Kaieteur News

Region Four K NEWS declaration - CJ orders return to unlawful vote tabulation process AIETEUR

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

Thursday Edition March 12, 2020 - Vol. 13 No. 10

p. Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 3 readership yesterday 219,190

Guyana records first coronavirus case - victim died yesterday after arriving recently from NY p.

11

irus v a n Coroictim: v na Rat lall o Babo

Presence of all officials entitled to witness vote tabulation not necessary

p.

8

- Chief Justice Roxane George

Former Deeds Registrar fined $4.5M on fraud charge p.

8

Cops seek Cuban national for strangling of Bourda woman Four charged with Rose Hall businessman's murder p.

19

p.

16

Oil price war could slow

ExxonMobil's projects

p.

7

- Charles Ramson Jr.

Kaieteur News

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Thursday March 12, 2020

Jamaica announces 2nd coronavirus case

N

E W S D AY Jamaica's Health and We l l n e s s M i n i s t e r D r Christopher Tufton has announced the country's second confirmed case of the novel coronavirus, covid19.

The second case is reportedly an employee of the US embassy in Jamaica and staffers have been advised to self-quarantine.

Tu f t o n s h a r e d t h e information on social media yesterday and said he would provide an update later.

On Tuesday, Tufton confirmed the country's first

case, a woman who had recently returned from the United Kingdom.

Jamaica is the fifth Caribbean country to report confirmed cases, and the first English-speaking country in the region to do so. Tufton described the latest case as "imported."

In Trinidad and Tobago, 42 people have been tested for the virus with negative results.

Personal hygiene measures are effective to protect yourself and your loved ones from covid19. * Wash your hands properly with soap and water * Use an alcohol-based

hand sanitiser if water and soap are not available * Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when

you cough or sneeze * Dispose of tissue immediately after using * Cough and sneeze into

the crook of your elbow if you do not have a tissue * Avoid touching your face

* Stay home if you are ill * Avoid close contact with people who have flulike symptoms

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 12, 2020

PAGE 03

Region Four declaration - CJ orders return to unlawful vote tabulation process C

hief Justice (ag) Roxane George yesterday issued an order for the Returning Officer (RO) for District Four, Clairmont Mingo, to return to the legally prescribed procedure for tabulating the votes for the Region, after she deemed the previously declared results unlawful.

The Chief Justice (CJ) ordered Mingo to return to the process by 11:00 hours today.

The ruling follows proceedings filed by Reaz Holladar, a private citizen who challenged the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on the grounds that the RO failed to comply with the electoral procedure prescribed by Section 84 of the Representation of the People Act. The Act in question outlines a process whereby the tabulation of the votes is done in the presence of certain persons required to be there.

The applicant's case led

by Trinidadian Senior Counsel Douglas Mendes, backed by a team of People Progressive Party/Civic lawyers, asked the Court to examine the fact that Mingo's declaration for District Four relates to the tabulation of 421 of the 879 Statements of Poll (SoPs).

The arguments proffered to the Court is that based on the affidavits provided, the declaration made was based on calculations of an elections clerk and not the RO himself.

Mendes noted that “The votes were processed in Mr. Mingo's absence after he took ill and was rushed to the hospital. When he returned, all the data had been inputted into a computer by Ms. Miller and other clerks who

assisted her. Ms. Miller had supervised the data entry process.”

He said that Section 86 (1) of the aforesaid Act states that the Returning Officer can decide which elections officer can assist him.

However, the lawyer qualified that Ms. Miller did not fall into that category and as such could not be designated to perform such duties by the Returning Officer.

Senior Counsel Neil Boston, representing Mr Mingo, argued that the Returning Officer can adopt whatever methodology he decides he will pursue to come up with the results.

Boston said the Returning Officer can sit with the persons who are entitled to be there and he will go through the Statements of Poll or he can prepare a spreadsheet from the Statements he has, and th er eaf ter d eclar e th e amount of votes received by each party.

He claimed that his client complied substantially with the law in this regard.

NON –COMPLIANCE In her ruling yesterday, Chief Justice George agreed that there was substantial non-compliance on Mingo's part as it related to the procedure required by Section 84 of the Representation of the People Act. Citing the submissions made, the Judge stressed that it was pellucid that the affidavits filed in support of the applicant motion cast doubt on the work of the elections commission.

Pursuant to Section 84(1) of the Act, Justice George asserted that the Returning Officer shall, “in the presence of such of the

Chief Justice Roxane George

Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo (left) and Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield persons entitled to be there” as stated in Section 86(1) of the Act, ascertain the total votes cast in favour of the each list by adding up the votes recorded in accordance with the Statements of Poll provided before declaring the total amount of votes cast in each district.

Further she noted that Section 86 (1) lists the persons who shall be present at the counting of the votes as the Returning Officer, elections officers appointed by the RO to assist him with the counting, elections officers, duly appointed candidates, counting agents, and others with good reason.

In the context of these elections, the CJ noted the latter group may include the

Region Four RO's office to open at 9:30 this morning

G

uyana Elections Commission ( G E C O M ) Public Relations Officer Yolanda Ward told the press yesterday that District Four Returning Officer (RO) Clairmont Mingo's office will reopen at 9:30 am today, in light of yesterday's High Court ruling.

The office located in

Ashmin's building, Hadfield & High Streets, Georgetown, had been shut down for several days following the now vitiated declaration the RO made days ago.

In a ruling yesterday, Chief Justice Roxane George ruled that the Returning Officer breached the Representation of the People A ct w h en h e mad e a

declaration of the region's general and regional elections without following the legally mandated procedure. Now, he must go back to the tabulation process.

Ward said that Mr. Mingo will advise today whether he has decided to restart the process or continue from where it was left off.

local and International observers. For officials in the context of GECOM, the CJ specified that this meant the Chief Elections Officer, Deputy Chief Elections Officer and polling agents.

However this process was not followed and the CJ noted “It is hardly any secret that there have been significant irregularities presumed or real in the electoral process.”

“Serious doubt,” Justice George noted, still remains,

and the public demands answers.

She stressed therefore that the role of the elections commission and its staff is to take such action as appears necessary to ensure impartiality, fairness and compliance with the provision of the constitution and any other Acts of Parliament.

“In the present volatile situation which pervades the country, no effort must be spared to ensure the process was fair and impartial.

“The lingering doubts that hang like the sword of Damocles over the heads of the commission must be removed and confidence in the electoral process must be restored.”

STRICT ORDERS Consequentially, the CJ granted several orders setting aside the declaration made for district four.

The CJ noted that “The declaration made on March

5, 2020 by the Returning Officer for District Four of the total votes cast for District Four was unlawful and in breach of Section 84(1) of the Representation of the People Act and is hereby vacated and set aside.”

She said too that any act done pursuant to the said declaration is hereby deemed null and void and of no effect “Subject to my admonition as regards the role of persons entitled to be present and attend, the Returning Officer and/or the Deputy Returning Officer must comply with Section 84(1) in ascertaining the total votes cast in favour of each list and the public declaration of votes so recorded for each list of candidates.”

Further, the Judge noted that GECOM cannot lawfully declare the results of March 2nd, 2020 general (continued on page 7)

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Kaieteur News

Thursday March 12, 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

The world is reeling Price war, a disease of warlike proportions, and a prediction that might as well be a declaration of war on Guyana’s immediate economic future. There is this convergence of circumstances that points to the suddenly precarious position of the embryonic Guyana’s oil economy.

The very things fought over - the money and power have now assumed temporarily the trapped look of a deer in the headlights. Still, we remain uninterested, even paralyzed, due to our own internal wars here over who won, will win, and who should have won.

In view of what is unfolding with racing swiftness in the world at large - the real world -the streams of returns anticipated, for at least this year, look beyond reach and with increasing certainty.

The Saudis have gone on the offensive and taken aim at price, in an effort to remove the profit incentive from the competition and bring it to its knees. The end objective is be rid of those thorns in the gullet and resume comfortable command of the oil markets, oil supply, oil prices, and the world of oil. There is some good news behind the current dark oil clouds for Guyana, but it would not be forthcoming anytime soon.

We are going to have to wait, as in empty-handed, with nothing to show for the barrels per day of production that leave these shores.

It appears that the next couple of quarters, maybe the whole of 2020, are now lost to sharp volatility, mainly downward, being experienced in the world markets, and as evidenced in crumbling price futures.

With prices in the lower $30 a barrel range, American shale producers are reeling, debt weighs heavily. Now if their supply is no longer profitable and has to be severely curtailed, which looks high likely, then there would be some upward movement in prices from the bottom, which has not been reached.

No less an authority than Goldman Sachs has sounded the loud gong of $20 a barrel, which would be the pits for Guyanese and their hopes and dreams, the same ones over which we are battling bitterly. Let us hold off for a moment on the contemplations and implications of the unthinkable of $20 a barrel.

Even at $30 a barrel, there is little, if anything, by way of upside entries in the accounting ledgers on our behalf.

The point is that while we are devastating ourselves locally over elections impasses, what is happening on the international front is transforming - at least for the near future of the rest of the year and beyond - our oil into a near useless presence, contributor, and asset. And still we continue with our untroubled Titanic moment, while the world crashes around us. To repeat what is now well known, COVID-19 has decimated demand. Gasoline is below $3 a gallon in the US, but workers and drivers are forced to stay home, whole communities under lockdown, and countries in Europe signaling their intentions to close their borders and take drastic protective actions.

Airlines are under siege with travel demand plummeting, and with this being the depressing picture in society after society, and sector after sector, the demand for oil at any price continues to diminish.

Inventories pile up as a standstill intensifies its widening presence. Oversupply is the understatement of the day, which means further price compression and which, in turn, extends the bad news for Guyana. But we continue to rage at each other unthinkingly and dilute the potential for prospering from the petroleum properties that abound.

We are unhearing of and unheeding to the fact that that over which we devour each other loses some of the glitter that mesmerizes us, like Midas, into madness. We are turning one another into golden monuments of utter stupidity. The evidence is there and so, too, are the strains and cracks that are making themselves more visible, more obvious.

The world of oil promises to remain sharply choppy in the months ahead. The world of Guyana currently presents the same picture of stormy upheavals for the near and intermediate future, with little end in sight. Settling elections controversies will not put an end to anything. Unlike oil in the long run, our upswing towards the positive looks remote.

May God in his mercy grant us his saving grace DEAR EDITOR, Beneath the surface calm of tense watching and impatient waiting, I detect that there are massive undercurrents of matters creeping-perhaps, already firmly positioned-towards the worst, most unaffordable place that we could find ourselves in at this hard, ominous hour. The reports from the ground confirm these in most alarming terms.

I caution that we are going down a bad road, one from which reversal and return may be taken out of our hands because by then it may too late.

I owe a strong duty to family, community, and country to be careful and circumspect in what I present today, to be responsible and sensible. My choice of words is going to be even more subtle than usual. Both sides appear to be gearing up for what they may be unable to manage, or control, should the dams of provocation and anticipation succumb to the unrelenting pressures to which they are subject.

There are no naïve ones or no innocents in this regard; and this is applicable equally to both sides of the now insoluble political equation, and at the levels of headmen and field superintendents and foot followers. There is none that can pretend to not be so alert, so committed, so

ready to engage in what could lead to the brink of the self-defeating.

In many communities, there is an edge, a nervous energy that cannot be concealed, with different groups approaching and testing to ascertain how much could be gotten away with right now.

There is assembling in small teams to rouse up the likeminded and push the uncommitted; there is congregating of larger groups, well and appropriately attired, in postures that are of warning, of intimidation, and of serious intents.

Some of this readiness is not in private, but in full public view, as in villages and out on widely used thoroughfares. The tensions are palpable, the fevers that grip could be felt from a distance. The body temperatures and body languages are unmistakable: we are ready, we stand poised to take things to the next steps.

That step, none of them, bodes well for the wider wellbeing of this stricken society. There is a strain of eagerness, a tangible reckless, an undeniable dangerousness that courses through the words expressed, the attitudes exhibited, and the passions put on display.

All of this is occurring in different camps throughout this country, against the

backdrops and the mechanics-maybe the motions-of High Court review, calls for adherence to this or that process, and insistence on or rejection of one or another forms of tabulation, making the rounds. I am asking myself if, in the larger picture, the grand scheme of things relative to Elections 2020, these exercises in protocol and escalations do mean anything authentic. If, at the cores of the competing ambitions and visions that collide within the increasingly narrow confines of time and space, that there is any interest left in exploring what is available for providing some civilized and restraining redress. To be frank, I do not think so.

Although I wish that they were genuine, I cannot help but interpreting and believing that what we have, at present, are the compounding interludes and the structured movements that are precursors to the inevitable.

For as I have long been saying in every forum, and at every opportunity, there cannot be two winners, there is no such thing as a tie. It is imperative, therefore, that the greatest degree of patriotism, of statesmanship, dominate our thinking, our outlooks, and our proceedings. Yet I sense, also, that I am screaming into the wind through appeals that return

rapidly to plaster me with my unacceptable exhortations, which bounce off the hardest of heads and the coldest of minds. Nobody from any side has any interest; none manifests the least sign of receptivity to such overtures.

And that is what has seized us by the scruffs of our political leaderships (and supporters) necks and shakes us into the hysterias and frenzies that have been compelled to beat a momentary tactical retreat.

In view of what I hear, what I see and sense, and what has come to me, I believe that we are already standing on a road that cannot bear the accumulated weights of emotions and expectations.

Something has to give, and the direction which looks most likely is what I find extremely troubling. This I don’t like. Regrettably, this is where I think that all roads lead.

I am hoping against hope that some last minute sanity, some iota of wisdom, will be found and made to prevail.

We will be tested this time like never before in our short and sorry history. And, the worst of it, is I think that we do not, we cannot, fathom the full implications of what and where we rear to go. May God in his mercy grant us his saving grace.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

We are all involved, we are all consumed DEAR EDITOR, Allow me please to add ideas and offer my support for the furtherance of the outstanding proposal published in your Tuesday, March 10, 2020 on behalf of Eusi Kwayana and Moses Bhagwan, calling for the emergence of a governance formula. A formula that allows for the installation of a unity government in Guyana, as a compromise remedy within the context of exacerbated tensions, divisions and mistrust in our society arising from the conduct of the 2020 elections.

There is no doubt in my mind that the Kwayana/ Bhagwan forecast of Guyana going “south” to a dangerously frightening precipice, either way the resolution of the 2020 election goes, is absolutely clearsighted . Both parties have brought their basses and supporters to the pinnacle of expectant emotions for a favourable outcome, leaving no room for recoil and conciliation. The end results are predictably catastrophic for the elusive Guyanese identity and destiny.

It is my considered view therefore, that this noble call

has ran its course in oblivion long enough and must, as a matter of national cruciality and imperativeness, be brought to the fore as a timely and plausible remedy that could potentially allow for the emergence of the One Guyana envisioned and desired by the crafters of our solemn motto, and indeed by the majority of Guyanese.

I propose however, that the Unity Cabinet/ Governance Council formula and a concomitantly adopted Parliamentary formula allow for equal division of the combined percentages of the votes earned by each of the two leading parties, the PPP/ C and the APNU/AFC, and proportional division or assignment en bloc of the remaining votes, to the other parties winning parliamentary seats.

The Presidency should be rotated annually between the two leading sides, to further the appearance of justice, trust and confidence building apparent in the equal proportionment of seats.

It is also my considered view, that a number of other significant and crucial measures should be part and parcel of the compromise

model to be formulated and implemented within one hundred day of the government taking office.

These should include: 1. A restructured Guyana Elections Commission as a purely civic body, without party representatives, with sweeping campaign financing and conduct oversight and punitive powers.

2. A restructured Ethnic Relations Commission with a strong mandate to develop and implement far-reaching national, regional, community based and direct contact social sciences programmes, that are expertly grounded in global best practices and geared towards facilitating inter-cultural dialogue and engendering behaviour change at every level of the society. The dismantling of the inherent and learned notions and practices of racism in our society must be foremost on the Commission’s agenda. The commission must also be empowered to administer punitive measures for breaches of a hitherto developed National Racism Code.

3. Public Defender Commission to absorb the roles of the various complaints commissions and the inactive Ombudsman’s Office currently in place and, with additional powers to take petitions directly to Parliament on behalf of ordinary citizens who are able to secure a specified number of co-sponsors on matters and proposals of national importance.

4. A People’s Empowerment Commission which administers a multibillion dollar fund for interestfree loans and small grants for every Guyanese citizen born in Guyana. Loans could be generously capped to ten million per person, accessible every five years. While grants could be capped to one million per person accessible every two years. The commission should also be empowered to incentivize gainful occupation by citizens outside of formal employment, in some form of educational institution or skill training programmes and community service.

5. A Truth, Reconciliation and Remedial Commission, empowered to (Continued on page 6)

Thursday March 12, 2020

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Kaieteur News

Change cannot be brokered when an We can demand and achieve a electoral process has been subverted government of national unity DEAR EDITOR, Miles Fitzpatrick died a year ago. In the1960s he and our father, David, set up a small law practice and devoted a large part of the next 50 years to defending the principles and practice of democratic rule in Guyana and the wider Caribbean.

During the Burnham era, they faced censure, intimidation and many of the customary threats that are levelled at critical voices in transitional democracies.

Nevertheless, they persisted.

After the 1992 election, both men hoped that our fledgling democracy would take flight, delivering us from the viral political quarrels

which had consumed us.

These hopes outlasted the many imperfections of the governments that had a democratic mandate.

Miles and David stood shoulder to shoulder with many Guyanese who had no political ambition other than to live in a democracy, free from fear and confident in the rule of law.

As we remember them today it is not difficult to imagine what they would make of the current impasse, nor of some of the responses it has produced. ( We cannot have a selective buy-in to the democratic process. That process is sacrosanct. If a democracy is to mean

anything, every vote must count.

It seems premature to call, at this stage, for a government of national unity.

Nearly half of the electorate will see this, correctly, as a watering down of the democratic process. ( Both Miles and David advocated tirelessly for constitutional reform and inclusive governance. Those are prerequisites.

But change cannot be brokered when an electoral process has been subverted.

It must emerge under the auspices of a democratically elected government.

Yours faithfully, Brendan de Caires Isabelle de Caires

Please Privatise State Media DEAR EDITOR, As most Guyanese knows, NCN and Guyana Chronicle are State Media through which propaganda is peddled by the government of the day.

There can be no denying that State Media gives the government of the day an unfair advantage.

To equalise the playing field for the Opposition

and for the FREE MEDIA it is imperative that these P R O P A G A N D A PEDALLING BEHEMOTH are privatised.

The Government of the day do not need the State Media to tell them that they are looking good.

It needs objective and impartial reporting on issues.

With the advent of the Internet State Media is

obsolete much like the radio monopoly was.

I suggest that the next Government puts the privatisation of State Media on the front burner as a priority.

Guyanese want to live in a country whereby they are informed about issues impartially and not be propaganda.

Yours faithfully, Sean Ori

Blowing Our Own Trumpets DEAR EDITOR, President Donald Trump announced to journalists at the White House that he would be considering compensating weekly paid workers for absence due to the requirement to avoid contact with the coronavirus by staying at home.

Compare this ‘initiative’ with the provision of paid sick leave so standard in local employment conditions.

Our women’s maternity leave of thirteen (13) weeks must be unheard of by most (new) foreigners (outside the CARICOM region).

Add to the foregoing, annual leave – ranging from

two weeks to one month, with some managerial categories benefitting up to three months.

We are way ahead of Bernie Sanders, with our National Insurance Scheme, usually complemented by corporate contributory pension schemes, clearly distinctive from our national Old Age Pension Scheme.

But just don’t ask RUSAL about Collective Bargaining Agreement – a discouraging example for inhabitants of the new technological environment.

So that with the promised energising of new jobs, which

agency will be assigned the specific responsibility for ensuring compliance by immigrant employers in the first instance, and to whom new delinquent domestic entities will refer as justification?

Anxious as our Private Sector Commission should be, surely its members should seek a reformed construct that would allow them to aggressively monitor the (mis)behaviours of the new competitors.

The malfunctioning agencies of Foreign Affairs and Labour would prefer not to blow their own Trumpets.

E.B. John

There seems to be some grey area developing DEAR EDITOR, There is no hierarchy of documents among the Statements of Polls held by GECOM and those issued to political parties, placed on the exterior of polling places and given to law enforcement officers. It is in this context that I found the discussion by the Chief Justice of the lack of exactitude in verification process alarming. There was a mild suggestion that should a situation arise where the eleven contesting parties and GECOM all have varying and irreconcilable differences in SOPs, that the Returning Officer (RO) can go with

the numbers on the GECOM copy and objections can be entertained by way of election petition after a final declaration. Given that there is no hierarchy of documents as stated in the beginning, the RO’s copy has no more value than that of the smallest contesting party, the legal solution in the event of dispute is to refer to the source of information on the SOP for clarification and verification, the ballots stored in the ballot boxes. The RO cannot declare his/her numbers to be superior to any other.

The very process of returning to the ballot box as outlined above has been utilized in this (Continued on page 6)

DEAR EDITOR, The tragic events unfolding in Guyana remind us more than ever that, as elders Eusi Kwayana and Moses Bhagwan have underlined in their courageous and urgent statement, whoever wins the elections under this winner take all system, all of Guyana loses. As Guyanese we need to face reality.

We must, without compromise, insist that there must be a verified process that conforms to the Representation of the People Act and has the confidence of the parties, of Guyanese, of observers.

What GECOM did last week has made a farce and an utter mockery of the election process. And we should be outraged and we must across all divisions condemn it.

It is also high time and beyond time that we face a n o t h e r, entrenched, r e a l i t y, o n e b e a u t i f u l l y outlined (yet again, for he has been saying this for some time) in Henry Jeffrey’s column of March 11th, and that is that in another sense, fairer and better elections matter little in a deeply polarised winner takes all context.

None of the political parties taking power since independence has done anything to shift this needle.

And let us be honest, whatever coalition or civic they add on, we are talking about the stranglehold of the PPP and PNC on Guyanese people’s lives, like a boot on our collective throats.

The tragedy is that we have a crop of political leaders in the age of oil, oblivious to what mati will do and is doing to mati in the name of party, because their aim is to win.

They claim that they believe in sharing power but they really mean to share out most things to very few among themselves.

To those prophets who would accuse Moses Bhagwan and Eusi Kwayana of only now conveniently speaking up, let me remind them of the statement issued

by Andaiye, Moses Bhagwan and Eusi Kwayana on

January 8, 2018 in response to the so called coalition government’s closure of the sugar estates: “We remind those in power today of the APNU-AFC Manifesto for the 2015 elections, where they committed to “establish and entrench an inclusionary democracy through the appointment of a Government of National Unity which would create opportunities for the participation of citizens and their organisations in the management and decisionmaking processes of the state, with particular emphasis on the areas of decision-making that affect their well-being.” We ask the government, were these empty promises?”

On January 7, 2019, in a diaspora column called “Guyanese people, wake up!

Ex-change after exchange is never a real change”, I ended

by dreaming of ”A movement of folks. Dressed in brown (the party colours of red and green combined).

Our allegiance is to this incredible land that we owe so much to. Holding meetings. Marching side by side. Meeting up in front of parliament. In front of Congress Place. Freedom House.

AFC headquarters.

Demanding these so-called leaders (for that is ALL they are) sit down and put the mechanisms in place for a Government of National Unity. Only we can demand and achieve this.

For over 60 years, we have handed our power to these politicians.

It is high time and about time that we begin the work, the necessary work, to take it back.”

Sincerely, Alissa Trotz

I STAND DEAR EDITOR, I stand with indigenous leader, Mr Lennox Shuman, on his right to wear his cultural garb and be represented. I stand with the Chief Justice in allowing Mr Shuman into the courtroom, recognizing his constitutional rights and protections.

I stand with my colleague, Mr Timothy Jonas, as a fledgling politician safeguarding democracy and the will of the people. I stand with Dr. Asha Kissoon as a powerful woman’s voice,

above the fray of race and ethnicity.

I stand with Mr Nigel Hinds in resisting calls for a national unity government post-elections.

It’s only when the PNC, in any of its apparitions, loses an election, is that option put on the table, usurping the electorate’s free choice.

I stand with all decent Guyanese to call “substantial compliance” what it truly is: rigging. I stand.

Sadie Amin

PAGE 6

The Time for Visionary Leadership in Right Now! DEAR EDITOR, The stuck in the mud approach to politics in Guyana is once again on National and international display.

This head in the sand not an inch of give and take can only serve to damage or country on the national, ethnic and world stage.

More importantly, the example from our leaders to the divided population Afro and Indian Guyanese in particular is one that can only serve to exacerbate the divide that has plagued our country for far too long.

To sit back and wait for the court or the election body to impose a solution is an example of weak and spineless leadership devoid of initiative.

Is it so difficult for the political class to appreciate the long term damage the winner take all approach has visited on our nation? No one wins, what this approach produces is what we have now, a divided nation ready for exploitation by the greedy and pernicious.

When will we truly fulfill and live out our motto of ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’? I am of the belief that former leader of the PNC, the Late Honorable LFS Burnham, missed an opportunity back in the day

Thursday March 12, 2020

Kaieteur News

when he opted to align his party with the United Force rather than the PPP. I fear that very opportunity is being squandered right now. HARD DECISIONS ARE NOT MEANT TO BE EASY BY THEIR VERY NATURE, BUT THEYARE NECESSARY! The time to make a hard decision is now.

The coalition in the form of the PNC or the PPP will not accept any decision that does not go their way. What do we have left? Entrenched hate and division, the advantage and the emphasis here is not, or should not be about who controls the proceeds from oil but the all important need to heal our Nation.

I have listened to voice clips sent to me from friends in Guyana and the incendiary hate was enough to make me throw up! We cannot and must not continue down this road, Guyana simply cannot afford it.

I Maybe a Guyanese American but I have never lost sight of the fact that I am a GUYANESE FIRST and always, one who knows firsthand the effects of a bomb being thrown into my parents home in 1963 and my being alive by the grace of God after removing myself minutes before from the area in the home where the device came to rest, exploding with

devastating consequences.

The time for VISIONARY LEADERSHIP IS NOW! The Leadership of the PNC and the PPP MUST sit down at the table and hammer out a solution.

This Black and Indian nonsense Must Stop and the leadership Must come from the Top. How many Indians in Guyana can claim pure Indian blood? Conversely, how many Afro Guyanese can claim pure African blood? We are a hybrid Nation and cannot exist without each other.

This does not mean we have to invite the street to eat roti or enjoy metem every Saturday, but we can all least respect each other.

On a closing note, I think it was reprehensible that the Native Leader had difficulties entering the court dressed in his native garb.

What are we saying to him and his people, the first people no less.

This is where leadership could have made a profound difference by making a phone call to allow him to enter the court rather than being a spectacle outside the courtroom.

WILL THE REAL LEADERS PLEASE STAND UP? Guyana is waiting!

Respectfully, Claudeston G. Massiah

Some clarifications DEAR EDITOR, We hasten to make five clarifications regarding our recent statement.

1. We responded to a request from people of a younger generation who were appalled by the outbreak of violence in a few places, and the fatal shooting of a young citizen in one location.

2. The formula set out in our statement as a tool of reconciliation is only one of

several possible approaches.

3. Our statement named only the two major political parties, but there are many other constituencies including the indigenous people.

4.

We responded positively because we have both dealt with the race issue for decades, at first on opposite sides of the divide, but from the early 1970s with a common purpose.

5. We make it clear that we do not propose any avoidance of the work of the courts in their function of judicial review as they find and accept jurisdiction.

Therefore, it would be premature or impertinent for anyone to make a declaration as to the winners of the elections.

Regards, EusiKwayana and Moses Bhagwan

The impact of the coronavirus DEAR EDITOR, The 2019–20 coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing global outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 caused by the SARS coronavirus. The outbreak was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei, China in December 2019, and has since been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization.

As of 10 March 2020, over 118,000 cases have been confirmed globally, of which 5,800 were classified as serious. More than 115 countries and territories have been affected, with major outbreaks in central China, Italy, South Korea and Iran.

More than 4,200 people have died: more than 3,100 in mainland China and over 1,000 in other countries. More than 64,000 people have recovered.

The virus spreads

between people in a similar way to influenza, via respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. The time between exposure and symptom onset is typically five days, but may range from two to fourteen days.

Symptoms are most often fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Complications may include pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome. There is currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment, but research is ongoing. Efforts are aimed at managing symptoms and supportive therapy.

Recommended preventive measures include hand washing, maintaining distance from other people particularly those who are sick and monitoring and selfisolation for fourteen days for people who suspect they are infected.

Public health responses

around the world have included travel restrictions, quarantines, curfews, and school closures. They have included the quarantine of Hubei, China, and the entirety of Italy; various curfew measures in China and South [screening methods at airports and train stations; and travel advisories regarding regions with community transmission.

Schools have closed nationwide or locally in some countries, affecting more than 300 million students.

The wider impact of the outbreak has included social and economic instability, xenophobia and racism against people of Chinese and East Asian descent, and the online spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories about the virus.

Yours, Ramcharan Ramdat

There seems to be some grey... We are all involved, we are all...

From page 5 election (2020) in Region Five during the APNU/AFC requested recount. That the

recount was aborted after the PPP/C lead grew is of no consequence, the precedent has been set.

Given that a return to the verification process is inevitable and there seems to be some grey area developing to cloud the transparency and integrity of the procedures, I would suggest that the offer of assistance from the United Kingdom be accepted and visiting that CARICOM heads also be focused on ensuring a credible process of verification be agreed to before GECOM’s District Four verification is allowed to reboot.

Respectfully, Robin Singh

From page 4 examine ancestral and industrial land issues, and other current and historical grievances among the various ethnic and social groups and, provide full and acceptable remedies towards the achievement of national equity.

6. A Development Equity Commission empowered to scrutinize all projects and programmes of the government to ensure equity in services, capacity building and empowerment for all of Guyana’s peoples.

7. The appointment of an autonomous Contractor General to police compliance at every stage of contract awards and ensure that tax payers get best value for money.

8.

The new government must also review the inaction of the Constitutional Reform Commission and issue a new

mandate, compelling conclusion of its work within two years. The foregoing commissions proposed should have temporary status covered by whatever provisions are put in place for the temporary governance model, and should be given constitutional authority and autonomous funding rights, directly from the Consolidated Fund, under the new constitution.

This national unity governance model being promulgated should be adopted for a temporary life of five years and institutionalized under the new constitution for permanence, with new elections set for2030.

The much touted “decade of development” could now be expanded to proportionally include ideas from the manifestos of all the parties comprising the unity government and implemented

as a joint national plan for all Guyana and all Guyanese.

When the international mediators who are now lining up to come broker another accord arrive, they must find plausible organic ideas and proposals already on the table, allowing the mediation process to produce a solution of Guyanese origin, brokered with just an international touch.

I therefore call on as many Guyanese as possible to dissect these proposals, add and subtract from them and posit ideas of your own, regardless of political affiliation, station in life… real or perceived, or regardless of “your lane”, expertise or no expertise, if you are a Guyanese, you should have a say, for we are all involved, we are all consumed.

Sincerely, Dario Mcklmon Guyanese and proud Lindener

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 12, 2020

PAGE 07

Oil price war could slow - Charles ExxonMobil's projects Ramson Jr.

By Kiana Wilburg

I

n light of the oil price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia, American oil giant ExxonMobil, which has sold off some of its global assets to focus on operations in Guyana, will now have to determine if still wants to aggressively pursue development projects says Attorney-at-Law, Charles Ramson Jr. During an interview with Kaieteur News, Ramson reminded that oil prices have plummeted by more than 20 percent due to the war between two of the world's largest oil producers, and compounding the crisis is the fact that the Coronavirus has been deemed a pandemic by t h e Wo r l d H e a l t h Organization.

Further to this, Ramson reminded that ExxonMobil has the Liza Phase One Project which is producing since December 20, last.

Then there is the Liza Phase Two project which it is working on while awaiting

Attorney-at-Law, Charles Ramson Jr.

approval to go ahead with the development of the Payara project which is expected to produce 220,000 barrels of oil at peak.

In addition to this, ExxonMobil has issued an application for approval from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for a fourth project called Hammerhead. If approval is granted in the timeframe the Operator is hopeful for, Exxon can start producing close to 190,000 barrels of heavy oil from the Stabroek Block.

Ramson said that when one considers the magnitude of the projects, if the price of

oil continues to remain low, then ExxonMobil would have to reassess how quickly it would want to move forward in such an environment.

Ramson's views would also be in line with those raised by Wood Mackenzie analysts. They had said that if the oil price continues to average below US$40 a barrel, then oil majors would have to do significant budget cuts, while noting that the industry would be forced to do deep restructuring.

“But they will be paying attention to this because you live and die by the prices...,” the Consultant added.

OIL CRISIS The crisis in the oil market is due to two interrelated factors—fears over the coronavirus and a brewing oil price war between Russia and Saudi Arabia.

Just a few days ago, oil prices saw the most dramatic decline since the financial crisis in 2008. Because of the coronavirus, oil prices which were as high as US$69 a barrel in early January declined to about US$50US$45 a barrel. That state of affairs would only get worse following a row that could become an ugly oil price war between Russia and Saudi Arabia.

According to CNN Business, Russia refused a proposal that was made last Friday at a meeting in Vienna by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to cut back on the production of oil supply in an attempt to support prices which have been declining due to fears over the coronavirus.

In response to Russia's

refusal, Saudi Arabia over the weekend slashed its selling price for crude by US$6 to US$8 in an effort to retake market share and heap pressure on Russia. Upon review of the foregoing, international analysts commented that Saudi Arabia is “rolling up its sleeves for a price war.”

The net effect of Saudi's actions led to prices dropping to US$34 a barrel.

CNN Business also reported that the shock to oil also rattled stock markets, which were already in a panic because of the novel coronavirus outbreak.

The news agency noted that markets in Asia plunged during Monday trading, while US stocks recorded massive declines.

In Europe, stocks plunged by 8.5%, while Germany's was down 7.4% and Italy's by 7%.

It was also noted that energy stocks were clobbered. ExxonMobil (XOM) and Chevron (CVX) plunged more than 9% apiece, and BP (BP) tumbled

20%. Exploration and production companies suffered even steeper losses: Pioneer Natural Resources (PXD) plummeted more than 30%, while Occidental Petroleum (OXY) lost 40%.

(See link for more details: https://edition.cnn.com/202 0/03/08/investing/oilprices-crash-opec-russiasaudi-arabia/index.html).

With the oil price war unraveling before the world, US Investment Bank and Financial Services Company, Goldman Sachs said that oil prices dropping by 43 percent to US$20 a barrel is a real possibility that the market should brace itself for.

S&P Global Platts, the leading independent provider of benchmark prices and analytics for the energy and commodities markets for over 100 years, also noted that oil majors will be under considerable pressure to slash their investment plans and cut shareholder payouts this year in light of tumbling prices.

Region Four declaration unlawful From page 3 elections until the Returning Officer or Deputy Returning Officer for District Four complies with and/or ensures compliance with the provisions of Section 84(1) of Chapter 103.

Additionally, the CJ made several injunctions granted by Justice Navindra Singh, which block GECOM from making the declarations until they are compliance with the law, absolute “The injunctions are now made final.”

URGENT ACTION Given the urgent nature of the matter, the Chief Justice gave consequential orders directing that the Returning Officer or Deputy R e t u r n i n g O ff i c e r f o r District Four must commence compliance with Section 84 (1) of the Representation of the People Act Chapter 103 no later than 11:00 hours today, March 12, 2020.

The Judge nonetheless noted that it is for the Returning Officer and the Deputy Returning Officer for District Four, to decide whether the process of

determining whether the process should be restarted or continued.

The Chief Justice noted, however, that the Returning Officer and Deputy are carrying statutory roles, and

attorneys from both sides agreed that the law does not state expressly how they are to carry out their functions as it relates to the final declarations.

According to the CJ, it is

up to the officers to accept or reject any dispute claims made about in relation to SOPs or declarations made.

Justice George noted that therefore anybody else that thinks they have input in the

process must know that it is not their statutory duty. She said too that it should be decided how many persons are allowed to witness the procedure, as parties from both sides contributed to the

confusion which occurred on March 5 last.

In the circumstances of her judgment, the CJ awarded costs to the applicant in the sum of $500,000.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Thursday March 12, 2020

Presence of all officials Former Deeds Registrar entitled to witness vote fined $4.5M on fraud charge tabulation not necessary - Chief Justice Roxane George

Former Deeds and Commercial Registrar, Azeena Baksh, and her attorney, Nigel Hughes

S

everal persons are entitled to be present at a vote count, according to section 86(1) of the Representation of the People Act. They are the returning officer and such other election officers as he may appoint to assist him in the counting, members of the Commission, duly appointed candidates, counting agents and such other persons as, in the opinion of the returning officer, have good reason to be present.

Though the Act grants these persons the privilege of witnessing the count, Chief Justice Roxane George said

in a ruling handed down yesterday, that the presence of all of those persons entitled is not necessary.

In making this statement, the Chief Justice was in agreement with a statement

by Chief Justice Desiree Bernard in her ruling on the case of Joseph Hamilton v Guyana Elections Commission.

In that ruling, Bernard had said that the presence of all the persons listed in section 86(1) is not required at the addition of the statements of poll, and that the returning officer has the discretion to determine which persons would have good reason to be present.

Chief Justice George said that it is also within the discretion of the returning officer to determine which election officer will assist him.

While the current Chief

Justice agrees with the conclusion of the former, she added that, as this era calls for greater transparency in the actions of public officials, “once any of the persons entitled to attends, then the addition must be done in their presence.”

The Chief Justice added that this aspect of section 84(1) of the Act, which calls for the votes cast in favour of each party to be ascertained in the presence of the officials listed in 86(1), is mandatory, meaning “non compliance with one's scrutiny can result in the invalidity of the process.”

“This may appear to be a fine distinction,” the CJ said, “but I feel it has to be made in the interest of the credibility of the process and in order to update the continued contentions regarding the tabulation and declaration of election results.”

F

ormer Deeds Registrar, Azeena Baksh, who was charged in 2017 for procuring over $4M by false pretence, was yesterday found guilty of the offence and spared jailed time, but ordered to reimburse the state $4,534,480.

The 33-year-old Baksh, represented by Attorney Nigel Hughes, yesterday appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts. Baksh was arraigned before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly who handed down the ruling on the matter. The Magistrate ruled that there was sufficient evidence against Baksh, and as such she was found guilty of the offence.

The Magistrate ordered that the defendant pay the sum of $1 M b e f o r e leaving the court yesterday and gave her three months to

pay off the balance.

Particulars of the charge against her stated that while being a member of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) between May 1, 2014 and January 31, 2017, with intent to defraud, she caused or procured valuable securities to the sum of $4,534,480 to be delivered to her bank of Nova Scotia account #281469; or to her own use and benefit by falsely pretending she was a contracted employee of the Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority.

It was staffers at the s Registry who called upon the Ministry of Legal Affairs to investigate their complaints of alleged financial improprieties committed by Baksh.

According to the M i n i s t r y, t h e H u m a n

Resource and Accounting Departments complained that as Head of the Budget Agency and sole person in authority to approve and sign off the payroll of the Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority and one of the main signatories on the Authority's Bank Account, the Registrar unlawfully paid herself gratuity.

It was alleged that she did this knowing that she was a pensionable employee, having been appointed by the JSC. Registrar Baksh further unlawfully paid herself a higher salary than was approved by the JSC. The Ministry of Legal Affairs stated that the Deeds Registry officers disclosed that these payments started since 2014 and continued up to early 2017.

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 12, 2020

PAGE 09

Sixteen more years? Russian parliament backs move to keep Putin in power

M

O S C O W (Reuters) Constitutional changes allowing Vladimir Putin to run for president again in 2024 sailed through both houses of Russia's parliament yesterday, raising the prospect he could clock up over three decades in the Kremlin.

Putin, 67, who has dominated Russia's political landscape for two decades as either president or prime minister, made a dramatic appearance in the lower chamber a day earlier to argue that term limits were less important in times of crisis.

A former KGB officer, Putin is currently required by the constitution to step down in 2024 when his second sequential and fourth presidential term ends. But the amendment which he backed would formally reset his own presidential term tally to zero. Successors would face a two-term limit however.

The 450-seat State Duma, the lower house of parliament, on Wednesday backed the term reset for Putin, along with other amendments to the constitution, by 383 votes, in a final reading. Nobody voted against.

Hours later, the 170-seat Federation Council, the upper house of parliament, gave its approval by 160 votes to one. “ V l a d i m i r Vladimirovich must have the right to run in new competitive nationwide elections,” said Valentina Matviyenko, the speaker of the upper house, calling the amendment timely.

“Whether he exercises this right in 2024 or not is of course up to him, but he must have the right... We must recognize what was done by Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin for the country's development in the last 20 years. He has raised the country from its knees.”

If, as Putin critics expect, regional parliaments and the constitutional court now give their blessing and the overall changes are backed in a nationwide vote in April, Putin would have the legal option to run again for president in 2024.

Were he to do that, and his health and electoral fortunes allowed, he could potentially stay in office for another two back-to-back six-year terms until 2036 at which point he would be 83 and have spent 36 years at the top of Russian politics.

Such a scenario would

see him wield power longer than Soviet leader Josef Stalin, but still leave him well short of Tsar Peter the Great, who reigned for 43 years.

PRESIDENT FOR LIFE? Opposition activists have said they plan to organize protests as early as Friday.

Their plans are complicated however by an order from Moscow's government which has banned public gatherings of more than 5,000 people until April 10 due to coronavirus-related risks.

Putin remains popular with many Russians, who see him as a welcome source of stability, even as others complain that he has been in power for too long.

Two people staged lone pickets outside the State Duma on Wednesday. One of them Gleb Tumanov, 31, said he was a member of the Yabloko party, and held a banner calling the move “an usurpation of power.”

“I'm here because of Vladimir Putin's desire to stay for a fifth term or even maybe a sixth,” said Tumanov.

“It just feels sad. And reminiscent of the Soviet Union. I didn't spend very much time living in the

Dem boys seh...

Guyana don't miss nutten

H

ardly anything does miss Guyana. Every style Guyanese see pun TV dem does adopt. De men even adopt a New York Jail style, wheh prisoners who don't have belt walking wid dem pants waist by dem knee.

Jamaicans have dem reggae and then dem got dem accent. Imagine, just push a microphone in a Guyanese hand and he start to talk like Jamaican. Before that, dem used to talk like Yankee.

De only thing Guyanese miss was how to live like decent people when dem deh in de country.

Dem live like cat and dog during de election time.

People does mek some statements that dem boys does wonder if dem people had that in dem mind all de time.

Last week Monday de country vote. By Wednesday

dem boys believe that dem was in Trinidad fuh carnival.

Everybody was celebrating.

Eventually dem stop because dem couldn't continue.

Couple farriners actually tell dem to stop.

Now de whole world talking bout de coronavirus.

This was something that start in China. At first people start to talk about bringing home all who deh in China. When somebody tell dem that to bring home de China students was to bring de virus, dem change dem mind.

But de coronavirus come anyway. Guyanese like to go to New York. Some couldn't go suh de virus come to Guyana.

That is how dem boys know nutten don't miss Guyana. Wid all de talk about preparation and how G u y a n a r e a d y, d e coronavirus come. It come from America wid a lady.

Is now de people at de Ministry of Health wondering how many people this lady come into contact wid. De protocol is about quarantine. That mean people got to stay lock up in dem house and don't go nowhere.

This lady was locked up wid a whole plane load. Then she mix and meddle wid de people at de two airports—New York and Guyana. Then in Guyana she had to mix wid Customs and Immigration. It was de same in New York.

Dem boys seh people shouldn't forget de people who she use to live wid and de people at dem hospital she come into contact wid. But Guyana is a blessed place.

Dem boys seh de virus wouldn't spread. At least none of de lady family ain't ketch it.

Talk half and keep a lookout fuh de virus.

Soviet Union obviously but neither do I have any desire to do so.”

Kremlin critic and opposition politician Alexei Navalny has said he believed Putin was trying to become president for life.

Putin has not spelled out his plans after 2024, but has said he does not favor the Soviet-era practice of leaders remaining in place until they die.

Putin in January unveiled a major shake-up of Russian politics and a constitutional overhaul, which the Kremlin

billed as a redistribution of power from the presidency to parliament.

But Putin's critics say the reform was merely a smoke screen to give the country's ruling elite a way to keep Putin in power after 2024.

Opposition politician and former lawmaker Dmitry Gudkov said on Wednesday he thought the changes had dealt a mortal blow to the country's constitution.

“Russia has lost its constitution, which didn't work anyway,” Gudkov

Russia's President Vladimir Putin wrote on social media. “The fig leaf has fallen off the regime and we can see who turned out to be beneath it.”

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Thursday March 12, 2020

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

What took place in Guyana at GECOM is a global disgrace I

n life, there is no guarantee of fairness and justice. This is because human nature is flawed. Aristotle did not write on the nature of human nature, but he did present a case whereby because humans are what they are, you can still obtain fairness and justice through societal agreement on the need for regulating human conduct.

We will never have civilization where justice and fairness naturally flow from human conduct, but the limit on humans' willingness to impose their own system of justice on others has been severely curtailed long before the modern world evolved.

Today civilization has

survived all kinds of cruel unfairness heaped upon it by unreasonable humans, but Homo sapiens will continue to be bestial.

One of the ways humans have tried to mask their cruel tendencies on others is to hide them or hope that they evade punishment. In modern civilized society, humans try to hide their selfishness, and this is because they know that manifest misconduct brings retaliation.

The story of the breakdown of the postelection process at GECOM constitutes one of the most barefaced and degenerate acts of unfairness in the global modern world. I saw tears in the eyes of the chairman of the Private Sector

Commission, Gerry Gouveia when he described how the tabulation and verification process was aborted two Wednesdays ago at GECOM centre. He sat next to me in Kaieteur Radio studio and as he got further and further into his depiction of the insanity GECOM heaped upon this besieged nation, tears gathered in his eyes.

I am not going to waste valuable space in this column to describe what went on there. It is because I knew what took place, and because my soul was rocked deeply and extensively by the descent into the chasm of uncivilized sickness, I expressed what I knew about the election results in my Tuesday column titled “I

firmly and consciously believe the PPP won the election.”

As a reaction to the Tuesday adumbration, I received a call from an African scholar of Guyanese and Caribbean prominence who is connected to the Government of Guyana, who told me I should not have offered my views on the election results.

I will offer his explanation then submit my rebuttal. He opined that because I stand above Indian tribalism and do not advance an Indian narrative, I have not helped the pregnancy of power-sharing dialogue. He suggested that by stating my belief on the election results, my analysis will help one side only.

I went at length to explain why I did so, and only one reason I had when I did that, and only one reason will exist in my mind when I repeat

what I believe are the election results. That driving force was what happened from Wednesday afternoon of March 4 at GECOM command centre, until the Chief Justice declared yesterday afternoon that Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo acted illegally when he declared the final election results. I told that scholar, uncivilized action of humans at GECOM forced me to commit to the philosophical principles that I must fulfill my obligations to my country. I knew from Tuesday morning how the voting went.

Then insanities took over the post-voting process the n e x t d a y.

In the reverberations of confusion, I believe I would have continued to contribute to the madness of uncertainties spinning like windmills in the minds of the people of Guyana had I remained silent or non-committal. I made my belief known about the election results as an act of confrontation as to what was taking place at GECOM. I am saying with pellucid forcefulness, that what occurred at GECOM through their high-ranking officials were acts of dishonesty that were too sick for the world to tolerate, much less accept.

Frederick Kissoon It is obligatory of those nationalists who have funds available, to finance a publication on the social and psychological brutalities that characterized the behaviour of GECOM officials from Wednesday afternoon of March 4, so that future generations can learn the lessons.

The publication must be made widely available, so folks can keep copies and pass them on to their grandchildren. Banal words like “shocking,” “ i n c r e d i b l e , ” “unbelievable,” “ridiculous,” “horrible,” are trillions of miles away from a satisfactory portrait of what GECOM did to this country from Wednesday, March 4.

Those who love this country and want it to have a future must contribute to the funding of that publication. It will be a lesson that future generations would hope never happens again in Guyana or any other country.

Civilized society should never see these things again.

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

Thursday March 12, 2020

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PAGE 13

Coronavirus death‌

President warns against public

gatherings, non-essential travel - monitoring of borders stepped up; contact tracing begins

T

he following is a statement by President David Granger last evening: Guyanese, it is my sad duty to announce Guyana confirmed its first imported case of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Georgetown on Wednesday 11th March 2020.

The patient has been identified as a 52-year-old Guyanese female who had travelled from the United States of America, which has reported cases of COVID19. She arrived in the country on 5th March, presented to the public health system on 10th March and was found to have uncontrolled Diabetes and Hypertension. She subsequently died at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation at 08:00 hours on 11th March.

Health professionals sought to conduct tests for COVID-19 based on the patient's travel history. A clinical sample was collected and sent at 10:00 hours on 11th March 2020 to the National Reference L a b o r a t o r y, w h e r e laboratory test confirmed the diagnosis at approximately 17:00 hours. The patient's infection is classified an imported case.

Measures are being taken to prevent the risk of community spread. These measures include: - dispatch of a health team to the home of the deceased for assessment and initiation of public health prevention measures; - identification and contact tracing for all possible exposed persons; - meeting of Ministry officials with members of staff at the hospital; and, - implementation of necessary interventions.

Screening remains in place for those persons arriving from high-risk countries. Seven countries – Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Brazil, French Guiana, Panama, St. Vincent and the United States of America – have been added to the list of eight (People's Republic of China, Italy, South Korea, Singapore, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia and Iran) that was previously made public. I advise,

Centre (EOC) will be activated to provide sector wide support.

The Ministry of Public Health is also urging the public to adhere to infection prevention and control measures, particularly to: - maintain a distance of at

President David Granger further, that: - public gatherings be discouraged; - non-essential travel be discouraged; - competent agencies continue to patrol irregular border crossings; and - enhanced sensitization of key personnel at all air and seaports is to continue.

The Ministry of Public Health has designated three quarantine facilities; others will be identified. The Ministry, also, has: - developed the local capacity to test for the COVID-19, thanks to training provided by the Pan-American Health Organization; it is on that capacity that we relied for this test result; - assessed the readiness of our health facilities to meet the anticipated increase in demand on services; - continued to fill existing gaps, including with respect of additional supplies and equipment, though, at the present time, the Ministry has enough personal protective equipment in the country for our health facilities. It has, also, adequate stores of respiratory medicine for the next three months; - trained, and continues to train, health-care providers and firstresponders; and - heightened Active Surveillance.

These efforts are s u p p o r t e d b y a communications campaign to keep the population updated on the virus and its impacts and oversight provided by the Health Emergency Operations Centre. The National Emergency Operations

least one metre from persons who are coughing or sneezing; - perform hand hygiene frequently by washing hands thoroughly with soap and water or using a hand sanitizer if hands are not visibly soiled;

- cover mouths and noses with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and then discarding it; and - resist the habit to touch the face.

I use this opportunity to appeal to the public to remain calm and to

implement all the advisories relating to personal hygiene, social distancing and overall infection prevention and control. The Government of Guyana will continue to keep the public informed as we manage this public health challenge.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Thursday March 12, 2020

Trump curbs travel from Europe as coronavirus disrupts schools, sports WASHINGTON/SEAT TLE (Reuters) - President Donald Trump ordered the suspension of European travel to the United States for 30 days to help curb the spread of a coronavirus pandemic that has disrupted nearly all corners of U.S. daily life, from education to sports and entertainment.

Trump, whose administration has come under sharp criticism for its response to the public health crisis, also announced several steps aimed at blunting economic fallout posed by coronavirus.

“We are marshaling the full power of the federal government and the private

sector to protect the American people,” Trump said in a prime-time televised address from the Oval Office. “This is the most aggressive and comprehensive effort to confront a foreign virus in modern history.”

Tr u m p , w h o s e r e election bid on Nov. 3 could hinge on how well he responds to the crisis, stopped short of declaring a national emergency as the number of coronavirus infections continued to mount.

In the hard-hit Seattle area, the largest public school district in Washington state announced

a two-week closure.

The unprecedented shutdown coincided with Washington state Governor Jay Inslee banning public gatherings of more than 250 people in the Seattle region.

The greater Seattle area is the epicenter of the deadliest, and one of the largest, clusters of coronavirus infections in the United States, accounting for the bulk of at least 37 people killed in the country by the highly contagious respiratory illness, also known as COVID-19.

The outbreak took a major toll on U.S. sports as the National Basketball Association said it was

Members of a Servpro cleanup crew wearing hazardous material suits prepare to enter Life Care Center of Kirkland, the Seattle-area nursing home at the epicenter of one of the biggest coronavirus outbreaks in the United States, in Kirkland, Washington, U.S. March 11, 2020.

REUTERS/Jason Redmond suspending the season until further notice after a Utah Jazz player tested positive for the coronavirus.

National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) said earlier on Wednesday that its wildly popular “March Madness” basketball tournament games would be played in arenas without fans.

Late-night television was taking a hit as well, with at least two shows produced in New York City - NBC's “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon” and CBS' “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” - planning to begin taping without a live studio audience for the first time, Hollywood trade publication Variety reported.

The outbreak even touched one of Hollywood's most beloved stars, as Oscarwinning actor Tom Hanks announced on Twitter that he and his wife, Rita Wilson, had tested positive for coronavirus in Australia, where he was on a film shoot.

TRUMP ACTS ON TRAVEL, BUSINESS FRONTS Extending U.S. travel restrictions he imposed last month on airline flights from China, Trump said all travel from Europe to the United States would be suspended for 30 days, effective at midnight on Friday, though he exempted the United

Kingdom.

Coronavirus outbreaks have flared in several European nations, especially in Italy, whose government has imposed a virtual lockdown of the entire country.

Seeking to stem the financial and economic impact of the pandemic, which has sent stocks plunging over the past week, Trump announced he was taking several steps, such as instructing the Treasury Department to defer tax payments without interest or penalties for certain business and individuals hit by the health crisis.

The president also said he would take emergency action to provide financial relief for workers who are ill, quarantined or caring for others due to coronavirus.

And he said he was directing the Small Business Administration to provide capital and liquidity to firms affected coronavirus, including low-interest loans.

STOCKS PLUNGE AGAIN Wa l l S t r e e t s t o c k s plunged because of uncertainties surrounding the coronavirus, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average confirming a bear market for the first time in over a decade.

The market concern was compounded by a Reuters (continued on page 22)

Thursday March 12, 2020

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Thursday March 12, 2020

Four charged with Rose Hall businessman's murder

F

our men charged with the murder of a Corentyne businessman made their first appearance yesterday at the Number 51 Court before Magistrate Alex Moore.

Satram Kushlay also known as "Steve Urkel", a 27-year-old Cane Harvester of Lot 80 Hampshire Village, Corentyne, Berbice and Bilall Mclennon, 30, of

Moora Street, Swamp Section, Rose Hall Town, were charged jointly with murder committed on Lomenzo "Sham" Johnny on February 27, 2020.

Meanwhile, the other two accused Gopaul Ramgobin alias "Ling", a 24year-old Hire Car driver of Lot 170 Tain Village and Navendra Narine called "Husk", a 24-year-old Hire

Car driver of Tain Settlement were charged with knowing Satram Kushlay and Bilall Mc Lennon had committed the offence of murder, did receive, comfort, relieve and maintain, harbour and assist Kushlay and Mc Lennon between the 27th February and 6th March(accessory after the fact).

Narine was represented

by Attorney-at-law Rodwell

Gopaul Ramgobin

Bilall Mc Lennon

Satram Kushlay

Murdered: Lomenzo "Sham" Johnny

Wanted: Daniel Mc Lennon called "Dutty"

Navendra Narine

Jagmohan while the other three were unrepresented.

They were not required to plead to the charges read to them by the magistrate and bail was denied. The prosecution indicated that the file in the matter is 95% complete. The date was set for a return on the 14th of April.

Meanwhile, the relatives of both the accused and victim were present at court yesterday.

Lomenzo Johnny was brutally murdered and his premises ransacked on the 27th of February, 2020. He was having his regular evening jog when he was attacked by several men.

They bound his legs and battered and stabbed him to death before dumping his body in a farm lot located through J. C. Chandisingh Street in Portuguese Quarters, Port Mourant.

Johnny's home and business (grocery shop) were located just 300 metres away from the crime scene.

It was two construction workers who showed up early the next morning to work on an incomplete structure who discovered the businessman's body with his face and head covered in blood. The police were immediately contacted.

Investigators while at the scene had found a pair of scissors and a plank, along with Johnny's sweater and sneakers with one lace missing. That missing lace was used to tie Johnny's feet together.

With arrests and releases, police finally made headway in the case several days after the incident.

Four were arrested and one confessed. He told police that robbery was the intention but the businessman knew a few of them, so to avoid being identified they ended his life.

Police are still on the hunt for the fifth suspect who is said to be "the main one". A wanted bulletin was issued for Daniel Mc Lennon called "Dutty" of Rose Hall Town.

Police during their investigations had recovered a chest that was stolen from Johnny's home and some cash that the police have already lodged.

Thursday March 12, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 17

PAGE 18

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 12, 2020

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 12, 2020

PAGE 19

CJ's ruling on declaration of Region Four results...

“We- Anilare vindicated” Nandlall

By Shikema Dey

A

ttorney-at-law and People's Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Executive Anil Nandlall believes that the party has been vindicated after Chief Justice Roxanne George ruled that the Returning Officer for District Four, Clairmont Mingo infringed the law when he declared results for the region.

Following the ruling, Nandlall spoke to members of the media and stated that “We knew that the process was not complied with.”

According to him, “We knew what the legislation provides.

We knew who were supposed to be present and we knew how the process was supposed to be

conducted, and it was not done in accordance with the law.”

Nandlall told the media that this action was completely unnecessary. He praised the Chief Justice's timely ruling, noting that the due process can continue as it should have.

“You know the amount of work that had to have been done over the past few days… and it is now for us to ensure that Section 84 (of the Representation of The People Act) and accompanying sections are complied with in its letter and spirit.”

He also mentioned the Chief Justice's words citing a similar incident nineteen

years ago, with a similar outcome. In his words, “We find ourselves at the same position, all over again.”

Nandlall stressed that when political parties lose an elections, they have to accept the results.

Further, he has hopes that the Returning Officer (RO), Clairmont Mingo, will carry out his instructions and his duty in accordance with law.

In the CJ's ruling, it was ordered that the RO must begin the process at 11:00am today, but it is left up Mr. Mingo to decide whether to do a total recount or to continue from where the process was stopped.

Nandlall, when asked which method his party may

Attorney-at-law Anil Nandlall speaking to the media following the court ruling

prefer, opined that the process should resume from where it left off.

“My personal preference

would've been for him to resume where he left off, because a lot of work was done, and that did not evoke

any controversy, so I think all parties accepted the number of boxes that were verified so far.”

Cops seek Cuban national for strangling of Bourda woman

P

olice believe they know who strangled 67-yearold Marva Oudkerk in her Lot 241 Bourda Street, Georgetown home last October.

Their prime suspect is Lopez Perez Jair, a 31-year Cuban national, for whom they issued a wanted bulletin yesterday.

Police gave Jair's addresses as Lot 106 Plantation Versailles, West Bank Demerara and San Miguel del Padrón, Havana, Cuba.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Lopez Perez Jair is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers, 216-

0251, 216-0253, 226-6978, 2258196, 226-2870, 226-7065, 2271149, 226-7065, 226-9834, 2682298, 226-2222, 229-2557, 6179660, 911 or the nearest police station.

The body of Marva Oudkerk was found inside her home on October 11, 2019. Her mosquito net was tightly wrapped around her neck. A post mortem revealed that she was strangled.

The killer(s) had gained entry into the house by removing several floor boards.

An undisclosed amount of cash and jewellery were also missing from the slain woman's

bedroom.

Police obtained security camera footage of an individual entering Mrs. Oudkerk's premises.

However, they were initially unable to identify the intruder.

Makada Oudkerk, her daughter, has offered US$2000 for information that could lead to the apprehending of her mother's killer.

“My mother loved living alone, she enjoyed her own company and everybody around her area was aware of that. I was the one that discovered her body, and it is something I will never get over.”

Wanted: Lopez Perez Jair – In photo at right is footage, with an image of someone believe to be Jair, in the victim's yard

Marva Oudkerk

The house in which Marva Oudkerk was slain

Kaieteur News

PAGE 20

Thursday March 12, 2020

Govt. lost five years of oil and gas capacity building - Lars Mangal T

he Government of Guyana has lost some five years of oil and gas institutional capacity building and the development of an agenda for the sector.

This is according to Guyanese oil and gas entrepreneur, Lars Mangal, President and CEO of T O TA LT E C O i l f i e l d Services Inc. He was speaking during an interview with German media outlet Deutsche Welle in late February 2020.

“The government of Guyana has lost five years in terms of institutional capacity building and development of an oil agenda to better serve the people of Guyana. This has to change as a matter of priority and with a sense of urgency,” Mangal said.

He said further that after the dust settles in Guyana following elections on March 2, 2020, the

TOTALTEC's President and CEO, Lars Mangal Government and the Opposition must agree to a binding long term agenda for the oil and gas sector, including a robust policy to ensure the utilization of local services and labour.

“Unfortunately, we lost a lot of time because our parliament was paralyzed for more than a year after a vote of no confidence in Dec

2018. In my opinion, what is important for development is a policy with a local focus, i.e. part of the materials and labour must be sourced and developed locally,” he said.

“After the next elections, politicians must overcome their divisions. The opposition and the government must agree on a binding long-term oil

agenda. This is important so that the government sets the agenda in partnership with the oil companies,” he added.

Mangal noted that Guyana also needs to ensure good governance and accelerate marketing and exploration in other blocks where new contracting opportunities and models will emerge.

He said that from ExxonMobil's Stabroek Block development, Guyana now has the opportunity to change as a country, to drive development, to modernize the economy and to lift every Guyanese household out of poverty.

“Exxon is one of the most capable oil companies in the world. We have a technologically complex offshore project here in Guyana that smaller companies couldn't handle at the pace required. Given the depth of the field (10003000 metres), extracting oil

Prison officer allegedly continues to threaten woman from cell

A

lmost one month after being charged for allegedly threatening a woman and breaching a protection order, George Selman, a serving member of the Guyana Prison Service, o f 4 2 Ly n g S t r e e t , Charlestown, Georgetown, yesterday made another court appearance before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty and was remanded to prison.

When the matter was called, the virtual complainant told the court that even though Selman is in prison, he has access to a cell phone that he used to make several phone calls to her and threatened to kill her when he is released from prison.

At a previous court hearing, the 43-year-old defendant threatened to burn the alleged victim in his case if granted bail, while he was downstairs at the prisoners lock-up at the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts.

Selman had denied the charge which stated that on February 2, 2020 at Lyng Street, Charlestown, he used threatening language towards Donella Andrews.

It was further alleged that

on the same day and at the same location, he contravened a protection order made on July 16, 2018, in relation to Donella Andrews, by coming within 50 feet of her and holding her hand.

Police prosecutor Delon Sullivan told the court that he contacted the Director of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels, who confirmed that a search was conducted in Selman's prison cell and a cell phone was discovered.

The Prosecutor added that Samuels noted that after the cell phone was discovered, Selman was placed in solitary confinement.

Attorney-at-law Leslie Sobers, who is now representing Selman, told the court that at this point everything the virtual complainant said to the court about the new threats made by his client are only allegations.

The virtual complainant then told the court that Selman called her on 'private', but she recognized his voice, and that the threats were made. The lawyer then added that he was assured by his client that he would not make contact with the virtual

Remanded: George Selman complainant or go anywhere near her.

The court heard that the defendant is in the habit of showing up at the virtual complainant's workplace and making threats. The defendant's action left not only the virtual complainant scared, but also her colleagues.

After listening to the prosecutor, lawyer and the virtual complainant, Magistrate McGusty told the

defendant that he is “a good pickle”, the longer he stays the hotter he gets.

The Magistrate added that the safety of the virtual complainant is important to the court and that she thought since the defendant is in prison he would have 'cooled off' by now.

Magistrate McGusty then transferred the matter to another court for trial and remanded the defendant to prison.

in Guyana is like landing on the moon,” he said.

H o w e v e r, M a n g a l warned that because of the changes in global energy use, Guyana has a small window of opportunity to make the most of its oil extraction.

“The global economy is transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable sources of energy. Fossil fuels are also being used less in electricity generation.

The window of opportunity for Guyana is closing fast and the country must act with a true sense of urgency,” said Mangal.

“The country has an unprecedented opportunity for a paradigm shift. But time is pressing.

Our goal must be to produce 2 to 3 million barrels of oil a day as quickly as possible. Otherwise, there is a danger that we cannot benefit as a society from this resource.”

Commenting on what

could possibly work as a model to ensure that Guyana's oil revenues are well spent, Mangal suggested the creation of a household fund in which every Guyanese is a stakeholder.

“That fund should receive 60-70% of the oil revenues. Each citizen can draw a certain amount of funds for house building, education or health.

That way everyone can decide for themselves whether they want to build a house, utilize private health insurance and or send their children to private schools.

This stimulates the construction sector and positive, constructive competition between the state and the private sector.

This would really be a step towards modernization and poverty reduction lifting every Guyanese household out of poverty within a decade,” said Mangal.

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 12, 2020

PAGE 21

Guyana records first coronavirus case E

ven as elections tension continues to grip the land, the local Ministry of Public Health has confirmed Guyana's first case of the novel coronarvirus [COVID-19]. The victim, Ratna Baboolall said to be in her 50s and suffering from underlying conditions, was pronounced dead yesterday morning at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

The woman this publication understands was rushed from a Good Hope, East Coast Demerara residence to the hospital with pneumonia-like symptom consistent with an advanced phase of the virus, on a weakened immune system.

When contacted last evening, an individual close to the family of the now dead woman said that after she started developing worrying symptoms, she was rushed to a private doctor's clinic in Lusignan, but the practitioner was not available at the time. The woman was subsequently taken to a private hospital where her condition was assessed and a decision was made to refer her to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), the country's lone tertiary health facility.

This publication understands that the Ministry has since been in contact with the private hospital to provide globally accepted sanitation measures.

Although the individual confirmed that health officials have since reached out to the family, this publication was unable to ascertain the number of persons the woman might have been in contact with since being infected. This publication however understands that the woman came in from the United

- victim died yesterday after arriving recently from NY

Coronavirus victim: Ratna Baboolall

Rumours were circulating that the A&E Unit of the GPHC was on lock down yesterday morning States recently.

The first local case comes even as St Vincent records its first and Jamaica records its second. It is moreover being viewed as an imported case. While preliminary tests for the virus are conducted at the National Public Health R e f e r e n c e L a b o r a t o r y, confirmatory tests are done at the Caribbean Public Health Agency and other laboratories that the local health sector has aligned itself with.

The novel coronavirus first emerged in Wuhan, China, during the latter part of last year. The virus which has since expanded its reach to some 50 countries has infected more than 80,000 and more than 3,000 have reportedly died as a result.

Although it is believed that the first had its origin in an animal species, it has since been confirmed that it can now be transmitted from person to person, even indirectly similar to the transmission of a cold or flu virus. Additionally, persons

The body of the woman being taken to the mortuary

are encouraged to help safeguard themselves by embracing hygienic practices such as washing or sanitising the hands regularly.

The elderly and persons with underlying conditions are also encouraged to isolate themselves from persons who are suspected to have been infected with the virus. Also persons can seek to further ward off the virus by wearing the N95-type face mask.

During a press briefing held yesterday at the National Cultural Centre, Director of Medical and Professional Services at the GPHC, Dr. Fawcett Jeffrey, disclosed that a 52-year-old female who previously travelled from Queens, New York, USA, visited the hospital on Tuesday evening and “presented herself with

“uncontrolled diabetes and hypotension” D r. J e f f r e y s t a t e d “Because of this co-morbid condition that she had, she succumbed and had to be intubated and resuscitated.

Resuscitation succeeded but at about 8:00am this [yesterday] morning she succumbed.”

Following the episode, an investigation was launched and samples were taken to the National Reference Lab. Following the woman's death there were rumours that the Accident and Emergency Department unit of the public hospital was temporarily shut down. This was categorically debunked by the Public Health Minister.

Also addressing the inaugural case yesterday was Chief Medical Officer

Porters at the GPHC outfitted in safety gear to safeguard themselves

[CMO], Dr. Shamdeo Persaud, who emphasized that Guyanese should seek to establish the same measure of control, “regardless of what sort of diseases have surfaced”.

He said that, “There are a lot of diseases that may not be as high profile as the COVID-19, but have similar types of consequences, so we should always take precautions.”

Prior to Guyana confirming its first case, a series of reports were made on social media regarding suspected and/or confirmed cases of COVI-19.

Against this backdrop, PAHO-WHO representative Dr. William Adu-Krow explained the differences between suspected, probable and confirmed cases. He said to members of the media that what is termed as a suspected case is when a patient with an acute respiratory illness or disease, has fever, and at least one other sign or symptom, such as coughing or shortness of breath.

The doctor expressed that “We cannot say that someone has the disease until we have gone through

the full spectrum. The person can also be considered as a suspected case if the patient has acute illness and has been in contact with COVID-19.”

Another definition of a suspected case is when someone has an acute respiratory illness or disease and they require hospitalization.

An inconclusive test result of a patient could be deemed as a probable one, said Dr. Adu-Krow who went on to note that “If it is inconclusive, to err on the side of caution, we would say that it is a probable case.”

T h e PA H O / W H O representative reiterated that one could only confirm the case when the samples that have been taken to the lab return as positive.

Moreover, Public Health M i n i s t e r , M s . Vo l d a Lawrence, is urging the public to disregard unconfirmed reports trending on social media and not to make assumptions based on these. “I ask all Guyanese to please check your sources before you spread misinformation,” the Minister appealed.

PAGE 22

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 12, 2020

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VIENNA (Reuters) - One of the three sites in Iran about which the U.N. nuclear watchdog says it has raised questions that Tehran has failed to answer may have hosted uranium metal, the United States said yesterday, providing new details on the locations.

The International Atomic Energy Agency policing Iran's troubled nuclear deal with major powers rebuked Tehran last week for failing to reply to its questions about nuclear activities dating back to the early 2000s at three sites and for denying its inspectors access to two of them.

Uranium metal has long been an issue of interest to the IAEA in investigating Iran's past work. In 2005 Iran handed the IAEA a 15-page document given to it by a nuclear black market network showing how to make two uranium metal half-spheres like those that often make up the core of an atomic bomb.

“Iran has refused to address the agency's questions regarding possible undeclared natural uranium at a location that has been heavily sanitized,” the United States said in a statement to the IAEA's quarterly 35-nation

Board of Governors meeting, using a term that often refers to construction or demolition work aimed at removing traces of nuclear material.

“In the agency's assessment, the nuclear material in question may potentially be uranium metal,” the U.S. statement said.

The special IAEA report to the board made no mention of uranium metal, though the reference to natural uranium indicates that the uranium was not enriched for use as nuclear fuel.

Iran has long maintained that it did not ask for the uranium metal document given to it by the network that help it set up a secret uranium enrichment program exposed in the early 2000s. During its years-long investigation of Iran, the IAEA sought to find out to what extent Iran worked on uranium metal.

U.S. intelligence agencies and the IAEA believe Iran had a secret nuclear weapons program that it halted in 2003.

While Iran's 2015 deal with major powers largely drew a line under its past nuclear activity, the IAEA must also account for all nuclear material in Iran regardless of when it

was produced.

“Any refusal to cooperate with the IAEA on questions of possible undeclared nuclear material would be of serious proliferation concern,” said the statement by the United States, which exited the deal in 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Iran.

“But given the potential for use of uranium metal in nuclear weapons research and development activities, the presence of even small quantities of undeclared uranium metal in Iran today would raise even more worrying questions,” it added.

One of the two sites the IAEA sought to inspect and was denied access to could have hosted “activities potentially related to uranium conversion”, a process that precedes enrichment in the fuel cycle, the U.S. statement said.

When asked about the U.S. allegations, Iran's ambassador to the IAEA, Kazem Gharibabadi, said that reports on such issues are confidential. “Iran ... is not going into detail on the confidential issues,” he said.

The Islamic Republic denies ever seeking nuclear weapons.

Trump curbs travel from Europe...

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In Washington state, Seattle Public Schools announced the cancellation of all classes and other activities, including childcare and athletics, for at least two weeks starting on Thursday in a measure designed to “disrupt widespread infection” by the coronavirus.

The closure, idling some 53,000 students, is believed to mark the first U.S. big-city school district to halt instruction due to the coronavirus.

Washington state has documented 366 coronavirus cases, including 29 deaths, most of them concentrated in the Seattle area around a long-term care facility in the suburb of Kirkland. There were 1,281 cases in total in the United States, according to a Johns Hopkins University tally.

The World Health Organization described the coronavirus, which emerged late last year in China, as a

pandemic on Wednesday for the first time.

Social and public routines have seen widespread disruptions in the United States for weeks, with concerts and conferences canceled and universities closing their campuses as they shift to online instruction. Public gatherings have been suspended in a coronavirus “hot zone” in New Rochelle, a New York City suburb.

Democratic presidential contenders Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders were reassessing how to campaign in the face of the spreading outbreak.

Thursday March 12, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 23

Repairs commence for damaged Harbour Bridge Hydraulic Cabin - Should be completed by Friday

M

arine Traffic will soon be back on stream following Monday evening's mishap on the Demerara Harbour Bridge, which caused severe damage to the Hydraulic Cabin that is responsible for retractions.

Kaieteur News was informed that the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC) has completed its assessment of the damage sustained and has started repairs.

General Manager of the DHBC, Rawlston Adams, told the media that the new components for the hydraulic cabin would be made at the entity's workshop. “We will install offsite, do some testing and then we will bring it back to the bridge and hopefully install the cabin on the bridge by Friday,� Adams explained.

After the reinstallation of the repaired cabin, the DHBC will determine the earliest possible time retraction can resume, accommodating the passage of marine traffic.

On Monday evening at around 11:00pm, a driver lost control of his Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) while travelling on the Demerara Harbour Bridge and slammed into the Hydraulic Cabin before careening overboard. He was pulled from the SUV, escaping without injures, but the vehicle is still submerged in the river.

The accident put a temporary halt to bridge retractions as the damage to the cabin prevents the bridge from being opened.

Workers assessing the damage to the Hydraulic Cabin

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 12, 2020

Thursday March 12, 2020

PAGE 25

Kaieteur News

Kingston City Marathons, 10K and 5K Hetmyer, Shepherd and Paul back for Jaguars cancelled due to COVID-19 threat

Nicola Madden Greig

Jamaica Observer - The Kingston City Marathon (KCM), scheduled for Sunday, has been cancelled.

This is in response to the Ministry of Health’s recommendation that public gatherings be discouraged and following Tuesday’s announcement of Jamaica’s first “imported” case of the coronavirus (COVID- 19) along with advice from multiple sources, including the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Health & Wellness (MOHW), and Kingston City Marathons own health team.

Nicola Madden Greig, cochair of KCM which benefits several local charities, said that, “all was in place for the

Thursday March 12, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Stop being an enabler to someone you care about.

You may let someone continue a dangerous addictive behavior simply because you want to avoid a confrontation.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Stop hiding behind your intellectual barrier, Libra. Playing games will get you nowhere. True strength is standing up and demonstrating that you can say what you feel in any situation.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You may have some issues with food, Taurus. Maybe your sense of self-worth isn't at its highest, and you're trying to make up for this by sabotaging your relationship with your body.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Stop trying to feel everyone else's emotions and focus on yours. Being empathetic is certainly laudable, but at some point you need to face the music and look in the mirror.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) If there's an issue with your partner that needs airing, this is a good time to do it, Gemini. Don't hold back just to maintain the equilibrium in the relationship.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) The intensity of the day may bring unexpected opposition, Cancer. Whether it's verbalized or not, the confrontations are quite real.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Give your loved ones the attention they need today, Leo. Don't let another day go by without saying you love them. Life is short and getting shorter with each passing day.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Don't run away from the tension today, Virgo. Any emotional stress you feel will be compounded if it isn't dealt with right away.

Be in the moment while the moment is here.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) It may seem like neither side of the bed is the right side to wake up on today, Sagittarius. The only solution may be is to just go back to dreamland if you can.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You may feel like you're being double-crossed by a loved one today, Capricorn.

Maybe your words are being used against you in such a way that makes you look like the bad guy.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You may say one thing one minute and the opposite the next, Aquarius.

Most of the time you jump from one issue to the next with no hassle, but today people probably will call you on it.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) The tension in the air might be what you need in order to become more aware of subconscious issues that affect your behavior, Pisces.

eighth staging of the annual event this Sunday.

However, we are mindful of our responsibility to comply with the mandates of the Ministry of Health as we all work to prevent the potential for community spread of the coronavirus.

“We have taken the difficult decision after serious deliberations. While we know everyone was excited to participate in this year ’s event, the health and safety of all our participants is paramount,” she explained.

“We wish to thank all our sponsors, participants, and volunteers for their continued support.”

The four-race KCR which includes a marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K race/ walk, annually attracts over 5,000 participants and spectators from several Caribbean islands and other countries including Ireland, the UK, Denmark, Japan, Spain, Canada, China, and the USA. Apart from walking or running, the scenic Kingston route takes participants through public attractions such as Devon House and the residence of the governor general, Kings House.

KCM participants also enjoy a range of complementary events including a pre-race welcome party on Friday and the Lifestyle Health and Fitness Expo on Saturday.

Both these events have also been cancelled. Madden Greig said that KCM will honour registrations already paid for the now cancelled 2020 race when KCM resumes in 2021.

West Indies Romario Shepherd, Keemo Paul and Shimron Hetmyer have returned from the West Indies tour of Sri Lanka and have been included in a strong Guyana Jaguars 13man Squad to face leaders Barbados Pride from 14:00hrs today in a Day/ Night fixture at Providence.

The trio replaces Tevin Imlach, Keon Joseph and Nial Smith for the squad which drew with the Windwards in the last match.

There was no room in the squad for Sherfane Rutherford.

The full squad is Leon Johnson (Captain) Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Shimron Hetmyer, Vishaul Singh, Chris Barnwell, Anthony Bramble, Romario Shepherd, Raymon Reifer, Keemo Paul, Veerasammy Permaul, Gudakesh Motie, Kevin Sinclair, Akshaya Persaud, Esuan Crandon (Head Coach), Julian Moore (Asst Coach/Manager) Neil Barry jr (Physiotherapist).

FIFA reschedules Congress due to virus outbreak ZURICH (Reuters) - FIFA has pushed back its Congress to September from June due to the coronavirus outbreak, the world soccer body said

yesterday.

The 70th FIFA Congress will now be held on Sept. 18 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, it said in a statement.

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 12, 2020

Secure Innovations and Concepts Chile to quarantine returning Inc. makes good on promise to soccer stars Alexis Sanchez and tennis prodigy, Jasmine Billingy Arturo Vidal: health ministry Nine year-old tennis sensation and student of Winfer Garden Primary, Jasmine Billingy, the reigning national Under-11, 13 and 21 champion has continued to show her class even at this tender age, when she gave her opponents in neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago, a taste of her class.

Billingy, who resides in Adelaide Street Charlestown and sponsored by Secure Innovations and Concepts Inc, last weekend took the Twin Island Republic by storm when she won the Silver Bowl Under-11 tournament and took the runner-up spot in the Under13 category, there.

Described as a sensational player by Managing Director and Owner of Secure Innovations & Concepts Inc., Harold ‘Top Gun’ Hopkinson, Billingy was promised that if she had won her category, she would be the recipient of a spanking new cycle; the rest is now history.

In the Under-11 final, Billingy defeated Ashley Mohammed 3-1 (8-11, 11-5, 11-3, 11-7) and in a close Under-13 final, she lost 1-3 (11-5, 8-11, 11-13, 10-12) to T&T’s #1 player in this category, Chloe Fraser.

Billingy’s Coach, Colin France commended his

Jasmine Billingy (left) display her U-11 trophy with 2nd placed, Ashley Mohammed. charge for another sterling performance noting that: “We just have to keep working and improving our speed and

Jasmine Billingy (left) with the Under-13 winner, Chloe Fraser.

fitness, technique and tactics.

Jasmine is a diligent and hardworking player who is very enthusiastic when it comes to learning the things that would enhance her game.”

Aviation Director of Secure Innovation & Concept Inc., Denzel Hopkinson, himself a former National Junior Tennis and reigning Doubles Champion, made good on the promise his dad had made to Billingy and promptly presented her with a brand new cycle on her return to Guyana.

The young Hopkinson, in presenting the gift, said that his company is more than happy to be supporting a talented player who has the world at her feet once she remains focused and disciplined.

“Young Billingy has a bright future ahead of her and we at Secure Innovations have no doubt that she would make herself and country proud.

We are also confident that with Coach France guiding and steering her, she would succeed in her endeavours.

Secure Innovations and Concepts would continue to support this young prodigy.”

(Franklin Wilson)

SANTIAGO (Reuters) Chilean soccer stars Alexis Sanchez and Arturo Vidal will be quarantined when they return to their home country from Europe to play in a World Cup qualifier this month, Chile’s health minister said on Tuesday.

The players - who are signed to European clubs - are due to fly first to Uruguay for a World Cup qualifier on March 26 and then to Chile to face Colombia.

Italy announced a quarantine and advised against all but non-essential travel until April 3 after its death toll from coronavirus jumped by 168 to 631 this week.

“We do not make any distinction by people’s profession because nobody is immune to this virus and indeed the quarantine determined today for Italy applies to everyone,” said Health Minister Jaime Mañalich, according to local news website Emol.

“Of course, if these players want to work out on a machine in their homes, or all be quarantined together at Juan Pinto Duran (the national football stadium), then that’s their call.”

A source at the Football Federation of Chile told Emol it had been told nothing about quarantine plans for the players.

Chile’s Alexis Sanchez reacts during an International Friendly versus Colombia in Spain. (REUTERS/Javier Barbancho) “So far there are no changes to our plans,” a source said. “What the minister says comes as a surprise.”

Spain has suspended flights from Italy and also advised against all nonessential travel. It has so far reported 36 deaths and 1,639 confirmed cases. Italy has at least 10,149.

Alexis Sánchez plays for Inter Milan and Vidal plays for FC Barcelona. Another Chilean player likely to be impacted is Gary Medel, who plays for the Italian club Bologna.

Sanchez’s team has been

playing Serie A matches in empty stadiums after the Italian government banned large gatherings last week. At around the same time, there was a flurry of claims on social media that Sanchez himself may have contracted the coronavirus - reports later explained by a poor translation of a story about Sanchez’s team being impacted by the games ban.

Chile is tracking people returning from countries affected by coronavirus in a bid to contain its spread. So far, 17 cases have been confirmed in the South American country.

Kerr on target again as Australia earn ticket to Olympics HONG KONG (Reuters) Australia sealed their place in the Tokyo Olympics’ women’s football tournament on Wednesday as a 2-1 away win over Vietnam completed a 7-1 aggregate victory.

Ante Milicic’s side had all but guaranteed their progress to the finals following a 5-0 first leg win in Australia last week and Sam Kerr, who scored twice in the opening meeting, was on target again to put the outcome beyond doubt.

The Chelsea striker sidefooted a volley home 15 minutes into the first half and, 12 minutes later, set up Hayley Raso to stroke home Australia’s second.

Chloe Logarzo missed the opportunity to further increase Australia’s lead from the penalty spot before the break, while Huynh Nhu’s effort 10 minutes into the second half was little more

Australia’s Sam Kerr celebrates scoring their first goal before it was disallowed after a VAR review.

(REUTERS/Jean-Paul Pelissier/File Photo) than a consolation for the outclassed Vietnamese.

The Matildas join hosts Japan in representing the Asian Football Confederation at the 12-team Olympic

tournament during the summer. They will be joined by the winners of the playoff between South Korea and China, which will be played in June.

Thursday March 12, 2020

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Kaieteur News

Sergeant guides Ramsarran XI to Khan’s Trading Enterprise softball title

Ricky Sergeant collects his prize from Trisha Balram of Khan’s Trading Enterprise.

Ricky Sergeant followed up his century in the semi final with an unbeaten half century to guide Keisho Ramsarran XI to a nine-wicket win over Patrick Khan XI in the final of the Khan’s Trading Enterprise 10-over softball competition on Sunday last at Farm, East Bank Demerara.

Set 88 to win, Sergeant hammered one four and seven sixes in a top score of 53 as his team achieved their target in 6.1 overs for the loss of one wicket.

Keisho Ramsarran accepts the winning prizes from Joy Ann Bethune.

Sergeant and fellow opener Michael Alexander put their team on course with a stand of 73 before Alexander departed for 22 with one four and two sixes. Ricky Debidyal remained unbeaten on six when victory was achieved; Anthony Persaud took 1-9.

Earlier, Khan’s XI opted to bat and were bowled out off the last ball of the 10th over.

Raymond Sanika made 23 which included three sixes, while the experienced Imtiaz Mohamed hit three sixes in

scoring 19 off four balls and Patrick Khan contributed 10.

Skipper Ramsarran grabbed 49 while Alexander took 2-7.

Ramsarran XI beat Vick XI by 41 runs in their semi final encounter. Ramsarran XI posted 159-2 after they were inserted. Sergeant clobbered two fours and 16 sixes in a robust 115.

He added 94 for the second wicket with Ricky Debidyal after Michael Alexander fell for 15. Debidyal made 14; Rawl Reid and Unnis

Members of the victorious Keisho Ramsarran XI with their prizes.

Yusuf took one wicket each.

Vick XI responded with 118-5. Buddan Baksh scored 33; Reid got 18 and Yusuf 14.

Sergeant and Alexander took one wicket apiece.

Khan XI overcame Third Street by eight wickets in their semi final game. Third Street took first strike and managed 60-9. Sudesh Persaud scored 17 as Patrick

Khan and Navin Singh took two wickets each. Khan XI replied with 61-2 in 5.2 overs.

Imtiaz Mohamed made 21.

Ramsarran was given the prizes for taking the best catch and being the best bowler, Debidyal was adjudged the best fielder and Sergeant received the best batsman accolade. Khan’s XI received a trophy and $15,000 and

Ramsarran XI a trophy and $30,000. As part of the dayof-sport, there were a number of track and novelty events held.

Chief Executive Officer of Khan’s Trading Enterprise Patrick Khan congratulated the winners and thanked the participating teams, athletes and fans for their support.

(Zaheer Mohamed)

German footballer contracts coronavirus as Bundesliga goes behind closed doors AFP - A second division footballer was yesterday the first player to test positive for coronavirus in Germany as RB Leipzig became the last Bundesliga side to announce that they would hold their weekend match behind closed doors.

Hanover 96 revealed that defender Timo Huebers had tested positive for COVID-19, saying in a statement that they insisted that no further infections were expected, as Huebers had avoided contact with his colleagues.

Their full squad and training staff were however being tested as a precaution.

“As soon as he found out that someone with whom he had been at an event was tested positive, Timo went straight to the doctor and put himself into isolation,” said Hanover’s sporting director Gerhard Zuber.

Leipzig’s announcement that their clash with Freiburg would be closed to fans means that all weekend Bundesliga games will be played without fans after similar announcements

Leipzig played their 3-0 UEFA Champions League win over Tottenham in front of fans before closing the Red Bull Arena to supporters for the weekend. (AFP / John MacDougall) involving title rivals Bayern Munich and Borussia Moenchengladbach earlier yesterday.

As the number of confirmed infections in Germany continues to rise, federal states in the country are taking measures to cancel public events and slow the

spread of the virus.

O n S u n d a y, G e r m a n health minister Jens Spahn called for all events with more than 1,000 people to be cancelled “until further notice”.

But the decision to close stadium doors rests ultimately with regional authorities and

is made on a case-by-case basis.

Fans will also be absent for Bayern Munich’s visit to Union Berlin on Saturday, after officials in the German capital ordered the club to close its doors yesterday.

Elsewhere, Eintracht

Frankfurt announced yesterday that they would play their Bundesliga home clash with Borussia Moenchengladbach on Sunday without fans.

Yet in a joint press conference with city health officials, the club also said that the stadium would remain

open for today’s Europa League clash with Swiss side Basel.

Moenchengladbach’s home ground is in North Rhine-Westphalia state, where the biggest number of coronavirus infections in Germany have been reported.

Of 1,296 infections across the country, 484 were registered in the state, which is Germany’s most populous.

Other games affected in North-Rhine Westphalia this week include the Ruhr derby between Borussia Dortmund and Schalke and the Rhine derby between Moenchengladbach and Cologne.

The latter game, scheduled for last night, will be the first in the history of the German league to be played without fans.

Meanwhile, yesterday Wolfsburg’s sporting director Jorg Schmadtke said that he would “not allow” his club’s players to go away on international duty this month, when the play-offs for Euro 2020 are set to be staged.

“My state of mind at the moment is not to let our players go.

I will ban it,” Schmadtke was quoted as saying in the German press.

PAGE 28

Thursday March 12, 2020

Kaieteur News

CWI Regional four-day cricket

Do or die! Jaguars face B’dos pride in Day/Night affair at Providence - Positivity the key for full strength hosts

By Sean Devers In what is anticipated to their toughest and most important assignment yet, mentally, technically and tactically; Guyana Jaguars make a last ditch effort to keep hopes alive of lifting an unprecedented six consecutive CWI Regional four-day cricket title when they face off with Barbados Pride from 14:00hrs today at Providence in a Day/Night fixture which promises to be a pulsating contest.

Barbados are the most successful Regional Firstclass team with 21 titles since capturing the inaugural Shell Shield trophy in 1966 but they have not won a title since 2014 when Guyana began their five-year winning streak.

When the two teams last met in Barbados the home side beat Guyana by seven wickets despite half centuries from Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Vishaul Singh.

Barbados have not beaten Guyana at Providence since their round of the 2015 season, when set 69 to win the hosts were bowled out for 67 as medium pacer Dwayne Smith bagged a five-wicket haul. In the four matches at Providence since then Guyana has won three while the other one was drawn.

The Bajans sit on top of the points table on 116 points, 30.2 more than second

placed Guyana. The maximum points a team can get is 24 so even if Guyana beat Barbados they will still maintain the lead.

It is that a Jaguar is most dangerous when wounded and today the Guyana Jaguars need be aggressive and demonstrate positivity to win.

To win the title Jaguars will need to win their last two games and hope that Barbados lose their last two games, but winning this game is imperative in the first step of winning their 13th title since Rohan Kanhai led them to their first in 1973.

West Indies trio of Shimron Hetymer, Romario Shepherd and Kemo Paul are back and replaces Nial Smith, Keon Joseph and Tevin Imlach as the Jaguars go into battle with a full strength team.

It is very unlikely that Guyana will get 24 points from this game since left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul (49 wickets) is in red hot form and for them to achieve the maximum points the pacers will have to take all 20 wickets.

Guyana will need Skipper and leading run score Leon Johnson, Vishaul Singh and especially Tagenarine Chanderpaul, whose strike rate is 26.2, to score quicker if the home team hope to make 400 runs in 110 overs to get the maximum batting points.

Barbados team practicing yesterday at Providence.

The return of Hetmyer, who played one match before leaving for the t20 series against Sri Lanka, is welcomed news and he could be asked to open the batting with Chanderpaul since Chanderpaul Hemraj is not yet fully fit.

With Johnson and Barnwell, the only Guyanese with hundreds this season, in good form as well as Singh who has been dismissed in the 90s twice, the top order is capable laying the foundation for a massive score on what could be a slow, spin friendly track.

And with Anthony Bramble being able to score quickly as does fast bowling all-rounders Shepherd and Paul the batting looks sound.

The bowling will be

spearheaded by Permaul, while the fast bowling department is strengthened by the return of Paul and Shepherd.

Nial Smith with 20 wickets in his debut season could feel a bit unlucky to be left out since Reifer and Barnwell could bowl seam and Gudakesh Motie should partner Permaul. Kevin Sinclair and Akshaya Persaud could be the two carrying drinks.

Barbados will bank on their powerhouse batting for a rare victory in Guyana in recent times since 27-year-old Kyle Mayers has scored both of their First-Class centuries in addition to five fifties this season in which his 630 runs at an average of 57.2 and a strike rate 82.67.

Mayers, who is the only batsman to reach 600, will expect support from Shane Moseley (475 runs with a ton and two fifties), West Indies players Kraigg Brathwaite, Shane Dowrich and Shamarh Brooks. Jason Holder is also back and expected to play a critical role today.

The bowling should be spearheaded by 22-year-old Chemar Holder who has 34 wickets, 23-year-old Keon Harding (29) and the experienced Kemar Roach (21). The trio has been responsible for the Bajans having the most ‘fast bowling’ points this season. Ashley Nurse (10) and Jomal Warrican (13) will offer spin support.

Barbados Head Coach Emerson Trotman said the

team has been executing their plans well and that Barbados are eager to lock horns with Guyana.

“Every game is important to us and Guyana has won for the last five years so that says they have being playing good cricket. A win here will mean that nobody can catch us, so yes this is a very important game for us,” Trotman said.

The former Barbados batsman said, while Roston Chase and Shai Hope are being rested for this round, the return of Holder is welcomed by the side.

“Holder brings his experience to the side and plays a big role in the dressing room among the youngsters,” concluded Trotman.

Andrew Ifill knockout basketball tourney launched

By Calvin Chapman The Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) launched the inaugural Andrew Ifill knockout basketball tournament yesterday at Palm Court on Main Street.

The tournament bounces off this Sunday March 15th at the Burnham Court on Middle and Carmichael Streets where it will be played throughout until the final on April 5th that is being mooted to be played at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) on Homestretch Avenue.

This is the first tournament that will be played under the recently elected new Executive Committee of GABA that is headed by Jermaine Slater.

Public Relations executive of GABA, Rawle Toney explained that, “We chose to name the tournament after former National player Andrew Ifill, who passed away last year, is because we want to honour his name. Ifill was an exceptional player for

Team representative and executives pose for a photo at yesterday’s launch, from left, Dominic Vincente, Dennis Clarke, Jermaine Slater, Rawle Toney, Adrian Hooper and Warren Wilson.

Guyana. We want his name and legacy to live on as long as possible.”

The tournament will be played in the under-21 and open divisions with the second division being

scraped from the GABA setup.

Slater, who was also present at the launch, noted that, “Our executive has moved away from second division basketball to ensure

everyone gets a chance to play because many guys don’t get a chance to play because there are only so many slots in the first division teams. So now, clubs will be afforded the chance to putforward at least

two open teams in addition to theunder-21 team.”

The tournament has a total of 13 teams contesting in the open division and six teams in the under-21 division and is being sponsored by

GABA. When quizzed on whether the current political situation has affected GABA in organising and getting sponsors on board due to the fact that the Ifill tourney is self-sponsored, Toney cited that, “The current political climate has not affected us, we haven’t really thought about it in organising this tournament because we want potential sponsors/partners to know that basketball will continue regardless.”

He further added that, “We are trying to give basketball a brand. We want to put a product out so sponsors can see what they are getting. We want persons looking in to see that we have a structure and a smooth process going on and we welcome any impetus from the corporatecommunity.”

The Andrew Ifill championship trophy for the open division has been sponsored by the former player’s club; Bounty Colts and by extension, Bounty Farm.

Thursday March 12, 2020

Americas Olympic Qualifier for boxing cancelled due to coronavirus fears The Guyana Boxing Association has been informed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Americas Boxing Confederation (AMBC) that the Americas Olympic Qualifier for boxing has been cancelled because of fear of spread of the Coronavirus.

The Qualifier was scheduled for March 26 to April 4 in Buenos Aries, Argentina.

Guyana was scheduled to send a team of five boxers and three coaches to the tournament. GBA president Steve Ninvalle called the cancellation a major setback but reasoned that it was done for the safety of all involved.

“We have already spent a hefty sum securing tickets and insurance for the boxers and coaches,” those monies are not refundable. We had also timed preparation of four of the boxers to peak just before the Qualifier. We will now have to await information from the IOC regarding if there would be a rescheduling,” Ninvalle said.

“The spread of the Coronavirus is a very serious issue and for that alone we accept without reservation the decision to cancel the tournament.”

With the support of the

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

West Indies O-50s vs New Zealand O-50s

Mohammed, Fareed shine but West Indies go down to New Zealand

Fareed Hosein successfully appeals for a LBW against Neil Ronaldson.

Steve Ninvalle Guyana Olympic Association and the Government the GBA dispatched Keevin Allicock, Desmond Amsterdam, Colin Lewis and Dennis Thomas for a three- month trading stint in Cuba. The stint is scheduled to conclude next week. They would have been joined by Canada-based Taveena Kum at the Qualifiers. The coaches were Terrence Poole MS, Sebert Blake and Cuban Francisco Roldan.

Ninvalle said that he has sent off a message informing

the boxers and had called president of the GOA K. Juman Yassin SC, AA to update him. Efforts to contact Director of Sport Christopher Jones proved futile.

Meanwhile, Ninvalle informed that in light of the recent cancellation, the GBA is planning an international card for early April. “We have to make sure that at least the four from Cuba remain active.

I am in discussion with Trinidad and hopefully by weekend we will have concrete information.”

Saudi Aramco partners with Formula One LONDON (Reuters) - State-owned Saudi Aramco announced a long-term global sponsorship deal with Formula One on Tuesday in what could also be another step towards the country eventually hosting a grand prix.

Aramco said the move was the energy giant’s first global sponsorship of a major sporting event.

Formula One added that Aramco will be title sponsors of the U.S., Spanish and Hungarian Grands Prix this season with trackside branding at most races.

The oil and gas company will also feature in Formula One’s integrated digital platforms and broadcasts and joins a group of six global partners along with DHL, Emirates, Heineken,

Saudi Aramco logo is pictured at the oil facility in Abqaiq, Saudi Arabia October 12, 2019.

(REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov/File Photo)

Pirelli and Rolex.

Formula One said the sport and Aramco will together “identify opportunities for the advancement of sustainable fuels, enhanced engine efficiencies and emerging mobility technology.”

Saudi Arabia and Formula One have been discussing the possibility of holding a race in the country for some time.

The Middle East already hosts two races, at Sakhir in Bahrain and Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina, with lucrative long-term contracts in place. Saudi Arabia already features on the all-electric Formula E calendar and hosted its first race in 2018 on a street circuit at Ad Diriyah, near Riyadh.

Saudi companies have been involved in Formula One in the past, with Albilad and the national airline Saudia sponsoring Williams to their first title in 1980.

‘Spin twins’ Fareed Hosein and Azad Mohammed engineered a batting meltdown then threatened with the bat but could not deliver the knock-out punch as West Indies Over-50s lost to New Zealand Over-50s by 36 runs in their Over-50s Cricket World Cup opener at Rondebosch yesterday.

The Caribbean side opted to bowl on a green track with bounce and carry but were doubting themselves when New Zealand raced to 124 for 2 in quick time. However, offspinner Mohammed (25/3) and leggie Hosein (3/46) combined for figures of 18-171-6 to bowl out the opposition for 186 in 44 overs.

Captain of New Zealand and later Player-of-theMatch, Adrian Dale stroked a commanding 56 from 61 balls, batting at number three after openers Richard Petrie and Andrew Hore (17) put on 34.

After hitting three boundaries, Hore was first to go when he miscued a pull to deep midwicket and was caught by Ishwar Maraj off the consistent right arm seamer Kenny Girdharry (23/ 1).

Petrie, who played 12 ODIs for New Zealand, was in a destructive mood hitting

34 from 32 balls (6x4; 1x6), while taking a liking to everything loose from new ball bowlers Girdharry and Allison Johnson (1/31).

However, after adding 29 with his captain, Petrie played down the wrong line and was comprehensively bowled by WI O-50s captain Amin Zamin (1/33) at 63-2.

John Garry then joined his captain to put on 61 for the third wicket before a mix up that resulted in a run out which brought on the great collapse. Garry gone 34 from 61 balls (1x4) and was quickly followed by Hosein’s first victim Mason Robinson for 5 at 146-4.

Dale, who hit 6 fours, then holed out to Krish Harricharan at deep midwicket to give Hosein his second wicket which brought the Caribbean side back into the contest.

Mohammed then got into the act and also picked up wickets at regular intervals which saw the last 7 New Zealand wickets falling for 40 runs with no other batsman getting into double figures.

At the half-way stage of the round one match, West Indies Over-50s were strong favourites to win their debut match in the Over-50s Cricket

World Cup but New Zealand were prepared to fight.

In the run chase, WI O50s lost their first four batsmen to LBW decisions and were pegged back at 46-4 which proved to be the point of no return before Mohammed and Hosein momentarily threatened.

Right-hander Mohammed batting at number 5, hit the top score of 35 (60 balls; 5x4), while Hosein the south paw made 24 (50 balls; 1x4) batting at number 7. Earlier, opener Ishwar Maraj made 25 and number 10 Mark Audain 18 not out as the only batsmen to reach double figures as WI O-50s were bowled out for 150 in 42.5 overs.

The Kiwis bowling was led by right arm seamer Nail Ronaldson with 4/18 and leftarm spinners Andrew Nuttall (2/14) and Glen White (2/33) supporting admirably.

WI O-50s next take on defending champions Australia, while New Zealand O-50s meet Canada in round two matches tomorrow. The other match of the group will bring together Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.

In group B, India take on Pakistan; South Africa battle England and Wales meet Namibia. (John Ramsingh)

Azad Mohammed (right) celebrates bowling Dean Askew at Rondebosch Cricket Club yesterday.

PAGE 30

Thursday March 12, 2020

Kaieteur News

Permaul not looking too far ahead

By Sean Devers Thirty year-old Berbice, Guyana and West Indies leftarm spinner Veerasammy Permaul is one wicket away from taking 50 or more wickets in a single Regional FirstClass season for the third time.

In the 2015 season when Guyana Jaguars began their five-year winning streak, the Albion spinner captured 67 wickets, the most ever taken in a season and with three games to play, including today’s day/night match, the

wily Permaul is well positioned to break his own record.

In 120 First-Class matches, Permaul has taken 535 wickets including 18 from his six Test matches and this season he joined fellow spinners Nickita Miller of Jamaica and Dominican Shane Shillingford as the only bowlers with 500 First-Class wickets in Regional cricket.

Permaul, who also eight wickets from seven ODIs, made his First-Class debut when he took over from Neil

McGarrell in January 2007 when Guyana opposed the Windwards in Grenada.

He has 29 five-wicket and seven 10-wicket match hauls including 15-77 against Jamaica in Jamaica this season when he captured a career best 8-18 in the second innings to spin the Jaguars to victory in three days.

Permaul made his Test debut against Bangladesh in Dhaka in November 2012 as the second spinner to Sunil Narine and his four wickets helped West Indies to a win.

Coronavirus: Three F1 team members in self-isolation at Australian Grand Prix BBC Sport - Two members of the Haas Formula 1 team and one from McLaren are in self-isolation after being tested for coronavirus at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.

The personnel were tested in a medical centre at the Albert Park circuit after showing symptoms of the virus.

They are staying in their hotel rooms as a precaution.

“We expect to receive the results overnight. The team is operating as per our normal schedule,” said McLaren.

A Hass spokesperson said: “Two members of the team have been quarantined and remain in their hotel room. They displayed symptoms of a cold.”

The season-opening Australian Grand Prix

weekend is scheduled to begin on Friday.

The Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) has been informed and is “monitoring the situation in conjunction with Formula 1 and the FIA”.

AGPC chief Andrew Westacott said on Monday that the event will go ahead as normal and fans will still be in attendance, though a number of measures are being put in place as a precaution.

The format of news conferences and media interviews will be changed while fan meet and greets are to be replaced by driver appearances on stage.

Professor Brendan Murphy, the chief medical officer for the Australian government, said that holding Sunday’s race would not pose a risk to public health.

The Bahrain Grand Prix on

20 March will take place without crowds because of the outbreak, while the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai, which was scheduled for 19 April, is the only race to be postponed so far. F1 say it is “taking a scientific approach to the outbreak”, adding that “the health and safety of fans, family and wider communities is always paramount”.

Governing body the FIA have set up a “crisis cell” that meets every two days to analyse the coronavirus situation.

Meanwhile, the Jakarta Formula E race in Indonesia, scheduled for 6 June, has been postponed because of coronavirus.

It is the third Formula E race to be cancelled this season after events in China and Italy.

The way drivers interact with the media and fans is to be altered as a precaution against coronavirus. (Getty Images)

But despite his consistency at Regional level he played the last of his six Tests against Australia in June 2015.

During Guyana’s fiveyear winning streak Permaul was Guyana’s leading wicket taker every season.

“I not looking too far ahead at this time trying to get as many wickets as I can in every game…not looking too far ahead and put too much pressure on myself just go out and play normal cricket that I am playing all the time,” said Permaul after a net session yesterday when asked about breaking his own record this season.

He feels that most batsmen in regional cricket gets frustrated if they have to face a succession of dot balls.

“I think I am successful in Regional cricket because I consistently put the ball in an area. I think patience is the key in Regional Cricket. If you bowl six balls in a particular area something is bound to happen,” Permaul explained for one of the reasons his repeated success in Regional cricket.

Devon Smith was rewarded for making the most runs a few seasons ago with a West Indies recall, but while he would love to be selected again for a Test match his focus is on churning out wickets at the Regional level and since getting back into the West Indies team is not in his control.

“I don’t want to look too far ahead. I can only do what I can control …. doing my best in Regional cricket is

Veerasammy Permaul needs one more wicket to reach 50 wickets in a season for the third time. what I can control, being recalled for the West Indies team is beyond my control at this time.”

After taking 37 wickets for Guyana in the 2012 season, he was selected for his Test debut.

He failed to set the world on fire in his short International Career and was dropped after the ODI at Providence against Pakistan in 2017.

Spin bowlers generally takes the longest time to mature and Permaul said he has learnt a lot during the five years away from the Test arena.

“I think it is the same thing (patience and consistency) apply to Test

cricket …to be patient…be consistent in hitting the right areas.

In the six Test matches I play I wasn’t so consistent and that patient. Over the years I have learnt a lot and I am more patient now,” Permaul said.

One of five players from Albion to play Test cricket, Permaul could play a key role in today’s must win game against Barbados.

“I think we have to give ourselves the best opportunity. I think we are still in with a chance but have to get as much points against Barbados in the game starting tomorrow (today) and take it from there,” concluded Permaul.

Cornelia Ida, McGill Super Stars to clash in WDCA/Beacon Café 50 overs final on Sunday Cornelia Ida and McGill Super Stars of Canal Number One will clash in the final of the West Demerara Cricket Association/Beacon Café 50 overs competition on Sunday at Wales.

Following wins in their respective semi finals last weekend, both teams will fancy their chances of taking the first prize of a trophy and $100,000. The runner’s up will pocket a trophy and $50,000.

Cornelia Ida will be without their Captain Akshaya Persaud who will be on national duties and as a result all-rounder Naveed Ali will lead the side. The Cornelia Ida unit includes Vaickesh Dhaniram, Khellwan Tulcan, Muhamad Wazidali and Richie Looknauth. McGill Super Stars will be led by

Naveed Ali Sudesh Persaud and contain Travis Persaud, one of the leading batsmen in the competition, Kheshram Seyhodan, Abdool Razack and Daniel Basdeo.

The pitch is expected to favour the spinners and action gets underway at 09:00hrs.

Teams; CI- Naveed Ali (Captain), Vaickesh Dhaniram, Khellwan Tulcan, Dhaniram Azamudeen, Harrinarine Bissondyal, Muhamad Wazidali, Richie Looknauth, Arshad Azim, Ajita Persaud, Ravindranauth Seeram, Avishka Ramgobin, Richard Sukhdeo and Zafar Spoke.

McGill Super Stars; Sudesh Persaud (Captain), Daniel Basdeo V. Captain), Travis Persaud, Troy Persaud, Abdool Razack, Balram Aron, Kheshram Seyhodan, Ganesh Puran, Azar Deen, Trevor Lawrie, Diquan Murray, Prahalad Singh and Asif Mohamed.

The umpires for the fixture are A. Fessal and I. Eatwroo with M. Ernest as stand by.

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 12, 2020

PAGE 31

Prize Winners and participants of Orinduik Development Inc.’s 2020 sponsored GSSF Practical Shooting Match.

Orinduik Development Inc. sponsored GSSF’s Practical Shoot

Andrew Phang and Ryan McKinnon emerge victorious

T

he Guyana Sport S h o o t i n g Foundation (GSSF) on Saturday 29thFebruary, 2020 successfully hosted its first Practical Pistol match for the year, sponsored by Orinduik Development Inc. Local practical shooters gathered at the Timehri shooting ranges to take part in an exciting Practical Pistol match which comprised of five challenging but fun stages. The match was conducted by Match Director Mr. David Dharry who declared it open. At the Opening Ceremony Managing Director, Mr. Brian Backer of the s p o n s o r i n g C o m p a n y, delivered brief Remarks and wished competitors all the best for a safe Match.

Shooters participated in 2 divisions, namely the Limited and Production divisions. Each division had its unique requirements and restrictions, as prescribed by the USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association). Since each

division has its own regulations, the shooters do not directly compete with each other across divisions.

As such, prizes were awarded for 1st to 3rd place in each division.

Stages included 5 fun and challenging ones being as follows: ‘Zig-or-Zag challenged shooters’ strategic abilities with multiple possible routes to complete the course of fire.

Reverse Gear tested their ability to shoot from a stable position while moving backward.’

‘4 Bill Drill was a standard exercise, meaning that shooters could compare their scores on that stage with shooters around the world for a skill ranking. It involved drawing from the holster multiple times, rapid magazine changes and firing both right and left-handed.’

‘Go a fish was a fun, quickfire stage which involved rising from a seated position to engage close range targets.’

‘The Ironsides stage rigorously tested the

technique and discipline of the shooters with shooting positions that were u n f a m i l i a r a n d uncomfortable while they a i m e d a t t a rg e t s t h a t demanded high accuracy.

Scores were computed on the go, thanks to the use of electronic scoring methods by way of a special application called Practiscore under the efficient eye of designated Stats Officer for the day, Dr. Pravesh Harry. Match results were announced as follows: Limited Division: 1 s t P l a c e – Ry a n McKinnon (335.4148 Points) 2nd Place – Pravesh Harry (324.8440 Points) 3rd Place – John Phang (225.3842 Points) Production Division: 1st Place – Andrew Phang (351.7516 Points) 2nd Place – David Dharry (230.8017 Points) 3rd Place – Dallas Thomas (185.1150 Points) At the end of the Match, members of the Guyana Sport Shooting Foundation

Side Match Winner: Harold Hopkinson receiving his Placque from Sponsor, Brian Backer of Orinduik Development Inc.

Production Division Winner Mr. Andrew Phang receiving his trophy from sponsor Mr. Brian Backer of Orinduik Development Inc. were all treated to a special Side Match whereby he/she could use any firearm on the Range to engage three steel targets to compete against each other to see who can do so in the fastest time. After many tries and enthused cheering on, Mr. Harold Hopkinson emerged victorious.

The G.S.S.F. would like to extend its sincerest gratitude to Mr. Brian Backer and the Board of Directors of Orinduik Development Inc for the kind sponsorship and support of the Foundation’s activities and events for the 3rd consecutive year.

Orinduik Development Inc. is the 100% Guyanese owned company that is building Guyana’s first commercial Heliport on the Lusignan coast. The primary objective of the proposed heliport is to provide an independent facility for helicopter operations in close proximity to Georgetown, and to facilitate the growing need for such air transport services coming from many sectors, including the extractive industry.

The heliport shall

provide a location for the voluntary basing of helicopter operators providing commercial services (moving people and cargo, mining, tourism, oil industry, construction, agriculture, news and media) from and near Georgetown and is also intended to support the medical, coast guard, security, search and rescue, law enforcement and other emergency services.

The Board of Directors wishes to commend the Match Director, Range Master, Stats Officer, Range Officers and the shooters for ensuring an efficient event.

Special thanks also to the Guyana Defence Force,

Chief of Staff Brigadier Patrick West, Commissioner of Police Mr. Leslie James, Deputy Commissioner of Police Ms. Maxine Graham, OC Mr. Guy Nurse, the ranks of TSU and the Guyana Police Force, the Media and GSSF members for their support in promoting practical shooting locally.

Thanks also to Mr. Harold Hopkinson for the use of his personal props, steel plates, poppers and targets stands for some of the stages.

More information on the Guyana Sport Shooting Foundation can be found on o u r w e b s i t e : www.GuyanaSportShooting .com.

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Limited Division Winner Mr. Ryan McKinnon receiving his trophy from sponsor Mr. Brian Backer of Orinduik Development Inc. Aviation Director of Secure Innovations and Concepts Inc., Denzel Hopkinson (right) pictured with Jasmine Billingy and her Coach, Colin France following the presentation of the cycle.

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Orinduik Development Inc. sponsored GSSF’s Practical Shoot

Andrew Phang and Ryan McKinnon emerge victorious

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