed, from a race point of view, it was Afro-Caribbean people who played the most prominent role in the region.

In our own Guyana, the PNC emphasized race to support colonial domination and engineered racial clashes to allow the delay independence and install the PNC in power.

Since then, they have used racism like a knee on the throats of the whole nation, stifling social and economic progress of all Guyanese.

Make no mistake about it, the PNC/APNU/AFC does not represent the interest of the AfricanGuyanese working people.

Even the African-Guyanese business people are not represented by the PNC/ APNU. The PNC/APNU represents a tiny cabal that has accumulated great wealth, during the Burnham period and now.

Race serves as a

smokescreen to allow this cabal to exploit the Guyanese masses including the vast majority of African-Guyanese workers and farmers.

However, by using the history of Black people in the US and by integrating it with lies like PPP/Civic killed hundreds of Black people, they have succeeded in creating a false consciousness among a great amount of the African-masses in this country about a ‘coolie d o m i n a t i o n ’ . A c t u a l l y, Indians, more than any other group, have been the victims of PNC/APNU racism. They were the ones that had to bear that cross, suffering both as working people and because of PNC use of racism.

But Hinds did not only mix up our history to justify his descent into the morass of racism, he criminally tried to ‘recruit’ Rodney in that diabolical attempt. The same Walter Rodney who spent his short adult life fighting against racism and for working class unity here and abroad. Hinds, in

How is disenfranchising over...

From page 4 poll based on the recount did not show that ‘President David Granger’ was the winner. The recount actually shows that the numbers were ‘rigged’ in favour of ‘President David Granger’, which would have had him ‘frequently’ declared the winner.

Many of my friends are educated supporters of the APNU administration, and they too have expressed their disgust at the blatant attempts to have the Government

remain in power at all cost.

The APNU have lost some valid support. I can rest assured, should the present government have their way, and a new election is called, they will lose bigger that they did in March 2020.

We are at a cross roads; where the narrative that APNU top brass have been peddling is beginning to resound in the minds of the die-hard supporters as truth.

We have a situation where Mingo has added in ‘Phantom’ votes (by the

thousands) and APNU wants the President to be sworn in on this count, and an ‘allegation’ of dead and migrant voters in favor of the PPP. In all of this madness and court actions, not once did the APNU decide to challenge the results based on ‘dead and migrant’ voters, where once and for all the international community and all sundry would see that they were right and the world was wrong. I pray for Guyana.

Yours truly, A. Roberts

quoting Rodney, took him completely out of context and even tried to turn Rodney into a PNC man.

This is unpardonable.

This is sick. Rodney toiled tirelessly to show that Black Power analysis in the US and the Caribbean had to be seen differently. This is how he put it in one of his conversations in Jamaica, published in the b o o k ‘ Wa l t e r R o d n e y Speaks’: “…trying to formulate questions of struggle…from time to time, I did refer back to the Guyanese situation, trying to make it clear that the way in which one was using the word ‘Black’ in a West Indian context must of necessity embrace the majority of African and Indian populations. And the reason I did that was because I knew that the word ‘black; could well be interpreted in a narrow sense to mean African and hence anti-Indian…”

He went on to refer to Stokely Carmichael visit to Guyana in the late 1960s, early 1970s. here is what he said; ‘…Brother Stokely Carmichael was in Guyana on one occasion – I wasn’t there at the time – and he didn’t help the situation very much by introducing what was essentially an alien, that is, a North American, conception of

what race was about…’

Rodney was extremely clear and honest in his analysis, unlike David Hinds. He never believed that PNC represented African Guyanese interests. Here is what he had to say more than forty years ago: “… African Guyanese who look around them today recognize that heir material and social and political condition had not advanced. Rather, in many cases, it may have declined in spite of the existence of this so-called African Government.”

It sounds as if he was speaking about the G r a n g e r r e g i m e t o d a y.

Unfortunately, Hinds is now one of the main defenders and promoters of the elite that has its knee on our throats. He falls squarely in this category that Rodney saw and expressed disgust, as put over here in his own inimitable style: “For a small nation, Guyana has produced a discouragingly large number of lackeys and stooges who hide in the shadow of the ‘Comrade Leader…’ This is exactly where Doctor David Hinds is, one of the ‘lackeys’, one of the tools that PNC/APNU used to continue the rape of our nation.

I close with another

important advice that Rodney left us, one that is of great relevance: “No ordinary Afro-Guyanese, no ordinary Indo-Guyanese can afford to be misled by the myth of race.

Time and time again it has been our undoing…” He uttered those words at a public meeting at the corner of Durban & Louisa Row in defending a PPP Activist, Arnold Rampersaud.

Today, it is in the interest of all Guyanese to heed that message and stand up and defend democracy, to defend free and fair elections to live in a country that operates with laws and where the Constitution is respected.

Those are fundamental pillars for social and economic development of the state and its people. Those are indispensable in moving towards a more just society.

We must frustrate the efforts of the likes of David Hinds who seeks to divide us and condemn us to perpetual poverty, under the guise of ‘defending’ black people. We must reject the imposition of another country’s history upon us and must defend the stalwarts and heroes like Walter Rodney and not allow their teachings to be taken out of context to achieve the opposite of what he, Rodney, stood for.

Yours truly, Donald Ramotar Former President

PAGE 6

We mourn the passing of two exemplary artists, George Simon and Osaze Dear Editor These are sad times and it follows that I bring sad news of the passing of two wellknown Guyanese Artists who have exhibited with the Guyana United Artists (GUA): George Simon, and Osaze. George Simon passed away in Spain after a protracted illness and Osaze in Mahaica E.C.D both on the 15th of July.

It was indeed so shocking when I got the news in the late evening, that I had a sleepless night wondering how this could be possible.

We are such a small community not large – how can we afford to lose such giants in their own fields in such a short time.

George Simon was not

only an artist but also an archeologist who had made some remarkable finds of preColombian life along the Berbice River that existed thousands of years ago. In 199,7 he was the featured artist at the launching of the Guyana United Artists at the National Museum. He displayed over 40 paintings and drawings.

He distinguished himself in the arts with local and international awards and was also awarded in 2017 and 2018 Awards from the Guyana Cultural Association New York for his Achievements.

As a friend, George had often encouraged me to visit him in Paraguay and to improve my painting abilities after the injury I sustained in

2016 that practically incapacitated me as a sculptor. A tremendous loss to the artist community, he was loved and appreciated by all, but to George death was not the end.

Osaze was both artist and political activist, a founding member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) and also the “Brigade”, the distribution unit of the WPA. He hailed from East Ruimveldt. Osaze spent over a decade in the struggle for free and fair elections until 1992, yet was one of the several members of the brigade who died of poverty and neglect. He was cheated most times in the sale of his artworks. In 2009, he exhibited with the GUA at the Brazilian

Center of Studies, Church Street, Queenstown. He was among the few artists at that time that used recycled materials to create installations.

In 2018, he had lost his vision in one eye and last year the other; this comes with the nature of the work. He, like many of us, could not afford private medical attention.

The Guyana United Artists (GUA) wishes to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of George Simon and Osaze.

They have contributed to the treasury of Guyana’s arts and tradition.

Yours faithfully Desmond Alli (General Secretary Guyana United Artists GUA)

The Chief Elections Officer is not a law unto himself Dear Editor, My understanding is that the Constitution of Guyana sets out the fundamental principles of our law and it is left to Parliament to enact legislation to provide the meat: to provide the step-bystep basis to effect the principles set out by the Constitution.

Unfortunately, and because it is written by humans, it could be confusing at times and so needs to be interpreted by the Court. Sometimes you hear of the letter of the Constitution as opposed to the spirit of the Constitution. Sometimes a particular article is extracted to ensure a particular outcome when other articles may qualify said article.

One of the problems is that the lay person may want to understand the Constitution in keeping with their own wishes; to fit what

Friday July 17, 2020

Kaieteur News

they want or simply swallow blindly what the leaders say.

One of the issues in contention at this point in time is article 177 (1) which states, “A Presidential candidate shall be deemed to have been elected as President and shall be so declared by the Chairman of the elections Commission acting only on the advice of the CEO...”

The question to my mind is the word “advice”. Does this mean the CEO can give whatever advice he wishes; that he could present to the Commission any numbers, which he so desires?

Recently, we have seen the CEO delivering more than one report each having different number of votes. So, which are the real numbers that the Commission can rely on to determine the elections?

Organisations internationally and locally, except for the APNU+AFC, have reached

consensus that the numbers coming out of the recount are what is acceptable.

Could the spirit of the Constitution have given to one person such unbridled powers to submit what he feels like and this has to be rubber stamped by the Commission no matter how outlandish or fraudulent his advice may be. If this is indeed so, it means that a single person, after all the monies spent, time consumed and the electorate would have voted could be a complete waste as the CEO can simply decide arbitrarily the outcome of the elections. I doubt very much if the framers intended this.

Recently the Appeal Court judgment stated that “more votes cast” means “more valid votes” cast as if the constitution could possibly have meant invalid votes that it had to be interpreted. In addition, the word valid is mentioned many times in Sections 84, 89 and others in the Representation of People Act. I come back to this issue not to ignore the settled CCJ decision on this, but precisely because we are being led to believe by the coalition that the Appeal Court judgment, invalidated by the CCJ, still applies.

Now it seems necessary to understand what the Constitution intended by the

word “advice”. Let’s examine the various legislations to see if they offer any clarification as to what is intended for the CEO to do. Section 89 of the Representation of the People Act says that from the votes tabulated for the ten regions, written statements of have to be prepared and submitted to the CEO. Now Section 96 (1) of the said Act states, “The CEO shall, after calculating the total number of valid votes of electors which have been cast for each list of candidates, on the basis of the votes counted and information furnished by returning officers... ascertain the result of the elections” and according to 96 (2) “prepare a report both manually and electronically for the benefit of the Commission which shall be the basis for the Commission to declare”.

In my humble understanding, these sections clarify the advice the CEO is supposed to give to the Commission. It does not give the CEO any authority to determine or manipulate the numbers in any way. With regards to whether the CEO is his own independent boss and cannot be instructed by the Commission, this is what the “ELECTION LAWS (AMMENDMENT) No. 15 (Continued on page 16)

Congratulations to the West Indies on their victory over England Dear Editor Please permit me to use this medium to congratulate the West Indies Cricket Team on their recent outstanding defeat of England. Under the captaincy of the world’s number one test all-rounder, Jason Holder, they defied the COVID-19 challenges and hammered England in their own backyard. It was so pleasing to see the resumption of test cricket after one hundred and seventeen days and, more so, the Caribbean team with the words “Black Lives Matter” boldly inscribed on their collars giving a knee at the Ageas Bowl. It has been a long time since the West Indies team defeated a team ranked above them in a test match away from home. Also, it was the first time since 2000 that they defeated their opponent in the first test match of a series in England.

The team from the Caribbean dominated the match apart from two brief periods when they batted the second time and were 2 for 7 and 3 for 21. Gabrael, Blackwood and Holder were outstanding, although several others chipped in with valuable contributions with

both bat and ball at diverse stages of the match. It was truly a great team effort.

However, there were too many dropped catches, missed run out chances, poor communication in running between the wickets by the tallest man in the team, Jason Holder, and the shortest person Jermain Blackwood, too many batsmen got good starts but did not move on to bigger scores and a few tactical blunders by the skipper himself. On the other side of the coin, the victors gained from several dropped catches, run out opportunities and no-balls that could resulted in a wicket.

As we jubilate, we must remember that England will come back at us with blood in their eyes in the upcoming tests.

There is a saying that England would prefer to lose a battleship than to lose a test match. They will also posit that one swallow does not mean that it is summer.

However, it is always nice to be first among equals. As we move forward for a blackwash, we must remember that there is hope.

Best regards.

Clinton Conway

Mr. Granger received the right birthday ‘gifts’ from the international community Dear Editor, President David Granger, I saw from media reports, had a celebration at the State House on the occasion of his 75th Birthday. It seemed Mr. Granger, as usual, has a jolly good time. From the pictures that appeared, Mr. Granger had cake, glee and wellwishers. I saw him take on the role of musical conductor as he seemingly danced away while his audience watched on.

His celebration, however, is yet another tangible demonstration of how he and his administration are really poles away from the plight of the ordinary man and woman.

While Granger and clique enjoyed themselves on the sweat of the taxpayers, we have quite a number of Guyanese who stare at empty cupboards, bare kitchens and face hard times. There has been an upsurge in petty crime as Guyanese have nowhere

else to turn while Granger and Co. dine in style. While they have wine, some don’t even have water. While Mr. Granger receives gifts, Guyanese are made to punish under his Administration. Is this Mr. Granger’s Good Life?

As we all know, the Creator doesn’t come but He sends. And He didn’t forget Mr. Granger on his special day. The President received several others gifts, presents I don’t think he expected nor wanted.

Indeed, his tyrannical rule has not gone unnoticed. For his birthday, the most powerful nations in the world, have told him and colleagues that they are no longer welcome and he should heed his own advice and do the decent and honest thing and step aside. It reminds me when you “hard ears you does feel” and Mr. Granger is certainly feeling it.

Yours truly, Liebert Alleyne

Friday July 17, 2020

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Kaieteur News

Recount figures must be accepted - UK Foreign Minister T

he United Kingdom (UK) has reiterated its position that the recount figures must be accepted and used for the declaration of the winner of the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

UK Foreign Secretary and First Secretary of State, Dominic Raab tweeted yesterday, “It has been over 4 months since the people of #Guyana went to the polls – a result is still pending.”

Raab continued that “The Elections Commission should declare on the basis of the @CARICOMorg scrutinized recount” and highlighted that Guyana deserves an election result that reflects the will of its people.

The UK Foreign Secretary comments come

just one day after the US announced visa sanctions for financiers and top officials within the Granger administration complicit in undermining democracy.

Canada on the same day, also noted that it would be using every tool available to hold accountable those who prevent a declaration of the recount results.

The UK too will be handing sanctions to those guilty as they have been paying close attention to Guyana’s four-month long electoral process.

UK High Commissioner to Guyana, Greg Quinn, along with the other Western diplomats, had spoken out from the very first time that Region Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo, tried to rig the elections, and has voiced concerns at other

junctures to condemn election rigging.

Back in March, Raab had warned that any government sworn into office on the basis of fraudulent figures would face “strong international condemnation”.

The results of the national recount show a clear victory for the Opposition P e o p l e ’s P r o g r e s s i v e

Party/Civic (PPP/C) with 233,336 valid votes. The incumbent, A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), trailed with 217,920 valid votes.

There have been mounting calls from stakeholders both local and abroad for the coalition government to concede.

UK Foreign Secretary and First Secretary of State, Dominic Raab

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Friday July 17, 2020

Iwokrama threatens to ban vehicles - as cases of people smuggling surface

Iwokrama says it will work with authorities to increase monitoring activities after it found instances of people smuggling.

M

anagement of the Iwokrama project says that it has come to its attention that there are transport operators who are conducting illegal activities through its forest.

“On June 13, two buses passed with groups of aliens who most likely came from Brazil and this was reported to us. These buses and drivers have been noted.”

On July 6 also, at Iwokrama’s ranger station at Corkwood, the police found

three illegal Brazilians on a bus. The bus was turned back and the “illegals” were d r o p p e d o ff a t O a s i s Restaurant. The bus reportedly continued to Georgetown.

The complaint by Iwokrama in a statement yesterday would come after a worrying spike in COVID19 cases in Region One and Nine.

“A few days later on a tip, Iwokrama staffers unearthed yet another very disturbing development within the

Iwokrama Forest, a secret way of bypassing the monitoring stations and getting illegals past the police at Corkwood and Kurupukari. A few days later, two persons were caught coming out of one of these trails, one Brazilian and one Guyanese. They were handed over to police and the Brazilian has since b e e n d e p o r t e d .

Investigations are continuing on the detained Guyanese to assess whether or not he is a trafficker or

guide.”

Iwokrama Management said that they were taking this situation very serious as trafficking of illegal persons is criminal and poses a serious health risk to not only community residents but also residents of Georgetown and further afield.

“The COVID-19 health situation is very serious and Iwokrama Management is requesting that transport providers be very careful and that they pay attention to the situation at hand. There is an upsurge of cases now in the Rupununi and most of these are linked to persons crossing the border.”

Iwokrama Management said that along with the

Guyana Police Force and the Ministry of Public Health, it will now be monitoring all vehicles very closely which are passing through the forest. “…and if we find any road users complicit in acts of bringing illegal persons through the Iwokrama Forest or engaging in any other illegal activity, we will be working with these authorities to ban these vehicles from passing through the Iwokrama Forest for at least three months in the first instance.”

The Iwokrama statement said that the Ministries of Health and Citizenship will also be taking action as well so that those passengers and

traffickers will be dealt with to the full extent of the law.

“Further infractions will lead to more draconian action including a permanent ban of such vehicles from entering the Iwokrama Forest.”

The Iwokrama International Centre (IIC) was established in 1996 under a joint mandate from the Government of Guyana and the Commonwealth Secretariat to manage the Iwokrama Forest, a unique reserve of 371,000 hectares of rainforest “in a manner that will lead to lasting ecological, economic and social benefits to the people of Guyana and to the world in general”.

Kaieteur News

Friday July 17, 2020

PAGE 09

Guyana stands isolated and shamed The APNU+AFC has disgraced Guyana. Never before have so many countries, respected international organizations and individuals come out in condemnation of the attempts to deny the democratic will of the people.

Never before have visa sanctions been imposed on the country. There was the threat of such sanctions years ago when the then PPP/C government was dillydallying with the paperwork to receive deportees from the United States but they did so before the hammer came down.

Never before has a neighbouring state issued a statement on elections in Guyana. A few days ago, Brazil called on the local political parties [read that to mean APNU+AFC] “to respect the popular will emanating from the elections, in line with the recent sentence of the Caribbean Court of Justice, in order to guarantee the prompt official announcement of the c o u n t r y ’s n e w representatives.”

Never before has the Organization of American States (OAS) summoned a Special Meeting of its Permanent Council to discuss Guyana elections.

Four days ago, the Secretary General of the OAS indicated that he will be soon summoning such a meeting.

Only once before has the Caribbean Community had to summon a special summit to address election fraud.

That was the rigged elections of 1985 under the Presidency of Desmond Hoyte.

Eugenia Charles wanted to kick Guyana out of Caricom because of its

dubious electoral practices.

Caricom was headed in that direction. However, the head of the Maha Sabha in Trinidad and Tobago, Sat Maraj, was a very close friend of Desmond Hoyte.

He approached then Prime Minister and Chairman of Caricom, James Fitz-Allen Mitchell, and asked him to listen to Hoyte.

A meeting of some Heads was held in Mustique in 1985. The leaders cut a deal with Hoyte which included a commitment to liberalize the press, allow the reimportation of flour and permit election observers.

It was Mustique who formed the foundation for the presence of official election observers. James Mitchell had this to say recently about the subject: “I became involved long ago in February 1985 in the election when President Hoyte succeeded President Burnham, and the election i r re g u l a r i t i e s c re a t e d difficulties for us in Caricom, not wanting to be seen as silent. It was with colleague Prime Ministers in Mustique that we resolved the issue and created the framework for election observation in Guyana… for which we had secured approval by President Hoyte in Mustique.”

Hoyte later tried to make excuses over his slothfulness in upholding his end of the bargain. He reportedly told Carciom that he was receiving push-back from the old guard within the P N C , i n c l u d i n g Vi o l a Burnham, the wife of the Rigger-in-Chief, Forbes Burnham.

Many years ago, the PNC sought to take credit for restoring the importation of flour, the importation of

which had been restricted under the same PNC. It was said then that the decision to allow the re-importation of flour was due to a motion moved on the floor at one of its Congress. That motion may have been moved but the decision to allow the importation of flour was part of a political deal, which he had cut with the Caricom leaders at Mustique during the latter days of the Cold War. There is no Cold War now to give the Caricom leaders cold feet about placing manners on Guyana.

In fact, a number of Caricom leaders have been outspoken in their comment on the Guyana elections.

Among those who have been outspoken are the Prime Ministers of Trinidad and Tobago who predicted, quite correctly, that the matter will not end well; the Prime Minister of Barbados, Dominica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Expect more regional leaders to come out against what is taking place.

Two former Caribbean Prime Ministers, Owen Arthur and Bruce Golding led election observer missions to Guyana in March of this year. One as head of the Organization of American States and the other as Head of the Commonwealth. Both have made less than flattering statements about the attempts to manipulate the tabulation process. One of them has gone as far as saying that he has never before seen such a transparent attempt to steal an elections.

There will be no repeat of Mustique. President Granger will find it difficult to be accepted again within the

Dem boys seh...

Dem gat REVO-KEE in Guyana It tek Moses – de one in de Bible - 47 days to lead de people of Israel from Egypt to Mount Sinai. So far it tek GEE-Cum 137 days and still dem can’t declare the elections results.

De Israelites wandered in de desert fuh 40 years before dem reach de Promise Land.

At de rate de Rigadier going, dem boys wan know whether dem gat fuh wait 40 years fuh democracy return.

De Americans determine fuh keep dictators out of de western hemisphere. Dem mek de Rigadier know dat dem nah gon allow nobody fuh thief elections.

De Sarah lady from de US Embassy keep a press conference yesterday. Dem boys know dat de list done prepare of dem who visa get revoke.

Is dat mek some of dem reportah wha does support de Coal-ashun face sour like

lime. Dem boys would not be surprise if some of dem reportah visa get pull too.

When you get deport from de United States, dem does call you a DEPOR-TEE. When yuh visa get revoke, yuh does become a REVO-KEE. De Rigadier embarrassing de country. He gat de country setting a bad example fuh de Caribbean. Dem boy nah think he can show he face again in front of some of dem Caricom leaders.

Dem Caricom leaders gon meet next week and dem boys wan feel dat dem gan move de Secretariat out of Guyana because de HAP-New supporters threatening dem staff deh. Pun top of duh, the Caricom nah want no dictator among them.

Talk half and bet yuh bottom dollar some of dem Ministah nah travelling to America anytime soon.

ranks of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community. He did not participate in the virtual ceremony, which was held to welcome the new Chairman of the Community, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, from St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Guyana’s undemocratic

actions will not be entertained within Caricom this time. The country stands isolated and ostracized r e g i o n a l l y a n d internationally. Caricom and the rest of the world will not be dealing with anyone from the APNU+AFC. If the leaders of the Coalition do not appreciate that fact by

now, then they are sorrier a lot than can be imagined.

(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

Friday July 17, 2020

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

The people who have ultimate disrespect for the African race

I

n my column of Monday, May 25, 2020 under the title: “The APNU+AFC losing the battle because of their insults,” I wrote the following – “Here is what one of Guyana’s most prominent diaspora supporter of APNU told me on Thursday night. There will be no sanctions against Guyana should the Granger government remain in power because the congressional Black caucus in the US will not allow it.

Here is my take on how they will stop it.”

The Congressional Black Caucus has 59 members.

These are people who have dedicated their lives and politics to the entitlement of Black people in America.

These are people whose lives are under scrutiny because once they falter the white right-wing press, the white dominated Republican Party and the Trump Government will immediately try to dirty them.

Three times since the attempts to rig the election, beginning with Mingo’s public statistical masturbation, GuyaneseAmerican citizens went to the Black Caucus to support rigged elections in Guyana.

On each occasion, they were diplomatically informed that the issue will be looked into.

On all three occasions, these usual suspects (all of us in Guyana know who these worms and rats are), deceived the members of the Black Caucus whose support they requested. These rats and worms are stupid to the point that they are not fit to even be seen talking to the Black Caucus.

The era in which you can live in England and fool people living there about your devious tales in Guyana is long gone.

We live in a world where in London when you tell Mary that her friend Margaret Jones is lying about domestic abuse, all Mary has to do is type on her

keyboard while on the internet and the following line, “Margaret Jones in Guyana accuses her husband of domestic abuse” appears.

That search will reveal several items where it will show stories of how abusive Jones’ husband is. So what did these gutter rats tell the Black Caucus?

Here it is and herein lies the disrespect these African Guyanese surrogates have for the African race.

They told the people that a Black party is under siege in Guyana where an Indian party, Indian money and an American lobbying firm rigged the 2020 election to deny Black Guyanese their entitlements in Guyana.

Contemptuous of the intelligence of the Black Caucus, these powerful congress people went and did their research. And guess what? They came across statements by people they know intimately and who are their friends. And who are these people? Some very big

names in the African race – Former Barbados Prime Minister, Owen Arthur; former Jamaican Prime Minister, Bruce Golding; current Trinidadian Prime Minister, Keith Rowley; current Barbados Prime Minister, Mia Mottley; former Attorney-General in the British government, and current Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Baroness Scotland.

The rats and worms failed and never returned to see the Black Caucus.

The American legislators knew they were deceived. But more importantly, the Black Caucus read the condescending, abusive and defaming descriptions that were heaped upon these gigantic Caribbean figures.

These rats and worms were willing and nasty enough to see damage come to the credibility of the Black Caucus because there was no PPP conspiracy in the 2020 election.

The Black Caucus was given evidence that Mingo, Lowenfield, and David Granger and his acolytes in the PNC, AFC and WPA were attempting to rig the Guyana election since March.

I m a g i n e t h e embarrassment when members of the Black Caucus went to their fellow Democratic legislators and the Democratic Senators and request that they protect the Granger presidency from PPP riggers only to find out that it is Granger and his acolytes that are rigging the elections and for four months have defied the world.

We a r e n ’ t h e a r i n g anything about the Black Caucus.

The worms and rats are parading in front of the world cussing down past and present CARICOM leaders, cussing down the Caribbean Court of Justice jurists, cussing down the diplomatic envoys in Guyana from the ABC countries and the EU

Frederick Kissoon but there is not even one rat or worm that is quoting a member of the Black Caucus that is in support of Granger or Harmon. Harmon is rumoured to be an American citizen and is supposed to have given up his American citizenship but to date there is no proof available that he did so.

So I end with my quote from my May column.

The Black Caucus was supposed to stop sanctions.

These African Guyanese really think the African race consist of stupid people so they can fool them. But then again, they are fooling their own African brethren here in Guyana.

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

Friday July 17, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

PAGE 12

Friday July 17, 2020

Ministry reports high turnout for CSEC and CAPE - says 100 percent attendance at Region Three schools

West Demerara Secondary students seated in the exam room.

Stewartville Secondary School students seated to write Principles of Accounts.

Four days into the sitting of the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), public school students have turned out in very satisfactory numbers.

At least this is according to a statement issued yesterday by the Ministry of E d u c a t i o n ’s P u b l i c Relations Department. The Ministry revealed that in Region Three (Essequibo Island-West Demerara), students have been attending their institutions to sit their exams and that there have

been no issues with absenteeism for the examinations written to date.

Ye s t e r d a y, s t u d e n t s across the country wrote Principles of Accounts (POA) and during visits to four Region Three schools West Demerara, Stewartville, Leonora and Uitvlugt - it was noted that all students registered to write this exam were present.

Head-teacher of the West Demerara Secondary, Mr. Harrinarine, said he was very satisfied with the conduct of the examinations to date.

According to the headteacher, the impeccable

attendance is an indication of the importance of the examination to students and their parents along with their hardworking teachers.

Mr. Harrinarine confirmed that since CSEC and CAPE commenced on M o n d a y, a l l s t u d e n t s registered to write the various exams were present.

The situation at the other three schools mirrored that of the West Demerara Secondary.

One student, in an invited comment ahead of yesterday’s exam, said he was looking forward to it and was confident that he was

going to do well. At all of the schools, the COVID-19 guidelines, which were set out in the gazetted and published examination order No. 73/2020, were being stringently enforced.

Students, teachers and persons permitted to be in the respective schools’ compound are required to wear a facemask at all times.

Additionally, hand-washing and sanitizing must be done at the entrance of the school.

The students are required to be two meters or six feet apart from each other at all times. Playing and gathering are prohibited and the Ministry has also prohibited vending outside schools to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone.

A Leonora Secondary School student temperature being tested before entering the examination room.

Temperature testing is also mandatory and, according to the Ministry, Education

Officers will be visiting schools across the country to (Continued on page 14)

Uitvlugt Secondary School students receiving instructions from the invigilator before the exam.

Kaieteur News

Friday July 17, 2020

PAGE 13

Court sets date to hear K/News publisher’s lawsuit to quash East Coast land deals

T

he court case filed

by Kaieteur News Publisher, Glenn Lall, to quash the June 11, sale of 130 acres of prime East Coast Demerara (ECD) lands by the incumbent, A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition government is scheduled to come up for hearing on August 13, 2020 in the Georgetown High Court.

Kaieteur News was told that the parties involved in the case, including National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), Colvin HeathLondon; Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, and the Attorney General, Basil Williams, have been served with the court action.

The case, which is set to come up at 10am before Justice Sandra Kurtzious on August 13 concerns an application filed by the publisher seeking a declaration from the Court that the de facto Finance Minister and NICIL had no power or authority to transfer state lands to any person or entity not under the control of the Minister, pursuant to Sections 8 and 11 of the Public Corporations Act (PCA); Cap. 19:05.

The court document stipulates that Lall wants orders from the Court aimed at quashing the deals made on June 11, 2020 by Minister Jordan and NICIL that were published in the Official

Kaieteur News Publisher, Glenn Lall

Finance Minister Winston Jordan Gazette numbered Orders No. 64, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72 and 73 – on the grounds that the sale was unlawful, made without legal a u t h o r i t y, u l t r a v i r e s , malicious, made in excess of jurisdiction, made without a d e q u a t e l e g a l consideration, null void and of no legal effect.

According to the application, he referred to Sections 8 and 11 of the PCA, which stipulates that the Minister of Finance is empowered to authorize the transfer of State properties from only entities of the State. The PCA and its provisions of vesting order in general are not intended to apply to private companies.

Citing specific sections of the PCA, Lall contends that the Minister cannot transfer property owned by NICIL to any private individual.

He noted that all of the entities to which the lands were sold are private companies and that the PCA and its provisions of vesting orders in general are not applicable to private companies which meant that the purported transfer by Minister Jordan was unlawful, ultra vires and null and void.

“The essential and key precondition of the statue is that it applies to property of State being transferred to an entity under the control of the Minister, there is no authority to vest the specific State to these companies as mentioned in Orders published in the Official Gazette,” the applicant stated.

Subsequent to the filing of the application, Lall explained that, “the patrimony of this country must be disposed of transparently and in a

manner which ensures value for money.”

He added that “if the lands and the country’s

natural resources, which are being given out, are done in a transparent manner and at real market value, Guyana

can alleviate poverty, eliminate its foreign debt and triple the salaries of public (Continued on page 18)

Kaieteur News

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Friday July 17, 2020

North West man is Guyana’s - cases 19th COVID-19 fatality now at 314

T

he Ministry of Public Health has confirmed Guyana’s 19th COVID-19 death. The deceased is a 36year-old man from the North West District, Region One. According to reports, the man passed away at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) We d n e s d a y a f t e r n o o n following complications from the disease.

It is understood that he is a resident of Matarkai subdistrict in the North West District.

Region One remains the epicenter for COVID-19 with 95 confirmed cases.

As of yesterday, Guyana confirmed 314 cases with

162 recoveries.

In institutional isolation, there were 133 active cases and eight persons in institutional quarantine.

Five persons were also in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

During the Ministry of Public Health’s daily update, Deputy Chief Medical Officer (DCMO), Dr. Karen Boyle, said that the 21-60 age group represents 70% of all infections locally.

She also provided a breakdown of the number of reported cases in each region. Region One accounts for 95 cases; Region Two- 1; Region Three- 26; Region Four- 119; Region Six- 1; Region Seven – 48; Region

Police seeking help to identify body of battered man

W

eeks after the body of a man was discovered with visible wounds to the face and other parts, police in Region 5 are yet to identify him.

Moreover, police in a release issued yesterday said that they are seeking assistance from the general public.

Kaieteur News understands that the lifeless body of the man was found on the Rosignol Public Road, West Coast Berbice on June 26, 2020 around 05:00 hrs.

In a graphic image shared by police, the man’s face appears to be battered and smeared with blood. Police have also deciphered that the medium built man is of East Indian descent and appears to be in his 40s with a height of 5ft 5 inches.

The body, which is currently at the Bailey’s Funeral Home awaiting identification and subsequent post mortem, was found clad in a pair of long blue jeans and a black short-sleeve shirt. Persons with information that can help to identify the man can contact the Guyana Police Force on telephone numbers: *232-0313, 232-0291, 911 or call or visit the nearest police station.

The battered body of the unidentified man.

Ministry reports high turnout ...

From page 12 ensure that there is full compliance with the order.

“Therefore, all preventive measures are implemented and will be monitored throughout the examination,” the Ministry said in its statement.

The two exams, CSEC and CAPE, are scheduled to be written from July 13 - August 4 and July 13- 31 respectively.

For CSEC, there are 168 centres with 11,998 students registered to write that exam while for CAPE, there are 851 candidates registered to write at 15 centres across the country.

Eight –3; Region Nine– 11 and Region 10 - 10. Region Five remains COVID-19 free to date.

Meanwhile, turning her attention to Region Seven, the DCMO commended the efforts of “all those involved in this campaign to protect

residents from the coronavirus disease.”

In their efforts to control the outbreak there, the DCMO said that the region has set up an isolation centre to house 10 persons.

A total of 273 tests were conducted in the region to

date and 77 of these are currently pending results, she said.

A team from the Public H e a l t h M i n i s t r y, i n collaboration with the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and the Region 7 Regional Democratic

Council (RDC), is currently conducting a three-day visit to three frontline villages Arau, Kaikan and Eteringbang, the DCMO added.

The team, she said, is expected to remain in the region until tomorrow.

Kaieteur News

Friday July 17, 2020

PAGE 15

CARICOM heads to hold special meeting on Guyana A

ccording to the r e c e n t l y i n s t a l l e d Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the regional body is expected to convene a special meeting on Guyana. This development will come after a more than four-month long electoral impasse. The new Chairman, who is also the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, shared knowledge of this special meeting yesterday during a Jamaican radio programme with Ritchie B. During the interview, PM Gonsalves reiterated the need for a credible declaration to be announced by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) so that a peaceful transition of the newly elected government could follow.

“The declaration,” Dr. Gonsalves said, “needs to be done very swiftly by GECOM, because you know the pressure is building up and there is likely to be

commotion, strife and maybe even civil war.”

It is against this that the CARICOM Chair disclosed that an assembly would be convened with other regional heads of states to deliberate on the way forward.

Dr. Gonsalves said that on Wednesday, he was in discussions with the CARICOM SecretaryGeneral, Ambassador Irwin LaRoque, during which they agreed that, “we would await a decision by the High Court proceedings, following which the meeting would be held.”

Following scathing statements from the international community on Wednesday, where it was revealed that the United States has imposed Visa restrictions on the incumbent President and executives of his party, among others, the St. Vincent PM penned a damning editorial in which he stated that “vile, frivolous and vexatious attempts” were being deployed to

hijack Guyana’s democracy.

The proceeding filed by Coalition support Misenja Jones, seeks to have the High Court force GECOM to make a declaration on results what were recently invalided by the Chair of the Elections Commission. Chief Justice Roxane George-Wilshire is expected to make a ruling on that case, today.

When the question was posed to Dr. Gonsalves regarding whether sanctions would follow from CARICOM, the Chair took the opportunity not to speculate. Rather he said, “I won’t be able, without a meeting of the heads, to speak on that; and it would be immature to speak on that.

But clearly CARICOM has spoken and has spoken with one voice.”

He continued, “Look, we have to defend democracy and we are on the side of the angels.

This thing is taking too long. It is a blot on Guyana. It is a blot on CARICOM and we can’t be indifferent to

what is happening.”

P r e v i o u s l y, f o r m e r Barbadian PM, Owen Arthur, said that Guyana cannot withstand the fire of the entire global community, as he hinted at the expulsion of Guyana from CARICOM and the Commonwealth should election results riddled by incredibility be declared.

During an interview with Kaieteur Radio in June, Arthur had said that “What is

happening right now is quite frankly holding up Guyana, improperly so too, and is being made an international laughing stock. Guyana faces the possibility of suspension and expulsion from the CARICOM Community as a result of not having elections results that are “free and fair”.

Those are consequences, according to Arthur, the country may not be able to withstand.

CARICOM Chair, PM Ralph Gonsalves

COVID-19 curfew extended to 8pm - Berbice curfew-free Monday to Friday The national COVID-19 curfew will now span the period 8pm to 6am in all regions with the exception of Five and Six. In Regions Five and Six, the curfew has been lifted from Monday through Friday but will be in effect on Saturday and Sunday.

This comes as part of the phase three reopening of the country as recommended by the National COVID-19 Task Force. As part of this development, public sector will resume work from tomorrow. In a statement yesterday, the Task Force announced that the re-opening process which takes effect from tomorrow (Saturday, July 18) will continue until July 31, 2020. Meanwhile the curfew in the Aranka/Arangoy/Moruca areas will remain in effect from 6pm to 6am daily and continue until August 3, 2020.

“In the COVID-19 Emergency Measures Order No. 6, the Public Sector is allowed to

resume work from tomorrow on a rotation basis unless otherwise instructed by their respective Minister or Head of Agency,” the statement said. Additionally, “food services and restaurants are now permitted to open for delivery, drive-thru, curb-side pick up and take away service from 6am to midnight daily. While, outdoor dining at restaurants is now allowed from 6am to 6pm. However, these conditions apply; all tables must be spaced six feet apart from each other and no more than four persons are to be seated at one table and they must be at least three feet apart.”Further, it was noted that, “restaurant staff must wear a mask at all times and must sanitise dining tables and chairs after use by each customer. Indoor and buffet dining is still prohibited.” The order also stipulates that no more than 10 persons will be allowed (Continued on page 16)

PAGE 16

Friday July 17, 2020

Kaieteur News

Local businesses can apply for technical assistance grants The Ministry of Business announced yesterday that Guyana is among 13 Caribbean countries that have qualified to benefit from

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technical assistance grants.

The grants are being made available through the Technical Extension Programme with Compete Caribbean, a private sector development programme.

The grants, which are available to local small and medium size companies with high growth potential, aim at raising the operational standards of businesses to that of international standards through the i m p l e m entation of information technology and capacity building programmes for employees.

The intention is to help increase productivity and innovation in the Caribbean private sector.

According to Compete Caribbean’s website, Technology Extension Services (TES) is not focused on creating new technologies but rather on increasing access to, and adoption of, already existing technologies, and processes. It was pointed out “This may take the form of bringing firms up to national and international standards, exposing them to opportunities for improvement by

incorporating existing technologies, best practices, technical assistance and consulting human resource development, strategic management, etc.”

In order to qualify to receive the grants, businesses are required to have generated at least US$250,000 but less than US$1.5 million in revenues pre-COVID-19 or employ between five to 50 persons, and operate within the tourism and manufacturing sector, including agro processing.

Selected companies will receive technical support from experts in defining and implementing projects to boost the operating capacity of businesses.

Compete Caribbean is a private sector development programme, partnering with

the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), The Caribbean Development Bank, UK Aid and the government of Canada. It aims to provide technical assistance grants and investment funding to support productive development policies, business climate reforms as well as clustering initiatives.

According to Compete Caribbean, TES is crucial to the process of bringing Caribbean firms to a point where they can successfully innovate, compete on a global scale, and stimulate vibrant economic growth.

Businesses can complete the eligibility application by visiting Compete Caribbean’s website (www.competecaribbean.org) or its Facebook page.

COVID-19 curfew extended to...

From page 15 to gather at any place and all individuals venturing out must wear a facemask at all times.

Public transportation services will also be permitted to operate at a 75% passenger capacity. This, how-

ever, will not apply to Aranka, Arangoy and Moruca, which are expected to operate at a 50% passenger capacity. Private sector construction, clothing, shoes and bookstores are also permitted to resume operations.

The Chief Elections Officer is not a...

From page 6 Se c t i o n 1 8 s t a t e s t h a t , “ T h e C h i e f Elections Officer and the Commissioner of Registration shall notwithstanding anything in any written law be subject to the direction and control of the Commission” It is clear here that he is to be guided, instructed by the Commission.

I looked at the Representation of the People Act Section 100 (1) which states “upon the conclusion of the final counting under Section 95, of the votes the Returning Officers in the presence... shall (a) seal in a separate package the counted and rejected votes”. Section (d) states, “prepare a written statement as to the result of the verification of ballot papers counted”. (f) states “deliver the results to the CEO a return in writing in respect of the final counting in form 24 which shall set out the number of (i) valid votes cast for each list of candidates.

Interestingly enough Section 100 (2) deals with the package that is to be put into the ballot boxes and this section states, “The Returning Officer shall not open the sealed packets containing tendered ballot papers, marked copies of the official list of electors or part thereof or counter foils of used ballot papers.”

I am thinking that the outcry of the missing documents is just hot air because in my opinion, it is not supposed to be open anyway.

With reference to the advice, the CEO is to furnish the Commission, it may be important to examine order 60/2020, Section 9 of which

states, “The tabulation of Statement of Recount… shall be input into a matrix … information from this tabulation should be broadcast periodically.”

Section 11 says that the signed Matrix produced shall be transmitted to the CEO with copies given to all including the Chair and made available to the public. Section 12 states, “the matrices for the ten (10) Electoral Districts shall then be tabulated by the CEO and shall be submitted in a report, together with a summary of the observation report for each district to the Commission”. It is important to note the use of the word “shall”.

Section 14 states, “The Commission after deliberating on the report at paragraph 11 (note not the report of the CEO but the matrices of the districts) shall determine whether it should request the CEO to use data compiled in accordance with paragraph 11 as the basis for submission of a report under Section 96 of The representation of Peoples Act Cap 1:03. Clearly, this states the power of the Commission over the CEO ad so the Commission can define exactly what advice the CEO is supposed to give. The CEO is a creature of the Commission.

Section 15 adds support and makes the powers of the Commission definitive without a doubt. It States, “For the avoidance of any doubt, the CEO and every person appointed or authorized to perform any act or function by virtue of this order, are and shall remain subject to the general supervisory power of the Commission.” Now, in my , it is clear it is clear that the law does not give to the CEO powers to determine anything. His job is to tabulate and this tabulation is the advice he has to render to the Commission. It is clear that he is no law unto himself.

Yours truly, Rajendra Bisessar

Friday July 17, 2020

PAGE 17

Kaieteur News

Contractor killed execution-style The construction site at D’Urban Street.

Executed: Kissoondath Premsukh

T

he owner of KP Construction Ser vices Limited, Kissoondath Premsukh, was yesterday executed in the presence of one of his clients.

The incident occurred at a construction site located on D’Urban Street, Georgetown, next door to the Morgan Learning Center.

The execution-style killing of the 49-year-old contractor of Lusignan, East Coast Demerara (ECD) took place just after 17:00 hrs.

According to eyewitness accounts, two men rode up on a motorcycle and the pillion rider hopped off and walked into a yard (construction site) where Premsukh was in discussion with a client. The pillion rider, according to reports, opened fire hitting Premsukh who fell to the ground.

The shooter then trotted out of the yard and joined his accomplice waiting on the

motorcycle.

Persons nearby, who witnessed the incident, rushed Premsukh’s to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) in a white pickup. At the hospital, doctors pronounced him dead on arrival.

Kaieteur News subsequently learnt that Premsukh sustained a single gunshot wound to the head.

One of his employees told this publication that minutes before the contractor was shot, he had instructed workers to push in a few extra hours of work and had told them to “start-up a generator to saw up some boards”.

While they were working, the employee said that they saw persons running into the yard.

Upon investigating, they saw their boss and his client lying on the ground. Upon closer inspection, the employee said that Premsukh was seen

The spot where the contractor was slain.

bleeding from the head. The client, who was not hit, soon after got up and left.

This publication visited the client’s home to ascertain what really took place but the individual was too traumatized to speak.

It was later revealed that this was not the first attack on Premsukh’s life. In fact, police are still tracking two suspects who had shot the contractor twice in the leg last month while he was entering a supermarket at Coldingen,

ECD. Premsukh had told Kaieteur News then that he had a clue of who his attackers were. He even claimed that he had received threats on his life prior to that. He never revealed why but said that he was working hand in hand

with police to find his attackers. However, police had found no leads on Premsukh’s attackers.

This newspaper also learnt that the man was involved in an ongoing land dispute.

Kaieteur News

Friday July 17, 2020

PAGE 18

Chan Santokhi is the new president of Suriname (StarNieuws) Outgoing president Desi Bouterse yesterday put on the presidential sash for his successor Chan Santokhi.

The transfer of power in the country took place at an extraordinary public meeting in Independence Square.

In a totally open atmosphere, outdoors, in the bright morning sun in the presence of the outgoing government, diplomatic representatives, other officials and the public, Santokhi was inaugurated as the tenth president of Suriname.The new President of Suriname took the following oath in the hands of Assembly President Marinus Bee: “I swear (declare) that I have given or promised, under any name or under any pretext, in connection with my election as President of the Republic of Suriname (Vice-President) to anyone, regardless of who he is, nor will I give or promise.

I swear (promise) that, in order to do or not to do anything whatsoever in this office, I will not take any promises or gifts from anyone whatsoever, directly or indirectly.

I swear (promise) that I in fulfilling the Presidential (Vice-Presidential) office, will stand for, observe and promote the interests of the country and the people with all my ability I swear (promise) that I will do as much as possible to the

independence and territory of the Republic of Suriname will defend and preserve; that I will protect the general and special liberty and the rights of all and use to the preservation and promotion of the general and special prosperity all the means which the laws and circumstances make available to me, as a good and faithful President owes is.

I s w e a r ( p ro m i s e ) obedience to the Constitution and all other legal regulations. I swear (promise) faithfully to the Republic of Suriname.

So truly help God Almighty (I declare and promise!) “I swear (promise) faithfully to the Republic of Suriname. So truly help God Almighty (I declare and promise!) “I swear (promise) faithfully to the Republic of Suriname. So truly help God Almighty (I declare and promise!) “ After Santokhi took his oath, several spiritual leaders blessed the new president.

Outgoing President Bouterse expressed his willingness to sign the transfer protocol, which he did. Santokhi accepted the office of President of Suriname and signed the associated proclamation.

The final signature on the documents was from divorce minister Mike Noersalim of the Interior.

Divorcing President Bouterse wished the new president and vice president

much wisdom and strength in pulling the cart.

“There is a lot of work to be done.”

In a completely different atmosphere than usual, President of the Parliament Marinus Bee chaired the extraordinary meeting. A lot of space was planned for the various cultural expressions on this special day for Suriname.

Taking into account COVID-19 measures, the organization succeeded in establishing a worthy platform for the solemn occasion.

It was around 11 am. After all duties, the symbol of the Republic of Suriname was formally attached. President Desi Bouterse said goodbye after 10 years and Chan Santokhi took office. (Image: STVS)

Kaieteur News

Friday July 17, 2020

PAGE 19

Chan Santokhi is the new president of Suriname (StarNieuws) Outgoing president Desi Bouterse yesterday put on the presidential sash for his successor Chan Santokhi.

The transfer of power in the country took place at an extraordinary public meeting in Independence Square.

In a totally open atmosphere, outdoors, in the bright morning sun in the presence of the outgoing government, diplomatic representatives, other officials and the public, Santokhi was inaugurated as the tenth president of Suriname.The new President of Suriname took the following oath in the hands of Assembly President Marinus Bee: “I swear (declare) that I have given or promised, under any name or under any pretext, in connection with my election as President of the Republic of Suriname (Vice-President) to anyone, regardless of who he is, nor will I give or promise.

I swear (promise) that, in order to do or not to do anything whatsoever in this office, I will not take any promises or gifts from anyone whatsoever, directly or indirectly.

I swear (promise) that I in fulfilling the Presidential (Vice-Presidential) office, will stand for, observe and promote the interests of the country and the people with all my ability I swear (promise) that I will do as much as possible to the

independence and territory of the Republic of Suriname will defend and preserve; that I will protect the general and special liberty and the rights of all and use to the preservation and promotion of the general and special prosperity all the means which the laws and circumstances make available to me, as a good and faithful President owes is.

I s w e a r ( p ro m i s e ) obedience to the Constitution and all other legal regulations. I swear (promise) faithfully to the Republic of Suriname.

So truly help God Almighty (I declare and promise!) “I swear (promise) faithfully to the Republic of Suriname. So truly help God Almighty (I declare and promise!) “I swear (promise) faithfully to the Republic of Suriname. So truly help God Almighty (I declare and promise!) “ After Santokhi took his oath, several spiritual leaders blessed the new president.

Outgoing President Bouterse expressed his willingness to sign the transfer protocol, which he did. Santokhi accepted the office of President of Suriname and signed the associated proclamation.

The final signature on the documents was from divorce minister Mike Noersalim of the Interior.

Divorcing President Bouterse wished the new president and vice president

much wisdom and strength in pulling the cart.

“There is a lot of work to be done.”

In a completely different atmosphere than usual, President of the Parliament Marinus Bee chaired the extraordinary meeting. A lot of space was planned for the various cultural expressions on this special day for Suriname.

Taking into account COVID-19 measures, the organization succeeded in establishing a worthy platform for the solemn occasion.

It was around 11 am. After all duties, the symbol of the Republic of Suriname was formally attached. President Desi Bouterse said goodbye after 10 years and Chan Santokhi took office. (Image: STVS)

PAGE 20

Kaieteur News

Friday July 17, 2020

Friday July 17, 2020

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Public have the wrong idea of footballers, Wanjiru scorches to convincing 10,000m says FIFPRO BERN (Reuters) - The perception that footballers do not live up to their social responsibilities has been debunked by their “incredible initiatives” during the COVID-19 pandemic, the global players’ union FIFPRO said in a report published Thursday (yesterday).

The report, which highlights contributions made by professional footballers in fighting the effects of the pandemic, said that a large number of players have been “generous and creative” during the crisis.

Among other things, they

have created dedicated funds, set up charities to donate to food banks and to fund medical equipment in hospitals, and taken part in campaigns to raise awareness and protect people from catching the virus, the report says.

“Professional football players and athletes across sports have developed incredible initiatives around the world to help their communities, their clubs and teams and often their team mates,” said FIFPRO general secretary Jonas BaerHoffmann.

victory in Abashiri

“The public perception of athletes not living up to their social responsibility could not be more wrong.”

Examples listed include AS Monaco forward Keita Balde, who helped 200 Senegalese workers based in

Friday July 17, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) This is a good day for you to analyze information, Aries. You have an especially acute business sense, which you should use to your advantage.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You're a conscientious, hard worker, Taurus, but today your thoughts are more on home than work. You feel especially close to your family and friends. They mean the most to you.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today is likely to be another busy one for you, Gemini. You might have a volunteer activity in the morning and then get roped into running errands in the afternoon.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) You have a strong spirit of cooperation today, Cancer.

It inspires you to pitch in and help others without being asked. Your romantic partner could be surprised to see you show up and help with a chore.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Keep your eyes and ears open to all new possibilities, Leo. Even if it isn't your habit to read the "Help Wanted" section of the newspaper, do so today.

You might be surprised at what you find there.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Today your strong sense of nostalgia likely has you leaning toward all things old. If you do some furniture shopping, you'll be drawn to antique shops rather than contemporary stores.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) This is bound to be a wonderful day, Libra, as everybody seems to be in a warm and congenial mood. You and your romantic partner, in particular, are feeling especially close and connected today.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You have much to be grateful for, Scorpio. Why not go out tonight and celebrate with friends? Forget about work and family troubles and kick up your heels.

Have a high old time.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You're eager and optimistic today, Sagittarius, which works well with your strong, capable nature.

You're likely to find that things begin to click into place at work.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Today should be devoted to paperwork and getting your financial affairs and budgets in order, Capricorn.

Once this is done, you can relax in the evening with friends and loved ones.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) All financial undertakings have good aspects today, Aquarius. It could be that you have been thinking of starting a new business venture.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) This is bound to be a wonderful day, Pisces. You're looking and feeling great and it shows! This is a day of kindness and cooperation. You could find that your family pitches in to help at home without being asked.

Spain after they lost their jobs, and Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford who helped persuade the British government to extend a school meals scheme.

It also said that players had helped each other. In one case, a group of senior Irish international players contributed to an emergency fund to help footballers in the country’s domestic league who were in financial difficulties.

The players’ union in Botswana distributed food to players at seven clubs, plus 50 female players as well, it said. The report also pointed out that life for a majority of footballers outside the elite is “frequently uncertain and highly competitive.”

It said that in men’s football, more than 45% of players earn less than $1,000 a month, 41% receive late pay and in most cases have short contracts. In women’s football, the majority of players earn less than $600 a month.

“The belief that footballers live carefree and wealthy lives has led supporters and the general public to have high expectations when it comes to players’ shared responsibility towards fighting the virus,” it said.

“But many players during this time have even relied on food parcels and financial support packages to survive.”

WorldAthletics - Ten days after opening her 2020 track campaign with a 5000m win in Fukagawa, Kenya’s Rosemary Wanjiru was once again victorious, this time over 10,000m, on Wednesday (15) in Abashiri at the third meeting in the Hokuren Distance Challenge series.

The 25-year-old finished 45 seconds ahead of her nearest rival, Japan’s Mao Ichiyama, to win in 30:38.18, just three seconds shy of the PB she set when finishing fourth over the distance at last year’s World Championships in Doha.

Wanjiru led from the outset and after just a couple of laps had only two other women for company: Japan’s Mao Ichiyama and Mizuki Matsuda.

After covering the first kilometre in 3:08, Wanjiru started to gradually increase the pace.

Ichiyama, who earned selection for Japan’s Olympic team after winning this year’s Nagoya Marathon in 2:20:29, started to lose contact with Wanjiru about 10-and-a-half minutes into the race. Wanjiru, meanwhile, was locked into 3:043:05 kilometre pace, reaching the half-way point in 15:24.

She covered the second half even quicker and, increasing her winning margin with each lap, crossed the finish line in 30:38.18.

Needless to say, in a year with very few competitions, Wanjiru’s time is a world-leading mark.

Although it was close to her track PB, Wanjiru has clocked 29:50 – the third-fastest time in history –

Kenyan distance runner Rosemary Wanjiru (AFP/Getty Images) on the roads.

Running alone for the final six kilometres, Ichiyama held on to second place and was rewarded with a PB of 31:23.30.

Jonathan Ndiku, best known for his steeplechase exploits, won the men’s 10,000m ‘A’ race in 27:23.47. The two-time world U20 steeplechase champion finished comfortably ahead of fellow Kenyans Alexander Mutiso (27:44.37) and Richard Kimunyan Yator (27:49.35).

Yuma Hattori, who has also been named on Japan’s Olympic marathon team, was fourth in 27:56.32, taking 13 seconds off his PB from five years ago.

Elsewhere in Abashiri, world U20 champion Nozomi Tanaka – who last week set a Japanese 3000m record of 8:41.35 – won the women’s 5000m in 15:02.62, beating Kenya’s Hellen Ekarare (15:03.09). Benard Kibet Koech, meanwhile, won the men’s 5000m in 13:11.77.

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Friday July 17, 2020

Kaieteur News

Jofra Archer: Ashley Giles says protocol Africa Cup of Nations 2023 breach could have been ‘disaster’ to be played in June/July

Jofra Archer has taken 33 wickets in eight Tests for England BBCsport - Jofra Archer’s breach of the bio-secure protocols could have been a “disaster” for England’s summer, says director of cricket Ashley Giles. The pace bowler, 25, was dropped for the second Test against West Indies for visiting his home after the first Test.

All of England’s home matches this year are being played behind closed doors and in a bio-secure environment. “The ripple effect it could have had could have cost us tens of millions of pounds,” said Giles.

The coronavirus pandemic has forced England to hold the three-Test series against West Indies, and subsequent tours by Ireland, Pakistan and possibly Australia in secure locations at the Ageas Bowl and Emirates Old Trafford.

Not only has great expense and time gone into those plans, but anything that compromises them could potentially cost the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) vast sums in broadcasting revenue.

Giles said: “The potential

knock-on effect of this, I don’t think he could have fully understood. “We made it very clear what the protocols mean, but maybe he didn’t quite understand what the consequences could be.”

After leaving the Ageas Bowl, where England lost the first Test, Archer went to his home in Brighton, before travelling to Manchester for the second Test, which started on Thursday (yesterday).

Giles said Archer was not at home for a “particularly long period of time” and that he visited someone who has since returned a negative coronavirus test. On Wednesday evening, Archer told one of the members of the England management team that he went home, and he was subsequently removed from a 13-man squad announced earlier that day.

He must now serve a fiveday period of isolation and return two negative coronavirus tests before he can rejoin the England squad.

“There will be a disciplinary process to go through,” said former

England spinner Giles.

“That’s ongoing. That’s an employment matter and we’ll settle that in good time. “Jofra has demonstrated how sorry he is, but it’s clearly very disappointing for the whole group. He’s a young man and young men make mistakes, and he’s just got to learn from them.”

Archer was due to be the only member of the England pace attack retained from the first Test, but with his period of isolation lasting the whole of the second, he may not return for the third, which is also in Manchester.

Asked about Archer ’s availability to play in the final match of the series, England coach Chris Silverwood told BBC Sport: “There’s ongoing conversations and I’ll be speaking to Ashley. “We’re speaking to Jofra a lot. The guys will rally round, make sure he’s doing alright, phone him, deliver his meals, so we’ve got all sorts to be doing. “I’ve got a feeling he’s probably learnt a lot in the past 24 hours. It is something that will be spelt out to him as well.”

LPGA’s Marathon Classic in Ohio to proceed without spectators Reuters - The LPGA’s Marathon Classic next month in Sylvania, Ohio will be held without spectators due to the COVID-19 outbreak, tournament organisers said on Thursday (yesterday).

The Aug. 3-9 Marathon Classic at Highland Meadows Golf Club will be held a week after the elite women’s professional golf circuit, which has been idle since February, resumes in Toledo, Ohio for a spectator-free Drive On Championship.

“The organisers of the Marathon Classic and the LPGA have made the right decision in not allowing fans to attend this year,” Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said in a statement.

“I know it was a difficult decision, but they have made the right call to put the health and safety of players and fans first.”

The Marathon Classic had planned to offer free admission to frontline workers and grocery store employees this year in addition to

Associated Press military, police, fire, and emergency medical services. The offer will be extended to next year’s tournament.

Earlier this week it was announced that the PGA Tour would conduct the rest of its season without spectators.

BBCsport - The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations will take place in June and July, says the acting Secretary General of Confederation of African Football (Caf), Abdel Bah. The timing of the competition has been the subject of speculation after President Ahmad stated in June that it would take place in 2023 while saying he ‘did not know what month’.

“As of today (yesterday), the 2023 Nations Cup is planned for June/July because, to make it clear, in the regulations we have decided to play all Nations Cups in June/July,” Bah told BBC Sport Africa.

In 2017, Caf decided to schedule all future Nations Cup for these months, enshrining the change in its tournament regulations. The next Nations Cup will take place in January 2022 however owing to unfavourable weather conditions in Cameroon in June and July, when the host country suffers some of the wettest months of the year.

“The Nations Cup in

The Africa Cup of Nations. (Getty Images) Cameroon, after the request of the authorities, was postponed to January/ February,” added Bah. “As of today, we haven’t received the same request from Ivorian authorities.”

Given that Ivory Coast suffers its wettest month of the year in June, such a request should not be ruled out. However a move to earlier

dates in 2023 could prove difficult as the 2022 World Cup will be played between 21 November and 18 December.

With a Nations Cup in early 2022 and mid-2023, and the 2022 World Cup it means some of Africa’s leading footballers could play three major tournaments in the space of 18 months.

Athletics: U.S. sprinter Stevens banned 18 months for missed tests Reuters - American sprinter Deajah Stevens, who reached the 2016 Rio Olympics 200 metres final, was banned 18 months for missing anti-doping tests and will be ineligible for next year’s Tokyo Games, the Athletics Integrity Unit said on Thursday (yesterday).

The ban handed down to Stevens, who won the U.S. 200m title a year after finishing seventh in the Olympics final, has been backdated to begin on Feb. 17, 2020, and will expire at midnight on Aug. 16, 2021, eight days after the Tokyo Olympics conclude.

The three missed tests came in February, August and November of 2019, according to the ruling from Stevens’ disciplinary hearing.

The ruling said that on the first occasion, the doping control officer could not reach the American’s specified location due to restricted access at the given address in Oregon and attempts to reach her by phone were unsuccessful.

For the early-morning August 2019 test in West Hollywood, Stevens claims her phone had run out of battery overnight and she only saw the five missed calls when she woke up.

Three knocks on her door over a 22-minute span went unanswered.

On the final missed test, Stevens said she was at her residence during the 60minute window but had changed her phone number to avoid harassment by an unknown individual who had threatened her fiance’s life.

According to the doping control officer, access to the building on the final visit was restricted as Steven’s name was not on the building directory, which the sprinter said she requested due to the claims of harassment. Stevens has the right to appeal the decision.

Deajah Stevens

Friday July 17, 2020

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Kaieteur News

Dom Sibley, Ben Stokes steel England after early drama ESPNcricinfo - It was slow, steady and perfectly suited to England’s needs after a difficult start - on and off the field. Dom Sibley’s 86 not out, amid an unbroken 126-run stand for the fourth wicket with Ben Stokes, rescued his side from 81 for 3 and put them in a far more comfortable position at the close than appeared likely earlier in the first day of a must-win match for the hosts.

It was a day when the drama of Jofra Archer’s match-morning omission for breaching biosecurity protocols by stopping by his house in Brighton en route from Southampton to Manchester dominated the narrative.

But Sibley did the needful for England in the face of a West Indies bowling performance which stuttered, then contained the hosts before running into serious resistance as Sibley and Stokes saw their side to stumps still only three wickets down.

It could have been so much worse for England when they lost Rory Burns, Zak Crawley and Joe Root cheaply. Jason Holder won the toss and elected to bowl first in hopes of making the

Alzarri Joseph celebrates the wicket of Joe Root © Getty Images most of gloomy overhead conditions when play finally began 90 minutes late due to the mop-up operation required to deal with a wet lead-up to the match.

Both sides took a knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, as they

had done in Southampton, before play began. Holder played around with his attack in the hour of play to lunch, replacing Shannon Gabriel and Kemar Roach after just three overs each with himself and Alzarri Joseph. That was after Gabriel had looked

uncomfortable in his run-up and out of rhythm. Roach, meanwhile, toiled hard for no reward once more.

Gabriel - player of the match at the Ageas Bowl where his nine wickets, including a five-for in England’s second innings, helped West Indies to victory and a 1-0 series lead returned with more control after the lunch break for another four-over spell. But he limped from the field with an apparent hamstring problem, returning in the evening session but without making any inroads in three more overs.

Roach, who is only seven away from claiming 200 Test scalps, remains wicketless for the series despite bowling with accuracy for the most part. It was not until Holder brought offspinner Roston Chase on in the last over before lunch that West Indies made a breakthrough with Chase trapping Burns lbw with a ball that beat the inside edge and rapped him on the pads bang in line with middle stump.

That signalled lunch but Chase struck with the next ball after lunch with one that spun a little as Crawley flicked low to Holder at leg slip. Crawley,

Regional PMs hail Holder’s leadership...

From page 23 you I have to look up and that’s exactly where you are carrying us – to victory, to the skies and I am so so so proud of you,” Mottley told Holder via Zoom on Starcom Radio’s Mason and Guest here Tuesday night.

“My very first act as Prime Minister of Barbados after being sworn in was to commit to the English match here in 2019 and I will never forget how you made me feel when you all beat England at Kensington Oval, and reinforced the wisdom of that decision to be able to take the chance and ensure that Test match was in Barbados.

“You are just carrying us to greater heights each time and your wisdom, your maturity and your discipline [is outstanding].

“For me, the highlight was just how long you took to make the winning runs [last Sunday].

That said to me the maturity is there to understand that unless you finish the mission, you have not achieved what is required of you and however pretty the game looks and however nice it looks, you have to finish the mission.

“And you’ve brought this sense of hope in us

again that this is a team that is now going to carry us on a pathway to victory because what you showed was a maturity and a discipline to keep the mission in focus.” Gonsalves, also chairman of the regional nation grouping, C A R I C O M , s a i d We s t Indies had shown a new resolve since their conquest over England in the Caribbean last year.

And even though they stumbled early in their run chase in the first Test at Southampton, Gonsalves said he was never in doubt they would emerge winners in the contest. “I rejoice in the victory.

I remember seeing Jason with his double hundred at that same game in Kensington and I saw the performance also in that same game by (Roston) Chase and (Shane) Dowrich,” Gonsalves recalled.

“And I’ll tell you the truth, even at 25 for three [on Sunday’s final day in Southampton], I didn’t think at all that this was another West Indies collapse. We had played with such discipline, we had played with such commitment that I felt it.

“There was something

about the purposefulness with which the players as a team went about their job that I felt absolutely confident that we were going to make the 200 runs. “It’s a good win in the same week we were remembering Sir Everton Weekes and while we bury him in sadness, had he been alive he would have been ecstatic at this remarkable triumph.”

Mitchell, the former chairman of CARICOM’s prime ministerial committee on cricket, said there was a new sense of commitment in the West Indies ranks which had been fortified by Holder’s leadership.

“It didn’t surprise me after I watched the first innings because what I saw was the discipline in approach by your bowling unit.

They never gave away anything … and they way you batted and how every person committed themselves to the task,” said Mitchell, also an ardent cricket fan.

“It made me realise this is a different team, not necessarily in talent – I’ve always believed the West Indies had talent – but I think the leadership and guidance, the commitment and unified effort of the team

is what impressed me the most.

“I’ve always said if we lost a game we must lose it with pride and commitment.

What I saw with that team, if you lose we should still be all proud because I see the commitment.” Holder, whose first innings career-best of six for 42 last weekend, undermined England and formed the basis for West Indies’ eventual four-wicket victory in the first Test, said his side were aware of the importance of the game to the region and valued the support of all stakeholders.

“It’s really fitting to see the love and appreciation shown throughout the Caribbean,” Holder told the show.

“I know what cricket does to this region and obviously the people of the Caribbean are obviously ecstatic over the first victory so we thank you dearly for your continued support.

“We hope we can start again on Thursday (second Test in Manchester) and go through the same processes, go through the same hard work and not get too far ahead of ourselves in terms of the outcome, but more or less focus in on the process and make sure we can keep smiles on people’s faces.”

whose second-innings 76 in Southampton cemented his place at the expense of Kent team-mate Joe Denly when someone had to make way for Root’s return from parental leave, was out for a first-ball duck.

Root survived the hattrick ball as he and Sibley built a 52-run partnership. But when Gabriel left the field Holder turned back to Joseph, who had accounted for three of Root’s previous four dismissals against West Indies going into the match.

Joseph made it four in the last five with a full, outswinging delivery which Root swiped to Holder at slip.

That left Sibley and Stokes in the middle and the pair set to work, Sibley keeping it low key while Stokes produced the odd flash of strokeplay when it was warranted, including the first six of the series when he smacked Chase back down the ground.

Sibley’s circumspection was familiar. After a duck in the first innings at the Ageas Bowl, he faced 164 deliveries in the second innings there before he was out moments after bringing up his fifty. This time, he stuck around upon reaching the milestone, grinding out his score off 253 deliveries so far.

He was dropped on 68 when, in Gabriel’s first over since returning to the field, he sent a thick outside edge straight to Holder at second slip, only for the ball to slide through Holder’s hands, hit

him in the stomach and fall to the ground.

Roach was imploring when he reviewed a not-out decision for lbw which would have dismissed Sibley for 82 but, with the ball striking high on the front pad, the batsman survived on the umpire’s original call.

Either Stokes, Sibley or both have been involved in each of the five highest partnerships of the series so far, all of them yielding in excess of 50 runs. Their union on Thursday took their team past England’s first-innings total at the Ageas Bowl of 204, which proved too low and was factor in the hosts’ defeat there.

If they are able to push on into the second day in Manchester, it will put less pressure on the England bowling attack, which has had an overhaul in the absence of Archer and the resting Mark Wood and James Anderson.

Stuart Broad returned after being left out of the first Test and was joined by Chris Woakes and Sam Curran, with Stokes taking up the fourth seamer’s position.

Their fresh legs could be key as England seek to thwart West Indies’ quest for a first Test series win in England for 32 years.

But, after their batting performance in Southampton fell short, England will be happy to delay the appearance of their bowlers, regardless of who they are, a little longer.

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Friday July 17, 2020

Kaieteur News

Anguilla find hope in the midst of a pandemic FIFA - It may seem weird to say, but the pandemic has actually worked to Anguilla’s advantage in some ways. The island, situated in the Leeward Islands in the Lesser Antilles, became one of the first Caribbean territories to complete their league this past weekend.

A full capacity crowd of 1,100 gathered at the Raymond E.G. Guishard to witness Roaring Lions defeat Doc’s United 3-0 to lift their eighth league title since the turn of the century, a record in the competition during that period. It was the first time ever that there was a full capacity crowd for a local final. Not only have the FA successfully completed the league, they are already moving on to the next competitions.

Thankfully, the island has been able to contain the spread of COVID-19, the record crowd a symbol of that success.

For Anguilla Football Association Technical Director Colin Johnson, he’s been buoyed by the sights of full crowds and he hopes that

it is the beginning of further growth and development in the game in general for the years to come.

“We have been playing football at this level for a number of years,” Johnson told FIFA.com. “We have been struggling for a while at the bottom of the FIFA Ranking. Our women’s teams have done relatively well.”

In fact, Anguilla are currently in last place in the FIFA/Coca-Cola Ranking, just three points behind San Marino. They achieved their best ranking of 189 in 1997.

The women’s side are 31st of 41 teams in the Concacaf Women’s National Team Ranking.

Football is not traditionally the island’s first sport of choice — boat racing, cricket and rugby have historically been ahead of priorities and interests — but the appetite for football is growing. One of the biggest football competitions on the island is a primary school tournament held in September and October.

Identifying a national coaching and playing style -

© Concacaf Anguilla participate in Concacaf and FIFA competitions at all levels from U-14 all the way to the senior national teams, both men and women. Like Montserrat, Anguilla started to invest in overseas-based players, mainly from the UK, over the

past couple of years to try to boost their chances of Concacaf Nations League success. However, the longterm emphasis will now be on building the grassroots and youth programmes.

“Next week we will start working on building a national coaching philosophy,” Johnson said. “We want all of our teams playing the same style.”

Thanks to FIFA funding Anguilla are expanding their grassroots programmes and leagues. These will form the foundation to teach the new national coaching and playing style, for both the men’s and women’s teams, with the aim of improving overall performances.

“We want to possess the ball a little bit more, to be more attacking and we want to be

more aggressive on the ball.”

Concacaf Nations League benefit - “In the past we just did not have enough practise,” said Johnson. “We would go in to World Cup qualifying and play a team like El Salvador with very few matches under our belt.

But the Concacaf Nations League gives us more opportunities to play, and even in between those, you play friendly matches. The more you play, the better you will get.”

The biggest benefit about the Nations League for Anguilla is that it has brought football back to the island.

“Anguilla was hosted more Nations League matches than anyone else. Within the last ten years we didn’t have a tournament played here. The crowds are back. We’ve never

had bigger crowds here. The interest in football has grown tremendously.”

What are the biggest hopes and ambitions for the programme over the next few years? “I would love to see the quality of our football improve and be sustained over the next five to ten years so we can improve our performance on the global stage and our ranking, both male and female,” Johnson said.

“It’s a very exciting time for us because I’ve been around football in Anguilla for a long time and even on Sunday I was shocked and pleasantly surprised. I feel good about the future of our football.” This article is part of ‘The Global Game’ series that looks at football away from the spotlight.

72 NFL players test positive for COVID-19, players’ union says Reuters - With training camps set to open in less than two weeks, 72 National Football League players had tested positive for COVID19 as of July 10, according to the players’ association. It was not immediately clear who the players were or which teams they play for.

The NFL plans to move forward with its regular season kickoff on Sept. 10, with several clubs anticipating reduced capacity - or no fans at all - at stadiums on game days to allow for social distancing, as the league finds a path forward amid the coronavirus outbreak.

With players set to report to training camps July 28, ESPN reported that the NFL and the players’ association (NFLPA) have been negotiating COVID-19 protocols, including how to classify a player’s potential positive coronavirus diagnosis.

The NFLPA on Thursday (yesterday) also included data on the concentration of coronavirus in each team’s market, finding that the Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals and Jacksonville Jaguars’ metropolitan areas led in the 14-day average of daily cases of COVID19 per 100,000 people.

New cases of COVID-19 are surging in

File Photo: The NFL logo is pictured at an event in the Manhattan borough of New York City, New York, U.S., November 30, 2017. REUTERS/Carlo Allegri several U.S. states, with Florida on Thursday (yesterday) announcing 13,965 new cases and 156 deaths - its largest one-day increase in deaths from the novel coronavirus since the pandemic began.

Kaieteur News

Friday July 17, 2020

PAGE 25

Regional PMs hail SHC defender Paramanand ‘Andy’ Dindial recovered and rearing to go Holder’s leadership,

T

wenty-two yearold Saints Hockey Club (SHC) left-back Paramanand ‘Andy’ Dindial, who has been a member of the club for eight years; since its formation in 2012, is looking to get back on the pitch after missing out on a few tournaments due to an appendix surgery.

The one-time, Diamond Mineral Water International Hockey Festival winner noted that after being on the sidelines for six months (October 2019- March 2020) he was really looking forward to having the stick in his hand but the covid-19 pandemic has put sport on the back foot.

What made the layoff even worse for Dindial was the fact that he took a year off to focus on his final year at the University of Guyana and in his first month, before the surgery, he helped Saints to first place in the Guyana Hockey Board Outdoor Second Division League but the team fell to third by the

end of that competition.

Yesterday, the National Covid-19 task force announced that Guyana will enter into phase three of the reopening process from today with the curfew being relaxed from 18:00hrs to 20:00hrs. And, while some sport persons may look at that as an early sign for the recommencement of competition, Dindial disagrees.

The former national youth player who represented the Golden Arrowhead in the 2016 Pan Am tourney in Canada, explained, “The numbers are continuing to climb and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down for now and you can see gatherings still on the seawall and other wellknown hangout spots.”

Despite his hunger to get on the field and play, he posited that, “Unless more serious measures are taken that will decrease the infection rate, only then should the curfew be relaxed.” (Calvin Chapman)

new WI commitment

FLASHBACK: Prime Minister Mia Mottley congratulates West Indies captain Jason Holder immediately following the side’s win over England in the first Test at Kensington Oval last year.

Andy Dindial proudly displays the DMW Hockey Festival Championship trophy he won with Hikers.

Bridgetown, Barbados, CMC – Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley has praised West Indies Test captain Jason Holder ’s “wisdom, maturity and discipline”, one of three sitting political leaders hailing the all-rounder’s leadership of the Caribbean side and celebrating last weekend’s success in the first Test against England.

Mottley, the country’s first ever woman prime m i n i s t e r, j o i n e d w i t h Grenadian counterpart Dr Keith Mitchell and St Vincent and the Grenadines leader, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, in underscoring the importance of the victory and lauding Holder for his role in the side’s recent success. “Every time I hug (Continued on page 21)

Roston Chase celebrates the wicket of Rory Burns © Getty Images

rt

Spo

Dom Sibley, Ben Stokes steel England after early drama

Dom Sibley and Ben Stokes ground out a 100-run stand Pool via Getty Images

SHC defender Paramanand ‘Andy’ Jofra Archer: Dindial recovered and rearing to go Ashley Giles

says protocol breach could have been ‘disaster’

Dindial (right) in action against Puerto Rico at the 2016 Pan Am Youth Games in Canada.

Anguilla find hope in the midst of a pandemic

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