Kaieteur News

Car used in K NEWS Fagundes’ shooting traced from North Road AIETEUR

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Tuesday Edition June 08, 2021 - Vol. 14 No. 23

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 83,287

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

ExxonMobil deal leaves all citizens shackled to debt trap for decades p.

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Pensioner perishes in New Amsterdam fire p.

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Hungarians protest against planned Chinese university campus p.

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Bus driver turns self in after abandoning bus that struck down teen

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This citizen on the Essequibo Coast joined the protest yesterday for the renegotiation of oil contracts.

GLDA producing 120 Two killed in bags of feed per day for separate accidents flood-affected animals at Loo Creek Village p.

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Vaccination, not a lockdown, - Emergency will defeat COVID-19 Medicine Specialist p.

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Listen how Exxon is playing 3 card game with Guyana

Listen @11am, 4pm and 7pm on Kaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5FM

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday June 08, 2021

Vaccination, not a lockdown, - Emergency will defeat COVID-19 Medicine Specialist B

ased on evidence gathered by Emergency Medicine Specialist, Dr. Zulfikar Bux, since the onset of COVID-19, a lockdown to help combat the disease could potentially cause more harm than good.

In his column of last S u n d a y, t h e d o c t o r highlighted the fact that “there isn't a worldwide consensus on lockdowns since evidence has shown that it can be another form of devastation if it is poorly timed and implemented in systems that cannot support it.”

Dr. Bux has made his theory public at a time when the country is experiencing the worse phase of the pandemic thus far and a number of solutions have been proposed to help chart the way forward.

One popular suggestion, he acknowledged, is that of a

total lockdown of the country with the hope that “it will enable us to regain control of the spiralling numbers of infections and deaths.” But given the prevailing evidence and the current state of affairs in the land, Dr. Bux worries that a lockdown may not sufficiently control the spread of the disease before the economy is devastated and more lives are lost.

Backed by science, he revealed that there are other solutions that may be the best way to get a better handle on

the disease instead of having to “play catch up when we reopen after a lockdown.”

Citing a 2021 systemic review of studies on COVID19 spread, Dr. Bux noted that it was deduced that a low proportion (less than 10 percent) of global infections occurred outdoors, and higher odds (18.7 percent times) compared to outdoors transmission. In fact, he noted that experts are convinced that outdoor COVID-19 transmissions may be less than one percent, a state of

affairs that was demonstrated in Ireland where evidence showed only 0.1 percent of COVID-19 infections occurred outdoors.

Since COVID-19 seems to have an affinity to spread indoors, Dr. Bux opposes a lockdown given the fact that Guyana has enough active cases that will facilitate continued indoor spread for a projected period as most of the population will have to be confined indoors.

“My concern is that we may see a rise in cases initially if there is a lockdown and this is a counterproductive move given the alternative options available to us,” he noted.

The data, according to Dr. Bux, shows that in closed spaces, one's risk of acquiring COVID-19 increases with the duration they spend in the space, the smaller (dimension) the space, the more populated (density) the space is, and the lack of airflow and fresh air (draft) in the said space.

A lockdown, he theorised, “will increase our chances of being exposed to the '4Ds' (duration, dimension, density and draft). However, with careful planning, we can carry out our daily lives and prevent a lockdown once we design our interactions in open settings that are larger, less crowded, has good airflow, and we minimise the amount of time we are close to others in the such

settings.”

In addition to these evidence-based solutions, Dr. Bux noted that there is also evidence of the negative mental health, cardiovascular and socio-economic effects of lockdowns that cannot be ignored and must also be taken into consideration given the long-term risks, which they pose to those affected.

Even as he opposes a lockdown, Dr. Bux shared his belief that “vaccination will take us ahead of the pandemic.” With Guyana poised to receive sufficient vaccines for its population before the year ends, he believes that it is on the right track to annihilate COVID19.

He qualified this by pointing to the fact that “countries with high vaccination rates have been able get ahead of the pandemic and substantially reduce deaths and infections from COVID-19. If we are proactive and get vaccinated ASAP, we can achieve the target of at least 80 percent vaccination coverage and get ahead of the pandemic before the year is out.”

A lockdown, he maintained, will only stall this window of opportunity and may hamper the vaccination drive sufficiently to leave the nation in this pandemic for the next year or

Emergency Medicine Specialist, Dr. Zulfikar Bux more. He noted, therefore, “a wise person will look at countries with high vaccination rates like the US, UK, Israel, etc., and realise that they can contribute to a similar situation in Guyana by getting vaccinated ASAP.” Turning his attention to treatment, Dr. Bux noted that a recent meta-analysis of the effectiveness of Ivermectin showed that 95 percent of the 57 studies reviewed, indicated a positive effect when Ivermectin was used to treat COVID-19 patients especially when it was used early. Ivermectin is a medication used to treat many types of parasite infestations. “My clinical experience with using Ivermectin to treat COVID19 patients,” Dr. Bux said, “has also been excellent. It has a strong safety profile and it is a far better option to explore to help control COVID-19 infection and death rates before considering a systemic lockdown.”

UK congratulates Guyana on joining Global Oceans Alliance

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cting British High Commissioner, Ross Denny, has congratulated Guyana on signing the Global Oceans Alliance ahead of World Ocean Day, which is being observed today.

The Global Oceans Alliance is a 43-country strong alliance, led by the UK. Its aim is to protect at least 30 percent of the global ocean in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) Acting British High and Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures Commissioner, Ross Denny (OECMs)by2030.Thisisknown Area (MPA) status by 2030 asthe“30by30 target.”

In his congratulatory through the 30by30 initiative. message, Denny said, “The These protections help UK congratulates Guyana vulnerable marine species to on signing up to the Global thrive, and can help fight Oceans Alliance, which climate change by protecting aims to ensure that at least 30 key carbon habitats such as percent of the global ocean is m a n g r o v e f o r e s t s a n d assigned Marine Protected seagrass meadows.”

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 08, 2021

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Car used in Fagundes’ ExxonMobil deal leaves shooting traced from all citizens shackled to debt trap for decades North Road

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aieteur News has learnt that investigators, aided by CCTV footage, have been able to partially trace the movement of the heavily tinted White Toyota Fielder vehicle, which was used in the murder of Ricardo Fagundes.

It was revealed during the initial stages of the investigation that detectives were reviewing CCTV footage to see if they can probably trace the car used to transport Fagundes' assassins before and after the shooting.

So far, according to investigators, they have been able to trace that car from North Road to Main Street, Georgetown, prior to the gunning down of Fagundes in front of Palm Court.

Video footage of the shooting showed that the killers were waiting in a heavily tinted white car parked on the eastern end at the corner of Middle and Main Streets facing south.

Investigators did not comment any further but it could be that the car drove west along North Road and turned onto Main Street using the roundabout located in front of the Bank of Guyana.

The car was seen parked outside of Palm Court for a while until Fagundes stepped out.

The video of the shooting showed that as he walked towards a black pickup parked on the western end of Main Street, his assassins emerged from the back passenger seat of the car and ran towards him as they riddled him with bullets.

Fagundes dropped to the ground and they fired a few more shots at him before reentering the car as it sped off in a southern direction.

Hours later, a burnt out car similar to the one used by the assassins was found at a location along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway but police have been unable so far to verify if it is the same.

Kaieteur News had reported on Sunday that there might be a prime suspect in the killing who is seen driving around in a car every day.

At least this was what a relative had told this

Gunned down in front of Palm Court, Ricardo Fagundes newspaper. Investigators had reportedly told Fagundes' family members that there is someone who they believe is the prime suspect.

One of the relatives related that they would see “that main suspect driving a car around the city every day with police escorts and taking photos with top politicians of the country.”

The individual disclosed that investigators hinted that more are involved in the crime and updates to them will be provided as the investigation unfolds. They also reportedly disclosed to the family members that they are pursuing certain leads and it would take a while for them to wrap up the entire investigation.

Family members, however, related that they have lost faith in the promises made by the investigators because it appears as though they will never arrest the prime suspect because he is said to be a very wealthy and influential individual.

Expounding a little f u r t h e r y e s t e r d a y, h i s relatives speculated that it could be a case where the investigators will eventually be forced to cover-up their findings.

The relatives assured that if it turns out that way, they will not give up fighting for justice and will even move to protest if they have to.

Fagundes better known a 'Paper Shorts' was gunned down on March 21, 2021 around 22:00hrs.

On the night of his murder, he was socialising with his best friend, Roger Khan, and others at Palm Court.

Fagundes had reportedly stepped out of the bar to bring Khan's pick-up closer to the entrance of Palm Court but he was assassinated before doing so.

Khan had publicly said that he was the intended target and during Fagundes funeral reiterated that “every one of the bullets was meant for me (Khan).”

Fagundes and Khan were almost the same height and on the night of his murder, they were reportedly dressed alike.

rom beginning to e n d , t h e Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) governing the oil rich Stabroek Block, has some of the world's most oppressive provisions, which ensure the lion's share of the nation's wealth is tumbling by the billions into the pockets of ExxonMobil and its shareholders.

Also cunningly interwoven into the Stabroek Block deal that was signed by former Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman, are traps that will leave Guyana shackled by debt for decades to come. One such trap involves a provision that allows ExxonMobil to recover any and all interests it racks up on loans borrowed to fund the development of oil projects in the offshore concession.

The interests accumulated can be recovered even if they are gold plated. Several globally respected organisations such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have said there is no economic logic for allowing this and had advised the Government

to prohibit oil companies from recovering the interests and other financing costs.

Former University of Houston Instructor, Tom Mitro, had agreed with such a recommendation as he contended that this arrangement leaves Guyana open to the abusive use of debt by the operators, since Guyana is essentially standing all the costs.

The new oil producing state is also shackled to other exploitive provisions which state that the country will essentially foot the bill for any legal fees that Exxon incurs for action brought against it by the state.

Also, if there is any environmental damage, Guyana would have to prove in the courts that it was a clear case of not mere negligence but “gross negligence” so as to prevent the company from recuperating all costs. And that is not all – should Guyana even consider implementing laws that could affect the profits ExxonMobil is expected to make, the nation will have to compensate the company for its losses.

Furthermore, every cent the oil giant spends on hiring and training locals as well as monies it has to expend on the safe removal of all equipment used in the extraction and production of oil will have to be repaid by Guyana.

As a result of these and many other similar provisions, Tom Sanzillo, Director of Finance at the I n s t i t u t e f o r E n e r g y, Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), told Kaieteur News, Guyana will not have enough money from the oil projects to save significantly as well as to cover budget deficits. In fact, the Director said that Guyana will find itself owing ExxonMobil US$20B at the end of 2025.

It is a cycle of debt that is expected to continue for not only the Liza Phase One project, but all others to follow.

ExxonMobil and its joint v e n t u r e p a r t n e r, H e s s Corporation, have already said that the discovered resources can support 10 oil projects. The oil giants have every intention of making this a reality.

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Tuesday June 08, 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

It has to be bad when The New York Times takes note Water! Water! Water everywhere. This was what was confirmed by the caption, “Severe Flooding in Guyana Prompts Extensive Relief Effort” (New York Times June 3).

It has to be bad, extremely bad, when flooding in this country merits space in the New York Times. Well, it is bad, with the then known extent of havoc wreaked further emphasised by the supporting detail that, “More than 6,900 households have been severely affected by flooding across the small South American country in the past several weeks, according to official estimates.” It is now June 7, and additional rains have only intensified the woes of Guyanese across widest spans in this land.

And yet we continue along the same paths that we have always followed: our house is underwater, our foundation is weakened, and still, we think that we can address in the most comprehensive manner, and most successfully, the plagues that menace the 750,000 plus inhabitants of Guyana.

According to the New York Times article, one struggling Guyanese woman, surrounded by what looks like an ocean of endless water (it is for her and neighbours) had this to say: “This is madness,” while adding that she has never seen such flooding in more than 60 years of living in the Kwakwani section of Guyana. She was talking of the vastness of the floodwaters, but she just as well could have been speaking of our system of governance, our way of life, our lessons from mistakes that are never learned. Now America and the world know about a faraway place called Kwakwani.

There are numerous other waterlogged Kwakwanis laced across the length and breadth of Guyana. His Excellency, President Irfaan Ali, has said that this is among the worst disasters in memory with place after place, and more and more citizens staring at great devastations and greater losses.

At least, he got that one right, for which Guyanese should thank him. We would thank him some more, when the mentality in the current government is that of ‘all shoulders to the wheel’ and ‘all hands must be on deck.’ In times of great distress, this is what works, when previous feuds and enmities are put behind, and there is simply working together to keep heads above water, to emerge out of a watery catastrophe in one piece, some hope still inside.

The first problem is that it is not so, and all indications are that this is set in stone. Nothing new or surprising there, except that it costs more in the long run, which nobody wants to face at this time, when the focus is on keeping feet dry, spirits up and heads high. The second problem is that it is there - that which costs more in the long run. To quote from the New York Times, “Officials have said that the flooding could exacerbate the spread of the coronavirus and lead to other health problems if residents can’t find clean food and water. The destruction of crops, homes and livestock could also lead to economic devastation for some families in the hard-hit regions of the country; one of South America’s poorest.”

We are poor materially currently, but we don’t have to be poor mentally. Yes, the scope of flood relief efforts have been commendable, but there is so much more that can be done to rally besieged Guyanese, whether they are at Mora Point, or Black Bush Polder, agricultural or urban, or the goldfields in the near and more remote hinterlands.

Remember, what we said before: all hands must be on deck.

It goes without saying that nobody in government, very few in divided Guyana, is listening, actually listening and making bona fide attempts and doing something about any of this.

The head fights the heart, and the feet of the nation are going in different directions, with watching to note which foot would crumble first. We are up to our eyes in alligators, and yet we carry on along as unconcernedly before on everything. We do this with oil and other natural resources, and we do so with governance and responding to the oncein-a-lifetime disasters that come our way and fall on our heads. It is obvious that when Guyanese news, in this instance massive flooding, makes the New York Times, it is a signal of grave trouble. It is bad. When will the hurting stop?

IF THE OCEAN DIES, WE DIE DEAR EDITOR, Today 8th June is World Oceans Day. Life on earth originated in the ocean. The IPCC Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate says that, “The Ocean is essential for all aspects of human well-being and livelihood.” Our lives depend on a healthy ocean.

But the ocean is dying. Greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels are making the earth hotter. The ocean has absorbed much of that heat. It is also absorbing the carbon dioxide. The ocean is becoming hotter, more acid and less oxygenated. Corals are dying. Shellfish struggle to make their shells. Marine life is finding it harder to breathe. We will too.

The ocean produces 50% of the planet’s oxygen.

The World Economic Forum says there are 5 trillion pieces of plastic pollution in the oceans. Plastic traps, chokes, poisons and exterminates marine life. It pollutes coral reefs. Even-

tually the plastic breaks down into micro particles and marine life eats it and dies. Plastic is a by-product of the fossil fuel sector.

Ballast water takes bacteria, microbes, small invertebrates, eggs, cysts, larvae etc. from their natural marine environment and dumps them as alien invasive species into other marine ecosystems where they have a devastating impact. Oil tankers transport vast quantities of ballast water.

When mangroves are smashed down, fish, shrimp and other marine species lose their nurseries and the chance to reproduce. You can put up a seawall but the fish have nowhere to grow future generations. The earth is the only home our species has ever had. Our home is 70% ocean. If the ocean dies, we die. We have a choice. Happy World Oceans Day. Yours truly, Melinda Janki

The sad reality is that consumers and taxpayers continue to pay for all the inefficiencies DEAR EDITOR, I applaud Minister Rodrigues’ query of “Where’s the efficiency?”

Consumers must demand the answer from GWI, now and in the future. While the unfortunate termination of 157 could probably save GWI G$200M per year, the efficacy question will continue to prevail.

The statements from former and current heads of GWI create more questions for us. Our questions include the following: 1) Dr. Richard Van West-

Charles (former GWI boss) claims that he increased revenues >2 billion; increased collection (reduced debt) by over a billion. But, Dr. Van West-Charles omitted to mention that he increased water rates in 2018! Did increased revenues result from the increased rates?

2 Did Dr. Van WestCharles disclose the plan for a massive hiring spree? Was the revenue gains correctly forecasted and disclosed to the PUC? Are Consumers aware that he had requested the PUC to consider a rate in-

crease based on the Consumer’s property size?

Thank God the PUC remained objective and pragmatic!

3.Could Minister Rodrigues dispute/verify Dr. Van West-Charles’ claim of the following accounts/sums at the change of government: NBS – 283M; Citizens’ Bank – 198M + 170M credit line; BNS – 33M; GBTI – 83M? If these sums are there, then what was the basis of the ‘bankruptcy’ claim of Baksh?

Consumers demand full disclosure.

4) Could Dr. Van West-

Charles and the Minister comment on the capital expenditure of G$2 billion by GWI for January to May 2021? a. Is there a report of stocks and stores on hand on 31/12/2020? For example, what was the inventory of meters on hand at the end of last year? b. How did we justify spending over $200 million on meters? How many meters were ordered, and how many do you install per year? c. Do these meters meet the requirements of the (Continued on page 6)

Exxon pays the US Government taxes on profits made in Guyana but not taxes in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, Discussing Guyana’s lopsided oil contract, I have often called for a quick comparison with Suriname’s contract which provides for three streams of revenue for the host country (royalty, profitshare, profits’ tax) versus Guyana’s which provides for royalty and profit-share but no profits’ tax.This comparison exposes the lopsided nature of Guyana’s contract. On the royalty, Suriname gets a cool 6.25% royalty vs Guyana’s 2%. On this score alone, the difference between 6.25% and 2%, Guyana loses an estimated $23 billion on 9 billion barrels assuming a price per barrel of $60.

On the score of the profits’ tax, Prof. Ganga Ramdas estimates that ExxonMobil would have had to pay $62 million a year on the past year’s three lifts of one million barrels each. Guyana loses out big time in waiving the profits tax for the next 30 years.One active Facebook blogger, Mohamed Karimullah, defending Guyana’s oil contract writes, “Mike Persaud does not take into account that the Surinamese Oil company, Staatsolie, puts up startup and working capital while GoG puts up a fat zero.”

Therefore Suriname, he says, deserves a higher rate of re-

turn on revenues.

Is this a fair point? Of course, an investor putting up actual dollars takes a greater risk – and therefore deserves a higher cut of revenues, if the business is successful. But there is a missing point here.

The oil companies are allowed to deduct all their expenses – startup capital and working capital. Even interest on borrowed money is deducted. So, Karimullah’s argument is based on false reasoning.

And, once there are

proven reserves (the discovery was made before the contract was signed in 2016) and the world demand for oil is not threatened, there is absolutely no risk. Battery powered vehicles are on the horizon – but there would be no significant decline of demand for the next 30 years. Had the GoG chosen to put up capital it would have made no difference. It would have cost the GoG nothing – as every dollar invested plus interest is deducted in the line item

called 75% Cost Recovery.

Now the waiving of profits’ tax. This is a pure giveaway. Imagine ExxonMobil has to pay profits tax on profits made in Guyana to the US government but pays nothing to GoG on profits made in Guyana. Something is terribly wrong. There is absolutely no justification for such an anomaly. The people of Guyana are being ripped off.

Plain and simple.

Yours truly, Mike Persaud.

We have not seen or heard any worthy flood relief effort coming from the Opposition DEAR EDITOR, Guyana has been inundated by floodwaters ever since the May-June rains began, and we are in a national disaster. In some cases whole communities are under water with the loss of crops and livestock with the attendant loss of livelihood, we are certainly in a disaster zone never before witnessed in this country.

The government for its own part are working overtime going out into those communities that are most affected, offering assistance by way of drainage as well as distributing food hampers

and sanitary supplies. It is a mammoth task set before us and as such we are calling on every citizen, organisation, corporate affiliations and religious bodies to come play their part.

Now, one would have thought that the ‘astute’ PNC Opposition would come on board to help the suffering Guyanese People, but, up until this time, we have not seen nor heard, of any effort worthy of note, coming from the opposition.

I am talking about an opposition party who once sat in the seat of government of this country and one who

“blazed” a Good Life trail far and wide.

We are calling on them to step up to the plate, come on board and help us!

I am also a curious bystander who is worried sick at the opposition’s stance on this disaster relief effort, because they are not coming forward as caring and responsible individuals with anything honest and tangible; what is there in the public domain is only scandal that are most damaging to the party’s reputation and to the nation as a whole.

Yours truly, Neil Adams

Tuesday June 08, 2021

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Kaieteur News

Latin America and the Caribbean In Guyana today, smoking guns abound DEAR EDITOR, Hoppie stood down. A cari- which he was allegedly left to Region can be their own vaccine Smoking guns appear to cature of the ‘Silence of the hold as the fall guy for a corbe in abundance in Guyana Lambs.’ On another front, as rupt bunch, was bound to vaccine but partnered with powerhouses today. Credit must go to the if to shift focus away from the raise eyebrows in the same AstraZeneca to manufacture media for revealing the smok- smoking guns at OP/PSC and way as it did with the with-

DEAR EDITOR, Global policy makers failed to heed warnings that the threat of a pandemic is always present resulting in our current dilemma; the reemergence of a Coronavirus was predicted after two prior Coronavirus outbreaks (SARS - 2003, MERS - 2012) and, given the notorious mutation rate of the influenza virus, an influenza pandemic is always a possibility.

COVID-19 has shown the world how ill prepared it was for a pandemic, bringing the developing its own challenges because of a lack of vaccine manufacturing facilities in most countries and the surfacing of vaccine nationalism resulting in the lack of equitable distribution of the world’s current vaccine supply.

The lesson is that we must be prepared and a key way to do so is to make sure we have adequate and sustainable vaccine supplies against a virus that will likely become endemic (discussed in a letter here on April 27th).

India and South Africa proposed to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), in October 2020, a waiver from implementation, application and enforcement of Intellectual Property (IP) rules for COVID-19 related to drugs, vaccines, diagnostics and medical supplies until there is widespread global vaccination and immunisation.

There was little support for this from the developed world until the US gave its support for IP waivers on vaccines (only) in May 2021.

Prior to this the EU and others said they were open to discussion but argued that this waiver would not change anything in terms of vaccine supplies as many developing countries lacked their own vaccine manufacturing capabilities.

The US supporting an IP waiver on vaccines, if/when in effect, is just the beginning of a long journey to vaccine equity. It’s not going to fix the immediate vaccine supply problem as the details are still being iron out and needs consensus agreement among WTO members (may take months, years or may not even happen). In fact, despite Washington’s backing, negotiations on this matter at the WTO on May 31st failed to change anything as it ended with the EU set to introduce an alternative plan in early June for boosting vaccine supplies and the WHO presently calling on rich countries to share what they bought.

Even if vaccine recipes become available most coun-

tries in the developing world do not have the manufacturing capabilities and it will take time to acquire technical expertise particularly for working with new technology like mRNA and upgrade existing facilities; don’t forget trade secrets not included in patents. Further, most LAC countries get vaccines through the PAHO and UN led procurement where vaccine quality, safety and efficacy are qualified by the WHO; for this pandemic the COVAX initiative was set up to aid the developing world however its supply ultimately depends on the same manufacturers that rich countries signed advance purchased agreements with for most of the world’s current supplies (discussed in a letter in Stabroek News on Jan 20th).

The Government of Canada announced on April 23 (2021) that it has secured COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer for 2022 and 2023 with options to extend into 2024.

This supports the near consensus from experts that COVID-19 is likely to become endemic and that there is/will be need for a continuous vaccine supply along with modified vaccines (boosters) that maintains efficacy against existing and emerging variants.

Therefore, the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region should put forward a collaborative effort to ensure sustainable vaccine supplies that can meet regional needs. It’s either this or mostly rely on mechanisms that ultimately depend on advanced countries and we’ve all seen the challenges associated with this during this current pandemic and previous epidemics. I think specific technology transfer agreements are the more viable option.

The best model for a successful technology transfer agreement during this pandemic is that of Oxford University and AstraZeneca. Oxford retained the IP for their

and distribute at cost making it affordable to low and middle-income countries.

Technology transfer agreements were set up with manufacturers in 15 countries at 25 sites around the world including the Serum Institute of India, the main vaccine supplier of COVAX, set to deliver 200 million doses with the option for up to 900 million doses.

In the LAC region, Brazil and Cuba have the potential to meet regional demands as they currently produce 54% and 73% of their own vaccine needs respectively (except for COVID-19); next are Mexico and Colombia with 25% and 7% respectively.

Four of the thirteen vaccines that Brazil produce (oral polio, MMR, rotavirus and pneumococcal) are through technology transfer agreements and partnerships with European Pharmaceutical companies where only the final stages of production are carried out in Brazil.

Through tech transfers they are set to produce the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine soon while Mexico and Argentina will produce it in a joint venture - the main ingredient will be manufactured in Argentina then sent to Mexico for later production steps and distribution.

In addition, União Quimica, a private company in Brazil has already produced their first batch of Sputnik V. The second largest vaccine portfolio in the region belongs to Cuba with eight of its own and five COVID-19 vaccine candidates (two in phase 3 clinical trials). A good example of a South-South collaboration in the region is between the Institute of Technology in Immunobiology (Bio-Manguinhos) in Brazil and the Finlay Institute in Cuba for the production of the meningococcal polysaccharide A-C vaccine, a WHO qualified product.

They produced enough (Continued on page 6)

ing guns to the public. Politicians and the environmental conservationists continue to point smoking guns at each other on environmental issues. It’s the Low Carbon Development Strategy versus the Green State Development Strategy. The former is back in the game while the latter has fallen flat on its face.

On the law enforcement side, smoking guns were revealed when wrangling between the Guyana Police Force and the Police Service Commission (PSC) over a flawed promotions list came to the public’s attention. Expectations are that the Court will extract the smoking gun from the controversy.

Compounding the GPF/ PSC wrangling is the political posture adopted by the Chairman of the PSC towards the Prime Minister’s calls to ‘show cause’ why he should not be sacked as Chairman of the PSC. The Prime Minister is expected to unveil a smoking gun. Having failed to find a smoking gun in one area, the PSC Chairman proceeds to search for another. To do so, he openly accused the President of political interference in the PSC. However, much to his disappointment, his attempt to reach for another smoking gun proved futile while his effort to stir controversy failed to gain traction.

And as if the extant smoking guns were not enough, serious allegations of sexual misconduct were levelled against the Chairman of the PSC and a senior rank of the GPF. Calls have been made for investigations into the said allegations. The investigations might very well produce yet another smoking gun.

Two Police Association elections, one declared legitimate and the other illegitimate, gave rise to the suspicion that there could be another smoking gun at Eve Leary. In the end, Brutus prevailed while

PSC/GPF, the ebullient Attorney General fired a salvo at the Court for its practice of granting bail to persons charged with illegal possession of arms and ammunition.

Lest he be left holding a smoking gun in his hand, the AG will have to navigate several perilous clauses in our Constitution to ensure that the rule of law prevails. While I served as Minister of Home Affairs, I sought approval of a Bail Act, similar to what exists in Trinidad and Tobago. I was told it would be unwise to do so because it would go against the hallowed principles of ‘innocent until proven guilty’ and ‘pre-trial liberty’ guaranteed by our Constitution. The draft Bill was eventually shelved.

On yet another front, a prolific letter writer cum wannabe investigator initiated a futile search for a smoking gun in connection with ‘illegally sourced gold’ from Venezuela. Thus far, the letter writer has failed to produce the smoking gun he was looking for. While the Governor of the Bank of Guyana clung tenaciously to the ‘sensitivities’ associated with the matter, the enigmatic Vice President promptly dismissed the allegation for ‘lack of evidence.’

As we approached the end of May, another smoking gun emerged with the withdrawal of charges against former Government Minister, George Norton, concerning the rental of the Sussex Street warehouse facility. Relieving Norton of the smoking gun

drawal and settling of disputes with ‘unsuspecting businessmen’ at Cevons and ‘Car Care’ regarding alleged illegal land deals.

And Courtney Benn was ‘freed’ as another ‘unsuspecting businessman’ of the allegation that ‘he owed government large sums of money for incomplete works.’ If smoking guns existed in any of these matters, the search for evidence produced none.

In the meanwhile, the search for smoking guns in connection with Trevor Benn’s alleged ‘land giveaways’ and BK International’s ‘breach of contract’ continues. Skirmishes reminiscent of the ‘Battle of the Bulge’ emerged with the announcement of an IRI/US supported electoral reform project. The rigging cabal who were defeated first with the NCM, and subsequently at the CCJ, managed to cough up some political phlegm in objection to the project. However, once again, they found themselves on the back foot as was the case when victory was won by the allies for free and fair elections.

Guyanese have long demonstrated an intense curiosity in smoking gun matters. At the same time, they have never failed to express disdain for abuses of power, failings of character and bending of rules by those in authority, nor their vulnerabilities to lust, greed, corrupt practices and above all, betrayal of public trust.

Yours truly, Clement J. Rohee

PAGE 6

Pres. Ali is moving much too slowly DEAR EDITOR, The incompetence at Guyana Water Inc. appears to be incomprehensible and limitless. Close to $100 million spent on parties and another 100 million spent on travel.

Both within a 2-year period.

This, while the entity struggled to pay wages and salaries to employees. I am glad that the new CEO, Shaik Baksh, is taking the strong management stance and firing excess personnel that were hired.

A GWI crew once turned up to fix a main next door to me. There were four persons in the GWI vehicle. The driver, a technician working on the

issue and two women (one with a clipboard). The two women mostly slept in the cab of the vehicle for the hour the crew was there. One therefore can comprehend the unnecessary excess staff in that entity.

But Baksh should not be firing just the lower level staff.

Senior persons must be held accountable and fired as well.

The directors such as HR and Finance and any other related must also be fired. They may claim that they had nothing to do with it and it was all Van West-Charles, but as directors and senior employees of a State entity, they have a responsibility for the effective

management of the entity.

They failed in this regard and this is another reason to fire them.

Let’s see some action.

President, Irfaan Ali, is moving way too slowly. The ship appears to be floundering already. Why is the GECOM trio still there? What happened with the new Harbour bridge?

It takes forever to cross daily.

A clear example of the sheer incompetence across all administrations over the last 50 years is the massive flooding happening in this country because of poor drainage infrastructure.

Sincerely, Harrish Singh

The US should review its embargo with Cuba in the fight against in the medical field only 992 reported deaths, little COVID-19 champion on par with some of the most over 146,696 infections and DEAR EDITOR, The US should look to review its embargo on trade with Cuba, which was instituted in February 1962 by then President John F Kennedy – this was in response to certain actions taken by the Cuban Government; where the Departments of Commerce and the Treasury were directed to implement the embargo, which controversially remains in place to this very day.

The Cold War has ended, no Berlin Wall exists and the USSR collapsed beyond recognition.

As such, communist Cuba in itself is not a treat to global economic stability nor a terrorist state…but rather a

developed countries in the world.

At present, Cuba is developing two COVID-19 vaccines (Soberana 02 and Abdala) which are presently in Phase 3 clinical trials with efficacy data expected in June 2021 and might be available and ready for inoculation this summer.

However, Cuba has suffered as a result of worldwide shortage of available supplies of raw materials and primary packaging material for its pharmaceutical industry.

In the wave of the global COVID-19 pandemic, Cuba has stood out as one of the most capable countries in the world in fighting the coronavirus pandemic with

with 2,379,961 doses of homegrown vaccines administered so far.

I am sure, once Cuba has fully vaccinated all of its population, and given its medical generosity by nature that country would donate (and/or make available) its vaccines to other countries including Guyana.

But this will definitely require resources and more importantly a level economic playing field on the world stage, so lifting of the US embargo on Cuba would help this nation in fulfilling a humanitarian need in the fight against COVID-19 with its vaccines.

Yours truly, Paul Ramrattan

The sad reality is that consumers...

From page 4 Bureau of Standards, and is the supplier ISO certified? d. Consumers need to have better access to the accounts and strategic plans of GWI. Could GWI release its strategic plan that is used to determine the staffing requirements? e. How many Consumers were metered during 2018 and 2019 and for 2021?

For the sake of public knowledge, I share some of

Tuesday June 08, 2021

Kaieteur News

the GWI Capex: Jan-May 2021 as follows (source NPTA); note this is for the period Jan-May 2021. i. Electromechanical equipment – $133 million ii. Meters and service connection – $634 million iii. Chemicals – $206 million iv. Pipes and fittings – $285 million v. Water wells – $584 million The sad reality is that

consumers and taxpayers continue to pay for all the inefficiencies. Editor, there are more questions – but it is clear that it is time for us Consumers to control our own destiny.

But, for now, 157 persons are forced to the bread line – at no fault of theirs! Wrongfully hired or wrongfully fired? The people will judge.

Yours truly, Dr. Yog Mahadeo Consumer

I welcome the note of civility in Vishnu Bisram’s polemics DEAR EDITOR, In acknowledging Dr. Vishnu Bisram’s response to my letter published in Kaieteur News, captioned, “Tacuma Ogunseye’s response to Vishnu Bisram” I welcome his response and note the civility of his polemics, something that is often absent in Freddie Kissoon’s polemics or advocacy.

Bisram, no fault of yours, you are fortunate to have your letters published in both the electronic and paper editions of the Kaieteur News. I am been denied the same treatment. This unequal access in the public media is in part responsible for unfair public discourse on national issues.

The editor captioned your letter, “Personal differences should not prevent applause of work of opponents.” While you did not mention the word personal in your letter, it is important that I state for the benefit of readers that my disagreement with Freddie Kissoon is not personal but political.

Mr. Bisram is no stranger to the letter columns of our newspapers and should be aware that my public polemics with Kissoon dated back to the 90s. I recalled that it started out as respectful disagreement between a friend and comrade. Over time however, Kissoon’s tactics of misrepresentation, outright lies and cuss out led to a degeneration of our public discourse into tit for tat.

As Bisram correctly pointed out I am familiar with Kissoon’s activism and on this matter, I have no problem.

I have never objected to Kissoon’s activism from our youthful days to the present.

What I object to is his dishonest utterances, uncivil polemics and character deformation of others simply to score points, dishonourably so.

While I applaud Bisram for highlighting the ventures of his “hero,” he cannot at the same time plead ignorance of his hero’s negative behaviour.

“Iconic” status is no excuse, more so since Kissoon is an intellectual and not a lay writer like me.

Readers should know that the political and personal relations between Kissoon and I go back many decades. I was always welcomed in his home and his spouse was always hospitable and I held his baby daughter in my arms. It is for these and other reasons over the years that I tried to have a measured response to Kissoon’s provocations – something Kissoon sensed it and took advantage of. However, I felt constrained to avoid disrespect to his wife

and daughter. Unlike Freddie Kissoon, who denies his ethnicity when it suits his purposes, I proclaim mine. As an African cultural activist I have respect for cultural tradition, and I value human relations above political relations. In doing so, I bring to bear an African world view to my politics.

While I agree with Bisram’s observation that Indians lost their lives fighting the Burnham dictatorship, I was taken aback by his claim that “Whites” were also killed. My query is his use of the plural since to my knowledge the only white person killed during that period was Father Darke.

He refers to my recent letter published in the paper edition of KN (June 01, 2021) “Tacuma Ogunseye sets the record straight.” Having read the letter, Bisram should have been conscious that thousands of Africans at different points and time came out in open resistance against Burnham and the PNC. Despite the obvious he chooses to see that, “only a small number did play a meaningful role opposing Burnham’s racism against Indians.” My initial polemic with the unnamed writer of the KN letter had to do with the blanket statement inferring that no Africans spoke out against the Burnham regime. Bisram while acknowledging the correctness of my position deliberately shifted the discourse to “opposing Burnham’s racism against Indians.”

Why this desperate attempt to claim that Africans supported racism against Indians? If the yard stick is that by supporting your race based party you are showing support for racism, Africans could rightly claim that Indians’ support for Jagan and the PPP was supporting racism against Africans. My point here is that leaders manipulate “race” and their supporters become victims of their action. We have to be careful of not going down the road of collective accusations on this sensitive issue which will inevitably lead to support of

collective punishment.

Bisram writes, “Regrettably, their great work against Burnham/Hoyte rigging were overshadowed by their reluctance to condemn the barefaced attempt at rigging by Mingo and others in March 2020 and onwards.”

While Bisram is right in calling me out on the election crisis, he has to factor in that unlike him and others I was a candidate in those elections and on election day I was receiving information of electoral malpractices in PPP/C areas, hence my reluctance to bat on the PPP/C “wicket” of rigging by one side. I was reserving judgment after the findings of an election court addressing in the election petitions. I asked Bisram and others to state one instance when a PPP/C candidate in elections spoke out against his party rigging.

To date the PPP/C, in defiance of a court ruling that the Region 10 seat was won by the AFC and not the PPP/ C, that party held on to the AFC seat throughout the life of the (2006) parliament: and this is not election rigging in the eye of the present defenders of election rigging.

I conclude this polemic by making two observations: (1) to draw to readers attention to a recent observation by Dr. Henry Jeffrey that elections are rigged long before election day (2) a few days before the court threw out the second APNU+AFC election petition I wrote a letter explaining my attitude and response to the election crisis which was sent to Stabroek News for publication and to date it was never published. I am taking this opportunity to inform readers and Dr. Vishnu Bisram that I will forward the above mentioned letter to the Kaieteur News in another attempt to get it published.

Yours truly, Tacuma Ogunseye Editor’s Note.

There is no policy or directive to restrict any letter published in the newspaper from being published online.

Latin America and the...

From page 5 for themselves and countries in the African meningitis belt.

Production of the vaccine was done in Cuba while lyophilising (freeze drying), filling and final steps were done in Brazil (Sáenz et al.,

MEDICC Rev 2010 12:325).

The vaccine industry is a billion dollar one where the production of a vaccine involves many steps including research and development,

manufacturing, marketing, sales and distribution; all of it encased within a regulatory framework to ensure product safety, efficacy and quality.

Not all steps may be possible in a single country but with collaborative efforts and specific technology transfer agreements, sustainable vaccines supplies are achievable in the region.

Yours truly, Jacquelyn Jhingree, PhD.

T N U L B . . .

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BL TLUNT.. UNT...B BL Tuesday June 08, 2021

Kaieteur News

After years of being plagued with a single natural disaster – flooding – you would think that desilting of trenches and clearing of outfalls and other water ways would be second nature to the relevant authorities.

However, each year that we are faced with incessant rainfalls that lead to flooding, we then realise that Guyana – our dear land – is usually caught unprepared.

Isn't it high time that the Civil Defence Commission and other relevant agencies work on a plan that can really see us having an upper hand when it rains too much?

PAGE 07

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Tuesday June 08, 2021

Bus driver turns self in after abandoning bus that struck down teen A

minibus driver, w h o h a d abandoned his vehicle last Saturday night along the Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara (ECD) Public Road after he struck down a teenager, has since turned himself over to police.

According to police, 37year-old Quincy Trotman of Dochfour, Housing Scheme, ECD, turned himself over to ranks at the Beterverwagting Police Station on Sunday.

At around 21:40hrs Saturday, a police report revealed that Trotman struck down a pedal cyclist, 16y e a r- o l d Vi s h w a n a u t h

Doodnauth of Dr. Miller Street, Triumph, ECD. This publication understands that the pedal cyclist and his brother were on separate bicycles proceeding north on the said public road when a minibus bearing registration number BWW 5336 collided with the teen's bicycle, causing him to fall onto the road surface.

According to police, the teen received injuries to his body and lost consciousness on the scene.

It was revealed too that the bus stopped after the boy was struck down and several passengers exited to render

assistance. It was while the passengers were rendering assistance, the minibus driver sped away.

Doodnauth was picked up in an unconscious condition by public-spirited persons and was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was examined and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with Intracranial Haemorrhage (bleeding in or around the brain).

An eyewitness was able give the description of the bus to police ranks who arrived at the accident scene and the said bus was later

Hospitalised: 16-year-old Vishwanauth Doodnauth found abandoned on the Mon Repos Public Road with damage consistent with an accident.

Trotman, when he turned himself in, identified himself

The bus which was found abandoned after the accident as the driver at the time of the accident and was arrested

promptly. An investigation is ongoing.

Hungarians protest against planned Chinese university campus

Hungarians protest against planned Chinese university campus. (Reuters) (Reuters) - Thousands of Hungarians, some of them holding banners declaring “Treason,” protested on Saturday against a Chinese university's plans to open a campus in Budapest.

Liberal opponents of nationalist Prime Minister, Viktor Orban, accuse him of cosying up to China and fear the campus could undercut the quality of higher education and help Beijing increase its influence in Hungary and the European Union.

"I do not agree with our country's strengthening feudal relationship with China," Patrik, a 22-year-old student who declined to give his full name, said at the protest in the Hungarian capital.

He said funds should be used "to improve our own universities instead of

building a Chinese one."

The government signed an agreement with Shanghaibased Fudan University in April on building the campus at a site in Budapest, where a dormitory village for Hungarian students had previously been planned.

The Government has said Fudan is a world-class institution and the campus would "allow students to learn from the best."

MTI news agency quoted Tamas Schanda, a deputy government minister, as saying Saturday's protest was unnecessary and dismissing "political hysteria" based on unfounded gossip and media reports.

Opposition politicians and economists have criticised what they say will be the high costs of the project and a lack of transparency.

Budapest's mayor opposes

the plan.

"Fidesz is selling out wholesale the housing of Hungarian students and their future, just so it can bring the elite university of China's dictatorship into the country," the organisers of Saturday's protest said on Facebook.

Beijing said this week "a few Hungarian politicians" were trying to grab attention and obstruct cooperation between China and Hungary.

Orban has built cordial ties with China, Russia and other illiberal governments, while locking horns with Western allies by curbing the independence of scientific research, the judiciary and media.

He faces a unified opposition for the first time since assuming power in 2010 before a parliamentary election due in 2022.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 08, 2021

PAGE 09

The NDIA should take the media on an over-flight of the conservancies

A

bout a year ago, it was noticeable that there were weeds emanating from sections of the edges of the Northern Relief Canal near to the Hope/Dochfour outlet.

This could have been seen by persons using the East Coast Public Road.

It was surprising that this was happening considering that this canal was constructed to be major outfall and to relieve pressure on the East Demerara Conservancy. And from all accounts, it has been helping to relieve the pressure on the conservancy.

It could have been that the weeds were as a result of poor maintenance. But it could also be that the outfall was compromised that the discharge had slowed to such a degree that it allowed for weeds to encroach in the canal.

Once there is a strong current, it is hardly likely that weeds can do so since the current would uproot any weeds and transport them into the Atlantic.

The farmers tend to know the local conditions better than the experts. And when farmers in some areas indicate that they believe that the rise in the water in some farming areas, especially the Mahaicony area, is coming from the conservancy aback of the farmlands, they must be taken seriously.

The farmers know the difference between conservancy water and

Dem

boys seh...

D

em boys remember when in de 1960's some of dem Latin American experts bin seh how dem multinational corporations does set up a bridgehead in dem country wah dem wan exploit and de bridgehead does do dem bidding fuh dem.

Dem used to call dem experts dependency theory and dem bin seh how de third world countries poor because of de relationship between dem and dem rich countries. But also because of de relationship between dem rich people in dem poor

accumulation due to rainfall.

It is for the government to dispel that the rise in water in the Mahaicony is not being caused by the conservancy aback of that area.

The fact that the water levels are rising does not mean that there is a breach of the conservancy. It could be that there is overtopping or worse, it could be that waters are being released into these areas by the authorities but there is no evidence of the latter.

Another possibility for the high water levels in Mahaicony could be the siltation of the Abary River.

This was proffered in 2015 as an explanation for the then floods.

Prior to the construction of the Northern Relief Canal, the farmlands and residents along the Mahaica Creek were always under risk of severe flooding whenever water had to be released through the Lama and Maduni sluices.

When the East Demerara Water Conservancy reaches its capacity, the authorities are forced to release waters through the Lama and Maduni sluices to relieve the pressure on the conservancy dam because if the dam breaks, the consequences will be far worse for thousands than what is taking place in some other areas where the water has reached roof-level.

During the great floods of 2005 and 2006, water had to be released into the

Mahaica Creek from the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC).

Areas were underwater for weeks.

Some farmers never recovered. In 2012, waters again had to be released and some farmers decided to quit the area totally. It is not clear how many of them went back after the construction of the Northern Relief Canal.

The threat therefore is not only for the farmers of Mahaicony. The farmers of Mahaica are also under threat.

It is for the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) to convince the farmer and residents of Mahaicony that there have been no breaches of the conservancies. It is also for the NDIA to demonstrate that the Hope Canal has been effective in reducing the level of the EDWC and that the discharge is not compromised.

The NDIA should take the media on an over-flight of the conservancies since it would be too dangerous to go by boat. The media should be shown the level of water in the conservancy and show also the points where water is usually released when the level gets too high. An inspection should also be done at the seven-door sluice.

The farmers may be wrong. All of the Regions of Guyana have been affected and most of the water

Some people tekkin' up oil company fire rage countries and dem rich people in dem rich country.

Dem experts seh how de rich country does gat dem stooges fuh do dem bidding in dem poor country.

It look as if de Pee Pee Pee appoint itself as a bridgehead for dem oil companies wah ripping off Guyana.

De Pee Pee tekkin' up dem oil company fire rage.

Instead of dem gald dat people calling fuh a better deal, dem more worried about criticism of dem and de oil companies. Dem acting like pimp fuh dem oil companies.

De world nah change.

Dem foreign companies still ripping we off.

But unlike in de past when we had leaders who would ah stand up and criticise bad deals, it looks as if nuff of we leaders afraid to do dat or dem gat better reason why dem nah talk out against some of dem deals.

But dat is de way of de world. De rich people getting dem way because dem gat unofficial spokespersons in dem poor countries.

Talk half and listen to who defending dem bad oil deals!

appears to be coming from overtopping rivers, creeks and from the highlands. But when farmers say that they know the difference between rain water and conservancy discharges, they must be taken seriously.

They too are owed an

explanation because it is their livelihood at stake. In the past, the farmers have absorbed losses when water had to be discharged into their areas.

The least that can be done is for them to be assured that no water is being discharged

into their communities or that there is no overtopping of the conservancy.

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Tuesday June 08, 2021

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Those women groups: Psychological mess in Guyana I

n my Friday, June 4, 2021 piece, “Women g r o u p s a r e politicising and using race in exposing sexual harassment,” I outlined the some factual information about the signatures below to reinforce my point that those signatures are politically motivated because of anti-

PPP attitudes and association and relation with opposition parties like the WPA and PNC. Just to remind readers about the situation. Last Wednesday, these women groups consisting of the usual suspects (by now everyone in Guyana know who these pretenders are)

penned a letter in the newspapers calling for the h e a d o f S O C U , Superintendent of Police, Fazil Karimbaksh, to be investigated for allegations of sexual harassment. But weeks before, Karimbaksh's boss, the head of the Police Service Commission, Paul Slowe, was accused too.

These so-called women rights activists chose to ignore Slowe's case but wrote a long letter highlighting alleged misconduct by Karimbaksh.

In response to this egregious manifestation of double standards, I composed my column exposing them for using political and ethnic

criteria in their work.

Some of those Frederick Kissoon facts included Joycelyn Dow being the common-law wife of Dr. its page – the APNU+AFC's Rupert Roopnaraine and flippant disregard for the noBonita Bone who was the confidence vote and the five common-law wife of Ronald months of election rigging.

Waddell. I got a deluge of Can anyone tell me that this emails asking me how I can was just an oversight? It was omit other facts that would not.

Both dramas played out have made my case stronger. for long periods. The NCV Well, all I can say is thank you for the additional did not result in the information and put it down summoning of a general to forgetfulness because of election until 14 months age. Here are some details I after. The election rigging left out. A signature was lasted five months. This gave from Josephine Whitehead. the lady time to find She is the wife of the academics who would offer infamous Henry Jeffrey who their condemnations of the argued week after week in two travesties. But was the his Stabroek News column lady interested? One reason that the election result could could be that Canada is cold not be a genuine reflection of in December and since the how people voted because a NCV was in December, the bloated list cannot guarantee internet and telephones weren't working for her to a free poll. make contact with Guyanese I replied several times to academics wherever they Jeffrey's asininity with the were/are. point that the bloated list has As a reaction to my to translate into actual, column condemning them observable, detectable for politicising their antianomalies so the conclusion sexual harassment activism, of fraud can be proven. I even confronted him in one they penned another letter to of my columns with the the press this time naming o b s e r v a t i o n o f P e t e r Paul Slowe. Guyanese need Wickham that Barbados' to come to grips with the electoral roll has the same psychological mess this high numbers as Guyana's country has been in over but there has never been a several decades now. If it rejection of an election wasn't for my column, these so-called women rights results in Barbados.

I have been informed that activists would not have J e ff r e y w a s g i v e n a n publicised the allegations ultimatum by the Stabroek against Slowe leaving only News to prove election fraud Karimbaksh's name in the or refrain from mentioning public domain.

This psychological mess same in his commentaries. is manifested in extreme He has since disappeared ethnic and political bias that from the Stabroek News. I say good riddance to you is destroying this nation.

Civil society is riveted with know what. hypocrisy.

This hypocrisy I got an email reminding isn't your run-of-the mill me that one of the signatures is Dr. Alissa Trotz who is an kind. It is dangerous, almost e x e c u t i v e i n t h e evil. Can one imagine in any organisation, Overseas other country than Guyana, Friends of the WPA. Trotz is there is a human rights an intriguing Canadian organisation that never woman that Guyanese need uttered a word on a national election that was being to know something of. rigged in front of the eyes of That something has to do the world? with her presence in the These women rights Stabroek News. For over a decade now, she edits a groups were silent when a section of the newspaper 16-year-old girl and her titled “In the diaspora” in grandmother were beaten by which each week, she invites PNC thugs. Why? Because a commentator to do a they are Indian?

(The views expressed in column. this article are those of the “In the diaspora” has a u t hor and do not featured everything under the sun except two subjects necessarily reflect the that have never appeared on opinions of this newspaper.)

Tuesday June 08, 2021

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

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Tuesday June 08, 2021

Coordinated approach to Region 10 flood relief continues Some of the supplies intended for flood affected residents

T

he Civil Defence Commission (CDC) is working with stakeholders including Central Government, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils, Regional Democratic Councils, the Private Sector and NonG o v e r n m e n t a l Organisations to provide food, cleaning supplies and shelter to flood affected residents in Region 10.

This was underscored in a release issued by the Department of Public

Information yesterday.

It was noted that since May 18, last, the Commission received reports of more than 25,000 households impacted by flooding in m o r e t h a n 3 0 0 communities across Guyana. Kwakwani is one of the most impacted communities with a total of 90 residents evacuated to shelters, a process that is being managed by the CDC. The Aroaima Nursery and Primary Schools

Some of the residents who have been affected by flood waters

currently accommodate 36 residents, with 33 at Kwakwani Primary School, seven at Kwakwani Secondary School Hostel and 42 at Hururu Day Care Centre, the release added.

Earlier this month, President Irfaan Ali assessed severely affected communities along the Upper Berbice River in Region 10 including Lamp Island, Kwakwani, Bamboo Landing, Hururu Mission and Landern's Ville where he assured residents whose homes and farmlands are under water that the Government and stakeholders, including the CDC, will ensure that they receive water, food and health supplies.

To date, the CDC has dispatched 2,250 food hampers and 2,000 cleaning hampers to support affected residents in the Region. This is in addition to hampers distributed through Local Organs and Central Government.

During visits by Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Phillips, and Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, a total of 1,200 food and cleaning hampers were distributed to residents in areas including Rockstone, Coomacka, Spikeland, Old England, Three Friends,

Malali, Nottinghamshire, Muritaro and Kara Kara.

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security also distributed personal care and hygiene packages for babies, the elderly, women and girls.

Meanwhile, the release noted that the Ministry of Health has been

monitoring for water-borne diseases and has already dispatched a team to conduct assessment and provide medical supplies.

The CDC, it added, will continue to collaborate to provide relief to flood affected residents in communities in every region of Guyana.

Health Ministry records 2 more COVID-19 deaths

T

he Ministry of Health yesterday announced that two women who tested positive for the novel Coronavirus have died. As a result of this, the country's COVID-19 death toll has moved to 411.

The latest fatalities are that of a 70-year-old from Region Two (PomeroonSupernaam) and a 65-yearold from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica). Both

women died on Sunday while receiving treatment at a medical facility, according to the Ministry.

Further, the Ministry in its daily COVID-19 dashboard recorded 53 new COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of confirmed cases to 17,718.

A breakdown of new cases per Region shows that Region Four leads with 23 new cases, Region Three with seven, Region Two

with six, Region Nine with five, Regions Five and Seven with four each, Region Six with three and Region Eight with one.

The dashboard also shows that 17 patients are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit, 95 persons are in institutional isolation, 1,675 in home isolation and two are quarantined institutionally. To date, a total of 15,520 recoveries have been recorded.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 08, 2021

Pensioner perishes in New Amsterdam fire A

67-year-old pensioner, Martin Lindy of Trinity Street, New Amsterdam, is now dead following a conflagration at his two-storey wooden and concrete home on Sunday.

Kaieteur News understands that the fire started around 22:55hrs.

According to Lindy's s o n - i n - l a w, C h e i t r a m Maywahlall, 48, a driver of Lot 10 Glasgow Housing Scheme, East Bank Berbice, on Sunday, he received a call from a neighbour who resides next door to Lindy who informed him that the upper flat of the pensioner's home was on fire.

He said that he immediately called the New Amsterdam Fire Station. It was after the fire was

PAGE 13

The home of Martin Lindy after fire fighters extinguished the fire.

Martin Lindy was found dead in home

extinguished that the firemen entered the upper flat of the building. There they noticed the pensioner's body lying motionless in the dining room. Lindy was picked up and rushed to the New Amsterdam Public

Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival by the doctor on duty.

The building, which was not insured, was powered by the Guyana Power and Light Inc. The Guyana Fire Service is said to be

investigating in order to determine the cause of the fire.

Meanwhile, Lindy's body is at the New Amsterdam Hospital mortuary awaiting a post mortem examination.

Two killed in separate accidents at Loo Creek Village The minibus Mark Ault was driving on the night of the accident.

By Alliyah Allicock

O

n Sunday, Mark Ault, a father of three lost his life while three other persons were injured after they were involved in a three-vehicle collision along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

Yesterday too, another accident along the highway in the same vicinity claimed the life of another man who has since been identified only as “Coolie Joe.” He was reportedly killed on the spot.

This development was confirmed by the police.

According to reports, the man of East Indian descent was struck down and killed between 18:00 hrs. and 19:00 hrs. in the vicinity of Loo Creek Village along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

Reports suggest that the man was on a bicycle when he was struck down by a navy blue land cruiser bearing number plate GSS 7395. According to persons who were at the scene, the man was flung some distance away after he was struck by the vehicle. Due to the impact, he received injuries to his head and his left arm appeared broken.

Meanwhile, those injured in the accident that claimed Ault's life have been identified as 61-year-old Julian Elliot, of Central Amelia's Ward, Linden, Akeemo Elliot and Candace Gordon.

Public spirited persons According to police, the accident which claimed the helped to pull those injured life of Ault, occurred from the wreck and rushed sometime around 20:30 hrs. on the Dora Public Road also in the vicinity of Loo Creek Village.

Based on reports, Ault was driving his minibus on the western side of the road 57-year-old when motor car HC 9662, labourer attached driven by Lindon to the Rose Hall Lamaizon who was travelling in the opposite Estate and of Lot 32 Goed direction, entered the path Bananen Land, East Canje, of the bus. While trying to Berbice was found floating in swerve from the bus, the a trench in Goed Bananen f r o n t r i g h t s i d e o f Village, East Canje yesterday.

Dead is Devanand Lamaizon's car collided with the back wheel of the Ramoutar also known as bus which caused Ault to 'Shorty'.

According to the man's lose control of his vehicle.

As a result of this, the front wife, Hemwattie Boodhoo, he of the bus slammed into the would regularly consume right side of motor car PLL alcohol beverages. She said 3468 which was being that on Sunday at around driven by Julian Elliot with 14:30hrs, he left home for Gordon and Akeemo as Adelphi Village, East Canje, passengers. Due to the Berbice to fix his bicycle but impact of the collision, all n e v e r r e t u r n e d . persons in motor car PLL Around18:30hrs, his wife 3468 and the bus driver said that she went in search received injuries about for him. She did not locate him. their bodies.

The dead man's mangled bicycle at the scene of the accident

them to the Mackenzie Hospital. Upon arrival, 48year-old Ault was

pronounced dead while Akeemo and Gordon were (continued on page 17)

Labourer found floating in Canje trench

A

Dead: Mark Ault also known as 'Paper Man.' Kaieteur News was told that before that tragic accident occurred, the now dead man (Ault) was heading to his Lot 85 Republic Drive, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara residence from Linden after conducting his routine newspaper business.

At about 07:00hrs yesterday, Boodhoo and other relatives, including the man's son, Jainarine Ramoutar, continued the search and located his bicycle which was found bracing on a culvert about 12 feet off the public road at Goed Bananen Land.

However, the son claimed that he did not search the area.

Later that morning, Boodhoo went to the said culvert where she made checks and saw part of her husband's shirt in a trench next to the said culvert. She then alerted neighbours and his body was pulled up by two policemen who arrived at the scene.

Ramoutar's body, which was faced down in the trench, at the time was clad in a multi-

colour shirt and grey pants. A black slipper was also seen on his left foot.

The body was examined by police and a wound was seen above his left eye. A further search was conducted and a right side black slipper was found about three feet away in the trench from where the body was found.

The area was canvassed for CCTV camera but none was seen. Several persons in the area were questioned but no useful information was received, according to police.

Ramoutar's body was taken to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital to be examined and after this, it was taken to the Arokium Funeral Home where it awaits a post mortem examination.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Tuesday June 08, 2021

President commits to helping flood-affected Region 2 communities P

resident, Irfaan Ali, has promised residents of Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) to put all systems in place to ensure that they not only return to some level of normalcy but become better prepared to deal with flooding, which has affected several parts of the country.

In total, the Head of State visited nine riverine communities along the Pomeroon River – Karawab, St. Monica's Mission, Kabakaburi, Abrams Creek, Siriki, Jacklow, Martin Dale, Marlborough and Hackney— to assess the impact of rising flood waters that have been caused by heavy and intense rainfall over the last two weeks.

"We are going to do everything to secure back your livelihood. We are going to do everything to get you back to the farmland; we are going to do everything to help back the household," a Department of Public Information release quoted the President as saying.

ALL HANDS ON DECK Along with listening to the residents and having a first-hand assessment of the area, the President, according to the release, said that his visit was also to ensure that everything that can be done by the different arms of his Government is being done.

He stressed that this is not the time for the Regional Health Officials or the Agriculture Department and other Government agencies to be sitting in an office, but a

time when they should be out and on the ground providing 24/7 assessment and support for the flood-affected communities.

"I want to ensure that the different arms of Government are functioning and reaching you," he said.

The Head of State was accompanied by Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha; Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall; Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Godfrey Bess; Director-General of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig; Head of the

President Irfaan Ali during his visit to the Pomeroon

FULL REGIONAL AND GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

“

I am not here for fun and games. I am not here for laughter. I am not here as a joke. I am here because the concerns of the people of this country affect me. Regardless of which community you are from or regardless of any support you have for any other political party.

And I want to say this; the only way we can take things forward in this country is if we exercise some amount of dignity for the situation we are faced with. This is not a laughing situation our country is facing, that is the first thing we have to learn—exercising that dignity.

National Drainage Irrigation Authority, Lionel Wordsworth, representatives from region, including regional chairman.

and Mr. and the the

FULL ASSESSMENT President Ali explained that the CDC and the Ministry of Agriculture are going to do a full assessment after the water recedes.

However, as it stands, the

monitor the situation, and all the extension officers will be coming back here. I, myself, will be coming back here to work with the community so we can get our farmers to go back to the land. We know that is your livelihood, and you depend on it, and we will continue to ensure that we give you the necessary support," the Minister said.

”

President emphasised that the Government's priority is to ensure that affected communities are provided with food, medical supplies, and adequate shelter—since there is more rainfall forecasted for the coming weeks.

"If there is any need in terms of shelter, you have to talk to the CDC now so we can make those arrangements, and we have to ensure that you have access to primary healthcare

services that is necessary under flooded conditions."

The President also noted that while those are the immediate needs, the Government would also have to assess damage caused to farms as well.

"I am here because we care. We know the hurt you are going through, and we have to work together to bring help to you and the community.”

SERIOUS MATTER The President, who has witnessed the level of damage and difficulties the flooding situation has caused in other parts of Guyana, called on Guyanese to come together and work for a common purpose and understand the grave implications of the flood waters.

"I am not here for fun and games. I am not here for laughter. I am not here as a joke. I am here because the

concerns of the people of this country affect me.

Regardless of which community you are from or regardless of any support you have for any other political party. And I want to say this; the only way we can take things forward in this country is if we exercise some amount of dignity for the situation we are faced with.

This is not a laughing situation our country is facing, that is the first thing we have to learn—exercising that dignity.”

THOROUGH ASSESSMENT To enhance the drainage and irrigation, it was also announced that the area will benefit from its own pontoon and excavators.

Minister Mustapha said that the machines will stay in the region.

"The funds have been approved, the President has agreed, and we will purchase a pontoon with two excavators for the Pomeroon itself that will remain in the Pomeroon." He reiterated the President's point that every single farmer will benefit from the Government's assessment, adding, "We recognise the importance of the Pomeroon for the agriculture development of our country."

The Minister also explained that contracts are expected to be awarded soon for drainage throughout some of the communities—and those projects will begin when the floodwaters recede.

Community members will also be employed as a means of returning money to their pockets.

"We will continue to

Also giving an update was Minister Dharamlall, who told residents that they can expect full support from his ministry and the region as well. He noted that the ministry has been working along with the communities in the Pomeroon by sending health and food hampers as well as water tanks to store clean water.

"I know it is going to be a difficult next few weeks, and we hope that whatever you are doing, you are doing as a community. Please help each other during these critical times," the Minister added.

Minister Dharamlall also announced that the Government buildings in the communities would be opened if persons need shelter and that the Government will provide all the necessary resources.

"All we want for you right now is for you to be comfortable, and we will see you through this period."

The CDC DirectorGeneral, Lieutenant Colonel Craig, also spoke to the communities.

He explained to them the role of the CDC and the works they have accomplished so far in assisting flood-affected communities in the region and across the country.

Meanwhile, President Ali also implored the residents of each community to take their COVID-19 vaccines. He directed the regional officials to return on Tuesday to carry out a vaccination drive.

President Ali had previously visited communities in Regions Three, Five, Six, Seven and 10. During all of his visits, the President assured floodaffected residents that his Government's support would be continuous and that the current focus is ensuring that they are safe, secure and out of danger.

Tuesday June 08, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 15

PAGE 16

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Tuesday June 08, 2021

Kaieteur News

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Workers for P.S.G.C.S cleaner, labourers and maintenance workers Contact 621-6969/ 615-7784 serious inquiries only Experienced masseuse/cosmetologist required. Nalini's hair salon,225 New Market Street (opposite Maggies).

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Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic…

Global microchip shortage to cause increase in local prices for computers, other electronics Local businessman and proprietor of Starr Computer, Mike Mohan, is warning consumers of a global microchip shortage which is set to cause a significant increase in the price of computers and other essential electronics locally.

Speaking to Kaieteur

News over the weekend, Mohan said that the shortage of microchips is linked directly to the COVID-19 pandemic. He explained that most of the microchips are made in China and the United States, which have been severely impacted by the pan-

demic. He noted too that importers and dealers of electronics in Guyana have already started to feel the effects of the shortage.

“Already,” Mohan noted that, “importers and tech dealers have seen the price of certain electronic products in-

Proprietor of Starr Computer, Mike Mohan. crease by up to 40 percent due to the shortage of microchips. So as an authorised dealer of computer products, I felt like I needed to notify the public of the increase expected to hit the local market shortly.”

The businessman noted that since microchips “or the brains of the computer” are essential to numerous smart items including cars, toothbrushes, tumble dryers, and other essential home appliances and smart devices, the shortage will definitely affect millions around the world, who have become dependent on these products to carry out their day-to-day activities.

He said that “Guyanese will definitely be affected by the surge in prices since the microchip is an essential part of a number of important electronic devices, including the computers, smartphones, and tablets,” Mohan added.

According to Mohan too, the excessive price increase of 40 percent will particularly put a strain on the pocket of the average Guyanese seeking to purchase technology products, which would help them in their daily activities, especially in a pandemic, where a lot of activities are conducted virtually.

In the interim, the businessman said that Starr Computer will make every effort to provide new, regional authorised equipment with full warranty at affordable prices. He stressed that “shortages also create unscrupulous business behaviour to resell reconditioned and unauthorised products. Users are urged to do their due diligence when making purchases. We urge Guyanese to make efforts to acquire at least the basic computer with internet access to keep educating yourself and your family for the long term.”

Meanwhile, the businessman is lobbying for citizens to use every opportunity (Continued on page 17)

Tuesday June 08, 2021

Global microchip shortage...

From page 16 available to them to protect themselves from the deadly COVID-19 virus. In advocating for citizens to be vaccinated, Mohan revealed that Starr Computer has started a raffle where all persons who are vaccinated can enter to become the winner of a full computer package, which includes desktop computers, desks, chairs and other accessories.

“Your health is very important to us. COVID-19 kills and the vaccine saves lives.

We are all vaccinated at Starr Computer and we encourage

PAGE 17

Kaieteur News you to do so also. Starr Computer is raffling out one free computer package per month for the next few months for everyone who take the vaccine,” he said.

Additionally, the local tech solutions provider is encouraging persons to visit the company’s website to register and have a chance to win.

“We are also raffling separately one Lenovo 10” Tablet for all press personnel who take the vaccine.

Stop over at Starr to collect a form to complete and place in the drop box at Starr,” he said.

Two killed in separate accidents at Loo Creek Village From page 13 admitted for observation. Julian Elliot was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and was admitted in the male surgical ward suffering from a fractured pelvic and spine. Fifty-one-year-old Lamaizon was taken into custody where he is currently assisting police with their investigation.

When Kaieteur News arrived at Ault's residence yesterday, family members were sitting at a table still in shock and teary-eyed.

One of his close relatives, who requested anonymity, said that Ault normally sells newspapers in the mining town. He said that Ault has been selling newspapers for some 15 years now and because of that the people in Linden refer to him as “Paper Man.” This publication learnt that before Ault got into the newspaper business, he was an employee of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) where he worked for a number of years as an engineer. The former student of the University of Guyana and Port Mourant Training Centre, was the father of three daughters. He was described as a very nice, hardworking person of few words. He leaves to mourn his wife, children and other relatives.

An individual covers the remains of the man involved in last night's accident at Loo Creek Village.

PAGE 18

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 08, 2021

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 08, 2021

PAGE 19

GLDA producing 120 bags of feed per day for flood-affected animals

By Malisa Playter Harry

T

he Guyana Livestock Development Association (GLDA) is now producing mixed ration feed to be distributed to farmers with animals that have been severely affected by f l o o d w a t e r s .

Chief Executive Officer of GLDA, Dr. Grayson Halley, during an interview with reporters at the Skeldon Estate where the feed is currently being produced, disclosed that presently the Kookrit Savannah located in Black Bush Polder is severely affected.

Thousands of animals have been stranded due to the flood waters and many have died while others are starving.

He noted that approximately 20,000 animals need to be re-located and as such his officers who have been working on the ground are in the process of bringing some of the animals out. "Some that are pregnant or the ones that have calves and the weakened ones, we are trying to place them on the irrigation canal dams. So that is something we want to encourage at this point," Halley said.

Currently, the Skeldon Estate compound has over 15 acres of elephant grass, which is combined with bran and molasses to create the mixed ration. This process

The mixed ration being made with the machine

Dr. Grayson Halley

is done with a machine but requires manual labour to place the grass into the machine after which the endproduct is packed into bags for distribution.

But there are some challenges, according to Dr. Halley.

He said, "the logistics now to get feed there (Kookrit) by boat is a bit tedious, so if they can bring the animals closer to the road then they can be fed, but there is a downside.

Residents will complain that the animals are on the road and the dams are being damaged but we do have a commitment from the President to repair whatever dam that is damaged," he

Some cows trapped in floodwaters

stated.

Dr. Halley pointed out too that, thus far, the small-

scale cattle owners have brought out their animals but the large-scale cattle owners are finding a problem with finding a location for their animals.

The CEO noted that as it relates to the distribution of the feed, the response has been good and while "most of the people are preoccupied now and trying to figure out how to save the animals, some persons are

already giving their animals the feed because their animals lost weight overtime.”

He mentioned that persons have been donating bran and bran rice and these are being used and incorporated into the mixed ration feed.

Dr. Halley explained that giving the animals the mixed feed is nutritious when compared to giving them

strictly the bran.

"We want to give up giving too much bran by itself because the concentrate is 'gonna' cause bloating, if you mixing, it will be a more complete feed and we are also distributing molasses," he said.

GLDA is currently doing continuous assessments throughout Region Six especially in those areas affected by flood waters.

PAGE 20

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 08, 2021

Tuesday June 08, 2021

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Merciless Nadal marches into French Open quarter-finals PARIS (Reuters) Claycourt king Rafael Nadal overcame a wobbly start to subdue Italian teenager Jannik Sinner 7-5 6-3 6-0 yesterday and book a place in the French Open quarter-finals.

The Spanish defending champion, looking to claim a record-extending 14th Roland Garros singles title and become the only man to win 21 Grand Slam singles crowns, has won 35 consecutive sets in Paris.

World number 19 Sinner, who at 19 years old has been labelled as the next big thing in tennis, hit a brick wall on court Philippe Chatrier after leading 5-3 in the opening set.

Third seed Nadal will face Diego Schwartzman for a place in the semi-finals after beating the Argentine in the last four in the previous edition of the tournament.

“I played against a very

Rafael Nadal overcame a wobbly start to subdue Italian teenager Jannik Sinner.

Tuesday June 08, 2021 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) If you have ties to any therapeutic profession, Aries, you may make a strange discovery related to the health field today. You won't find this discovery in any book or methodology that you normally follow.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) It's like you have to do everything at the same time right now, Taurus. What you really need is an extra pair of hands and some additional hours in the day!

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Why do so many relationships seem to come with built-in booby traps, Gemini?

Today you may get a particularly pressing demand from someone in your family to give of your time or money.

CANCER(June21–July22) This is going to be a day to protect your sense of space and privacy, Cancer.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Expect to have to make some adjustments in your love life, Leo. You may be in a different frame of mind than your partner. Why not use the day to step back from the relationship?

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may find today a bit upsetting, Virgo. Your nurturing instincts genuinely want to assist the many people who ask for your help and advice, yet you can't shake the feeling that they're taking advantage of you

or trying to make you do things you don't want to do.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) How irritating to realize that those pesky problems from the past haven't been resolved, Libra!

SCORPIO (Oct.23–Nov. 21) Continue slowly and steadily, Scorpio. You may get all worked up over nothing because you want everything done at once! It would be a good time to prioritize what you really want to do.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) For a few months now, you've felt that things are accelerating in your professional life, Sagittarius. Perhaps some projects have developed more quickly than you anticipated.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) If by chance you have to speak in public soon, Capricorn, trust that people will enjoy listening to you.

Words come effortlessly to you, and you exude confidence.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Here is just the kind of day artists dream about, Aquarius. After yet another lukewarm reception of your artwork, an influential agent shows up and offers to place your paintings in one of the most prestigious museums in the world!

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You could be in the spotlight in the next few days, Pisces.

Try to resist succumbing to the applause of the audience, as

you may encounter some unexpected obstacles.

good player who has a great future and I’m very happy with the win,” Nadal said.

“I started playing well the first couple of games and then I played too defensive for a few games and gave him the chance to step into the court and play his shots. After that the match changed a lot.”

Facing the ultimate challenge on clay, Sinner struggled to get into the groove before cancelling out an early break as Nadal experienced problems with his first serve.

Sinner, who lost to the claycourt master in the quarter-finals here last year, found himself up a break after two Nadal double faults and a few uncharacteristic errors.

Serving for the set, however, Sinner lost the game to love and Nadal levelled at 5-5 on his opponent’s 25th unforced error before breaking

to love again to seal the opening set.

After losing eight games in a row, Sinner stopped the rot with a break, clinching it after rushing to the net to retrieve a drop shot and delivering a stunning crosscourt passing shot.Nadal quickly recovered to break again, however, and he served out to take a two-set lead before securing his 104th match win at Roland Garros.The Spaniard has not lost at the Paris Grand Slam tournament since 2015 when he was knocked out in the last eight by Novak Djokovic, his potential semifinal opponent.

Osaka withdraws from pre-Wimbledon...

From page 22 Grand Slam champion’s participation at Wimbledon later this month.

The decision comes after Japanese world number two Osaka pulled out of the French Open last week on mental health grounds.

“We have received notification Naomi Osaka cannot start in Berlin. After consulting her management, she will take a break,” Berlin event organisers said in a statement ahead of the tournament which begins on June 14.

Osaka has not revealed when she plans to play next, casting doubt on her participation at Wimbledon, which starts on June 28, and the Tokyo Olympics next month.

The 23-year-old released a short social media statement on Saturday to thank her fans for their support over her decision to withdraw from the French Open following a dispute over her refusal to attend press conferences.

Ninvalle promises NSC support...

From page 24 is discipline and works hard.

He stated that it is now important for Edghill to receive as much support as possible, so that she can be competitive in Japan and also at other tournaments.

Edghill thanked the Director of Sport for meeting with her. She is due to depart for Portugal, where she will set up camp in preparation for the Olympic Games.

The former Youth Olympian and Caribbean U21 Champion told Ninvalle of her many needs in order to fully focus on table tennis and representing Guyana at major tournaments around the world.

Ninvalle informed that the National Sports Commission (NSC) is looking forward to working with the GTTA in ensuring that she receives the support needed.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 22

Osaka withdraws from pre-Wimbledon event in Berlin Reuters - Naomi Osaka pulled out of next week’s Berlin W TA 5 0 0 0 g r a s s c o u r t tournament yesterday, raising doubts about the four-times (Continued on page 21)

Japan’s Naomi Osaka reacts during her first round match against Romania’s Patricia Maria Tig. (REUTERS/Christian Hartmann/File Photo)

Tuesday June 08, 2021

Schwartzman recovers from slow start to reach French Open quarters PA R I S ( R e u t e r s ) Argentine counter-puncher Diego Schwartzman overcame a sluggish start to book a place in the French Open quarter-finals with a 76(9) 6-4 7-5 win over Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff yesterday.

Despite arriving in Paris on a four-match losing streak, Schwartzman feels right at home at the claycourt major and has yet to drop a set in the tournament.

“I love this country, I love Paris. I think my best tennis is always here,” Schwartzman said in his oncourt interview.

“It was not a good clay season, but when I came the first day here I was feeling very well again.”

Schwartzman was uncharacteristically sloppy in the opening exchanges and littered the court with unforced errors, allowing Struff to break twice and take a 5-1 lead in the opening set.But the world number 10 soon found his rhythm thanks to some crafty shot placement and superb defence as he fended off seven set points before taking the first set.

Big-serving Struff never

Diego Schwartzman overcame a sluggish start.

quite recovered from that setback and was pushed around the court by a string of pinpoint groundstrokes from Schwartzman, who claimed a crucial break in the 10th game before taking the second set.

Struff, ranked 42nd in the world, rallied from 4-0 down in the final set but Schwartzman did not flinch.

The Buenos Aires champion broke Struff’s serve for the eighth time in the match with a superb backhand passing shot, sealing victory in just over three hours on Court Suzanne Lenglen.

Schwartzman will next face either Italian teenager

Jannik Sinner or 13-time champion Rafa Nadal.

The 28-year-old has suffered defeats in his previous two Roland Garros meetings with Nadal, including the semi-final last y e a r. “ I t h i n k a t t h e beginning of every match against Rafa, you have to walk on the court thinking to win the match,” Schwartzman said.

“If you think much about the four, five hours you are going to play, if you think about everything about Rafa in Roland Garros, he’s very difficult to play.

“It’s always a good challenge. I want to be there one more time.”

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 08, 2021

PAGE 23

Copa America drama eclipses World Cup qualifiers SAO PAULO (AP) — South American World Cup qualifiers involving bitter rivals Colombia and Argentina, and Paraguay hosting Brazil, are being overshadowed by a possible player revolt against taking part in the upcoming Copa America.

The South American tournament is scheduled to be played June 13-July 10 in Brazil. Copa America was originally set to be co-hosted

by Colombia and Argentina.

Colombia was forced to withdraw following social unrest and Argentina reportedly declined to host the continental tournament because of a worsening of the pandemic.

It will now be hosted by Brazil, even though more than 470,000 Brazilians have died so far from the coronavirus and analysts expect another wave of the virus to hit Brazil by late June.

On the field, Brazil leads the round-robin tournament with 15 points, four ahead of second-place Argentina. The top four teams automatically secure a spot at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

PARAGUAY vs.

BRAZIL The post-match news conference of Brazil coach Tite in Asuncion is more anticipated than the game itself. After the Seleção’s 2-0 home win against Ecuador, Tite said he and his players would make it clear whether they will participate in the next Copa America in a decision that mixes views on pandemic control and internal politics.

“We want to speak after

the match against Paraguay because we don’t want to lose our focus,” Brazil captain Casemiro said Friday.

Brazilian media reports say Tite could resign before the tournament begins due to disagreements with the country’s soccer confederation.

Supporters of Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro are calling for Tite to resign on social media. Bolsonaro has defied social distancing policies, claiming lockdown

further extended as the committee investigates the accusation. Bolsonaro agreed Brazil could host the South American tournament after a request from Caboclo.

COLOMBIA vs.

ARGENTINA A r g e n t i n a ’s s o c c e r federation says the team will be present at Copa America as a reflection of “its sporting spirit throughout history,” but did not make clear if the team’s top players, including Lionel Messi, will be at the tournament.

Brazil’s coach Tite looks on prior a qualifying soccer match against Ecuador for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 at Beira-Rio stadium in Porto Alegre, Brazil, Friday, June 4, 2021. (AP Photo/Andre Penner) measures kill more than the virus.

The government confirmed Saturday night that Bolsonaro had assured executives of South American soccer body CONMEBOL that Brazil will host the event no matter what.

Brazilian soccer confederation president Rogério Caboclo was suspended on Sunday for 30 days after an accusation of sexual harassment against him emerged. He denies any wrongdoing.

The suspension could be

“All the staff of the Argentinian national team will work in unity to overcome this adversity that, unfortunately, affects all of us South Americans equally,” the federation said.

It tweeted that it had received authorization to use its base in Buenos Aires for the tournament in Brazil.

“We will follow the mandatory arrival at the Brazilian host city on the day before the (Copa America) match,” it said.

About 5,000 fans are expected to attend Colombia’s game at the

Metropolitano stadium in Barranquilla despite still alarming coronavirus figures

in the Andean nation.

Also today, third-place Ecuador will face last-place

Peru. Venezuela plays Uruguay, and Chile takes on Bolivia.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

Ninvalle promises NSC support to Edghill as he recognises her accomplishments Table Tennis player, Chelsea Edghill yesterday paid a courtesy call on Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle at his Middle Street office. Accompanied by her mother, Deirdre Edghill and president of the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA), Godfrey Munroe, they engaged the newly appointed Director in

discussion of her preparation.

Edghill created history when she picked the International Table Tennis Federation’s lone global wild card sport for female players and will become the first player from Guyana, male or female, to feature for the country in the sport at the Olympics.

Ninvalle congratulated Edghill on not only creating history, but for also being recognized by Table Tennis’ global governing body as the player worthy of their spot in Tokyo, Japan.

Ninvalle noted that Edghill throughout her playing career, has been an exemplary athlete; one that (Continued on page 21)

Tuesday June 08, 2021

Coco Gauff reaches French Open quarterfinals, Olympics NBC Sports - Coco Gauff clinched the fourth and final U.S. Olympic women’s singles spot and, should she want to go to Tokyo, is set to become the youngest Olympic tennis player since 2000.

Gauff, 17, qualified after countrywoman Sloane Stephens lost in the fourth round of the French Open yesterday.

Later yesterday, Gauff won her own French Open fourth-round match — 6-3, 6-1 over Tunisian Ons Jabeur — to reach her first Grand Slam quarterfinal.

Gauff, who at Roland Garros became the youngest Grand Slam singles seed since Czech Nicole Vaidisova in 2006, is now the youngest Grand Slam quarterfinalist since Vaidisova in 2006.

Gauff was far behind in Olympic qualifying when the Tokyo Games were postponed in March 2020, but she’s been consistently strong this year, especially in

the clay season. Gauff overtook Madison Keys, Alison Riske and Jessica Pegula in recent weeks to claim the fourth Olympic spot.

Sofia Kenin, Serena Williams and Jennifer Brady previously clinched the first three U.S. spots.

Kenin and Brady confirmed this spring that they plan to play in Tokyo. Williams said last month that she hadn’t decided whether she will play.

If Williams declines, either Pegula or Riske will be next in line, depending on how far Riske goes in a grass-court tournament this week.

T h e U . S . Te n n i s Association can add up to two more women who can play doubles and mixed doubles in Rio. The U.S.’ highest-ranked doubles players are Nicole Melichar (ninth in the world) and Bethanie Mattek-Sands (No. 16).

Venus Williams, the most decorated Olympic tennis player in history with five medals and four golds, could also be a candidate.

Gauff is set to become the youngest Olympic tennis player since 2000, when Mario Ancic competed at 16 and Jelena Dokic at 17. She would be the secondyoungest U.S. Olympic tennis player ever after 16year-old Jennfier Capriati, who took gold at the 1992 Barcelona Games.

Gauff said in May she’s pleased with the progress made since her breakout Wimbledon run nearly two years ago. Before that tournament, she was the 37th-highest-ranked American just starting on a senior-level career.

“During that time people were saying, it’s a fluke, it will never happen again,” Gauff said in May. “I think I’ve proved all those people wrong. I’m going to continue to prove them wrong.”

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 08, 2021

PAGE 25

FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Qatar 2022

‘Golden Jaguars’ and ‘The Blue Hurricane’ confident of ending on a high; promises an entertaining match

By Franklin Wilson in Antigua with the compliments of the GFF and Industrial Safety Supplies Inc.

A

potentially e x c i t i n g showdown between Guyana’s ‘Golden Jaguars’ and Puerto Rico’s ‘El Huracán Azul meaning The Blue Hurricane’ is anticipated here at Warner Park, Basseterre, St. Kitts from 16:00hrs when the two nations collide in the final match of their respective FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, qualifying campaigns today.

Neither have a chance to advance to the next round of qualifying which spot has been taken by the still undefeated St. Kitts and Nevis which has 9 points from three matches and will contest their final game against Trinidad and Tobago from 17:00hrs today in the Dominican Republic; the Kittians will be going all out for a clean sweep of Group F. Guyana had opened its campaign on the back foot going down to Trinidad and Tobago 0-3 but rebounded to beat the Bahamas 4-0 in their two matches in the March window. Their first game in this June window, contested on Friday last saw the ‘Golden Jaguars’ losing to St. Kitts & Nevis, 0-3.

The Guyanese are now aiming to end on a high against Puerto Rico today.

The Puerto Ricans started off in March by losing 0-1 to St. Kitts and Nevis, followed by a 1-1 draw with Trinidad and

Tobago; they then rattled the Bahamas 7-0 on June 2nd, l a s t .

Both teams are in the rebuilding process as the respective Coaches stated in yesterday’s pre-match press conference, each having an average age of 22/23. The respective Captains, Golden Jaguars’ Matthew Briggs and The Blue Hurricane’ Sidney Rivera expressed confidence that they can pull off a win to end on a high.

Briggs reminded that it’s a new generation of players that the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is investing in for the future.

“So we are in the transition of bringing all the players together with some experience and some youth, so that what’s we’re going to keep building towards and progressing the squad and getting better and better as we go on with training and w i t h g a m e s .

Obviously we are disappointed to not go further in the world cup qualifiers but we are looking forward to tomorrow (today) and we are going into the game 100%.

We are just looking forward to this game and preparing for the Gold Cup against Guatemala.”

Puerto Rico’s Captain, Sidney Rivera: “Obviously we wanted to go further in the tournament, the qualifiers but things happened and you got to learn.

Every game it’s more experience that we get as a team and we just want to play

Golden Jaguar Captain Matthew Briggs (with ball) will be looking to lead his team to victory in his 2nd game at the helm. (Franklin Wilson photo) good and get the three points and hopefully go further, the n e x t t i m e . ” Head Coach Márcio Máximo said that, this match will be competitive, noting that they will respect their opponent whilst reminding that his young team will form the core of his squad for the Concacaf Gold Cup preliminary match against Guatemala, next month.

His opposite number, Dave Sarachan, a former US soccer player and Coach also spoke to the process of grooming young players into the Puerto Rico first team. ”I’ve enjoyed this process, you know we had games in March, we have these games and just to add to what Coach Máximo had said, the process is important to have good competition and

respectful competition. Two teams that like to play and I think tomorrow (today) you’re going to see two teams that will compete and try to play football the proper way; and that’s the way you do it in group play, you finish o u t s t r o n g . ”

Also sharing yesterday’s presser was new Golden Jaguar, Osafa Simpson who made his debut against St’ Kitts & Nevis on Friday last.

The lanky forward said that it was always his dream to don national colours at the senior level and now that he has,

he’ll be working hard to be a constant feature in the side.

Meanwhile, today’s match would be streamed live via the Guyana Football Federation facebook page compliments of Blue Water Shipping, one of the GFF’s official partners.

P&P Insurance Brokers on board with Chelsea Edghill

Márcio Máximo - Guyana’s SMNT Head Coach. (Franklin Wilson photo) Ms Jaya Panday (left) hands Ms Jaya Panday (left) hands over the cheque to Chelsea Edghill.over the cheque to Chelsea Edghill.

P

&P Insurance Brokers yesterday made a financial contribution to Chelsea Edghill to assist in her preparation for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

The presentation was made at P&P Offices at 273 Lamaha Street Georgetown.

In brief remarks, Ms Jaya Panday, Account Executive

of P&P Insurance, said that P&P was very happy to support Chelsea and wished her all the best.

She said P&P has an outstanding record in the discharge of its corporate social responsibilities and this Presentation is just another manifestation of it.

Ms Panday also congratulated Ms Edghill on

all the hard work she has been putting in and said that she was sure that Chelsea will make Guyana proud.

In response, Ms Edghill thanked Ms Panday and P&P Insurance and promised to do her very best. She also remarked that over the years, P&P Insurance has consistently supported table tennis.

Ninvalle promises NSC support to Edghill as he recognises her accomplishments

Coco Gauff reached the French Open quarterfinals and US Olympics team.

Director of Sports Steve Ninvalle and Chelsea Edghill during a visit at the Sports Commission.

Coco Gauff reaches French Open t r o quarterfinals, Olympics Sp FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Qatar 2022

‘Golden Jaguars’ and ‘The Blue Hurricane’ confident of ending on a high; promises an entertaining match

Guyana’s ‘Golden Jaguars’ during their final training session yesterday at Warner Park. (Franklin Wilson photo)

P&P Insurance Brokers on board with Chelsea Edghill Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.