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Sunday July 25, 2021
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
The Troubles Over the past few months, Guyanese have been treated to glimpses of something that has serious implications for this country going forward – the disintegration of the People’s National Congress. The first indicator went relatively unnoticed, the resignation of party stalwart and Central Executive Committee (CEC), Basil Blackman, citing the absence of consultations in the party’s decision-making in October last year. Things reached to a crescendo recently however with the resignation of some bright, primarily younger members of the CEC, expanding on Blackman’s critique in their own exit notes, and strident pushback against his macabre theatre of introducing two paper parties into APNU with consultation from the PNC Executive (see ‘Granger defends move to unilaterally accept new parties into APNU’, on page three of today’s paper). Certain ironies cannot be lost on the anti-Granger, dissident faction, the clearest of which is that the same nonconsultative, dictatorial, and cognitively dissonant behaviour Granger engaged in as President, and in which they were all complicit, he is now subjecting them to as party leader. This includes of course the deliberate postponement of constitutionally due internal elections for a change of leadership. Betting men would not be faulted for placing good money on the odds that even when those long-awaited elections are inevitably held, they will be marked by more egregious and unapologetic rigging than what was attempted for national and regional elections last year. A more subtle, but telling, irony of course is that there is a marked fear by the dissidents when it comes to mounting a public challenge to the Brigadier-General’s leadership – while there has been a clear imperative to ensure that the hitherto silent swell of internal dissidence makes it into the larger public domain, there is an equally clear hesitance at public association with it, not unsurprising considering the machinery of slander and intimidation that faced those opposed to Granger’s failed bid to hold on to power last year, including, for example, the attacks leveled against the GECOM Chair. For his part, the Granger is insistent on hiding from the public and the press and his constituents, as he has done for the past year, emerging only to speak to a single in-house interviewer, donning the tattered and unconvincing mask of a saintly monarch quietly doing God’s work from his hideout at Pearl, a baffled king composing Hallelujah, uncomprehending of the plots to betray and overthrow him. One might be tempted to frame the supposedly befuddled former President in quixotic terms, except it would be a charmless, cowardly version of the classic Cervantes character, not so much tilting at windmills, but pretending not to see the real giants that are either departing his party in disgust at his “visionless”, “backward”, “dictatorial” leadership (former executives like Blackman, Brian Smith, Thandi McAllister, and Shawn Hopkinson) or those like Aubrey Norton, Dr. Richard Van West-Charles, and Party Chair, Volda Lawrence all of whom have either made clear that they supported a recent letter excoriating his leadership or that they were vehemently opposed to a second letter, signed by a handful of junior members only, supporting him. Which brings us to Granger’s supposed second-incharge, Leader of the Parliamentary Opposition, Joseph Harmon, who has seemed since August of last year to be on a singular campaign to prove himself incapable of effectively opposing or leading. Starting off with his visit, along with Granger, to the West Coast of Berbice in the wake of the murder of the Henry cousins, resulting in an escalation of violence, the former Minister of State has continued to jettison whatever speck of integrity that might have inadvertently remained in the wake of the attempt to steal the elections last year. For example, earlier this year, he claimed outright that the government had a clandestine cash grant operation in which it had given out $25 million dollars to 50 big businesses – not only did he go silent when challenged by the administration to provide proof of this massive movement of funds but the issue has not been brought up in Parliament where, if his claims were true, he would have been able to force an answer from government. And then of course there has been his anti-vaxxing campaign, and his weak, strange and vacillating
Domestic Dictator, International Lapdog, the real third world ugly Dear Editor, I foresee great anger in the voice of history. One day that anger will be directed at all Guyanese; and it will be known that History is angered more by the weaknesses of a people than it is by the tyranny and savagery of their Colonial Bullies. In thunder, that voice will describe how inaction has weakened its pages and lend boredom to readers. In my pages you are nothing! nothing! because when I cried out for hunger, you did not feed me. Great leaders lead from within. They live among, listen to, and feel their people. They know they are just the designated drivers. They must take their people where they need to be. Leadership is built on a foundation of TRUST and INTEGRITY, and
trust and integrity feeds on transparency. When transparency becomes the main talking point of the opposition it is time for the Leader to get uncomfortable. A Promise made during a National Election Campaign is a Solemn Pledge, that translates to an obligation upon reaching the ears of the population and returns to the Candidate as an undying commitment. Sir Winston Churchill said “A politician must have the ability to foretell what will happen in the next week, the next month and the next year. He must also have the ability to EXPLAIN why it did not happen”. Theodore Roosevelt said “Do what you can, where you are with what you have”, and J.F. Kennedy said “A country can never
policy of claiming that the Irfaan Ali administration was illegally installed by Western powers, even as he goes cap in hand to representatives of those same powers pleading a case that the “installed regime” is not cooperating with him and recognizing his constitutional powers as Leader of the Opposition. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Harmon has studiously avoided adding his voice to the current conflict over Granger’s governance. On the one hand, if he remains with the sinking leadership, his political career would be completely over if former President is ousted, the most likely scenario. On the
move forward unless there are men who can think of things that was never”. If the words of these great leaders cannot tell you the need for Intuition, Creativity and Vision in Leadership then, may god help you. In a letter to Lebanese Parliamentarians in 1925, during the last days of the Ottoman (Turkish) Empire and at a time when New Frontiers were created, Kahlil Gibran wrote, “Are you a Politician asking what your country can do for you or a Zealous one asking what you can do for your country. If you are the first you are a parasite, if you are the second you are an oasis in the desert”. These words written thirty six years before JFK’s inaugural address should be written on the heart of anyone who seek political power. Here in Guyana, a President grows wings with
an election victory. He begins to fly and like birds he cannot hold back. He messes regardless of who is below. He is no longer among you. He is now deaf to all cries. He moves by invitation and speaks to his subjects by MAPPED interviews. He has absolute power. He stands above the Judiciary and the legislature. He is no longer a designated driver. This driver takes you where ever he sees fit. Here are a few simple facts that sums up MY Country. When Guyana became independent Singapore’s population was 1.9 mln. Fifty years later Singapore has a population of 5.5 mln. Throughout fifty years of independence Guyana’s population remained at 750,000. Yes a negative population growth. Neighbouring Brazil had a (Continued on page 5)
other, if he leaves the Granger camp, he has been so tainted with the stain of irrationality and dictatorship, there will likely be no place for him in whatever new emerges. Someone once said that politics, much like nature, abhors a vacuum, and there are several vacuums – of integrity, of competence, of courage, of cognitive ability – currently afflicting Congress Place under the increasingly besieged leadership of David Granger, a situation he might refer to, with trademark Afro-Saxon panache, as The Troubles. What fills that vacuum can spell trouble not only for the PNC but for Guyana as a whole.
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Kaieteur News
Sunday July 25, 2021
Jagdeo leads with tenacity and heroism Selection of Dear Editor, forever maintained. reach all of the people and I government under the The Peoples Progressive Successively, the central will go on the political platform leadership of His Excellency, dominant colour Party / Civic (PPP/C) will soon executive of the PPP/C voted and sell your candidacy”, and President Dr. Mohamed one year of being in and Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali how witty, skillful and Irfaan Ali, can distribute cash should be explained celebrate office. One cannot help but was elected leader with an successful he did this. monies and vouchers to every Dear Editor, The politicisation of our national colours has now gone all the way to Tokyo. From painting buildings, including state buildings and other edifices in one party’s colours, to uniforms for the Olympians, in which one
party’s colour dominates. The selection of the dominant colour, apparent dropping of another dominant colour and design of the uniform should be properly explained. Good Lord, what next? Shamshun Mohamed
...Domestic Dictator, International Lapdog, the From page 4 population of 89 mln when we gained (Political) independence. Brazil’s population now stands at 210 mln ........In fifty years of self rule not one Government Minister was ever found guilty of wrong doing........ After fifty years of self rule we still go around the world looking for Best Practices......... Guyanese leaders do not understand that first world Businesses and Leaders do not come to a third world Country to party. They come to throw you a party, get you drunk, and take all you have......Contracts between the Guyana Government and foreign entities are not for public s c r u t i n y. . . . . . . G u y a n a i s among a group of Caribbean nations still fighting for reparation settlement from the British Government. Most likely a few centuries from today we will be fighting the N a t i ons and Companies presently plundering our wealth. I cannot fathom what is wrong with us; that we will have our plates full and give it to others, then fight for the crumbs that fall from those plates. Is it not true that
Technology is readily available? Was Marley right when he implied that we are still slaves? Tell me what leader will allow his Finance Minister to refer to his people as poor during a Budget presentation, just a few months after taking a fifty percent salary increase for himself and his Cabinet W I T H O U T CONSULTATION. Just imagine that Finance Minister turning back and stabbing those poor subjects with a fourteen percent tax on Water, Electricity and Private Education. When I see water I see life. When I see Electricity I see power and production and growth and development and when I hear about Private Education I see sacrifice and competition and progress and a thirst for growth and a drive to get ahead. I see all that is essentially human. My government said, you must not see. Deep within me there is a loud silence. Even in my deepest sleep that loudness will linger, but I will not tell my whole story until I find out why black donkeys still find fascination in white wash fences. Ray Daggers
reflect on the journey that culminated in this victory. It all started when the PPP/C party lost the March 2015 general and regional elections. Losing an election is never something easy and we are well aware how devastating that was not only for the party comrades but the committed supporters. The leadership quickly garnered their equilibrium and formulated a strategy to regain power. The master politician, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, stepped forward. He was successfully voted as leader and general secretary of the PPP/C at the congress held in Essequibo. He immediately reformed the party and started on the campaign trail with that successful weekly press conference. He did that with great tenacity and heroism. He became even more popular within the party and the public at large. Dr. Jagdeo had the courage to face problems squarely and to remove viruses that erode the party’s health. He kept strengthening the party’s ability to lead politically, to guide through theory, to organize the people and to inspire and promote a fresh group of leaders. Thus, ensuring relevance, vitality and strong ability are
eighty percent majority. Issues which arise were settled amicably. Then came the NoConfidence motion and elections were delayed because of various mathematical interpretations by disgraced judges. However, the final court ensured that justice prevailed. A new chairman was appointed to GECOM and a date was set for Guyana’s long awaited national and regional elections. Another hurdle had to be settled and that is where we see the mastery of Dr. Jagdeo. Party loyalists, opinionist and opposition politicians were brutal and vile in their attacks on Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. Some even predicted that the government of that time would emerge victorious at the 2nd March, 2020 elections. The general secretary told Dr. Ali, “You must travel around the entire country and
Within a month of campaigning, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo had everything locked, the victory was in the bag, another five months of delays but the rule of law prevailed. Today, His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali is championing the worries and concerns of all Guyanese locally and abroad. Everyone within the Central Executive of the PPP/C and the populace now realise that the choice for the party’s leadership is absolutely correct. The bureaucracy in the government has dissolved, the life and livelihoods of our people are improving and everyone can see a bright future. Duty and Tax on numerous items were removed and not a cent from the revenue from the sale of our oil was used, but the
household within the past year. In addition, thousands of our Guyanese’s young professionals, brothers and sisters have secured a house lot or a complete home from this administration as the national infrastructure is being revolutionized. As I reflect on the maestro, I wish to advise my long standing friend Joe Harmon to be a responsible opposition leader know that elections in Guyana are very close. Twenty-eight seats are guaranteed between the two majority political parties. The nine seats are what either has to work assiduously for. Do as your predecessor did and you will be better off. Remember losing an election is not at all easy and five years will elapse quickly. Respectfully, Nazar Mohamed
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Sunday July 25, 2021
Kaieteur News
Ogle Airport Inc. unlawfully imposing 10% increases onto EFCIA’s lease holders Dear Editor, Though Ogle Airport Inc.’s (OAI) Public Relations would toss aside serious matters raised by stakeholders as mere storm in a teapot in its quest to pull a veil over the government’s eyes, nothing can be further from the truth. In early 2018, unknown to key stakeholders, OAI went ahead and renewed the Eugene F. Correia International Airport’s Land Lease with the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC), seven years in advance to its expiry date. The
First Term Renewal of the Airport Land Lease is viewed as being done unlawfully, prematurely, clandestinely and out of fear that the imminent change in Government would disapprove of OAI managing the affairs of the airport, given that the present government, while in opposition then, was never in agreement with OAI’s decision to change the airport’s name, and leasing lands to oil and gas companies for non-aviation related activities at the airport. However, OAI, being aware of the political
dynamics in motion at the time, took advantage of its close connections with the coalition-led Government to intentionally disrupt and interfere in the duration of the natural life of the 2001 Land Lease Agreement between itself and the government for the benefit of securing its interest and being in control of the airport for the next 50 years. According to Article Two of the 2001 Master Lease, the correct and lawful thing to do when the time for renewal would have arrived was for OAI to apply to the subject minister 180 days in advance to the expiry of the airport Lease thus signalling
The DPP’s Office appears to have failed to deliver on vital responsibilities Dear Editor, There seems to be a drastic problem within the Office of The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). From 6th October, 2020 to now, there have been no less than thirteen (13) cases of serious offences which have been dismissed by various Courts because of No Case Submissions. These included 10 murder cases involving 14 accused, one case of armed robbery involving three persons accused of attempting to rob the Republic Bank on Water St., one case of threatening to bomb the University of Guyana, and one case of causing death by dangerous driving. In each of these instances, the case was dismissed or discharged because the defence said they had no case to defend as the prosecutors had failed to produce enough evidence against the defendants. This means that the DPP’s Office failed to produce enough evidence for the cases
against the defendants to warrant the continuance of the trial, with the judges or magistrates agreeing to the No Case Submissions presented. Why is the DPP’s Office wasting valuable resources by taking to trial these cases which are lacking sufficient evidence? Prosecutors working in that Office are highly trained lawyers who represent the State in seeking justice. However, it is unjust for persons to be: arrested, charged, and in many cases remanded to prison (for many years), only to be freed because of a No Case Submission. The website for the DPP’s Office states that while it does not conduct investigations into criminal offences, it provides legal advice to the various law enforcement agencies. The website continues: “We give personal and individualized attention to each police file, sifting through thousands of statements annually because
each case is important to us as it is to you. We are committed to: hard work, service, justice, transparency and integrity. We work to ensure that justice is done in each case.” ( https:// www.dpp.gy/) Therefore, the DPP’s Office should be advising the law enforcement agencies, that where necessary, they need to have stronger evidence provided, before the accused can be brought to Court. It makes no sense going to Court to prosecute an accused with a weak case. Thirteen cases of serious criminal offences within a year, being thrown out of Court for a lack of evidence, is a serious indictment of the DPP’s Office. It would appear that the DPP’s Office has not been providing excellent legal advice to the law enforcement agencies and in so doing, damaging Guyana’s legal system. Regards, Jonathan Yearwood
Honouring fallen CARICOM leaders a must Dear Editor, On the day of his funeral came the claim that the late Haitian President is unworthy of our country’s commendation. This is
uncalled for. Whether right or wrong, the late president was a Caribbean man, a member of our Caricom nations. It would be a huge slight were a member state to
take an anti-stand. I do believe honouring the fallen leader of our tiny group of nations is proper and appropriate and should not be deprecated. Shamshun Mohamed
its intentions to continue in its role as the airport operator. Now, depending on the satisfactory outcome of a performance review of OAI’s performance, which is required to be carried out by the Airport Review Panel, only then can the subject minister be guided to grant approval for OAI to continue and the airport lease to be renewed. The established legal process for the Airport Lease renewal was breached because there is no Airport Review Panel in existence to carry out such mandatory performance review and to provide guidance to the former subject minister. Therefore, how can the subject minister give the approval for OAI to continue as the airport operator and get the GLSC to renew the Airport Lease for another 50 years, seven years ahead of its expiry? To add insult to injury, three years subsequent to the Airport’s Lease renewal, OAI
has now unlawfully increased its sublease fees by 10 percent, masking the increase as a GLSC fees increase, which it wants lease holders to bear. How can this ever be fair; and why do operators now have to bear a cost the airport incurs, when OAI is not an NGO, but a profitmaking organisation? In early 2019, OAI tried a similar stunt when it was moving ahead to unlawfully increase all of its fees by 10 percent, disguising the increase by calling it ‘security fees’. We intervened and OAI aborted its plan. OAI has a habit of levying exorbitant fees onto lease holders over the years, in that the cost to construct vital infrastructure at the airport such as taxiways, drainages and access roads cost obligations of OAI, is borne solely by the lease holders as upfront costs or ‘infrastructure fees’ paid to OAI; and then OAI converts those infrastructure into its own assets, which it then
turns around and charges the lease holders’ user and maintenance fees to use those same assets. In other words, one pays to build his own house from scratch only for another person to gain possession of it and then charges the real owner a high rent to live in it. How can this ever be fair? I am calling on the subject minister to immediately look into the affairs, breaches, unlawful imposition of fees upon lease holders and the operations of OAI. Think about the potential adverse impact airport fees increases can have on domestic ticket prices. Do not be blinded by the facade of a guided tour of the Eugene F. Correia International Airport by both Ministers of Public Works facilitated by OAI immediately after a change in Government. Yours faithfully, Capt. A. Mazahar Ally Managing Director - Air Services Ltd, AMSL & GRSI
Savage Guyanese ironies Dear Editor, It is savagely ironic that in today’s Guyana, there are imperious political leaders, who swagger arrogantly, yet who are so pathetically insecure that they are sharply ruffled by anything and anyone that stands against their corruptions, distortions. We had LFS Burnham; today, we have his political spawns, even better successors, in the uppermost reaches of the PPP government. Despite claims to complete confidence and what amounts to unchallenged control, PPP leaders provide powerful evidence of how shaky their confidence is, their psychological frailness, their unfounded paranoias. They work hard to overpower any whiff of disagreement, any found objectionable. It was my special blessing to live earlier years in the era of Burnham; a time and season strong on despotism. A man part urbane Dr. Jekyll, and part fiendish Pol Pot; he made himself and society go to pot. They say like father, so are political sons, and that is who we have today, only more ominous and absolute in meanness of spirit. That, too, is my rare gift, to return here and spend my later years under the continuing intervals of those Burnham gave birth to, which is the first savage irony. It is the greatest of Guyanese ironies, that the man feared and reviled is reincarnated today in more feared and sinister shape in the current crop of PPP leaders. From beneath the shade of my vine and fig tree, I see the parallels of both a
past master of darkness and the present leaders of Guyana’s Machiavellian caprices. I remember one American President, Thomas Jefferson, describing another, Andrew Jackson, as “a dangerous man” so uncontrolled that “he would choke with rage.” We have such leaders today, who are incomparably worse than Burnham. Despite such leadership absolutisms, I marvel at the irony, that such insecurity resides in the heart of PPP leaders that any one insignificant citizen can cause upheavals in the breast; one media revelation, too. Such timidity fills them, that one letter, one column, one stance, one phrase could provoke sharp agitations and anxieties: what if it spreads? There is such fright controlling the unsteady uncrowned heads in Guyana’s democracy that not one honest objection from one patriotic or conscientious citizen can be tolerated, received thoughtfully. What have our political leaders done, especially in today’s government that they fear so much? What is planned that they rage at any shadow, any dissenting whisper? Where is reception for contrarian views? No matter how unpalatable, once lacking slanderous or malice, why do they dismiss such pistons in democracy’s engine? What monstrous villainy now settles supremely unchallenged here in Guyana? We live with such. I do, but on own terms.
Another savaging irony is that there were loud cries of ‘free and fair’ and now there is fear over any articulations of that same freeness, the responsible expressions of liberty inseparable from democracy. Indeed, the sacred obligation to do so, and without shrinking. Though those in power will have nothing of such, they must manage somehow with what comes. From that there can be neither retreating nor faltering. Let it be. Some cannot be Japanese stone monkeys; that has its own people. It is still more savagely ironic that, with crime rampant, citizens considered a problem by PPP leaders, and traitorous (racially, politically) are compelled to look over their shoulder. It is not for regular rogues, but for the omnipotent political scoundrels who reign from government heights. Sir Thomas More had that fateful experience with his tyrant, Henry VIII; while Archbishop Becket met his in a cathedral of all places. Such poisons exemplify our leaders here, that they will brook no different evaluation, no contradicting conclusion. They should regroup and reengineer, since some citizens are unchanging. When leadership overreactions disclose oversensitive nerves, the thinking is: for what? Coming close to hidden, forbidden truths? Editor, whatever the case may be, there remains those Guyanese who will persevere. Sincerely, GHK Lall
T N U L B . . . T B N U T L N B T . U . L . L T B . . N . U N U T L N B . U T . . L N N U T B . U . N L U BL BLUNT. B . . T . T T N N U . U L . . L B . T B . . . . N . T U T N N T U N U L L U B . L B . . . . B . T . . T . N N T U N L LU U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . . U . N L T U B . N L . . U B . T L . . N B T . . U . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B . T . U . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . B . UN .BLUNT. L . . B T . . . N T U N L . . U B T . L . B . UN .BLUNT. L . . B T . . . N T U N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L B T . U . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . . . LU ...BLUN B T . . . N T U N L U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T . U B . . N L T U B . N L . . U B T . L . . N B T . U . . N L T BB T...BLU U N L U B . L . . B . T . . N N T T L U U N L L U B U T...BLU B L . . N . B . T . . N T U N N N U L U U B L . BL TLUNT.. UNT...B BL Sunday July 25, 2021
Kaieteur News
It is said that a fool and his money will soon part company.
From every indication, Guyana is in the company of the worst fools ever, since we are giving away our money (that we haven’t even seen as yet) hand over fist to oil companies, primarily Exxon.
We say this, because we are paying more than four and a half times what Suriname and Trinidad are paying for supply boats for our oil sector. They pay US$12,000 a day, but here we pay US$55,000 a day. Surely, we aren’t that rich that we can give away money blindly like that? And surely, we can’t be so stupid to think that this kind of skullduggery mean nothing to us, Guyanese?
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Sunday July 25, 2021
Struggling greens vendors hope for a better tomorrow By Kellisha Hackett
T
he general e c o n o m i c slowdown since the onset of COVID-19 in Guyana, has seen farmers faced with a major loss in crops, a problem that has now been compounded by heavy rainfall and flooding. This in turn has left the greens vendors at the La Penitence, Bourda and Stabroek markets, faced with a two-pronged challenge that has been severely hurting their livelihoods.
Kaieteur News last week interviewed several vendors at the various markets who are facing a difficult time in making a profit. According to vendors, the buying price of produce such as okra, boulanger (eggplant), pak choy, pepper, bora, eddo leaf, tomatoes, has increased significantly. According to one vendor at Bourda Market, the cost of living is already expensive, and she is struggling to make a profit at current prices. “The same price I purchase the goods for, the same price I have to sell it
for, because customers are not willing to pay a high price,” the woman told Kaieteur News. Moreover, she indicated that even so, she still has to pay to use the space that she sells from, at the same cost to the market officials responsible for vending. A vendor who makes her daily bread at the Bissoondar Rameherita stall, located in the La Penitence Market, said that prices seem to be rising day by day. Boulanger which was only $2,500 a bag wholesale before the flooding is $15,000 a bag
A greens stall at the La Penitence Market.
currently; pak choy is now $8,000 for 100 when previously it was being sold for $2,500 to $4,000
wholesale price. She said that even pepper has seen an increase to $1,000 to $1,200 a pound and when it was
being sold at six to seven hundred dollars. In addition, cabbage which was $100 to (Continued on page 55)
Sunday July 25, 2021
Kaieteur News
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Sunday July 25, 2021
Kaieteur News
Man found dead in truck with wound to head
A
truck driver was yesterday discovered dead in his vehicle at the side of the road early yesterday morning, with a wound to his head. According to a police report, Laurel Samaroo, 31, of Tuschen New Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, uplifted a fuel tanker from Parika, East Bank Essequibo and proceeded to his home at Tu s c h e n , E a s t B a n k Essequibo at 21:00. However, the man never returned home. The truck was later observed at about 02:00hrs,
parked on the road by the owner, a businessman of Parika, East Bank Essequibo. The owner upon checking opened the driver’s side door, where he observed the victim lying in the vehicle’s front seat and reportedly thought he was sleeping. The man then attempted to wake the man but that proved futile. It was at this moment that the man realized that Samaroo might be dead and immediately contacted the Leonora Police Station and the police were summoned to the scene.
On arrival, detectives examined the body for marks of violence and reportedly found what appeared to be a wound to the right side of the victim’s head. Further checks were made around the area and a black haversack, wallet and keys belonging to the victim were found behind a stall in the market area. The body was then subsequently taken to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, and later to the Ezekiel Funeral Home where it is currently awaiting a post mortem examination. Investigations are ongoing.
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Kaieteur News
Sunday July 25, 2021
Sunday July 25, 2021
Dear Reader, in light of the economic impact caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, our publisher, with you in mind, has taken the decision to extend our weekly review of some of our major stories in their entirety.
that the analysis does not include any economic benefits from increased job creation both directly from the construction and operation of the project and indirectly from the greater economic activity associated with the pipeline. According to the Report, “while the pipeline will clearly bring some job creation benefits, this value was not quantified for this analysis.” Energy Narrative said, “this economic cost-benefit analysis (CBA) finds that the offshore natural gas pipeline has an aggregate net present value (NPV) of approximately US$782 million and an economic rate of return of 30 percent under the project’s Base Case assumptions…This indicates that the offshore natural gas pipeline is economically viable.” It noted too that a sensitivity analysis was performed to estimate how changes in key variables would impact the offshore natural gas pipeline’s economic feasibility. Three independent variables were included in the sensitivity analysis: the volume of Natural gas shipped by the pipeline, the cost to produce the Natural gas and build and operate the pipeline, and the price of HFO that the Natural gas will displace. These variables were selected based on the likelihood that they could change and their potential to have a material impact on the offshore natural gas pipeline’s economic feasibility, according to the study. This publication had previously reported that the gas to be transported from the Liza Destiny by way of a gas pipeline after which the gas would be sold to a third party.
SUNDAY EXXONMOBIL EYES US BILLIONS IN RETURNS ON GAS PIPELINE ALONE …STUDY PROJECTS PROFITS UP TO 52% OF INVESTMENT FROM SELLING GAS Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL)—ExxonMobil Guyana—in its Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with the Guyana Government is to develop a plan for each oil field it is looking to develop that would include a feasibility study for the use of any associated gas discovered. According to a study undertaken by Energy Narrative and commissioned by the Guyana Government and the Inter-American Development Bank, the operator, ExxonMobil Guyana, stands to earn billions of US dollars with returns as high as 52 percent on the investment. The information is documented in the Energy Narrative Report, which notes that the highest economic return under the proposed 50 million cubic feet of Natural gas per day and in a high oil price scenario, returns could be had to the tune of nearly US$2.8 billion in net present value and a 52 percent economic rate of return. If Natural gas supply were increased to the theoretical 145 million cubic feet per day case, the offshore natural gas pipeline would have an economic net present value of just over US$3 billion and an economic rate of return of 41 percent, according to the study. The report said too, “under the worst case combination of both high project costs and a low oil price outlook, the project is marginally feasible, showing a US$22 million economic gain over 20 years and an economic rate of return of 11 percent—just above the 10 percent hurdle rate. According to the report, the offshore natural gas pipeline’s economic feasibility was determined by comparing the economic costs of building and operating the infrastructure to produce, prepare, and transport the Natural gas to shore with the economic benefits that the
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MANGANESE WORKERS WILL BE IN DANGER OF SERIOUS NEUROLOGICAL ILLNESSES – COMPANY’S EIA REPORT Natural gas will bring. It noted that the upstream Natural gas production and offshore pipeline’s economic costs include the capital cost of the additional equipment required to produce the Natural gas and the capital cost to build the pipeline, the annual cost to produce the Natural gas and operate the pipeline, and any environmental costs associated with the pipeline’s operations. According to the report, the offshore pipeline’s economic benefits include the avoided costs that would have been incurred if the
offshore natural gas pipeline had not been built. It said too that the Natural gas delivered by the offshore pipeline would primarily replace heavy fuel oil (HFO) that is currently being imported for electricity generation. As such, “the economic benefits from building the offshore natural gas pipeline therefore include the avoided cost of importing HFO and the avoided economic cost of carbon dioxide (CO‚ ) emissions that would result from burning the HFO for electricity generation.” The report did caution
Manganese—it is one of the world’s most crucial elements, particularly in the manufacturing industry. It is used in making batteries, alloys, pigments, fertilizer, bricks, glass, and even textiles. However, when it comes to making steel, manganese is an irreplaceable building block hence it is vital to the world’s leading producers of steels, namely in the USA and China. But what is hardly given the same attention or regard are the detrimental effects the extraction and production of this resource can have on the
health of workers. At least, this much was highlighted in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of Guyana Manganese Incorporated (GMI), a company that was created in 2016 as a subsidiary of the Bosai Minerals Group of the People’s Republic of China. GMI recently submitted an EIA to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for permission to invest in the resuscitation of manganese mining and processing in Matthew’s Ridge following which it will export its production from Port Kaituma to Trinidad and Tobago. The EIA, which is 734 pages, notes that the investment will focus on the historic, previously mined sites located in Matthew’s Ridge. With respect to the effects on health, GMI acknowledged that workers would be exposed to high concentrations of manganese. It noted however that if this occurs over a “prolonged period”, workers would be “at risk of serious neurological illnesses.” While it did not expound on the illnesses, Kaieteur News via independent research found that inhaled manganese is often transported directly to the brain before it is metabolised by the liver. The symptoms of manganese toxicity may appear slowly over months and years. Furthermore, manganese toxicity can result in a permanent neurological disorder known as manganism with symptoms that include tremors, difficulty walking, and facial muscle spasms. These symptoms are often preceded by other lesser symptoms, including irritability, aggressiveness, and hallucinations. Some studies suggest that manganese inhalation can also result in adverse cognitive effects, including difficulty with concentration and memory problems. This news agency also found that acute or intermediate exposure to excess manganese also affects the respiratory system. In fact, inhalation exposure to high concentrations of manganese dusts (specifically manganese dioxide [MnO2] and manganese tetroxide [Mn3O4]) can cause an inflammatory response in the lung, which, over time, can result in impaired lung function. (See link for more details: https:// w w w. a t s d r. c d c . g o v / toxprofiles/tp151-c2.pdf) As a measure of mitigation, GIM in its report noted that, “occupational exposure to inhaled manganese dust or particles
can be managed if appropriate Personal Protective equipment (PPEs) is used by vulnerable workers.” If appropriate PPE is utilised, GMI said, “this potential impact will be of moderate significance and likely to occur during the project lifetime. As a result, occupational exposure to manganese dust is Medium Risks of the project.” ROLE OF MANGANESE MINING According to GMI’s report, manganese mining has historically played a crucial role in the development of Guyana’s North West District in Region One. In fact, manganese occurrences were first observed in Matthew’s Ridge, Arakaka and Pipiani in 1937 and by 1957, Manganese Mines Management Limited commenced establishing the facilities and infrastructure required to mine and export manganese ore. Mines facilities included mine buildings, processing plant at Matthew’s Ridge and some relics of which remain standing at present. GMI noted that the company also transformed public transportation infrastructure by construction of a 48-kilometre (30-mile) railway with adjacent roadway for the transport of ore from Matthew’s Ridge to Port Kaituma; built a Bailey bridge over the Barima River at Eclipse Falls and dredged the Kaituma Canal, the Mora Passage and sections of the Barima River. Ancillary shipping infrastructure was also established at Port Kaituma. Kaieteur News understands from the report that mining commenced in 1961, however, by 1968, a precipitous fall in the price of manganese caused operations to cease. Over the eight-year operational period, a total of 1.7 million tonnes of manganese ore was exported. Operations never resumed although multiple attempts were made by several different investors in the 1980s as well as in 2008 and 2011. GMI is hoping to resuscitate the operations and begin shipment to Trinidad and Tobago as soon as possible. It is already in the construction phase of its plans. GMI’S HISTORY Kaieteur News understands that GMI was registered in Guyana on November 17, 2016. Chongqing BMG of Yuzhong District, Chongqing, China, is the controlling shareholder. Starting from small industrial minerals undertakings in Nanchuan, China, BMG was established in July 2003, and (Continued on page 26)
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From page 25 has grown into a large-scale manufacturing enterprise with total assets worth over US$1.58 billion and annual sales of up to US$3.16 billion. BMG has over 7,000 employees of which over 1,200 are non-Chinese. BMG has more than ten manufacturing enterprises in China located mainly in Sichuan and Chongqing. Internationally, it owns the Ghana Bauxite Company and Bosai Europe GMBH manufacturing in Germany. In Guyana, it owns Bosai Minerals Group (Guyana) Inc. and GMI. BMG anticipates that with its Guyana manganese acquisition, it will be able to produce 500,000 tonnes of additional concentrates annually. GMI has said that it plans to invest US$75 million into the project to restart manganese mining in Guyana after an absence of 50 years. It said mining would resume after rehabilitation with the aim of producing 2.0 million tonnes annually of manganese ore for processing to turn out 500,000 tonnes of concentrates for intermediate shipment to Brighton Port, Trinidad. In order to realise this project, the company said some 400 workers would be required over a one-year construction period. Project operation is intended to employ over 400 workers, of which 340 (85%) would be Guyanese with the others being technical trainers and process specialists from China. At the Port Kaituma wharf facility, some 200 workers will be required over a 7-month construction period while project operation is intended to employ some 30 workers, of which 27 (90%) would be Guyanese with the others being administrators and specialist technicians from China. GMI was keen to note that the extraction rates planned when related to current reserves yield a mine and project life of 13 years. MONDAY TT LOST US$17B IN SEVEN YEARS BY RUSHING INTO GAS TRADE - EXPERT URGES GUYANATO TAKE NOTE Lack of knowledge and, perhaps, a heavy dose of gullibility are two of the main reasons why Trinidad and Tobago ended up losing billions of dollars in oil and gas revenue over the last few decades. Expounding on this front during an exclusive interview, Trinidadian energy strategist,
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that being Guyanese, while adding that one of the key ways it can do this is to equip itself with the knowledge that it needs on each aspect of the sector so that the right decisions can be made. FOREIGNER GETS PRIVATE SECURITY SERVICE LICENCE IN 25 DAYS - LOCALS MADE TO WAIT MONTHS, YEARS
Anthony Paul shared that his home country took for granted, the importance of learning everything it should about the trading of gas, and instead, trusted oil companies to sell their gas resources in a transparent and honest manner. Paul shared that, as a result of this, the oil companies were able to funnel US$17B into the pockets of its shareholders. He said this is money that the oil companies should have paid in taxes between 2010 and 2017. Had Trinidad been a prudent manager, the expert was keen to note, this money could have been collected and used to clear a significant part of Trinidad’s national debt which stood at US$22B during that time. Further to this Paul said, “TT is not a player in the downstream part of the Liquefied Natural Gas Market (LNG), which is where most of our gas goes. In other words, we don’t get involved in LNG trading. As a result, we don’t get the best price, and the companies which sell our resources on our behalf, skillfully choose which markets to do so…” Kaieteur News understands that in many instances, these companies would sell the gas resources to their affiliates at low prices to avoid paying their rightful taxes. When the affiliates sell the gas resources to the world market, they make a killing in profits and wire those moneys to the headquarters. The industry expert added, “…Now this is not illegal. Remember, companies have one goal, which is to
maximize profits. So they would do what they can to pay as little tax as possible…” Paul said that Trinidad tried to mitigate this abuse by trying to use more of its gas for manufacturing purposes but even this failed to solve its problems as the government he said, did not pay attention to market prices for the products, which it sought to produce, nor was it guided by a policy on what were the best gas products that should be manufactured. Paul said that the country did manage to make some money in the initial stages but another big misstep was that TT failed to properly push productive capacity in other sectors. He said that this failure to diversify and not be overly dependent on oil money resulted in more costly consequences. The Chatham House Advisor said, “…You see, it does not take a lot of brain power from the government to get that money flowing from the oil and gas sector…But without the control systems to manage expenditure and other challenges that come along the way, quite frankly, it leads to corruption. And soon enough, significant value is lost.” While Guyana may not be trading in gas at this time, Paul stressed that Guyana can certainly take a cue from the consequences Trinidad and Tobago was made to suffer. At the end of the day, he stressed that the authorities of the day must at all cost operate with the frame of mind that they have to return the most value to its shareholders,
A local mining company has raised concerns after it discovered that another mining conglomerate headed by a Belgium national got approval for a private security service licence in 25 days, yet locals have to wait for longer periods, sometimes years to receive such documents. Kaieteur News understands that it did not take much time either for the foreign operated company to receive permission to carry firearms as well. The representatives of the local company said they were surprised when they heard of this, because it took the Guyana Police Force (GPF) more than a year to grant them approval. Permission for a private security services licence is granted by the Commissioner of Police. According to Section Eight of the Private Security Services Act of 2009, the controlling authority (Commissioner of Police) can grant or refuse to grant the licence in 60 days. The Act states, “On receipt of an application under Section Seven and after making the inquiries as he considers necessary, the Controlling Authority may, subject to the conditions and limitations as may be specified in the licence, either grant a licence on Form II in the Schedule within a period of sixty days from the date of receipt of the application complete in all respects or refuse to grant a licence”. The local company revealed that they had applied for the licence in 2015 and only got their approval in 2017. A year later, on January 16, 2018, a Belgium National registered a company licenced to trade diamonds, gold and other precious minerals. He received his certificate of incorporation on January 18, 2018 and three months later, on April 2, 2018 his company was granted a Private Security Services licence. Twenty-Five days later on April 27, 2018, the foreign owned company received a signed letter of approval for the licence by the then Acting Commissioner of Police,
David Ramnarine. Kaieteur News is also in receipt of copies of legal documents, which show that the foreigner was granted his licence in 25 days, while the local company got its approval more than a year after applying. This newspaper also made a few calls to other local companies with private security services licences to ascertain how long it took for them to get approval. The companies, who wished not to be named, disclosed that they did not receive their licences in such a fast time frame. One person said his approval took seven months to be granted while another had to wait after a year. After getting their approval, the companies revealed that getting permission to use firearms was just a formality and only took an additional few months. The Giftland Mall in an invited comment stated, that it had applied in 2015 and got approval a few months later in that same year. However, it was a long wait before permission was granted for the Security Service of the Giftland Mall to carry firearms. After receiving its licence to operate a private security service, the Giftland Mall had applied for the permission to carry arms but had never received approval. In 2017, the company reapplied again after it made changes in the structure of its security service but again, approval was never granted. In February 2020, armed bandits stormed into the mall, fired shots in the air and caused mayhem in the establishment. Hundreds of customers had scattered looking for cover. The Proprietor of Giftland Mall, Roy Beepat, had told the media that his security service was unable to properly protect the establishment because they were unarmed. The reason for this he had stated, was because of the constant delays and long wait for his security service to obtain permission to carry weapons. In November 2020, according to the Proprietor of Giftland Mall, he decided to reapply for a third time. This time, permission was granted seven months later in June 2021. The company said that it was quite grateful for the recent approval to carry firearms after the long wait. Reliable sources at GPF were contacted by this media house for some clarity on the time it takes to grant the Private Security Services Licences, and permission to use firearms.
Those sources revealed that process is not a lengthy one but sometimes, the list of applicants is very long. Sometimes, they continued, some applicants are at the bottom of the list and those companies are made to wait longer than others. TUESDAY HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS IN OLD AGE PENSION PAYMENTS UNACCOUNTED FOR AT GPOC The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the National Assembly was on Monday told that the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) is unable to account for hundreds of millions of dollars meant for the monthly payments of old age pension. The vexing issue was first raised by the Auditor General in his 2016 report on government accounts, which had found that the payment vouchers could not be reconciled. Auditor General (AG), Deodat Sharma, has since ordered that the accounts be closed in order to facilitate an in depth reconciliation of the monies. The Committee heard that the monies do not account for one year but rather obtained over a number of years but by 2016, the year under review, the amount had reached some $594 million. Compounding the situation, the Audit Office has since deemed the Corporation as having a disclaimer status with regards its audits. AG Sharma, who was present for Monday’s session of the PAC meeting, informed the members that there are three statuses deemed by auditors, namely qualified, unqualified and disclaimer. According to Sharma, disclaimer refers to a situation where documents are not provided to facilitate an audit. The information was had as the Committee grilled the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Shannielle Hoosein-Outar, over the unaccounted money. The PAC heard that the process involves the Ministry frontloading monies to the GPOC in order to make pension payments to the elderly after which, the vouchers would be reconciled at the levels of the then Ministry of Social Protection and Ministry of Finance. Permanent Secretary Hoosein-Qutar in providing (Continued on page 27)
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From page 26 some clarity to the members of the committee indicated that among the challenges is the fact that the process involves three separate agencies, namely the two ministries and the post office corporation. She told members that as soon as the Ministry closes the account, which is scheduled for August this year, it will allow teams from the AG Office, along with the Ministry, to endeavour to conduct an in depth audit of the records. Pressed on whether the situation of reconciliation between the ministry and the post office is a result of a systemic problem or carelessness, the official conceded that there were no effective systems in place previously, a situation the officials are attempting to address. The committee also heard of additional security features being put in place since 2003 at which time a $13 million fraud had been unearthed and another in 2011. According to the AG report under scrutiny, the Old Age Imprest Bank Account was established to facilitate the operations of the Old Age Pension (OAP) Scheme and the Public Assistance (PA) Programme. The AG had found however, that according to the cashbook summary at the time, the sum of $600.428 million was indebted by GPOC to the Ministry. “It should be noted, that an examination of the corrected reconciliation statements from GPOC for the period June to December 2016 revealed that the Corporation was indebted to the Ministry the sum of $532.407 million. As a result, there is a difference of $68.021 million between the records kept at the Ministry and GPOC reconciliation statement,” the AG had found. The Ministry at the time had sought to explain that a reconciliation statement between GPOC and the Ministry of Social Protection for the year 2016 was prepared and submitted to the Auditors. As such, the PS indicated, “the Cash Book has now been adjusted in 2017 to reflect the sum of $640.742 million due by GPOC as at 31 December, 2016 and the unreconciled difference reduced to $115.932 million.” KAIETEUR NEWS’ WEBSITE UNDER CONSTANT ATTACK …APPEARS TO BE A SOPHISTICATED, STRATEGICATTEMPT TO MAKE SITE INACCESSIBLE - IT TECHNICIAN I n f o r m a t i o n Communication Technology
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(ICT) technicians attached to the Kaieteur News have detected what they have described as a collective and continued effort to bring down the website that appears to be well funded. According to the publication’s ICT Chief, about a month ago the technicians detected the Distributed Denial of Service (DDOS) software attempting to make the website inaccessible. It was explained that ordinarily these programmes can be paid for on the dark web by companies offering such services for as little as US$20. The aim of DDOS programmes are meant to overwhelm them with more traffic than the server or network can accommodate. The technician told this publication however, that given the level and nature of the attacks, it appears to be a well-funded initiative. Similar attempts were being made to prevent access to the Kaieteur News’ online server during its reportage on Bai Shan Lin and other such Chinese companies and their operations locally. The technician noted that at the time, they were able to detect that the attempts were being made out of China and that the company resorted to blocking the entire country from accessing the website. The recent attacks however, are more sophisticated and strategic. The technician explained that this time around, the attacks cannot be pinpointed since they are being traced to multiple addresses around the world from countries such as Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the United States of America and a number of European countries. It was noted too that in the past with similar types of attacks, a firewall would offer protection and the attempts would dissipate after which the protections can be taken down. It was noted however, that this time around whenever this is done the attacks are resumed within minutes. WEDNESDAY LONE LOCAL COMPANYAMONG THOSE BIDDING TOAUDIT GUYANA’S OILTAKE Eclisar Financial and Professional Services, which provides accounting assistance and financial advice for Guyanese businesses, was the only local bidder among five companies that have expressed interest in providing consulting
services for cost recovery audit and validation of the Government’s profit oil share from their contract with ExxonMobil, for the period 2018 to 2020. The company, which was established back in 2012, is presently being managed by its founder and Managing Director, Azzar Haniff, a chartered and forensic accountant. The Government previously had committed to outsourcing the country’s oil revenue, saying that all the costs being claimed by ExxonMobil and its Stabroek block partners would have to be audited. Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during a press conference last year noted that the audit is essential, as it is one of the things that can affect Guyana’s share of the revenue. The cost audit will require the provision of on-the-job training for the employees of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) and the Natural Resources Ministry and agencies as directed by the Government. During the opening of tenders at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), the companies applying for the consultancy were Bayphase Oil and Gas Consultants; Rosa, Correia & Associados (RCA) Inc. in partnership with Swale House Partners; Gaffney Cline and Associates in partnership with Squire Patton Boggs; Calender Law Firm; and Eclisar Financial and Professional Services. Bayphase, which was established in 1986, is a United Kingdom (UK) company that is a recognised
leader in the assessment of all costs associated with oil and gas projects. The UK firm was hired by Guyana back in 2019 to review and evaluate the Payara Field Development Plans. Rosa, Correia and Associados Inc., which is a Portugal company, established in 1980, provides auditing and consulting services. It is registered with the Association of Chartered Accountants, which is a part of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). Meanwhile, Swale House – RCA’s partner in the bid – is a US company that claims to provide a natural resource risk management services. According to the company’s page “we are a team of risk, technical and management specialists with extensive experience assisting government managers improve outcomes during natural resources and public finance transitions.” Gaffney Cline and Associates is a petroleum consulting company that is headquartered in the UK and is a subsidiary of Baker Hughes. Baker Hughes is an American international industrial service company that has dealings in Guyana. While Squire Patton Boggs is a US law firm that was established in 2014. Calendar Law Firm is also a US-based law firm. OPPOSITION COMMISSIONERS EXIT GECOM MEETING ON FATE OF LOWENFIELD, MYERS, MINGO Opposition-appointed Commissioners of the Guyana Election Commission (GECOM), Tuesday
prematurely left a meeting, which was scheduled to discuss the dismissal of Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield; Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO), Roxanne Myers; and Region Four’s Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo. Government appointed Commissioner, Sase Gunraj, disclosed that Desmond Trotman, Vincent Alexander and Charles Corbin, the three Commissioners who were appointed by the A Partnership For National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition, prematurely exited the virtual meeting before the matter could be discussed, or a decision could be met. Gunraj said that the panel is now awaiting word from the Chairperson of the Commission, Justice (Ret’d), Claudette Singh, on the way forward. He noted that while the law provides that a quorum of GECOM Commissioners is needed when decisions of such are being made, Article 226 (5) of the Guyana Constitution, also makes provision for the absence of that quorum. Article 226 (5) states that: “For the purposes of the preceding paragraphs, a quorum shall consist, in the case of the Elections Commission, of the Chairman and not less than four members, two of whom have been appointed by the President in his own deliberate judgment, and two from among members appointed on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition tendered in accordance with Article 161.” Further, the Article 226 (5) (b) provides that if at any
stage of a duly summoned meeting a quorum is not present, due to the absence of members therefore without just cause, such just cause being determined by the Chairman, the meeting shall stand adjourned to a day not later than two calendar days…the meeting shall stand adjourned to the following day, at the same time and place, and notice of such adjournment shall be given to the absent members; and if at the adjourned meeting a Quorum is not present, the members then present, being not less than four including the Chairman, shall be deemed to constitute a quorum, and any decision made at that or any such meeting shall be valid in law and binding.” Meanwhile, Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo remain on administrative leave pending the outcome of discussions by GECOM on the motions seeking their dismissal. The motions to dismiss Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo, were tabled by People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) appointed GECOM Commissioners Bibi Shadick, Sase Gunraj and Manoj Narine, at a statutory meeting of the Commissioners, earlier this month. The three officials who are currently before the court on charges related to electoral fraud, were cited for a series of grave violations connected to the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections. The motion against Lowenfield outlined, that he failed and/or refused and/or neglected to ensure that the process of ascertaining the total number of votes cast in favour of each list of candidates for Elections District Number Four by adding up the votes recorded in the Statements of Poll, was done without “inordinate or undue delay.” Specifically, the motion detailed among other things, what was referred to as Lowenfield’s open defiance of court orders in his “active pursuit to fraudulently declare” the APNU+AFC Coalition as winners of the March 2, 2020 Regional and General Polls. The motion points to the CEO’s preparations of a final report pursuant to Section 99 of Representation of People’s Act, containing all of the unverified votes as declared by Mingo in which he declared the APNU+AFC the winners despite the injunctions pending a decision of Chief Justice, Roxane George-Wiltshire. In another instance, the document outlined that the (Continued on page 28)
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From page 27 CEO was found in breach by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), in relation to the recount report submitted on June 23, 2020, “when he took it upon himself to invalidate such votes as he considered ought to be invalidated.” In a second motion, the PPP/C Commissioners note, inter alia, that the DCEO acted on her own volition when she facilitated a meeting on March 5, 2020, with a candidate of the contesting party, a former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Karen Cummings, at the GECOM’s Command Centre at Ashmin’s building. It noted too, that Myers acted on her own volition when she instructed police officers to remove Commissioner Gunraj and others from the building on March 5, 2020. This, according to the Commissioners, caused the loss of public confidence in the electoral process. Meanwhile, as it relates to Mingo, the motion points to his orchestration of the attempt to rig the elections in favour of APNU+AFC. Among other things, the document calling for Mingo’s dismissal notes, that without any lawful authority or proper justification or excuse, the Returning Officer deliberately failed, refused and neglected to ascertain the total votes cast in favour of each list in the district by adding up the votes recorded in favour of the list, in accordance with the Statements of Poll as is required by the Section and instead, he, whether by himself or those acting with his authority or under his direction, sought to use in the adding up process figures. THURSDAY AUDIT OF EXXONMOBIL’S US$460M PRECONTRACT COSTS AN ABOMINATION -GOVT. SHOULD MAKE REPORT PUBLIC - SOURCE Upon reviewing reports pertaining to the audit of US$460M ExxonMobil claimed was spent prior to the discovery of oil in 2015, a reliable source has deemed the findings to be “an abomination.” In fact, the source urged this newspaper to challenge the government to make the audit report public, as it would expose how many loopholes have been left unaddressed. Kaieteur News had previously reported that the audit of the pre-contract costs was done by IHS Markit, a British firm, at a cost of US$300,000 ($62.6 million) in 2019.
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The contract had to be extended in May 2020 at no cost, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, former Head of the Energy Department, Dr. Mark Bynoe, had said this was mainly due to flight restrictions. Following the audit, a final report was awaiting comments from ExxonMobil for some time but those have been received. The source said it is quite saddening, especially in the interest of transparency and accountability, that the government has been silent about the results thus far. The reputable industry stakeholder who is also a trusted advisor to the administration further noted that the political opposition should utilise the powers of special select committees on natural resources to demand answers on these audits which will cost Guyanese taxpayers billions of dollars. The government advisor further questioned, “If these reports are not made public, how else will the Guyanese people know that the company selected for these audits did their job and gave the country value for money? How else will the public be able to have confidence that the government can be trusted to be a prudent overseer?” Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, had revealed during previous interviews that Guyana has in excess of US$6 billion in oil related expenses to audit from petro-giant ExxonMobil and other Stabroek Block partners, affiliates and sub-contractors. The country has a long way to go with little window to conduct its audits. Per the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) Guyana signed with ExxonMobil in 2016, the Minister with responsibility for the oil sector has only two years to audit the expenses incurred by the US supermajor at the end of each fiscal year. That is to say, the Minister would have had only up to 2017 to audit expenses incurred in 2015. And not only that, the government would also have to foot the bill for
all costs associated with that very audit. If the government fails to honour the contractual timelines, it would have to accept all costs as correct. Jagdeo had said too that costs incurred up to 2017, which total approximately US$1B, have also been audited but he has yet to provide the public with an update on this front. It was only Wednesday that Kaieteur News reported that several companies have submitted bids to audit costs incurred by ExxonMobil and its partners for the period 2018 to 2020. Eclisar Financial and Professional Services, which provides accounting assistance and financial advice for Guyanese businesses, was the only local bidder among five companies, which submitted bids to provide consulting services for cost recovery audit and validation of the Government’s profit oil share. Bayphase Oil and Gas Consultants; Rosa, Correia & Associados (RCA) Inc. in partnership with Swale House Partners; Gaffney Cline and Associates in partnership with Squire Patton Boggs; and Calender Law Firm were the other firms which expressed their interest in working for Guyana. Bayphase, which was established in 1986, is a United Kingdom (UK) company that is a recognised leader in the assessment of all costs associated with oil and gas projects. The UK firm was hired by Guyana back in 2019 to review and evaluate the Payara Field Development Plans. Rosa, Correia and Associados Inc., which is a Portugal based company, established in 1980, provides auditing and consulting services. It is registered with the Association of Chartered Accountants, which is a part of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). Meanwhile, Swale House – RCA’s partner in the bid – is a US company that claims to provide natural
resource risk management services. According to the company’s page, “we are a team of risk, technical and management specialists with extensive experience assisting government managers improve outcomes during natural resources and public finance transitions.” As for Gaffney Cline and Associates, it considers itself to be a petroleum consulting company that is headquartered in the UK and is a subsidiary of Baker Hughes. Baker Hughes is an American international industrial service company that has dealings in Guyana. It is also one of ExxonMobil’s strategic business partners. Squire Patton Boggs is a US law firm that was established in 2014. Calendar Law Firm is also a US-based law firm. The cost audit will require the provision of on-the-job training for the employees of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) and the Natural Resources Ministry and agencies as directed by the Government. TROY RESOURCES MINES OUT SURFACE GOLD RESERVES THEN FIRES LOCALS …TO USE EXPATS TO FOCUS ON UNDERGROUND MINING Having mined out the gold from what is considered the minimal subsurface area in the Hicks and Spearpoint pits of the Karouni gold mine, Australian owned Troy Resources has upped the ante with regards the firing of locals, in order to use expatriates to focus on an underground mining operation. This much is evident from a recent circular disseminated to local employees attached to the mines, which underscored that the company is currently “evaluating our manpower requirements and preparing
the plans for stepping down these members of our staff. The process has already started to occur with the reduction in the size of the mining and processing departments.” The circular to employees was signed by the mines General Manager, Colin Connors, a week ago, and sought to address the “discussion and uncertainty” about the future of the company and the employees. According to Connors in his missive, “I also realize that many of you have seen the recent news article about Troy’s downsizing; as of the end of June, mining in both Hicks and Spearpoint has ceased due to reaching the extent of the current designs.” He said, the operations plan “had us continuing the mining in the Goldstar area from June - August along with low grade stockpiles being used to provide the mill feed; however, sampling of the Hicks low grade stockpile showed the gold grade was not economic to process.” It was noted too that additionally, the processing of the Goldstar material showed that the amount of gold produced was significantly lower than predicted. “The combination of these two factors significantly reduced the cash flow of continuing operations” that led to a decision was made by the Senior Management to cease mining/milling operations and move into Care and Maintenance. Connors noted that as stated in the news reports, “we have notified the Ministry of Labour that we will be laying off a significant portion of our workforce, but the final amount has not been finalised.” Seeking to underscore that Troy is closing the mine, Connors used the occasion to disclose that “we are working to progress with the development of the SMARTS Underground project and are
evaluating an expansion of Hicks pit to access deeper portions of the ore body.” He said too that “additionally, we are continuing to explore within Troy’s vast concessions and have recently signed an agreement with Barrick Gold for them to explore on part of our concession.” He posited, “in other words, there is a strong potential sustained mining operations at Karouni; this shutdown is to allow the time to do the exploration and evaluation necessary to support a restart of operations.” Conceding the news of a shutdown would be met as a surprise, and in fact upsetting for all, Connors sought to explain that “this was not a decision that was made lightly but was a necessary one in light of the current business situation.” It was in May last that the Australian-owned company announced that it faces temporary closure later in the year as a result of the depleted ore being obtained from its primary mining pits. At the time, it said it was exploring purchasing the feedstock for its mill from third party miners. The information was disclosed to shareholders. Executives in an update had related to shareholders at the time that the primary source of ore delivered to the mill over the last 15 months has been the Hicks 4 open cut pit, while in recent months, a modest contribution also came from the Spearpoint open cut pit. These pits, the company said, are likely to be exhausted by mid-June or early July 2021. “The remaining volumes of ore in both pits,” it noted, “are somewhat lower than had previously been expected with a recent internal review of the calculation of model versus actual grade control data identifying a relatively modest u n f a v o u r a b l e discrepancy.” The company stated that in the interim, Troy is exploring the availability of third-party ore for toll treating or other opportunities and said, “…there is nothing further that can be reported at this stage.” It reported that gold production for the month of April was 2,140 ounces while the production forecast for the months of May and June are 2,400 and 1,909 ounces. The company said that its production rate is on track to (Continued on page 29)
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From page 28 realise at the end of June 2021, an average 2,200 ounces per month for the year. FRIDAY MINISTER BHARRAT ADMITS EXXON CONTRACT LOPSIDED - SAYS LOCAL CONTENT WILL PICK UP THE SLACK Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, Thursday admitted that the Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) is lopsided; that its terms do not give the Government as much benefit as it would have hoped. The Minister made these comments during a forum at the office of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber in Georgetown. The Chamber launched its training centre Thursday at its Middle Street office to educate stakeholders about the oil & gas industry. Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, and Senior Petroleum Coordinator at the Ministry of Natural Resources, Bobby Gossai Jr., also attended. They all made remarks about the importance of local content, which the Government expects to claw back the value lost from the lopsided PSA. “As a government, we are open to partnership with any individual organisation or agency that shares the view that Guyanese must benefit from the sector,” Bharrat said. “And how do we benefit as Guyanese from the sector? Of course, through a strong local content policy. Of course, we have a PSA that is not bringing the kind of benefits that we would have liked as a nation…” His colleague, Indar, said, “With the current construct of the ExxonMobil contract, 75% of the money spent in any calendar year, there is a cap on it for cost oil. How do you benefit from that? That is where the local content element comes in.” He said apart from the government take and money that will flow back into the economy, the money spent by the oil companies, for which cost recovery is capped at 75%, is money spent in the private sector. “What you have to understand is, that means that is a lot of money,” the Minister said, urging local businesses to grab up a slice of the cake. The Minister’s statements come after weeks of sustained protests by Kaieteur News and Guyanese home and abroad, for a better deal. The protests build on
years of exposes, and advocacy by the free press for a better deal for Guyana. Former Petroleum Advisor to the Government, Dr. Jan Mangal, in 2020 addressed the attempt by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/ C) Government to use local content as a substitute for a fair deal. The petroleum consultant had said on Kaieteur Radio that while local content is important, it cannot claw back all of the value lost from the lopsided Stabroek Block PSA. Dr. Mangal had said that local content is peanuts compared to the prosperity Guyana could get from a fair deal. US NOW STRENGTHENING CYBER-SECURITY SYSTEMS FOR GAS PIPELINES AFTER 12YEAR HACKING SPREE BY CHINESE ACTORS An investigation led by two major federal agencies in the United States of America (USA), the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), has found that 13 American gas pipelines suffered several attacks during a 12-year period by Chinese statesponsored actors. As a result of the foregoing findings, the US Administration has moved to strengthen its cyber-security regulations, which previously offered a light veil of protection. In an advisory published this week, CISA and the FBI were keen to note, that they have provided incident response and remediation support to a number of victims of this form of cyber-security breaches. Overall, both agencies said the U.S. Government identified and tracked 23 US Natural gas pipeline operators whose computerised systems were targeted from 2011 to 2013 in a spear phishing and intrusion campaign. Of the known targeted entities, 13 were confirmed compromises, three were near misses, and seven had an unknown depth of intrusion.
CISA and the FBI believe that these actors were specifically targeting U.S. pipeline infrastructure for the purpose of holding US pipeline infrastructure at risk. Additionally, CISA and the FBI assessed that this activity was ultimately intended to help China develop cyberattack capabilities against US pipelines to physically damage pipelines or disrupt pipeline operations. Additionally, both agencies urged owners and operators of the energy sector and other critical infrastructure (CI) networks to adopt a heightened state of awareness, and implement the recommendations they provided which include, implementing network segmentation between IT and industrial control system (ICS)/operational technology (OT) networks. “These mitigations will improve a CI entity’s defensive cyber posture and functional resilience by reducing the risk of compromise or severe operational degradation if the system is compromised by malicious cyber actors, including, but not limited, to actors associated with the campaign,” CISA stated. While China has denied accusations that actors linked to its government were behind the “malicious cyber activities,” the US has since stepped up to the plate to strengthen its cyber-security regulations. This week in fact, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) unveiled new pipeline cyber security rules alongside a rare warning about the decade-old hacking threat. In a report by the Energy Wire, it was noted that DHS separately issued a security directive this week requiring pipeline companies to set baseline defenses amid a recent uptick in ransomware attacks, which lock up victims’ computer networks and demand payment for the key. “The lives and livelihoods of the American people depend on our collective ability to protect our Nation’s critical infrastructure from evolving threats,” said
Homeland Security Secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas. “Through this Security Directive, DHS can better ensure the pipeline sector takes the steps necessary to safeguard their operations from rising cyber threats, and better protect our national and economic security.” But this sudden move to strengthen the cyber-security systems for pipelines only came after an attack in May by a Russian criminal group that forced Georgia-based Colonial Pipeline Company to halt nearly half U.S. gasoline deliveries to the East Coast for nearly a week. This spurred panic buying at gas stations and price spikes that lingered into June. Energy Wire noted that top intelligence officials and some pipeline executives had warned prior to the attack that given the cyber-security weaknesses for such infrastructure, a successful attack could cause weeks of disruptions and ripples across the energy sector. That advice is now being heeded. SATURDAY INT’LADVISORY GROUP SAYS… GUYANA RISKS OVERRELIANCE ON GAS PLANT AS PRIMARY SOURCE OF ELECTRICITY …DISRUPTION IN SUPPLY WOULD SUBSTANTIALLY INCREASE GPL COSTS Guyana runs the risk of being overly reliant on the proposed gas-to-energy initiative, which is being pursued by the PPP/C administration in cohorts with Stabroek Block Operator— Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) for its electricity supply. This is according to K&M Advisors, an international consultancy group that was commissioned to conduct a study on this matter by the I n t e r - A m e r i c a n Development Bank (IDB) back in 2019. In fact, should the proposed gas fired power
generation plant be faced with a supply challenge, K&M said it will require burning significantly more expensive backup fuel, which would substantially increase the cost of electricity generation to the Guyana Power and Light (GPL). With regards the level of risk, it was noted that with the gas plant, the country would be utilising up to 77 percent of generated electricity from Natural gas. The advisor group said, “This risk could be significantly reduced in case of implementation of the Arco Norte t r a n s m i s s i o n interconnection project connecting Guyana, Northern Brazil, Suriname and French Guiana.” Furthermore, it was noted in the report that based on an Expansion Study that was done, in a 50 million cubic feet per day scenario, the country’s generation capacity should be bumped up to 317 megawatts (MW) in 2023 when the gas plant is projected to come online. B y 2 0 3 5 h o w e v e r, generating c a p a c i t y, according to the study, will be revved up to 459MW. The report projects, that of this, GPL would still be generating some 116MW using Heavy Fuel Oil, Solar power would be contributing 24MW, Wind 40MW and Biomass 24MW with the additional 255MW coming from the proposed gas plant lending to the overreliance on that source of power. The report had indicated that despite GPL’s reduced generating capacity from the time the gas plant comes online in 2023, the utility company would have to still install additional capacity in 14 years’ time in 2035 at which time, the c o u n t r y ’s generation capacity would be fully utilised. This is in addition to the initial expenditure of installing two highpowered distribution cables ahead of any such project. The report done by K&M Advisors had outlined that utilising the committed amounts of 50 million cubic feet of gas daily from the Liza Destiny in the Stabroek Block, the project could see a new plant being constructed initially at a capacity of 102MW including two dual fuel engines with a total capacity of 34MW installed prior to 2023.
According to the report, the capacity will then gradually increase to 255MW and while adding that “there is sufficient firm generation capacity till 2035 to cover the peak load.” It was noted, that even though the firm capacity in 2035 is below the peak load plus 15 percent reserve margin by 9MW, at 41MW the reserve margin is still above 34MW (two times the capacity of the largest unit) and, therefore considered to be adequate. The scenario outlined by the consultants, is predicated on the use of dual fuel Wa r t s i l a reciprocating internal combustion engines (RICE) each at 17MW generating capacity. Importantly however, the report noted that it is likely that GPL will be required to start adding new firm capacity in 2035 to cover increasing peak loads beyond 2035. According to the consultants, the demand growth data and generation capacity additions presented in its analysis are based on the “Delayed Base Case” Scenario in the Expansion Study. The Delayed Base Case Scenario assumes that the electricity demand growth in Guyana would lag behind the expected growth in GDP resulting from the recent oil discoveries off Guyana’s coast and the associated investments. The report said too, that generation capacity analysis is based on the data provided by GPL on the existing generators, firm, and renewable capacity additions forecast by the Expansion Study. The additional Natural gas capacity, according to K&M’s analysis, is modified based on technology options, and the maximum capacity that can be supported by the proposed 50 million cubic per day Natural gas supply scenarios, “based on heat and material balance calculations.” The additional generation capacity to be installed would represent additional spending by the utility company in order to support the success of the gas-to-energy initiative. This publication has reported that much like the case of the Amaila Falls Hydro Electric Project, the publicly touted price tag had always excluded— prior to being exposed by this publication—that GPL would have had to incur its own spending to complement the project.
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==THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN==
My brother-in-law died at the Georgetown Hospital three days ago You don’t know what will be your station in later life. But if I fall sick, and I have no one on this earth to help me, I am telling well-wishers here and now, let me die rather than take me to the Georgetown Hospital. No poor person who cannot afford private facilities should enter the Georgetown Hospital. You are not coming out alive. My mother did not. My brother-in-law did not. My mother died at that hospital in 1985 in circumstances that are identical my brother-in-law’s situation. But here is an eerie dimension to his passing. After he was admitted, my nephew, his son, flew in to Guyana to take over. I had indicated that since he was available, he should be the one since Covid-19 would be a problem for me. On the first day of his arrival at the breakfast table, he said something that caused me to jump out of my seat with a rush of adrenalin. He has a lucrative job with one of the world’s leading financial institutions. He was dead serious when he told me that he had discovered a yearning for his Caribbean roots and wants to settle here or Trinidad. You don’t have to ask for my reaction. After spending two weeks in Guyana watching his neglected father die in the
Georgetown Hospital, this Guyanese is finished with Guyana. I may never see him again. He has no intention of coming back even for a day. So what happened at the Georgetown Hospital? Just a quick diversion. I take some responsibility. I know the CEO of the hospital. I taught him at UG. If I knew what was taking place, I would have contacted him and the minister. I should have gone and let the confrontation take place with those so-called doctors. I regret I didn’t go. On arrival in Guyana, my nephew saw his dad in the ICU. For the days he visited there, no doctor spoke to him about his dad’s illness. One day he turned up at the ICU only to be told his father was assigned to an open ward but no one at ICU knew which ward it was. My nephew walked to several wards looking for his father. Can one imagine such insanity in the 21st century? For the entire period, his dad was in the open ward no doctor was there during visiting hours. He requested to see a doctor to ascertain exactly what his father’s ailment was. The nurses simply told him they tried paging the doctor on duty but got no answer. The Wednesday night, the patient deteriorated. The
Thursday morning he died. My nephew asked the nurses if when his condition worsened if a doctor came, she told him she paged the doctor but he did not respond. From the time my brother-inlaw entered the Georgetown Hospital until he died his son did not know what his ailment was. He knew that from the death certificate. Getting the death certificate from the hospital took two days of running around. To get the hospital stamp on the funeral parlour’s document took an entire working day of running around. Getting permission from the Ministry of Health for cremation took two days. My nephew is in his mid forties, he lived in several Caribbean countries and several other countries, and he said what he experienced in Guyana was his first taste in life of what hellhole means. What is the problem with Guyana? I will not blame any government from President Hoyte right up to President Ali for what the Georgetown Hospital has. I honestly believe all those presidents wanted to see the primary hospital in Guyana deliver modern health care. It never did. I doubt it ever will because Guyana is jinxed. I imported a car from
Japan and when it came in 2019 and I went to uplift it at the GNIC wharf, it was almost an impossible task getting that car. Please see my column of Sunday October 27, 2019, “Always follow your instincts or you will lose your life.” My experience in getting that car tells me that no other country in this entire world is as dead as Guyana is. For two weeks in 2017, the Guyana Livestock Development Agency was
executing puppies at Ogle airport because the arriving persons couldn’t state the country of origin when most of the angels were from the interior of Guyana. To think it was veterinary doctors who were doing the killing not airport security. Past Police commissioners and traffic chiefs told me they prohibited traffic ranks from making random stops. It continues daily. Every visitor in the GRA looks sad as you enter. This is my country in the 21st
Frederick Kissoon century. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
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This pandemic is at the crossroads; we can control where it goes By Dr. Zulfikar Bux Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine, Vanderbilt Medical Center The new wave from the Delta variant is shaking the world and it may have reached our shores. I will not be surprised if we soon get hit with another wave that causes a surge in infections. However, we do have a decent vaccination rate and there is a good chance that we can ride the next wave if we increase our vaccine uptake in the next few weeks. The pandemic has shifted its focus to the unvaccinated and these are the persons that are mostly dying and getting serious infections. I still feel that we can shape the path of this virus by making wise choices. Today, I will share my thoughts on the trajectory of this virus, which depends so much on our choices. THE INCOMINGWAVE AFFECTING THE UNVACCINATED MOSTLY I would have previously shared data, which clearly shows that the unvaccinated are the ones that are being hospitalised and are dying from COVID-19. There are some persons that are even begging to be vaccinated while they are going through the devastating effects of the infection.
Unfortunately, one cannot be vaccinated while they are actively infected and persons should not think that they would choose to get vaccinated when they get infected and be protected. COVID-19 vaccines only work to prevent infections or serious forms of infections and are of no benefit if given to someone when they get infected. Unfortunately, there are still more persons that are unvaccinated rather than vaccinated. The virus that is now even more infectious, therefore still has a large population at its disposal to infect and cause unnecessary deaths and hospitalisations. CHILDREN MAYBECOME ATARGET GROUP We are seeing a rise in infections and hospitalisations in children recently and this may be related to the newer strains affecting children more than previous ones. Unfortunately, children are not vaccinated as yet and may become prime suspects for the virus as this pandemic evolves. Our hope is that children will still fare better than adults given their robust immune response from their recent childhood vaccination for other diseases. This somehow seems to help them to respond more efficiently and effectively when exposed
to COVID-19. However, this virus will elude some and the risk of causing devastating effects in some children is real. Until children are vaccinated against COVID-19, they will remain a high-risk group and the best way for us all to protect them in the meantime, is to maximise adult vaccinations so that there aren’t adults who can spread the infection to children. THE PATHS THAT THIS VIRUS CAN TAKE IN 2021 It is simple, once countries can up their vaccination rate and get above 80 percent vaccination coverage before the year is out, they should be able to exit the pandemic. However, this is heavily dependent on vaccine resistant strains of the virus not forming. There is a decent chance of this happening given the high numbers of unvaccinated persons. If vaccine resistant strains do form, it can potentially send the world into another phase of the pandemic until scientists can make sufficient vaccines to combat them. However, when viruses mutate, they tend to become less deadly and I’m optimistic that this virus will weaken with time and be less deadly. This will either lead to a situation where it become seasonal and act similar to the
flu or it is slowly wiped out as sufficient persons get vaccinated worldwide. In the meantime, we will have to ride this wave and hope that there are smaller spurts of infections in unvaccinated populations that are not sufficient to cause systemic collapse. What can you do to prepare for a new wave? I touched on this in last week’s article; the best way to prepare yourself is to practice the following measures:
· Get vaccinated ASAP. · Ensure your immune system is primed and as healthy as it can be. · Practice the 4Ds as much as possible. · Consult with your doctor to initiate treatment EARLY if you do get infected. Every time I look at the number of vaccinated persons, I am baffled why there are so many that choose to avoid vaccination against COVID-19. We are finally at a phase
Dr. Zulfikar Bux in the pandemic where we can shape our own destiny but yet we are allowing this opportunity to slowly slip from our grasp. Time waits for no one and this virus is similar in nature. Do not get left behind, get vaccinated and defeat COVID-19 before it defeats you!
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Vaccine inequity undermining global economic recovery ( Wo r l d H e a l t h Organization) - COVID-19 vaccine inequity will have a lasting and profound impact on socio-economic recovery in low- and lower-middle income countries without urgent action to boost supply and assure equitable access for every country, including through dose sharing, according to new data released by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the University of Oxford. An acceleration in scaling up manufacturing and sharing enough vaccine doses with low-income countries could have added $38 billion to their GDP forecast for 2021 if they had similar vaccination rates as high income countries. At a time when richer countries have paid trillions in stimulus to prop up flagging economies, now is the moment to ensure vaccine doses are shared quickly, all barriers to increasing vaccine manufacturing are removed and financing support are secured so vaccines are distributed equitably and a truly global economic recovery can take place. A high price per COVID19 dose relative to other vaccines and delivery costs including for the health workforce surge - could put a huge strain on fragile health systems and undermine routine immunisation and essential health services and could cause alarming spikes in measles, pneumonia and diarrhea. There is also a clear risk in terms of foregone opportunities for the expansion of other immunisation services, for example the safe and effective rollout of HPV vaccines. Lower income countries need timely access to sustainably priced vaccines and timely
financial support. These insights come from the Global Dashboard for COVID-19 Vaccine Equity, a joint initiative from UNDP, WHO and the University of Oxford’s Blavatnik School of Government, which
countries are projected to vaccinate quicker and recover economically quicker from COVID-19, while poorer countries haven’t even been able to vaccinate their health workers and most at-risk population and may not
WHO’s Chief, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
New Global Dashboard on COVID-19 Vaccine Equity finds low-income countries would add $38 billion to their GDP forecast for 2021 if they had the same vaccination rate as high income countries. Global economic recovery at risk if vaccines are not equitably manufactured, scaled up and distributed. combines the latest information on COVID-19 vaccination with the most recent socio-economic data to illustrate why accelerating vaccine equity is not only critical to saving lives but also to driving a faster and fairer recovery from the pandemic with benefits for all. “In some low- and middle-income countries, less than one per cent of the population is vaccinated this is contributing to a twotrack recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said UNDP Administrator, Achim Steiner. “It’s time for swift, collective action. This n e w Va c c i n e E q u i t y Dashboard will provide policymakers and international organisations with unique insights to accelerate the global delivery of vaccines and mitigate the devastating socio-economic impacts of the pandemic.” According to the new Dashboard, which builds on data from multiple entities including IMF, World Bank, UNICEF and Gavi, and analysis on per capita GDP growth rates from the World Economic Outlook, richer
ach ieve pre-COVID-19 levels of growth until 2024. Meanwhile, Delta and other variants are driving some countries to reinstate strict public health social measures. This is further worsening the social, economic and health impact, especially for the most vulnerable and marginalised people. Vaccine inequity threatens all countries and risks reversing hard won progress on the Sustainable Development Goals. ”Vaccine inequity is the world’s biggest obstacle to ending this pandemic and recovering from COVID19,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the W o r l d H e a l t h O r g a n i z a t i o n . “ E c o n o m i c a l l y, epidemiologically and morally, it is in all countries’ best interest to use the latest available data to make lifesaving vaccines available to all.” Designed to empower policy makers and development partners to take urgent action to reduce vaccine inequity, the Global
Dashboard breaks down the impact of accessibility and affordability against a target for countries to vaccinate their at risk populations first to reduce mortality and protect the health system and then move on to vaccinating larger shares of the population to reduce disease burden and re-open socioeconomic activity. The Dashboard is facilitated by the Global Action Plan for Healthy Lives and Well-being for All (SDG3 GAP), which aims to improve collaboration
across the multilateral system to support an equitable and resilient recovery from the pandemic and drive progress towards the health-related SDGs. “Closing the vaccine gap is required to put this pandemic behind us. The dashboard can help scale up and accelerate global delivery of vaccines by providing accurate, up-todate information on not just how many vaccines have been given, but also the policies and mechanisms through which we get them
into arms,” said Dr. Thomas Hale, Associate Professor of Global Public Policy, Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. The Dashboard will be updated in real-time as new data becomes available, filling a critical gap to help guide the international community’s understanding of what can be done to achieve vaccine equity. Users are able and encouraged to download all data sets in full from the website.
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Sunday July 25, 2021
Lessons from a Lashpreneur!!!
Eyelash mistakes you’re probably making By Latoya Zephyr Hey lash babes,this week we’re gonna look at some eyelash mistakes you’re probably making....without even realizing. If you've been critical of your lashes, thinking they're less than phenomenal, and have started considering ways to beef them up, you'll be happy to know that you can actually enhance them without any special treatments. And, even if you've already tried out extensions or other lash enhancements, you can still benefit by making a few simple changes and correcting some common lash mistakes. Here's how. 1.Sleeping in your mascara Even if you're diligent about removing your foundation and lipstick before climbing into bed, you might not be as fastidious about removing your mascara. You may not even think much of it, but some pretty nasty things can happen if you don't remove the cosmetic from your lashes. significant eye irritation can occur if mascara gets into your eyes while sleeping. Leftover mascara can also result in clogging of the tiny hair follicles and oil glands on your eyelids.When clogged, bacteria forms and inflammation follows. As a result, small bumps called styes or hordeolums can form. It's better to play it safe and properly remove your mascara before hitting the hay. 2.Going too big with your extensions Go big or go home, right? Well, not when it comes to your eyelash extensions. If you're considering extensions, you are obviously looking for fuller, longer lashes. Nevertheless, you have to be careful. Professional lash techs typically refuse to put on a lash extension that is too heavy or too long for a natural lash. The risk of overly long lashes apparently far outweighs the reward. "You can cause permanent damage to your follicle or cause the lash to prematurely fall out. But don't freak out. This doesn't mean you should totally fear getting extensions and write them off forever. By doing your research and visiting a reputable lash tech, you can avoid having the wrong type of lash applied
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and thus avoid having any kind of damage done to your natural lashes. 3.Wearing expired mascara How long ago did you open that tube of mascara you're wearing? If it was during a different season or worse, if you can't even remember when it was,throw it away! Mascara has the shortest shelf life of all beauty products and should be discarded two to three months after opening. Depending on the brand, mascara can be quite expensive which only makes it harder to toss before you've finished the tube. Still, there are some very real health risks if you continue using your mascara past the expiration date. You use mascara near your eyes, it's liquid which tends to grow more bacteria and you double dip every time you re-insert the brush into the tube, all of which increase the risk of eye infection.For every day you go past that two- to threemonth mark, you're just coating your eyelashes in more and more bacteria. 4.Rubbing your eyes If your morning routine involves rubbing your eyes, you're actually doing a disservice to both your eyes and your eyelashes. Just like whiskers on a cat or a dog, lashes can help us sense if anything is too close and incite a blink if necessary. Lashes also work
to prevent dust and debris from coming into contact with our eyes. If you rub your eyes, though, you're basically undoing all of your eyelashes' hard work. Plus, if you're someone who suffers from allergies, you might just be putting what you're allergic to like pollen directly into your eyes. Not exactly the most pleasant experience. 5.Always wearing waterproof mascara Waterproof mascara is a pretty nifty invention and one that is definitely appreciated during weddings, beach vacations, and sappy movies. Even though you might not be able to predict when your next cry will be, waterproof mascara isn't a good choice for everyday wear. What makes the waterproof mascara so great also happens to be its downfall: staying power. As you likely know from trying to scrub this cosmetic from your lashes, waterproof mascara is incredibly difficult to remove. Over time, vigorous removal can tug and pull on your lash line, causing them to weaken and break.While it may be great not to have to worry about crying muddy black tears, it's certainly better than dealing with broken lashes from trying to remove your waterproof mascara. Instead, opt for a tubing mascara containing flexible polymers which require only warm water to remove.
Guyana Talent Search shows tonight on E1 Tonight at 7PM, the Enetworks team will be airing another episode of the Guyana Talent Search Programme which is proudly sponsored and produced by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport. Be sure to tune in and witness the nation’s singing, dancing and poetic talents in all their splendor.
Six interesting facts about Dewar’s Scotch Whisky
Whether you’re an avid Scotch drinker or a dedicated television watcher, you’ve probably heard of Dewar’s. The Perth, Scotland-based whisky brand has been around since 1846 and has since become a staple on bar carts around the globe. The beloved Scotch may be a worldwide household name, but there’s always more to learn. Read on for 10 facts that every whisky lover should know about Dewar’s. THE STORY STARTS WITH FAMILY. The brand was founded in 1846 by John Dewar, alongside his sons John Alexander and Tommy. In the 1880s, John officially passed the family business along to John Alexander and Tommy, who marketed Dewar’s across the world and built the brand’s Aberfeldy distillery in 1898. While the brand is no longer run by the Dewar family, it is proudly headed by master blender Stephanie MacLeod, who has been with
Dewar’s for almost 25 years. FOR DEWAR’S, AGE IS MORE THAN JUSTA NUMBER. The brand ages its Scotch twice — once before blending, and once after. Dewar’s claims that this double-aging process allows for a more balanced whisky. IT CLAIMS TO HAVE PIONEERED ONE OF AMERICA’S FAVORITE LIBATIONS. Legend has it that Tommy Dewar loved traveling almost as much as he loved whisky. The brand’s co-founder even wrote a book about his “Ramble Round the Globe,” in which he claims to have invented the original Highball — made with whisky, soda, and ice — while visiting New York. DEWAR’S GOES FOR THE GOLD. Dewar’s proclaims itself the world’s most awarded blended Scotch whisky — gaining thousands of awards to date and medaling three
times in the 2019 International Whisky Competition. DEWAR’S FOUND ITS WAY INTO THE WHITE HOUSE. Tommy Dewar loved his family’s Scotch so much that he decided then-U.S. president Benjamin Harrison would, too. In 1891, Dewar reportedly sent an 18gallon cask of Dewar’s as a gift to the White House at the request of Scottish-American industrialist Andrew Carnegie. This action sparkled anger in American whiskey brands, which supposedly resented the president’s decision to consume “foreign whisky.” IT HAS THE QUEEN’S STAMP OF APPROVAL. On yet another one of his adventures, Tommy stopped in the U.K. in 1893 and was able to convince Queen Victoria to grant a royal warrant to Dewar ’s. The brand was the first blended Scotch to receive such an endorsement.
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Which Is Worse For Your Health - Sugar Or Carbs? There is one question that puzzles us as much as the ‘which came first – the egg or the hen’ question. This one is linked to health. You guessed right! If you are conscious about your health, we bet you may have googled this question as well. Let us put this musing to rest, once and for all and get to the bottom of the conundrum. The origin of the debate Ever since the pandemic struck and we have been trapped in our homes, we have been bombarded with social media posts and discussions on the need to be mindful of our health. Now more than ever, with a virus running rampant, we have to scrutinize our dietary and lifestyle choices. The COVID infection has the potential to take a nasty turn if we are already saddled with comorbidities such as obesity. For the first time, the whole nation began to scrutinize health and how it can be improved through a strict diet. And at the forefront of the list of foods that we decided to be wary about were – sugar and carbohydrates. But what if there was more to the story than what you already know? Which is more dangerous of the two and are the carbohydrate and sugar side effects as they are made out to be? Let us take a look. Here’s what you should know about sugars What are sugars? Simply put, sugars are the simplest form of carbohydrates. Monosaccharides and Disaccharides are the two categories of sugars. Monosaccharides – glucose, galactose and fructose. Disaccharides – sucrose, maltose, lactose and trehalose. Monosaccharides and Disaccharides can be found in nature (in fruits and vegetables). They are produced during photosynthesis. Sugars can also be extracted from the said natural products and used as an additive. That is why sugars can also be categorized into: Natural sugars Added/processed sugars The composition of both is exactly the same. When you eat plant products, you are consuming sugar, the same sugar that you add to desserts, the ones that are present in candies, ice-creams and fruit juices. Your body is blind to the source of the sugars. When monosaccharides and disaccharides enter the body, they are broken down into the simplest form of sugar-glucose. This glucose is used by your body as energy to carry out all its functions. So why is sugar bad? Technically, sugar isn’t
harmful in fact, it is essential. It is our obsession with added sugars and the processed sugar side effects that pose a serious risk to your health. Added sugar is sugar that you do not need because this is excess sugar. The added sugar side effects will do the following: Increases the risk of the development of belly (visceral) fat that is linked to heart diseases. Increases the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and impotence. May speed up the process of ageing. Can lead to weight gain and risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The optimum amount of daily sugar consumption should not be more than: 25 grams for women 36 grams for men This target can easily be met by fruits and vegetables (and yes, no need to forego mangoes, ripe papayas or bananas to curb your sugar intake, these are very beneficial fruits). Just say no to processed sugar. Here’s what you should know about carbohydrates Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients (along with fats and proteins). Sugars are a type of carbohydrate. Fibres and starches (called polysaccharides) are also carbs. All carbohydrates are broken down by your body into glucose which in turn acts as fuel to power all your activities. So why is a carbs diet considered harmful? Not all carbohydrates are bad. There are two types of carbs: Simple carbs – These have a simple chemical structure and your body can rapidly break them down. This triggers a rapid spike in blood sugar levels soon after a meal. But the level drops quickly afterwards. This also translates to a quick depletion of energy and fast digestion. This in turn also makes you feel hungry in a very short time and eager to eat more. Complex carbs – These have a more complex structure and the body takes much longer to break them into glucose. That means there will not be a rapid rise and crash in blood sugar levels. The complex carbs will provide you with a steady supply of energy and keep you feeling full for long. So, you see, a simple carbs diet can be dangerous. Examples of foods you need to be cautious about are: Cookies Baked products Fruit juices White bread Table sugar (both brown
and white) Ketchup Complex carbohydrates are good for you. Examples of good carbohydrates are: Whole grains Fruits Vegetables Beans Nuts Oats Cereals It is recommended that 45% – 55% of calories of our calorie intake should come from carbohydrates. So, you cannot do away with a carbs diet or you would not be able to function. Choose your carbs wisely. What happens if you consume too many simple carbs? Uncontrolled simple carb consumption can trigger: Obesity Cardiovascular diseases What should you do to stay healthy? Now you know that you cannot eliminate carbohydrates and sugars from your diet. So here are a few suggestions for you: Avoid added sugars and simple carbohydrates as much as possible. Make sure that you do some exercise regularly so that even if you have consumed simple carbs and processed sugar, you can burn up the excess. Eat fresh fruits (such as apples, pears, bananas, papayas, vegetables), whole grains, dairy products and nuts (such as almonds or peanuts) regularly. Learn to deal with stress to avoid stress-eating. Improve your quality of sleep. Steer clear of junk foods, excess alcohol and smoking. Don’t let diet fads call the shots. Your needs are unique to your body, sex, age and geographic location. Be wise and mindful of your diet and lifestyle choices and your health will naturally improve itself. Key Takeaways Both sugars and carbohydrates are essential to the functioning of the body because they provide us with energy. Natural sugars found in fruits and vegetables are beneficial and can meet the daily required sugar intake. Table sugar or processed sugar is additional sugar consumption and can trigger serious health issues such as obesity or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Complex carbohydrates such as whole grains and fruits are good for health. Simple carbohydrates found in desserts and junk food increase the risk of obesity and diabetes. Brown sugar may be
slightly healthier than regular sugar but the healthy serving of brown sugar is just one teaspoon. More than that may be harmful to you. Consumption of sugary foods can impact brain chem-
istry to make you crave more sweets and desserts. Disclaimer: The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treat-
ment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
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==GNBS IN FOCUS== MEETING STANDARD REQUIREMENTS TO PRODUCE QUALITY COCONUT OIL
C
oconut oil has always been a common product in many Guyanese households. In recent years, its popularity has extremely increased due to its added health benefits, including fat burning, antimicrobial effects, and the raising of HDL (good) cholesterol. However, did you know that there is a national standard, which provides specification for this commodity? The National Standard Specification for coconut oil (GYS 54:1996) was developed by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) to offer guidance on the production of coconut oil with consistent quality. The document provides requirements and methods of sampling and test of coconut oil intended for edible and industrial use at the commercial level.
One of the key criteria for producing quality coconut oil is to ensure that the oil is obtained from good quality coconut cake or clean and sound copra. The standard specifies that the product must be free from rancidity, adulterants, sediment, suspended impurities and separated water. In addition, when tested, the oil shall be free from admixture with other oils or fats and conform to the physical and chemical characteristics outlined in the standard. These characteristics include colour, melting point, moisture specific gravity and the presence of free fatty acids such as lauric acid. Two types and grades of coconut oil are highlighted in this national standard. Type 1 – Expressed and Type 2 – Solvent extracted. Both types have three grades - refined,
semi-refined and crude. According to the document, coconut oil, which is exposed for sale or is intended for sale should be packed or pre-packaged in accordance with specified legal and other requirements and any contractual agreement between the buyer and seller. Marking and labelling requirements are also specified for shipping containers, retail and nutrient contents, when applicable.
Unless otherwise specified, shipping containers containing coconut oil shall indicate the name, type and grade of product, the quality of each type and the name and address of the consignee. The product should also be labelled with the country of origin, the name and address of the manufacturer, the gross weight of the container and the month and year of packing. In relation to retail, containers shall be labelled in
accordance with the National Standard (GYS 9-9: 2000) “Specification for labelling of commodities- Part 9: Labelling of prepackaged foods.” In cases where the product is mixed with vitamins or any other essential food constituent, labelling is required if a single serving of the product provides one-sixth of the recommended daily dietary allowance of the named vitamin or other essential
food constituent. Local manufacturers and suppliers of coconut oil are encouraged to acquire a copy of this national standard and to implement the requirements therein to ensure that they consistently produce a quality product for their customers.For further information, contact the GNBS on telephone numbers: 219-0064-66. Please visit our website: www.gnbsgy.org and like our Facebook page: gnbsgy
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Kaieteur News
Sunday July 25, 2021
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 25, 2021
Struggling greens vendors... From page 10 $160 for a pound has seen an increase to $240 to $300. Tomatoes which were $100 to $160 a pound are now $500 wholesale. She stated that she believes the farmers are exploiting them. Other vendors also stated the price that the farmers are selling these goods for are “ridiculous” and the goods are not even worth the price. This they say is a dilemma that is causing customers to not want to purchase because the price is more than the quantity, and the quality is not good enough. Still, others do not necessarily agree, acknowledging that because of the rain, farmers’ lands were flooded making it hard for them to harvest in a quantity as they used to. “Farmers also need to make a living,” said one Stabroek Market vendor. Most vendors agree that purchasing the greens from the farmers at such an expense with no guarantee that all the goods are in proper condition, is another major problem, leaving them often with a
large number of perishable greens in stock. A frustrated vendor vented saying, “How will we be able to make a living if we are not making a profit from what we sell? What will be the outcome if things continue to go on like this? Do the vendors have a future to look forward to if this continues to go on?” A vendor at the A. Arhune stall, La Penitence, stated that these customers are complaining. Not only are the customers not satisfied with the price, they are also not purchasing greens as regularly as they used to. Vendors this paper spoke to said, that despite their plight, there isn’t anything they can do about their situation because customers’ salaries remain the same. A vendor at Stabroek mentioned that they have to meet the consumer’s budget regardless of what they face. Vendors all indicated that it is their hope that as we come out of the rainy season the situation at the markets can go back to normal, leaving them with a better tomorrow.
Local singing sensation, ‘RAP Anna’,... From page 19 She tells this publication that her love for the genre of music comes from the admiration she holds for singers like Nicki Minaj and Jason Derulo. The youngster told this publication that she was also inspired by her parent’s hardworking attitude and their drive to never give up. With that, she decided that write “Unstoppable” because she wants to let children in not only Guyana, but the world, know that they can accomplish anything they want and that they are unstoppable and should remain confident in all their ventures. The aspiring superstar revealed that she is working to release a few other singles this year.
Last November, RAP Anna, was featured in the music video ‘Beautiful Guyana’ alongside her father. Her mother, Lisa told this publication, that ever since that exposure, her daughter decided to venture off into her own music. Meanwhile, when asked about his daughter’s musical path, Mr. Azeez said that he is beyond proud, and hopes that she keeps up the brilliant work. Outside of rapping, the upcoming artiste also enjoys vlogging and posting videos on YouTube. With the release of her new single, RAP Anna has already received a lot of positive feedback from family and friends. She calls the experience “amazing so far”.
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Sunday July 25, 2021
Dead turtles and waves of plastic show Sri Lankan ship disaster’s deep ramifications For almost two weeks, a thick, black smudge stained the sky off Sri Lanka’s western coast — smoke from a burning container ship nine nautical miles out to sea. The Singapore-flagged X-Press Pearl caught fire on May 20 en route to Colombo carrying 350 metric tons of oil in its tanks and at least 81 containers of “dangerous goods,” including nitric acid — a highly toxic chemical used to make fertilizers.
expected to disperse throughout the Indian Ocean. Fishing communities have been heavily impacted, and locals fear it will be take years for the island to recover from what environmentalists have called the worst disaster in Sri Lanka’s history. Sri Lanka is a tourist hotspot. Its unspoiled beaches and turquoise waters not only attract tourists, they are home to abundant sea life, including 28 species of
As the Sri Lankan navy and coast guard teams fought to douse the flames, the inferno tore through the ship’s cargo, releasing a cocktail of hazardous chemicals into the air and sea, prompting authorities to issue a toxic rain alert, and compounding fears of an oil spill. The fire released 80 tons of plastic pellets — raw materials used to make plastic products — into the ocean, blanketing beaches along Sri Lanka’s western coast. The environmental impact was immediately clear. Plastic pellets became lodged in fish’s gills and mouths. And dozens of rare sea turtles washed up on Sri Lanka’s beaches, some with what appeared to be scorch marks on their shells. Fish, dolphins and even a whale were found dead. As of late June, about 200 carcasses had been counted. Two months on, billions of plastic particles have washed up on nearly every shore of the island and are
marine mammals, such as blue whales and five species of endangered nesting turtles. It is not unusual for marine animals to wash ashore at this time of year, after becoming entangled in fishing nets or simply victims of the rough monsoon seas. While no records were kept of how many dead animals washed ashore in previous y e a r s , l o c a l environmentalists say this time is different. “We are seeing this exponential increase of marine deaths, including dolphins, turtles. What is noticeable is the exponential increase started soon after this accident,” said Don Muditha Katuwawala, coordinator for Sri Lankan marine conservation group Pearl Protectors. “We are seeing 30 to 40 cases reported daily.” Thushan Kapurusinghe, a turtle conservationist with 28 years’ experience who helped establish Sri Lanka’s first marine turtle sanctuary, believes the deaths were caused by the ship disaster.
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 25, 2021
Afghanistan curfew imposed as Taliban militants advance The Afghan government imposed a curfew across almost all of the country on Saturday in an attempt to stop the Taliban from invading cities. Aside from the capital Kabul and two other provinces, no movement will be allowed between 22:00 and 04:00. Fighting between the Ta l i b a n a n d A f g h a n government forces has escalated over the past two months as international troops withdraw from the country. The militant group is estimated to have captured up to half of all territory. It has moved swiftly in the wake of the US withdrawal, retaking border crossings and other territory in rural areas. The Taliban - a fundamentalist Islamist militia who were pushed out of power by the US invasion nearly 20 years ago - has also seized key roads as it seeks to cut off supply routes. Its fighters have been closing in on a number of major cities, but have not yet been able to capture one. “To curb violence and limit the Taliban movements a night curfew has been imposed in 31 provinces,” the interior ministry said in a statement, adding that Kabul, Panjshir and Nangarhar were exempt.
As the Taliban continues to advance, fierce clashes have taken place this week on the outskirts of the city of Kandahar. In response, the US launched airstrikes against militant positions in the area on Thursday. But with US operations in Afghanistan officially due to end on 31 August, there are concerns about the months ahead. US-led forces ousted the Taliban from power in Afghanistan in October 2001. The group had been harbouring Osama Bin Laden and other al-Qaeda figures linked to the 11 September attacks on the US. President Biden has said the American pull-out is justified as US forces have made sure Afghanistan cannot again become a base for foreign jihadists to plot against the West. Earlier this month, American troops quietly departed from Bagram airfield, a sprawling base that was the centre of US operations in Afghanistan and once held tens of thousands of troops.Some US intelligence analysts fear the Taliban could seize control of the country within six months, according to an assessment distributed to officials in June.
Govt. looking for investor... From page 8 based on how their plans align with the timeframes stipulated, and the lowest economic costs including life-cycle costs. The submissions would have to include estimated project costs, detailing all capital costs, financing costs, supervision costs, development costs, and all other costs to date of commissioning/commercial operations. The Office of the Prime Minister said that interested parties should review and comment on all project documents and technical studies generally available at the end of 2015. With many questions about whether this project would work, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance for Change (AFC) had combined forces in Parliament to oppose it, following the 2011 general election. After the two parties formed a coalition and won the 2015 general election, the project did not stand a chance. The PPP/C campaigned with the revival of the Amaila Falls project as a manifesto promise, and is now looking
to fast-track it. “The GoG desires start of construction by second half of 2022, with project c o m p l e t i o n a n d commissioning by end of 2025,” the notice states. This is similar to the Government’s plan for the gas-to-shore project, which is intended for construction from 2022, with completion and commissioning in 2024. The PPP/C Government has not sufficiently responded to concerns raised by civil society and the media about the gas-to-shore project, much less the Amaila Falls project. The public notice about Amaila states “GPL’s current Development and Expansion (D&E) Plan for 2021 to 2025, projects total capacity required in 2025 as 465 MW and energy of 2,900 GWH. The GOG proposes an energy mix that will utilize both natural gas, Heavy Fuel Oil, and renewables (hydro, wind, solar).” With the gas-to-shore and Amaila projects being the main sources of power, the government said that other renewable sources and heavy fuel oil will make up the balance or serve as backup.
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Sunday July 25, 2021
Kaieteur News Anti-vaccine demonstrators shout slogans during a protest against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccinations in Athens, Greece.
Thousands protest amid global anger against COVID restrictions Tens of thousands of people across several countries, including France and Italy, have protested against anti-COVID measures, with the French police using tear gas and water cannon to disperse protesters in the capital Paris. In France, an estimated 160,000 took to the streets in nationwide protests against President Emmanuel Macron’s health pass that will drastically curtail access to restaurants and public spaces for unvaccinated people. “Freedom, freedom”, chanted demonstrators in France, carrying placards denouncing “Macron, Ty r a n t ” , “ B i g P h a r m a shackles freedom” or saying “No to the pass of shame”. A similar scheme, called “green pass”, has sparked angry demonstrations across Italy. People in Rome, Naples and Turin chanted “freedom” and “down with the dictatorship” over plans for the so-called “green pass”. The certificate will be needed from early next month to eat in restaurants and visit
an unauthorised march in Sydney, Australia’s largest city. Organisers had dubbed the protest a “freedom” rally. Attendees carried signs and banners reading “Wake up Australia” and “Drain the Swamp”. Heidi Larson, a professor of anthropology, risk and decision science at the department of infectious disease epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, told Al Jazeera that the health pass “makes a lot of sense”. “And ironically for those who want their freedoms, the vaccine can allow different freedoms,” she said. “When you think about it, the options to this pass is that we close restaurants, we stop large gatherings. We have to give somewhere if we want to get ahead of this virus,” Larson said. Gabriel Scally, a visiting professor of public health at the University of Bristol, told Al Jazeera that there was nothing new to the opposition to the pandemic measures. “I think these rallies are
cinemas among other indoor activities. Many people gathered without wearing masks – but the turnout was lower than expected. Thousands of people have also protested in London, against what they describe as an erosion of their civil liberties. Demonstrators say the UK government’s track and trace app is limiting their movements, with more than 600,000 told to self-isolate in one week alone this month. The protests come a week after most Coronavirus restrictions in England were lifted. E a r l i e r, d o z e n s o f protesters were arrested after
relatively small. All the way through the pandemic, we have seen small groups of people who have taken to the streets to express their opposition to various things,” he said. “Some believe that the virus does not exist, that COVID-19 doesn’t exist. Some think that it’s a conspiracy from all sorts of people, including Bill Gates… “It isn’t anything new. There has been opposition to vaccines in history. It’s new and people are dealing with various issues. There are always a small group of people who are opposed.”
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 25, 2021
The Court Journal By Renay Sambach
V
ery often lawsuits are filed in the High Court against social commentary persons, politicians and media entities for defamation, libel or slander. This article focuses on the legalities of the defamation, libel and slander and other aspects of the charge. In most cases, people confuse the three due to the fact they fall in the area of law that deals with false statements, which harm a person’s reputation. Defamation is the oral or written communication of a false statement about another that unjustly harms their reputation and usually constitutes a tort or crime. It should be noted that libel and slander are types of defamatory statements. Libel is a defamatory statement that is written. Slander is a defamatory statement that is oral. LAWS OF GUYANA In Guyana, there is the Defamation Act. The Act outlines the different aspects of DEFAMATION. Section 4 outlines, “In any action for slander in respect of words calculated to disparage the plaintiff in any office, profession, calling, trade or business held or carried on by him at the time of the publication, it shall not be necessary to allege or prove special damage, whether or not the words are spoken of the plaintiff in the way of his office, profession, calling, trade or business.” Section 5(1) , “In an action for slander of title, slander of goods or other malicious falsehood, it shall
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Some facts about defamation and related offences
not be necessary to allege or prove special damage - (a) if the words upon which the action is founded are calculated to cause pecuniary damage to the plaintiff and are published in writing or other permanent form;” or “(b) If the said words are calculated to cause pecuniary damage to the plaintiff in respect of any office, profession, calling, trade or business held or carried on by him at the time of the publication.” “(2) Section 3 shall apply for the purposes of this section as it applies for the purposes of the law of libel and slander.” S e c t i o n 6 , “ Wo r d s spoken and published which impute unchastity or adultery to any person shall not require special damage to render them actionable: Provided always, that in any action for words spoken and made actionable by this section, a plaintiff shall not recover more costs than damages, unless the judge certifies that there was reasonable ground for bringing the action.” The law further stipulates, “In any action for libel or slander the defendant (after notice in writing of his intention to do so, duly given to the plaintiff at the time of filing or delivering the plea in that action) may give in evidence in mitigation of damages that he made or offered an apology to the plaintiff for the libel or slander before the commencement of the action, or as soon afterwards as he had an opportunity of doing so, if the action has been commenced before there was an opportunity of making or offering.” COURT STORIES
Former Minister of Communities (Housing), Annette Ferguson.
Former President, David Granger
Winston Brassington, former Executive Director of NICIL. Earlier this year a default judgment, resulted in Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, being ordered to pay $20 Million in damages to former Junior Minister of Communities (Housing), Annette Ferguson, for defamation. The judgment was made by High Court Judge, Justice, Sandra Kurtzious. According to reports, last year before demitting office, the Junior Minister filed a lawsuit against Jagdeo and the Guyana Times Newspaper claiming in excess of $20M in damages for libel. Apart from $20 Million in damages, Jagdeo was also ordered to pay $75,000 in court costs to Ferguson. The default judgment reportedly occurred after Jagdeo failed to file a defence against the libel suit within the required time provided for under Part 12:01 (2) (d) of the Civil Procedure Rules of the Supreme Court of
Judicature. In another story, former President David Granger, filed a libel lawsuit claiming a total of $2,650,000,000 from local communications consultant, Kit Nascimento, and a list of media houses including the Kaieteur News, Stabroek News and Guyana Times. In addition, the lawsuit lists Editor-in-Chief of Guyana Times, Tusika Martin; Kaieteur News owner, Glenn Lall, and Kaieteur News’ Editor-inChief, Sharmain Grainger; and Stabroek News’ Editorin-Chief, Anand Persaud, as respondents. It was reported that the Statement of Claim (SoC) filed by attorney Roysdale Forde, SC, the former Headof-State accuse d t h e n e w s p a p e r s o f publishing defamatory information about him, which were contained in letters and opinion pieces written by Kit Nascimento in 2020.
Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo
Local Communication Consultant, Kit Nascimento. As a result, Granger made 53 claims for damages of worth of G$50 Million for each instance that the information was published, totalling G$2,650,000,000. In February 2021, the High Court awarded Wi n s t o n B r a s s i n g t o n , former Executive Director of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), in excess of $20M in lawsuit against Kaieteur News. The case is related to a series of lawsuits filed by the former NICIL Head over the “Dem Boys Seh” articles, which he claims, contained offensive and defamatory content against him. According to the claim, the reference in the article to “that fat crook Brazzy” in the satirical column of the newspaper meant and was understood to mean that the newspaper and its editor sought to convey that he, as NICIL’s head was “dishonest, had been guilty of criminal activity and
corrupt practices” in the conduct of his work. The projects included the award of a road construction contract for US$18M in the first phase of the Amaila Falls Hydro Project, the Pradoville Two Housing Project, East Coast Demerara, and the sale of the state-owned Sanata Textile Complex.Kaieteur News, its publisher, Glenn Lall, and its former Editor-in-Chief, Adam Harris, were all listed as defendants in the matter. I n t h a t m a t t e r, i n response to the lawsuit, the defendants through their lawyer, Nigel Hughes, had pleaded justification and fair comment. However, in the ruling delivered electronically by Justice, Navindra Singh, noted that Lall and Harris insisted on asserting the truth of the libel by pleading a defence of justification and of fair comment despite there being no factual basis for such a defence.
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A King’s Painting Once upon a time, there was a Kingdom. The king there only had one leg and one eye, but he was very intelligent and kind. Everyone in his kingdom lived a happy and a healthy life because of their king. One day the king was walking through the palace hallway and saw the portraits of his ancestors. He thought that one day his children will walk in the same hallway and remember all the ancestors through these portraits. But the king did not have his portrait painted. Due to his physical disabilities, he wasn’t sure how his painting would turn out. So he invited many famous painters from his and other kingdoms to the court. The king then announced that he wants a beautiful portrait made of himself to be placed in the palace. Any painter who can carry out this should come forward. He will be rewarded based on how the painting turns up.
All of the painters began to think that the king only has one leg and one eye. How can his picture be made very beautiful? It is not possible and if the picture does not turn out to look beautiful then the king will get angry and punish them. So, one by one, all started to make excuses and politely declined to make a painting of the king. But suddenly one painter raised his hand and said that I will make a very beautiful portrait of you which you will surely like. The king became happy hearing that and other painters got curious. The king gave him the permission and the painter started drawing the portrait. He then filled the drawing with paints. Finally, after taking a long time, he said that the portrait was ready! All of the courtiers, other painters were curious and nervous thinking, How can the painter make the king’s
portrait beautiful because the king is physically disabled? What if the king didn’t like the painting and gets angry? But when the painter presented the portrait, everyone in the court, including the king, left stunned. The painter made a portrait in which the king was sitting on the horse, on the one-leg side, holding his bow and aiming the arrow with his one eye closed. The king was very pleased to see that the painter has made a beautiful portrait by cleverly hiding the king’s disabilities. The King gave him a great reward. Moral: We should always think positive of others and ignore their deficiencies. We should learn to focus on the good things instead of trying to hide weaknesses. If we think and approach positively even in a negative situation, then we will be able to solve our problems more efficiently.
Sunday July 25, 2021
Junior page
DIY FEATHER ARTWORK BY AMY WEIR
STEP 1 Following the directions in the Sun Sensitive Papers, layout your pattern before taking the paper outside and into the sunshine. The day I created these was slightly breezy, so I pinned my paper down. I used pipe cleaners and the bulk feathers to create my designs. Tip: Keep your paper in the sun for up to two minutes (depending on the sun intensity) and then come indoors Submerge the paper in clean water for one minute. Set paper aside and allow tofully dry. STEP 2 While my feather paper designs were drying, I got started on adding some color to my picture frames. I taped off the frames and used pastel acrylic paint color. STEP 3
Once my paper was dry and ready to put in the frame, it was time to cut them down to size. A simple trick for doing this, is removing the glass from your picture frame and tracing it onto your paper. This helps so you can center your feather art. Next, just follow your markings and cut out the artwork. STEP 4 Assemble the artwork in your frames and you are ready to display!
H
IT NW
TRY E O P
FU
Ripple Effect The heavy lines indicate areas called cages. Fill each cage with unique digits, counting up from 1. For example, a 1-cell cage must contain the number 1, a 2-cell cage contains 1 and 2, a 5-cell cage contains 1 through 5,and so on. These numbers may appear in any order within the cage. If two identical numbers appear in the same row or column, at least that many cells must separate them. For example, if two 3s appear in the samecolumn, they must be separated by at least three other cells that do not contain 3.
Keep Safe by Uncle Roy When we are away from those we trust, Whether in the park or street, We should always try to ensure We are as safe as can be. Walk in the light when it is dark, You should not go out alone; Do not idle around strange places, And never move far from home. Always obey traffic signs and rules, Keep to the sidewalk on your way, Only cross a street when it is safe, And look and listen all the way
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 25, 2021
TEEN TIME Build your Sense of
Security by following the set rules or laws When you try to respect and follow the rules in each area in which you interact, at home, at school, and in the wider community, you will find that your sense of security will be developed as a result. Also, when you get the opportunity to do your part to formulate them, you will be more in touch with them, and be more willing to follow them. It would be a good thing then if you point this out to your parents, teachers, and any others in authority, to give you this opportunity the next time rules are to be made. Of course, you have to do so in a respectful manner, and not make any harsh demands on those who are ultimately responsible for your security. In a fair society, citizens get this opportunity through the leaders they elect in the political parties at regular intervals to make their voices heard in this
effort. Try to maintain a sense of trust in your parents, teachers, and others on whom you depend. This feeling enables you to behave without fear or anxiety. Rely on them to act in a consistent manner, and to base their actions on what is right and fair. Your sense of security will also depend on the effort to get rid of the fears which you experience, and which tend to keep you from acting in a socially responsible manner. Some of these fears would be real, but many times p e o p l e develop fears of things whi ch
may not exist, or which may be exaggerated. You will need to search your mind and examine these fears and make efforts to get rid of them. The things that frighten us may exist at school, at home, with other people, and even at some events in which you have to play a part. The way to deal with
all fears is to consciously examine them with a view to dealing with them either by yourself, if you feel confident to do so, or by invoking the help of qualified persons to help in this process. Any effort you make towards this will be duly rewarded by the sane of safety which you will develop.
Jigsaw Sudoku
Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column, and eachjigsaw shape contain all of the digits 1 thru 9.
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POETS’ CORNER
A Life of Service A life of service really is a thing that you should treasure, For you will make a difference to this world that lasts forever; For those who are around, someone whose life has good intent Will always and forever be affected by their scent. While you may humbly fail to see the permeating heat That comes from all your kindness to the people that you meet, Yet others do appreciate the blessings that you bring; It adds a glow to life, just as the sunshine does in spring. You may not ever notice it, you may not ever know, The beauty of your life’s work, when humbly put on show;. So, never feel resentment, guard your heart as if it’s gold; Just wear the belt of kindness, and let God’s truth unfold. Don’t rely on gratitude for all the things you do, But ask the Lord for grace to help you see them through; Enjoy your special role and know the privilege is yours: God chooses workers carefully to compliment His cause. Be assured that many of the seeds you sow will root, And in your absence will go on to flourish and bear fruit, So live in humble servitude, content that God above Is watching with a father’s pride to shower you with love.
When you follow the laws conscientiously, you will feel safe and secure in moving forward in life.
Solutions to last week’s
Sudoku
Binox
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How to get thicker hair Thinning hair could be caused by: • natural aging • genetics • poor nutrition • overuse of commercial hair products • reactions or allergies to chemicals or substances • illness 1. Eggs Share on PinterestAn egg treatment may help to make hair look thicker. Eggs are high in protein, which is essential for the body to build strong, thick hair. When used regularly, an egg treatment may help thicken and strengthen a person’s hair. To use an egg treatment: • beat 1 or 2 eggs together • apply the eggs to the scalp and damp hair • leave the eggs on the scalp for about 30 minutes • wash hair thoroughly with warm water and mild shampoo Alternately, combine the eggs with oil and water. To use this method: • mix egg yolks, 1 tablespoon (tbsp) olive oil, and 2 tbsp of water • apply the mixture to the scalp and dry hair • leave for 15 minutes • rinse out with warm water and a mild shampoo Using an egg treatment once or twice a week for several weeks might help strengthen the hair. 2. Olive oil Olive oil is rich in omega3 acids and other nutrients that are essential for overall health, including hair health. When applied directly to the scalp and hair, olive oil helps promote thicker hair. Olive oil also has the added benefit of softening the hair and relieving dry scalp. To use olive oil: • heat the oil to body temperature • massage the warm oil into the scalp and hair • leave in hair for about 30 to 45 minutes • rinse out the olive oil with mild shampoo Some people add honey to the olive oil and others suggest leaving the olive oil on overnight using a shower cap to cover the hair. 3. Proper nutrition A nutritious diet that contains healthful fats, protein, and a range of vitamins can help with thinning or thin hairTrusted Source. In fact, thin hair can be a sign that a person is not getting enough nutrients. To help remedy this, people with thin hair should include some of the following nutrient-rich foods in their diets: • salmon, which is high in protein and fatty acids • eggs, which contain protein, omega3, and iron • walnuts, almonds, and other nuts, which are sources of fatty acids • greek yogurt, which is a source of protein • green, black, pinto, and other beans, which contain protein A person should look to add 1 or 2 servings of any of the above foods to their daily diet. Even adding just 3 or 4 servings a week can contribute to improved hair health. 4. Orange puree The vitamin C, pectin, and acid in oranges can help a person’s hair in a few different ways. The vitamins and nutrients may improve hair’s natural luster, which makes the hair appear thicker. 5. Aloe gel Many people believe that the Aloe vera plant is helpful for the skin, scalp, and hair. Applying aloe oil directly to the hair and scalp may help strengthen the hair and thicken it over time. Several commercial products that contain aloe as an active ingredient are readily available. These products often take the form of gels and creams that are applied directly to the scalp and hair. 6. Avocado Share on PinterestAn avocado rub will also include olive oil. Avocado is rich in vitamin E, and many people believe it to be a good moisturizer. Make a simple avocado rub and apply it twice a week. To make an avocado rub: • combine the fruit of 1 avocado with 1 tbsp olive oil • apply the mixture to hair and scalp • let it sit for about 30 minutes • rinse thoroughly with mild shampoo
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 25, 2021
Sunday July 25, 2021
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Kaieteur News
A transformed public sector is the foundation of good governance Dear Editor, For the next 30 years in Guyana, it is expected that a more complex economy and society will be created. However, although there will be unprecedented opportunities, it is important for all of us to understand that, at any given time, no country has ever had sufficient physical and human resources to meet the unlimited needs and wants of its population. Also, every successful country recognises that there are annual limits to how much and how fast its public sector and its economy can efficiently and effectively absorb the investment of public funds. Aware of these economic principles, the present PPP/C government has proposed balanced pro-poor and probusiness “implementable policies” to meet the basic needs of “every single Guyanese”. However, as the famous Scottish poet, Robert Burns, observed, “The best laid plans of mice and men can go wrong”. Therefore, there is no automatic guarantee that the PPP/C’s policies will be successfully implemented. International best practices in complex economies and societies confirm that successful implementation of good governance policies has to be based on the transformation of public sector systems and institutions. This means that Guyana’s central, regional and local governments have to urgently begin making fundamental changes in the governance systems of public institutions, in collaboration with civil society, especially the trade unions that represent public sector employees. The most challenging question for the PPP/C government is how it will establish a new relationship of mutual respect with the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU). Both government and the GPSU are equally responsible for moving beyond the 2020 General and Regional Elections. Without a transformed public sector, the Guyanese nation will not be able to successfully overcome major threats, such as climate change (rising sea and river levels, floods, droughts and the loss of mangroves); oil dependency (‘Dutch Disease’) with all its
negative political, financial, economic and social consequences; future health pandemics; environmental degradation of land and marine resources; unbalanced growth in urban areas; and the continuing ‘brain drain’ of professionals, skilled workers, farmers and university students. The PPP/C government needs more efficient and effective public institutions to achieve its “implementable” economic and social policies such as:{a} building a diversified economy with equal economic opportunities in all ethnic communities and regions; {b} improving the electricity and water utilities; {c} enforcing local content policies in the new oil and gas sector; {d} supporting the private sector to increase exports; {e} distributing all public goods and services equally and fairly, regardless of ethnicity, region, class, gender, age and disability; {f} stopping violence against women and children; {g} reducing the high death rates in rural areas of infants and women giving birth; and {h} ending suicides and the stunted growth of children in the hinterland regions. Reforms in the public sector are not new. Over the last 35 years, the Ministry of Finance, the Guyana Revenue Authority and the Office of the Auditor-General were modernized. Notable improvements were made in strategic planning, and in the financial management of government revenues, expenditures and public infrastructural projects. Tendering for public goods and services was enhanced. Bipartisan parliamentary oversight of government revenues and expenditures was strengthened. Today, there are many female and male professional public servants who go “above and beyond the call of duty” to provide high quality services. They are incorruptible, humble, fair, balanced, inclusive and helpful. Here are a few examples. Public officials in the Ministry of Housing and the Central Housing and Planning Authority have reduced the processing times for the allocation of house lots and for construction permits and, they are working with communities and private
businesses to construct homes for low-income earners and young professionals. At the Office of the General Registrar, there are new certified copies of Birth, Death and Marriage Certificates. During the recent massive floods, ministers and officials from ministries, agencies, the Joint Services, Regional Democratic Councils and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils visited communities to provide immediate relief and ongoing support. However, in many institutions, there continues to be systemic weaknesses and gaps in accountability, transparency, accessibility and inclusiveness such as: corruption and conflicts of interest; non-enforcement of the findings of the Office of the Auditor General and Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee; complicated rules, regulations and procedures; and the growing gap in status and benefits between ‘contracted’ staff and employees on the ‘establishment’. In terms of infrastructural projects, the public sector has successfully facilitated and overseen the construction of schools, hospitals, highways, technical institutes, new electricity plants at Kingston and Vreed-en-Hoop , and the new Hope Drainage Canal. On the other hand, there are some notable examples of poor planning and wasteful spending on “transformational projects” that did not produce ‘value for money’ such as: the GUY$4.3 billion laptop distribution project; the GUY$4 billion non-existent fibre-optic cable from northern Brazil to the Atlantic Coast; the GUY$48 billion Skeldon Factory; the GUY$31 billion expanded Cheddi Jagan International Airport; the GUY$3 billion road to Amaila Falls; and the GUY$1 billion D’Urban Park Stadium. Furthermore, there have been many occasions when communities every year suffer flood damage because drainage and irrigation facilities, roads and bridges are poorly constructed. Central officials, engineers, contractors and local authorities failed to respect a community’s knowledge of the seasonal flows and drainage patterns of rivers and swamps. They also
ignored the experiences of local residents in preserving mangroves and natural storage areas for heavy rainfall. Now, the new PPP/C government has proposed a huge list of national, regional and local projects. They include the construction of the new GUY$25 billion Demerara Bridge, the GUY$246 billion Gas to Shore project, the GUY$31 billion Linden to Mabura Road, the dredging of the Demerara River Channel, the Corentyne Bridge, the Wismar Bridge, the Kurupukari Bridge, new
ferry stellings, solar farms, hydro-electric plants, and agricultural and manufacturing Corridors of Development with business incubators and agroprocessing facilities. International experience shows that, across all countries, at least 14 percent of infrastructural projects fail, according to the Project Management Institute (PMI) of the USA. For Guyana’s projects to successfully achieve ‘value for money’, the PMI has outlined some best practices such as: [1] there has to be
continuous two-way communication and consultation with all stakeholders especially the general public and communities, throughout the phases of a project; and [2] the exact order, timelines and ranking of projects have to be publicly reviewed so that public sector institutions would not be overwhelmed and so that every year the public sector and the economy could efficiently and effectively absorb the public investments. Yours Sincerely, Geoff Da Silva
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Sunday July 25, 2021
Kaieteur News
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(Reuters) - The Vatican released information on its real estate holdings for the first time yesterday, revealing it owns more than 5,000 properties as part of its most detailed financial disclosures ever. The information was contained in two documents, a consolidated financial statement for 2020 for the Holy See and the first-ever public budget for the Administration of the Patrimony of the Holy See (APSA). APSA, a sort of general VACANCY One experience hair dresser.Contact Magic Touch Salon.95 Middleroad Georgetown.Tel:682-9463/ 225-6492. Puri and roti maker,Cooks/ GrillChef,Counter Servers,Kitchen assistants.Apply at Beacon Cafe,225-9409. Technical Assistant and Pitmenforinterior location.Applicants must be experienced.Call:231-2250. Porter,Prep(Meat/ Ve g e t a b l e ) , C o u n t e r S t a f f , K i t c h e n Assistant.Apply:Bettencourt's Diner,call for information:231-1368/223-1938. Are you a graduate, 23 years and older, looking for acareer?Attractive benefits.Call 679-2497.
accounting office, manages real estate and investments, pays salaries, and acts as a purchasing office and human resources department. Between the two documents - each with an unprecedented number of pie charts, graphs and maps - and two explanatory i n t e r v i e w s , t h e Va t i c a n issued more than 50 pages of financial material. The 30-page APSA budget showed that it owns 4,051 properties in Italy and about 1,120 abroad, not including its embassies around the world. Only about 14% of its
Italian properties were rented at market rates, while the others were rented at cut rates, many to Church employees. About 40% were institutional buildings such as schools, convents and hospitals. The documentation showed that APSA owns properties as investments in upscale areas of London, Geneva, Lausanne and Paris. One building, in London’s smart South Kensington district, led to enormous losses after it was purchased by the Vatican’s Secretariat of State as an investment in 2014.
On Tuesday, the trial of 10 people in connection with its purchase, including a prominent cardinal, starts in the Vatican. They are charged with financial crimes including embezzlement, money laundering, fraud, extortion and abuse of office. Last year, Pope Francis stripped the Secretariat of State of control over its funds, transferring them to APSA and with oversight by the SPE. A separate consolidated financial statement for the Holy See issued yesterday showed a 64.8 million euro deficit in 2020, down from a 79.2 million deficit in 2019.
...Over fifteen locals awarded with honourary From page 54 Political Work, Former Minister of Housing, Annette Ferguson was bestowed with Honours for service in Public Administration, Former Minister of Public Service and People Progressive Party Civic (PPP/ C) former Member of Parliament, Dr. Jennifer Westford was given an Order of Minister Statesman for her work in Politics. Former Agriculture Minister, and current Foreign Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and International Cooperation, Robert Persaud, Permanent Secretary, of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ambassador, Elisabeth Harper, Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine,
and Former Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally were all given similar Honours in absentia. The other awardees included Dawn Nalini Blackman, Shelana CurtisJoseph, Alexis Ward, Juanita Meusa, Debbie-Ann Fraser, Debra Glynn, Simone Kyte-McClintock, Erskine Shem, Ronald Cameron, Bevaughn Joseph, Vanrick Beresford, Rodwell Alphonso Porter and Orlando Alvado Vasquez. In his remarks to the gathering, Dr. Phinn said that the award is to help empower Christian leaders be recognised for their work, across the world. He explained that with the recognition from the United
Nations, the Ministry has formed a seminary and University t h a t t r a i n s Christian leaders, and gives out annual awards including Honorary Doctorates for those in leadership position within and beyond the borders of the church. Dr. Phinn explained that “With this chaplaincy licence, you can have the same protection that is offered to organizations like the Red Cross, so that when you venture in various parts of the world to do your work in these areas of conflict and of national disaster, you can benefit from the same protection as those organizations have under the United Nations.”
Sunday July 25, 2021
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Kaieteur News
...Nicholas Pooran and Jason Holder earn From page 67 ripped past Ashton Turner’s edge to take middle stump. At that point a very early finishing looking a possibility. Starc and Matthew Wade started a rebuild with a stand of 51 which was broken by Hayden Walsh Jr who had Starc lbw sweeping, via the DRS, having survived the same mode of dismissal on 7 when the review system overturned the decision. On both occasions the umpire was Joel Wilson on a day he had four decisions overturned. Wade had never found fluency but had little choice but to try and bat through the innings. However, the revival then came from the unlikely pairing of Zampa and Agar in a stand of 59 in seven overs
which included Agar twice clearing the rope as West Indies became a little ragged in the closing stages until things ended in consecutive deliveries. It did not take long for a target of 188 to look much more challenging on a challenge surface. Starc was again on-song in his first spell as he pinned Evin Lewis lbw having seen the opener saved from a caught behind in the opening over - and produced another pearler for his collection to extract Darren Bravo’s off stump. Spin then made an impact as Zampa caused plenty of problems with his googly, firstly removing Jason Mohammed with some help from the pad and then going right through Kieron Pollard.
Sheldon Cottrell took 2-29
Between those wickets Turner, a part-time offspinner, struck with his second delivery in ODIs when Shai Hope, who had played superbly against Starc, ran past one that slid on to take off stump. While that was a smart piece of captaincy by Carey
Sunday July 25, 2021 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Mix your reality with a bit of fantasy today, Aries. Kick back for a while and rest. Try to spend time meditating and clearing your head of daily worries. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Let yourself go into creative mode today, Taurus. Drift into a whole other world. Escape your present reality and explore your fantasies through artistic endeavors. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Things are slipping into place quite nicely for you, . Your persuasive manner and gentle nudges are enough to get people where you want them. Control is all yours if you want it. CANCER (June 21–July 22) When faced with ten entrees on a menu, it may be hard for you to choose just one. Order two or more, Cancer. Don't let indecisiveness hinder you. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Your dreams will never come true unless you believe in and act on them, Leo. No one else is going to do it for you. Unless you have a fairy godmother, you need to take matters into your own hands. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) If people start to hassle you today or give you a hard time about your appearance, pay them no mind, Virgo. You have the right to live your life any way you want.Be the person you want to be.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Reach for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, Libra. It's closer than you think. Indeed, your dreams are completely within your reach. There are forces at work today helping you to achieve your goals. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today is your day to dream big, Scorpio. Think about what you want most out of life. Aim at the stars. There's no limit to how far you can go. Your only limitation is your imagination. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Expand your mind to its furthest reaches today, Sagittarius. There's an incredible opportunity opening up in which you can make great strides in a creative realm. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Your mind may seem rather cloudy today, Capricorn, but don't let this hinder you. In fact, you can use this dreamy feeling to your advantage. Try to bring more magic into your life. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) This is an excellent day for you, Aquarius, in which your emotions will be strong. Trust that your instincts are serving you well, better than any other sign. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Things may get a bit confusing today, Pisces. Don't feel like you need to make sense of it all. In fact, that may be impossible. Whatever you do, make sure you're being yourself.
it also highlighted one of Australia’s problems as they lacked the second frontline spinner which West Indies possessed. Alongside the absence of Hazlewood, it left a lot on the shoulders of Starc and Zampa who couldn’t conjure another breakthrough in time - although Zampa should have done when Pooran was shelled with 65 still needed. In the over following that miss, Holder pulled debutant Riley Meredith for six over deep square leg which saw McDermott clatter into the boundary borders as he tried to reach the catch and hobble away. The rest of the chase was not without the occasional nervy moments particularly when Starc had Holder lbw with 23 needed. Pooran, who earlier became the third fastest West Indies men’s batter to 1000 ODI runs, went to 49 with a six off Turner and brought up fifty when Wade could not hold a top edge at slip which he was moving the wrong way for. There was then a sigh of relief when Starc finished his 10 overs. West Indies 191 for 6 (Pooran 59*, Holder 52, Starc 3-26) beat Australia 187 (W Agar 41, Hosein 3-30) by 4 wickets.
...Edghill’s Olympics From page 69 together to support me at a very historic moment in our history and I hope to have your continued support. Thank you so much for everything!” Upcoming events for Guyanese athletes are as follows. In swimming, Andrew Fowler will dive into the pool at 06:00hrs local time on Tuesday, in Heat 2 of the Men’s 100m Freestyle. Aleka Persaud; Guyana’s youngest ever Olympian, will compete on July 30 at 06:25hrs local time in Heat 5 of the women’s 50m Freestyle. The athletes will take to the track on Thursday when Jasmine Abrams runs the 100m preliminary round that runs off at 22:40hrs.
...U.S., Jamaica face each From page 66 biggest matchup between the two sides came in the 2017 Gold Cup final, a tightly-contested 2-1 victory for the United States that saw the side lift its sixth Gold Cup title. Both sides traded goals. The U.S. would get on the scoresheet first in the 45th minute, thanks to Jozy Altidore, while Je-Vaughn Watson equalized in the 50th minute. It would take a dramatic game-winner by Jordan Morris in the 89th minute to seal the result. Jamaica would have its one breakthrough win over the U.S. in 2015, stunning the Yanks to book a ticket to the Gold Cup Final. The Caribbean nation took a 2-0 lead in the first 35 minutes behind goals from Darren Mattocks and Giles Barnes. Michael Bradley would score the lone goal for the U.S. right before halftime. The 2-1 result awarded Ja-
maica its first appearance in a Gold Cup final. The last time the USA and Jamaica met in the quarterfinal stage came in the 2011 edition. Jermaine Jones and Clint Dempsey gave the U.S. 2-0 win in Washington, D.C. The two also met in the 2005 quarterfinals. Josh Wolff and DaMarcus Beasley helped the U.S. to a 3-1 victory over Jamaica as Ricardo Fuller provided the lone goal for the Reggae Boyz. Outside of the Gold Cup, the two teams also faced each other this year in a friendly, with the U.S. getting a 4-1 win. Sebastian Lletget, a current member of the Gold Cup team, scored twice in that friendly that took place on March 25 in Austria. With Jamaica in good form heading into this match, the U.S. might need to rely on some more brilliance from Lletget and his teammates tonight.
Kaieteur News
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Sunday July 25, 2021
Costa Rica, Canada meet for first time in knockout stage
Joe Joyce: British heavyweight moves a step closer to world title shot after stopping Carlos Takam The British heavyweight (left) left Takam struggling to stand at Wembley Arena on Saturday (yesterday).
Bryan Ruiz of Costa Rica (L) seeks for possession against Canada’s Samuel Piette at BBVA Stadium in Houston, Texas on July 17, 2017. (File (File photo) photo)
BBCsport - British heavyweight Joe Joyce stopped Carlos Takam at Wembley Arena to move a step closer to a world title shot. Joyce, 35, landed a series of shots in the sixth round as referee Steve Gray stepped in despite protests from Takam. “He’s a tough African lion so all credit to him. I had to take my opportunity when I saw it,” Joyce said. Joyce is now the WBO’s mandatory challenger to face the winner of September’s fight between Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk. The 2016 Olympic silver medallist had not fought since inflicting a first career defeat
on Daniel Dubois in November. However, Joyce now has an impressive record of 13 wins from 13 fights, with 12 coming by knockout, and will now hope to meet Joshua or Tyson Fury in an all-British title fight. “He’s the mandatory challenger. I think providing AJ wins and Fury wins they will fight first but then they will have to fight him,” promoter Frank Warren told BT Sport. On the stoppage that angered 40-year-old Takam, Warren added: “If you’re taking shots and not throwing them back the referee has no alternative, and he was not throwing shots back.”
...China and Zambia now shared a 4-4 From page 68 games were just as exciting with China and Zambia putting on a 4-4 thriller, while Brazil were held to an equally entertaining 3-3 draw against the Netherlands. There have been some exciting games in the other groups as well but Group F has proven to be the true e n t e r t a i n e r s o f a r. I n comparison, England’s group with Chile, Japan and Canada has been more tightly contested with eight goals in the opening four games. While the other group consisting of Sweden, Australia, New Zealand and the United States have produced 19 goals between them which would normally be seen as a high figure. Netherlands and Brazil top the group after Dominique Janssen’s 79th minute goal allowed the Dutch to take a share of the spoils. Vivianne Miedema gave the Dutch the early lead in the third minute but Debinha countered with an equalizer in the 16th minute for Brazil. The Netherlands went 2-1 up when Miedema
Arlington, Texas - Costa Rica and Canada both have their sights set on making a return to the Concacaf Gold Cup semifinals when they meet to decide one of the four spots today at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The two sides will lock up for their ninth overall Gold Cup meeting, but only their first encounter in the knockout stage. Canada has the edge in the tournament series with two wins to one and five draws. The previous three meetings have ended in stalemates. Their last meeting, also on Texas soil, was a 1-1 draw in Group A with Francisco Calvo and Alphonso Davies scoring in Houston. Costa Rica leads the all-time series against Canada with nine wins to four and nine draws. Celso Borges could reach
25 Gold Cup appearances if he plays in the quarterfinal. He is the player with the most appearances in the tournament for Costa Rica (24, 5 goals) and has two goals in 229 minutes played in the 2021 edition. Bryan Ruiz, will be another threat to the Canadians, as one of Costa Rica’s top players and the man responsible for the game-winner against Jamaica to secure first place in Group C. He has played four times against Canada at the Gold Cup and has yet to lose, forming part of a 1-0 victory in 2005. Joel Campbell holds the most shots, six, for the Central Americans in the current edition. He is responsible for three goals for Costa Rica, two scored and one assist. For Canada,
they are missing some key attacking pieces due to injury, so the likes of Tajon Buchanan will have to step up. The 22-year-old FW scored two goals for his country in the 2020 Concacaf Men’s Olympic Qualifying Championship, but is still looking for his first Gold Cup goal. Junior Hoilett has four goals in 10 all-time tournament appearances and was present during the last Gold Cup meeting between the two nations, the aforementioned 1-1 result in the 2017 group stage. Lucas Cavallini was also part of that 2017 meeting. The Canadian striker has five goals in 11 Gold Cup matches spanning over the past three editions. With so much at stake, there will be little margin for error when these sides kick off.
U.S., Jamaica face each other in another dramatic matchup Brazil and Netherlands players’ battle for a header. (AP Photo/Andre Penner) scored her sixth goal of the tournament, after previously putting four past Zambia. Brazil would then go ahead ahead after Marta tied the game from the penalty spot before Ludmila put her side in front after 68 minutes. Dominique Janssen’s 79th minute goal meant Netherlands will stay top of the group on goal difference. In the other game on Saturday, Wang Shuang and Barbra Banda stole the show for China and Zambia respectively. Wang put China ahead
inside six minutes before Rachael Kundanji put the team ranked 104th in the world level. China though went 3-1 ahead within 25 minutes when Wang scored a further two goals, before Banda scored a penalty shortly before half-time to make it 3-2 at the break. Banda scored in 47 and 69th minute to put Zambia ahead to make it two hattricks in successive games. Wang saved the day for China though to score her fourth goal in the final minutes to salvage a point.
Arlington, TX - The United States and Jamaica cross paths for a sixth time at the Concacaf Gold Cup when they meet in the quarterfinals stage on Sunday at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX. Historically speaking, the U.S. has been the better side in the matchup, beating Jamaica five times to the Reggae Boyz’s sole win. Their last meeting in the Gold Cup came just two years ago in the 2019 semifinals. Christian Pulisic had a brace and Weston McKennie scored for the Stars and Stripes while Shamar Nicholson, a current member of the Jamaica team, got on the scoresheet for the opposition. The (Continued on page 65)
Shaum Francis of Team Jamaica and Gyasi Zardes of USA in their last meeting in the 2019 Gold Cup semifinals at Nissan Stadium, in Nashville, Tennessee.
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Sunday July 25, 2021
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Nicholas Pooran and Jason Holder earn West Indies series-leveling victory ESPNcricinfo Nicholas Pooran and Jason Holder rescued West Indies from more top-order troubles to level the ODI series in Barbados last night in the match that was delayed by 48 hours after the Covid19 score in the home side’s camp. In the end it was Australia’s collapse that proved decisive when they crumbled to 45 for 6 as leftarm spinner Akeal Hosein claimed three wickets in six balls. The last four wickets turned the innings around by added 142 runs, which included a 59-run ninthwicket stand between Adam Zampa and Wes Agar, then when West Indies slipped to 72 for 5 - with Mitchell Starc again brilliant - there was the chance of a remarkable resurgence. However, Pooran and Holder played with excellent composure knowing that the required rate was never an issue. Pooran was given lives on 26 and 49, the first when Moises Henriques spilled a simple chance at mid-off, and Holder was reprieved by the DRS but it was a wellconstructed stand during which Holder brought up his first ODI fifty since the 2019 World Cup while Pooran was unbeaten to finish things off. Even though the toss remained from two days ago, West Indies had given permission for Australia to make a change to their XI with Agar replacing Josh
Jason Holder and Nicholas Pooran steadied West Indies. AFP
Akeal Hosein leaps in celebration after taking a wicket, he returned figures of 3-30 © AFP Hazlewood who had been managing a calf niggle and hadn’t been able to get the usual treatment due to two days of isolation while everyone in the bubble was retested. West Indies struck in the opening over when Ben McDermott nicked a wide delivery from Sheldon Cottrell second ball and after Josh Philippe had briefly shone he picked out deep square leg with a pull. Cottrell’s first spell had been just two overs as he left the field but his replacement, Holder, made a significant inroad when he produced an excellent delivery to take
Alzarri Joseph (left) took 3-39 © AFP
Mitchell Marsh’s outside edge. Then it was over to Hosein. There was no captain’s innings from Alex Carey this time as he was comprehensively beaten through the gate by a fantastic delivery that spun sharply from quite wide. Henriques’ disappointing tour continued when he edged a drive to slip, reward for Hosein throwing his line a touch wider to entice the shot. Two balls later he produced another gem, dropping a delivery on middle and leg which then (Continued on page 65)
IOC ordered to allow Olympic access to Russian weightlifting president after pulling it over doping violation YahooSports - Russian Weightlifting Federation president Maxim Agapitov will receive his accreditation for the Tokyo Olympics immediately, the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled on Saturday (yesterday). Agapitov had his accreditation stripped away from him last week by the International Olympic Committee over an antidoping rule violation from 1994. The CAS determined on Saturday (yesterday), though, that the IOC punishing Agapitov for something that happened nearly three decades ago was “clearly disproportionate.” “The application filed by Mr. Maxim Agapitov is upheld and the accreditation delivered to him in June 2021 for the Olympic Games in Tokyo will have to be reinstated,” CAS said in a statement, via Reuters. “The Panel found that the evidence submitted by the parties was sufficient to d e m o n s t r a t e t h a t M r. Agapitov did meet the criteria established by the IOC to receive an accreditation ... despite an anti-doping rule violation committed in 1994, at the time of his athlete’s career. “The Panel considered that the criteria in case of any ADRV committed at any
Maxim Agapitov
time in an athlete’s life was clearly disproportionate.” Agapitov, who is also the acting President of the European Weightlifting Federation, had his accreditation for the Games issued to him last month, as he was supposed to attend Tokyo as part of the International Weightlifting Federation delegation. Yet on July 16, the IOC pulled that accreditation from him. It said that officials must “not have a personal history linked to any anti-doping rule violation and/or sanction.” Agapitov is a board member with the IWF, which has been rocked with numerous doping allegations and cover-ups in recent years. Longtime president Tamas Ajan resigned due to the scandal last year, too, after 20 years at the helm of the organization. According
to Reuters, there are nearly 150 “unresolved” antidoping cases involving the IWF between 2009-19. Agapitov argued that because his personal doping suspension came nearly 30 years ago that he shouldn’t be punished again. And, given his record helping to clean up the Russian Weightlifting Federation since he became the president in 2016, that he has more than proven his commitment to the sport. “Justice prevailed today,” Agapitov said, via TASS. “The decision by the IOC to strip me of my accreditation was a blow, it cast doubt over my reputation. “I didn’t doubt for a second that I would follow through to safeguard my name and reputation. The question surrounding my trip to Tokyo was secondary to me.”
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Sunday July 25, 2021
Tokyo Olympics: Gold medals, shock exits, high temperatures and positive Covid tests on day one BBCsport - China won the first gold medal of the Games and hosts Japan claimed their first gold on a sweltering opening day of t h e To k y o O l y m p i c s . Athletes complained about exhausting conditions given the combination of high temperatures and humidity, with several tennis players asking for matches to be moved to start later in the day. Cyclists in the men’s road race in particular felt the strain, but Ecuador’s Richard Carapaz managed to defy the conditions, convincingly winning his nation’s second ever gold medal. China’s traditional early dominance of the medal table endured, with Yang Qian winning the first available gold in the women’s 10m air rifle final. Shortly afterwards, Hou Zhihui celebrated victory in t h e w o m e n ’s - 4 9 k g weightlifting, with a combined score of 210, breaking the Olympic record. Naohisa Takato beat Taiwan’s Yang Yung-wei in the 60kg judo final at the Nippon Budokan to claim Japan’s first gold on what was a mixed day for the hosts. Elsewhere, a nurse from Iran became the Olympic champion in the men’s 10m air pistol competition. Javad Foroughi only took up the sport in 2017, after he was shown how to use an air pistol in a basement under the hospital where he works. South Korean pair An San and Kim Je-deok took gold in the mixed team archery. ‘Humidity is brutal’ World number one Novak Djokovic made a good start as he continues his bid for the ‘Golden Slam’, opening with a routine 6-2 6-2 win over Bolivia’s Hugo Dellien in the men’s singles. But the Serb became the second player to question the
China’s Yang Qian won the first gold medal of the 2020 Olympics. (Getty Images) scheduling of matches, after Russian Daniil Medvedev suggested a later start time would make conditions more bearable. “Humidity is brutal... I agree with him 100%,” said Djokovic. “To be honest, I don’t understand why they don’t start matches at, say, 3pm. “Maybe the ITF [ I n t e r n a t i o n a l Te n n i s Federation] can give you a better answer to why they chose to be played in the middle of the day. I doubt they will change the decision, but we’re hoping that they will.” The ITF has said the schedule has taken into account factors such as local authority restrictions around Covid-19 and the unpredictability of the weather. It said player health was paramount, adding that there was an extreme weather policy in place, which allowed for drinks breaks and even suspension of play should certain conditions be reached. A legend eliminated One of the biggest shocks of day one came from Japan’s seven-time Olympic medallist, gymnast Kohei Uchimura. The two-time allaround champion, who is 32, had elected to only compete in his preferred apparatus, the high bar. But after a fall in qualifying, he will not feature in the final. “I hit my peak already,” said the veteran gymnast
after he watched his teammates produce a series of high-quality routines. “It has been so tough to get selected as a national team member. That itself was already really tough.” There was another shock exit for the host nation at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre, as three-time world champion Daiya Seto, regarded as Japan’s best hope for gold in the pool, failed to qualify for the men’s 400m individual medley final. Covid still a huge factor - Dutch rower Finn Florijn, who was due to take part in the men’s single sculls repechage, tested positive for Covid-19 after competing in the heats. The 21-year-old has gone into quarantine and will not compete again at the Games. He is the first athlete to test positive after competing in Tokyo, a development that could throw into question the rigidity of the preventative systems in place. In the first medal ceremony of Tokyo 2020, Yang was handed her medal on a tray by International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach in accordance with the Covid-19 protocols that will affect every aspect of these Games. Winners are asked to place medals over their own heads and masks were worn on the podium at all times. Are Team USA playing it safe? For the first time
It’s a goal fest in Tokyo!
China and Zambia now shared a 4-4 draw with Brazil v Netherlands finishing 3-3 MailOnline - Group F in the women’s football has been a goal fest in the opening four games, with Brazil, China, Netherlands
and Zambia scoring a combined 32 goals at the Tokyo Olympics so far. The group stage got off to a flyer on Wednesday when
Netherlands thrashed Zambia 10-3, while Brazil put five past China. Saturday’s (yesterday) group (Continued on page 65)
1972, Team USA have failed to win a medal of any colour on day one of the Games. In the softball tournament, which got under way earlier in the week before the official opening ceremony, the gold medal favourites continued their winning start, beating Mexico 2-0 at the Yokohama Baseball Stadium. But the US team have faced criticism for their slow and often defensive playing style, having only scored five runs in three games. “All we care about is getting wins right now,” said catcher Aubree Munro. “So we’re good, but we’re gonna keep plugging and we’re definitely waiting for that offence to bust open.”
Djokovic said he struggled with the heat on court and urged officials to move matches later. @AP
China lead medal table, Carapaz doubles Ecuador’s all-time gold tally
S
portsmax - China lead the way with four medals after the opening day of the Olympics, as Richard Carapaz doubled Ecuador’s all-time tally of golds in Tokyo. Yang Qian was the first athlete to strike gold in the Japanese capital, winning the women’s 10-metre air rifle competition for China. Sun Yiwen also claimed a gold medal for China in the women’s epee individual fencing event, while compatriot Hou Zhihui came out on top with an Olympic record in the women’s 49kg weightlifting. Pang Wei claimed China’s other medal on the opening day, taking bronze in the men’s
10m air pistol event. Carapaz produced a sensational ride to win the men’s road race title, becoming the second athlete from Ecuador to win an Olympic gold medal. Host nation Japan and Italy are jointsecond in the medal table with a gold and a silver apiece. There were three medals for South Korea, including a triumph for Kim Je Deok and An San in the first mixed team archery event. The United States remain notably absent from the primitive medal table, though, having ended the first day of the Games without a medal for the first time since Munich 1972.
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 25, 2021
PAGE 69
‘Not disappointed with Keevin’s performance’- Coach Blake By Sean Devers It was the biggest night of his career for 22-year-old Guyanese pugilist Keevin Allicock who, in his first outing at this level carried the weight of expectations of the entire Guyanese community at home and in the diaspora on his shoulders. And although he lost by a unanimous decision to number 7 ranked Alexy Cruz on Saturday evening in the first round of the Tokyo Olympics to end his Olympic medal dream, his Coach Sebert Blake said he was not disappointed with the performance of his boxer. The 47-year-old FYF
Coach who has been with Allicock since he first stepped into the Albouystown Boxing Gym, said he would not say anything went wrong in the fight. “For me, I would not say nothing went wrong. The boxer is a good fighter…he is rated number seven in world…he is not a fly-bynight fighter; he is a very good boxer and Keevin tried his best. I think Keevin executed most of the plans we set out. He (Cruz) is a tall fighter and our intention was to fight mid to short range… Keevin tried but at times we were not getting the distance we wanted. But he tried his
utmost and I was not too pleased with some of the scores. If you observe the first round and even the second round…to me, it was a bit closer than the Judges put forward but the Judge’s decision is final and we have to live with it,” said Coach Blake “I am not disappointed. We are at the largest multisport Games in the World…the Olympics. So I am not disappointed in anyway. Keevin is very young and 2024 is just three years away from now so Keevin has a long and successful road ahead. We all know that Keevin
Allicock out-boxed by de Cruz as Guyanese medal hopes in Tokyo Olympics ends
Allicock (left) and De Cruz trades punches By Sean Devers For 22-year-old Guyanese Featherweight Keevin Allicock it was not the performance he was hoping for as he was out-boxed by Miguel Alexy De Cruz from the Dominica Republic yesterday in the Tokyo Olympics to lose by a unanimous verdict in the preliminary round of the Boxing competition. The Guyanese failed to score with any meaningful shots as the more experienced 25year-old Dom. Rep. pugilist ranked number 7 in his division, demonstrated excellent defence and good use of the ring. In April 2019 in Nicaragua, Allicock conceded a controversial ‘Walk Over’ to Miguel Alexy De Cruz in the semi-finals of the Pan Am Games Qualifiers due to ‘inappropriate attire’. But yesterday, Allicock, the Caribbean Bantamweight Champion, known for his lightning fast jabs, opted the fight at middle and close range but his shots to the body of the taller De Cruz were well defended. De Cruz also failed to land any big blows but executed more scoring shots and demonstrated good evasive tactics when Allicock tried to attack his man, to impress all five judges. In the opening round
both boxers looked to figure out the tactics of each other with Allicock, ranked 19 in world, trying to be the more aggressive of two. De Cruz counter-attacked with some good shots towards to end of the round which seemed closer than the judges scores indicated. Both boxers qualified for the biggest multi sports event in the world due to their rankings. Round two saw Allicock moving forward but De Cruz countered with shots to the midsection and defended well when the Guyanese went the body with shots of his own with De Cruz again getting the verdict of all the judges. The third and final round saw Allicock looking to attack at close range but De Cruz evaded most of them, dancing around the ring as Allicock chased his man looking for a knock-out to end his best round of the contest. However, it was too little too late even as one of the five judges give Allicock the round. Despite De Cruz being cut above his left eye from an accidental head butt the boxer from the Dominican Republic dashed the hopes of Guyana getting its second medal in Boxing since Mike Parris’ bronze in Moscow in 1980.
has the talent it’s just that he needs the necessary support and guidance. The Camp that we had in Russia was great but we need more regular Camps like these to help Keevin develop…or any athlete develop,” continued the Coach. Before heading to Russia the talented Allicock and three other Guyanese boxers journeyed to Cuba for threemonth training camp which ended up being much longer as the athletes being stranded in the Spanish speaking Caribbean Island due to the covid-19 pandemic. “Keevin did not fight since 2019 due to the pandemic so there is no disappointment for me and I am sure that Keevin is not disappointed. It’s a major achievement just qualifying for the Olympics. I would say it was a good fight because it was number seven in the world Keevin boxed against,” disclosed Blake, who won a Bronze medal at the 1997 Pan Am Games in Colombia. According to Blake, the next step for Keevin is the World Championships coming up later this year and to keep him interested in the sport. “I think if we continue supporting him, he has great things for Guyana but we have to give him the support to move forward. After the fight I asked him how he felt and he said he is ok and
Garfield Wiltshire, Chef-de-Mission of Team Guyana is flanked by Allicock (left) and Coach Blake. mentally strong. He is feeling a bit of pain on his shoulder and we put some ice on it. Other than that he says he is feeling good. But during the night I will keep checking on him and find out how he thinks and his plans to move forward. We have a few days to sit and plan the way forward for him. We have a short three years from now moving
forward and I think we have to make the investment in other boxers and go back to the drawing board. It took us three years to get us to where we are at so if we get another three years it will be six years for to get what we will really want. It is only the Association and the Government will know what investment they would make,” Blake concluded.
Edghill’s Olympics campaign ends after second match Guyana’s first Table Tennis Olympian, Chelsea Edghill, got off her maiden appearance at the quadrennial showpiece in fine style after defeating Sally Yee of Fiji 4-1 in her preliminary round match but couldn’t keep up with the pace of South Korea’s Yubin Shin in round one. In the preliminary match at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gym, Chelsea dominated and won 11-5, 4-11, 11-3, 116, 11-8 against Yee who was in her second outing at the Olympic Games. However, in the round of 32 match, Edghill couldn’t handle the 17-year-old Korean who was lethal in a 4-0 sweep. Shin’s victories were recorded 11-7, 11-8, 11-1, 12-10. In a statement on the official social media account of the local star, she stated that, “The Olympics has
Chelsea Edghill and Coach Idi Lewis come to an end for me and all I feel is pride and humility for such an incredible experience. I just want to say thank you! To my Sponsors, The G u y a n a Ta b l e Te n n i s Association, the Guyana Olympic Association, my supporters and above all else, my entire family, you
have my gratitude.” “To my coach Idi, you’ve been there through thick and thin and it’s with pride that I share such an experience with you. Thank you.” Edghill continued, “To all of my fellow Guyanese, it fills my heart with joy and happiness seeing you come (Continued on page 65)
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Sunday July 25, 2021
Thomas, Nichols, Rickford, Gonsalves among victors as GGA/Nexgen camp conclude
Respective prize winners and organisers following the conclusion of the camp.
T
he Annual Golf Camp held by the Guyana Golf Association and Nexgen Golf Academy, dedicated to former Coach Colin Ming finished on a high note on Thursday at the Scouts Association of Guyana ground with a final competition and graduation compliments of Sterling Products. Paul Charles, reigning Mister Model of Tourism World, joined sponsors Mohamed and Colin (H. Nauth & Sons) and Meirisa Jennings (BM Enterprises) to assist with the handing over of Certificates and Trophies that were sponsored by Ansa McAl, BM Enterprises, Toolsie Persaud, AR Printery and Trophy Stall. Dr. Joaan Deo stood in for Captain Chen Deo, running the competition with Coaches Margo and Vishal with assistance from Ms. Thomas announced the winners from the 60 participants in the eight categories as follows: from first to third Boys Under-6 Lester Thomas, Kyle
Motilall ,Raphael Williams. Girls Under-6 Maranda Nichols, Nickaya McKey, Kaitlyn Gurcharran. Boys Under-8 Elon Rickford, Christophur Gonsalves, Maxwell Viapree. Girls Under-8 Amelia Gonsalves, Gianna Ramkellawan, Aanya Wintz. Boys Under-13 Kristian Viapree, John Thomas, Shewray Ramkumar. Girls Under-13 Solana Ramsaroop, Gabriella Edmondson, Nia Richards. Boys Under-17 Keon Gonsalves, Isaiah Persad, Christopher Williams. Girls Under-17 Chaeli Henry, Divya Charles, Shania Garraway. Speaking on behalf of the participants, Elton George who was born with cerebral palsy and brought by the Gonsalves family to play Golf for the first time summed it up with a simple statement, “This was my greatest experience and I loved it!” The Golf Camp featured table tennis and fitness with C o a c h M i g u e l Wo n g , players from the Guyana National Table Tennis team and the Titans Tennis Club
along with Coaches Anand Mangra and Narda Mohamed for Archery. “The reaction of the youths to a variety of sports at the Camp saw several getting involved in sports they never even imagined they would like!” Ms. Mizuna Gonsalves, spoke for the parents thanking the coaches and staff of the Guyana Golf Association and Nexgen Golf Academy for their efforts stating, “This was an excellent initiative and most welcome for parents who wanted a safe and welcoming environment for their children after months of being cooped up at home. It was a well-run programme and most importantly, our youths absolutely loved the experience, and the coaches were excellent!” Jake Thomas and Dean Viapree added, “Our boys had a fantastic experience and we’ll definitely be recommending the Academy to friends and family.” President of the GGA/Nexgen Golf Academy, Aleem Hussain said it was the parents, coaches, staff and sponsors which included the Shafura Hussain Foundation, Anwar Buddy Shaffie, the Ming family and the many overseas Guyanese golfers, who along with staunch corporate sponsors such as Assuria General Insurance; Copa Airlines; Blue Life Waters; Trophy Stall; Ansa McAl; Toolsie Persaud; Kanuku Suite & Apartments; Ramchand Auto; Kanuku Tours; Angel Seafood Restaurant & Bar; Sunshine Snacks; Ram & Mcrae;
Coach/player Joaan Deo gives instructions to a young player at the Camp Puran Brothers; Panko Steel Construction; H. Nauth & Sons; DanCo Inc.; AR Printery; Bissessar Shipping Company; CS World Cargo & Logistics; Sterling Products; Caliper Drones; PasCargo; New Trend Auto; Pur Persaud; Maraiko Bay Resorts; the Knight family; and NexGen Global Group who were the reason for the success of this and other efforts to develop golf in Guyana. Hussain emphasised that without the help from Head Coach Dr. Joaan Deo, and all the other coaches, Philip; Niketa; Steve; Al Wilson Jr.; Andrew and Captain Chen Deo who helped to design
the training programme and worked with the Academy during the past year, this Camp could not have been a success. Due to demand, another Golf Camp will commence on Aug 2-14 with added attractions of Fitness Training, table tennis, badminton and archery being showcased. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors Service Guyana HVAC; Toolsie Persaud, Ansa Mcal, H. Nauth & Sons and Trophy Stall, kids from the BV Police Youth Group headed by Mr. Barrow will be given the opportunity to experience these sports. Plans are also being
made to host additional Golf Camps and activities during the rest of the year in Berbice, Linden, Essequibo, West Coast Demerara and Georgetown. “These will be two and three day camps in various regions so that all youths are given the opportunity to learn from the top coaches in t h e c o u n t r y. ” A n y o n e interested in future activities, Golf Camps, or learning the game can contact the Academy which has a lighted Driving Range that is open daily from 09:00hrs to 20:00hrs, via WhatsApp 668 7419 or nexgengolfacademy on Facebook and Instagram.
Kaieteur News
Sunday July 25, 2021
PAGE 73
12th annual GBTI/GTA Open declared open by Minister Ramson Jr.
Charles Ramaon Jr. opens the tourney with a serve. ((Calvin Calvin Chapman photo photo))
By Calvin Chapman The Guyana Bank for Trade & Industry (GBTI) and the Guyana Tennis Association (GTA) has partnered for the 12th consecutive year to host the 2021 Open tournament. On Thursday, the event was officially declared open by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCY&S) Charles Ramson Jr. at the GBTI Diamond Branch which will host the competition for the first time in its 12 year history.
From left, Chairman of the NSC Kashif Muhammad, Minister Charles Ramson and GTA President Cristy Campbell with players and executives of the GTA and sponsors GBTI following the opening ceremony on Thursday. (Calvin Chapman photo)
Also present at the opening was Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle along with GTA President Cristy Campbell among others. Ramson opened his remarks by stating that people development is very important at his Ministry and that a lot of his success professionally is due to the values he would’ve gained from his involvement in sport. He lauded GBTI for their consistent partnership with sport, noting that the nation’s
young people need this and encouraged other entities to not neglect their corporate responsibly. In conclusion, the Minister mentioned that although they are developing Courts at the national racquet center, the MCY&S is also looking to develop courts in Linden and Berbice to help decentralise, as will be the case with all core sports. Marketing Manager of the GBTI, Nadia De Abreau gave GBTI/GTA Open her seal of approval and assured continued partnership, “We reaffirm our support to this tournament and the GTA. The tournament just improves each year with high quality of competition and I’m sure after the end of
Ramnauth scores 48 not out in Essequibo Coast CC win at OSCL competition Former national youth player Devon Ramnauth hit a responsible, unbeaten 48 to lead Essequibo Coast Cricket Club to a comfortable seven-wicket win over Bacchus Ruff Ryder last Saturday in the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) 20-over competition. Playing at Dean Park, Toronto, the righthanded Ramnauth struck three sixes and two fours as Essequibo Coast chased down Ruff Ryders’ challenging 120-6. Ramnauth got useful support from another ex-youth player, Dillon Heyliger with a cameo 20 while Davo Ramsawak and Ravendra Madholall contributed 19 not out and 15, respectively. When Ruff Ryders batted, opener Azhadeen Amidon hit a top-score of 32. Heyliger, who represented Canada internationally too, proved his all-round capability by claiming 2-14 off his four overs. And on Sunday, Essequibo Coast tasted their first defeat of the season, suffering a sixwicket whipping at the hands of Carr Tec at Ashtonbee Park also in Toronto. Essequibo Coast only managed an inadequate 73 all out while Carr Tec, in reply, reached 74-4 in the 12th over. Former Guyana under-19 player Yoodhanlall Suklall grabbed 4-15 off his fours and was brilliantly supported by Gavin
Devon Ramnauth Glasgow, who snatched 3-12 in his four overs, delivering for the victorious side. When Carr Tec got the total, another former youth player Rovendra Mandolall made 33 not out. Essequibo Coast has three wins now from four outings. The competition will resume until August 7 after a break for two consecutive weeks.
this tourney, the narrative will be the same. Former GBTI Open Champion, now President of the GTA; Campbell, in her remarks highlighted that, “The Minister (Ramson Jr.) has moved Tennis into a core sport. We have a brand new facility that is almost complete. He has given tennis the support that was lacking throughout the years and we are grateful.” She further mentioned that, “GBTI is always supporting us. Whether it be financial support or just using any of their facilities to host tourneys or train. We are very grateful for their support.” Meanwhile, the Director of Sport in his remarks mentioned that, “We should applaud a relationship that has lasted so long. It is testament to the good work that the GTA has been doing. I’m positive that each
participant will learn something from this event so everyone will come out a winner.” Recently appointed Tournament Director Phillpe Jackson said that, “I expect really good quality in this tournament. But, the task
here is trying to develop the youth in tennis and give everyone the opportunity to play and see how far they can go.” GBTI first partnered with the GLTA in 1989 to 1993 and resumed their support in 2009.