K
AIETEUR NEWS
2020 Elections…
PSC “disappointed and
Wednesday Edition March 04, 2020 - Vol. 15 No. 09
Online: www.kaieteurnews.com
extremely concerned” with delays by Returning Officers
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Declaration of election results…
Pay no attention to
anyone but GECOM
- Chief Elections Officer Lowenfield
OAS repeats call for modern tabulation system for early election results Cops file documents Stores closed and gas station boarded up on Regent St.
for Gary Best to
City at a standstill appear in court today as nation awaits Grenada prevents outcome of polls Chinese
See details on centre
nationals from
disembarking flight Teen killed while defending mother during family brawl Global Company awarded Witness exposes…Congo oil project has
links to leader’s family
Wednesday March 04, 2020
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Kaieteur News
British, US envoys laud GECOM’s operations
US Ambassador, Sarah Ann Lynch Two esteemed members of the diplomatic community congratulated the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for a job well done in its production of fair and credible elections. British High Commissioner, Greg Quinn and US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch spoke to the press on the sidelines of a press conference held at the GECOM media centre yesterday, downtown Georgetown.
Lynch said that the day went smoothly, and that that is a great accomplishment. “I was out in several regions yesterday (Monday), I went to a couple of polling stations in Bartica, Essequibo, Linden and Skeldon also Rose Hall and New Amsterdam and, in each case, the process was well run and smooth.” Quinn also noted no irregularities during the electoral process, adding that it went just as it needed to.
At this juncture, the public awaits a speedy tabulation and announcement of the results by GECOM. Both members of the diplomatic community urged calm, and added that GECOM needs ample time to verify the results. “We have to wait and let GECOM do what it needs to do,” Quinn said. GECOM had provided an online portal for persons to view preliminary results at the end of E-Day on March 2.
Cops file documents for Gary Best to appear in COURT TODAY
British High Commissioner, Greg Quinn However, the failure of the portal to work was the source of much public frustration. It
was only until late afternoon yesterday that the portal began to work, and is
periodically updated while the public awaits the full election results.
Teen killed while defending mother during family brawl A Buxton, East Coast Demerara family was plunged into a state of mourning on Sunday after a young man met his demise trying to defend his mother from being chopped to death during a family brawl. The victim was identified as 18-year-old Daniel Akeem Amore, a labourer, of Section 20 A’ Friendship, Buxton, East Coast Demerara. The incident at around 21:00hrs while the suspect, a 25-year-old labourer, is said to be still on the run. On the day in question, police said that two brothers - Haslyn Williams and James Dublin - were having a drink
at Clyde Roopchand Drive, Friendship, Buxton, when a heat argument ensued between them. This later turned physical. Kaieteur News understands that Amore’s mother, Mellisia Garraway, intervened to bring some peace between the two men and at that time, the suspect, said to be related to Williams, entered the yard and confronted Dublin. An argument began and the suspect left the yard, returning with a cutlass and a knife in hand and began assaulting Dublin with both objects. Kaieteur News was
informed that Garraway attempted to intervene once again, but this turned the suspect’s attention to her and she reportedly sustained a chop wound to her left hand and fingers. This act angered her teenage son who confronted the suspect and according to reports, the suspect dropped the weapons and left the yard with the teen in hot pursuit. Amore and the suspect began to fight and the teen was allegedly stabbed to the centre of his chest. He was picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Pay no attention to anyone but...
Jude Bentley Former Chief-of-Staff and Retired Rear Admiral, Gary Best should finally make his long-overdue appearance in court today. A senior police official disclosed that documents were filed in court yesterday for Best to be charged with causing the death of former national cyclist Jude Bentley. “The matter has been filed in court for him to appear tomorrow (today). If he does not (appear) there are courses of action we can take.” Asked why Best had not made an appearance earlier, the official said that “more
Gary Best work had to be done.” Last Thursday, police disclosed that the Director of Public Prosecutions had recommended that Best be charged with causing death by dangerous driving and driving under the influence of alcohol. Best’s attorney, James Bond, had said that his client was slated to appear in court on Tuesday. Bentley was struck down and killed on the Rupert Craig Highway in the vicinity of the Russian Embassy on February 8. Best was driving the vehicle that struck the
cyclist. Police had said that Best was over the legal alcohol limit at the time of the accident. Reports stated that both parties were headed east when the accident occurred. Best’s vehicle also struck a utility pole before coming to a halt The former Chief-of-Staff was detained, but later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital’s cardiac ward after he complained of feeling unwell. He was discharged a day later and released on $100,000 station bail.
From page 3 that it would take a while for GECOM to completely tabulate all the results. He had previously said that he expected the returning officers for each district to have already declared the district’s results by noon. That was not the case. GECOM Chair, Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh, also addressed the gathering at the press conference, asking the public to be patient and to allow GECOM to do its work. At the point in time that the press conference was held, GECOM had already collected most of the statements of poll from around the country, save for some situated in remote areas, like some parts of Region Eight. While GECOM did have a majority of the statements of poll, Lowenfield explained that it is important for the documents to pass through an administrative process
meant to verify their accuracy, and to ensure that the election results are beyond reproach. Unfortunately, in the meantime, fake and/or sensationalized news has festered on social media platforms. Fake news has been circulating on Facebook, for instance, in abundance. Late yesterday, GECOM released a statement advising the public to be aware of a fake Facebook page, purporting to be that of the Commission. The page, going under
the alias ‘Guyanas Election Commissions’ “has been releasing inaccurate information with an intent to cause mischief and confusion,” GECOM stated. GECOM stressed that persons must be “alert and ignore all such content.” All official updates will be posted on GECOM’s official page. The GECOM’s official w e b s i t e , www.guyanaelections.com is where all updates pertaining to the recently held General and Regional elections can be found.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 04, 2020
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
Gecom’s declaration of readiness
W
e are ready! So said Gecom last week. As reassurances go, there is little room for failure on that promise, that commitment. The first phase of that authoritative pronouncement from the head of Gecom was delivered in fine fashion on polling day, Monday, March 2nd. In a mainly manual and paper process, and across near and distant areas of operations and oversight, the agency responsible for national and regional elections performed outstandingly. All Guyanese should step forward to extend congratulations and commendations. As is well known, however, that was the public, largely physical and visible stage. It was the beginning, and of which some, if not many, would claim is the easiest part of an always thorny and disturbed process. We are now in the midst of the hard part, which puts immense pressure on that “We are ready!” statement. The best evidence, the most persuasive element, of that declaration for Guyanese would be the timeliness of results. We repeat: the timeliness of results. Given our history, it should be urgent, without the undue haste that leads to error and endless agitations. We have had enough of that already, and Monday was not immune from them, even on a day of a largely, very smoothly run exercise. The margins of expectations are so thin, as to be inseparable, and they continue to reflect the harsh, searing divide. And this is among the many reasons that, though time is of the supreme essence, the greatest of care must characterize the process going forward. Or despite the furors on social media and countless competing claims of electoral triumph by one or the other of the two major presences. It must be remembered that that is part of ongoing electioneering, which is still in full swing. Gecom must go about its business with unruffled calm, in steady dignity, and with determination to serve the nation faithfully and cleanly. That is what we say here at this paper, that is our stand in this most pressing of times, when every soaring anticipation that could be imagined finds flourishing territory. It is why we step forward at this early and most sensitive hour to articulate the following. The updates and releases, the whole kit and kaboodle of the paraphernalia of results, must be crisp and clear and conclusive. They must be authoritative and final in their parts and in their sum. Anything less would not be the required, looked for, culmination of the guaranteed readiness, but of something less. It would be that which is redolent of sloppiness and slackness. The hope is that this most sensitive and crucial of agencies at this time would rise and deliver on this second phase of our elections process. At the present time, and for all intents and purposes, our society is already struggling to go through the motions of returning to some sense of everyday routines, such as work and school and the myriad other occupations that fill the passing hours. Those hours weigh heavily, since all eyes and all ears and all minds are focused near totally on the oracle into which Gecom is transformed during these demanding, unrelenting times. The ensemble of our physical nonchalance is an unconvincing mirage representative of the outward only. On this Wednesday, Guyana is reduced to a society tethered to tenterhooks. Man, woman, and grown child react ceaselessly, spook readily. There are so many expectations, built on the backs of so many dreams, that it might be inhuman for matters or peoples to be otherwise. Those are components of the local contexts that continue to capture and control the outlooks, energies, and priorities of every Guyanese at
We all have to take a stand against this unacceptable and detrimental trend DEAR EDITOR, I write with concern for the recent upsurge in violence and crime among out youth. As I would have mentioned before on my social media platform, there is a desperate need for an interschool approach and a complete reform of our education system, Social Protection Act and policies dealing with minors. We as a nation have lost our way ten times over, and we will continue to do so unless we can first accept that this is a crisis. No longer should we sit and wait for the Ministries, politicians or leaders to act, it
is at this point and no other that every citizen, regardless of socioeconomic status, political affiliation, ability and belief must force the hands of not only the Ministry of Education but the Ministry of Social Protection and the religious community along with every other relevant agency to take a stand against this unacceptable and detrimental trend, which is slowly becoming a norm. There is a hype and pleasurable fulfilment to be gained from seeing and broadcasting your friends or classmates or country man being abused, beaten and killed. This will never end well
and retaliation from such cases can have so many negative and rippling effects on our social life, educational standings, tourism, security status, etc. Our schools and by extension education system are too focused on preparing kids for examinations and projects and have failed and continue to fail daily in properly educating them about what life really is and how to exist in the real world. Violence has managed to take control of so many, too many, of our youth and whether it stems from influence of music, social media, abusive families, broken communities, neglect, absentee-
ism of fathers or role models, peer pressure or a blatant disregard for rules and regulations, it needs to be taken very seriously and be dealt with immediately. I cannot ever over emphasize the need to establish more non-formal educational programmes and organisations countrywide and I too am to be blamed in part for this monster we have created and are dealing with, since I may not or may not have done enough to offer solutions to this scorn we have today. I have said enough. Tyson English Concerned teacher and citizen
Anxiety over Elections’ Outcome DEAR EDITOR, There is much anxiety over the outcome of the elections. Voters, the nation, want an immediate, prompt declaration. That is not possible. It is not a constituency system where partial results can be declared — meaning for the constituency. The entire country is a constituency. Voters have to wait for the returns of all the 2,300 voting stations. They have to be aggregated for each party. Given
the vastness of the country and lack of efficient transportation, it is a time consuming process. It would take days to get the statements of polls in Georgetown. Hence the lengthy amount of time to report and declare the election results. On this note, Dr. Steve Surujbally cannot be blamed for taking days to declare the results in 2006, 2011, and 2016. He was unfairly attacked. Of course, the major parties would have known from their
GECOM delivered as it said it would DEAR EDITOR, “It was a grand day” so says GECOM Chair. That I a g re e w i t h . Quiet, peaceful and calm except for a few hiccu p s a n d skirmishes. GE COM delivered as it said it would. Kudos to Madam Chair, commissioners, CEO and all staff for a job well done. We now await the results.
We are confident you will deliver on that too. Shamshun Mohamed
Work together for the benefit of all Guyanese DEAR EDITOR, At the time of writing this letter no one knows the outcome of the 2nd March 2020 General Election in Guyana. I suggest that the winner extend a hand of friendship to the loser and start working together for the benefit of all Guyanese. This way all Guyanese win.We need to move pass the politics of the past and boldly forge a united future so that our motto of One People, One Nation, One Destiny becomes a reality. Yours Faithfully, Sean Ori this juncture in our history, this most fateful of stages in our existence. The eligible voting public has done its part, so matters are now out of the hands of those citizens who participated actively and responsibly. All roads end at the doors of Gecom. All is in the hands of its servants and its leaders. That spirited and confident enhancing declaration of “We are ready” now faces its most serious scrutiny, its most grueling challenges, with the most delicate of pathways to be adhered to and completed with power and authority. The proof comes in the timeliness of results: clean, convincing results.
SOPs their undeclared unofficial tallies. These should not vary from the official tallies. But they would because of tampering. The two major parties know the outcome of the elections. One party has won. Based on my calculation, one party is projected to have won some 51%, another party 48%, and the minor parties 1%. This would be a projected outcome of 34-31 seats. Can these numbers change? Anything is possible in Guyana with tampering of boxes and inputting of numbers in computer. In an earlier article, I commented that previous elections were fraudulent. That was the view of voters, not mine. I do not think or believe and there is/was evidence to suggest that any chair of Gecom played any role in rigging. By no means did I mean to impugn the integrity and professionalism of any chair. I humbly apologize to the preceding chairs for suggesting anything out of the extraordi-
nary in managing elections. All performed admirably well under strenuous and stressful conditions. I do not think any of them deliberately played a role in influencing the outcome. They must be applauded for their work. On the recent elections, officials must behave professionally and announce the results as obtained from the will of the electorate. The announcement of the outcome must be done expeditiously. People will remain tense until the outcome is announced. Yours truly, Dr. Vishnu Bisram
Wednesday March 04, 2020
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Kaieteur News
GUYANA’S GREATEST ASSET IS ITS PEOPLE DEAR EDITOR, Recently, I returned home to Guyana after more than 10 years. It was apparent that numerous drastic changes have occurred in infrastructure, economy and society. Infrastructure obviously has boomed within the past 10 years with significant growth in the construction industry as many people now own impressive houses. In fact, it would be very hard to own homes of that size and quality in most developed countries. For instance, it is hard to miss the beautiful private residential housing developments on the breezy East Coast around Lusignan Village. However, these homes are clearly intended for the wealthy and Overseas based Guyanese. In terms of the roads, the major ones that I traversed on were quite satisfactory. However, I was particularly impressed with the work done by the Chinese contractors on the East Coast public road. However, it would have been great to be able to travel to Lethem and maybe onto Brazil comfortably by road. I believe that leaders need to make more effort to increase trade and commerce with our Brazilian neighbours. During my time spent in Guyana, I kept hearing about the influx of Venezuelans into the country and I was able to recognise a number of the Spanish speaking people working for bars and shops
and holding various low paying jobs. However, the service from the Venezuelans was actually very good, contrary to their portrayal by some local people. It is my opinion that these people are an asset to the bars and restaurants and consequently they are effectively contributing to the economy. In the 80s when Guyana was experiencing very severe economic hardship, a significant number of Guyanese people migrated to Venezuela in search of work. There was also a brisk trade with Venezuela during that time, I recall travelling to Fort Island under the cover of darkness one morning to buy plastic products from Venezuela.. Despite Guyana being an integral part of the West Indies, it is extremely important for us to also be integrated into our South American community. I have been fortunate to grow up with close ties to Brazilian immigrants and I am aware of the potential of these people. Therefore, the unfortunate events in Venezuela that have driven many people to our shores, bringing many challenges also brings opportunities to give our population a much needed boost. However, these people should be supported to learn to speak and write English and integrate into our community. Immigrants around the world are known for their hard work
around the world and contribution to the economy. The scourge of corruption continues to be a major issue in our country. During my stay, I witnessed corruption first hand in a police station. My relatives got pulled over for having an old style number plate. The young female officer threatened to compound the car and take them to court for the offense. The officer received a bribe in the police station, and the car was released after the correct style of number plate was installed. We need to find ways to demand higher standards from our police and other civil servants for the sake of the country. It is clear from talking to families and friends that abuse of power by people in authority con-
tinues to be a major concern in Guyana. Particularly at a time when our country is being opened up to more regional and international visitors for businesses associated with oil exploration and the other resources that Guyana has in abundance. The level of security for people living in Guyana continues to be a major barrier to development and prosperity. It was great to witness the decentralisation of businesses from Georgetown. I enjoyed the malls on the east coast and the fact that there is so much commerce outside of Georgetown. As the capital of the country, Georgetown is in a complete and utter state of dereliction: streets are congested and surrounded by garbage. The
sidewalks are covered with an innumerable amount of vendors, all selling practically the same goods. This is simply an unacceptable state for the capital of our country to be in. Not only do Guyanese people deserve a more becoming environment in their capital but it is also extremely important in terms of tourism. The town has several tourist attractions that are shrouded by garbage and cluster. It is a great disservice to our Tourism sector having Georgetown as a representation of our country.However, there were certain things that were satisfactory. The art exhibition of work from the students at the art school that was on exhibition at the national museum was amazing. It was a great
way to use that space to showcase and encourage our talented young people. The museum itself has not changed much over the last 30 years. In fact it looked somewhat run down, an upgrade is definitely necessary to get it back up to par. Despite it all, I have to say that the greatest asset of our country is not our gold or timber or the oil that’s flowing but our people. It was a great joy to see so many small businesses everywhere, the infectious smiles and enthusiasm of our people. I plead with every Guyanese to show more love for our country by keeping it clean and by working together, only in this way that we can build a better country for everyone. Leon Singh
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 04, 2020
Wednesday March 04, 2020
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Kaieteur News
OAS repeats call for modern tabulation system for early election results By Rehanna Ramsay In its preliminary report on the March 2020 General and Regional Elections, the Organization of American States, (OAS) made several key recommendations by which to strengthen the nation’s electoral systems In the report the OAS noted among other things, the need for the implementation of more efficient systems for the timely delivery of the elections results. Guyana’s elections result usually takes days to be processed and declared. Giving an overview of the preliminary findings of the OAS Mission, Head of the team and Former Prime Minister (PM) of Jamaica Bruce Golding told the press that a majority of the stakeholders whom the mission engaged expressed their concern about the length of time typically required to tabulate and declare the results of Guyana elections. “The largely manual tabulation system, coupled with the country’s geography, infrastructure and population distribution, among other factors, can create significant
challenges for the organization of elections and timely delivery of results,” Golding told members of the press at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston yesterday. Golding said while it is recognized that Article 99 of the Representation of the People Act allows up to fifteen days after Elections Day for the declaration of the results, extended delays by the authorities in publicizing official data creates a window for the insertion of unhelpful speculation and uncertainty in the post-election period. The former Jamaican Head-of-State noted that the elections commission should be considering implementing a more modern tabulation system for the allocation of votes. “I recommend that the elections commission consider implementing a system to give preliminary results and make information available on elections day or the morning after.” According to Golding, the development of a technological solution would see the transfer of statements of poll from regions to a central server through the establish-
Head of the OAS Observer Mission and former Jamaican PM Bruce Golding ment of a central computerized results receiving system. The former Jamaican PM nonetheless commended the Guyanese people for their patience while waiting on GECOM to make the official declarations. He urged the nation to continue to keep the peace until those declarations are made. During a press briefing earlier in the day, Chief Elections Officer (CEO) of GECOM Keith Lowenfield
told the media that GECOM ‘s attempt to implement of a modern system met with difficulties. “We tested that system at the University of Guyana student elections. We saw some of the problems that can be derived from such a system and the matter was deliberated by the representatives of political parties, but I daresay we are still where we are. It provided results for student elections, but there are
other factors which govern the implementation or operationalisation of those recommendations.” He said too that not all recommendations made will be accepted by the electoral body or its stakeholders. On Monday, the OAS led a 20-member delegation to observe Guyana’s elections. During a briefing with the press on elections day, Golding spoke of recommendations of the OAS Mission in 2011 and 2015 to improve GECOM’s efficiency Golding told the media that “Regrettably, a lot of the recommendations made by the OAS Missions that were here in 2015 and 2011 are still languishing.” Among the recommendations in the previous report by the OAS was for the implementation of a system of electronic tabulation of the preliminary results, given the concerns about the length of time it takes for the announcing of the election results. Golding told the media, “It is not good to have an election on Monday and several days can pass before the people of Guyana can know what the outcomes of the elec-
tions are. That is courting mistrust; it is providing fertile ground for rumours and conspiracies and so on. And, in our discussions with GECOM, we certainly urged them to do everything possible to complete the tabulation and to have the results declared as early as possible. You would have to wait and see what happens after today.” Notwithstanding this, the former Jamaican PM said, “You have to bear in mind, of course that, based on the geography of Guyana, there are remote polling stations where it could take time for the results to be conveyed. We’re told that, in some cases, they would have to use aircraft, [and] in some cases, you have to use boats.” “Time would have to be allowed for that breakdown and care to ensure that in that process, whether the ballots are being conveyed by boat or plane, the ballot boxes and the statements of poll are carefully protected and the integrity is preserved.” “But in them, we feel that we don’t have to wait until the last box or late statements of (Continued on page 22)
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 04, 2020
PSC “disappointed and extremely concerned” with delays by Returning Officers T
2020 Elections… he delay in the dec larations of election results of the Returning Officers (ROs) for their respective districts is disappointing and of extreme concern. This was expressed by the Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Captain Gerry Gouveia, during a press conference yesterday. Captain Gouveia related that on Monday when the PSC visited the outskirts of Georgetown to observe the election operations, he was “exceptionally impressed” by the proceedings. He emphasized that operations were professional, smooth and efficient, and he exited the polls with a great sense of confidence in the declaration of results. However 24 hours after the polls had closed, nothing was announced, resulting in the PSC being left in a state of concern. Gouveia explained that, “This delay is of extreme concern to us; that returning officers have not been able to publicly make any declarations at this time. We expected to have the
information - at least the declarations five bigger Regions - Three, Four, Five, Six and Ten - at 12:00 to 13:00 hrs, the latest. And then we expected that the declarations of outlying regions such as One, Two, Seven, Eight and Nine to have started sometime this morning (yesterday) and by now we would have expected the returning officers to have been in a position to also publicly announce those results, thereby giving GECOM the opportunity to add ten numbers… to deliver election results to the nation.” When asked whether he spoke to the GECOM to raise his concerns, Gouveia explained that he met with the Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, yesterday, to get assurances that the CEO was not prohibiting the ROs from making declarations. Lowenfield gave his assurance that this was not the case. According to the Chairman, the ROs do not require the approval of the CEO before they actually make their declarations. He noted that in the last
Chairman of the PSC, Gerry Gouveia (centre) with PSC representatives
legal advice given to him it stated that the law authorizes the ROs to make the public declarations soonest after the tabulation process is over. “Lowenfield told me that he was not interfering with the process; that the Returning Officers were allowed to make their declarations, but what
concerned us though, is even at this time, we have not been aware of any official declaration of the results at the regional level,” he stated. Furthermore, Gouveia was keen to note that the delay in election results has created fear and paranoia in the local business community, and ref-
erenced the shutdown of businesses in the entire country yesterday. He went on to state that the “apprehension” is not in the favour of the business community or the country’s economy. “Across the city and a lot of parts of the country, there’s
an apprehension by business owners, and we are actually reaching out to say to them: ‘We have confidence in the GECOM system, and hopefully will get these results very quickly’” he said. Nonetheless, the PSC urges Guyanese and international onlookers to be patient.
Wednesday March 04, 2020
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Kaieteur News
Ease your stress this week! The period leading up to general and regional elections can be extremely stressful for Guyanese. But the stress of the elections and the interminable wait for the results, as well as the anxieties associated with whether the losers will accept the result, can take its toll on a person’s emotional health. Stress, as we know, is associated with a decline in human health. If you wish to stay healthy, therefore, reduce your stress. A way has to be found to ease your stress during this week while the nation waits patiently for GECOM to complete its tabulation of results. But what is there to be done to pass the time? For the majority of people, life has to go on as usual. They have to go to work and earn their keep. But many are finding that business is slow this week and employers are keen to close their businesses
early and discharge their staff so that they make their way home before it gets dark. Many persons, however, opt not to leave the home. And this has nothing to do with the coronavirus, but rather, with precautions to ensure their safety. Today’s column attempts to do this for the many persons who are forced out of fear to huddle in their homes until election tensions abate. There are many things which a person can find to do around the home or in their garden. Phagwah will be celebrated next week, and this is as good a time as any to do some house-cleaning and clutter-clearing. This week is as good as any to get the house spick and span to celebrate Phagwah – a colourful Hindu festival which is also celebrated in Guyana. Gardening has proven therapeutic benefits. Doing
work in your flower or kitchen garden is an excellent stress reliever and far better than hitting the bottle. The weather at present is extremely dry. Plants are wilting in the sun, and this is the perfect time to clear weeds from the garden and to water your plants. It is an excellent choice to reach for a book this weekend. You can always find a good book to read online, in the local bookstores or at the public library. A few days ago, I was browsing in a store in Giftland Mall when I noticed that they actually have some excellent books for lending for a few. But for those who do not have the money, there are countless websites which offer free books. And of course you can always get a good book to read at the library. Many parents are not sending their children to school this week. And so this
DEM BOYS SEH Dem oil companies glad when we fighting If is one thing Guyanese good at it is causing confusion. Guyanese can’t see something without adding some mystery to it or adding on more than dem see when dem got to talk about de event or de thing. A man house go up in flames yesterday. De man deh overseas. Dem boys don’t think anybody been in de house but because is election time right away people go pun dem phone, tek a photo and blame a certain set of people. One man jump and warn dem but since it nice fuh blame somebody, dem didn’t stop. It tun out that de fire was electrical. In de old days people woulda seh was
obeah or fire-bun. That fire tek some of de tension from people because dem tek dem mind off de elections. Dem don’t know that dem oil company like de confusion. Dem want to see Guyanese fighting because when dem fighting dem farrin people simply pick up and carry way everything. And dem boys seh de people who fighting is de Indian, de Black and de Amerindian. In de old days people woulda seh de Coolie, de Black and de Buck. Dem boys was eager to add one Putagee but when dem really look dem realize that he is de only Putagee lef. He grandparents did name
him Mikel Antonio Batista. But when de man look around he decide to change he name to Michael Anthony Baptiste. Somebody did ask wha happen to Kit but dem boys seh he don’t see heself as a Putagee because he ain’t sure what he is. Meanwhile, de oil companies smiling all de way to de bank. Dem even preparing to bypass de Central Bank and get dem money straight to de Bank of America. And if people wondering why, dem should realize that every business shut down in G/T. Talk half and stop fighting over small things
is a good time to spend some quality time with the kids at home. Many people feel that they have to leave the home to spend quality time. But this week is a good time to sit down with the children over a meal or a board game. Sports fans also have a lot of matches on this week which can help pass their time. This morning (Guyana time) at 9.30 am, the West Indies and Sri Lanka squareoff in the first match of their T20 series. The contest should make for some exciting cricket and the Regional side attempts to reverse its three successive defeats in the just-concluded one-day
internationals. The second match will take place on Friday. Two exciting matches in the space of three days should help ease the anxieties over the results of the elections. South Africa and Australia also face each other in matches this week. These should be thrilling and entertaining matches. There is other international cricket being played this week which can take people’s minds off of the elections. Football lovers can this weekend tune in to at least eight English Premier League matches. The League is becoming one of the most popu-
lar in Europe, outclassing even the Spanish and Italian leagues. There is always something to do in order to take your mind off the tense political situation. So rather than frustrate oneself in trying to determine who won the elections, why not find something better to do. Ease your stress this week. Life will go on! (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 04, 2020
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Stay calm, collected, and help keep Guyana safe I doubt when you pick up this edition of the Kaieteur News, there will be the 2020 election results. I wrote yesterday that it may very well be Thursday. Once GECOM and the international observers have pronounced, all contestants have to and must accept the results. This evil act in every election of this group claiming it has won and that group saying that is not true, that in fact it has won, must come to an end. It is stupid and savage. You contest an election, you lost, then plan for the future and let your country strive. One of the two big parties
has won. I don’t care which one it is. I was not a supporter of either. I stated how I would have voted more than a year ago, and I voted on Monday for Lenox Shuman. My congratulation to the winner once GECOM makes its pronouncement. In this commentary, I want to continue where I left off yesterday, and that is to advocate for inclusive reach by the new government. When a party wins a landslide in Guyana given our ethnic make- up, it means that the victor has multi-racial support. If the winner of the 2020 poll did not get a huge major-
ity and when you examine the margin of victory through the use of demographical analysis, the victory was not by a sizeable leap, then the new dispensation has to open up to the totality of this nation. I rehash for emphasis what I wrote for my Monday column, titled, “Only inclusive power, not oil alone, will birth a future.” When the numerical difference in ballotcollection reflects the demographic shape of Guyana, then the rulers have to put themselves in the place of the supporters of the losers who see the narrowness of the triumph as no real triumph at all.
They ridicule the margin of victory. The other half from 2011 never reconciled itself to minority government. In 2011, the other half serenaded their constituencies with the song of minority government. In 2015, zero point three percent separated losers from victors. The other has never reconciled itself to that tiny difference. So the question has to be how can a legally elected minority regime or legally elected government with a narrow victory govern fairly and effectively without resentment from the constituencies that missed out? The answer is they can rule, but can the tenure be crisis-free. The 2011 minority administration and the 2015 dispensation were crisisladen. Can we go past that after this week? There can only be one answer; we have to. What is past is dead and gone. The elections of 2011 and 2015 have disappeared into history. There is a new administration that will be sworn in later this week. It cannot be business as usual. Do I have a blueprint for inclusive governance? My answer is yes and no. A paradigm for power-sharing has been on the table years now and written by several inde-
pendent analysts. So no, I haven’t got an involved document to guide powersharing. Power-sharing and inclusive governance are two different formulations. For now, the new rulers have to begin with inclusive governance. That simple process means – do not allocate resources and make appointments that are in essence, incestuous pathways. The other half must feel that they are entitled to the assets that their country owns. Judge the relevance of the talent you want and access that talent without regard to race and party affiliation. Inclusive governance also means consulting with your adversaries across the aisle. They have constituencies that they have to cater for, and the rulers cannot and must not alienate them by ignoring the pleas from the other side of the aisle. The politics of accommodation also involves the reaching out to civil society and listening to their objections to your policies and legislation. I will avoid citing examples from the minority regime in 2011 and from the 2015 dispensation, but one compelling situation needs mentioning, because in internalizing the lessons from it, the new gov-
Frederick Kissoon ernment - whether PPP or APNU+AFC - can avoid these kinds of pitfalls.There was a group formed in 2013 to agitate for the monument to the 1823 slave uprising to be built on the site where the captured rebels were executed – Parade Ground. No section of the Indian, African, Amerindian communities in Guyana objected to this location. Only African-Guyanese showed an interest. It was a non-issue for Indians. All African– rights organizations insisted on Parade Ground. The Ramotar presidency erected the monument on an obscure site. The new government in a racially bifurcated nation cannot be that cruel and insensitive. All of us hope not. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
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Global Witness exposes…
Company awarded Congo oil project has links to leader’s family By Kemol King The award of an oil block, Ngoki, by the government of the Republic of Congo to a company called Petroleum Exploration and Production Africa (PEPA) has caused Global Witness to ring the alarm on the project, showing the world a series of risks the project could cause. Kaieteur News’ previous coverage on this matter explored how the project poses a serious environmental risk, not just to the African country, but to the world (http://tiny.cc/f2ntkz). This article explores the serious corruption risks of the project, as Global Witness has exposed links between the family of the President of the country, Denis Sassou Nguesso. The named director general of the PEPA is a man, Cyr Nguesso. The sources of Global Witness tell it that he is the nephew of President Sassou-Nguesso. Despite what appears to be a clear conflict of interest, PEPA’s owner wrote to Global Witness claiming that the director general was appointed after a “rigorous selection” and from his “rich experience” in the industry. Meanwhile, the head of the board of PEPA’s name is Claude Wilfrid “Willy” Etoka. The high profile businessman, also its major shareholder, boasts a series of companies in several countries which form what appears to be his very own empire. He is one of the richest men in Francophone Africa, the Global Witness said. Etoka’s connection to this project has raised heads for multiple reasons. Firstly, the anti-corruption watchdog said that he is a close associate of President Sassou-Nguesso, and that he is often seen with Denis Christel Sassou-Nguesso, the president’s son. The President’s son has been embroiled in several corruption scandals. Global Witness said that the closeness between Etoka and the family could form a serious conflict of interest, as Etoka could get a major advantage when it comes to vying for state contracts. The NGO spoke to one man who has knowledge of the Ngoki project, the former head of French oil company Elf, who the Global Witness noted was jailed years ago for involvement in a French scandal called the Elf Affair. His name is Loik le FlochPrigent, and he previously
Businessman, Claude Wilfrid “Willy” Etoka consulted on the Ngoki project. In an interview with Global Witness, the Frenchman said that Etoka works with the President’s son. Through all this, Global Witness reported that Etoka acknowledges his friendly links to the family, but says he doesn’t have any “business relationships” with them. But the NGO stated that his empire, spanning several industries include oil, agribusiness and manufacturing, was built on several handsome deals with the Congolese state. This includes a deal in 2016, giving Etoka the responsibility of privatizing 46 state-owned firms by brokering deals with international investors. Etoka also runs an oil trading company called SARPD Oil, which Global Witness said depends on the Congolese state. The company claims to control a majority of Congo’s fuel imports, serving the role of intermediary between the State’s oil company Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC), and major international oil traders. Global Witness said that the bulk of Etoka’s wealth is thanks to this company. The company’s operations have not stayed out of controversy, and its relationship with the State firm is questionable. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is reported to have warned about the lack of transparency of the SNPC’s trading operations meant it is a worrying corruption risk. On the side of SARPD Oil, Global Witness’s investigation found that the company’s most important lender, the French Bank BNP
Paribas, exited its relationship with the company, because it decided that it was too much of a corruption risk. Global Witness said the Bank was concerned about the lack of
President of the Republic of Congo, Denis Sassou Nguesso transparency surrounding SNPC’s selection of SARPD Oil over other suppliers to act as an intermediary for its trading. Etoka’s side of the story,
as he told Global Witness, was that the Bank broke up with the company because it had done a broader review of its relationships with commodities firms in
response to US sanctions. He claimed that SARPD’s profits, which the Bank recognised as too high for its fiscal regime, were made in “complete transparency”. He also fought back at concerns the awards to SARPD may not have been above board, by stating that the company was selected by SNPC in line with relevant regulations before the President’s son took on a role at the State oil company. These mentioned issues form only a fraction of the many corruption risks identified by Global Witness about Etoka. It states categorically from its accounts that Etoka keeps “disreputable company”. In a following update on this matter, Kaieteur News will explore a string of corruption scandals identified by global Witness that the Congolese President’s family has been embroiled in.
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Overseas-based Guyanese brothers launch NGO Several Guyanese within the Diaspora have been looking to invest here. Some of them have been directing their attention to social programmes aimed at enhancing and empowering
the fortunate within the land of their birth. Among those seeking to do so are two brothers – Gavin and Gary Alleyne - who provide Legal and Regulatory (AMLA/BSA) Compliance
services and an Operations Veteran with specialization in Finance and Process Optimization, respectively. The young men, who hail from the mining town of Linden, migrated to the
United States of America almost three decades ago. They are both aspiring to give back to the country in a tangible way. They have in fact been giving back over the years.
- set to target the less fortunate In so doing, they formally established a Non-Profit Organization – Centre for Guyanese Progress – which, according to Gavin, seeks to provide support and assistance to persons in need. Gary, who prior to leaving Guyana worked in the local banking sector and is now a senior executive in Corporate America, said that through the organization, some US$4,000 worth of girls and young ladies clothing are to be distributed. This distribution process, he said, will target a number of areas including Linden, Sophia, Skeldon and Central Georgetown. “We firmly believe that our young girls and women are important to national development and with so many ills, primarily affecting them, we are focusing heavily on giving back to them. As such, we decided that we secure several pieces of clothing to assist them in a meaningful way,” Gary added. He disclosed too that while they have been giving back for several years, the process is now being done in a more organized manner. “Over the years we have been coming and giving back, but recognizing the need for more assistance, we thought it best to have the NGO provide regular and significant support for several projects and programmes,” Gary disclosed. The Georgia Institute of Technology graduate said that the 52 Pere Street, Kitty, Georgetown-based NGO is currently considering several requests. He noted that while the focus has been on women and girls, the organization is eyeing projects and programmes that can address several social ills affecting boys and young men as well. “We haven’t forgotten boys and young men as we see the grave challenges and difficulties confronting them, especially when addressing interpersonal relationships. However, we have decided to start with girls and young women as they are ideal to start with,” he shared. In addition to empowering persons, Gary said that the NGO is hopeful that it will be able to address a number of social ills. “We have created this NGO with the sole intention of finding projects and/or programmes to aid Guyana’s progress. Our projects will help young people better their skills, education and
Gavin Alleyne
Gary Alleyne community development by creating opportunities to ensure that they take their positions in some of these big social domestic issues. We see violence against women, we see mental issues, we see the building up of social groups,” Gavin divulged. He said that there are several projects that the NGO will be executing and these will include some in the areas of sports, education and cultural. Even as the brothers spoke of their hearts and passion being forever focused on Guyana, they assured that they are truly committed to giving back. According to the brothers, in the coming months they will be executing several charitable and sportsrelated events with the primary objective of helping to enhance the lifestyles of those who are less fortunate. Gavin made it pellucid that giving back to those in need, especially women and young girls, is of paramount importance in the quest to reduce several social ills, and empowering those who will benefit from the opportunities being offered.
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Grenada prevents Chinese nationals from disembarking flight ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada - CMC – The Grenada government has confirmed that a chartered aircraft with a number of Chinese business people had been turned away from the island after two of the passengers on board had recently visited China and Singapore where the majority of the deaths associated with the coronavirus (COVID-19) had been recorded. “Grenada still has a travel restriction in place for anyone who was travelled there and so we had to act accordingly,” said Health Minister Nicholas Steele, adding that the aircraft had landed at the Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA). He did not give the date of the arrival, but said that the plane carried seven passengers who made a stop in Cape Verde before arriving here. “We are also on high alert in Grenada and the rest of the region and that also required us to be provided with additional information about the passengers when submitting manifest requirements and what we received guided us in making the decision to have them not disembark,” he added. The flight with its passengers continued on to Barbados which currently has no travel restrictions in place for the COVID-19 but provide screening for high temperature and other symptoms of all arriving passengers. This is the third chartered flight with Chinese business people to arrive in Grenada since the coronavirus became a global health concern.
Health Minister Nicholas Steele The passengers of the first two flights were allowed to disembark because they were not considered a health risk. The first came from Beijing and the second from Panama. It is not clear if they are on China state business with state officials or private sector representatives in the region. The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has called for a national plan of action to deal with the virus. “We remain concerned over the fact that commercial flights and private jet planes continue to land at the Maurice Bishop International Airport from nations with confirmed cases of COVID19. We firmly believe that the government of Grenada must institute a temporary, but immediate ban, on all flights and cruise ships arriving from countries with confirmed of COVID-19, with the exception of necessary transportation arrangements for the return of our Grenadian nationals from China,” the NDC said.
It warned that failure to do so could place greater at a higher risk “and could expose our citizens to the COVID-19 virus”. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health (MOH) says while Grenada has no recorded case of the virus for which there is no known virus and blamed for nearly 3,000 deaths worldwide, the island is now “on what is referred to as Importation Transmission Watch (ITW).”These include assessing exposure to risks, monitoring events in the region, and providing pre-travel training. Pre-trip risk assessment, education and preparation can markedly reduce the likelihood of an incident disrupting normal everyday life, trade and travel. One person while on a holiday/leisure or business trip can result in risk of transmission by virtue of contact importation,” the MOH said in a statement. It said that apart from mainland China, these include Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, and Italy. Health Authorities are also advising people to avoid non-essential travel to these areas, and are reminding those who choose to do so that on their return, they can be quarantined for a maximum of 14 days.“The MOH advises people who develop a fever, cough or shortness of breath within 14 days of visiting the above listed countries, to contact their family doctor and the Health authorities,” the statement said. Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell is due to address the nation later on Tuesday.
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Unoccupied building in NDIA Berbice compound gutted by fire FOR RENT Two bedroom apartment 14 Better Hope Railway ECD Tel# 617-3001 between 8am5pm SERVICES
FOR SALE
Visa Forms Preparer. Tel#626-7040, Publish your Death Annoucements & In Memoriams online. Email: dthmemo@gmail.com
320 Caterpillar completely refurbished. Contact # 2235273/223-5274
ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Thinking of buying & selling your property? Is your your rental property still vacant? Let’s connect you to clients. Call: 223-5555 Property Management Services. We help you buy, sell, rent & manage properties. Call us at #627-9685
Model M Bush Truck, Winch, GPP Series. Good condition for quick sale $2M #6887296/678-2216
DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL CALL: 225-7126 & 2263693 -DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL@ YAHOO.COM/ W W W . D O L L Y SAUTORENTAL.COM Higher Level Auto Rental Business Establishment. Contact # 698-4315 24 hrs Auto Rental AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL & TOW TRUCK SERVICE:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE#698-7807. DATING / PEN PAL Single man seeking woman, ages 35-55 for marriage or a long term relationship. Call: 600-0520 NOTICE I, Wilfred Rambarran have applied for a money changer license in the city of Georgetown.
Two bedroom apartment in Georgetown for decent working couple. Call: 619-2800 Space for Business, Hadfield, Saffon St, High Street Georgetown. Contact Ray’s Realty #627-9685
LAND FOR SALE Transported land 11.6 acres, Lot 15 Public Road #2 Village W.C.B/ce 5 mins from B/ce bridge.Contact#686-4818/6487109. 102 Good Hope, Mahaica. Land for sale. Length 500ft width 42 ft, Raod Side. Tel# 691-8420/227-1042 Eccles Front, Middle Rd La Penitence, Soesdyke, Moblissa, Dalgin 33 acres. Contact Ray’s Realty # 6279685
Business space & living quarter available for rent located @ 76 First Avenue Bartica (From 1500sq ft 8000sq ft) Contact:650-0402/ 603-1402
VACANCY R A Soda Factory, Rosignol Berbice #330-2399/656-7456/ 692-2981. Manager, Supervisor, Checkers Male & Female workers, Drivers for truck One Domestic. Contact# 2235273/223-5274
CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS & SUV'SCALL:643-5122./ 656-0087 WEB: WWW .PROGRESSIVEAUTORENTA L.COM
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 Suzuki Escudo.Excellent condition, Low Mileage (50,000Km).$3.4M Neg.Call #649-0956. 1 Allion PTT series new model for sale. Price $2,000,000. # 661-0075/682-5353 2010 Pitbull minibus, BWW Series, Good condition, Price Neg. $2.3M. Leonard #6103965 Toyota Avenis 2004 GYD$1,650,000 Call: 624-9100 neg PROPERTY FOR SALE
For Cook, must have food handling certificate and must be able to work unsupervised. Tel# 663-5404/690-9696 Vacancy for (1) Professional & Experienced Hairdresser & Nail Technicians @ Natural Beauty Salon & Spa. Located: Grove, East Bank Dem. #6525800 Deskstaff, Receptionist, 25-50 years old. 3 shift system #2250198 Office Assistant- Maths & English, Excel & Quickbooks. Apply to Mima Decor, 8 Sheriff St, G/town. Email: mimadecor12@gmail.com. Tel# 227-0186/227-0176
Republic Gardens, Albert, Durban, Broad St G/town, Enmore, Zeelot, Craig, Paradise. Contact Ray’s Realty #627-9685 WANTED Labourers for wood concession $5,000 per day. Call: 630-1831
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Experienced workers for land dredge. Tel# 672-3359
Experienced Pastry Maker/ Cake Decorator, Driver. Apply @ Hack’s Halaal Restaurant, 5 Commerce St.
Hire Car & Bus Drivers. 44 Route #225-3234/225-9223
1 Bodywork man. Call# 6687033
Firefighters late yesterday afternoon responded to a fire that took place at the NDIA Compound at Tarlogie, Corentyne, Berbice. Reports are that the in-
ferno may have been an act of arson. The building, which was unoccupied at the time, was completely destroyed. A source from the fire department has since revealed
that a person was reportedly seen running away from the scene shortly after the fire began. Investigations are in progress.
OAS repeats call for implementation... From page 7 poll come in. Results can be fed to the people as they come in so that people can be assured that the process is working and not being deliberately delayed to facilitate anything that would be inimical to the free expression of the will of the people.” In the 2015 report, the OAS Observer team lead by former Foreign Minister of Belize Lisa Shoman noted that while the results transmission process in Guyana contains careful safeguards in order to bolster the veracity and credibility of electoral results, the manual nature of the process is inherently time-consuming. VACANCY Interested in working at a Taxi service as a customer service representative/Dispatcher? Call #621-9356 Leading Pest Control Company requires 1.Salesperson, 2.Certified Pest Control Operators. Forward resume to shailaya@yahoo.com
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Miner remanded for allegedly ‘Otisha’ accused of killing coworker over stolen gold stealing $100,000 Twenty-six-year-old Emric Joseph was yesterday arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, after he was charged for the murder of his coworker. An unrepresented Joseph was not required to plead to the indictable charge which stated that on February 26, 2020 at Lime Tree Road, Black Water, Cuyuni, he murdered Compton Benjamin. According to the facts of
the charge, on the day in question, Benjamin and Joseph were at the mining camp where they worked together, when Joseph confronted Benjamin for a quantity of raw gold that he allegedly stole from him. The court heard that an argument ensued between the two men, this annoyed Benjamin who then picked up a wood and dealt Joseph a lash to his arm. Joseph then pulled out a knife and dealt Benjamin a stab to the left side
of his chest. Benjamin was taken to the Bartica Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The matter was reported and an investigation was launched. Joseph was later arrested and subsequently charged with murder. Chief Magistrate McLennan remanded Joseph to prison. The matter was adjourned to March 12, and transferred to the Bartica Magistrate’s Court.
Ganja smuggled from Berbice found in Charlestown bush The Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU) has arrested one person after a seizure of ganja in Charlestown yesterday morning. According to the unit, the 14.2 kilos were found in a clump of bushes in an abandoned yard. The seizure was reportedly made after intelligence was received that the ganja was The seized transported from Berbice. The area around Howes Street was ganja blocked off as CANU officers swept the area.
O
tis Pearson of 42 Station Street, Kitty, Georgetown, was yesterday granted bail after he denied stealing $100,000. The defendant appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Principal Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs Marcus. Pearson, popularly known as ‘Otisha’, pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on November 10, 2019 at Sandy Babb Street, Kitty, Georgetown, he robbed Dane Peters of $100,000, and immediately before or after the
robbery he used personal violence against Peters. No objection was made by the police prosecutor to bail being granted to the defendant; however, he asked that a condition be attached. Condition of the bail is that Pearson report to the Kitty Police Station every Friday until the hearing and determination of the trial. After listening to the prosecutor, Magistrate Marcus granted the defendant bail in the sum of $70,000 and the matter was adjourned to March 16.
Otis Pearson, popularly known as ‘Otisha’
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Suppliers want $12M for baggage West R/veldt man shot scanners at Guyana Prison Service while on his way home One notable project in- been breaches of the prisons, cluded the supply, delivery as ranks as well as civilians and installation of a baggage who would have taken illicit scanner at the Guyana Prison substances into the facilities. Service. This procurement of Hopefully, the installation of baggage scanners follows af- the baggage scanner helps to ter in recent times there have reduce this. Ministry of Public Security Supply, delivery and installation of a baggage scanner at the Guyana Prison Service (GPS)
Yesterday at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, 17 bids were opened for several projects at the Ministry of Finance’s office, at Main and Urquhart Streets, Georgetown.
A West Ruimveldt resident is now a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital, after he was shot while on his way home. The incident occurred on Monday around 22:40hrs. Relatives have identified the injured man as 25-year-old Richard Thompson of Lot 45 West Front Road. Kaieteur News understands that at the time of the incident, Thompson was about two corners away from his home when he was attacked and shot by an unknown individual who, according to Thomas,
exited a heavily-tinted white Toyota Premio. Thomas was shot in his abdominal area. He is said to be in a stable condition and is responding favourably to treatment. When Kaieteur News visited the injured man at the city hospital, Thompson stated that it was unclear to him why he was attacked, because he is not known to be someone with a bad character. The matter was reported to the police and an investigation has been launched
Sri Lankans charged for illegal entry Ministry of the Presidency- Department of Public Service (MoTP- DPS) Supply &Delivery of Cooked Meals
Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) Maintenance of air conditioning units
Floor care and janitorial services
Pest control services
Sanitation services
Collection and disposal of garbage services
Two foreigners were yesterday charged for entering Guyana illegally. They both pleaded guilty to the charge after it was read to them by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Aru Rugam, 36, and Preshawn Kumar, 26, both Sri
Lankan nationals, were fined $40,000 each, or in default will serve eight weeks’ imprisonment. The facts of the charge stated that on February 28, 2020, ranks at the Mabura Police Outpost conducted a stop and search exercise on a route 94 minibus heading to Lethem.
The police then checked the passports of the defendants and it was discovered that there were no entry stamps, showing that they entered Guyana legally. They were arrested and taken to the Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters, and were subsequently charged for the offence.
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Raisman lashes ‘offensive’ gymnastics... From page 27 is insufficient, arguing it releases too many individuals and organisations from further claims, including the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee and former USA Gymnastics chief Steve Penny. “It’s honestly offensive,” Raisman said Monday. “It shows they don’t care. They’re just trying to push it under the rug and hoping people will forget about it when they watch the Olympics this summer.” The 25-year-old, a member of the US women’s team which won gold at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics, has been backed by former team-mate Simone Biles, who has also voiced
dismay over the proposed settlement. - Biles anguish In a series of posts on Twitter on Saturday, Biles spoke of her anguish at the ongoing wrangling, accusing USA Gymnastics and US Olympic chiefs of failing to conduct an independent investigation into the scandal. “Ugh at the airport. Heading to team camp,” Biles wrote. “Still want answers from USAG and USOPC. Wish they BOTH wanted an independent investigation as much as the survivors & I do. Anxiety high. Hard not to think about everything that I DON’T WANT TO THINK ABOUT!!!” In a following post she
added: “Don’t THEY also want to know HOW everything was allowed to happen and WHO let it happen so it NEVER HAPPENS AGAIN? Shouldn’t people be held accountable? Who do I ask??? I’m torn at this point.” Both Raisman and Biles have said they were abused by Nassar, 56, who was jailed for life in 2018 for a catalogue of abuse involving more than 250 girls. Raisman, who in a tweet on Saturday accused USA Gymnastics and the US Olympic Committee of a “massive cover-up”, said the failure to obtain accountability over the scandal was “devastating”. “It’s incredibly draining.
Wednesday March 04, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) If you have a tendency to do a little too much dreaming, reality could catch up with you now. The time has come to react immediately, Aries.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Today's powerful astral phenomena will encourage you to develop your skill as a visionary, Libra, no matter what you do with your day.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Everyone has impulsively bought something without really thinking about it first. As far as you're concerned, it happens a little more often than it should. Have you looked at your closet full of the clothes you never wear?
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) It's time to get down to work. At the moment, you can't depend solely on your natural c r e a t i v i t y, spontaneity, imagination, and originality to get by.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You're in tune with the atmosphere around you today because of your tolerance, humanity, and the respect you have for everyone, no matter what their position in society or intellectual capacity. CANCER (June 21–July 22) If you tend to be a little anxious about solitude, Cancer, it doesn't necessarily mean you're dependent on the people close to you. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Sometimes it's hard for you to believe something unless you see it firsthand, Leo. However, the period you're in now may be pushing you to try and understand some of the mysteries on faith. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Love is in the air, Virgo! You may encounter some wonderfully passionate situations today. You're ready to live these marvelously rich and emotional experiences to the fullest.
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SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) What do you want? It isn't always easy to live with others. You may ask too much of the people close to you and not be able to stand it when they don't live up to your high expectations. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) It's possible you took a chance on someone who has disappointed you, Capricorn. You were especially tolerant and patient, but now it's time to finally settle things and put your cards on the table. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Have been letting yourself go lately? Now it's time to take better care of your body. This new initiative will make you feel happier and more ready to tackle life again. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Have you recently lost some faith in the future, Pisces? Isn't it time to do something about it, especially where your personal life is concerned? You could find the answers to these questions if you'd take a second look at the quality of your close relationships.
USA Gymnastics, United States Olympic Committee — they refused to take any accountability to address the issue, to figure out what went wrong.” “I personally would like to see USA Gymnastics and the United States Olympic Committee release all their documents and data because they are not doing that. They’re not answering our questions.” The outcry over the settlement comes with US gymnasts, including Biles, preparing for July’s Olympic Games in Tokyo. Raisman, who is now retired, spoke of her pride in her former team-mates’ preparations for the Olympics despite the settlement controversy. “I’ve been watching the gymnasts, and I’m really proud of them,” Raisman said. “I think that they’re doing an amazing job. I am heartbroken that this is still going on.”
Money, money, money: what’s... From page 26 said the greater threat was from the coronavirus spread itself. Last year, Japan hosted 31.9 million foreign visitors, who spent nearly 4.81 trillion yen ($43.1 billion). Nomura Securities had forecast consumption of 240 billion yen from event-related tourism in 2020, which it said would evaporate if the Olympics were cancel led. Citigroup Global Markets Japan economist Kiichi Murashima said a loss of events-related tourism alone would chip 0.2 percentage points off GDP growth in the July-September quarter against the previous quarter. But he said the chilling impact of the virus on an already struggling Japanese economy, and on global growth if the spread did not peak, meant Japan’s GDP could show zero or even negative growth in the JulySeptember quarter. A failure to contain the global spread of the virus, would scupper a scenario that sees Japan’s economy posting a V-shaped recovery after two quarters of negative growth through March, said Jesper Koll, a senior adviser at U.S. asset manager WisdomTree.
CWC - Rainy end to Windies campaign SYDNEY, Australia, CMC – Persistent rain forced the complete abandonment of West Indies’ final match of the Twenty20 World Cup against South Africa here yesterday. The inclement weather at Sydney Showground Stadium washed out the first game after Thailand had set Pakistan 151 to win, and then prevented the start of the feature game with West Indies seeking a win to compensate for their disappointment of missing out on the semi-finals. West Indies finished third in Group B with three points and a single win – a
seven-wicket verdict over minnows Thailand in their opening game of the tournament in Perth. The Caribbean side, the 2016 champions, then suffered a shock eightwicket loss to Pakistan in Canberra before going down by 46 runs to England last Sunday here, to be eliminated from semi-final contention. South Africa, meanwhile, topped Group B with seven points after finishing unbeaten and will be accompanied to the semifinals by England who ended second on six points. India and Australia advanced from Group A.
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Wednesday March 04, 2020
Exclusive: Motor racing - F1 cannot race if a team is denied entry due to virus, says Brawn SILVERSTONE, England (Reuters) - Formula One could not hold a world championship race in a country that denies access to any team due to coronavirus restrictions, motorsport managing director Ross Brawn said yesterday. Italy, home to the sport’s oldest, most glamorous and most successful team Ferrari, is one of the countries most affected by the epidemic with more than 50 deaths and over 2,000 confirmed cases. Some countries, including Vietnam which hosts its first ever grand prix on April 5, have imposed quarantine periods on anyone who has come from or been in Italy during a two-week period prior to entry. That has raised concern in some quarters about Ferrari’s ability to participate. “If a team is prevented from entering a country we can’t have a race. Not a Formula One world championship race, anyway, because that would be unfair,” Brawn told Reuters at a sponsorship signing with betting partner 188BET. “Obviously if a team
makes its own choice not to go to a race, that’s their decision. “But where a team is prevented from going to a race because of a decision of the country then it’s difficult to have a fair competition.” The Formula One season starts in Melbourne on March 15, with Bahrain the weekend after. The Chinese Grand Prix scheduled for Shanghai on April 19 has already been called off as a result of the virus. MotoGP canceled its opening round in Qatar this weekend after the Gulf state imposed quarantine on visitors arriving from Italy. Brawn said Formula One was negotiating with the Vietnamese health authorities. “They want the race to happen but also they’ve got to protect their population. So we’re looking at what solutions we can find to make sure everybody is comfortable with the arrangements,” he said. “There’s a lot of things going on at the moment and it changes on a day-by-day basis. It’s difficult to be
General view of the drivers lined up ahead of Pre Season Testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. (REUTERS/Albert Gea/File Photo) definitive now but we’re going to find solutions.” Brawn said the Australian authorities were happy to continue with their race and Formula One was cooperating on checks and measures. “It’s a very serious situation, so I don’t want to underplay it. But we’re trying to have races. We’ve got to
do them in a responsible way,” he added. “We’re minimizing the number of people in the paddock, we’re asking the teams to send a minimum number of people they need to a race,” he explained. There are also plans for a charter to take Formula One’s Italian contingent directly
from Melbourne to Bahrain, without anyone leaving the plane during any refueling stopover, and with screening on arrival. Apart from Ferrari, the Red Bull-owned AlphaTauri team are Italy-based as is tyre supplier Pirelli and brake maker Brembo. The Bahrain International Circuit said on Tuesday it was
putting in place “specific measures” for teams, administrators, broadcasters and media. It asked for the names and flight details of anyone who had visited or transited through a number of countries, including Italy, or who was planning to arrive via the United Arab Emirates.
Money, money, money: what’s at stake if Olympics fall victim to coronavirus TOKYO (Reuters) Concerns are swirling that Japan’s dream of hosting the Tokyo 2020 Olympics could be a fatality of the spread of the new coronavirus, jolting organizers, sponsors, and media firms who have spent billions of dollars in the runup to the event. International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach said late last month that the IOC was “fully committed” to holding the July 24-Aug. 9 Games on schedule, and a senior Japanese official told Reuters there was no “Plan B”. Below are the financial and economic factors at risk. OLYMPIC COSTS Organisers said in December the Games were expected to cost some 1.35 trillion yen ($12.35 billion), but that figure did not include an estimated three billion yen for moving the marathon and walking events from Tokyo to the northern city of Sapporo to avoid summer heat. Tokyo 2020’s budget is split between the organizing committee and local and national governments; the
People wearing protective face masks, following an outbreak of the coronavirus, are seen in front of the Giant Olympic rings at the waterfront area at Odaiba Marine Park in Tokyo, Japan, February 27, 2020. (REUTERS/Athit Perawongmetha//File Photo) IOC contributed more than $800 million. Organizers say the national government will have paid some 150 billion yen – mainly for funding a new National Stadium. Japan’s Board of Audit, however, put government spending between the bid in 2013 and 2018 at 1.06 trillion
yen ($9.81 billion), a discrepancy organizers attributed to differences in the definition of “Games-related” spending. SPONSORS The Tokyo 2020 Olympics have generated record domestic sponsorship revenues of more than $3 billion.
That does not include partnerships with Japanese companies Toyota (7203.T) , Bridgestone (5108.T) and Panasonic (6752.T), and others such as South Korea’s Samsung, who through a TOP sponsors programme, have separate deals with the IOC worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
INSURANCE Global insurers face a hefty bill if the coronavirus forces the cancellation of the Games, with estimates of the cost of insuring the showpiece running into billions of dollars. The IOC takes out about $800 million of protection for each Summer Games, which covers most of the roughly $1 billion investment it makes in each host city. Insurance sources estimated it would pay a premium of about 2-3%, giving a bill of up to $24 million to insure the Tokyo event. Analysts with the financial services firm Jefferies estimate the insured cost of the 2020 Olympics at $2 billion, including TV rights and sponsorship, plus $600 million for hospitality. MEDIA NBCUniversal in December announced it had already sold more than $1 billion in advertising commitments in its planned U.S. broadcasts of the Games and was on track to surpass $1.2 billion, Variety reported. The company’s parent, Comcast, agreed to pay $4.38 billion for U.S. media rights to four Olympics from 2014 to 2020, Variety said.
D i s c o v e r y Communications, the parent of television channel Eurosport, has agreed to pay 1.3 billion euros ($1.4 billion) to screen the Olympics from 2018 to 2024 across Europe. During a recent call with investors, Gunnar Wiedenfels, Discovery’s chief financial officer, suggested a cancel led Olympics was “not going to have any adverse impact on our financials”, Variety reported, adding executives said the company had insurance to safeguard its investment. HIT TO JAPAN’S ECONOMY Most of the domestic spending on the Olympics has been done, so a cancellation would have minimal impact in that regard, economists said. A Bank of Japan study in 2016 estimated Games-related spending would peak at 0.6% of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2018 and be less than 0.2% of GDP in 2020, research consultancy Capital Economics noted. Tourism, a major contributor to recent Japanese growth, could take a hit, although economists (Continued on page 25)
Wednesday March 04, 2020
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NBA roundup: Heat improve to 2-0 vs. Bucks The host Miami Heat held reigning NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo to 13 points and became the first team to beat the Milwaukee Bucks twice this season, winning 105-89 on Monday night. Miami is 2-0 against Milwaukee, which has the best record in the NBA at 529. The Heat have struggled on the road (13-18) but have the third-best home record in the league (26-4). Miami got 18 points apiece from Jae Crowder and Jimmy Butler, and Bam Adebayo added 14 points and 13 rebounds. Antetokounmpo was removed from the game with 4:33 left in the fourth quarter as Miami had a 15-point lead. His 13 points tied his season low. He made just 6 of 18 shots from the floor, including 0 of 4 from 3-point range. He had three assists and a game-high 15 rebounds. Chicago Bulls 109 - Dallas Mavericks 107 Otto Porter Jr. scored 18 points in his first action since
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) battles for a rebound with Miami Heat forward Bam Adebayo (13) in the fourth quarter at American Airlines Arena. (Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports) November, and Chicago held on to edge visiting Dallas. Porter shot 7 of 11 from the field in his return from a broken foot that caused him to miss 51 games. He played 17 minutes. Coby White
scored 19 points to lead Chicago, and Denzel Valentine finished with 17. Tim Hardaway Jr. paced the Mavericks with 26 points, and Luka Doncic had 23. Dallas pulled to 108-107
England replace handshakes with fist bumps over coronavirus fears
when Dorian Finney-Smith made a 3-pointer with 4.9 seconds left. Finney-Smith had just connected from beyond the arc with 15.3 seconds remaining. Chicago’s Wendell Carter Jr. made one of two free throws on the next possession, and Doncic missed a desperation heave at the buzzer. New York Knicks 125 Houston Rockets 123 Julius Randle’s free throw with 4.6 seconds left sealed host New York’s victory over Houston. RJ Barrett tied a career high with 27 points and Randle finished with 16 points and 16 rebounds for the Knicks, who raced to a
21-point, first-half lead before staving off a furious rally by the Rockets. New York’s Mitchell Robinson added 12 points and 13 rebounds. James Harden had 35 points and went 16 of 16 from the free-throw line for the Rockets, who had their sixgame winning streak snapped. Russell Westbrook scored 24 points, his 31st straight 20point effort, but missed a potential game-tying jumper at the buzzer. Portland Trail Blazers 130 - Orlando Magic 107 CJ McCollum matched his season high with 41 points, leading Portland to a victory at Orlando. Playing without injured All-Star sidekick Damian Lillard (groin), McCollum shot 14 of 24 overall and 6 of 12 on 3-point attempts en route to the second-most points scored in Orlando by a Magic opponent this season. James Harden had 54 points at Orlando in December. Nikola Vucevic countered with a team-high 30 points for Orlando, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the Magic from losing their second straight after a three-game winning streak. Memphis Grizzlies 127 Atlanta Hawks 88 Gorgui Dieng and Jonas Valanciunas posted doubledoubles to lead a balanced Memphis attack as the visiting Grizzlies trounced Atlanta. Dieng had 17 points and
10 rebounds, his ninth double-double of the season, and Valanciunas had 15 points and 15 rebounds, his 30th double-double of the season and his fourth in a row. The Grizzlies had nine players score in double figures in claiming the first game of a three-city road trip. Trae Young scored a teamhigh 19 points for the Hawks, but he sank only 5 of 17 shots from the floor. Utah Jazz 126 - Cleveland Cavaliers 113 Bojan Bogdanovic scored 16 of his 28 points in the first half to help visiting Utah defeat injury-riddled Cleveland. Bogdanovic highlighted his performance with five 3pointers for the Jazz, who shot 56.6 percent from the field and 48.8 percent from beyond the arc. Rudy Gobert collected 20 points and nine rebounds for Utah. Collin Sexton scored a career-high 32 points for the Cavaliers, who have lost three in a row overall and nine straight against Western Conference teams. Indiana Pacers 116 - San Antonio Spurs 111 Malcolm Brogdon scored 26 points and T.J. Warren 23 as Indiana defeated host San Antonio to win its fourth straight game. Myles Turner added 17 points for the Pacers, who have won six of their past seven games. Patty Mills led the Spurs with 24 points off the bench while Trey Lyles added 20. (Field Level Media)
Raisman lashes ‘offensive’ gymnastics abuse deal
England’s Ben Stokes and Joe Root celebrate as they shake hands with South Africa’s Vernon Philander after winning the second test. (REUTERS/Mike Hutchings) (Reuters) - England players will not be shaking hands on their tour of Sri Lanka and will use fist bumps instead to greet each other following the coronavirus outbreak, skipper Joe Root said. Root’s team were laid low by flu and gastroenteritis in South Africa and are cautious following the coronavirus outbreak that has killed over 3,000 people and infected more than 89,000 globally. “After the illnesses that swept through the squad in South Africa, we are well aware of the importance of
keeping contact to a minimum,” Root told reporters before flying to Sri Lanka on Monday night for a two-test series. “We’ve been given some really sound and sensible advice from our medical team to help prevent spreading germs and bacteria.” “We are not shaking hands with each other – using instead the well-established fist bump – and we are washing hands regularly and wiping down surfaces using the antibacterial wipes and gels we’ve been given in our immunity packs.”
England will play the first of their two practice matches from Saturday before the first test in Galle from March 19 while Colombo hosts the second test from March 27. Sri Lanka confirmed the first case of coronavirus in the country in January but Root expected the tour to go on as planned. “There is no suggestion that the tour will be affected. But, of course, it is an evolving situation so we are in regular contact with the authorities and will proceed as advised,” added the Yorkshire player.
Los Angeles (AFP) Olympic gold medallist Aly Raisman lashed out on Monday at a settlement put forward by USA Gymnastics for the Larry Nassar abuse scandal, describing the proposals as “offensive” to survivors of the jailed team doctor’s crimes. In an interview with NBC television’s Today morning news show, Raisman accused USA Gymnastics of attempting to prevent release of details which would show how Nassar was able to abuse athletes for years. Raisman’s criticism followed reports last month that a tiered settlement system would be used to pay damages to Nassar’s victims, with payments ranging from $82,550 to $1.25 million. However attorneys for hundreds of women abused by Nassar have said the deal (Continued on page 25)
Sexual abuse survivor from the Larry Nassar sexual abuse case Aly Raisman (second left) says a proposed settlement by USA Gymnastics is ‘offensive’ (AFP Photo/Alex Wong)
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Wednesday March 04, 2020
Coronavirus epidemic stalls women’s National TT team By Calvin Chapman Guyana national women’s senior National Table Tennis that was selected by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) to participate in the 2020 World Teams Table Tennis Championships scheduled for the 22nd to 29th of this month in Buscan, South Korea, will have to wait until June since the Coronavirus epidemic has forced the organisers to postpone the
games. President of the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA), Godfrey Munroe, during an invited comment with Kaieteur Sport, noted that, “Although the event has been postponed until June, a question mark remains whether the competition will actually get underway. We at the GTTA are monitoring the situation but whatever decision we make it
will be in the best interests of our players.” There have been reports in the media about a possible postponement of marquee sport events this year including the summer Olympic Games that are scheduled for Tokyo, Japan, along with the rescheduling of the UEFA Nations championship that is scheduled to be played in stadiums located in Germany, Netherlands, England and
Azerbaijan. Moto GP’s seasonopening race in Qatar, which was due to take place this weekend, and its second round of the championship in Thailand, have both been struck from the calendar. Replacement dates for the events have not been announced. It is a disappointing occurrence for the sport locally since Munroe had explained that, “This
(proposed participation) is significant for the Guyana’s table Tennis brand because while male and female players have represented Guyana at the singles edition of the world table tennis championships in 2003, 2005 and 2013, Guyana has never had a representative national team male or female participating. This is a first for
Guyana.” The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) vicePresident posited noted that the team championships would have served as a great preparation for the continental Olympic trials scheduled for April 14th to 19th next in Argentina but alternative measures will have to be taken.
Godfrey Munroe
Guyana complete IBFAntilles under-18 3x3 basketball programme The Antilles3x3 Hoops Final was held over the weekend in Guadeloupe. In line with the International Basketball Foundation’s (IBF) Basketball For Good strategy, the project’s main objective was to initiate social impact in the region. 68 youths from 10 countries of the region took part in the 3-day event along with a Youth Leader and a 3x3 coordinator from each country. The youths were selected through national qualifying events in which over 1000 players participated. The event was made up of a Youth Leadership and Life skills workshop and a 3x3 mixed nations basketball tournament. The workshop was facilitated by 3x3 Unites; an NGO specialized in teaching youth to use 3x3 basketball for community building and to become role models and leaders in their local communities. The workshop took place all day Friday as well as Saturday and Sunday morning. The players, Youth Leaders and 3x3 coordinators all took part and learned how
to use the leadership tools that you can gain from basketball on the court in your everyday life. The participants were able to learn about the IBF’s Basketball For Good mindset and encouraged to think about how Basketball can be used as a tool to influence positive change in their lives and in their communities. On Friday, the players were put into mixed nations team in order to create links between the different countries of the region. To play together, the youths were able to overcome cultural and language barriers while building lasting friendships. Guyana’s Timothy Richmond, the male ‘Basketball for Good’ award winner, explained that it was an, “Astonishing pleasure to be able to feel the culture and foreign lifestyle of a new soil and new people.” Games were played on Saturday and Sunday with a great atmosphere and the mixed nations format allowed youths from 9 of the 10 countries present to play in the finals.
Wednesday March 04, 2020
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Cyclists held like hostages in UAE - team chief
Cofidis riders have been holed up in their hotel in Abu Dhabi over a coronavirus scare. (AFP/Giuseppe Cacace) The head of a French cycling team quarantined in Abu Dhabi since last week’s aborted UAE Tour said yesterday riders felt like victims of a “hostage-taking”. Most of the 20 teams who took part in last week’s UAE Tour, cut short after two
Italian officials tested positive for the coronavirus, have been allowed to leave Abu Dhabi. But three teams, Cofidis and Groupama-FDJ of France and Russian outfit Gazprom, have been held in quarantine on one floor of their Abu
Dhabi hotel since the race ended Thursday. A fourth team, UAE Emirates, has opted to stay behind voluntarily. Thierry Vittu, the Cofidis president who is with the team in the hotel, said it was like a “hostage-taking”.
“We are being held against our will at a place which is not of our choosing and for an unknown period of time,” he said on Facebook. “That last part is the worst to deal with.” Several sources said the three teams were being held in quarantine
because a person on the same floor in the hotel had tested positive for the virus. “We are treated as if we have the plague, our rooms haven’t been made up in five days and we have to go to the lift to pick up sheets, soap and towels,” said Vittu.
Some members of the Cofidis team were struggling to cope with the conditions, he said. UAE authorities have said they are awaiting the outcome of a second series of tests before allowing the teams to depart.
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Daniel Sturridge handed worldwide ban NBC Sports - Daniel Sturridge has been banned from playing worldwide until June 2020 and fined $190,000 for breaching betting regulations. The former Liverpool striker had his contract mutually terminated with Turkish side Trabzonspor on Monday and now it is clear why. Sturridge, 30, was found guilty of breaching the FA’s gambling regulations ( he had provided his brother with
“inside information” over a bet regarding a possible transfer to Sevilla) and was handed a two-week ban last July. However, the English FA thought that punishment by an independent regulatory commission was too lenient and appealed the decision. Hence why Sturridge is now banned until Jun. 17, 2020. In a statement posted on their website on Monday the FA revealed that FIFA have now issued a worldwide ban
on Sturridge: “Daniel Sturridge has been suspended from all football and football-related activity from today until the end of 17 June 2020. Following an appeal by the FA of the previous findings of the independent regulatory commission in this case, an independent appeal board has found that the regulatory commission misapplied the FA’s rules in relation to the use of inside information and made
findings of fact which could not be sustained. “As a result, the appeal board has found proven two further charges which were originally dismissed. Other factual findings of the regulatory commission were left undisturbed. In relation to the sanction, the appeal board agreed with the FA that the penalty originally imposed on Mr Sturridge was unduly lenient and therefore increased his effective playing ban from
two weeks to four months. The appeal board also doubled the fine to £150,000.
FIFA has confirmed that the suspension will be of worldwide effect.”
Daniel Sturridge
Caribbean 16 and 17-year-olds standing out at CU20W CONCACAF - SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – There is no doubt that there is always an abundance of young talent on display at the Concacaf Under-20 Women’s Championship. Yet in the 2020 edition, which is currently being held in the Dominican Republic, some of the youngest Caribbean players in the tournament have become the biggest stories. Look no further than CUW20 leading scorer Melchie Dumornay of Haiti. At age 16, the MF is already appearing in her second CUW20 and tops the scoring table with 10 goals. At age 14, Dumornay scored the winning goal for Haiti in a 3-2 win over Costa Rica in the 2018 Concacaf Women’s Under-20 Championship, helping Haiti ultimately qualify for the 2018 FIFA Women’s Under-20 World Cup. Dumornay isn’t the only 16-year-old Haitian player making waves at the CUW20. Valentina Ornis, who is also 16, has seven goals thus far in the competition, including
braces in the group stage wins over Cayman Islands (8-0) and Trinidad and Tobago (7-0), and a hat trick in the 12-0 triumph over Barbados in the Round of 16. Jamaica have rolled into the quarterfinals thanks in large part to the exploits of 17-year-old Jody Brown. The Reggae Girlz FW has eight goals in the tournament, scoring in all four games for Jamaica, including four goals in the 9-1 Round of 16 win versus Bermuda. One can only wonder where Trinidad and Tobago would be without 17-yearold FW Afyiah Cornwall, who has poured in seven goals in the CUW20. Cornwall scored four goals in the Soca Warriors’ opening 6-0 win against Saint Kitts and Nevis, and also had a brace in the Round of 16 tie with Puerto Rico, which ended in a 5-4 penalty shootout win for Trinidad and Tobago, with Cornwall scoring the decisive spot kick. These four players are showing that the future bright for women’s football in Haiti, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.
Wednesday March 04, 2020
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Hope says he didn’t do enough in ODI series but looks forward to T20s
K
A N D Y, S r i Lanka, CMC – Despite being the West Indies’ lead scorer in two of the three matches in the just concluded ODI series, Shai Hope has lamented that he did not do enough to give his side a desired victory over Sri Lanka. Hope made 238 runs at average of 79.3 runs per innings in the three-match series, top-scoring in the first match with 115 and again in the third with 72. He put 51 on the board in the second match against the hosts. But speaking to the media after West Indies lost their last contest to suffer a whitewash at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium here on Sunday night, the 26-year-old wicket-keeper/batsman said he wanted to do more as his team tried to record its first series win on Sri Lankan soil. “I feel as if I’m not
scoring enough runs. I’m just trying to do my job for the team,” said Hope, who was on the field more than any other player in the series. “My job is to bat long and score runs and it’s unfortunate that we couldn’t get the wins in this series. They say there’s a learning curve for everything, so hopefully we can learn from this as quickly as possible and move on from there.” Hope also acknowledged that, overall, the West Indies “didn’t play the crucial moments well”, especially in the first and last contests. “Cricket is one of those games where you have to grasp those game-changing moments and we didn’t do that; I think Sri Lanka did that pretty well. So that’s one thing that I can highlight for this series and going forward, that is one thing we should really point out as a team,” he added. As the Caribbean men prepare for their T20
International series which will also be played here – the first match today and the second on Friday – they will be hoping to put the series loss behind them and learn from their mistakes. “ We j u s t h a v e t o continue believing in what we know we can do and what the team can achieve. We’ve done enough to get here and we just need to tick a few more boxes to get us across that line,” Hope said. “We’ve had a decent run of form in the past few ODI tours that we’ve had. So yes, it’s a 3-0 loss and a setback for us, but there’s a lot to look forward to. We can say we ticked some boxes in this series, but having said that, there’s a lot that we can work on. So, we’re looking forward to see what we have in store for the next series.” The squad will be looking to build momentum towards the ICC T20 World Cup which will be played in
Australia later this year. Included are dynamic all-rounders Dwayne Bravo and Andre Russell who played vital roles when the West Indies won the World Cup under captain Daren Sammy in 2012 and again in 2016. Hope said he was pleased to be back in the T20 squad and hoped to learn from the duo. “I played one game against the Afghanistan team in India and I always want to play every format if I can. I’m just glad to be here again. They’ve [Russell and Bravo] been playing T20 cricket for however long now, and they have a heap of experience. I’m sure that the guys coming up, the new ones in the team, like myself, we can get some knowledge from them and hopefully they can continue doing what they do best and we can win this series coming up,” he said.
Wicket-keeper batsman Shai Hope
68 youths from 10 countries including Guyana of the region took part in the 3-day event.
Guyana complete IBF-Antilles under-18 3x3 basketball programme t r Spo Trenace Lowe and Jody-Ann Blake (right)
Coronavirus epidemic stalls women’s National TT team
Hope says he didn’t do enough in ODI series but looks forward to T20s CWC - Rainy end to Windies Caribbean 16 and 17-yearcampaign olds standing out at CU20W Jody Brown of Jamaica (left) has eight goals in the tournament and Melchie Dumornay of Haiti is already appearing in her second CUW20 and tops the scoring table with 10 goals. (Photo: Mexsport/ Concacaf)
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