Kaieteur News

K

GECOM will provide NEWS election results update via official website

Tuesday Edition

AIETEUR

March 03, 2020 - Vol. 13 No. 09

p. Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 2

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

readership yesterday 130,747

It was a grand day!

GECOM Chair says... p.

8

- Minor hiccups resolved throughout the day

Voters at Rama Krishna Primary School, Kitty

Card game turns “Old grudge” leads to bloody deadly after labourer showdown, four critical knifed to death p.

13

p.

19

Minister given total power over oversight body p.

3

- Local Content policy

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday March 03, 2020

GECOM will provide election results update via official website

T

he Guyana Elections C o m m i s s i o n , (GECOM) will provide real time updates on the elections results via its official website.

During an Elections' Day press briefing last evening, GECOM officials urged members of the media not to indulge in sensationalism of any stories as the voting tabulation continues.

“At this time, I would urge members of the media not to sensationalise any of their stories because at this time, we're in a charged atmosphere, and so we have to be careful how we go about spreading stories.

“We must always verify our stories before we publish them.

These things can escalate into mistrust, and even violence,”

GECOM's Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield said. Lowenfield noted that polling has concluded and counting is taking place.

“Our hope that it will conclude in good time to allow for statement of polls to be placed at conspicuous locations outside of polling stations across the spectrum across the country. “Whether it's concluded or not this evening, statements would

be received by returning officers who will all commence a public verification process which includes public display of each statement in every district.

“That process will continue until all the statements for those particular districts are concluded.”

The CEO explained, “Once that is completed, Returning Officers will declare results in the respective

districts. And the Deputy Returning Officers would have ensured that statements for CEOs are forwarded to his office.

“That is the process that will continue throughout the evening.”

The tabulation process was likely to commence at about 22:00 hours last evening. By noon today, all the Returning Officers should have their results for the respective districts.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 03, 2020

PAGE 03

Caribbean Airlines shares Minister given total power coronavirus response plan over oversight committee

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C

aribbean Airlines has announced that it has been monitoring and responding to the coronavirus [COVID19]. In a statement, the airline said, “authorities have not issued travel restrictions to its destinations.”

The airline disclosed, too, that it is committed to the health and safety of both its crewmembers and customers and that it is working directly with health and security officials as well as industry leaders to keep updated and positioned to continue to implement best practice.

As part of its efforts to steadfastly work towards being prepared to deal with a

possible case of the virus, the airline said that it has put in place measures, which include placing special safety kits on board all aircraft and at offices; monitoring the air quality in its aircraft cabins; continuing to ensure compliance with aircraft cleaning procedures, ensuring that all aircraft are properly sanitised at all ports; equipping employees with international guidelines on how to deal with any suspected cases of COVID19; activating a special response team to monitor the situation in real time and promoting frequent hand washing practices among its crewmembers and

passengers.

The airline said, too, that its operations team is putting contingencies in place in the event of any future disruptions.

Also, the airline revealed that it is permitting persons travelling on Caribbean Airlines with onward connections to/from mainland China, Iran, Italy, Japan, South Korea and Singapore to rebook the Caribbean Airlines travel segment without change fees, subject to conditions.

More than 80,000 people have been confirmed infected and more than two thousand dead as a result of the novel coronavirus which originated in Wuhan, China.

Guyanese developer invents facial recognition system that unlocks doors

S

ean Singh is a Guyanese tech developer whose breathtaking invention – facial recognition system – unlocks doors.

A graduate of the University of Guyana, Singh began working on a prototype for the facial recognition security system in 2018, STEM Caribbean reported.

Singh, according to the outlet, deployed the knowledge he acquired from machine learning to develop the prototype incorporating object detection – a technology used in computers to identify objects, such as vehicles, or even faces in an image.

“The first prototype used an approach called object detection. This involved gathering numerous data of the individual faces that I wanted to train the model on,” Singh told STEM Caribbean.

“Everyone at the office pitched in by adding some of their photos to a Google photo album. Then I would

have to spend countless hours labeling these images and assigning a name to them,” he added.

The process worked and the algorithm recognised the faces with decent accuracy.

That notwithstanding, the approach was “very inefficient,” forcing Singh to suspend the project for a couple of months.

Singh would resume work on the project at the end of 2019, according to STEM Caribbean. After a painstaking research, Singh resolved a different approach would suffice.

“After reading a few research papers and combing the World Wide Web, for example, I found an open source project that implemented a framework developed by the developers over at Facebook (yes, there is no shame in standing on the shoulders of giants).

“It was with this and some custom tweaking, that I was able to once again produce another facial recognition prototype,” he said.

Singh is one of the technology developers at V75 Inc. In a video published by the company on YouTube in January, the fascinating technology is tested by founder Eldon Marks followed by other team members.

V75 Inc. is an information technology company based in Guyana. It develops information systems and provides (continued on page 7)

ccording to Guyana's Local Content Policy, the Minister of Petroleum has the sole authority to administer the policy, including the review and approval of the Local Content Plans and Reports of oil companies and their subcontractors.

The policy notes that in due course, this power “may” be bestowed upon a regulatory body.

But in the meantime, the Minister shall establish a Guyana Local Content Oversight Committee, whose purpose is to review his progress in the implementation of the policy; and make recommendations on how to improve same.

The policy also places the oversight committee on the Minister's leash since the final composition, terms of reference and even the modus operandi of the Guyana Content Oversight Committee shall be determined by the Minister.

The Local Content Policy goes on to state that the Committee shall have the authority to request from the Ministry to view in confidence, the approved Operator Local Content Plans, Minister-designated Primary Contractor Local Content Sub-Plans and Operator half yearly and endof-year Local Content Reports, for the explicit and sole purpose of carrying out its function of policy implementation oversight.

It was noted that the modus operandi of the Oversight Committee shall include a Code of Conduct for participants to assure, in part, that viewing these documents remains confidential. The policy explicitly states that the role of the Guyana Local Content Oversight

- Local Content Policy

Committee is “advisory”.

Furthermore, the policy states that the Minister who holds total control over the committee is only answerable to Cabinet.

Of significance is the fact that the Guyana Local Content Oversight Committee shall comprise the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry; representatives of Ministry of the Presidency, Ministry of Business, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Ministry of Finance and the Guyana Office for Investment; Representatives of established Guyanese supplier and professional associations;

Representative of Operators in Guyana; Representative of Primary Contractors in G u y a n a ; a n d Representatives of established Guyanese training/ academic institutions.

While Guyana has opted to allow the Minister to have such control over the Local Content Committee and its members, in other countries, the practice is different.

In Ghana, Trinidad and To b a g o a n d N i g e r i a , members of the Local Content Committees are selected by independent organisations, not the Minister.

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Tuesday March 03, 2020

Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

The wait for the results Now the waiting begins, with each minute of every succeeding hour intensifying discussions, ratcheting up expectations, and leading to numerous conclusions, all unofficial of course, but no less personally reassuring.

It must not be a long one, but the shortest time possible.

Any wait that stretches into the tension-filled and torturing, which gives rise to any and every manner of rampant and irresponsible speculation must be avoided like a plague.

Nothing good usually comes out from suspicious delays, nor does anyone emerge unscathed. Neither family nor community nor country do well when the clock keeps getting extended.

Today, Tuesday March 3, the deed is done, and from all reports it was, on the broadest of national levels, encouraging and calming.

The hard part now comes with a sharp rough rush.

There is sure to be a barrage of amateur counts from unreliable self-appointed authorities, and those positioned strategically for just such delayed eventualities to go to work and spread socially radioactive material.

We, on the other hand, are ready to go against the excitable political tides and stick to the facts as officially sanctioned for release, when they are forthcoming.

This society could do without the conjectural, we will not be a part of any such developments or problems. It is why we call on our fellow citizens to be patient, to manage emotions and calculations, to look beyond the tightly partisan.

All must gird themselves to respond to electoral counting and reporting developments in a thoroughly sensible and sober way. We say this because elections results, especially the bad news of being on the losing side, should not and must not-be interpreted as so life altering as to be life ending.

Whatever the outcome of this year’s elections, it must be respected and accepted. It must be recognised and conceded to at the earliest. The serious business of managing the multiple precious assets of this country and the wellbeing of the wide cross-section of its peoples weigh heavily and immediately.

There is no room for the usual sullenness or the simmering furies that have always swamped. This is a country poised on the edge of prosperity, almost on the threshold of possible immortality, one that waits to be governed.

That immortality and greatness will only come if we focus on the things that hold strong promise to take somewhere.

So whether winner or loser, there is now the opportunity and duty to hold any victorious government’s feet to the heat. It must be a searing, unrelenting heat, which knows not friends and allies, but only those who are committed to doing right with us, for us, and by us.

Starts with oil, continues with diversity and inclusion, goes still further with openness and accountability, and climaxes in hands open to inspection and passing any manner of reading. It is utterly useless to continue to be the selective, biased, and trapped historians that we have always been a people with piercing memories that are longer than our passage in this pale, perhaps of time itself.

Like the committed and contented (self-destructive) addict, all we do is dig a deeper grave into which we can stumble and rest until the last dose wears off. The poor unfortunates that we pity and patronise on the streets, who then careen forward to the temporary comforting oblivion of a bodily fix are reminders of how we are--each of us deniers and objectors--in our contributing, participating, and managing the daily life of this nation.

Is this what we want for ourselves? Is this how we wish to continue? Is this who we really are when an unmatchable heritage has come our way? Where we desire nothing but the comforts of the pavement or the gutter?

We may not care, but this is how the world sees, and will continue to see us. That is, unless we commit to rehabilitating ourselves voluntarily. It is going to be painful and draining but, like the street addict, we must want to turn away from the nightmares of our tortured existence.

My limited view of electoral Guyana DEAR EDITOR, A hush stretched over Georgetown on Sunday and built throughout the day.

Expected it was, etched with shades of the profound, almost eerie in its distinctive, yet indefinable, fabric and contours. I sensed a nation suddenly awakening to its circumstances, and coming to grips, just as abruptly, with the magnitude of what is before it, the seriousness of its responsibilities, the immortality of its possibilities, given the treasured place where it is perched.

There was a lower volume to speech, a definitely lower cadence, a softer, less urgent rhythm to interactions and exchanges. The moment is here; it is now was what I grasped. All that is left is the how the realities railed against, the circumstances dreamed about, the probabilities weighed and measured, will unfold and solidify.

How will we be? How will this turn out? To where will we go? At the end of it all,

the bottom-line questions: to do what with that which we have been blessed? To be how to each other? All roads lead unerringly to these nonnegotiable destinations.

How will leaders and groups be to voters, especially nonbelievers, as in those not voting for them.

How will friends and neighbours be to fellow countrymen, and all of them (us) to passing strangers (also us). How will we become next Monday? Perhaps, as early as Wednesday this week, if not before?

The passions and expectations have electrified and powered us hard and uncontrolled to this challenging crossroad on the edge of a surging but unknown and tremulous destiny. As we face the inevitable uncertainties beyond this Monday, I think there has to be confidence in contemporaries and self to face the frontiers of fortune.

This is the imperative: any misfortune that accompanies the lush heritage that belongs

to all of us.

It is why I say we must not hesitate; we must not shrink from the obligations of peaceful and dignified citizens, conscientious ones.

Together we must face the destiny of Guyana, whatever it is, and rise to the challenge.

As one. In unison.

From Sunday to Monday morning, I travel to share my brief journeys and observances of early Elections Day. It is before 6 a.m. and still somewhat dark.

I crisscross from Alberttown to Cummingsburg to Brickdam and then through Lacytown, with a little bit of Wortmanville on the periphery. And there it was!

The hush and the awakening and coming to grips of Sunday taking purposeful life at this quiet but stirring presunrise hour.

There were these small clusters of citizens going somewhere; they were everywhere, and not coming from anywhere but going to some specific place. There were these highly unusual

scenes of more pedestrians on the roads before 6 a.m. than vehicles, be they buses, taxis, or otherwise. They were not street people either.

I strongly believe that all the movement was not to work or play, but to the serious business of voting. This was confirmed when I arrived at church: the attendance was thrice the normal gathering, which almost without exception, consisted of adults, eligible voting adults mind you. On the way back from worship, including prayers for the nation and the processes of today, this was further confirmed from the increasing presences and energies on the ground.

At voting places prior to 7 a.m., the lines were there: quiet, conversational in spots, serious and focused all around. By the time I was finished, some 25 minutes later, another line of another couple dozen had formed to exercise the franchise.

I was glad to observe the professionalism in the (Continued on page 5)

A supreme opportunity for humanity to find workable solutions that benefit us all DEAR EDITOR, Over the past year, there has been no shortage of looming disasters that pose a serious threat to humanity, including uncontrollable wild fires and forest fires precipitated by climate change, and the dangers of an accidental plunge into nuclear war as a result of miscalculation and brinkmanship.

The recent outbreak of a novel coronavirus, known as COVID-19, is now likely to become the pandemic that we have been fearing for some time.

Although much is still unknown about the virus, what experts do know is that it is extremely contagious, like the infamous 1918 Spanish flu that infected approximately one-third of the world’s population and killed between 20 and 50 million people, and that the new virus likely mortality rate is 1% to 3% of those infected.

While the threat to human life is already engendering fear and anxiety, knock-on impacts to the global economy are likely to be just as severe.

To contain the virus, borders are being closed, flights canceled, whole towns locked down, factories and schools closed, and sporting, entertainment, trade-show, and other large events canceled.

In a world that is as interconnected as ours is

such restrictions disrupt manufacturing and retail supply chains, with the dual effect of threatening a c c e s s t o s u p p l i e s a nd potentially causing a global recession.

It is no wonder that our typical response is either to feel fearful, helpless, apathetic, and sink into despair or to feel angry, frustrated, and quick to blame someone else — the people of some other country, health officials, or even our neighbours and friends who unwittingly carry the infection and expose the rest of us to it.

While such reactions are understandable given the level of risk associated with the spread of the coronavirus, and the many uncertainties that accompany its spread, in reality both reactions are destructive and do not serve us.

Moreover, when we feel helpless or angry and blame others, our perceptions of the options available to us tend to be blinkered. When we need to be most creative and energetic in crafting constructive responses and solutions, we become apathetic, depressed, and anxious. We also become more prone to a fight-or-flight response and to conflict with others.

All of these emotions ultimately lead either to inaction, delayed or halfbaked action with too little

done, too late, or to endless blame-games that, in the end, also do not help us meet the challenges at hand.

What if instead of viewing these same events, including the spreading coronavirus, as looming disasters, we were to view them as a supreme opportunity for humanity to finally learn to communicate in a spirit of goodwill and transparency, and to cooperate and collaborate on finding workable solutions that benefit us all?

What if instead of viewing other nations and their actions as enemies and threats, we viewed them as indispensable and valuable allies with whom to join forces in the fight against a global threat?

Commentators like David Ignatius of the Washington Post and experts like the editors of Nature Medicine are starting to suggest that the coronavirus presents us with a unique opportunity to do just this.

For this to happen, we need to change our perspective on social reality from seeing disparate nations each concerned exclusively and foremost with its own well-being to seeing a single global organism, a single global community that is interconnected in much the same way that the limbs and organs of the human body are connected.

Just as it would be nonsensical and futile for the

liver to claim that it was not concerned about the health of the kidneys because it was focused first and foremost upon its own well-being, and just as the heart could never be truly healthy in a body where the lungs were riddled with disease, so, too, is it nonsensical and futile for individual countries and social groups to claim and act solely or even primarily, without regard for the consequences and benefits to other countries and groups.

What if we understood that the only way to guarantee the well-being and health of any one of our nations requires ensuring the wellbeing of all nations? Such a shift in perspective would reveal new ways of organising our global community, of decisionmaking and behaviour that open up new and effective pathways to addressing the seemingly intractable challenges of our time.

Such a shift in perspective requires both awareness and acceptance of the reality of our unprecedented interconnections as a global community of nations, and of the imperative to act together collaboratively in order to solve collective challenges. It also requires us to acknowledge that we have the power to make different, more empowering choices.

Yours Rooplall Dudhnath

Tuesday March 03, 2020

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Kaieteur News

Some Caribbean diplomats conveniently ignore certain arguments in the Guyana-Venezuela dispute DEAR EDITOR, Regional and indeed global attention focused on Guyana’s general election yesterday, because it represents the latest stage in its domestic political crisis and also in the historic controversy over land and maritime frontiers with Venezuela, that have been unfolding ever since the US oil giant ExxonMobil discovered significant oil resources in disputed waters with Venezuela.

When the coalition between A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU-AFC) won the general election in May 2015, there was a degree of general optimism that Guyana had finally left behind decades of ethnic division and political polarisation in favour of multi-ethnic powersharing.

President David Granger promised to tackle the country’s high crime rate, unemployment, and corruption, as well as drug and human trafficking.

However, this policy agenda was eclipsed swiftly by oil ambitions, with ExxonMobil also announcing in 2015 that it had discovered high-quality oil about 200 km off the Essequibo coastline. Total discoveries since then, have been estimated in over 8 billion barrels of oil equivalent and Guyana could see its GDP triple in the next decade.

Unfortunately, new political battle lines have been drawn over who will manage the oil wealth.

Critics and opponents, not least the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), have questioned the Granger Administration’s handling and negotiation of contracts.

Under the production sharing agreement (PSA) between ExxonMobil and Guyana, 75

percent of oil revenue will initially go to the company by way of cost recovery. The remaining 25 percent will be split 50/50 with the Government. The contract includes an effective royalty rate of 2 percent on gross earnings, meaning the Government will receive a total of 14.5 percent of initial oil revenues, rising gradually over time.

The deal also exempts ExxonMobil from corporation, excise, and value-added taxes on its earnings. These conditions are hard-wired into the PSA by its own Article 32, which prevents the Government from modifying the contract or increasing fiscal obligations. Similar terms have been reached in PSAs with other oil concessions.

In December 2019, ExxonMobil announced “first oil” production, making it much harder for any incoming Government to renegotiate terms. This coincided with a number of announcements about infrastructure investments that President Granger used in his favour during the electoral campaign.

In three weeks after the general election of Guyana, between March 23 and 27, the ICJ will begin the oral hearings in order to resolve the question of its jurisdiction, that it properly should be determined before any proceeding on merits of the case. Guyana submits that the Article IV of the Geneva Agreement authorised the UN SecretaryGeneral to decide which appropriate mechanism to adopt for the peaceful settlement of the dispute, in accordance with Article 33 of the UN Charter, and cited the arbitrary and eclectic statement of the UN Secretary-General Mr.

My limited view of...

From page 4 process, the general ambience in the streets. I trust that it will hold firmly as the process intensifies along with the fevered expectations. By late evening, the two major contestants would be sure to have a sound sense of where they and their main competition stand. I trust, also, that this is not when the contingencies of different calculations and prepared objections are set in motion.

All of this is up in the air, as I write to share at just after 09:00hrs.

The situation could change drastically overnight.

That is where the rubber will hit the road and Guyana will gain the first insights of where temperatures and things are heading.

May it be to and for the positive as super Tuesday comes to this society.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

António Guterres on 30th January 2018, where he said that he “chose” the ICJ and also good offices as a complementary process.

Nevertheless, with that decision, UN SecretaryGeneral misunderstood and exceeded his authority under Article IV of the Geneva Agreement, because Article 33 of UN Charter referred in general about “judicial settlement”; while the ICJ has specific norms (Statute and Rules) about how it works.

All members of the UN are Parties ipso facto to the Statute of the ICJ, but Article 36 of the Statute and jurisprudence of ICJ are very clear: the States must unequivocally consent – in accordance with principle of sovereignty – to its compulsory jurisdiction in order that ICJ could pass judgment upon disputes. It is a principle of International Law that lex specialis prima and the UN Secretary General could not replace the will of a sovereign State.

On the other hand, Venezuela has a inveterate doctrine of foreign policy that consists of not submitting issues related with its territorial integrity to adjudicative methods that involve the settlement of these disputes by international tribunals, due to its traumatic historical experience with international arbitrations in the 19th century like the Arbitral Award of 1899, which was decided behind its back and enforced under the threat of coercion of the great powers.

For these reasons, Venezuela is not participating in the proceedings. Never has it given its consent to the jurisdiction of the ICJ, neither by way of any unilateral statement under Article 36 of its Statute, through any multilateral treaties like Bogotá Pact or the UNCLOS, nor signed any special agreement with Guyana

conferring competence to the ICJ in the matter of controversy.

Moreover, the Geneva Agreement was not notified to the Registry of the ICJ, after being registered by United Nations Secretariat on 5 May 1966 under number 8192, because it did not include any clause relating to the jurisdiction of the ICJ. Other issues remain open about the admissibility of the Guyana unilateral application: a) Diplomatic methods have not been exhausted; b) The absence of the indispensable Party that generated this controversy in the past, the United Kingdom – also signatory of Geneva Agreement –, which neither recognizes the jurisdiction of the ICJ for historical controversies before 1987; c) Guyana demands the Venezuelan “immediately withdraw” of the Island of Ankoko which belongs to Venezuela and not even is it mentioned in Arbitral Award of 1899; d) Guyana asks for sovereign rights on maritime areas, and it is worth remembering, that according to International Law, only when the Parties have peacefully resolved the controversy over the land frontier, could they proceed to negotiations in order to delimit marine and submarine areas, because it is another pending controversy.

Consequently, the ICJ following the International Law will determine soon it does not have jurisdiction, and the controversy over Essequibo will come back again to the hands of UN Secretary General and the Parties in order to agree a diplomatic method that really fits with the Geneva Agreement, which established the purpose of “seeking satisfactory solutions for practical settlement of the controversy” and stated that it “should therefore be amicably resolved in a manner acceptable to both Parties”.

Venezuela has not claimed

rights to two-thirds of the territory of Guyana; it reclaims that it was traumatically stripped of a fifth part of its territory by the old British imperialism in its first years of independent life; a poisoned fruit which was inherited by the peoples of Guyana and Venezuela.

Anyway, the Geneva Agreement has been a new chapter to resolve the controversy over Essequibo, which was the outcome of a great mix of technical investigation and diplomatic work, allowing to be left behind the painful wound of the Arbitral Award of 1899.

However, let’s cite the opinion of a prominent opponent of this agreement, the founder of PPP and former President of Guyana, Cheddi Jagan, in his book ‘The West on Trial: My Fight for Guyana’s Freedom’: “Recognition was thus given to the spurious Venezuelan territorial claim, and what was a closed case since 1899 was re-opened”. Therefore, it is an unsustainable contradiction to invoke the Geneva Agreement to unilaterally file an application in order to make requests to the ICJ “to confirm the legal validity and binding effect” of the Arbitral Award of 1899.

Some Caribbean diplomats conveniently ignore all these arguments, and affirm that the unilateral judicial road followed by Guyana against Venezuela must be

considered in an amicable way, that it will be the warranty to permanently resolve the pending controversies over land and maritime frontiers, and it would constitute a positive base to build a stronger cooperation between these two Caribbean “continental islands” and next-door neighbours in the long term.

Notwithstanding, these diplomats must intrigue less, and read more of Sir Norman Girvan – a distinguished Caribbean intellectual and the last Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General who sought to advance the good offices process to resolve the controversy over Essequibo, and regrettably passed away in 2014 – who appealed for constructing the Greater Caribbean: “We will always be where we are; and the Sea always be with us. We have no choice but to centre our world on this space; to embrace our Sea and make it ours”.

For the benefit of our peoples, not for oil companies’ profits and shortsighted politicians/diplomats.

Dr. Kenneth Ramírez & Prof. Mirna Yonis Members of the Board of Directors of the Venezuelan Council on Foreign Relations (known by its Spanish acronym, COVRI) and professors at the School of International Studies – Universidad Central de Venezuela (UCV)

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 03, 2020

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 03, 2020

PAGE 07

ExxonMobil pursues development of heavy oil at Stabroek Block's Hammerhead well

By Kiana Wilburg

E

xxonMobil's subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), has submitted an application to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to undertake the development of its ninth discovery on the Stabroek Block, the Hammerhead well.

This discovery was announced in August 2018 and was drilled in a new reservoir, encountering approximately 197 feet (60 meters) of high-quality, oilbearing sandstone reservoir.

The proposed project will be implemented in multiple stages, which include the follow ing activities: well drillings and completions; mobilisation and installation of subsea equipment, umbilicals, risers and flow lines; installation of a Floating Production Storage and Offloading facility; production operations, and decommissioning.

According to an advertisement in the daily newspapers, the EPA said that the proposed project will be undertaken in the marine offshore environment within Guyana's territorial waters and would require landbased activities for support at marine shore bases.

As a result of the intended development activities, the EPA noted that possible effects to the environment may include impacts on marine water quality, air quality, marine fauna, socio-economic resources, among others.

Further to this, the EPA noted that the Operator of the Stabroek Block would have to submit an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the Project. Following this, it said that members of the public are invited within 28 days of this notice to make written submissions to

the agency, setting out questions and matters which they require answered or considered in the EIA. The EPA also said that a summary of the project can be viewed on the EPA website but it was not present on the site when checks were made by Kaieteur News up to press time.

Most of the oil in the Stabroek Block have been described as light, sweet crude but this is not the case for Hammerhead.

While ExxonMobil has been tightlipped about the kind of oil in Hammerhead, its partner on the Stabroek Block, Hess Corporation, disclosed last year that Hammerhead contained heavy oil. Specifically, Hess Corporation's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), John Hess made this disclosure at the 2019 Global Energy Conference.

He was at the time presenting the keynote address on Perspectives on Global Oil Outlook.

During the conference, the Hess CEO was asked by investors to state if there should be any cause for worry about Hammerhead which extends into the Orinduik Block. At that time, the market was already informed that two wells on the Orinduik Block, Jethro and Joe, contained heavy oil, which is less valuable on the world market.

Hess maintained that there was no need for investors to be concerned while noting that ExxonMobil, which is the operator of the block, has drilled three wells in the Hammerhead area and would not have done so if it was not deemed commercial.

The CEO said, “...As you go into the shallow waters, Hammerhead is an indicator of this, the oil is definitely heavier. But what we have there is a pretty big tank of

Guyanese developer invents facial recognition system...

From page 3 conversational artificial intelligence engineering solutions for businesses.

The company also supports the development of budding tech developers in Guyana by creating opportunities such as internships and paid apprenticeship programmes through Nexus Hub Inc., a

non-profit run by the company.

Singh's goal is to improve on his invention and customise it to one's liking.

“I plan to continue work on improving this system and eventually creating a useful product out of it,” he said. (face2faceafrica.com)

oil and…That is going to be a commercial development.

Plans are going ahead with that. The specifics of that I can't get ahead of …”

The official added, “In the way the geology of the block works…as you go inboard, the oil tends to get heavier. That's the case with Hammerhead. And so, it doesn't surprise me that even more inboard, Tullow (the Operator of the Orinduik Block) has a heavier outcome.”

Further to this, the CEO said that the oil in Hammerhead is not only heavier than what is contained in Liza Phase One but also that in Phase Two and its potentially third field development project, Payara. “…But at the end of the day, it is very much commercial,” the CEO added.

According to Berenberg Bank, one of the world's largest multinational investment banks, it projected that Exxon's Hammerhead discovery holds 800M net recoverable resources, with the Orinduik Block operator poised to

Map showing the location of the Hammerhead discovery on the Stabroek Block.

(Source: Hess Corporation)

cash in when production comes on stream.

Even as it pursues this fourth venture, ExxonMobil is yet to receive the green light from the EPA for its third development project on the Stabroek block called

Payara.

According to documents in the possession of the Environmental Protection Agency, EEPGL's Payara development will be located in the eastern area of the Stabroek Block, which is

approximately 190 km (118 miles) from Georgetown.

The operator notes that oil production from Payara is expected to last at least 20 years with startup of the facilities expected to occur approximately in mid-2023.

Persons with underlying conditions most at risk for coronavirus - CMO

T

h e n o v e l coronavirus, COVID-19, which emerged last year in China and has since found its way into a number of other countries, has claimed thousands of lives (the majority in China).

Since defining the strain of the virus, experts have been working to decipher who is most at risk.

Speaking to this recently was Chief Medical Officer [ C M O ] , D r. S h a m d e o Persaud, who pointed out that, “most of the deaths were among older persons with co-morbidities or underlying conditions.”

These conditions, Dr. Persaud said, can put someone at higher risk of developing complications from the coronavirus.

Among these, he said, are “Things like diabetes, lung problems, some kidney conditions, underlying cardiovascular problems, other infections that may reduce the body's ability to r e s p o n d i n a n immunosuppressant way, some medications; smoking has been another factor that has been considered.

“All these things can reduce your chance of

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud putting up a fight against this virus,” said the senior health official.

Ta k i n g t h i s i n t o consideration, Dr. Persaud said that most countries have subscribed to at least 14 days screening and quarantine period for persons suspected to have contracted the virus.

Dr. Persaud said that Ministry personnel have been finding out from persons, especially those screened, whether they have family members with any of the underlying conditions.

“We alerted them to keep themselves isolated, even though they are at home, as

far as possible, observe all of the hygiene measures including washing hands frequently and if they do need to provide any additional precaution like wearing a mask or so, we stand ready to do that,” assured Dr. Persaud.

Currently, the Ministry has acquired supplies of personal protective equipment, gloves, masks, hand sanitizers and disinfectant, but, according to Dr. Persaud, “We will probably need to have more.”

The coronavirus is believed to be transmitted from person to person in much the way the cold virus spreads. It manifests with symptoms including fever, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath and cough.

Thus far, the CMO said that Guyana has not had any coughing patients but “we have the plan in place to put that immediately into effect if we do have and we have secured a lot of supplies and we are still looking at beefing up our system altogether.”

Diagnosing a person for the virus is done by way of a nasopharyngeal swab, which

entails collecting a sample from the nose or the throat in order to conduct a laboratory test called Polymerase chain reaction [PCR].

Guyana, according to Dr. Persaud, has capacity to do preliminary testing for the virus and these, he said, are confirmed by labs including the Caribbean Public Health Agency in Trinidad, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, in Brazil and other countries too. The coronavirus, Dr. Persaud insisted, is a condition that must be confirmed by a laboratory for a definitive diagnosis to be made.

Since Guyana has been on alert for the virus, a total of 53 persons were screened, there were a few suspected cases that required that samples be taken for testing from a few.

“For now, we have the capacity...We have been collecting samples and testing but no positives were detected,” said Dr. Persaud.

“We can also test for Influenza A and B which we also do, and we find that some of our cases with flu like symptoms will present with those infections.”

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Tuesday March 03, 2020

It was a grand day! … Minor hiccups resolved throughout the day - GECOM Chair

By Kemol King and Shikema Dey

P

olls for the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections were off to a smooth start as reported by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) with Chairperson Justice Claudette Singh (ret'd) looking forward to having an “incident free” day.

She voted early in the morning, then made several visits to polling places to ensure operations were running smoothly.

She had days ago announced that GECOM was ready to produce free, fair and credible elections.

And so were the people.

They started to wake up hours before the polls opened, much to the dismay of late sleepers, beckoning to their neighbours, family and friends, in some areas, to get out and vote.

In some parts, persons banged pots, pans, while others blew horns. Some even spoke of persons

[from left] Guyana Elections Commission public relations officer, Yolanda Ward; chair, Justice(ret'd) Claudette Singh and chief elections officer, Keith Lowenfield walking the streets calling out to sleepers, “Wake up and vote!”

News coverage touched parts of the East and West Coast Demerara, East Berbice, the Essequibo Coast and Georgetown, Bartica and Linden. If the turnout and enthusiasm in these areas were a fair portrayal of the entire country, then it meant yesterday's election lived up

to its reputation as the 'mother of all elections'.

Kaieteur News reporters said that some polling places drew crowds even before the polls opened; eager to get it done.

Several observer missions set out to provide coverage for all ten administrative regions.

Kaieteur News met with representatives of the Carter Centre, the European Union

(EU), the Commonwealth Group, and the Organisation of American States (OAS), who all relayed that they were pleased with how the process was going.

GECOM, at its first press conference held at 10:00 hours at the media centre on Hadfield and High Streets, reported that so far, there were no major issues experienced countrywide.

Several minor issues

were highlighted but these were quickly sorted out and did not adversely affect the smooth voting process.

According to Justice Claudette Singh, the Chairperson, there were two minor hiccups during on her examinations of the polling places.

At St. Gabriel's Primary School in Queenstown, Georgetown persons using wheelchairs and others with

disabilities were unable to properly access the polling stations located in the upper flat.

This issue was quickly resolved.

Persons also raised concerns about the ink being 'too light' but were reassured that the ink would later become dark as it dried.

Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield, in his remarks reported that voting across the region commenced at 6:00am with the exception of Cashew Island with only eleven voters.

Lowenfield explained that the location of the island prohibited the early start of polls there but voting kicked off at 9:00am.

On his review of polling places, two key reports were made. In Crane village, West Coast, Demerara, an elector came out to vote but was told that she already voted. But after several checks, this was not so and the woman was allowed to vote.

The same issue surfaced (continued on page 23)

International observer missions report smooth flow of operations on Election Day

T

Former Prime Minister of Barbados and Chairman of the Commonwealth Observer Group, Owen Arthur

he operation of yesterday's General and Regional Elections went smoothly and without any major hiccups.

This was based on reports provided by international observer missions—the European U n i o n ( E U ) , Commonwealth Observer Group, the Carter Center, and the Organization of American States (OAS).

The day began early for the observer missions, who all wanted to see the opening of the 06:00AM polls.

During their brief press conferences, heads of the missions were emphatic that at the time, there were no tensions at the various polling stations they visited.

Former Prime Minister of Barbados and Chairman of the Commonwealth Observer Group, Owen Arthur, explained that the Commonwealth has had a long tradition of observer missions all across the

(From left) Former Prime Minister of Senegal, Aminata Toure and Head of the Carter Center, Jason Carter region in its pursuit of good governance and transparency.

Against this backdrop, he assured that his observer mission would ensure that they achieve their goal.

Arthur added, “We have been fulfilling our duties to observe. We were there just when the polls opened and it would appear as though the elections are being conducted in an orderly

fashion.”

Co-leader of the Carter Center observer mission, Jason Carter, concurred with the positive reports of the other groups, but urged Guyanese to be patient as they cast their votes.

During a press engagement with the Former Prime Minister of Senegal, Aminata Toure, Carter stated that the centre has only seen a “little snippet” of what the

election is like, but believes that Guyanese need to be patient.

He added that we should not look at the election period as a report from one region or polling station, but the entire country.

He continued, “And so part of the patience is going to be listening to the reports as they come in and know that we have to see the (continued on page 22)

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 03, 2020

PAGE 09

God is in control Y

e s t e r d a y, a pastor was walking past the boss man's house when he noticed him in the hammock.

The Godly man hailed out the boss man and asked him whether he had voted as yet.

The boss has a booming voice. But this time, he quietly turned to the pastor and said, “I voting for the Man Upstairs.”

Guyanese are in state of great anxiety and anticipation over the outcome of elections. They are eager to learn who has won and who has lost.

Getting anxious is not going to ensure that the results are declared earlier. So persons have to be patient and not fall victim to rumours and false news.

It is understandable that persons are anxious. Many of them have worked extremely hard. They have given it their all. They would like their labours to be rewarded with a victory for their party. But all of this hard work is just a test from God to see our dedication.

The Bible says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with

thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which t r a n s c e n d s a l l understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

As Guyanese await the results of the general and regional elections, they must recognise one thing. The results of the elections are out of their hands.

It is now in the hands of God. The Creator will decide who will rule Guyana for the next five years. Whoever He wants, will end up being the leader of this country. The most therefore any of us can do is to sit and wait until His will is done.

God is seeing everything.

He is seeing how the parties are fighting for control of the oil wealth. He has a plan.

Leave it Him. He knows what He is doing. God is in charge; not man.

God is testing and strengthening our faith in everything that is done and will be done. He is making us stronger, even in His appointment. He will never give us more than we have to bear.

Man is not God. Some persons want to believe that

they can determine the future. But it is only God who knows what the future will bring.

We are not in control of anything. The political parties, their activists and their supporters may delude themselves into believing that it is their efforts, which will determine the outcome of the elections.

It is not for you or me to determine anything. Many feel that they are in control of their own actions. But they are fulfilling their purpose here on earth by working for a cause.

In the end, it is God who will determine the outcome and they are the ones who will benefit from the opportunity, which He provided to campaign fiercely for the party of their choice.

It is no use worrying about who will win the elections. You have done your part by supporting the party or parties of your choice. The rest lies outside of our power.

If God does not want something, Man cannot will it.

“Don't worry; be happy.

So as the song goes.

Dem boys seh...

Some people oversleep and couldn't vote

F

rom de time Charran Rass h o l l e r ' Ye s …

Yes... Yes…” and help pass a no-confidence motion, Guyana was de place to hear cuss and bad name. Who wasn't a crook was a scamp or a thief. Dem boys hear who tek money from de Treasury and who tek from ExxonMobil.

In de few months before yesterday, de pace heat up.

People search and find de oil contract and dem see some strange things.

Things reach de stage wheh people couldn't find anything good about de oil contract.

As de day draw closer, people start to cuss Soulja Bai more and more. But by de time de day arrive, things get quiet. De focus switch from oil so fast dat at one stage dem boys wonder if

anything else was happening. People forget bout oil.

Some people hardly sleep de night before. And is not dat some of dem never vote before. But Jagdeo was de public enemy fuh some people and de savior fuh others.

Dem who hate him couldn't wait to vote. Nuff people want to see Soulja Bai out of de way.

Ever since de last elections, dem was planning suh when yesterday come was like dem couldn't reach de polling station fast enough.

De Waterfalls boss Man watch de scene and decide dat he gon vote when de confusion done.

He was one of de people who wake up before bird wife. When he see de crowd at dem polling station, he

mek de mistake to go back to bed.

Dem boys seh how de man sleep like Snow White after she eat de poison apple wha de wicked witch give her. When he do wake up, de polling places close. Now de man trying to call de GECOM Chairperson to see if she gon open a polling station suh he can vote today.

And while he trying to molest de lady, odda people causing confusion. Some people nearly come to blows at Mon Repos because all of dem want to watch de ballot box. People start a rumour bout how dem have people sharing out fake identification cards.

But de confusion didn't last long, suh is de count people waiting for now.

Talk half and watch to see who gon run mad.

We worry too much about things over which we have no control. The Bible says, “Do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.

“Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little

thing, why do you worry about the rest?”

Worrying adds nothing to your life. It is not going to add anything to your life because you are not in control.

Wo r r y i n g a b o u t something which you cannot control does nothing for you or those around you since fate is predetermined and we all just passersby in the world acting out our part until the times comes for us to return to God. So live everyday as if it is your last day. In life, there

will be joyous moments and heartbreak moments. We have to learn to accept the good with the bad, the hurt and the happiness because ultimately, it is the Man Upstairs who decides.

(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 March 03, 2020

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

There is a winner; let's deepen the governance of equality

I

could not have commented on the winner of the 2020 election because this submission has a deadline which would be early Monday evening. I sent this piece to Kaieteur News long before the final count was completed.

This is Tuesday morning.

By now, certain people would know the election results even though they are not official and probably will not be official by the time my Wednesday column is out.

But the two big parties plus organisations like the Carter Centre would have had a glimpse of how the trend went and would know the likely winner.

So at the time of publication of this edition of KN, some people know the 2020 election results. My prediction is a very close finish or a minority government for

one of the large groups. It is done, there is a winner. It is time now to take Guyana into the future.

We as Guyanese have to build on our oil economy.

The winner is now in control of an economy where spending does not have to be allocated to certain sections of Guyana o n l y. B u t m o r e t h a n economics, there must be sociology and politics.

When the APNU+AFC won the election, I was heartbroken over my failure at campaign promises. Two persons came up to me on the Stabroek Market Square and reminded me that I spoke at a campaign meeting at Bagotstown and promised them house lots. I apologised and agreed to help them.

I couldn't see any official much less the minister. Then months later, I tried the Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, and told him I

made an election promise to these two women. Bulkan has proven to be the most accommodating minister in the post-2015 government.

After the government changed in 2015, Geoff Da Silva, head of GOINVEST lost his job and thus returned to Canada. This was one person that the government should have kept. Not because you were associated with a party that lost power, it means you never had integrity.

I thought Geoff Da Silva, then, Head of GOINVEST was one heck of a fair man who didn't see Guyana as Black versus Indian or PNC versus PPP. I thought Da Silva would have worked with the 2015 dispensation with professional ethics and not party bias.

The Minister of Business from the AFC for which I campaigned, and whose

portfolio encompassed GOINVEST could not see me. I asked Minister Cathy Hughes for an audience. She agreed to meet ten days after I originally contacted her. By that time, I wasn't in the mood to meet her.

The new government has to work with professional Guyanese and stop shutting people out because of their race and so-called political association. I agree that seasoned activists that gave so much time, energy, sweat and blood must be given recognition. Even Obama rewarded people who contributed to his campaign.

But the new government and new president, whether Ali or Granger has to reach out to all Guyanese and stop this nonsense of winner-take-all games.

It will not work. It has never worked. Oil money will not bring placid waves onto the sociological and cultural shores of Guyana if shortsighted leaders use oil

money to fatten their friends and supporters.

Every president from Burnham, including all of them right up to 2020 have not reached out but have practised the politic of suspicion, bias and rejection in relation to the other half of Guyana.

I meet people all the time because of my presence as a social activist and newspaper columnists, and the refrain is repeated non-stop“Freddie you think they will spend oil money responsibly?�

I am not going to lie. My reply has always been that I don't think we can trust the PPP and PNC to cultivate the culture of nationalistic fairness.

For all his visionary thinking, Burnham succumbed to the politics of party patronage. For all his international standing, Cheddi Jagan was an equal culprit perhaps more than Burnham. You see, Burnham felt he was a phenomenon

Frederick Kissoon that can convert anyone who opposed to him.

That is why when I won UG top student award, he asked me to meet with him.

Jagan, on the other hand, was sadly an insecure man who would never have taken the chance to offer a substantial position to a critic. I will never forget my talk with President Cheddi Jagan when he refused to appoint Clive Thomas as Vice-Chancellor of UG. Jagan told me that Thomas must apply for the job. Guyana has a new government. It must reach out; it has to or Guyana will continue to die slowly.

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

Tuesday March 03, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday March 03, 2020

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Tuesday March 03, 2020

PAGE 13

“Old grudge� leads to bloody showdown on Quamina Street

F

our females were all rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital after a yearold feud resulted in a blood bath, which left all parties involved nursing severe injuries about their bodies.

The injured women were identified as 35-year-old Shavel Accra, of Lot 92 Block 'E' South Sophia; her cousin 25-year-old Toshawn Giles, of Lot 28 Holmes S t r e e t , S o u t h Cummingsburg; 21-year-old Niketa Lewis, of Lot 12 'A' Queen Street, South Cummingsburg and her sister 24-year-old Stacyann Chandra of the same address.

The bloody showdown occurred yesterday at Quamina Street between Carmichael and Holmes streets, Cummingsburg around noon.

According to reports, the women are all known to each other from the South Cummingsburg (Tiger Bay) area. They came to each other's attention as a result of a feud that started a year ago.

Kaieteur News was informed that on the day in question, Stacyann Chandra and Niketa Lewis made their way to The Bishop's High School to cast their ballots for the elections in the company of their mother, Marlyn Chandra.

While returning, the party was approached by Shavel Accra and Toshawn Giles who voted at the said

Niketa Lewis and Stacyann Chandra outside of the Georgetown Public Hospital moments before being transferred to the private hospital polling place just minutes before.

According to police, Shavel Accra allegedly assaulted Marlyn Chandra and after a heated exchange of word, the woman left with her daughters for home.

But, enraged by the confrontation, Niketa and Stacyann reportedly armed themselves with knives and returned to the scene of the argument.

The two confronted Toshawn and Shavel, both of whom were armed with a knife and cutlass respectively and a bloody fight ensued.

When Kaieteur News arrived on the scene of the incident, blood was seen splattered all across the roadway. The knives used in the altercation were still on

The knives used in the blood brawl the scene.

The four all chopped and stabbed each other resulting in each party sustaining severe injures about her body.

According to reports received, Shavel Accra

received injuries to her left hand while her cousin Toshawn Jiles received injuries to her right hand and body.

Niketa Lewis was said to have received injuries to her hands, right foot and back

while her sister Stacyann Chandra received injuries to her head and hands.

They were all rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where Toshawn and Shavel were admitted to the institution and are said to be

in critical conditions.

Niketa Lewis and Stacyann Chandra were transferred to a private city hospital and their conditions are said to be critical as well.

Investigations are ongoing.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Lindeners voted early

R

esidents of Linden, and surrounding communities in Region Ten, turned out in their numbers, to cast their ballots early yesterday morning, in what has been dubbed, one of the most crucial elections in Guyana.

Among those casting their ballots early were Minister Valerie AdamsYe a r w o o d , R e g i o n a l Chairman Rennis Morian, Mayor Wanneka Arrindel and former Mayor Carwyn Holland. Some persons were out at the polling stations as early as 04:00 hours, according to reports.

Minister AdamsYearwood said that she was very excited and elated to see the massive turnout at polling stations.

"Some of them (residents) had come out very early. As soon as the gates were open, they were literally running to get in and cast their vote," Adams Yearwood declared.

The Minister opined that this year's elections will go down as the elections with the highest voter turnout.

Rhonda Thom, a resident of Blue Berry Hill, who cast her ballot at the Christianburg/ Wismar, Secondary School (Multi),declared, "I couldn't sleep, I was so excited...I listened to gospel whole night, then got up to get ready a little after two."

Thom had voted and was returning home before 7 yesterday morning.

Selwyn Alberts, who voted at the Amelia's Ward

Primary School, on the Mackenzie shore, described the elections as, "the mother of all elections".

"I come out here since four o clock this morning, and I was the first person to vote because this election is very important -very vital!"

There were one hundred and twenty-five polling stations in Region Ten. Most saw residents voting early.

D i r e c t o r o f Communications, Devin Sears, said that there had been a smooth flow, with only minor hiccups.

Those sentiments were echoed by Derron Adams, who served in the capacity as assistant Campaign Manager, and former Mayor Carwyn Holland.

Most of the polling stations on Wismar had huge crowds turning out, but the biggest was observed at the Wisburg Secondary School.

Returning Officer, Owen De Souza... described the process as smooth. He pointed out that some persons had turned out as early as 4:30 am.

The only hiccup, he admitted, was that some young people, who had turned out to vote, were not registered.

"But on the whole, people were just anxious and excited to get this over with, and we tried our best to accommodate especially the elderly, and make them comfortable."

A We s t Wa t o o k a resident, Anita Tobin was however not so comfortable.

According to Tobin, she was told that she could not vote,

because she had not registered.

The woman said that the only reason she did not register was because she was in a remote community called Anarika during the registration period in Linden.

There were many young people, voting for the very first time. Julianna Williams was one of them. She was accompanied by both her parents.

Zanita Dainty, was also voting for the first time.

Dainty said that she was very excited to be doing so.

There were also a few mothers with babies in arms, with at least two babies, merely three months old.

Joy Anne Moore was out with her three-month old b a b y, a n d a c o u p l e , Desmond and Candacy, also had their three-month old in tow. Among those observing the electoral process was C o m m o n w e a l t h International Observer, Gitobu Imanyara.

Imanyara described the process as “very smooth, very transparent!”

He was at the time v i s i t i n g t h e Wi s b u r g Secondary School, which he noted, was the sixth polling station visited at the time.

Regional Chairman, Rennis Morian, expressed satisfaction with the elections, which he said was very smooth and incident free. Morian said that he was very pleased that Lindeners had gone out early, to exercise their Democratic right.

Former Mayor Carwyn Holland also expressed satisfaction with the voting process. He pointed out that Lindeners are a peaceful people, and as such, went out and voted peacefully.

Tuesday March 03, 2020

ExxonMobil AUV contract for underwater data gathering vehicle

A collection of AUVs. (PHOTO SOURCE: Ocean Infinity) (Rigzone.com) - Exxon Mobil Corp. has awarded subsea marine robotics firm Ocean Infinity a contract for high-resolution autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) geophysical and geotechnical data acquisition within the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, Ocean Infinity reported Friday.

“We are very pleased to be supporting ExxonMobil in Guyana with our advanced data acquisition technology, to help them identify and evaluate seabed conditions

on the Stabroek Block,” Ocean Infinity Chief Commercial Officer Paul Helmore commented in a written statement emailed to Rigzone.

Ocean Infinity stated that it will simultaneously deploy its AUVs in water depths ranging from 230 to 7,054 feet (70 to 2,150 meters) over an approximately 1,197square-mile (3,100-squarekilometer) area. The firm explained such an approach of autonomous operations at scale reflects a more sustainable way

to operate at sea.

“Our innovative use of sustainable, low-impact technology will support their development of the acreage and ultimately to meet the region's growing energy demand,” Helmore also stated regarding the ExxonMobil Guyana contract.

“This contract award is further evidence of Ocean Infinity's ability to provide pioneering, eco-friendly solutions to major players within the energy sector.”

Thousands cast ballots early in Georgetown

B

eginning in the wee hours of the m o r n i n g , thousands of residents throughout Georgetown queued to exercise their franchise through the General and Regional Elections.

In Lamaha Gardens, first-time voter, Delicia Henry, said her choice to vote was heavily influenced

by her family. “I want to see better changes, not just for me but also for my family,” Delicia declared.

Rachel John, the first voter in line at the Lions Club in Lamaha Gardens noted, “I just feel that I'm doing the right thing and it is for my children, my grandchildren and my great grand [children]. So, I'm encouraging everyone to cast

their vote.”

Commenting on the voting process, the early bird voter said, “It was fast, smooth and good. I think it will be a great day and I hope everything goes well.”

At the polling station, Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson expressed confidence in GECOM's election process adding that all eligible persons should take advantage of the voting period.

“Guyana has so many opportunities and so many ways to grow. If you're interested in your country, in the way it will be led for the next five or 10 years, you should exercise your vote so that you can have a say,” the Minister emphasised.

Over at South Ruimveldt Secondary School, voter Gordon Gilhuys, 66, who made it to the polls before 6am said that the process was stress-free. “Coming and exercise your franchise will determine your future and the future of Guyana,” Gilhuys asserted.

Proudly showing her inked finger after casting her ballot at the same polling station was June Leitch. “I (continued on page 19)

Tuesday March 03, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday March 03, 2020

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 03, 2020

Persons frequently smoke at the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts

V

ery often persons can be seen smoking at the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts, even though smoking is prohibited in public places. There have been countless complaints since the cigarettes not only affect the smoker but those around.

During court breaks, these persons can be seen on the steps or on the lower flat of the building with a cloud of smoke over their head. A woman shared with Kaieteur News that every time she attends her son's trial, there is always a man that would be under the steps, smoking.

“He is one of those court 'touts' that does want be in your face and them stink a cigarette…One time, I confronted one of them about the smoking because I had my grandchild around and he tell me how I must move.”

A few reporters were interviewed since they work

at the court on weekdays and for several hours per day.

They shared that the persons who are smoking don't consider the health of those around them and that it seems as if they are above the law since they smoke openly in front of police officers.

At the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts, there are no signs that show that that is a smoke free zone.

When asked to comment on the matter at hand, police officers stationed at the location refused to comment.

Persons are pleading with the relevant authorities to look into the issue so that these smokers can desist from doing so in a public place.

According to the Tobacco Control Act, “The implementation of tobacco control policies in accordance with the World Health Organisation Framework Convention on

Tobacco Control aims to protect present and future generations from the devastating harm of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke; to prevent tobacco use by minors.”

“To protect workers and the public from exposure to tobacco smoke, to prevent exposure of the public especially minors, to tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship: to enhance public awareness of the hazards of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke; to ensure that every person is provided with effective health warnings about the harms of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke; to regulate the tobacco industry.”

“Its products and sales, to protect public health policies from the commercial and other vested interest of the tobacco industry; and to provide for other related matters.”

Card game turns deadly, labourer knifed to death

A

card game among friends reportedly ended on a bloody note after a labourer was left dead with several stab wounds about his body.

The dead man was identified as 29-year-old Aubrey Prince, of Princes Street, Lodge, Georgetown.

His bloodied corpse was found yesterday morning dumped in the vicinity of M a n d e l a Av e n u e a n d Princes Street, Georgetown.

According to police reports, Prince and three friends were engaged in a

game of chance between 00:10h and 03:00h on Monday.

A heated argument then ensued among the friends leading to a confrontation.

This led to the men ending their card game and leaving for home.

But, according to reports, Prince did not return home.

His reputed wife explained to police that she learnt of the fight and went in search of her husband.

Meanwhile, persons traversing the area stumbled upon the man's body and

raised an alarm.

Prince was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Regional Commander Assistant Police C o m m i s s i o n e r, E d g a r Thomas, told Kaieteur News that they are pursuing every possible angle in the investigations.

Not wanting to disclose many details, Thomas stated that persons are being questioned but no arrests have been made.

Investigations into the matter are still ongoing.

Thousands cast ballots early in Georgetown From page 14 am so happy to see that we Guyanese are doing the right thing […] More people came out and I am happy to know that we're going on the right path.”

Alongside June was Ann Prince, 53, who maintained voting is a constitutional right every eligible voter should exercise.

“They have a right to choose who they want, not people choose for them.”

At the East Ruimveldt Community Centre, families descended upon the polling station in the early hours of the morning. Ashton Agard, 71, and Debra Hopkinson, 57, departed the polling station with their fingers held high, displaying the confirmation of their vote.

Ashton Agard disclosed he was

delighted to have voted for the APNUAFC ticket led by President David Granger.

Meanwhile, senior citizen Linda Thompson who was seen leaving the polling station on her bicycle explained she was among the early set of voters because she was excited to cast her ballot.

“I was here minutes to six because we want decency,” Linda commented.

This publication also visited the Sophia Primary School, where electors, wrapped around the yard of the building, were delighted to have voted.

Two sisters, Faustina and Annie Barry, said their decision hinged on their desire to see the continuous development of the country.

PAGE 19

Family of stabbed Linden girl moves into new home through charitable gesture

Dexton Copeland in the company of Maynard Williams, father of the injured student, and Nichelle Fable, mother of the student accused of stabbing, stand outside the new home.

A

lthough there were some hiccups, much needed support has been forthcoming to the family of stabbed Linden schoolgirl, Shashamani Williams.

The most recent bout of support came compliments of the Chief Executive Officer (ag) of the National Investment and Commercial Investment Limited (NICIL), Mr. Colvin Heath-London.

Speaking of this development recently was founder of the Linden Youth Vision, Dexton Copeland.

His organisation was among a group of other organisations that join forces annually to pull off a project called Hands of Change.

Copeland's organisation was the primary organisation spearheading the project – the completion of a threebedroom house for the Williams' family. The family was able to move into the h o m e l a s t T h u r s d a y, Copeland said.

He however revealed that while planning the project was not easy, there were

some prevailing challenges.

This, he said, translated to some persons, who gave a commitment to give support towards the construction of the house, failing to do so.

This had stalled the completion of the project.

But according to Copeland, his organisation was advised to reach out to NICIL for help to meet the shortfall.

According to him, NICIL's CEO immediately agreed to provide the needed support.

“What I can tell you is that his financial support is very significant as it helped us to go a very long way. We were seeking to complete this home in a timely fashion so that the young lady and her family could be in a much more comfortable home,” he said.

Following her discharge from hospital and before the completion of the house, the Williams's family was housed at a hotel in Linden, Copeland said.

“We understand the challenges and the fact that

we wanted to bring her to a better environment with her parents and other siblings, so we were working very hard to complete it and at a very high standard,” Copeland added.

Several other persons had also thrown their support behind the project and, according to Copeland, their support helped to ensure that the spirit of giving back and volunteerism is reinforced in the community.

According to Copeland, too, the parents of the female student accused of harming Williams have expressed heartfelt apologies and have also committed to offer some form of compensation to the injured girl.

Copeland revealed that the assistance that has been received from Heath-London in his personal capacity went towards the completion of the ceiling, roof, and doors.

He said, too, that the NICIL CEO also committed to providing further assistance directly and indirectly that can aid the recovery of the injured young woman.

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 03, 2020

PAGE 21

Young and old cast ballots on E-Day in Region Six H Persons ensuring their names are on the list to vote

undreds of Berbicians, among them many first time voters, disabled persons, the elderly and party members for the People's Progressive Party/Civic, APNU+AFC, FED-UP along with regional officials turned up at their respective polling places to cast their votes for the political party of their choice.

While many reported that the process of voting was smooth, some opined that it was slow with minor hiccups.

Despite the few alleged setbacks in the region as it relates to persons turning up to vote at the polling stations only to be turned back because their names were not found on the list, Election's Day in Berbice up until press time was relatively smooth and quiet.

By around 15:00 hrs, many of the persons had already cast their ballots and went back to their homes.

Foreign and local observers were visible at the all the polling stations throughout District Six. Party representatives were also strategically placed in subdivisions throughout the region checking the list to ensure that the voters' names were on it and providing persons with assistance.

Regional Chairman, David Armogan, who had to vote at the Viola Nursery School polling place with his family, cast his ballot confidently just around 8:00 am.

He noted that the process was “pretty smooth”.

Armogan said he visited

polling stations throughout Berbice and had positive reports thus far. He added, “There were long lines at places like Canje and New Amsterdam.

This is a good sign that people are willing to exercise their franchise”. He mentioned that the only complaint he had during his visits was the slow process.

Prime Minister Representative for the Region, Gobin Harbhajan, also expressed pleasure in the voting process when he turned up to vote at his polling station early.

He said that he was out visiting polling stations from as early as 5:30 am. He said he observed persons trickling out their homes very early and waiting at the locations until polls opened at 6:00 am to vote.

He added that based on what he saw for most of the day, young voters were making the effort to cast their votes.

Opposition party e x e c u t i v e D r. L e s l i e Ramasamy who was in Berbice visiting cluster offices, disclosed that he voted in Georgetown but in Berbice persons were reporting that they turned up to polling places and were turned away because their names were not on the list.

“There were some people that showed up in the Port Mourant cluster to vote, their names were on the GECOM website and it indicated where their polling stations were but when they showed up at that polling station, their names are not on the hard copy that the presiding officers have.

First time voters in Lancaster, Corentyne

“Those are among the few [which] we have experienced throughout the coast, but we are making representation to the Returning Officer to have the issue sorted out if possible,” he said.

Returning Officer for Region Six Savitri Mangar confirmed that there has been smooth voting in the region and although there are reports of persons' names not being on the list, she has not been made aware of such instances.

“There are a lot of rumours out there that are actually not true. I would have received calls from persons saying that our stamps are not working and so on but when I visited the polling stations myself, everything is perfectly fine.

Everything so far has been quite fair and smooth,” Mangar explained.

Meanwhile, a visit to several polling stations in

New Amsterdam, East Bank Berbice, East Canje and the Corentyne saw major turnouts of young voters who expressed their

eagerness to vote.

There were also disabled persons and the elderly making their way to the polls (continued on page 22)

PAGE 22

Tuesday March 03, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Guyanese at home and abroad have invested some US$600M in projects in the past year according to official National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) records.

“There are more and more Guyanese living in Guyana and abroad who have expressed interest in doing business here.

“With the increased interests being shown by foreigners more Guyanese are seeking to be part of what Guyana has to offer presently,” acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Colvin Heath-London disclosed in an interview Saturday.

Heath-London attributed the swell in investments recently to “the continued faith and confidence” in the government's vision by Guyanese and foreign investors.

He said the government's holding company has approved 13 projects put forward by Guyanese in the past year. These will create some 3,800 temporary and 1,400 permanent jobs in the construction, hospitality, health and other sectors.

“This is the level of development that will certainly push a country forward, positively, and as such, create jobs among other numerous benefits for the citizens,” HeathLondon said.

He said, “Guyanese at home and abroad have recognised that a number of foreigners are continuing to show significant interest in this country and like any intelligent businessman and woman, they firmly believe that they too can play an important role.”

Heath-London believes that the recent flood of investment interest in Guyana is “just the tip” of the proverbial iceberg.

Navigant Builders Inc. the company behind the Windsor Estate Developers is plugging a further US$83M into fresh projects in Guyana. In addition, another local project, the CORUM Group is throwing US$20M into their scheme, which involves a 150-room Holiday Inn Hotel, Retail Development, office Building and a Mall Outlet.

W&T George and Company Ltd is pursuing a US$50M initiative on a 20-acre

plot, which includes building townhouses, upscale singlefamily units and a shopping mall, creating a community of wellness.

Heath-London said, too, that a team of local doctors is behind a US$20M plan under the name Cardiology Services Inc. to provide a state-of-theart health care facility for cardiology and neurology patients with supporting services.

Ava Management and Consultancy Services will plug US$15.2M into a hotel and residential town houses; Adamantium Holdings will build four-apartment condominiums to the tune of some US$20M. Premier Sales and Services and Elysium Investment will also invest a similar amount, the former to build a two-storey stacked townhouse and mid-rise condominiums while the latter would be constructing a total of seven high-end condominiums over the next five years at Ogle on the East Coast corridor.

“These are just some of the major projects that will be executed during 2020,” HeathLondon said.

Young and old cast ballots on E-Day...

From page 11 on wheelchairs and with the assistance of family members.

Rafi Clement, 69, of Ankerville, Port Mourant, was making his way out of the polling station in his wheelchair when this publication caught up with him. He said that it was “smooth and peaceful”. Clement stated that the polling staff assisted him in voting, but it has been like that for him for the past three General and Regional Elections.

“Since my accident, I have been voting like this but over time, I complained about having arrangements in place for disabled voters like myself, like wheelchair ramps and so forth.

“But I was excited to vote today to give my party of choice another chance. It's a democratic process; we should all take part rather than sit idly and then later want to complain,” he said.

A first-time voter, Dexter Joseph, 22, explained that the process was “very fast and nice”.

He added that he decided to vote because he wanted to see more progress in the country and noted that he cast his ballot at the Limlair polling

station with persons turning up early.

Another first-time voter, Ryan Caesar, 21, said the process was “joyful going out to vote for President Granger.”

He pointed out that it was “a very good experience” while noting that he voted at Manchester.

In Black Bush Polder, a couple who voted just around 11:00 hours told reporters that they voted for development in their community since “there is no new development for the

longest while in Black Bush Polder”.

They were hopeful that the party of their choice would be deemed the winner at this General and Regional Elections.

Up until 17:00 hrs, there was a report from elections officials in the region that there was over 80% voter turnout among the 378 polling stations.

Ninety-nine thousand one hundred and thirty-two (99,132) were expected to cast their ballots.

International observer missions report smooth flow of ...

From page 8 complete picture before we make a judgment.”

Carter explained that the centre is operating separately in an effort for them to cover more ground.

“This is one of the most important aspects of international observers and domestic Guyanese observers are just to ensure that there is transparency. And as you know, the political parties have coverage at least some of them have coverage throughout the country as

well so this is a much observed election in almost every corner of Guyana.”

The other two observer missions, the OAS and the EU, shared the same sentiments as the two missions, and with over 100 team members, the missions assure that they will see transparent, credible and fair election processes.

The teams will be releasing their preliminary results to their unions and to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) before the election results are announced.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 03, 2020

PAGE 23

Elections morning peaceful in Cinderella County

T

here's usually that atmosphere of great excitement and anxiety during Guyana's elections. During yesterday, however, persons appeared to have been even more determined than ever before to cast their votes.

Despite light showers in the morning, persons were already lined up in front of their designated polling places, anxious to cast their votes.

At the Richmond Nursery School, which is located within Anna Regina, there were some 30 persons already lined up before the polls opened at 06:00 am.

Within Region Two, there were 104 polling stations, most of which are located at Government buildings. In the Pomeroon, there are rarely Government buildings.

In an effort to facilitate polling day within that riverine community, GECOM designated a number of

Voters at Sparta, Essequibo churches within the Pomeroon, as polling places.

Earlier in the day, there were

great numbers of voters who turned out to the various polling places. As the day progressed, however, the

crowds dwindled, while the day remained peaceful and conflict free. Based on observations, it can

be concluded that more persons exercised their right to vote at this election, as compared to 2015.

It was a grand day!

From page 8 at a polling place in Ruimveldt, Georgetown but this was also quickly resolved.

Public Security Minister and prime ministerial hopeful, Khemraj Ramjattan, assured Guyanese that the Guyana Police Force is ready and fully equipped to address security concerns as they come to light.

He made these comments moments before casting his ballot with his wife and other family members at the Rama Krishna Primary School in Kitty. Ramjattan told reporters that strong systems are in place to ensure that Election Day 2020 concludes safely.

In addition to Ramjattan and his family, Kaieteur News also photographed other candidates

voting, including Presidential candidates David Granger, Irfaan Ali, Rhonda Lam-Singh and Lenox Shuman and Prime Ministerial candidate Mark Phillips.

Kaieteur News visited the close of polls around Georgetown and it turned out that people really did come out in their numbers early on.

There were no reports of lines built up at 18:00 hours when polls

closed.

At the final press conference for the day last night, the Chair said, “It was indeed a grand day.

It was a day all of Guyana was looking forward to… I am very pleased today.”

Singh urged that the media in their reports on the matter do not sensationalise any of their stories.

“We're in a charged atmosphere

so we have to be careful how we go about spreading stories. We must always verify our stories before we publish them… These things can escalate into mistrust, and even violence.”

True to the Chairperson's words, there were many reports of irregularities occurring during the electoral process; many were not supported by evidence.

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Tuesday March 03, 2020

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Tuesday March 03, 2020

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Kaieteur News

Siamand Rahman: Two-time Paralympic powerlifting champion dies aged 31

Siamand Rahman won powerlifting gold medals at both London 2012 and Rio 2016. (GettyImages)

Tuesday March 03, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Yo u r h e a l t h h a s b e e n glowing over the past few weeks, but today you're likely to feel a little under the weather. This is probably due to nothing more exotic than stress.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Attempts to master a new computer program or other form of high-tech equipment could seem to be going nowhere, Libra. You might tend to doubt your ability and thus feel very frustrated.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You might have planned an exciting evening with friends or your current love interest, but you have to postpone it due to forces beyond your control.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) The rapid level of growth that you've probably been experiencing could suddenly prove too much for you today, Scorpio.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Upsetting events in the neighborhood might have family members in a funk.

This could be something major like construction crews tearing up the streets.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Today you might hear a rather distressing rumor about one or more people you know or perhaps about your working situation.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Personal or professional projects you've been working on might be moving a bit more slowly than you're comfortable with today, Leo. You may wonder if this is because you aren't doing something right.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Today you might feel stifled by your current situation.

Perhaps you're thinking of changing jobs or professions, or maybe you're considering moving to a more exotic place.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) The energy that has propelled you forward for the past several weeks might seem to lag a bit today, causing you momentary panic that your progress won't continue.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Today you might experience a slight (and very temporary) dark night of the soul, Capricorn. You could take a long look at your life and, even though you're doing well, still feel that you aren't yet where you want to be.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) A group with which you're affiliated could be excited about a course of action that you might not feel is wise now, Aquarius.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Plans for getting together with friends or a romantic partner might have to be postponed because of professional responsibilities that need attention. This could prove upsetting.

BBCsport - Two-time Paralympic champion Siamand Rahman has died at the age of 31 after a suspected heart attack. The Iranian powerlifter won gold medals at both London 2012 and in Rio in 2016.

In Rio, he became the first ever Paralympian to lift more than 300kg and his bench press record of 310kg still stands in the over-107kg c a t e g o r y. “ T h e w h o l e Paralympic movement is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Siamand Rahman,” said IPC president Andrew Parsons.

“Siamand was a pioneer for his sport, an inspiration for many in his home country, Iran, and around the world, and a fantastic ambassador for the Paralympic movement. “He was also a wonderful human being, a gentle giant and one of the friendliest people you could ever meet.”

Rahman set new world records nine times between 2014 and 2016, as well as winning the world title in Dubai in 2014. He won two more world titles in 2017 and 2019, while his performance at the Rio Paralympics, when he lifted 75kg more than his nearest rival, saw him named best male at the Paralympic Sports Awards that year.

Rahman had been targeting a third Paralympic gold in Tokyo and had promised to try to break his current record in the process.

NBA roundup: LeBron...

From page 26 second quarter with an ankle injury. He finished with nine points.

Washington Wizards 124 - Golden State Warriors 110 - Bradley Beal broke the franchise record for consecutive 25-point games with his 18th straight, a gamehigh 34-point performance that lifted Washington over host Golden State in San Francisco.

Beal shot 10 for 24 from the field and 7 for 9 on 3pointers for the Wizards, who are 1-1 on a four-game Western swing. He broke Walt Bellamy’s record of 17 games, set in 1962, and also had a team-high eight assists and five steals in 35 minutes.

Andrew Wiggins had a team-high 27 points for the Warriors, who were seeking their first winning streak since the last time they saw — and beat — the Wizards on Feb. 3 in Washington.

South Africa beat Pakistan...

From page 27 captain Dane van Niekerk played a terrible drive onto her stumps and Mignon du Preez was bowled trying to reverse sweep.

Wolvaardt, in her first innings of the tournament, got to grips with the slow pitch before accelerating in the final five overs. She hit eight fours - almost all of them coming through sumptuous cover drives and reached her halfcentury off the final ball of the innings with yet another boundary.

South Africa’s big hitters were becalmed by the surface, but they also came up against an improved Pakistan fielding side. They dropped several catches against England but Aliya took one of the best catches of the tournament, diving forward at long-on to dismiss the dangerous Chloe Tryon in the final over.

Pakistan crawled to 22-2 at the end of the powerplay, having lost Umaima Sohail to a comical run-out that left her stranded mid-pitch.

Javeria Khan, captaining the side after Bismah Mahroof broke her thumb, was also unfortunate to be dismissed, with Tryon getting a finger onto the ball in her followthrough to run her out at the non-striker’s end.

While there were cameos, such as Aliya launching Shabnim Ismail back down the ground for a glorious six, it always felt as though South Africa were in control.

Their substitute fielders ran onto the field to congratulate the jubilant skipper Van Niekerk as they celebrated reaching the final four.

The only concern for South Africa will be Marizanne Kapp. While the all-rounder, who missed the game against Thailand, batted at three, she did not take the field for Pakistan’s innings.

Scores: South Africa 136-6 (20 overs): Wolvaardt 53*, Kapp 31, Diana 2-19.

Pakistan 119-5 (20 overs): Aliya 39*, Javeria 31. South Africa won by 17 runs.

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Tuesday March 03, 2020

Kaieteur News

The IFAB agrees to implement substitution trials to address concussion incidents The International Football Association Board (The IFAB) at its 134th Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in Belfast, Northern Ireland agreed to draw up protocols to be used in trials for substitutions in cases of concussion.

Following feedback from the recent meeting of the Concussion Expert Group (CEG), The IFAB also agreed that more research data is required before proposing possible changes to the Laws of the Game.

FIFA indicated a strong interest in having trials at the Men’s and Women’s Olympic Games football tournament in July 2020, with other competitions also being able to take part in the trials.

The AGM agreed to consultation with all the relevant stakeholders, including The IFAB Technical Advisory Panel

(TAP) and the Football Advisory Panel (FAP), to review the offside Law to foster the spirit of attacking play.

The IFAB will continue to look at measures within the Laws of the Game to tackle mobbing of match officials and confrontations between players which should have no place in the game.

Members were updated on the use of video assistant referees (VARs) around the world, highlighting the success of this innovation, while also considering future developments, including improving communication and potential technological advances.

The meeting also agreed on the importance of finding solutions to allow competitions with restricted budgets to be able to access and use VARs, with such solutions being led by the

working group for innovation excellence that has been established by FIFA.The AGM reviewed the changes to the 2019/20 Laws of the Game and noted their positive impact on the way the game is played and the image of the game. The AGM also approved clarifications to several existing Laws to the 2020/21 Laws of the Game.

These changes relate to Law 10 (yellow cards are not carried forward into kicks from the penalty mark), Law 12 (handball, to differentiate more clearly between the arm and shoulder) and other clarifications.

The meeting was chaired by the president of the Irish FA, David Martin, and was attended by representatives from FIFA, led by the FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, the FA, the FA of Wales, Scottish FA and The IFAB’s administration.

Mayweather offers to train Wilder to help him beat Fury in their summer trilogy fight Mailonline - Floyd Mayweather is confident Deontay Wilder will exact revenge on Tyson Fury - if the Bronze Bomber lets his fellow American train him for the trilogy fight.

Wilder’s camp confirmed on Sunday that they have activated a rematch clause in his contract following the defeat by heavyweight rival Fury in seven rounds in Las Vegas.

And Mayweather, who had an incredible unbeaten record of 50-0 during his remarkable boxing career, believes he can provide Wilder with the wisdom to finally beat Fury after they had initially drawn first time out.

‘If I train him I can teach him how to win,’ said Mayweather when asked if Wilder can eventually overpower Fury. If Mayweather was to team up with Wilder for the trilogy, the boxing great would for sure teach his compatriot how to defend and how to throw his shots with pinpoint accuracy after his skillset came into question against Fury.

Fury dominated Wilder throughout the

fight in Las Vegas, eventually stopping his opponent in the seventh round after the Bronze Bomber twice hit the canvas. And following the defeat, Mayweather took straight to Instagram to console his compatriot.

Mayweather wrote: ‘Win, Lose or Draw....

Deontay is our brother that has accomplished many triumphs and as a community we should all uplift and support him throughout it all.

‘No matter what, you’re still a winner in my eyes, King!’

After Wilder activated the rematch clause, Fury’s US promoter Bob Arum told BoxingScene.com on Sunday the trilogy fight is provisionally slated for July 18 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Arum said: ‘Wilder and his representatives formally notified us last night that they have accepted the rematch and are going forward.

‘It’s going to happen in the summer, before the Olympics. Middle of July.’

Tyson Fury outclassed heavyweight rival Deontay Wilder in Las Vegas to win in seven rounds.

NBA roundup: LeBron, Lakers outlast Zion, Pels

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) shoots over New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) during the fourth quarter at the Smoothie King Center. Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports Field Level Media LeBron James had a tripledouble as the visiting Los Angeles Lakers overcame the absence of All-Star forward Anthony Davis and defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 122114 on Sunday night.

Davis, who averaged 36 points as the Lakers won the first three meetings with his former team, sat out because of knee soreness one night after a 105-88 loss at Memphis in which L.A. had a seasonlow point total.

James, who had 40 points in a 118-109 home victory against the Pelicans on Tuesday, finished with 34 points, 13 assists and 12 rebounds. Kyle Kuzma added 20 points, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope scored 13, and Danny Green, Avery Bradley and Markieff Morris had 10 each.

Rookie Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with a careerhigh 35 points, marking his 11th consecutive game with 20-plus points. Lonzo Ball scored 19, Brandon Ingram had 15 on 5-of-23 shooting, Derrick Favors had 12 points and 14 rebounds, Jrue Holiday scored 11 and Nicolo Melli added 10.

Los Angeles Clippers 136 - Philadelphia 76ers 130 - Kawhi Leonard scored 30 points, and Los Angeles rallied for a victory over visiting Philadelphia. Paul George, Montrezl Harrell and Lou Williams each scored 24 points for the Clippers, who won their fourth in a row. Williams also had eight assists, while Harrell pulled down nine rebounds. Reggie Jackson added 13 points.

Shake Milton scored a career-high 39 points by making 7 of 9 3-pointers

and 14 of 20 shots from the floor for the Sixers, who dropped their eighth straight on the road. Former Clipper Tobias Harris contributed 25 points, while Alec Burks added 15 points. The Sixers lost starting guard Josh Richardson early in the second quarter to a concussion after initially terming the injury a nose contusion.

Milwaukee Bucks 93 Charlotte Hornets 85 Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 41 points to go with 20 rebounds as Milwaukee defeated host Charlotte.

Antetokounmpo sank 17 of 28 shots and added a team-high six assists and 18 rebounds.

Brook Lopez added 16 points, and George Hill had 11 for the Bucks, who won their sixth straight.

Devonte’ Graham’s 17 points paced the Hornets, who had a two-game winning streak snapped. Terry Rozier had 13 points, P.J. Washington scored 12, Cody Martin had 11 and Willy Hernangomez added 10 points and 13 rebounds.

Denver Nuggets 133 Toronto Raptors 118 - Nikola Jokic had 23 points, 18 rebounds and 11 assists, Jamal Murray used a hot start to finish with 22 points, and host Denver beat Toronto.

Torrey Craig had a seasonhigh 17 points off the bench, Jerami Grant scored 16 and Gary Harris finished with 15 for the Nuggets, who had eight players score in double figures.

OG Anunoby had a careerhigh 32 points, Norman Powell scored 24, Kyle Lowry added 17 and Pascal Siakam finished with 16 for Toronto.

The Raptors have lost three straight for the first time in

nearly three months.

Dallas Mavericks 111 Minnesota Timberwolves 91 - Kristaps Porzingis scored 38 points, Seth Curry added 27 points, and Dallas beat Minnesota at Minneapolis.

The Mavericks played without All-Star Luka Doncic, who wore a splint on his thumb in a loss Friday at Miami. Doncic injured the thumb on Feb. 26 against San Antonio. Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 19 points, and Dorian Finney-Smith grabbed 11 rebounds for the Mavericks.

D’Angelo Russell led the Timberwolves with 16 points and flirted with a tripledouble, registering nine rebounds and seven assists.

Russell led four Timberwolves in double figures scoring, with Malik Beasley adding 14 points, Juan Hernangomez hitting for 12 points, and Jarrett Culver adding another 12 off the bench.

Sacramento Kings 106 Detroit Pistons 100 De’Aaron Fox had 23 points and seven assists as Sacramento won for the fifth time in six games by downing visiting Detroit. Buddy Hield supplied 19 points and six rebounds, and Bogdan Bogdanovic had 15 points for the Kings.

Harry Giles contributed 12 points and seven rebounds, Harrison Barnes had 10 points and Alex Len powered for eight points, 13 rebounds and five blocks.

Christian Wood led the Pistons, who have lost eight of their past nine games, with 20 points and 12 rebounds.

Brandon Knight had 16 points and seven assists.

Detroit point guard Derrick Rose left the game in the (Continued on page 25)

Tuesday March 03, 2020

Aston Villa warned new boy Samatta could soon leave for greener pastures by coach who gave him international debut

Mbwana Samatta

Márcio Máximo - GFF SMNT Head Coach The Sun - Aston Villa should make the most of new boy Mbwana Samatta — for the man dubbed Samuel Eto’o Mk II might not be staying in the Midlands for too long.

Not because he is struggling to settle, nor because he cannot handle the unique demands of the Premier League.

Simply because he is such a talent that, even at the age of 27, football’s genuine big guns will soon be moving heaven and earth to tempt him from Villa Park. Four games in, and the Tanzanian is already well on the way to becoming a cult figure for Villa fans.

Help his side to the unthinkable today — a Carabao Cup final win over Manchester City at Wembley — and he will be a legend little more than a month after arriving. While he is something of an unknown to most of English football, one man knows him better than most.

Brazilian coach Marcio Maximo is the man who gave

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Kaieteur News

Samatta his international debut as a teenager and never doubted he could eventually cut it right at the very top level. At the time he was still a young hopeful with his local side African Lyon in Dar es Salaam, and newly-appointed Tanzanian boss Maximo was scouting players.

He said: “They played a side called Young Africans and expected to lose but Mbwana tortured their defence and they drew 2-2.

“He scored both their goals, they couldn’t handle him at all, and I called him into the national team straight away — and now he’s captain.”

Maximo continued: “Sometimes young players struggle with fear at first but Samatta was total opposite.

He was a hungry lion. “He’s a striker but not a target man, whose pace is lethal. In my opinion he’s very similar to the Eto’o who was playing at Barcelona under Pep Guardiola.

“He would use his pace to destroy teams in the space between midfield and defence. Mbwana is a carbon copy of him. The perfect false No9. “Every move he’s made has been a step up and he’s not finished yet. I have no

doubts he will be a massive success in the Premier League but I don’t think he will be at Villa for long.

“I believe he has one even bigger move left — and I am sure he would fit in at Liverpool, Manchester United, City, Real Madrid or Barcelona... he really is THAT good.” Maximo, 57, is not a man to get carried away too easily, either. As Brazil Under17 boss he gave Ronaldo his first taste of international football.

He remains close pals with legends like Dunga and Ze Roberto, and also had a brief spell working in Scotland at Livingston. Now national boss of Guyana, he would love to follow Samatta to England and have a crack at coaching in the Premier League. He added: “I am very proud to have helped change his life when I was Tanzania coach and I am sure Mbwana knows the impact he has made in his own country by moving to England.

“He’s a hero to so many African players and it is great to have been able to set him on the way. “It would be great if our paths crossed again because I’d love to work with an English club myself.”

Pollard bemoans inconsistency following series whitewash Kandy, Sri Lanka, CMC – Captain Kieron Pollard has praised West Indies’ efforts despite losing the final OneDay International here Sunday and suffering another embarrassing series whitewash to Sri Lanka, but says consistency needs to become key to his side’s approach.

Bidding to avoid a clean sweep after losing the first two matches in Colombo and Hambantota, West Indies failed to chase down a challenging 308 here and slipped to a six-run loss in a dramatic finish at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.

They needed 13 runs from the final over and Fabian Allen, who struck a cameo 15ball 37, hit a boundary off the first ball but perished off the very next delivery, leaving the run chase to fizzle out.

“You’re always disappointed when you lose a cricket game but when you look at it, cricket is a game of its and bits and we fell short a little bit in terms of in the field – we should have restricted them to 280, 290 and it would have been a different chase,” Pollard said afterwards.

“Having said that, the way the guys went out to chase this total even though it was 300-plus was a good effort from each and every batsman.

“They went in there and showed that sort of intent and my question would always be: why can’t we do that from the start? [The game] is a blueprint for us but again, I’m very disappointed to lose 30.”

Sri Lanka got halfcenturies from Kusal Mendis (55) and Dhananjaya de Silva (51) after captain and opener

Women’s T20 World Cup

South Africa beat Pakistan to reach semi-finals South Africa eased into the Women’s T20 World Cup semi-finals with a 17run victory over Pakistan in Sydney. Laura Wolvaardt’s unbeaten 53 from 36 balls helped South Africa post 136-6 from their 20 overs on a sluggish Showground pitch.

Pakistan limped to 119-5 in response, with Aliya Riaz making an entertaining 39 not out from 32 balls, but it was ultimately an easy victory for the Proteas. It is only the second time that South Africa have reached the semi-finals in seven editions of the tournament.

India were the only other

previous team to have secured their place in the knockout stages after winning all four of their Group A matches. Had South Africa lost, it would have thrown Group B wide open - and could have made England’s route to the semi-finals that little bit harder - but ultimately England joined them in the last four after beating West Indies by 46 runs in the later game.

The semi-final line-up will be completed by the winners of Monday’s game between Australia and New Zealand in Melbourne.

At 54-3, the Proteas were struggling. Lizelle Lee, who

Laura Wolvaardt in action on Sunday. AFP. made a century in their last game, nicked the excellent

Diana Baig behind, before (Continued on page 25)

Kieron Pollard Dimuth Karunaratne and Kusal Perera and both scored 44 to provide a pleasant start to the innings.

Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph snatched four wickets but conceded 65 runs from his 10 overs while pace bowler Jason Holder picked up two wickets but was also guilty of being expensive, leaking 68 runs from his full complement.

Pollard said the Windies attack had lacked consistency throughout and needed to continue addressing this area of their game. “I think you have to be consistent. Even though you take pace off the ball, you still have to hit that kind of area as well on a consistent basis,” he explained.

“And I think we’ve been kind of inconsistent as a bowling lineup in terms of the guys not setting up the over in the way we want guys to play. That has haunted us for a bit, we spoke about it but these things happen.”

The series defeat was the second straight one for the Windies on Sri Lankan soil after Holder’s side suffered an identical fate five years ago, and it left the Caribbean side still without a series win in the Asian nation.

However, Pollard said it was important to now turn the page and focus on the two-match Twenty20 International series starting on Wednesday. “[The ODI series] is done and dusted but what I can say is that we look forward to the T20 format,” he said.

“We have a couple guys that have come back into the team, guys who’ve been around the world playing T20 cricket [but] now they’re back in the maroon. “It’s very exciting for us.

Hopefully we can come out and show that type of intent and determination and try to leave Sri Lanka with something.”

Georgia Wareham stars as Australia overcome Ellyse Perry injury to clinch semi-final spot ESPNcricinfo - Australia suffered a grievous blow to their chances of lifting the T20 World Cup even as they survived a virtual elimination final against New Zealand, as Ellyse Perry limped from the Junction Oval with what appeared to be a serious hamstring injury.

With the semi-finals slated for Thursday in Sydney and the final at the MCG on Sunday, Perry has next to no time to recover, after already battling shoulder and hip complaints during the early part of the tournament. The worries around Perry detracted from what was otherwise a sturdy display to squeeze out New Zealand, as the hosts put together a sensible innings after being sent in by Sophie Devine, and then defended the target stoutly either side of Perry’s injury.

The pivotal spell was delivered by the wrist spinner Georgia Wareham, who defeated both Devine and Suzie Bates while also

Georgia Wareham celebrates after a successful review.

(Getty Images) plucking out Maddy Green in a performance that suggested she may have been given a bowling berth earlier in the tournament.

Wareham’s success also left the Australian selectors pondering whether, should Perry be replaced, they opt for more wrist spin in the squad, having already called in Molly Strano to replace Tayla Vlaeminck on tournament eve.

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Tuesday March 03, 2020

Kaieteur News

GMR&SC’s Dexterity event set FC Basin maul new comers for March 14 RFA Champions League/North Rupununi Leg

Spartans FC in female clash; male matches end in draws GMR&SC’s Dexterity event set for March 14th at National Stadium.

Kelvin John and Ralfton Jacobus - FC Basin The second round of the Rupununi Football Association (RFA) Champions League / North Rupununi leg commenced with a bang at the Aranaputa Sports Ground on the weekend with FC Basin trouncing debutants Spartans FC from the village of Yakarinta.

The Spartans ladies were no match for FC Basin in the first half of the game conceding a total of seven (7) goals but made good progress in the second half as they only let in two more to lose 9-0.

Leading FC Basin was Murisa Vanlong with a first half hat-trick in the 5th, 20th and 27th minute which gave the home fans reason to celebrate.

Moving the ball around in set pieces resulted in FC Basin Teshanna Stephens in the 32nd minute throwing a shot from the right wing which went over the head of the Spartan goalkeeper and into the back of the net.

Moving with confidence and under the hot midday sun, the FC Basin ladies continued to put the ball into the back of the net with a double from skillful striker Pearl Jacobus in the 35th and 36th minute much to the dismay of the Spartans ladies who also had a few goal scoring chances but didn’t

capitalise. Nippy striker Shian Stephens ended the first half with a 41st minute goal.

With a change of keeper and strategy discussed during the break Spartans FC seemed to have found their wit and fighting spirit but still could not shut out FC Basin as nippy striker Shian Stephens continued with a double in the 46th and 73rd minute giving her a hat-trick to seal the game.

As fans started to fill the pavilions the second match of the day, a male affair between Spartans FC and Wowetta Thunderbolt FC ended 2-2 in sweltering conditions.

Wowetta Thunderbolt’s Kerry Alexander rocked the back of the nets in the 5th minute.

Spartans rebounded with a superb header from Nilton Benjamin in the 7th minute from a corner kick was taken from the left hand side of the goal. Spartans, having gained in confidence and showing speed and stamina, took the lead when midfielder Garfield Merriman dribbled two Wowetta Thunderbolt players to unleash a right foot shot that scored in the 33rd minute.

However, Thunderbolt fans became thunderous one minute after when Zachree Fancis, one minute later sent a right foot volley which beat the Spartans goalie.

The second half of the game saw both teams creating near chances but neither were able to convert any.

The feature match, between FC Basin and the newly registered, Falcons FC was a rigorous and intensely contested affair from start to end with both teams sharing the spoils as it ended 2-2.

Falcons’ midfielder Owen George sent them ahead in the 9th minute looping the ball high over the head of the FC Basin keeper.

But FC Basin Nappy Striker Kelvin John in the 30th minute shot one into the back of the Falcons net for the equaliser.

Seven minutes later, Falcons’ Almeir Moses received a through ball, shook off two Basin players before sending a low ball past the keeper in the 37th minute to retake the lead. Both teams showed maturity and skill throughout the second half which was very physical, six yellow cards being issued.

FC Basin defender Ralfton Jacobus switched to the attacking third and with three minutes to game time, front line and in the 87th minute received a through ball in the 18 yards box from right wing; with a perfect right foot volley he powered the ball past the keeper to a thunderous applause from fans to ensure the match ended 2-2.

The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) has revealed that March 14th is set for the return of the ‘Dexterity’ event after a six-year hiatus from the club’s calendar.

The event is set for the National Stadium, Providence on the East Bank of Demerara and will get underway at 16:00hrs, the cost to enter would be $1000.

Vice President of the club, Shairaz Roshandin, noted that the event is aimed at having maximum fan participation while the cost and ease of access location will encourage the patrons to come out in their numbers.

The main attraction of the Dexterity event will be the Race Challenge.

A course will be plotted using cones and competitors will be given a map that shows

how to maneuver with the driver that does it the fastest being the winner. The course race will be divided into three classes; the 1500cc, 2000cc and Unlimited.

This race will be open to the public and any driver challenge the pros with road cars in a controlled environment and entry will cost just $2000 per driver.

Roshandin explained that, “One car will be allowed at a time and you will be racing against the clock and your time will be taken to see who does it the fastest. The first 20 vehicles move on to the next round where a new course will be implemented.”

According to executive, the event will be a maximum skill test of acceleration, braking and turning.

Roshandin added that to participate in the event, a

driver does not need a specially built race car, just the requisite skills.

In addition, at the Dexterity event, there will be race cars and bikes on exhibition for fans to have a close-up look at the machines. There will also be exhibition performances by pro-drifters along with stunts and exhibition of car music systems.

Roshandin explained that systems will be put in place to ensure the safety of all fans and competitors and the Fire Service and Medical team will also be on standby as is the norm.

Meanwhile, the GMR&SC is still working on finalising which day in April the first round of the 2020 Drag Championships would be held. It’s being rescheduled from this month.

Mexico, Guyana, Haiti and Trinidad and Tobago advance in CU20W Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic– The final four places in the 2020 Concacaf Under-20 Women’s Championship were decided on Sunday in the final four matches of the Round of 16.

At the Estadio Panamericano in San Cristobal, Haiti continued to flex their scoring muscles with a 12-0 win over Barbados.

Melchie Dumornay’s (24’, 25’, 33’, 52’) scorching form continued with four goals, while Valentina Ornis (16’, 38’, 67’) notched a hat-trick and Estericove Joseph (2’), Dayana Pierre Louis (20’), Ruthny Mathurin (48’), Mirlene Dorce (82’) and Flero Surpris (89’) added goals.

With her total on the day, Durmonay currently leads the CUW20 in scoring with 10 goals.

The day’s second match in San Cristobal was the most dramatic of the tournament thus far, with Trinidad and Tobago advancing past Puerto Rico 5-4 in a penalty shootout following a 3-3 draw.

Afiyah Cornwall (3’, 44’) had the goals for the Soca Warriors in regular time, while Puerto Rico got scores from

Haiti continued to flex their scoring muscles with a 12-0 win over Barbados.

(Photo: Mexsport / Concacaf) Malina Pardo (18’) and Idelys Vazquez (24’). The 2-2 draw meant another 30 minutes of extra time, with Maria-frances Serrant (107’) scoring for Trinidad and Tobago and Cristina Torres (112’) leveling for the Boricuas in the extra period.

Matters had to be settled from the penalty spot, with Trinidad and Tobago converting all five attempts to punch their ticket to the final eight.

The other two matches took place at the Estadio Olimpico Felix Sanchez in Santo Domingo, beginning with Mexico rolling past Grenada 12-1.

Alison Gonzalez (12’, 26’) and Dania Perez (73’, 83’) both had braces, while Mariel Roman Pacheco (11’), Reyna Reyes (21’), Karla Zempoalteca (58’), Venicia Juarez (71’), Maricarmen Reyes (77’), Nayeli Diaz (89’) and own goals from Grenada’s Treasher Valcin (36’) and Judy Mcintosh (56’) contributed to El Tricolor’s scoreline. Sheranda Charles (49’) scored the lone goal for Grenada.

The day was rounded out

by Guyana’s 2-0 win over Cayman Islands in which a double from Audrey Narine (24’, 55’) did the trick for the ‘Lady Jags’.

Tuesday March 03, 2020

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Kaieteur News

Concacaf Women’s Under-20 Championship – Quarter Finals

We’ll have our work cut out against Haiti – Coach Joseph; Jade Vyfhuis believes “we can do it”

Head Coach Ivan Joseph (right) and his Technical Staff charting the way for the U20s in the Dominican Republic.

‘Lady Jags’ Jade Vyfhuis (left) believes that they can bring home the goods for Guyana.

As they continue to set the standards for the female game at this level, Guyana’s ‘Lady Jags’ will face their sternest test to date when they come up against Haiti tomorrow from 16:00hrs at the Panamericano Stadium.

The Guyanese, on debut at this championship and ranked #23 in the 41-member Concacaf has been taking down more accomplished opponents, the biggest to date being the Cayman Islands (ranked #16) which they trounced 2-0 in their round-of-16 match on Sunday night last on account of goals either side of play from Shanice Alfred and Aubrey Narine.

Guyana’s pathway to this

knockout stage of the competition saw them defeating Nicaragua and Puerto Rico and losing to Mexico to end second in Group D behind the Mexicans. This secured their passage to the round-of-16 and the Cayman Islands clash which they overcame and now face their next hurdle, in Haiti, tomorrow.

Coach Ivan Joseph who has been charting the course for the young ‘Lady Jags’ believes that Haiti would be tough opponents, noting that they are very physical, athletic and have very proficient scorers including the leading goal scorer of the competition so far.

“So they’ve got multiple

scoring threats which would be hard to contain. When you couple that with a very sound defensive line, we’ll have our work cut out for us. They play a very direct style of attack from the flanks; they like to go through their posting forward.”

Coach Joseph revealed that they have been doing their homework by watching tapes and would be developing their game plan for the match.

“But again, do we have the athletes to really compete, that would be the tale of this game. You’ll look for us to play a very conservative low pressure defense, clearly not the same level that we played against Mexico because you have to be able to score and while it was nice to defend for 78 minutes against Mexico, you’ve got to find a balance

between defending and being legitimately dangerous so the other team cant compel or commit as many players forward.

So look for us to try and find wherever that balance is in the game.”

‘Lady Jag’ Jade Vuyfhuis also commented on the Haiti match: “Going forward for the Haiti game I think we’re going to be looking to defend really well because they are a stronger team; I think having competition at their level is going to be good for us because we can see what we are capable of doing and we’re going to be able to push our boundaries a little bit.

That being said, it’s going to be a lot more physical so we’re going to try and match up to their physicality as well, but I think we can do it.”

Meanwhile, looking back

at the Cayman Islands win, Coach Joseph informed that they were pleased as a staff with the performance of the team even though the conditions weren’t ideal given the fact that rain was falling and they were without two of their main starters due to injury which resulted in a number of players playing out of position.

Despite, the Guyanese were able to manage their third win of four matches to date in the competition.

“It took us a little while to get settled, we had lots of opportunities. Of course, being the professionals we are we’d like to wish we were a little bit more clinical in the final third, we couldn’t quite deliver that final ball or put that shot on target but good teams find a way to win and we did.

The future is bright, I’m really pleased with that performance because we had some players come off the bench that are still quite young and developing that did a nice job and Tiandi had her best game of the tournament.

Another challenge at the tournament Coach Joseph shared is that they are many games in a certain amount of days which is testing on the kind of tactical decisions they would like to make as a Technical staff.

“But you’ll notice that we played a little bit different style, a little bit different formation and the ladies adjusted accordingly and we were able to play a different type of game against the Cayman Islands that saw us take advantage of some of their weaknesses.”

Phillips latest to qualify for CARIFTA Games U.S. based Guyanese student-athlete, Kenisha ‘Flash’ Phillips is the latest to make the qualifying mark for the 49th Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA) games that will run off in Bermuda this Easter weekend (April 10th-13th).

Phillips, who is a freshman at the Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee, ran a time of 23.92seconds in the women’s 200m final last Saturday at the Ohio Valley Conference Championship.

Phillips’ time was her personal best in the half lap and it ensured that she qualified to represent team Guyana at both the CARIFTA Games and the 2020 World Junior Championships, which returns to Nairobi, Kenya from July 7th – 12th.

During the Ohio Valley Conference Championships,

Kenisha Phillips.

Phillips finished second in the 60m dash with a time of 7.54 seconds while she helped her

team to victory in the women’s 4x400m dash.

Austin Peay State

women’s team came out number one at the meet out of the 10 teams that

competed, amassing a total of 101.5 points, edging Murray State by just a point to the top rank.

Phillips has been in exceptional form in the 200m pet event and has won the race in her last three meets with the Samford Bulldog Open 2020 (Feb 14-15) and the Thundering Herd Invitational 2020 (Jan 24-25) being the other triumphs.

The other Guyanese who have qualified for CARIFTA 2020 are Anisha Gibbons, Attoya Harvey, Seon Booker, Okenoko Pascal,Wesley Tyndall, Randy Hamilton, Adriel Austin, Keliza Smith, Annalisa Barclay, Princess Browne and Trevon Hamer.

Loneil Marks, who was reported to have made the cut, will have to try again at the final trial at the National Track & Field Center (NTFC) on the 14th and 15th of this

month after his time was deemed void due to a faulty start.

Last year, in the Bahamas, a total of 17 athletes took part in the 48th edition of the competition, copping three gold medals. Currently 12 athletes have qualified so far and the head of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), Aubrey Hutson, believes that a few more will make qualifying marks at this meet since the junior athletes will be pushed harder because they will be going head to head with seniors.

The CARIFTA Games are an annual Junior Track & Field competition founded by the Caribbean Free Trade Association. The Games started in 1972 serving as the premier junior regional championship for the Caribbean/Caricom region.

(Calvin Chapman)

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Tuesday March 03, 2020

Kaieteur News

Jaguars confident of winning title again says Johnson; Praises Permaul

By Sean Devers Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul captured a career best 8-18 from 11.4 overs to spearhead the Guyana Jaguars to a seven-wicket victory over hosts Jamaica Scorpions on the third day of their sixth round West Indies four-day Championship match at the Trelawny Multiplex in Florence Hall on Saturday last.

Set 24 to win their third game this season, Jaguars lost three wickets before Christopher Barnwell hit the winning run to give the Jaguars their first victory in three matches. Permaul ended the match with 15-77 to take his wicket tally for the season to 45.

Guyana are placed second on the points table behind leaders Barbados with three wins, two losses and a draw with 79 points. Barbados are on 108.2 points while Jamaica sits on third spot 61.2 points, the Windwards on 56.8 are fourth, T&T with 54.8 on fifth while the Leewards are in the cellar on 40.4 points.

“We had a pretty solid game, winning the toss and inserting Jamaica. We did well to bowl them out for 216 on day one” said 32-year-old Jaguars Captain Leon Johnson.

The five-times defending Champions reached 304 as Vishaul Singh and Chanderpaul Hemraj missed out centuries but Johnson who scored an unbeaten 189 against the Windwards in their drawn fifth round game in Dominica, was not satisfied with his overall batting performance.

“Batting wise I felt we didn’t score as many as we should have taking into consideration they were a bowler down from the fourth over of our innings. Vishaul (Singh) and Hemmy (Hemraj) played very well and should have really gone on to register centuries as well” said Johnson who also noted that the track in Jamaica was a very good cricket wicket.

“It had a bit in it for the bowlers in the first session on day one and was good for batting on day two. On day three there was a lot of rain around and the moisture seemed to change the conditions in favour of the spinners” explained Johnson who holds the record for winning the most consecutive Regional titles as Skipper.

Johnson’s hundred in Dominica took his first-Class aggregate to 6,000 runs and he said despite just winning

Leon Johnson three of their six games this season, the team is confident of winning a sixth straight title this year. Last season Guyana lost three matches.

“Yes we are confident, we just need to take care of what we can and that would be to win our remaining (4) games.

If we do that we will right up there to win again” said the GCC left-hander.

He was high in praise for

Berbician Permaul who joined Jamaican left-arm spinner Nakita Miller and off-spinner Shane Shillingford with 500 Regional First Class wickets.

“Permaul was excellent in this game, his 100th for Guyana. He has continued his good this season and looks well on his way to breaking his own Regional record of most wickets in a season” noted Johnson.

Veerasammy Permaul has 45 wickets from six matches.

The 30-year-old Permaul who has 531 wickets from 119 First-Class games made his Test debut in November 2012 and has 18 wickets from six Tests.

Despite his Regional consistency Permaul has not played a Test match since June 2015 when he took a

record 67 wickets in that season. In the 2018 season Permaul took 50 wickets.

The Guyana Jaguars were scheduled to arrive home last night and will not practice today.

Guyana face the Leeward Islands from Thursday in the seventh round at Providence

Mohamed’s XI triumph Ron Ramnauth’s century leads Park Rangers to victory despite Rambaran’s seven-wicket haul Despite a seven-wicket haul from Devon Rambaran, Ejaz Mohamed’s XI defeated Kennard Lewis XI by seven runs when the teams collided on Sunday last in a 25-over fixture sponsored by Zoo Bar International.

Batting first at the Wakenaam Community Centre ground in Good Success, Ejaz Mohamed XI managed 178 all out in 25 overs. Openers Jaggernauth Manbodh and Mahase Ramnarine handed them a decent start with an opening stand of 62 before Ramnarine perished for 18.

Manbodh continued to play his shots and put on 80 for the second wicket with Nokta Moses to further frustrate their opponents before their resistance was halted by Rambaran. Moses struck five fours and three sixes in scoring 61 while Manbodh scored 45 with six fours.

Following their separation, Rambaran picked

Ron Ramnauth struck a fine century to guides Park Rangers to a comprehensive victory over Ariel Masters when the teams collided in the Enterprise Sports Club T20 softball final recently.

Ramnauth struck 10 fours and nine sixes in a top

score of 109 and added 117 for the second wicket with opener Mohamed Rafeek after Park Rangers lost the e a r l y w i c k e t o f Vi s h n u Baljit who was run out for one.

Rafeek made 63 with six fours and five sixes and following his dismissal,

Ramnauth put on a further 83 with Danny Mohanram who was dismissed for 18. Arjune Persaud chipped in with 18 not out as Park Rangers posted 243-9. Dharam Persaud and S. Sookraj took two wickets each.

Ariel Masters lost some early wickets in the chase

Devon Rambaran up wickets at regular intervals to finish with 7-28 while Kennard Lewis took 2-20.

Lewis XI threatened, but fell for 171 in 24.2 overs in response. Vickram Ramnarine slammed five fours in a top score of 47 while Bernard Lewis made 28, Kennard Lewis 17 and Beesham Moses 16. Nokta Moses captured 329 while Cleon Venture and Jaggernauth Manbodh had two each.

The victorious Park Rangers team.

before Sookraj propped up the total somewhat with an even half century. Following his dismissal, Ariel Masters never really recovered and were bowled out for 144 in 17 overs. Man-of-the-match Ramnauth and Arjune Persaud picked up three wickets each.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 03, 2020

PAGE 33

Silverbullet and North Soesdyke record victories Silverbullet and North Soesdyke registered victories when the East Bank Demerara Cricket Association/MMM Mining T20 knockout competition continued on Sunday last at Joe Vieira Park.

Silverbullet beat Providence by two wickets.

Providence batted first and scored 136-9. Gordon Ross made 38 with one four and three sixes while D. Fraser scored 33 which contained three fours and a similar number of sixes.

Colin Benjamin claimed 3-20 from four overs while

Colin Benjamin

Abdel Bacchus took 2-16 and Vickram Locknauth 222. Silverbullet responded with 139-8 in 19.1 overs.

Bacchus struck six fours and two sixes in scoring 56 while Luen David scored 19 with two sixes. D. Fraser and Steve John captured two wickets each.

North Soesdyke overcame Timehri Rising Youth by 34 runs. North Soesdyke posted a challenging 200-5, after they opted to bat. Hemraj Garbarran stroked 10 fours and one six in scoring 59 while Shamar Yearwood

Abdel Bacchus

made 46 with three fours and three sixes and C. Archer 26 including three fours. M.

Ramjattan snared 2-35.

In reply, Timehri Rising Youth made 166 all out in

17.5 overs. M. Persaud scored 34 with six fours while J. Samuels scored 30

including five fours. The competition will continue on Saturday.

Concacaf Women’s Under-20 Championship – Quarter Finals

We’ll have our work cut out against Haiti – Coach Joseph; Jade Vyfhuis believes “we can do it” rt Spo

The Under-20 ‘Lady Jags’ set to face Haiti in the quarter finals of the Concacaf Women’s Under-20 Championship.

Phillips latest to qualify for CARIFTA Games

Kenisha Phillips (left) in action for Austin Peay State University Governors.

RFA Champions League/North Rupununi Leg

The triumphant FC Basin Female Team

FC Basin maul new comers Spartans FC in female clash; male matches end in draws

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