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UN Human Rights Tuesday Edition p.

Committee should 12 NEWS hold Guyana to account on Exxon’s flaring - Transparency Bodies

AIETEUR

June 30, 2020 - Vol. 13 No. 26

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

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Granger agrees with Lowenfield’s report * hopes for declaration by weekend p.

3 resents all threats of sanctions *

Go on the side of democracy and concede - Former Pres. Ramotar tells Pres. Granger

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Guyana is the seat of Caricom - Harmon to Ex Bajan PM, Owen Arthur

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Respect CCJ ruling on recount - Caricom private sector body tells Guyana’s leaders

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Travis Chase Claudette Singh will Bess replaces p. 11 not actively participate vehicle torched p. in CCJ Elections 11p.

West as in Ministry’s 2 Appeal Case - lawyer - arson army head - Nandlall says move is considered standard best practice compoundconfirmed Incoming Chief of Staff Godfrey Bess

Outgoing Chief of Staff Patrick West

Media not invited to see how, where and what, $1 Billion being spent on Ocean View retrofit walk through...

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Kaieteur News

PAGE 02

Tuesday June 30, 2020

Travis Chase's vehicle gutted by fire in ministry compound - Arson confirmed Chase's burnt vehicle and the damaged Ministry bus

A

brand new H o n d a C RV belonging to popular television journalist, Travis Chase was torched yesterday within the Ministry of Public Service' compound on Vlissengen Road and Durban Streets.

The SUV was reportedly set on fire at around 02:45hrs.

The security guard on duty explained that she had not seen the person responsible because there was a heavy downpour of rain and the area

of fence which he jumped was very dark, in addition to sucker trees looming over the area.

The Fire Department has concluded upon investigation that the fire was deliberately set, hence making it an act of arson, with a flammable liquid being used as an accelerant.

CCTV footage in the compound showed the fire being lit on the hood of the vehicle and eyewitnesses also confirmed seeing the alleged

perpetrator with a container scaling the fence.

Chase relayed to Kaieteur that he had asked to park the car in the compound at nights for security purposes and he would usually remove it by morning so that the ministry staff could park.

He stated that he has been doing this for years as he is living close by.

When asked if he can think of any motive for the arson, Chase related that since he is an investigative

journalist that can very well be the reason.

The fire has also damaged a ministry bus that was parked near Chase's vehicle as well as the car of the ministry's mechanic and a motorcycle belonging to another ministry employee.

The entire shed was left scorched as well as the fence area and the ministry's sign outside.

Further investigations on the matter are being carried out by the police.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 30, 2020

PAGE 03

Granger agrees with Lowenfield's report - hopes for declaration this weekend - resents all threats of sanctions

By Shikema Dey and Mikaila Prince

A

rguing that he resents the threats of sanctions from external actors and commentators, de facto President David Granger says that he expects a declaration of the elections results by this weekend, based on Chief Election Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield's latest report showing a Coalition win.

Granger in an interview on Benschop Radio last evening claimed that he fully supported the report submitted by Lowenfield, citing that the CEO's report, took into account the “possibility of the

contaminations” of the votes due to “anomalies and irregularities” in the March 2 electoral process.

Following the ruling handed down by the Appellate Court in the Eslyn David et al case that “more votes cast” must mean “more valid votes”, the CEO handed in a report to the Commission, disregarding the directive given by Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) C h a i r, R e t ' d J u s t i c e Claudette Singh to use the figures accumulated at the end of the National Recount.

Instead, Lowenfield used alternate figures, taking the win from the Opposition and handing it to the governing Coalition while also

dumping 115,844 valid votes.

Granger reiterated his four-stage 'breakdown' of the recount process, stating that the next stage would be for the GECOM Commission to deliberate and then proceed to a declaration.

“The fourth and final stage which we all hope is gonna be soon is that the Chairman will make a declaration based on the report submitted by the CEO… hopefully, by this weekend, we can announce to the Guyanese has been brought to an end and a President will be declared,” the President said.

He claimed that the report prepared by the CEO,

was not only based on “tabulation” but consideration was also given to the “anomalies” alluded to in the report done by the three-member CARICOM Scrutineering Team, who overlooked the National Recount process.

“If you view the recommendations of the CARICOM Team,” Granger said “you would see how serious this issue is. For example, the team recommended an investigation into missing documents; it also recommended a total reregistration of all voters in Guyana.”

What the report actually said was that while there were “instances of

Guyana is the seat of CARICOM - Harmon to Ex Bajan PM, Owen Arthur

By Kemol King

A

PNU+AFC campaign manager, Joseph Harmon has said that he is surprised at statements being made by “former Prime Minister” about the possibility of Guyana being expelled from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), as Guyana is the seat of the CARICOM Secretariat.

Harmon's comments, made on Sunday during an interview on the Linden radio station 104.3 Power FM, and broadcast to several stations across the region, are seen as a response to the Head of the Commonwealth Electoral Observer Mission and former Barbados Prime Minister, Owen Arthur.

Arthur had told Kaieteur Radio on June 12 that Guyana could become a pariah state if it does not follow the necessary procedures to ensure the conclusion of the electoral process in a democratic manner. At the time of that interview, the recount had already concluded, showing the PPP/C to be the clear v i c t o r. H o w e v e r, t h e APNU+AFC camp had already labeled the elections not credible and the recount results unacceptable. Arthur had said that the avenue for an aggrieved party to go would be an elections petition in Court.

“If you go ahead and seek

APNU+AFC campaign manager, Joseph Harmon

Commonwealth Observer Mission Chief and Former Bajan PM, Owen Arthur

not to follow those processes,” Arthur had explained, “Guyana could be suspended from CARICOM; Guyana, if it came to that could also be expelled from CARICOM. Those would be tremendous decisions that would not be entered lightly.”

“We are the seat of the CARICOM Secretariat,” Harmon countered on S u n d a y, “ a n d I t h i n k sometimes people forget that when they make statements about Guyana, can be expelled from CARICOM. Some of these statements, I really am surprised that former Prime Ministers and people like that can make statements like that. We are

the original, original signatories to the treaty that established CARICOM.” Arthur had also pointed to consequences for Guyana's Commonwealth membership, building on a statement made by the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group, that any Government sworn in without a credible and fully transparent vote count and tabulation process would lack legitimacy. “ T h e r e a r e consequences,” Arthur had said “by being a member of the Commonwealth; it is not just a political act, you are a beneficiary of technical and other assistance. The Guyanese elections were

conducted with technical assistance from the Commonwealth. And you could become a pariah state and you could be suspended.”

Currently, the country faces a fourth attempt to hand a victory to the coalition, which does not reflect the will of the voting public, as expressed on March 2 and certified at the recount, whereby Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield is seeking to dump 115,844 valid General Election votes on claims that those votes are not credible.

The CCJ hearing scheduled for tomorrow is expected to provide a pathway forward towards resolution.

irregularities”, the majority of which were raised by Coalition Party Agents during the recount process, the team “does not view the irregularities identified, amounted to sufficient grounds to invalidate the tabulation of the votes at the recount and therefore these irregularities DO NOT constitute sufficient grounds to challenge the integrity of the recount process.”

Further, the CARCIOM report stated that “We found no intentional miscounting of the ballots which would constitute an election fraud necessitating further action…Nothing that we witnessed warrants a challenge to the inescapable conclusion that the recount results are acceptable and should constitute the basis of the declaration of the results of the March 02, 2020 elections. Any aggrieved political party has been afforded the right to seek redress before the courts in the form of an election petition.”

Granger stated also that the CARICOM team report, “recommends that the structure of the Election Commission be changed, the present structure will not work and it finally

De facto President David Granger recommended that given all the irregularities which occurred during the period of the electoral cycle, we highly recommend that a political audit be conducted in the operations.”

What the CARICOM team report had said in this regard was that, “While GECOM is described as an independent body, it is undoubtedly a political Commission, and herein lies most of the problems, the paralysis, and the factionalism experienced by that body. The level of internal discord which is acutely manifested in the public posturing of individual Commissioners is the norm in Guyana and unfortunately was on full and ugly display in the 2020 (continued on page 24)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 04

Tuesday June 30, 2020

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

Peace and acceptance are highly unlikely

Rogue state sanctions – two sides of the coin DEAR EDITOR, As I see it, Guyana is hurtling down the road towards the status of a pariah state, a rogue nation. That is one side of the coin only, with the other largely ignored in this country, by many who believe they know, but displaying how little they really know. I place both sides on the table for consideration.

The penalties of a pariah state are worth repeating, if only for emphasis. At the top of the list is the prime target of our oil funds.

It is vulnerable to freezing indefinitely. With that held in punitive suspension, gold exports could be next in line.

It is a major foreign exchange earner, employs a lot of people, brings in much taxes to the state’s coffers.

Next, exports to Guyana on a range of essentials could be held up. I submit that the longstanding application to the World Bank for a measly US$5 million speaks for itself.

Then, companies doing business, or wanting to do business with us, could be warned from continuing to do so. The result is that imports could be slowed to a trickle.

On this last note, it is becoming apparent that some medicines have slowed from companies located in

In the space of a handful of short days, all the talking and arguing, all the running around and appealing above our heads, will be over. There will be no more counting and tabulating, no more positioning and delaying, no more outside counsels and foreign wisdom to provide blueprints to guide us forward out of our elections paralysis. We would be left with ourselves, to face each other, to decide how we are going to coexist with one another. How we are going to live with one another. Just us Guyanese, now all alone after a brutal time, one that has battered us with countless devastating storms.

The pieces have to be picked up. The shards of our individual selves (our hopes and dreams), the shreds of our political visions (alternately triumphant or defeated), and the crumbs of our personal and national resolve (whatever is left of it) all have to be collected to put us back together. Taken together or separately, there can and will be pain of unequalled agony. And from that, there is either acceptance of the fate that comes, the peace that could accompany it. Or the opposite. It does not look promising, for we have been hostile and at war with each other for too long. But now, this is no longer of words and postures, or about transparency and credibility, since all of that is gone, as in behind us, in some disputed, unsettled form. What is before us, with all wells dry, and all roads ended, is reality.

The Guyanese reality is grim. To lift the shroud that blankets this nation in darkness requires the best of us in peace and acceptance of what waits, what comes soon in a few days.

We are hurting and from that there could be blind lashing. At anyone and anything within reach, since peace and acceptance are the last things on our tortured minds, our traumatized existences. However favorably viewed, we, as a nation of diverse peoples, have grueling challenges lurking, because somebody is going to lose.

Whoever loses will automatically conclude that the most blatant thievery has occurred right under the nose, the greatest wrongs have been done and they destroy. Since they destroy, there is nothing to lose, nothing left to live for in hope and joy and responsible citizenship.

In this harshly divided and most seething of political and DEAREDITOR, social environments, acceptance and peace, and peace and Recent revelations in sections moving on do not sit well. There are so such thoughts, less of of the media have such interests, the worst of impulses that flow unchecked, and demonstrated that all is not for good reason. Hearts already harbour too much heavy well in the de facto coalition distrust and poisonous bitterness, and from those flow the administration. In the midst of hates that electrify us so effortlessly in this society. the de facto administration’s The CCJ will speak its wisdoms, but each half of this attempt to steal an election by country will only be listening for what pleases it. And when any means possible, and, on those wisdoms are found displeasing, then there will no longer the eve of the public hearing at be any listening, any acceptance, any peace. No matter at the International Court of which judicial place the wise CCJ jurists arrive, all journeys Justice in the case concerning lead right back to the chairwoman of GECOM, Ms. Claudette the 1899 Arbitral Award Singh. And, for all intents and purposes, it is right back to the (Guyana vs Venezuela), de impasse of square one. That is, somebody is going to lose, facto Prime Minister, Moses and that is not liked. One political side, one racial set of Nagamootoo took it upon people, within this one country, will have absolutely no use for himself to go public, firing as anything, any word, any position, and any conclusion that it were, on all cylinders on dares to tell the tidings: they have not won. They have lost. sensitive foreign policy From this, there can be no peace, no acceptance. We struggle matters not realizing that his to think, and to understand, how it could be different. casus belli would be a Some pretense at peace may follow, but it will not be colossal error of judgement. genuine, merely the phoniest peace practiced in smoldering According to Nagamootoo; resentment. Such resentments can incinerate. It may be the “Guyana has been used as self-control required, the safety of streets, the tranquility of communities, the promise of the future. Or it can take a different form, through the continuing wearing down that comes from structured resistance, holding hostage the economy, bringing most, especially the many poor, lower on the knees. Less planting, less importing and exporting, less paying of taxes are within the potent arsenal of bloodless destruction.

Either way, and regardless of the degree of intensity brought to bear, the damage done for this and the next generations are already done and assured. This is what stares in the face, in the face of winning and no conceding by one side, and of victory and democracy, on the other. This is Guyana currently, and it is one in which peace and acceptance seem the most unlikely of circumstances. We wish it were otherwise, but it is where we are.

Western countries that are operating on a wait-and-see for filling orders from Guyana.

I have had examples of the scarcity of certain items.

Local importers say that their foreign business partners are telling them that they have been ordered to hold off until our elections impasse is satisfactorily overcome. It should be noted that I have said nothing about targeted sanctions, such as visa denials and travel restrictions; or freezing of personal bank accounts and the like.

I am more concerned about withholding of necessary expertise and vital technology required to build infrastructure and develop existing and new industries.

When taken together, these could form a punishing and persuasive combination of hard and soft sanctions meted out to leaders and nations that thumb nose at the world community.

But this is only one side of the story. It is of what is called-for and hoped-for by political opponents thwarted, with some justification according to their considerations. As a quick aside, the option of figuring out a way forward from where we are stuck is too easily and doggedly dismissed.

I regret that

position. I also regret that, when we are faced with the existence of contradiction, the reflexive action is to dismiss one side of the trouble.

I regret still further that there is no investment of time and genuine effort in figuring out some makeshift arrangement that offers the space for continuing on a temporary basis, while a more permanent solution is finalized. So, we are trapped in this political quagmire that raises the specter of sanctions, and from which I go to the unrecognized and unspoken aspect of the Guyana story. It stands in opposition to sanctions; at least the hard levying of them.

There are powerful and visionary men in Washington, who look at their backyard and see two countries existing side by side. They appreciate a few things: 1) the largest proven oil reserves in the world; 2) the most promising new oil frontier in recent times; 3) the existence of a socialist political ideology in one country and all that that has meant and could mean for America in a worst case scenario; 4) the prior personal actions of Guyanese leaders in the opposition and the trust that such fostered; 5) the known

ideological inclinations of Guyanese oppositions figures; and 6) the specter and latent threat of a RussiaChina axis taking firm hold in the two countries.

I submit that c o m p r e h e n s i v e consideration, of those six realities, has to feature strongly in American calculations. Amidst all the talk about democracy, credibility, and sanctions, this is the other side of the coin. What and who are inimical or beneficial to American vital strategic interests.

This is what matters and bears the heaviest tonnage.

As I wait to see which card will be played, I notice that the US Ambassador has gone quiet of late. I heard, too, of President Granger sharing publicly something about commitment to Western Hemispheric values and furtherance of “mutual goals and ideals.” I read this as a timely signal to the US that in him, David Granger, there is a trusted ally, a genuine working partner.

Perhaps I am reading too much into things. But as my fellow Americans like to say: this is where the rubber meets the road. Soon we will know who stands where and with whom.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

Pacification and assuaging the Western countries must be viewed as too little, too late collateral damage in an obsession to effect regime change in a neighbouring country”. He went on to say; “You have foreign powers using us as a pawn in a geostrategic game that they have mapped out in their own interest.”

And as though that was not enough, Nagamootoo continued; “It may be good to serve their geo-political interest but that does not give them a right to interfere in our internal affairs to such an extent that they have created a problem and they have tried to influence the outcome of these elections.”

Nagamootoo’s claim is spurious. In effect, without recognizing it, and by his own admission, he asserts that his de facto coalition administration is comfortable with the modus vivendi it has established with a regime that is anathema to the western powers.

Advancing a questionable intellectual assumption and a psychological predisposition typical of an émigré from the

PPP, the Prime Minister claims that the US administration wants the APNU+ AFC out of the way, replacing it with a PPP/C Government which will be used as a proxy to get rid of the Maduro regime.

This was clearly a misguided, untimely and unwarranted attack on the Western countries more particularly, the United States. The tone and content of Nagamootoo’s statements are reminiscent of the Cold War era, a period in which he was imbibed with Marxist milk and where he forged his overweening ambition.

In defiance of any rational explanation, the lame duck Prime Minister, based on what he said, views every statement by the Western powers in respect to Guyana as a threat to be countered.

Mr. Nagamootoo fails to recognize that in the case of G u y a n a , t h e We s t e r n countries are not seeking to replace a democratically elected government and to install an authoritarian

regime, it is the other way around. Asarefugeefromthe PPP to the welcoming embrace of the PNC, Nagamootoo became susceptible to the kindred belief that when the chips are down the best defense is to attack. His approach is totally out of sync with international comity in an era characterized by radical transformations in international relations.

But Nagamootoo is not alone in committing this colossal error. He is part of the unholy family who, within recent times, has displayed ignorance of the practice that diplomacy is, as the experts put it; ‘A communication process between political entities.’

Inthatregard,itis not so much the messenger as it is the message. Apart from the recent xenophobic attacks on distinguished CARICOM leaders, we are now being fed the contemptuous perfidy that; “Guyana is not a colony of CARICOM, or any global or hemispheric body.”

(Continued on page 5)

Tuesday June 30, 2020

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

The Valid Votes Recounted and An election is arithmetic Certified by GECOM are Credible Votes DEAR EDITOR, Lowenfield’s claptrap declaration report to the Commissioners on June 23, 2020 is an extension of transparent attempts at rigging Guyana’s March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

From the twice proffered Bingo numbers for Region Four offered by undergraduate Mingo to the incomprehensible computations by selfpromoted constitutional office holder Mr. Keith Lowenfield; the duo has made inapplicable, any floor to irrationality.

In straining to stain some valid votes as not credible, while other valid votes passed his smell and word tests, Lowenfield has taken the meaning of words to new depths, he has shown that foolish acts are not

constrained only to stupid people, with his pronouncement that only 344,508 were valid votes, instead of the approximately 460,000 valid votes as per the Statements of Polls and Statements of Recounts.

Here Lowenfield’s bizarre and perverse actions invalidated 115,787 votes, which he conceived and calculated, fall within his selfinflated constitutional authority.

The computations by Lowenfield, if having a shred of logic, would have stunned the Greek mathematician Pythagoras and certainly surpassed in its stupidity and crassness, Guyana’s 2019 global math farce - that 33 is not a majority of 65.

We all know that Mingo and Lowenfield were not acting alone, and we also know these individuals are not

stupid. They are simply part of a rogue group, trying to steal the elections and disenfranchise over 233,000 voters, similar to what Prime Minister/President Burnham did multiple times during his governance, based on rigged election results, using any means necessary; in just as callous, crass and clumsy manner as President Granger is attempting to do now.

President Granger may consider this comparison to President Burnham as a compliment! Such is the pervasive syndrome of an entitled mind. Damn the disenfranchised!

As we abide by the orders of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) and await the rulings from Justice Adrian Saunders, President of the CCJ, we look forward to rulings that have all the necessary gloss and detailed

points to present an iron wall against word twisting and deliberate misinterpretations by our “Caretaker Government”.

P a t r i c k Wintour, Diplomatic editor of the UK Guardian Newspaper, noted on Saturday June 27, 2020 that: “There are signs that Granger will not recognise the court’s jurisdiction, placing the international community in a dilemma.” My belief is that major enablers in the Caretaker Government have never agreed with President Hoyte accepting defeat in Guyana’s 1992 General Elections; and sanctions or no sanctions, will not allow a democratic transition of governance to the PPP/C, the party that clearly won the March 2, 2020 Elections, based on valid votes cast.

Nigel Hinds

Applaud Guyanese Rally against racism DEAR EDITOR, I write to applaud Guyanese Americans who rallied against racism earlier this month in Richmond Hill, Queens, dubbed as “Little Guyana” and other protests. The Richmond Hill rally condemned police violence against minorities (people of colour) that drew global attention following the police killing of Black American George Floyd in Minneapolis; hundreds of (Indo) Guyanese reside in that city since the early 1970s.

There is a moral commitment to support against racism and injustice because Guyanese are also victims.

The anti-racism rally at Independence Square, Liberty Avenue (what a name) was organized by community advocate Vishnu Mahadeo of the NY-based Guyana Diaspora Council.

People from different groups were brought together under one umbrella thanks to the work and leadership of Mahadeo and others. These different ethnic groups perceive each other positively and they cooperate and interact with one another with the hope of lifting lives in the community.

The organizers and speakers spoke out against police violence because they feel obligated to do so, an issue of human value in which minorities were killed attacked by some police officers whose lives were not under threat.

The George Floyd protests have evolved into a movement against racism and police brutality against people of colour all across

America.

The Richmond Hill speakers also condemned protesters who were involved in looting, arson, and vandalism.

Properties and thriving businesses, belonging to Indians, Blacks, Asians, and other minorities were destroyed by looters. While praising those who were involved in protest rallies against racism in America and supported the struggle for racial equality, Mahadeo and other speakers condemned the violence. He also appealed for support from the Indo-Caribbean community in America in the struggle against racism and violence perpetrated by law enforcement.

Mahadeo, Dr. Dhanpaul Narine, and other speakers were strong in their condemnation of racism in America. They urge the IndoCaribbean community to be sensitive to and support the intense feelings regarding the police killings of people of colour.

They called for just policing, an end to racial prejudice and racial disparities that exist throughout institutions in America.

The killing of Floyd and several other use of force by police against minorities, including an Indian American in the South, have sparked conversations among Americans and even internationally on police use of force especially against minorities in the US. There is institutionalized state sanctioned racism in America in which people of

colour are victims; even some people of colour are racist towards other people of colour. Indians and Asians, for example, are the target of attacks of other minorities for being a model community.

Government has not been able to successfully redress the negative feelings, perceptions, thoughts, beliefs of groups of people against others particularly immigrants of colour like Guyanese.

It is important for Guyanese living in the US, along with other immigrants, to show support for the current wave of “Black Lives Matter” protests against racism and the police killings.

Dr. Narine joined the call for an end of abuses against minorities. Guyanese come to the US and are enjoying the liberty and quality of life and we must give solidarity and support to the strugg l e against injustice.

Fundamentally changes to tackling systemic racism is needed but Guyanese need to join the coalition against it. Guyanese for example, are denied a legislative seat (in the Council, Assembly, Senate, Congress) in Queens because of gerrymandering practiced by other ethnic groups that make deals amongst themselves to exclude powerless groups.

The politicians of other ethnic groups are in charge of drawing up electoral seat boundaries and as such they divide the strong Guyanese communities of Queens into five or six seats diluting the power of their vote to deny

them any chance of being elected in any seat.

The Floyd killing and response to it has created a perfect storm to raise issues pertaining to Guyanese.

There is a growing sense of commonality among victims of racism and the recognition that this must change.

But Queens based Guyanese must immerse themselves in the struggle.

They must support those of us involved in the fight for justice, civil rights, people rights, and human rights.

Those who organized the Richmond Hill rally are applauded for his work. More must join this movement for equality.

Yours truly, Dr. Vishnu Bisram

DEAR EDITOR, I believe this piece titled “An election is arithmetic” captures some aspects of the issues currently at hand.

An election is arithmetic But tricksters would like us to believe otherwise An election is arithmetic It is not whether you miscalculated By sitting on your ass For five years Because you thought Forfeiting the people’s oil wealth Would bring you victory An election is arithmetic It is not whether a green house Is somehow better, than A red house When our architectural history And our future Are left to rot In the rising Atlantic An election is arithmetic It is not whether the opposition Is worthy Or worse, than They were before An election is arithmetic It is not a time for your lawyers To buy time When Guyana is already living On 50 years of wasted time An election is arithmetic It is not an obscure exercise To prove whether 33 Is bigger than 32 Or were you unsure Whether it was 4,000 Or 7,000

Families you threw onto the streets An election is arithmetic It is not whether you stand to lose Your seat In a Land Cruiser Or a Lexus When your level of public service Deserves you sit on a bike An election is arithmetic It is not whether the winner Will give you a job A job you know you do not deserve Or whether you will have to suck Salt For the next five years An election is arithmetic It is not whether the winner Will steal our oil wealth Or forfeit 55 Billion US dollars Like you did An election is arithmetic It is not a beauty contest Between Mother Therese and Stalin Or between Forbes and Cheddi An election is arithmetic It is not whether you can create An alternative To adding up votes For region four Or whether you perfected Burnham’s dictatorial tactics Tactics you seem intent On unleashing Against this grotesque stunted Baby of a nation Regards, Jan Mangal

Pacification and assuaging the...

From page 4 Enter the de facto President.

No doubt, taking advice from Bart Fisher, of the lobbying firm, JJ&B LLC, Mr. Granger jumps in, attempting to placate the Western powers.

Coming in the wake of a strong statement by US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, calling on Granger to “concede defeat and to begin the democratic transition of power,” and fully aware of the impending case of the Guyana vs Venezuela border controversy at the ICJ to which the US government has publicly declared its recognition of Essequibo as an integral part of Guyana’s national territory, Mr. Granger engages in self-serving double talk to wriggle out of the messy situation in which

he has found himself thanks to his Prime Minister and more recently, his Campaign Manager.

Contrary to the feral blasts aimed at the western countries by his Prime Minister Mr. Granger’s message to them was one of appeasement.

In an interview, Mr. Granger was forced to backpedal and to; “Reaffirm Guyana’s commitment to Western Hemispheric values and to the furtherance of mutual goals and ideas.”

The de facto President pleaded saying; “The United States is a friend and has worked closely with Guyana over several decades...”

He went on to say that; “Guyana’s strategic interests in the Western Hemisphere were not in jeopardy...”

Mr. Granger’s effort at pacification and assuaging the Western countries must be viewed as too little, too late. The damage was already done in light of his coalition’s vitriolic attacks on the United States and Canada, and leading public figures in both hemispheric states as well as the Organization of American States, the premier inter-governmental organization in the Western Hemisphere.

Mr. Granger must realize that in his dealings with others he cannot approbate and reprobate.

Guyana is a signatory to the Inter-American Democratic Charter. The government of the day is obligated to honour the Charter to the hilt.

Yours faithfully, Clement J. Rohee

PAGE 6

Tuesday June 30, 2020

Kaieteur News

Seafarers - an essential workforce DEAR EDITOR, To the many citizens of our country, Seamen and seafaring has only recently been put under the spotlight with the advent of our oil and gas industry, which is much to my satisfaction, but throughout my many conversations with my fellow citizens, there still remains uncertainty and misinformation about this industry.

H o w e v e r, t h i s i s understandable and it is my duty to help educate my fellow citizens, to gain a better appreciation for this industry that is and has always been a necessary service/goods provider to our nation and all countries around the world.

All countries worldwide import goods such as Farming and Mining Equipment; Household Amenities; Food Items; Clothing; Building Materials; Medical Supplies; Fuel to operate Power Grids and Production Industries, via the sea route.

To many, these items may

seem insignificant but let me hasten to add that some countries do not have an Industrial Manufacturing Sector that can produce these essential items, which by no fault of their own may be caused by the unavailability of natural resources, and should the shipping industry come to a halt, we would starve for these very items, and even stagnate as a country because of shortages of what we sometimes term as “everyday goods”.

Many people do not realize that more than 80% of the world’s trade is carried by sea (www.imo.org), and without the daily/weekly shipment of these supplies, many countries would face severe consequences. And this is why the old saying that “the sea is the giver and sustainer of life”, holds true from the beginning of time to this day.

At this time in our World’s history, we, as the world at large, are facing the existential threat of the Covid-19 virus, which has become a crippling pandemic threatening our

very way of life, and everyone has banded together to do our best against this deadly pandemic.

We have utilized every available means and method available to battle this virus on every front, and it is up to us to be thankful to all of our essential workers who are on the frontline in this deadly war.

But sometimes, we do not recognize our other equally essential industries who are silently facing and backing up our frontline workers, and the important service they render us and by this I mean our shipping industry.

I proffer this thought to all readers - medicine and medical supplies are being shipped daily at record number and speeds at this point in history to all parts of the world. It is with the gravest of considerations that I ask this question - what would happen if even for a day this integral and essential shipping industry was held up and medical goods could not be delivered? What would be the effects?

I cannot even begin to fathom the immense ricochet effect this would have on the world at large, and this is why I crave that special emphasis and care be placed on this industry and by extension on the back bone, heart and lifeblood of this industry- the Seafarers.

I hasten to inform that some seafarers were contracted to work on board vessels for some 6-8 or more months prior, and would have completed their sea service at or around January 2020, which is when China began instituting lockdowns, of which the world was to soon follow.

This would have halted the many crew changes that would have occurred at that time.

We are now in June of 2020 and some five months would have passed since the initial lockdown, which means some seafarers would now have been on their respective vessels for some 11-13 months due to travel restrictions, not at home with family but 11-13 months on a

More than a conspiracy theory – foreign influence DEAR EDITOR, In the throes of the mighty drug and money laundering trades, when the dirty captains of commerce were hailed as exemplars of ‘progress and development’ I repeatedly warned that a price will have to be paid for such a bargain with the devil.

I did so right in this paper, while political men laughed.

That was approximately 13 years ago and afterwards.

We have paid some prices before. Gold shipments banned. Men executed in the streets. Phantom squads rising to represent law and the sanctity of conducting commercial activity freely and securely. Major national institutions corrupted beyond hope. Even our places of worship, our neighbourhoods, our schools were infiltrated. We shrugged in public and smirked privately. Many of those smirking-politicians, peasants, professionals-were beneficiaries. But those all fade into insignificance when I weigh what is going on today. It is our way of life, our governance system, our future all placed at risk in plain sight, and yet we say we don’t know; or fake studied ignorance.

Before I proceed further, I am not a follower of conspiracy theories. I follow wherever my mind leads; and have equipped myself by dint of hard discipline, continuing observation, harder experience, and still harder knocks to look at an outline

and see a picture; sometimes it is so overpowering that it cannot be denied. They call it connecting the dots. I like the mosaic theory more.

There are many truths relative to this season of elections in Guyana, with one paramount truth: MONEY dominates.

MONEY is king. MONEY make men walk a certain way, fulfill certain roles, and succeed in incredible objectives.

Because of this, I have had to reduce the huge contributions of race, cult following, history, and ancestry and party allegiance, among other pivotal ingredients. I left behind corruption and leadership failures, of which there was much on both counts. I take money and make it the center piece of our crassly ruptured politicians.

Lobbyists and politicians are like the pimps and prostitutes, who need each other for a variety of reasons.

In legitimate circles, ExxonMobil operate this way and succeeds handsomely. In dark circles, men with darker money, have nothing to do but splurge on wine, women, song, and the horses, and watch their backs while so engaged. The real operators in this netherworld, however, are businessmen of substantial prowess and with the visions to go with it. This country was securely locked in their clutches, compliments of the opposition first, and much lesser during the coalition’s tenure. The latter

is bad for business and progress; bad for personal freedom; bad for personal power now limited; bad for a place in the rich oil universe.

The questions were and are: which is the better option?

Who has a more encouraging history? With whom was there closer relations, through access to power (paid for) and resulting influence? And with whom, are the prospects better for doing business in oil Guyana?

Over and over again, it is the opposition which easily comes out ahead.

Remember: money is king; it makes good men walk and talk a certain way. Men with billions in US stashed away and who cannot put them to use need a national outlet.

There is no better place than Guyana with the PPP in control.

The money talked here recently: political financing to the tune of billions and more available. It is a wise investment for the future.

And nothing but a PPP promised future would do.

Paying for newspaper and television space was not a problem.

Building a powerful supporting local cast through a network of private operators, political voices, commercial partners, marketers, and media presences, just as lavishly facilitated. Pressing foreign people in government to join the chorus becomes one more objective delivered.

For sure, there are no

fingerprints at the crime scenes that the FBI, DEA, or Interpol would recognize.

That is why there are middlemen scurrying about, who go under the banner of lobbyists and pundits. If they can convert climate change into heresy, then credibility and democracy are just another well-paying assignment. Ballot paper can be manufactured; party agents compromised into collusion; and look how much of a paragon is a former regional PM made to appear.

The money can remind (endlessly) that Moses was a murderer; and the killer Saul of Tarsus could have a Damascene conversion. The former is what the coalition leader has done with the future; and the latter is how the opposition headmaster is remade.

Which one is better to do business with: less regulation, more protection, more freedom, more returns?

Opposition, hands down.

Which group has hindered and hurt recently? The coalition, stupid! And which party offers the perfect covers to be major players in Guyana’s oil lottery? I leave the answer to that one to our local wise men.

Once I titled a piece, “Control of the country has passed.”

Look at the juggernaut(s) steamrolling the coalition and decide: conspiracy theory? Or connecting the dots?

Sincerely, GHK Lall

floating metal contraption measuring approximately 50300ft in length and 10-50ft width, with minimal access to family, comfort and support, and with an average work day of 8-12 hours day in day out, month in month out; a full 1113 months of scheduled wake, eat, work, sleep, repeated ad infinitum.

Now, take a moment to imagine that... With lockdown being as uncomfortable as it is for all of us who are ashore, imagine how it must be for Seafarers and even their families who ha v e b e e n without them during this trying period. Mental health is important and to have our essential personnel face such an enervating situation for 1113 months with almost no end

in sight, is agonizing.

My only request is that Maritime Authorities the world over be more proactive in effecting crew changes for the wellbeing and comfort of our essential human resource - the Seafarers, as they create and enact guidelines and laws in this Covid-19 era, or we may begin to have extremely undesirable experiences when it comes to the physical and mental wellbeing of our Seafarers as they carry out their respective duties onboard.

We need to conscientiously embrace that human touch in dealing with our Seafarers, even as we observe the new normal of social distancing.

Garry Palmer, Marine Cadet Officer

When democracy wins, everyone wins DEAR EDITOR, Time to Move Forward and Do What’s Best for Guyana The Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) calls on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to fulfill its constitutionally mandated duty and declare the winner of the 2020 election as soon as the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has made its ruling.

Guyanese citizens have demonstrated admirable restraint and patience while the election process and its results have been subjected to many stages of overview and review prior to verification.

After intense scrutiny, the CARICOM Observer Team declared that they were of the “unshakeable belief that the people of Guyana expressed their will at the ballot box on March 2.” To the great credit of our Nation, all International

and CARICOM observers have vouched that Guyana’s 2020 election process was free, fair, and credible. The Guyanese people should be proud of this accomplishment, for when democracy wins, everyone wins.

Now it is time to honour and respect the will of the people as expressed by the majority of the electorate at the polls. It is time to move forward and work untidily for the well-being and success of the entire nation.

CIOG calls on the Guyana Police Force to uphold the rule of law in a responsible manner while simultaneously monitoring and addressing any inflammatory actions in order to serve and protect all Guyanese citizens.

Respectfully, Shahabudeen Ahmad President, Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana

Something has gone awry DEAR EDITOR, Something has gone awry with the DEM BOYS SEH column that I once looked forward to reading for the writer’s wit ensconced in creoles’. It used to be tonguein-cheek critical of members of the Government as well as members of the opposition.

Something has changed: it is now a nasty, slanted column that takes political sides. Nothing supports my claim like the one published on June 29, 2020 with the subtitle: “Soulja Bai Name Gon Change to Rigadier.”

At one time, the ghost writer behind this column was

not obviously an APNU/ AFC supporter or a PPP/C supporter; it was a GUYANESE who thought both parties were fair game for lampooning. Now? It is obvious that whoever’s penning “Dem Boys Seh” is a PPP/C supporter or one with sympathies for that party.

If the anti APNU+AFC slant is the new tone prescribed for this onceamusing column, I fear it stands to backfire badly.

Talk half, lef’ half.

Sincerely, Harold A. Bascom Guyanese playwritingnovelist & artist

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 30, 2020

PAGE 07

Go on the side of democracy - Former Pres. Ramotar and concede tells Pres. Granger

By Mikaila Prince

F

ormer President Donald Ramotar is calling for de facto President David Granger to concede to losing of the March 2, General and Regional Elections, and to pave the way for the wellbeing and success of the entire nation.

During an interview with Kaieteur Radio's Room 592 programme last Friday, Ramotar – who lost a second term bid to Granger in 2015 – lamented over the electoral impasse which the country has been caught in for over 100 days, along with the grave impact that that has imposed its citizens.

“Our country is suffering tremendously,” Ramotar said, “and people are hurting, businesses are hurting. He (President Granger) has a direct link to the current political state of the country and he can play a role by conceding that the APNU+AFC have lost the elections for us to have a civilized and peaceful transition.”

Calls for a declaration to be made on the results of the

recount continue to mount.

Last week, four influential senators on the United States Senate Foreign Relations Committee just days ago called on Granger to concede. In support of the CARICOM team's findings, calls for a declaration to be made on the results of the recount have also come in a joint statement from the diplomats representing America, Britain, Canada, and the European Union.

These were followed closely by similar statements from the Organisation of American States (OAS), the Commonwealth, the Kingdom of Norway, and Nelson Mandela's Elders Group. Locally, calls for Granger to concede came from several religious organizations, including the Arya Samaj community and t h e C e n t r e f o r I n t e rReligious Dialogue.

“I want Mr. Granger to think about the harm they, the APNU+AFC, are doing to the country by the resistance that they are putting up,” Ramotar said.

Ramotar pointed back to 2015, when the party he led, the People's Progressive

Party/ Civic (PPP/C), had lost the 2015 general and regional elections by some 5,000 votes. Even as he maintains that those elections were “rigged”, Ramotar nonetheless, took the opportunity to reflect on the importance of him conceding to his party's loss.

“I know of the impact and harm that some of these things can have on a country,” Ramotar said, “We have seen it in the past with other elections, as well as the way the citizens of the country suffered as a result of it. So, in 2015 when the elections commission announced the election results, I thought that it was more important for the country to move forward, than for me to fight and to just stay in power like that.”

He went on to say that following the declarations he “immediately” held his last meeting with Cabinet where he asked his ministers to cooperate with the winning coalition so that they could have a “smooth transition” into government.

Against this he said, “We even set up a small team to work with the APNU+AFC

Greenidge underscores need for int'l protection in Venezuela case - Says sovereignty about people, not party

By Kemol King

F

ormer Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge last evening explained that Guyana needs the protection of the international community in the case against Venezuela, hence it was inappropriate for persons to censor or “shout down” foreign leaders in the region for voicing opinions on Guyana's elections.

Greenidge who is serving as Guyana's official agent in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) – Arbitral Award of 3 October 1899 (Guyana v.

Venezuela) said that the human rights principles on which Guyana requests the support of the international community against Venezuela are the very principles which allow the community to make

Carl Greenidge pronouncements on Guyana's electoral impasse.

He said that the rights of the people of a country to sovereignty need to be separated from the rights or actions of a political party.

Greenidge's comments came during a live interview on the

APNU+AFC Facebook page, during which he spoke extensively about the case.

The matter of the Court's jurisdiction to resolve the matter is set for a hearing today, during which only Guyana will present arguments, as Venezuela has decided to boycott. Guyana anticipates a decision on the matter of jurisdiction by yearend.

If the Court decides that it has jurisdiction, it will move on to hear the case and decide whether the 1899 boundary that separates the two states, is a lawful and permanent boundary, such that the Essequibo region is confirmed as an integral part of Guyana's territory for all time.

“We need, as a small state,” Greenidge said, “the protection of the international (continued on page 23)

for a smooth transition towards a new government and not to have any type of disruption. I asked my ministers at that last meeting to make themselves available for any questions, as the APNU+AFC may have and to pass over some of the unfinished business that we were doing. I asked them to return their cars and whatever property.”

Ramotar is of the view that the Coalition has lost all of its regional and international support, as he referenced stern statements that were issued onto them from regional and international bodies like CARICOM, the United States and the European Union.

“If they are mad enough not to concede, then the consequences will be severe.

They can face penalties and sanctions, and it could be devastating,” he warned.

Noticeably, a Washington-based political consultant, José Cárdenas told reporters on Saturday that he thinks Granger will do the right thing and demit office, to avoid sanctions from the US. However, APNU+AFC campaign manager Joseph Harmon was quick to dismiss all of those statements in his interview on Sunday on Linden radio station 104.3 Power FM.

Former President, Donald Ramotar

De facto President David Granger “Concede to what?”

Harmon asked, “Concede to who? What is he to concede to? It appears to me, I'll venture to say any right thinking person, to be a most ridiculous and nonsensical proposition.” Harmon said that calls for Granger to admit defeat are coming

from “a narrative which has been overtaken by time… in view of a report submitted by the Chief Elections Officer to the Guyana Elections Commission…”

N o t a b l y, H a r m o n ' s comments are the first response from an executive of the Coalition to the numerous calls which have been made for Granger to admit his loss.

“Go on the side of democracy and concede,” Ramotar appealed directly to Granger in the interview.

PAGE 08

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 30, 2020

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 30, 2020

PAGE 09

Blow her mind!

I

met a friend a few days ago. He looked all stressed out. I asked him what was the problem, and he replied that he just could not decide what to give his partner as a gift.

Here was a guy who was not short on cash.

He could buy whatever he wanted. The problem he faced is that he did know what to buy. He could not choose the appropriate gift that would express just how he felt.

I know quite a few men who have the same problem.

My advice to them always is to do something that would blow their partners' minds impress them overtly. Do something that would have them all starry-eyed. In the process, you may also be doing something for yourself.

There are some women who feel that you can best

show your love by the type of gift you give to them. The more expensive the gift, the greater is the love.

I know quite a few men who dig deep into their accounts to buy that super expensive gift for their loved ones. If that is what it takes to blow their partners minds, well, so be it.

This reminds me of an older, white haired Guyanese who walked into a jewellery store one Friday evening with a beautiful young lady at his side. He told the jeweller he was looking for a special ring for his girlfriend. The jeweller looked through his stock and brought out a $50,000 ring.

The old man said, “No, I'd like to see something more special.”

At that statement, the jeweller went to his special stock and brought another ring over. “Here's a stunning

ring at only $400, 000,” the jeweller said.

The young lady's eyes sparkled and her whole body trembled with excitement.

The old man, seeing this, said, “We'll take it.”

The jeweller asked how payment would be made and the old man stated, “By cheque. I know you need to make sure my cheque is good, so I'll write it now, and you can call the bank Monday to verify the funds, and I'll pick the ring up Monday afternoon.”

Monday morning, the jeweller phoned the old Guyanese man. “There's no money in that account.”

“I know,” said the Guyanese man, “But let me tell you about my weekend!”

Some years ago, I wrote an article about blowing a woman's mind. It was a big hit on feminist blogs. I ended that article with the

..........................................................

Dem boys seh...

Rig-adier claim de whole world lie pun he

W

hen a man lie to a woman too often, de woman does get suspicious over anything he do. Is de same ting with de guvment.

Dem lie to de people so often dat de people nah trust dem.

If dem fart de people does think is a explosion.

De HAP-New+HAYEff-See don't want come out from office. So dem lying to dem supporters and dem families telling dem all kinds of nancy stories. Dem tell so much lies dem forget what dem say yesterday.

Dem tell so much lies dat anything dem do, de people get suspicious. Yesterday, dem announce a new Chiefof-Staff of de army. Fuss was Best, then was West.

Now is Bess.

Some people get jittery when dem read de news.

Dem feel dat is part of a plan fuh de army tek over de

K

country. But dem boys wan tell them dat duh can't happen. And nuttin like dat is going to happen.

Soulja Bai or 'Rig-adier', as he is now being called, gat to fight all de media houses, dem foreign countries and sure as day will get sanctions from CARI-Gone, Cum-onWealth, and de rest of de world including de A, B,C, D and F to U countries, including de EU. He and he boys dem seh de whole world lie pun dem.

De man wha dem pick fuh become de Chief-ofStaff is a professional soulja.

He is a good man who gun ensure dat de army stay under civilian rule and na do anything that is illegal and unlawful.

He know weh he new seat deh. Lil Joe can't say de same. Lil Joe seh dat de CARI-Gone must know dat it seat deh in Guyana. Dem

Boys want he fuh know dat at least CARI-Gone gat a seat.

Dem boys ain't know wheh he seat deh. It no longer deh in de Office of de President. And dem boys nah sure whether 'Riga-dier' gun gun give he a seat in de National Assembly.

De 'Riga-dier' living in Disney Land. He playing Mickey Mouse with de elections. Dem boys hear he seh he only accepting de Lolo man results. He nah realize he nah gat no say in de declaration.

Is de Commission dat gat to declare de results and he gat to accept what declare just like he used to seh he would do. But dem boys believe he now talking in he sleep.

Talk half and wait fuh see if 'Rigadier' was fooling de people when dem tek out de picture of he praying.

Correction

aieteur News wishes to clarify an article which was published in its June 27, edition titled, “City Mayor introduces rates and taxes amnesty for rest of year.”

Persons are advised that the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) have decided that it will not charge interest on the General Rates and Taxes for

2020 only.

C i t y M a y o r, U b r a j Narine, highlighted in a Facebook post, “In light of the foregoing, I wish to put on record that there is no amnesty on the General R a t e s a n d Ta x e s f o r individuals and businesses, but only a waiver of the interest on the said taxes for the year 2020.

Therefore individuals and businesses will be required to pay their rates and taxes for 2020, but no interest will be charged on those payments.”

For further information, members of the public are encouraged to contact the office of the Town Clerk via telephone number 2267717.

following observation: When men are courting and they are serious about a girl, they are on their best behaviour. They shower her with gifts, say the nicest things, and are always kind and considerate.

But no sooner does the wedding ring go on the finger of the bride that her suffering begins.

Some men suddenly begin to take their partner for granted and at times will even try to belittle theirwives in front of their friends .

I urge all the men in Guyana to treat their partners with respect. Pamper them and make them feel loved and wanted.

One night, I watched an

interview on NBC with Billy Bob Thornton. He was speaking about his ex-wife, the stunning Angelina Jolie, and he took all the blame for their split. He told the interviewer that it was entirely his fault. Then when he was asked why the two split up, he said it had nothing to do with his unfaithfulness.

He added, “I was afraid of her. She was too beautiful for me. She was too smart for me. She had too much integrity for me. I felt so small next to her.”

That line, sincere and exact, would blow any woman away. No woman could ask for a greater compliment from a man,

even one that she is divorced from.

I believe that most women would rather have love and affection than the most expensive gift in the world. The greatest gift you can give a woman is your undying love and respect.

Blow her mind, not by the value of the gift, but by the value of the love and respect behind it.

(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 30, 2020

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

From colonial subjects of England to colonial subjects of the PNC M

ake no mistake about it; life is about all types of humans some of whom are so full of themselves that maybe they cannot distinguish a certain lower part of their body from an upper part.

It was Shakespeare who wrote the line below; “But man, proud man Drest in a little brief authority, Most ignorant of what he's most assur'd.”

In what they think they will receive plaudits for, some fools fitted out in selfdeluding knowledge have submitted that Guyanese are being treated like colonial subjects by foreign actors in the way they have pronounced on rigged elections. This is just not ignorance of what you think you know; this is morbid delusion.

Foreign governments, including our own CARICOM sisters and

brothers, have saved this country from being the colonial subjects of a party that wants to rule Guyana forever. At least we fought the English who showed no intention of wanting to rule us forever. The PNC, their surrogates and the little fools dressed in brief authority want us to be the PNC's colonial subjects once more.

Here is a little story most people in Guyana may have a passing knowledge about.

They would have no direct knowledge because about 70 percent of our population is forty years of age and under.

There was once a leader of Guyana named Forbes Burnham.

Burnham never embodied the embrace of the Guyanese people because he couldn't win a free election so he rigged all the elections from 1968 to 1980. When he died his successor, Desmond Hoyte engineered the worst fraudulent national poll until

Mingo and Lowenfield, APNU and the AFC came along in 2020.

So in effect all those born after 1968 were the colonial subjects of Burnham. He decided everything about Guyana without consulting anyone. His insanity reached its climax when in addressing his party comrades in 1976 at his party headquarters in Sophia, announced that he is giving legally authority to his party the PNC over the actual state itself. At that congress, he put a name for such an arrangement, “paramountcy of the party”.

In the sixties in the US, there was a popular slang word used to describe people who have no substance but are fakes. The term was “jiveass.” A leader had to be a jive-ass to declare his party had legal authority over the state itself and that party could not win a general election. This was

frightening because it meant that state security, judiciary and public servants had to take instructions from persons in the PNC since the PNC was higher than state institutions. Guyanese became the colonial subjects of the PNC. Those who are full of themselves think they can mask their support for PNC rigging of elections by claiming that CARICOM, hemispheric governments, the US, Canada, the EU and the UK are treating us like colonial subjects. Now witness carefully the banal masturbation of those who cry about foreign interference. The emphasis is on foreign interference but no mention of rigged election by Mingo, Lowenfield, PNC and AFC. This is not only banal masturbation, it is immoral masturbation, because in effect is telling us that we must reject our colonial masters in foreign lands and accept our renewed colonial master – the PNC. So we will still end up as colonial subjects. We will never be free. I used the word, “renewed” because we were

once colonial subjects of Forbes Burnham and his PNC. It was only the death of Burnham and the pressure of democratic countries that allowed us to vote after 1992 and have those votes counted.

Now those who are crying about re-colonization like ACDA and the surrogates of the PNC who want the foreign actors to stop treating us like colonial subjects, are serious, they are dead serious. They know that their party cannot get back in power and their man cannot be sworn in as president because it is these foreign actors that are refusing to allow the PNC to colonize us again.

What is sickening about these hypocrites is their sickening dishonesty. You may not like David Hinds but

Frederick Kissoon the guy is honest and straight forward. He has taken a side.

He says that he wants the election to be declared in favour of APNU because he doesn't like the PPP. You can fault him for accepting rigged elections but you cannot knock him for being a jive-ass. The other jive-asses don't have the courage to say that they don't accept the results; they want APNU+AFC in power. So they masturbate in front of the world, using the sheet of foreign colonial denunciation.

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

Tuesday June 30, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

Kaieteur News

PAGE 12

Tuesday June 30, 2020

UN Human Rights Committee should hold Guyana to account on ExxonMobil's flaring W - Transparency Bodies

hen Guyana's authorities appear this week before the United Nations Human Rights Committee (UNHRC), they should be made to account for ExxonMobil's reckless burning of over nine billion cubic feet of gas for more than six months say two transparency advocates.

Justice Institute Guyana (JIG) and the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) are both arguing that Guyana's officials need to be grilled on ExxonMobil's flaring as it poses a threat to the right to life, in addition to other oil developments and potential consequences.

Kaieteur News would have reported that ExxonMobil's projects could lead to oil spills that would inflict grave environmental harm along the coastal region and even on Guyana's regional and continental neighbours.

In offering her take on this matter, CIEL's Senior Attorney, Erika Lennon remarked that Guyana started the clock on a carbon bomb when it started oil production in December last year.

She said that the immense gas flaring seen over the last

months is merely the first sign of the harm to come.

Lennon said too, that the emissions that will be unlocked by the extraction and burning of Guyana's vast offshore oil and gas reserves, and the risk of an oil spill or blowout, threaten the rights to life and livelihoods of present and future generations in Guyana.

Guyana's Elections Along with the dangers associated with the ExxonMobil's development activities, CIEL and the JIG are also concerned about the fact that Guyana's 2020 elections are yet to be concluded.

They have also noted that the struggle to hold on to power is fueled by the false promise of oil riches.

Expounding further, the two transparency bodies said that it is more than 100 days after the country went to the polls, and it is still waiting for a transition to a democratic government.

The transparency

advocates recalled that, last week, Guyana's Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield unilaterally discarded more than a quarter of all votes cast in the election, prompting widespread condemnation both inside Guyana and from the international community.

Ta k i n g t h i s i n t o consideration, international lawyer, Melinda Janki, who represents the Justice Institute, said it is clear that oil production threatens the right to life of present and future generations.

Janki opined as well that it undermines democracy and the right of the Guyanese people to take part in public affairs through freely chosen representatives rather than representatives chosen as a result of unlawful conduct by government agents.

In this regard, Janki said that the various attempts by Clairmont Mingo, the R e t u r n i n g O ff i c e r f o r Region Four and by L owenfield to declare fraudulent results are an egregious violation of the free

CIEL President, Carroll Muffett expression of the will of the Guyanese electors.

Janki said that these latest developments add to concerns that after being delayed nearly a year, the declaration of election results in Guyana will be fraudulent and will disenfranchise the Guyanese people, in violation of their rights under domestic and international law.

In agreement with her colleague, Lennon said that the dual environmental and democratic crises the country faces are critical issues that the authorities

International Lawyer, Melinda Janki

must be made to address when they face the UNHRC this week. Kaieteur News understands that the body meeting this week is tasked with monitoring countries' implementation of their obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

Its review of Guyana's human rights record follows on the heels of similar monitoring conducted by the UN Committee on the E l i m i n a t i o n o f Discrimination Against

Women in July 2019, and a peer review undertaken by other member states in the UN Human Rights Council in January 2020.

Those processes highlighted concerns that Guyana's pivot to an economy based on largescale fossil fuel extraction will undermine human rights and the country's existing commitments to combat climate change, noting, in particular, the disproportionate impacts of global warming on women and children in the country.

Shuman’s utterances on Kaieteur Radio exposed us to contempt and ridicule - ERC

T

he Ethnic R e l a t i o n s Commission (ERC), which investigates complaints of racial and other slurs, has criticized recent utterances of the leader of the Liberty and Justice Party, Lenox Shuman.

The comments were said to be made on June 25 , 2020, during a radio programme on Kaieteur Radio 99.1/99.5fm and also streamed on Facebook, “His utterances have been reposted via social media numerous times and have exposed the ERC to hatred, contempt and ridicule.

Such an attack against the Commission is defamatory in nature.

Any reasonable person hearing the words uttered by Shuman would come to the conclusion that his proclamations have brought the integrity of the Commission into disrepute,” the ERC said in a statement yesterday.

The Commission said the statements directed towards it are not only an untruth but it is the type of “sensationalism” th

which, during this tense election period, has had damaging repercussions against the execution of the constitutional mandate of the Commission.

“The Commission assures the public,” the statement noted, “that it takes pride in operating in the interest of what is just and fair and it is a reflection of safeguarding the concerns of all Guyanese. Its standard operational procedures exemplify impartiality and transparency.” According to the Commission, it undeniably supports an articulate and free press which contributes to the good tenets of a democratic nation.

“It embraces the right,” the statement said, “to criticise persons in public office; however, that freedom of expression is not an unfettered right. It should not be exercised with a level of disparagement which exceeds criticising the conduct of those in public office and amounts to statements grounded in absolute falsehoods. The

Commission takes umbrage in individuals making libellous statements in their personal bid to generate confusion in the interplay of politics and against the good will of the Commission.”

The commission said the LJP leader made damning imputations of corruption by the Chairman of the Ethnic Relations Commission and by extension, the Commission in its entirety. It was explained that the investigative sub-committee of the Commission embodies a mixed panel of professionals representing diversity of race, religion, gender, age and even political affiliation.

“Decisions made on behalf of the Commission,” the statement said, “are done collectively by the members of this panel and are not at the discretion of the Chairman of the Commission. Any unwarranted attack against the functions of the Commission is viewed as an attack against the restoration of peace and stability for our people.”

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 30, 2020

PAGE 13

COVID-19 safety advisories 'falling on deaf ears' - CMO warns situation could get worse because of non-compliance No COVID-19 measures here: A crowd at the seawall in Georgetown on Sunday evening

W

i t h t h e number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Guyana now at 235, of which 109 are active cases, the Ministry of Public Health has reproved the negligent attitude of Guyanese in response to national containment measures.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud in a release on Monday sternly reprimanded the actions of citizens in certain sections of the population for disregarding COVID-19 measures and advisories which were implemented to prevent the spread of the virus.

“Over the weekend,” he noted, “we observed large

gatherings on the seawall in Region Four after 6:00pm despite repeated warnings to observe physical distancing, to wear a mask when out in public and to adhere to the curfew measures.

It is quite obvious that all our messages are falling on deaf ears and that our young population is determined to do as they please.”

During the week June 21-26, 2020, a total of 47 new cases were confirmed with most of the cases emanating from Regions One and Seven.

It was noted that while COVID-19 deaths have remained at 12 since May 30, and many of the new cases are emanating from outside of the epicenter

(Region Four) some residents have misguidedly taken this as a sign to return to normal life.

The CMO indicated that it has been continually brought to the attention of ministry officials that people are treating COVID19 as a hoax or a political gimmick. Further, he noted that over 50 percent of all positive cases are asymptomatic which means there are possibly more positive cases than what is confirmed.

Dr. Persaud outlined the current situation in other countries in the Americas, drawing specific attention to the death toll in neighbouring Brazil which, as at June 28, was 57,070

It is time to move forward - CIOG

T

he Central I s l a m i c Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) is of the view that the time has come for the leaders of Guyana to move on and do what is best for the country.

In a statement to the press last evening, President of the CIOG Shahabudeen Ahmad appealed for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to declare the winner of the March 2, General and Regional Elections “as soon as the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has made its ruling.”

The statement read, “Guyanese citizens have demonstrated admirable restraint and patience while

the election process and its results have been subjected to many stages of overview and review prior to verification.

After intense scrutiny, the CARICOM Observer Team declared that they were of the “unshakeable belief that the people of Guyana expressed their will at the ballot box on March 2”.

The body went on to give credit to the recount exercise, adding “all International and CARICOM observers have vouched that Guyana's 2020 election process was free,

fair, and credible. The Guyanese people should be p r o u d o f t h i s accomplishment, for when democracy wins, everyone wins.” “Now it is time,” the CIOG stated, “to honor and respect the will of the people as expressed by the majority of the electorate at the polls.

It is time to move forward and work unitedly for the wellbeing and success of the entire nation.”

Furthermore, the CIOG made appeals for the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to uphold the rule of law in a responsible manner while simultaneously monitoring and addressing any inflammatory actions in order to serve and protect all Guyanese citizens.

with 1,313,667 confirmed cases.

“Is neighbouring Brazil's death toll a figment of our imagination? Do we have to see our citizens dropping and dying on the road before we take COVID-19 seriously?

Are we so callous that we think little of the service being done by all the frontline workers even at the risk of infecting themselves and their family?” he admonished.

Meanwhile, Suriname which had initially i m p l e m e n t e d a t o t a l Ministry of Public Health, lockdown in March resulting Chief Medical Officer, (continued on page 20)

Dr. Shamdeo Persaud

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Tuesday June 30, 2020

Ocean View retrofit walk through...

Media not invited to see how, where and what, $1 Billion being spent on Y esterday, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) released a series of photos of the facility via social media, but no media was invited to what the officials say was a “walkthrough� conducted by health officials and other stakeholders.

The photographs released on the Ministry's

Facebook page show several interior and exterior spaces of the newly refurbished hospital facility.

Public Relations Officer, Terrence Esseboom told Kaieteur News that health officials and other relevant stakeholders were given a firsthand view to examine the work done so far with the project to ensure that it is on par with standards for

operating a sanatorium for infectious diseases.

When asked why the media was excluded from the event, Esseboom offered that the media could not be facilitated at the initial stage of examining the $1B project.

The PRO also could not give the specifics of the works conducted, so far.

He said that only the

technical persons could provide adequate responses to questions, only saying that the project is 80 percent completed and is slated for full completion by August of this year.

Questions were also raised about what appears to be a centralized air conditioning system, a feature which is reportedly not suited for an infectious

(See more pictures on pages 15 - 19)

diseases building, but again the PRO said that those questions must be directed to the technical medical personnel.

In addition, Esseboom declined to say too how much money was expended to retrofit the facility, so far directing this paper to Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Collete Adams.

When contacted, Ms. Adams

said that she too did not have the figures at her disposal, but committed to providing an update today.

Meanwhile in a video clip released following the exercise, Chief Medical O f f i c e r, ( C M O ) D r.

Shamdeo Persaud noted that the facility is well suited for the control the spread of (continued on page 22)

Tuesday June 30, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

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CCTV footage shows missing Police Constable crossed bridge - mother

C

harlene Jordan, the mother of the missing cop, Quincy Lewis, yesterday told Kaieteur News that the investigation into the disappearance of her son has since revealed that he crossed the Demerara Harbour Bridge which is less than 10 minutes from where he is stationed at Agricola Police Station.

It has now been more than a week since the Police Constable went missing after he left his Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, home for work but never arrived.

Jordan, during an interview with this newspaper, said that her son left home around 17:15hrs on Friday, June 19 for work. The woman said, “We only learnt that he was missing on Tuesday, June 23, after the owner of the car that he left home driving came and told us that he is not getting onto Quincy's phone.”

“So I tried calling him and his phone went straight to voicemail,” Jordan recounted. She said that it was on Wednesday that she was able to contact the Agricola Police Station and that's when she found out that Lewis did not turn up for duty.

“After I contacted Agricola Station,” she told Kaieteur News, “some police officers came the same night around 20:00hrs and I told them that Quincy is missing.”

The woman added that she is not aware of her son having any issue with anyone or if he has a girlfriend. The police are continuing their investigations reviewing other CCTV

Mabaruma doctors' residence goes up in flames The burning building

Missing Police Constable, Quincy Lewis footage on the East Bank Demerara to find out what might have happened to Lewis or where he went after he crossed the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

Jordan said that she will be contacting the police today on the progress of their investigations. She is asking anyone with information on the whereabouts of her son to contact 677-6547, 680-1436 or the nearest police station.

COVID-19 safety advisories...

From page 13 in just 10 cases, is now reporting more than 450 new cases within the last month.

This comes in the wake of the country relax i n g lockdown measures after more than a month had passed without any new infections being recorded.

Tuesday June 30, 2020

The CMO reminded that no one is exempt from contracting COVID-19, and while initial research had indicated that the elderly are more at risk of contracting the infection, in Guyana the largest percentage of confirmed cases is attributed to the 20-

29 age group.

“I wish to make a special appeal; COVID-19 is here in Guyana and will soon catch up with us if we continue with our lax behaviour,” Dr. Persaud emphasised.

The first phase of Guyana's reopening comes to an end on July 2.

T

hree doctors stationed at the M a b a r u m a Regional Hospital are now homeless after the house they were residing in went up in flames. The fire occurred at around 11:00 hours on Monday morning and is suspected to be caused by an electrical malfunction.

The building, which is rented by the Ministry of Public Health, was being

The destroyed building

occupied by three Cuban doctors who were on duty at the time of the fire. .

Tellisa King, a resident of Mabaruma, informed Kaieteur News that there was not much that could have been done to save the building since the fire quickly spread through the wooden structure. She added that many public spirited citizens turned out to lend assistance, however due to

the unavailability of resources, they had to watch on helplessly as the fire completely destroyed the building.

Meanwhile, the nearly completed Mabaruma Fire Station is currently being used as a quarantine facility.

Fire Chief of the Mabaruma sub-region, Orin Stanley noted that an investigation is being conducted to rule out other possible causes.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 30, 2020

PAGE 21

Lawyer says...

Claudette Singh will not actively participate in CCJ Elections Appeal Case - Nandlall says move is considered standard best practice G

By Shikema Dey

uyana Elections Commission (GECOM) C h a i r, R e t ' d J u s t i c e Claudette Singh has declined 'active participation' in the Bharrat Jagdeo,Irfaan Ali vs Eslyn David et al Elections Appeal Case at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to be heard on Wednesday.

Through her attorney Kim Kyte Thomas, the Chair on Sunday informed the Registrar of the Court “That on further consideration, we do not wish to actively participate in the Appeal. In the circumstances, we do not wish to make any submissions.”

The respondents in the matter were all expected to file their submissions last weekend with extra time allocated for those who wished to counter.

Why the Chair took this position was not provided in the letter to the Registrar but according to former Attorney-General Anil

Nandlall, Justice Singh's non-submission will have no bearing on the case since Singh's affidavit to the Court of Appeal remains part of the record of appeal filed by the applicants, Jagdeo and Ali. Nandlall explained that due to Singh's position as a neutral constitutional officer, her decision was considered stand bes t practice in such a case.

In her submission to the COA, the GECOM Chair had argued for the court to quash the motion penned by Eslyn David seeking to block the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield from submitting his final report to the Commission, on the recount figures for a declaration of the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

David had sought a declaration from the Appellate Court that GECOM failed to act in accordance with the Recount

Order, in that they failed to determine a final credible count of the result of the March 2, 2020 Elections, along with an interpretation of the words “more votes are cast” in Article 177 (2) (b) of the Constitution, and an order restraining the CEO Keith Lowenfield from complying with the instructions of the Chair to prepare his final report without determining the credibility of the General and Regional Elections. She had filed her motion pursuant to Article 177(4) of the Constitution, which speaks to the Appeal Court having the jurisdiction to determine questions on the validity of an election of a President, either on questions of the qualification of a person elected to the presidency or the interpretation of any relevant section of the constitution.

Justice Singh, in her submissions, argued that the

GECOM Chair, Justice Claudette Singh Appeal Court only has the power to interpret the Constitution, not to rewrite it. Further, she argued that Article 177 speaks to a “President” and pointed out that Guyana's March 2 Election is yet to reach that stage.

She argued that, “Hence, the first two orders sought, seeking a Declaration that GECOM failed to act in accordance

Bess replaces West as Army Head Meanwhile, 51-year old Colonel Godfrey Bess said it is an honour to have been bestowed with the privilege of serving as Chief of Staff of the Defence Force. He thanked President Granger and the Defence Board for the opportunity to serve w h i l e B r i g a d i e r We s t proceeds on his accumulated leave.

Colonel Bess also (continued on page 24)

From left: Outgoing Chief of Staff Patrick West and Incoming Chief of Staff Godfrey Bess

P

resident David Granger granted approval to Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Patrick West to head on accumulated leave with effect from Wednesday, appointing Colonel Godfrey Bess to perform the functions of Chief of Staff.

The incumbent also appointed Colonel Trevor Bowman to Inspector General Position; Colonel Sherwin Anderson to Quartermaster General; and Colonel Raul Jerrick to Adjutant General with effect from 1st July 2020.

Brigadier West, 54, served as the country's 10th Chief of Staff. He expressed gratitude to President Granger and the Defence Board for both “specific and general direction” which he said has helped to shape the course of effective transformation within the Force, while at the same time developing the concept of Total National Defence.

The Commander-inChief of the Armed Forces extended best wishes to Brigadier West for his service as an officer in the Defence Force since 1985.

“I am certain that the

momentum of the Force at this stage can see the seeds of transformation which were sown coming to fruition in another few years”, he said as he thanked his predecessors for their efforts.

“I think Colonel Bess will have a very good foundation going forward,” Brigadier West said while describing his time in the military as “very good.”

Brigadier West is the recipient of the Military Service Star, Military Efficiency Medal, and the Border Defence Medal, among others.

with its order secondly an interpretation of the words “more votes are cast” and the affidavit filed in support do not touch and concern the qualification of a person elected President. It is respectfully submitted that the application is misconceived and ought to be struck out forthwith.”

The GECOM Chair pointed to the fact that questions on the credibility of an election can only be heard via an Elections Petition in the High Court – the Court with such exclusive jurisdiction. For these reasons, Justice Singh concluded that, “The Notice of Motion should be rejected by this Honourable Court and the Commission should be permitted to execute its constitutional role and functions to bring finality to the 2020 Elections.”

Following the arguments, the Appeal Court in a majority decision ruled last week Monday that the CEO must determine the results of the elections based on a calculation of valid votes in the context of Article 177 (2) (b) where it says “more votes cast” should be interpreted to mean “more valid votes cast.”

The very next day, the Opposition General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo and Presidential Candidate Irfaan Ali, filed an Appeal with the CCJ in an attempt to strike down the ruling made by the Appellate Court. The

PPP leaders in their application asked CCJ, in the interim, to grant an order restraining Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield from issuing his report on the elections, pursuant to Section 96 of the Representation of the People Act, or any other report based on the Court of Appeal's ruling yesterday.

It also asked for an order restraining GECOM from taking any steps to determine “a final credible count” of the recounted elections results, or from enquiring into the validity or credibility of the votes cast, and an order restraining GECOM from usurping the exclusive authority of the High Court, as granted by Article 163 of the Constitution, to determine the lawful conduct of the elections.

However, Lowenfield also submitted his final report on Tuesday last, using alternate figures than those amassed at the recount which would see the Opposition People's Progressive Party (PPP) emerging victorious with 233,336 votes – some 15,000 votes ahead of the governing Coalition's 271,529. In Lowenfield's report, he dumped 115,844 valid votes and claimed that the Coalition won the March 2 polls with 171,825 votes.

A single hearing is scheduled for the case tomorrow, beginning at 9 AM.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 22

Tuesday June 30, 2020

Media not invited to see how... Labourer succumbs after From page 14 infectious diseases.

According to the CMO, the facility is spacious and also located in a position where there is minimal exposure.

Dr. Persaud explained that the facility will cater to three levels of care of coronavirus cases.

“Here in this facility the plan is to handle at least three categories of persons, those who are infected and suffering from signs and symptoms, those who are asymptomatic, and those who need to be in quarantine,” he explained.

He said the initial concept is to centralize the care services with regards to the novel coronavirus and, once the pandemic is brought

under control, the facility will look to handle other infectious diseases.

The CMO's comments come even as questions remain as to why $1 billion is being spent to transform an old, flood-prone building into an infectious diseases hospital. There are also questions as how the money is being expended.

While no information has been publicized to indicate how the project was awarded to contractors, Kaieteur News recently learnt that in addition to the main contractors behind the renovation – International Import and Supplies and Ivor Allen Construction – there are seven other contractors who were contracted to

several sections of the projects.

Some of the work identified in the contract include remodeling of the main wing; installation of medical gas; HV AC – negative pressure system; construction of operating theatre; construction of R.C ramps and laundry room and rehabilitation of main plumbing system and distribution networks was awarded to international imports and supplies; construction of R.C base for triage area and holding area for infectious waste; construction of northern concrete fence, timber revetment, construction of R.C. base for morgue and concrete walkways for projects for the MOPH.

setting himself on fire

A

labourer attached to the Nand Persaud Rice Factory reportedly set himself on fire on the 25th June 2020, succumbing days later.

Dead is 34-year-old Naresh Rampergas called Bobby of Lot 81 Miss Phoebe, Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice. Reports are that the incident took place on the 25th June between 01:37 hrs and 03:05 hrs at his address mentioned.

Based on the information provided to the police by his wife, Roopdhai Gordial called Jenny, 39, a laundress at the Port Mourant Hospital, on the 22nd June her husband left for work around 06:25 am and returned home around 17:00 hrs.

On his return, she noticed that he seemed bothered about something since his facial expression was unpleasant and he did not speak to her.

The following day, she said, he did not go to work but while she tried to enquire if there was any issue, he again did not speak to her. A few days passed and he still maintained his distant and on the 25th at about 03:05 am she was awoken by a sound.

She told police that when

Dead: Naresh Rampergas

she got up to check, she realised her husband was not in the bed so she got up and peeked out their bedroom window when she noticed a "red light" near the outdoor fireside.

Gordial said she then ran out into the yard to check on what was lighting and was met with the horrific scene of her husband's body in flames.

She said she began to scream and the neighbours were alerted. The neighbours then rushed over with pieces of old clothing to help to extinguish the fire from his

body. The police were contacted and Rampergas, who was still breathing, was rushed to the Port Mourant Hospital and subsequently transferred to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital and admitted in a critical state. He died the following day.

Meanwhile, this publication was informed that Rampergas had made an initial attempt to end his life in January followed by several others. His body is presently at the New Amsterdam Hospital mortuary.

Trio remanded to prison for robbing boss with violence

Remanded: Christopher James

T

hree young miners were y e s t e r d a y remanded to prison for robbery with violence committed on their 62-yearo l d e m p l o y e r, A d a m DaSilva.

Christopher James, 20, and Jermain Melville, 19, both of Tuschen New Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, and 23-year-old Dellon Benjamin of Suddie, Sandhill Creek, appeared at

Remanded: Dellon Benjamin the Bartica Magistrate Court where they were charged by Magistrate Crystal Lambert via Skype.

It is alleged that on June 26, the three men beat and robbed their Brazilian employer of 14.2 pennyweights of raw gold at Sand Hill Oku Landing, Mazaruni, Region Seven.

The miners were not allowed to plea to the charge and will make their next court appearance on July 27.

Remanded: Jermain Melville The trio had alleged that their employer did not want to pay them, so they then took actions into their own hands and assaulted DaSilva, took the gold and left.

A report was made to the Police and DaSilva was transported to the Bartica Regional Hospital and later transferred to Georgetown for further treatment.

Medical reports revealed that DaSilva suffered a broken leg as a result of the attack.

Tuesday June 30, 2020

PAGE 23

Kaieteur News

Respect CCJ ruling on recount - CARICOM Private Sector body tells Guyana's leaders With the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) set to hear arguments in the Jagdeo, Ali et al election's appeal case on Wednesday; the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO) has called on Guyana's leaders from both major political parties to respect whatever ruling is handed down by the Court.

BELOW IS THE FULL STATEMENT ON GUYANA ELECTIONS by the CARICOM PRIVATE SECTOR ORGANISATION (CPSO) First and foremost, we congratulate the Guyanese people on their patience with what is a frustrating process for all. Guyana is a beautiful country with wonderful, hospitable people and deserves the prosperous future for all that is awaiting her.

However, there is a path, if pursued, that could exacerbate divisions and lead to even greater income disparity and unhappiness. The CPSO sees the current impasse over the Elections as an opportunity for Guyana to recognize and choose a fair, inclusive, and righteous path forward.

The CPSO is a non-political

organization and takes no sides in the outcome of the Elections. We wish to express our concern for, yet confidence in the democracy of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

The strength of all democracies lies in the hands of the institutions and leaders who guide and protect them.

There has clearly been a breakdown in the election process and systems in Guyana and the current dispute should serve to increase our resolve to strengthen the governance and operations of the Guyana Elections Commission to ensure that never again would an election in Guyana be enveloped in such dispute over the validity of the results.

The ruling party APNU+AFC has declared victory based on a June 23rd report issued by the Chief Elections Officer which showed 171,825 of the votes deemed valid for the ruling party and 166,343 of the votes deemed valid for the opposition PPP/C party. However, over 115,000 votes were deemed invalid, which if counted would show the opposite result as reported by independent observers. The current conundrum is set up for rejection and invalidation

of any result that eventually prevails. How can this deadlock be broken? In any election, parties compete on the basis that the outcome must be accepted as the will of the people. While each side accuses the other of trying to manipulate the result, ultimately it is the will of the people that confers legitimacy on any winner to lead the country.

Since, the electoral process in Guyana has clearly demonstrated its vulnerability to interference, the CPSO believes it is vitally important to the legitimacy of any declared winner and for the sake of the people and the economic future of Guyana, for the Courts to rule on the recount of votes (including the issue concerning the validity or invalidity of the disputed votes).

A failure to lawfully and definitively resolve this issue will leave some 50 percent of the people in Guyana certain that the elections were stolen by one party or the other. Guyana is a founding member of the CARICOM and hosts its Secretariat Headquarters. Both parties agreed to rely on CARICOM Observers to monitor the con-

duct of the elections process as well as the recount of votes cast.

Given the current impasse and the necessity for Guyana's 2020 elections to have legitimacy, it is appropriate that the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) be used as the final arbiter in this matter.

The CPSO appeals to the leaders of both parties to have recourse to the Court of Appeal or the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), if the latter finds that it has jurisdiction to hear and determine the issue concerning the validity or invalidity of the disputed votes.

This moment of great uncertainty could potentially exacerbate divisions in Guyana.

However, the moment can be seized instead to bring Guyana together responsibly and to take action on building stronger governing institutions.

We have faith and confidence that the leaders of both the ruling party and the opposition recognize the need for their leadership to be validated by the voice of the people of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana; and that must be ruled upon by an independent and trustworthy institution.

Greenidge underscores need for int'l...

From page 7 community and the predictability associated with a formal ruling which says this is what has been in place...

You've agreed to it. It is what has been in force. It is what will continue to be in force.”

“As a small state, we have to be protected from bigger ones, whether they are super large, or whether they are very large,” he told the coalition operatives last night.

The former Foreign Affairs Minister explained that such support is drawn from the adoption of international principles of human rights and the rule of law. The Peace of Westphalia came into focus during the interview, a series of peace treaties signed in 1648 which brought to significant end the religious wars in Europe. He said that the Peace of Westphalia was effectively an international protocol which protected a country's borders from international interference.

“That is 1648.” he said.

“Since then, we have had in the United Nations, the adoption of principles governing human rights and the rule of law. And what that means is that, within borders, actions of governments can be the subject of international or regional court action.”

“You can on the one hand,” he said, “as Guyana for example, call upon the international community to have Venezuela respect the rule of

law internationally… You will call upon the UN and then the security council to take action if they fail to honour their obligations.”

Greenidge drew a nexus between Venezuela's situation and that of statements being made by officials in Guyana that foreigners who comment on the electoral impasse should respect Guyana's sovereignty. He explained that if Venezuela rejects a court ruling in Guyana's favour and moves to prevent Guyana from exploiting its resources there, Guyana may call on the international community to take action.

He said that Venezuela had passed domestic legislation which lays claim to resources in the maritime zone, but that does not allow it to say “this is domestic legislation; it is our government that has taken that decision, you have no right to say anything or to ask us any questions.”

Just as such a principle applies therefore, Greenidge said “you have to be consistent in law.” He explained that if Guyana takes some action which causes people to flood to Barbados or Trinidad, “you [Guyana] can't be telling Trinidad or Barbados government [that] this is Guyana's sovereignty, because your people are moving in response to your measures or perceived to be moving.”

“So one ought to be very careful,” Greenidge said,

“when you invoke these things [questions of sovereignty] to perhaps suit a specific topic, because they may have implications for us. For Guyana, the rule of law internationally is our only protection.”

He had been asked for his view on how foreigners should address the Guyana situation, on matters of sovereignty and nationhood. The coalition has spoken in opposition to statements made by CARICOM heads of government, as those statements appeared to be critical of the coalition government.

Greenidge said that the issue of sovereignty is about the rights of the people of Guyana to the territory within which they operate – a matter distinct from the rights or actions of a political party.

“A country's sovereignty needs to be very clearly separated from the rights of a political party or the actions of a political party,” Greenidge stated. Even then, he added “you do not have the right to censor other people for pronouncing or giving a view on such matters.”

Greenidge reminded that Guyana was one of the countries “most vociferous in the battle – and people now forget – against apartheid.”

He indicated that the South African government – which was a racist government – could not reject criticisms of the Court or the gov-

ernment, because the issues touched on fundamental rights and principles.

“If you have acted properly,” he said, “you don't have to, at the same time, prove that you acted properly by censoring other people and shouting them down for voicing a view.”

In that vein, Greenidge said that he has observed arguments being made by senior officials in Guyana that foreign leaders who comment should respect Guyana's sovereignty. Those comments, he said, are inappropriate.

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Tuesday June 30, 2020

Kaieteur News

Merkel, Macron urge ‘strong, efficient’ ‘No excuse’ for countries that fail in recovery fund for Europe contact tracing, WHO’s Tedros says Meseberg (Germany) (AFP) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron yesterday called for a “strong” and “efficient” coronavirus recovery fund for the European Union, urging a deal to be sealed next month.

The two leaders met for talks at the German government retreat in Meseberg, days before Germany takes on the rotating presidency of the bloc with an economy mired

in the worst crisis since World War II. Berlin’s chairing of the 27member bloc will be the last with Merkel in charge, and could be the one that defines the legacy of the leader dubbed the “eternal chancellor”.

With the future of the bloc’s relationship with Britain still to be determined, a shift to a lower-carbon world in the balance and deteriorating US-China ties all jostling for attention, there is no shortage of issues to

tackle.

But it is the coronavirus pandemic and the economic devastation it has wrought that will concentrate minds.

At talks at the German government retreat in Meseberg, both leaders made a push for 750-billion euro recovery fund proposed by European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen.

The Franco-German pair had sketched out the backbone of the fund but it has run into opposition from so-called “frugal nations” like

the Netherlands and Austria.

Hard-hit southern European countries such as Italy and Spain have called on the EU to loosen its purse strings in the response to the crisis.

“We hope we’ll find a deal (in July), even if the road is still long,” said Merkel.

“What is important for me is that we come out of the debate with a strong instrument.

There will of course be changes that must be discussed. But it must remain a fund that... really helps countries that are hardest hit by the crisis.”

Granger agrees with Lowenfield's report

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus GENEVA - (Reuters) Tracing contacts of people with coronavirus infections is the most important step in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, and countries that are failing to do so have no excuse, the World Health Organization chief said yesterday.

“Although many countries have made some progress, globally the pandemic is actually speeding up,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a briefing.

“We all want this to be over. We all want to get on with our lives. But the hard reality is that this is not even close to being over,” he said.

“Most people remain susceptible the virus still has a lot of room to move.”

Countries such as South Korea had managed to contain the disease by tracking down the contacts of those carrying infection, Tedros said. This was possible even under extreme conditions, as the WHO itself had shown by halting an outbreak of Ebola in eastern Congo, tracing 25,000 contacts a day in a remote area where some 20 armed groups were fighting, he added.

“No excuse for contact tracing. If any country is saying contact tracing is difficult, it is a lame excuse.”

In a move sought by the WHO’s biggest critic, the United States, Tedros announced that a team would be sent to China next week to investigate the origins of the outbreak.

“We can fight the virus better when we know everything

about the virus, including how it started,” Tedros said. “We will be sending a team next week to China to prepare for that.”

U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have both said the disease could have escaped from a lab in Wuhan, although they have presented no evidence of this, and China denies it.

Scientists say the virus emerged in nature.

Trump has announced plans to quit the WHO, which he says is too close to China. He has repeatedly emphasised the Chinese origins of the virus, calling it “Kung Flu” at two rallies this month, a term the White House had previously described as unacceptable and which Asian-American groups say is racist.

Asked about Trump’s use of the term, the director of the WHO’s emergencies program, Mike Ryan, called for an “international discourse that is based on mutual respect”.

“Many people around the world have used unfortunate language in this response,” he said. Ryan said there had been tremendous progress towards finding a vaccine, but there was no guarantee of success.

In the meantime countries must use the strategies available, such as social distancing and contact tracing.

“Many, many countries through applying a comprehensive strategy have reached a very low level of virus transmission in their countries but always have to remain vigilant in case there are clusters or small outbreaks.”

From page 3 elections and its aftermath.”

Granger has three Commissioners that he has selected to the seven member body – Vincent Alexander, Charles Corbin and Desmond Trotman.

Confidence in GECOM During the interview, President Granger emphasized that the Elections Commission is “bound” to accept the report of the CEO, even as Lowenfield, a statutory officer, discarded 115,844 votes in his most recent report.

“He is the authority,” the President said, “there is no other authority to prepare such a report. He is mandated to prepare a report including the tabulation and also the validation in the form of observations, and if the observation shows that there is corruption then he is obligated to make such a report. That report has to go to the Commission for review.”

Notably, powers invested to the GECOM Chair by the Constitution state that Justice (ret'd) Singh can order Lowenfield to create another report in which all the votes are tabulated. Reports from the 2011 General and Regional elections chronicle how former CEO Gocool Boodhoo's erroneous calculation of votes would have taken one seat from the Alliance For Change (AFC) and given it to the People's Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C). This would have given the PPP/C a 33 seat parliamentary majority if Commissioner Vincent Alexander had not discovered the miscalculation and brought it to the attention of the Commission.

Then GECOM Chair, Dr. Steve Surujballi, had ordered Boodhoo to redo the calculation, resulting in the seat being correctly awarded to the AFC and the PPP/C being given a minority government with 32 seats compared to the combined opposition's 33.

Shortly after Granger concluded his interview with Benschop last night, former Attorney General and execu-

tive of the PPP/C, Anil Nandlall, issued a statement where he argued that the President “wrongly asserted” that Lowenfield's report is binding upon GECOM. Nandlall contended that “The truth is that the CEO is subordinate and subject to the directions of GECOM. Not the reverse. Therefore, the CEO can only act upon the directions of GECOM. GECOM reserves the power to reject any fraudulent report presented by any Chief Election Officer.”

When enquired about where his confidence stands on regarding the GECOM Chair as well as the other relevant parties of the elections commission, Granger was quick to point out that that, “It is not only a question of confidence, but it is a question of the Constitution and it is a question of the law.

We (the coalition) have publicly stated that we support the Commission, the Chairman and the Chief Elections Officer. We are prepared to live by the outcome; once the Chairman makes a declaration, which I hope is soon, we will abide by that declaration.”

The President went on to relate that he expects a declaration that must not only be accepted by the Guyanese, but one that must also be accepted by the international community.

Regional and international “interference” Many coalition supporters have raised concerns over the “interference” of foreign and international bodies that have made pronouncements on Guyana's electoral process, including speaking about potential penalties for government not abiding by the results of the recount.

“Guyana is not a rogue state, and I resent people outside of Guyana talking about sanctions and talking about penalties,” the President said, maintaining that his government was acting within the law.

Responding to questions about whether he felt that CARICOM was wrongfully intervening, Granger responded that, “The Prime Ministers came and met me, we had cordial discussion and they agreed to a process. Now there is a CARICOM team and the team cannot be accused of interference because it is a legal entity; there had to be a special order for that CARICOM team. We cannot invite that team to Guyana for a function and then accuse them of interfering.”

Earlier last week the CARICOM Chair Prime Minister Mia Mottley, had issued a bold and stern statement in which she conveyed her concern and denounced Lowenfield's actions after he discarded over 115,000 votes in the report he submitted to

the commission—as she was keen to label the report as “shocking” and “frustrating”.

“We must ask – on what grounds and by what form of executive fiat does the Chief Elections Officer determine that he should invalidate 1 vote, far less over 115, 000 votes when the votes were already certified as valid by officers of the Guyana Elections Commission in the presence of the political parties,” the CARICOM Chair asked. In addition to her strong statement PM Mottley related that she had deemed the drawn out political process “gamesmanship”, which does not portray the Caribbean region in the “best light”.

Following her statement many APNU+AFC executives and supporters were quick to throw backlash and share their unkind reservations. Many even went as far to say that PM Mottley was “interfering” in Guyana's electoral process.

When asked to share his thoughts on the issue the President said “I have great respect for my Caribbean colleagues.

They are concerned.

Guyana is the headquarters of the Caribbean Community, and to use a cricketing expression they stepped out to come here and bat for Guyana, and I think they understand the complexities of an election in Guyana. I don't see them as interfering.”

Bess replaces West as Army Head From page 21 thanked Brigadier West whom he has worked with over the last three years on what he termed the consolidation and stabilisation period of the GDF. “Brigadier West's leadership has been admirable. I have learnt a lot from him. The vision is clear and indeed what I need to do with my team is follow the vision,” Colonel Bess said noting that “the path is clear and I will follow that path.”

Colonel Bess who started his military career in 1990

served in Command, Administrative, Staff and Training appointments throughout the GDF. He said his professional education was supported by the compulsory professional military education of the Guyana Defence Force which includes the Senior and Junior Command and Staff Courses and Managing Security in Wider Defence Context.

Colonel Bess' has been serving as Quarter Master General since January 1, 2018 and has been responsible for ensuring that the GDF is well resourced to carry out its

mandate in any terrain.

He has received military training from the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet SchoolGuyana, the United States of America Military Police School- Alabama, the Caribbean Junior Command and Staff School- Jamaica and the Shrivenham Defence College, United Kingdom.

Colonel Bess is the holder of a Bachelor of Social Science Degree in Business Management and Level Two Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.Colonel Godfrey Bess (B123)

Tuesday June 30, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday June 30, 2020

Tuesday June 30, 2020

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Kaieteur News

Nat Squash Coach Carl Ince has produced many...

From page 31 what they say verbally but to what you feel intuitively,” the experienced Coach explained.

“The most challenging aspects of being a coach is trying to get across to youngsters that doing the same thing over and over again may seem boring but it develops muscle memory and builds a solid foundation. Also it can be difficult to get them to understand the value of patience in the game,” he continued.

Ince is very optimistic that Squash will soon become an Olympic sport. “It has already been on the short list to being included and it is just a matter of time,” he disclosed.

The veteran feels the standard of squash in Guyana is certainly good enough for

Caribbean standard. “However, to go further afield would require more training time and senior players who have jobs, careers and family commitments are finding this challenging.

To get the game experience they would have to travel frequently and this requires sponsorship which is not always easily secured.

The future of squash in Guyana will depend on whether we get more courts, more facilities and some financial support,” Ince noted.

He informed the Junior Programme is in the very capable hands of Tiffany Solomon, whom he coached as a teenager.

“Under her dedicated leadership we have a great

programme that, before the pandemic, was going very well and is getting better because we now have more qualified coaches.

With some support from the Guyana Olympic Association, I have embarked on a ‘Coaching the Coaches’ programme which will further enhance the teaching of our juniors and ensure that they continue to thrive,” added Ince.

Ince feels there are not enough Squash Courts. “We have GT club with three courts, the Racket Center with two courts, GCC and Everest with one each. And of course I have three courts at my residence at Loo Creek,” said Ince.

This year Guyana were

Tuesday June 30, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A good tip for you to remember is to be careful about what you say about others, Aries. If you're talking about someone who isn't present, act as if he or she is.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You might be called upon to choose between two ways of handling a situation, Libra. The old ways of doing things are in conflict with the new.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You might need some time alone today to bring yourself back to center. Independence is a keyword, so keep it in the back of your mind.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Unexpected events may be shuffling the cards when you least expect it, Scorpio.

If you have kept a close eye on the deck, counting the jacks as they turn up, you might get thrown for a loop.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Don't automatically think that beauty always has to be defined by old-fashioned standards. It's time to create your own definition.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Issues may get a little heavier than you'd perhaps like today, Cancer. Your job is to infuse some amusement into the situation. Your powers of adaptability will be put to the test, as other people seem to be completely fixated on their opinions.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) If the doorknob doesn't want to turn today, Leo, don't force it. You'll only succeed in breaking the key. Perhaps you just need to try another door.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Your newfangled approach to things might get some serious flak from others today, Virgo, but don't let that stop you. Realize that your independent and somewhat rebellious nature is a key ingredient in keeping the world in balance.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Your sense of self may be a bit challenged today. You might just have trouble getting out of bed at all. Remember that the way others see you doesn't necessarily mean that's the way you really are.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) As you follow the path toward acquiring the latest, greatest, fastest, and best, you might find that you're leaving behind some fundamental principles and values along the way.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Key into your sensual, beautiful nature. Take time each day to attend to your soul and make sure it's getting the nourishment it needs to radiate into the world.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may sense a nervous restlessness today that urges you to act. A journey to one place may have you bouncing off to another place that may lead you on an adventure to someplace completely different.

favored to reclaim the Caribbean Junior title they lost in 2017 but due to the Covid-19 the tournament had to be postponed.

“Starting at the junior level our boys team is the strongest we have ever had despite the young age of the team. Beginning with Caribbean champion Shomari Wiltshire, then Samuel InceCarvalhal, Nicholas Verwey, Michael Alphonso and Mohryan Baksh, they are definitely players to watch.

They are all so dedicated and are playing outstanding squash. I’m expecting to see some real developments from them all.

And for the girls, Abosaide Cadogan, Madison Fernandes and Kirsten Gomes are the backbone of the squad,” informed Ince.

“Young people are the future, the stars of tomorrow and if you can get to teach them early you can have a huge impact. Squash requires a long term commitment and takes years to reach the full potential so being involved with youth allows me to build a solid foundation with them.

I have been so fortunate as a coach to have been supported and helped along the way.

It all started with the kind and thoughtful Bobby Fernandes whom I depended on for advice and guidance, and who became a very special, lifetime friend to me in the process.

The parents of my students have also contributed in many ways to my becoming a successful National Coach. If I start naming names I might fill your page! Their support, trust and appreciation have kept me happy to be in this role for over 20 years,” explained Ince.

If youths in Berbice, Essequibo and Linden are to become interested in Squash the game has to be taken to them and infrastructure provided.

“We have already been discussing ways to decentralize squash by getting our coaches into schools to do something called mini squash that doesn’t require a court.

The biggest hurdle is that the facilities are not available outside GT. If we can get enough interest in the sport through schools, Regions may work towards getting these facilities so we can broaden the scope.

Squash is generally seen as an elite sport and without facilities and coaches across the regions it will be difficult to change that concept, but the Junior Programme has grown tremendously and welcomes any young person in-

terested in the game to come along and see if they like it.

We are limited in the numbers we can accommodate but we expanded across to the National Racket Centre last year to include younger players. So if anyone is interested they can visit the GT club and enquire about space on the Programme,” noted Ince.

“Even though I am advancing in years, and I was on the verge of retiring a few years ago, my grandson Samuel migrated to Guyana and took up the sport: When I saw his potential, his dedication and despite starting later than the other players, his rapid progress, it re-inspired me.

Watching him grow up in the squash family, that is Guyana Squash, has really been something special to me.

It was actually Juanita Fernandes, who laughed when she heard he was coming as she knew I was planning to retire when her daughter Taylor aged out of the Juniors.

She said “now you’re not going anywhere!!” I have to say though that coaching is a huge part of my life and I love what I do, so it is a privilege to still be the National Coach at my age.

The support and appreciation I receive from Presi-

dent David Fernandes has transitioned my role to utilize more the strength of my technical and tactical knowledge and allowed me to reduce my physical contributions; which better suits my aging limbs,” Ince stated with a chuckle.

He said most people think that talent is the best attribute of a good player, but without dedication, discipline, patience and self-belief, a player can never reach the top.

Unfortunately, the coronavirus has impacted squash as much as all other sports and Ince informed that the GSA suspended the Junior Programme and also private coaching sessions, while local and International tournaments have all been cancelled.

“I have recently begun working with the squad via video to encourage them to do whatever adapted training they can within their limitations and also I have been continuing my ‘coach the coaches’ programme, despite being unable to do the work I really want to be with them.

This pandemic has been devastating around the world and the most import thing is we all stay safe so we can resume our programme and get back on track when it is safe to do that,” Ince concluded.

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Tuesday June 30, 2020

Kaieteur News

Kyrgios hits out at Zverev over partying video (Reuters) - Australian Nick Kyrgios has hit out at Alexander Zverev after a video appeared to show the German dancing at a crowded club on Sunday despite the world No. 7 pledging last week he would be selfisolating.

The video was posted on Instagram by German designer Philipp Plein and later deleted. There was no indication when the video was taken. Zverev’s team have yet to respond to request for comment.

Zverev, 23, took part in Novak Djokovic’s Adria Tour exhibition event in Serbia and Croatia where Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki all tested positive for the novel coronavirus last week.

The German said he and his team had tested negative but would self-isolate and undergo regular testing.

“So I wake up and I see more controversial things happening all over the world,” Kyrgios said in an

Australia’s Nick Kyrgios reacts during his match against Spain’s Rafael Nadal. (REUTERS/Hannah Mckay) Instagram post. “But one thing that stuck out for me was seeing Sascha Zverev again man, again, again. How selfish can you be?”

Kyrgios previously criticised the organisers of the

tournament and hit out at governing bodies for their plans to restart professional tennis during the pandemic.

Djokovic’s event saw crowds packed into stands for the opening leg in

Germany’s Alexander Zverev in action during his match against Croatia’s Marin Cilic. (REUTERS/Antonio Bronic) Belgrade, while players hugged and posed for pictures, attended news conferences together and played basketball during the Croatia event.

Zverev was also pictured

along with other players dancing at a club in Serbia during the event.

“If you have the audacity to ... put out a tweet that you made your management write on your behalf saying you’re

going to self-isolate for 14days and apologising to ... general public for putting their health at risk, at least have the audacity to stay inside for 14 days,” Kyrgios said.

Wells header in vain as Bristol Contrasting wins for Husbands, Nicholls City slump to another defeat Nahki Wells.

Barbadian Keveh Nicholls in the winners’ circle with Saltini.

LONDON, CMC – Bermudian striker Nahki Wells scored his 18th goal of the season on Sunday, but it was not enough to save his English Championship side Bristol City from a 2-1 home defeat against Sheffield Wednesday at Ashton Gate that has put a severe dent in their promotion hopes.

City are now five points off the play-offs, having lost both matches since the season resumed on June 20 after the ongoing coronavirus pandemic halted play more than three months ago.

Thirty-year-old Wells’ close-range header – his third goal for the club after notching up 15 while on loan at Queens Park Rangers before being sold to City by Premier League club Burnley – reduced the arrears on 68 minutes, but the visitors held firm.

Earlier, the Owls took a 13th-minute lead through a Connor Wickham header before

doubling their advantage on the hour mark from another set-piece, Massimo Lungo slotting home from close range.

Sunday’s defeat extended City’s winless run to seven matches, with the seven changes made by head coach Lee Johnson seeming to have little impact.

When the two teams met at Hillsborough in December – a match Wednesday also won – both sides looked set to mount a serious play-off challenge for a place in the Premier League, that victory lifting the Owls up to third. But both clubs have faded badly since then and Sunday’s result leaves City, who have lost six of their last nine matches while failing to keep a clean sheet in that time, in 12th and Wednesday one spot lower.

City’s next opponents will be fellow topsix hopefuls Nottingham Forest and Cardiff City.

TORONTO, Canada, CMC – Barbadians Patrick Husbands and Keveh Nicholls conjured up contrasting wins to make their mark on Saturday’s 10-race card at Woodbine.

Veteran Husbands scored in the CAN$126 800 race five with favourite Sweet Souper Sweet courtesy of a frontrunning effort while Nicholls, a Woodbine rookie, raised the curtain on the card when he brought 6-1 chance Saltini with a late run to win handsomely.

The victory was the first in 17 outings for Nicholls in the new season which got underway on May 6 following a month’s delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

For Husbands, meanwhile, the success was his eighth of the season in 49 rides, leaving him joint fifth in the standings with Luis Contreras.

Rafael Hernandez, on 16, leads Emma-Jayne Wilson by one.

Nicholls’s success came over six furlongs in a $60 300 optional claiming when he combined with seven-yearold brown gelding Saltini to beat the three-year-olds and upward by 1-½ lengths.

He raced Saltini at the rear of the six-horse field as The Kippy Train and Alicia’s Kid duelled for the lead and Silence Breakers and Souper Hot battled for third two length back.

Nicholls brought Saltini

strongly off the final turn, wore down the leaders before taking over in the dying stages.

In a five furlong dash in race five, Husbands and chestnut filly Sweet Souper Sweet endured little difficulty in putting away the two-yearold maiden fillies by three lengths.

Sweet Souper Sweet carved out a split of 22.43 for the quarter and despite failing to shake stalker Federal Court early on, still took the final stretch with a handy lead.

Federal Court faded while More Savvy chased but Husband and Sweet Souper Sweet were never in danger.

The Woodbine season ends December 13.

Tuesday June 30, 2020

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Kaieteur News

No major financial impact from Wimbledon Virtual Tour de France in July to include women cancellation, say organisers (Reuters) - Wimbledon’s cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic this year will have no major financial impact on British tennis, outgoing All England club Chief Executive Richard Lewis has said.

The grasscourt Grand Slam was scheduled to start on Monday but was cancelled for the first time since World War Two in April.

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) said its spending plans would not have to be curtailed.

“It won’t be severely impacted. If you have to cancel, it’s great to have insurance,” Lewis, who will step down as the CEO next month, told British media.

“We’re still in a very good position, we’re financially very stable. British tennis is going to be pretty well protected.”

However, Wimbledon would not have similar insurance cover in place next year, he added.

“That’s impossible in the current climate,” he said.

“When I started in 2012, there

General view of Court 6 at the All England Lawn Tennis Club at Wimbledon, London. (AELTC/Bob Martin/Handout via REUTERS) were some signs that things were not insurable, because of communicable diseases that had taken place, like Sars and swine flu.

“In the immediate aftermath you can’t get insurance but fairly soon after that you can start to get insurance again, the market returns. So there won’t be

insurance next year.

“But just because we’ve made one claim, it won’t affect us in the long term.”

The U.S. Open is going ahead as scheduled from the end of August while the French Open has moved to the end of September from May and Sally Bolton, who will succeed Lewis, said the

AELTC would learn all they can from the tournaments.

“We’ve got the U.S. Open and Roland Garros being staged later this year and we will be looking closely at what they do, working with the constraints they find themselves under and learning what we can,” said Bolton.

Motorcycling: Dovizioso to be fit for season after collarbone surgery (Reuters) - Ducati rider Andrea Dovizioso is expected to be fit for the start of the 2020 MotoGP season next month after successful surgery for a damaged left collarbone, his team said yesterday.

The 34-year-old sustained the injury on Sunday in a crash while competing in a motocross race at Faenza in northern Italy.

Dovizioso had the operation in Modena and Ducati said he would be able to start p h y s i o t h e r a p y immediately and be ready for the first race of the season in Spain on July 19.

“The surgery went well and I want to thank all the medical team that did the operation so quickly,” Italian Dovizioso said in a statement.

“I don’t feel much pain, and that makes me very optimistic. I came home this morning and during the afternoon I will plan my rehabilitation.

“I’m confident that in these weeks I will be able to recover and that I will be in full shape in time for the first 2020 GP in Jerez.”

Ducati Corse sports

PARIS (Reuters) - Elite women riders still lack an actual Tour de France in which to showcase their talent but over the next three weekends they will achieve equality in the inaugural “virtual” version of the event.

With cycling’s most prestigious race shifted from its traditional July slot to August because of the coronavirus pandemic, online training platform Zwift, together with Tour organisers ASO, has helped fill the void.

The event, featuring six specially-designed animated stages, will see the likes of world time trial champion Chloe Dygert and Dutch great Marianne Vos riding the same course as the men.

In all, 23 men’s and 17 women’s professional teams are confirmed with four-times Tour champion Chris Froome joined by his Team Ineos colleagues Egan Bernal, the reigning champion, and 2018 winner Geraint Thomas.

Stages one and two this weekend will be held on Zwift’s fantasy volcanic island of Watopia, including visual additions inspired by Nice, the Grand Depart host city in August.

Other stages include familiar French terrain including the fearsome Mont

Buffon and Chiellini sign one-year deals with Juventus (Reuters) - Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and central defender Giorgio Chiellini have signed new one-year contracts to stay with the club until the end of the 2020-21 season, the reigning Italian champions announced yesterday.

Buffon, 42, joined Juve from Parma in 2001 and has made over 669 appearances for the club, returning to Turin at the start of the campaign after one season with Paris St Germain.

The 2006 World Cup winner has played 13 times in

Mission Winnow Ducati Corse’s Andrea Dovizioso celebrates third place after the race. (REUTERS/Lai Seng Sin/File Photo) director Paolo Ciabatti said they were aware of the risks involved with Dovizioso competing in motocross before allowing him to participate.

“He had explained to us that he needed to rediscover those stimuli and sensations that only a real competition can give,”

Ciabatti said.

“In the end, we must be relieved that the injury did not have serious consequences and that Andrea will be able to be regularly at the start of the 2020 championship in Jerez.”

MotoGP will resume the 2020 season stalled by the COVID-19 pandemic with

back-to-back races in Jerez on July 19 and 26.

Five circuits will host double-headers and Spain will have seven races as part of the revised 13-round European calendar.

Dovizioso finished runner-up behind Spaniard Marc Marquez of Honda in the 2019 season.

Ventoux on Stage Five before the traditional finish on a virtual Champs-Elysees.

“I cannot imagine the month of July without cycling,” said Christian Prudhomme, Director of the Tour de France.

“Thanks to the virtual Tour de France, which will be widely broadcast on TV, the champions and their fans will fill in the void left by the Tour de France, which will reunite with the public in Nice on 29 August.”

Viewers in 130 countries will be able to watch the action while amateur riders have the opportunity to compete in mass participation races on the same roads as the pros.

“Since I was a boy, I would always be glued in front of the TV for three weeks in July, so I feel incredibly privileged for Zwift to be able to play host to the first virtual edition this year,” said Eric Min, Zwift CEO and CoFounder.

The six hour-long stages offer equal opportunities for sprinters, climbers and allrounders, and teams will battle for the traditional yellow, green and polka dot Tour de France jerseys through a points-based system.

all competitions this season as back-up to Wojciech Szczesny.

Centre back Chiellini, 35, entering his 16th year at Juventus, has racked up 509 appearances for the club.

Both players are aiming to help Juve win a ninth consecutive league title and their first Champions League trophy since 1996.

Meanwhile, Barcelona announced they have reached agreement to sell Brazil midfielder Arthur Melo to Juve in a deal worth 72 million euros ($80.91 million).

PAGE 30

French Olympic Committee denounces racist graffiti outside Sport Institute PARIS (Reuters) - The French Olympic Committee (CNOSF) has denounced racist graffiti that was found on Black athletes’ posters in front of the National Institute of Sport (INSEP) at the weekend.

The CNOSF said it was filing a complaint to the police against the unknown perpetrators.

One of the athletes on the posters is double Olympic judo champion Teddy Riner.

“The CNOSF firmly denounces the racist degradation of the portraits of the champions of the French team displayed at INSEP Paris,” the CNOSF said in a statement yesterday.

“These champions represent France, in all its diversity. They embody the values of respect, tolerance and unity that are at the heart of the Olympic project that we all have at heart to promote and defend,” CNOSF president Denis Masseglia told the governing body’s general assembly.

“I would say only one thing: those who insult our champions insult France. I therefore want, on behalf of all of us, to express the full

Tuesday June 30, 2020

Kaieteur News

French judoka Teddy Riner (R), named France’s flag-bearer for Rio 2016 Olympics, takes part in a training session at the French National Institute of Sport and Physical Education (INSEP) in Paris, France, July 28, 2016. (REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo) support and solidarity of the French Sports Movement and the Olympic family with our athletes and teams in France.

Racism has no place anywhere, and even less so in sport.”

French sports minister

Roxana Maracineanu described the graffiti as “despicable”.

“The fight against racism must continue,” she said.

Paris is the host city for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games.

India’s Menon becomes youngest elite umpire at 36 AFP - India’s Nitin Menon, 36, yesterday became the youngest member of the International Cricket Council’s elite umpire list.

Menon gave up playing cricket when he was 22 to start umpiring and has gradually moved up the rankings, officiating in three Tests, 24 one-day internationals and 16 Twenty20 matches.

“My priority was to play for the country rather than umpiring,” said Menon, who played two matches for Madhya Pradesh state in 2004 before taking up umpiring.

“I quit playing at 22 and I became a senior

umpire at the age of 23. It wasn’t worth trying to play and umpire so I decided to focus on umpiring alone,” added Menon, who replaced England’s Nigel Llong on the 2020-21 season list. “I’m feeling very confident by the fact that age is on my side, but the performance is what ultimately matters. Whether I do well or not, age has little to do with performance.”

Menon is only the third Indian after Srinivas Venkatraghavan and Sundaram Ravi — who was dropped from the list last year — to join the elite group of 12 umpires who take charge at top matches and tournaments.

Umpire Nitin Menon keeps watch as Zimbabwe’s Tinotenda Mutombodzi bowls against Sri Lanka in January 2020 (AFP Photo/Simon Maina )

Mercedes to use black cars in stand against racism

A black-liveried Mercedes Formula One car for the 2020 season is seen in a handout image, released on June 29, 2020, as part of a public pledge to further improve diversity within the team and the world of motorsport. (MERCEDES F1/Handout via REUTERS) (Reuters) - Formula One champions Mercedes unveiled black-liveried cars for the 2020 season yesterday as part of a public pledge to further improve diversity within the team and the world of motorsport.

Mercedes have traditionally raced in silver throughout their time in Formula One but will switch to black and have ‘End Racism’ emblazoned on the halo of both cars.

The team said the Black Lives Matter movement has “shone a searching light on how much we need new measures and actions in the fight against racism and all forms of discrimination”.

The new livery will make its debut when

Britain’s world champion Lewis Hamilton and Finnish team mate Valtteri Bottas feature in the season-opening Austrian Grand Prix on Sunday.

“Racism and discrimination have no place in our society, our sport or our team: this is a core belief at Mercedes,” Mercedes team principal To t o Wo l ff s a i d i n a statement.

“But having the right beliefs and the right mindset isn’t enough if we remain silent.

“We wish to use our voice and our global platform to speak up for respect and equality, and the Silver Arrow will race in black for the entire 2020 season to show our commitment to greater

diversity within our team and our sport.”

Mercedes said only 3% of their workforce identified as belonging to minority ethnic groups, while just 12% are women.

The team plans to l a u n c h a diversity and inclusion programme before the end of the season as they look to improve those numbers and encourage more people fr o m underrepresented backgrounds into Formula One. Six-times Formula One champion Hamilton said: “It’s so important that we seize this moment and use it to educate ourselves whether you are an individual, brand or company to make real meaningful changes when it comes to ensuring equality and inclusivity.”

FOX gives up U.S. Open rights to NBC (Reuters) - A crowded sports schedule caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted FOX to choose the NFL and MLB over the U.S. Open, leading the U.S. Golf Association (USGA) to end its 12-year deal with the broadcaster and transfer it to NBC Universal.

The U.S. Open originally scheduled for June was moved to September due to the new coronavirus outbreak, creating a logjam for FOX which also has broadcast rights for ratings behemoth the NFL as well as college football and Major League Baseball.

“With the COVID-19 pandemic leading to the shift in dates for the U.S. Open... finding the necessary broadcast hours

presented a challenge for FOX Sports, given their commitments to the National Football League, Major League Baseball / and college football,” the USGA said in a statement.

“What started as an exploration of how FOX Sports and NBC/Go l f Channel could work together this unique year led to a broader conversation and eventual agreement for NBCU to take over the USGA media rights.”

FOX signed a 12-year deal worth a reported $1.2 billion in 2015 that runs through 2026.

The USGA said terms of the agreement will remain the same as NBC jumps in to broadcast this year’s U.S. Open at Winged Foot Golf

Club in Mamaroneck, New York which was moved from June 18-21 to Sept. 17-20 because of the coronavirus outbreak.

The deal also includes the rights to other USGA flagship events including the U.S. Women’s Open, U.S. Amateur and U.S. Women’s Amateur tournaments.

“Recent events calling for the shift of the U.S. Open created scheduling challenges that were difficult to overcome,” said Eric Shanks, CEO and executive producer of FOX Sports.

“While we are proud of the success we’ve built over these years, this is a win for golf fans everywhere, a win for the USGA and a win for FOX and NBC Sports.”

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 30, 2020

Formula One fires up, four months late and without a crowd LONDON (Reuters) Formula One starts its season in Austria this week, nearly four months later than planned due to the COVID19 pandemic and against a very different backdrop even if Lewis Hamilton’s targets remain the same.

The six times world champion can equal Ferrari great Michael Schumacher’s record seven while his Mercedes team are bidding for an unprecedented seventh successive drivers’ and constructors’ title double.

The Briton, who has used his profile to campaign for greater diversity in the sport and against racism, is raring to compete but aware he faces new and unexpected challenges.

“We are preparing the best way we can for what is going to be the most difficult season that Formula One and all of us have experienced,” the 35-year-old said in a Mercedes video.

Since the traditional Australian opener was cancelled in March, Formula One has agreed changes to help teams hard hit by

COVID-19.

Driver moves for 2021 have been announced already, including the departure of Hamilton’s old rival Sebastian Vettel from Ferrari at the end of 2020.

This year’s only rookie, Canadian Nicholas Latifi, could find his Williams team are under new ownership before his first campaign is over. Car liveries unveiled with fanfare in February have changed again to keep up with the changing times.

There is also lingering uncertainty about how many grands prix the season will hold with seven cancelled so far and more likely to follow.

Eight rounds, all in Europe and without spectators for the first time, feature on a provisional calendar but the sport still hopes to muster 15-18 races, even if that means several circuits hosting two each.

TWO RACES Sunday will be the first time Austria has hosted a season-opener, at Spielberg’s scenic Red Bull Ring, and the following weekend will see another milestone when the circuit

T

lead after 6 ends. However, Madray produced a masterful performance in the final 6 ends to overtake Hing final score by 4 points.

On the previous Sunday (June 21, 2020), the 12th stage of this competition had Madray competing against fellow Archery Guyana member Robert Singh.

Madray performed well with excellent groupings but then experienced a problem with his equipment. Singh came in 1 point ahead of Madray, the final scores being Singh 531 and Madray 530.

The interest in this virtual competition continues to grow with archers from around the Caribbean participating regularly along with representatives from Europe, Africa, India, Korea, Australia and the USA. Registration for this competition series is done online and athletes choose which session and division they would shoot. Scaleddown target faces are used to suit the specified distances for those shooting from home with limited space.

Equipment inspection is

West Indies to wear Black Lives Matter on Test shirts - Players partner with Watford captain Troy Deeney in support of protests justice and equality

Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton in action during the Austrian Grand Prix at Red Bull Ring.

(REUTERS/Leonhard Foeger/File Photo) becomes the first to host two F1 championship races in the same season.

That could be good news for Dutch crowd-pleaser Max Verstappen, who has brought a home victory for Red Bull for the past two years. There will be no fans, no sponsors, no hospitality units or VIPs and no socialising between teams within a paddock ‘bubble’ where safe spacing and face masks are the ‘new normal’ and everything will take a little longer.

Where the teams stand in the pecking order is also unclear. They have not run their cars in anger since February testing, and have

not raced since December.

Hamilton, who needs seven more wins to equal Schumacher’s record 91, should have a faster car than would have been the case had the season started in Australia on March 15 but so too will rivals bringing months’ worth of updates.

Vettel, a four times world champion, has an uncertain future and will want to go out on a high in his last campaign for Ferrari.

McLaren’s Carlos Sainz will take the German’s place alongside Charles Leclerc in 2021, with Australian Daniel Ricciardo moving from Renault to replace the Spaniard.

Archery Guyana members continue representation at International Remote Competition he 13th stage of the ongoing 60X ISOL Remote S h o o t Vi r t u a l Archery Competition highlighted strong competition among three of Archery Guyana’s members in the Recurve 30m category on Sunday last during the world’s ongoing Lockdown for the Covid-19 Pandemic.

The match ended with Samira Duncan scoring 541 points, whilst Umasankar Madray and Nicholas Hing scored 522 and 518 respectively.

Sunday marked the second appearance of all three archers in this series of matches.

This exciting match took place Sunday in rather wet conditions with our local archers competing throughout the rain which cleared up only after the event was completed.

Duncan’s performance was much improved over her last appearance and she was able to find the 10 ring ten times during her 12 ends.

The competition between Madray and Hing was fierce with Hing having a 22 points

PAGE 31

Umasankar Madray taking aim. done by taking a photo of the bow and arrows, as well as target faces and sent online.

A QR code is then sent for archers to log in and send scores after every end along with pictures of arrows in target for scoring.

The competition continues next Sunday, 5th July with stage 14, as Archery Guyana urges its members with access to safe

home facilities to participate.

All archers are mandated to observe our National health and safety requirements and the PAHO/WHO guidelines for prevention of COVID-19.

Archery Guyana wishes to thank Mr. Robert Singh for his input and facilitation of this Novel competition here in Guyana.

Kemar Roach displaying the Black Lives Matter logo. (CWI) MANCHESTER, England – West Indies players will wear the Black Lives Matter logo on their playing shirts when they face England throughout the upcoming #RaiseTheBat Test Series, starting July 4, as part of the Sandals Tour of England 2020. The decision was taken by the players and team management with the full support of Cricket West Indies (CWI).

The Black Lives Matter emblem was designed by Alisha Hosannah, the partner of Troy Deeney, professional footballer and captain of Watford Football Club (who play in the English Premier League). He was contacted

by CWI and permission was granted for the logo to be displayed on the collar according to ICC regulations.

The logo has a clenched fist in place of the letter “A” in the word “Black”. It was also used on the shirts of all 20 Premier League clubs since football returned behind closed doors following the break for COVID-19.

West Indies captain Jason Holder said: ”This is a pivotal moment in history for sports, for the game of cricket and for the West Indies cricket team. We have come to England to retain the Wisden Trophy but we are very conscious of happenings around the world and the fight for justice and equality. We believe we have a duty to show solidarity and also to help raise awareness.

“As a group of young men, we know of the rich and diverse history of West Indies cricket and we know we are guardians of the great game for generation to come.

We did not take our decision lightly. We know what it is for people to make judgments because of the colour of our skin, so we know what it feels like, this goes beyond the boundary.

There must be equality and there must be unity. Until we get that as people, we cannot stop. We have to find some way to have equal rights and people must not be viewed differently because of the colour of their skin or ethnic background.”

Troy Deeney said: ”Alisha and I are immensely proud to be asked and take part in a monumental moment in world sport, this amazing decision by the West Indies cricket team to show their support for Black Lives Matter. When I got the call, I didn’t hesitate to respond, because I know as sportspersons in the spotlight, how important our efforts are to bring about change and the role we play in move towards change in our society. Watching cricket with my grandad, and seeing Brian Lara transcend from being a cricketer to a worldwide superstar, shaped my childhood, so it’s great to be able to help West Indies Cricket show their support in such a meaningful way.”

West Indies will play England in three Test matches behind closed doors – the first at the at Ageas Bowl in Southampton and the other two at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester, where they are presently based. Due to COVID19 they will train and live in a “bio-secure” environment as part of the comprehensive medical and operations plans to ensure player and staff safety.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 32

Tuesday June 30, 2020

CSA gets sports-ministry green light to resume training

There has been no cricket in South Africa since March 15. (Getty Images)

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SPNcricinfo Cricket South Africa’s (CSA) return-to-trainand-play plans have been approved by the country’s sports ministry and the organisation will meet on Thursday to plot its course back to action.

ESPNcricinfo understands that CSA’s focus will be on getting the national men’s and women’s teams back in action, though franchise and provincial players will continue to wait before they can begin preseason camps. A new date for the 3TC competition - a format in which three teams will play in the same game is not expected imminently.

Last week, CSA was

forced to postpone the 3TC exhibition event, originally scheduled for June 27, because it had yet to receive the government’s green light to train or play. CSA needed both the sports and health m i n i s t r y ’s p e r m i s s i o n because it hoped the match would take place at SuperSport Park, in Centurion, a coronavirus hotspot.

With infections rising as South Africa heads towards its peak (predicted to occur between July and September), CSA may consider an alternative venue for the fixture. One source said CSA would require players to have at least seven days of training before rescheduling the 3TC

match.

This means that for now, CSA’s top priority will be to ensure its national player groups return to organised sessions, especially as they have been out of action for more three months.

There has been no cricket in South Africa since March 15, when the group stage of the domestic one-day cup was completed.

The playoffs and final did not take place. At the time, South Africa’s men’s team was in India playing a three-match ODI series.

After one rained-off fixture, the team returned home.

South Africa went into strict lockdown on March 27 which meant the women’s home series against

Australia had to be postponed. The women’s team will also not travel to play against West Indies. The men’s team has had its whiteball tour of Sri Lanka, which was due to take place this month, put back and next month’s two-Test, five T20I trip to the Caribbean will, at best, be delayed by several weeks.

CSA have identified 44 men’s players who form part of their national training group and these players will return to training in small groups nearest to their franchise grounds on Monday. They will train with coaches in their area, which means that no players will be crossing provincial borders yet, in line with South

SA’s high-performance training roster. (ESPNcricinfo Ltd) Africa’s ongoing lockdown.

Dale Steyn is not part of the group. He was understood to be battling with a back injury.

All training sessions will have to hear to guidelines set out by CSA’s Covid10 Steering Committee which will ensure the correct hygiene and safety protocols are followed. “Our prevention programme, besides the regular testing of players and support staff, is predicated on personal hygiene measures and creating a sanitised ecosystem.

COVID-19 compliance managers at each venue have assumed responsibility to

ensure all the elements of the protocol are implemented,” Dr Shuaib Manjra, CSA’s chief medical officer, said in a release.

South Africa are also hopeful of hosting India for three T20Is in August but have made provision for those fixtures to take place later in the home summer, as far forward as March 2021.

All CSA’s other plans for its national sides will depend on when the ICC makes a decision regarding the T20 Wo r l d C u p a n d 2 0 2 1 Women’s World Cup. The organisation is hopeful of discussing elements of the Future Tours Program at its Thursday meeting.

Captaining England would be ‘huge honour’, says Stokes

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O N D O N (Reuters) England’s talisman Ben Stokes says captaining his country even just once in his career would be a “huge honour” but admits it was never a massive ambition.

The all-rounder is poised to lead the team in the first test against West Indies on July 8 with captain Joe Root likely to miss the game to attend the birth of his second child.

“I’ve given it a little thought but not really dived

into it yet,” the 29-year-old told a virtual news conference yesterday.

“I mean, it’s not like it’s not a big deal. Getting the opportunity to captain England is a huge honour.

Even if it’s only the once, you can say you captained England. “So it’s something that I’m looking forward to if the opportunity presents itself. But also I know I’m only stepping in to take over the reins because of Joe’s personal situation.”

Stokes has matured since his well-chronicled disciplinary problems and was inspirational as England won the World Cup last year.

He is now Root’s trusted vice-captain.

He said the last time he captained a team was during an academy game against

Scotland when he was a teenager.

“I never set a goal to want to be a captain,” Stokes said. “If you look at Alastair Cook he was destined to be captain after Andrew Strauss and Joe Root was destined to be captain after Alastair Cook, you know who the next one will be when one is coming towards the end of his career.

“If I’m being honest, I’m not one of those who people would necessarily associate with being next England captain. But I am looking forward to the opportunity of doing it.”

Should Stokes captain the side next week in Southampton — a match being played in a bio-secure stadium without fans because of the COVID-19

pandemic — he says he will be well prepared.

“Being able learn from Cookie and Joe Root in different situations in the game has rubbed off on me and will put me in good stead for all the situations a test match can throw at you,” he said.

“At the same time we have some experienced guys out on the field I can use like Jimmy (Anderson) and (Stuart Broad) Broady, so many people to throw ideas off.” Stokes said being captain or not, his style will not change.

“I always try to set the example in terms of commitment and attitude,” he said. “When it comes down to what to do in a situation it will always be a positive route.”

England’s Ben Stokes celebrates winning the World Cup. (Action Images via Reuters /Peter Cziborra/File Photo)

Kaieteur News

Tuesday June 30, 2020

PAGE 33

Nat Squash Coach Carl Ince has produced many Champions - Nicolette Fernandes is most outstanding player he has Coached

By Sean Devers At the age of 76, Carl Ince is Guyana’s National Squash Coach and during his 20-year Coaching Career, which is not finished yet, he has inspired many Champions, none more so than outstanding than Guyana and Caribbean Squash Queen Nicolette Fernandes.

The multi-talented Ince, who spent a large part of his life in England, played cricket and Table tennis at School in British Guiana before migrating to England at 16 where he participated in Body Building at 19. He was then involved in Martial Arts as a competitor and later an instructor and was also a musician who played the Piano and Guitar.

He only became interested in Squash at the age of 40. It’s said that life begins at 40 but Ince’s Squash career began at 40 in the strangest of circumstances.

“As a musician I was playing at an Awards Ceremony and saw people playing Squash and thought it looked easy. But one day whilst training for martial arts a guy challenged my fitness, saying I wouldn’t

(L-R) Sarah Lewis, Samuel Ince-Carvalhal, Carl Ince, Nicolette Fernandes & Jamaican Tahjia Lumley receiving their Level 2 England Squash Certification certified by Elite Level 4 Coach Carl Ince.

Coach Carl Ince last five minutes on a Squash Court.

I took up his challenge and proved him right by only lasting three minutes! That made me want to play as it required a high level of fitness and that’s how I started playing Squash,” revealed the Elite Level 4 Coach.

Coach Ince was born in February 1944 in Plaisance on the East Coast, Demerara and is one of 15 brothers and eight sisters from five Marriages.

“Life was not easy to say the least! Still we had a lot of fun swimming in Canals, playing in the back dams and getting into school boy’s mischief,” Ince remembered.

He attended Plaisance

Ince was involved in Martial Arts in the UK.

Methodist School before migrating to England where he attended the Openshaw Technical College.

“I didn’t grow up playing squash. I never played squash until my early 40’s and only played to club league level because I started so late in life.

I became interested in coaching when someone watched me play and asked if I would coach them. Because I was already accustomed to teaching, coaching came easy and I enjoyed seeing the progress my student made,” informed Coach Ince.

“My most memorable moment playing squash was when I played a much higher ranked player who I had been preparing well to face.

During the game I moved into a zone which enabled me to perform at my best and I came out on top. It was such a satisfying feeling that the hard work had paid off and it also gave me insight into how I could develop and of the power of slow adaptation

and progression.

More importantly I realized I would be able to teach others how to utilize these tools,” the Coach added.

And over the last two decades he utilized those ‘tools’ to produce outstanding success, especially at the junior level.

With Ince as National Coach, Guyana won the Junior Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) Championships title for 12 consecutive years, but the hosts team proved that 13 was an unlucky number as Guyana failed in their bid to successfully defend their title for a 13th time in the 2017 tournament which was won by Barbados.

Guyana finished second with only Taylor Fernandes and Shomari Wilshire winning Individual Gold medals.

“I have been fortunate to have experienced many memorable moments as National Coach but my most

Guyana won the 2012 CASA tournament, Coach Ince is standing at left.

memorable was the first time I stood with the team at the flag raising ceremony of my first Junior CASA in the Bahamas. Standing and singing the Guyana National Anthem gave me such a great sense of pride and I was so thankful that I was representing my country,” said the Great Grandfather of four.

Because of Squash, Coach Ince has been privileged to visit Bahamas, Trinidad, Barbados, Jamaica, Bermuda, Tortola, Colombia, India, Sweden, Copenhagen in Denmark, Germany, France, Australia, Scotland and North America.

“Without a doubt, the most outstanding player I coached is Nicolette Fernandes. She was the most outstanding then and she still is!” proclaimed a proud Ince.

In last year’s Senior Squash Caribbean Championship in Guyana the 36-year-old Canadian born Guyanese beat number

one seed 17-year old Bajan Megan Best to claim her sixth Caribbean singles title.

Nicolette turned Pro in 2003 and won Guyana’s only Gold Medal at the 2006 Central American and Caribbean Games in Colombia. The most decorated Guyanese Squash player, she has participated in the World Open, British Open, Hong Kong Open and Qatar Classic.

Coach Ince, who resides on the highway on his farm at Loo Creek with his wife, explained the attributes of a good coach: “Patience, awareness, communication skills, knowledge and the ability to identify and meet student’s needs.

It is also important to involve students in the development process, setting goals together and encouraging reflection, empowering them to analyze their own performance. You have to be able to listen to your students, not just to (Continued on page 25)

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Troy Deeney during a recent game for Watford FC.

Kraigg Brathwaite displaying the Black Lives Matter logo. (CWI) Jason Holder displaying the Black Lives Matter Logo. (CWI)

West Indies to wear Black Lives Matter on Test shirts

- Players partner with Watford captain Troy Deeney in support of protests justice and equality

National Squash Coach Carl Ince has produced many Champions - Nicolette Fernandes is most outstanding player he has Coached

Coach Ince coaching grandson Samuel on his home courts on the Linden highway.

Archery Guyana members continue representation at International Remote Competition

Nicholas Hing preparing to shoot.

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