Kaieteur News

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AIETEUR

Impact of coronavirus... Tuesday Edition

Guyana slowly grinds to a halt

March 17, 2020 - Vol. 13 No. 11

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RECOUNT STALLED - Coalition Govt. silent

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- Nandlall says Granger seeking legal advice Containers containing the ballot boxes being stored inside the compound of the Arthur Chung Convention Centre

PPP/C, Coalition supporters guard ballot boxes overnight p.

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Chambers urge p. 11 16 T&T closes business community to allow workers to its borders to operate from home all foreigners

- mandate sanitary practices; desist from price gouging - School term over, bars shuttered, gatherings banned

Party Reps, Observers asked to “leave” Convention Centre or “face arrest” by Riot Police p.

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Kaieteur News

PAGE 02

Tuesday March 17, 2020

Party reps, Observers asked to “leave” Convention Centre or “face arrest” by riot police

By Shikema Dey

A

ccredited Observers for the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections along with representatives from the varying political parties were last evening reportedly given an ultimatum by riot police to either leave the Arthur Chung Convention Centre or face incarceration.

The Convention Centre i s t h e o ff i c i a l v e n u e pinpointed for the national recount of ballots for the previously held elections.

Kaieteur News was informed that the threat was made after the party representatives refused to vacate the compound since it now houses the containers packed with the ballot boxes.

People's Progressive Party (PPP) Executive Member and Attorney-atLaw, Anil Nandlall, was among the group removed

- Commissioner claims injury during attack from the compound.

Speaking to reporters outside of the Convention Centre, Nandall explained that the agreement made allows for a representative or representatives from the political parties and the observer teams, alongside Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Commissioners, to be present at this site.

He told Kaieteur News that “they (the police) said that they are giving us lawful directions, they warned us that a refusal to carry out or comply with the police directive is an offence and they threatened to arrest us if we do not comply with their directives.”

He said, “They have put

us out and there are containers in the compound here, unsecured and without any monitoring from any of the political parties or the observers' teams.”

Nandlall pointed out that the order was made by a police officer in riot gear who suddenly appeared without warning.

According to him, “they brought in a whole group of riot police, totally attired, to deal with a riotous situation that did not exist.”

“Now you saw all of us here, you know all the people who have been out here, you would not have heard any noise, you would not have seen any evidence of any riotous conduct or behaviour. Yet the riot squad

was called in, equipped with riot clothes and equipment to put us out of the compound,” he added.

Nandlall described the act as a blatant “abuse of power”, citing that the police are being used as pawns to carry out political directives.

“This is highly unacceptable and the Guyana Police Force is again being used as a political instrument, to carry out political directives,” he insisted.

When asked who the orders came from directly, Nandlall was unable to ascertain such, explaining that they were not told why they were asked to move, only given the directive.

“The Commissioner of Police has not surfaced.

You're not hearing anything from the Commissioner of Police, you're not even hearing from the Minister…well there is no Minister, just the President so you don't know who is running this operation but

PPP's Anil Nandlall address the reporters certainly the police can't take directions from ministers.”

The former Attorney General posited that the police must take directions from a higher head since they cannot act on their own accord.

“We see an abuse of power taking place and we see the ballot boxes being unnecessarily exposed to the danger of being raided,” he said.

Opposition-appointed Commissioner, Robeson Benn, claimed that he was injured last evening during an altercation with two riot officers.

According to Benn, while he was situated with the containers containing the ballot boxes, he was approached by two officers who demanded that he leave the premises or be arrested.

However, the Commissioner

made it known to them that an agreement was made at the level of the Elections Commission on Sunday, which was affirmed.

Benn was keen to highlight that it was agreed that a representative from each stakeholder party had to be present with the containers 24/7. As such, Benn defended his presence there.

However, those riot officers, according to Benn, refused to listen to his statements, after which they attacked him. Photos that were circulated on social media showed Benn lying on the ground with two riots officers towering over him.

Benn claims that he suffered from an injury to his left arm and torso and was advised to visit the hospital by his colleague, Dr. Frank Anthony.

Opposition Appointed GECOM Commissioner, Robeson Benn, lying on the ground reportedly after being injured by police ranks

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 17, 2020

PAGE 03

Recount stalled

- Coalition Govt. silent

- Nandlall says Granger seeking legal advice

By Shikema Dey

T

he national recount of ballots of the March 2, 2020 General and Regionals Elections was slated to have begun yesterday at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre at 12 noon.

But despite having a high level delegation from the Caribbean Community at the request of the incumbent

President David Granger, that recount was delayed due to several events, with no word on when it will be started.

That high level team consists of Chairman Francine Baron, Former Attorney General and Foreign Minister; with Anthony Boatswain, the Former Finance Minister of Grenada, along with Cynthia Barrow-Giles, Senior

Lecturer in the Department of Government at the University of the West Indies. The team will also be accompanied by the two Chief Elections Officers from Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago.

The Guyana Elections Commission on Sunday met with the team from CARICOM which will be overlooking the recount process and at the end of that

PPP/C, APNU+AFC supporters guard ballot boxes overnight Party supporters take their places outside the Convention Centre

F

ollowing a series of purported obstructions to preparations for the national recount, supporters of both the major parties decided to guard the ballot boxes at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre overnight.

The ballot boxes started arriving from Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)'s Kingston office in the afternoon and were landed at the back of the compound. Security was already well in place, even before the impassioned party supporters showed up.

Kaieteur News was informed by several party representatives on the inside that, in addition to the police presence, the parties sent their own representatives to watch over the boxes overnight.

Each shipping container which holds the ballot boxes is fastened shut with locks and chains. Each party is in possession of its own lock and seal for the container.

That means that, for the shipping container to open, each party would have to permit it.

On the other hand, if the shipping containers were opened without all the parties' consent, it is likely to be discovered at some point that the containers were broken into. Nevertheless, the major parties' supporters did not think that to be enough.

On the side of the governing coalition, supporters of A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) chose the bus shed near the Giftland Mall road as their waiting place.

Few had been camped outside early yesterday afternoon, but the group started to multiply as darkness set in. Decked in

party paraphernalia, they were observed huddled together every now and then.

On the side of the People's Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), the General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo, had held a 7pm press conference where he expressed frustration at how events of the day frustrated the start of the recount process.

He announced that a vigil would be held at the centre to watch over the ballot boxes.

Shortly after, the party's supporters and members started to show up, and planted themselves at the front gate of the convention center, as well as the side gate accessible from the Giftland Mall road.

meeting, the modalities of the recount were discussed and agreed to by all parties involved.

One such modality was that the recount will follow no number structure and would commence with Region Four; the largest dis trict and the mo s t problematic.

Kaieteur News understands that the team despite having agreed to the terms of the recount did not yet sign the “aid memoire”, the legal document that spells out the terms and conditions of the recount.

This is according to Opposition Party Executive Anil Nandlall.

Nandlall told the media that this was one of the main hurdles that prevented the recount from starting.

According to him, the document was sent to President David Granger since last evening to be reviewed but they have since learned that he is seeking legal advice before signing off on it.

“The leader of the

opposition approved it and it was sent to the President and he is apparently claiming that he needs legal advice.”

Nandlall stated that “it is a one page document that essentially captures what the CARICOM statement said.”

He explained that when asked what was stalling the recount, GECOM Chair, ret'd Justice Claudette Singh stated that she was awaiting the “aid memoire” but according to him, this would not affect the recount.

The team and Commissioners from the two major political parties, along with representatives from the smaller parties, were set to inspect the Convention Centre to ensure that it housed all the necessary equipment needed to facilitate the recount.

That was said to have taken place at 9:00am yesterday morning and lasted two hours.

The next step was to brief the relevant stakeholders and transport the containers with the ballot boxes to the location to commence the recount.

But Kaieteur News was reliably informed that hours had passed with no meeting being held. To add to that, reports surfaced that the Centre was scheduled to be

fumigated at the time when the count was to begin.

Hours after, the containers started arriving at the Centre at around 2:00pm.

By 5:00pm, all of the containers were inside of the Convention Compound along with party representatives. But no recount had started.

Later on, reports surfaced that the building was being fumigated for “ants”, which further delayed the process.

S u b s e q u e n t l y a f t e r, police in riot gear entered the compound and reportedly ordered that party representatives along with accredited observes be removed from the company, citing no valid reason for such.

Shortly after, the party representatives were informed that they were only allowed one person at a time to keep an eye on the ballot boxes.

During the ruckus however, nothing was said as to when the recount would commence. Through all of this, no word came from the Coalition government as to why the document has not yet been signed.

And an anxious country awaits the recount of the elections.

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Tuesday March 17, 2020

Kaieteur News

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

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

EDITORIAL

The absence of charity Guyana is now so far gone with its tantrums and histrionics that, by any standard, it has to be recognised as having proceeded very rapidly into rubber duck and pacifier territory. It is time for the toys to come in efforts to soothe an agitated society into some state of quiet normalcy, even if only fleetingly.

Since we are designated as unruly children unable and unfit to manage our own affairs of state, the foreigners come rushing to the rescue again. We promise to behave ourselves (law and order) before the foreign headmasters and headmistresses.

This is most embarrassing, definitely humiliating, for the few patriotic Guyanese remaining. It should be so for all Guyana but we do not even possess a residual modicum of self-respect and the dignity required to feel any shame.

So Caricom neighbours leave their own urgent matters hanging and hurry over here to hold out olive branches and white flags to lead us by hand and nose to some place, other than the usual gutters in which we love to cavort without a care.

Those well-meaning leaders from the regional body may be rightly considered to be brothers and neighbours, and like good neighbours, they run to help us extinguish the heats that leave us helpless and useless for the immense tasks and responsibilities that stand before us.

Truly, we are the exemplification of the handicapped, the pitiful, and the wretched.

Next in line, and the calls have already been issued, is for international agencies to perform similar salvaging acts with what is left from elections 2020. So, yet again, outsiders and foreigners are summoned to lend a hand to extricate us from the ugly, rancorous, and menacing family feuds that leave us hanging by a string.

It is as though the benevolent and paternalistic presence and hand of the overseers of slavery days still prevail authoritatively in this unemancipated land.

It cannot be described in any other way, or with the same degree of relevance and accuracy, given our harsh and mind-bending reality. Since we cannot do the things that are required by ourselves, through determined efforts to help ourselves, then that onerous task, most unfortunately and revealingly, falls into the laps of those of fairer and wiser dispositions.

There are few self-respecting peoples, and fewer nations with any scintilla of dignity, that would accept such a demeaning fate. They would want out of pride and some sense of selfesteem to do what is absolutely necessary to find a way, to carve a path, out of the bottom of the old gutters that keep bogging us down in the old ways and with the old results.

It is the height of savaging irony that this country, which has given so many illustrious sons and daughters in service to one noble cause after another in the world at large, is unable to call on, lean on, and trust in one of its own to take it to a different place, to a higher level.

It is powerfully enlightening to appreciate that this sovereign nation Guyana does not have in its inventory of citizens, one small group of wise and independent patriots, or one man or woman that commands respect and trust across the political spectrum.

In this society, there is this unalterable, unmoving position: when the sum of citizens is examined, he or she is thought of and concluded to be for one side, hence against the other. And because of this, there is suppression of any thinking, and denial of any opportunity, for a Guyanese solution to what are quintessential Guyanese problems.

In essence, what has resulted on a near continual basis are these weak plasters and Band-Aids that are temporary in nature, furnish no lasting remedies, and easily unravel as soon as the heat of any temperature changes come.

Put differently, when the passions in the political and social environment intensify, it is back to the failures of square one, the same 360 degrees retraced endlessly.

Our leaders insist on reaching to the outside for assistance. They reject movement towards local solutions born of local experiences and local minds. Unless we reengineer our thinking, we condemn ourselves to the treadmill of ongoing failure.

Civilisation under siege…. do the right thing today DEAR EDITOR, I follow the cascading coverage of news report after news report. The stories are the same, with a numbing, draining quality about them. Those great gatherings of civilisation are under siege, increasingly desperate siege.

First, there was sports.

Then, there were schools, and now bars and restaurants and some stores.

The vice tightens inexorably. Now religious services have reluctantly yielded before the plague that is here. But there is something different about this virus. It attacks the very cores of our existence, with the bulwarks and bonds of civilisation subject to increasing assaults.

For it drives a poisoned dagger into, the biggest of trucks through, the heart of what holds us together.

That togetherness is now compelled to march - indeed, race - in the opposite direction: segregate and fumigate, relegate and isolate.

I am sorry to say this, but it reminds me of the reaction to the presence of dreaded leprosy in ancient times. It is only that this COVID-19 is worse: not visible, not sensed or detected until very late and after potentially much damage is done to others, which only expands the circle and extends the chain reaction. This coronavirus is an avalanche, a hurri-

cane without a single whisper of sound, any thread of a timely and recognisable symptom.

The reactions - not kneejerk reflex, not without the greatest of deliberations and hesitations have been limitations and full out lockdown: communities, cities, whole countries. It is a bad time and flies in the face of individual convictions and cultural traditions. That is, to stand and put up a fight at the personal level; and to resist collectively through unflappable combat with arms inseparably interlinked.

Both have been forced by the dictates of urgent and unparalleled circumstances to succumb and to go the other way, by approaching and addressing in an unheard-of manner.

Alone. Out of range. By one’s self. Fearful and lonely and grasping at straws, while gasping for air. It is the monster of nightmares. This is lived beside with eyes open.

Now we should be able to identify with the psychological pressures and horrors of prisoners subjected to the extreme lockdown of isolation.

Lengthy isolation. Man, more so modern man, is not accustomed to this severest of dislocations; for he is a community animal, a creature of family. Both could be gone.

This is utterly alien to

him and weighs down with inestimable burdens. From whom did I contract this wretched existential threat? To whom did I possibly spread it? And, as always, from here to where?

Meaning, when all is said and done, will I outlast this scourge?

The main things are not to panic, not to allow oneself to become prone to, and powerless in the face o f , p a r a n o i a . We h a v e heard that we have to be careful and disciplined enough to not overreact.

To b e s o s t r o n g a s t o recognise limitations and what makes for sheer commonsense wisdom, which is to take the precaution of initiating those practical steps of staying out of harm’s way. This is nonnegotiable.

Having said all of this, it is not in me at this most uneasy of times to criticise anyone.

It is counterproductive and not helpful to anyone or anything. Still, I would be remiss if I do not say that it would be most encouraging to observe a more centralised command and control arrangement; something that resembles the nationally coordinated.

I applaud those public service entities that have initiated contingencies for this unanticipated conting e n c y. N o n e t h e l e s s , I would be pleased - and the rest of Guyana should be, too - to see the CDC, the

leaders at the MoPH, and other authoritative agencies come out with a joint response. That can only comfort.

Now, I will venture into the field of the heretical: political leaders should deescalate from the senseless heights (it is so to me) relative to matters of elections. Suspend the counts.

Declare a state of emergency. Call a halt to the destructive backbiting and backstabbing and backing to the brink repeatedly.

Editor, pardon me for anticipating the deafest ears and the stoniest of faces.

I say this because there is something worse than the traumas of overreaction. It is that of no reaction. None that is timely. None that is wise.

None that is healthy and life-giving.

We need to breathe in this country. It has to be of a different air, at a different temperature, with a different purity.

Elections throttled oil out of the national consciousness, almost out of existence.

I think that this coronavirus, this COVID19 presence, rises to the immediacy of jettisoning elections in the same manner. Things threaten to fall apart and at a most vulnerable time. Let us do the right thing today.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

We need a women’s version of the CPL DEAR EDITOR, In light of the recent poor performance of the West Indies women cricket team at this year’s T20 World Cup, it is time we take steps to remedy this shortcoming.

In spite of one of our key players, Deandra Dottin, being injured and unable to play at her full potential, the team should have performed much better than it did.

Unfortunately, Hayley Matthews seemed out of form at this time and only Captain Stafanie Taylor and Shemaine Campbell seemed to be in form with the bat. Our bowlers were not as effective when compared with those of the other teams.

Australia has been dominant over the years in Women’s Cricket and this is by no means luck or an accident.

They have the Women’s Big Bash tournament where fresh talent is discovered and nurtured. India, which should have lifted at least one Championship

given the talent they have, also has one of the strongest teams. Should the IPL owners lend a positive ear to former Indian great Sunil Gavaskar, they would soon start a women’s IPL and discover more talent, as they did Shafali Verma.

Having said that, it was just unfortunate that India ‘chose’ the worst time to have their worst game. Given the strength of their bowling, they allowed Australia to gallop out of the gates, with their openers getting good scores, thanks to dropped catches by unusually loose fielding.

When they did get a breakthrough, they picked up a couple of quick wickets, but by then the damage was already half done.

Throughout the tournament, opener Shafali Verma had been carrying the scoring for India, and this was largely responsible for the team being unbeaten in the tournament. This time she failed to get to the boundary

once.

The usually prolific Smriti Mandhana (she reminds me of Roy Fredericks) did not get going, and the dependable Jemimah Rodrigues failed to score.

When Verma, Mandhana, Rodrigues and Captain Harmanpreet Kaur are going accumulate a total score of under 20, one cannot expect to win a World Cup Final. It was the worst time to have such a bad game.

But back to the plight of our Caribbean team. What would it take for the owners of the CPL to start a tournament for women? Judging from the just concluded T20 World Cup, cricket fans are warming up to supporting Women’s cricket.

Should such a league be started in the West Indies, it will certainly discover many talented players, which will bolster the West Indies team.

To date, Anisa Mohammed is the only Indian player on the team. This is most likely due to the prac-

tice of Indian parents to dissuade their daughters from participating in sports. A women’s CPL would go a long way in convincing such parents that they should allow their daughters to explore their talents in cricket. There are quite a few Indian girls in the Caribbean that can play the game, but are not given the opportunity.

This is therefore an appeal to the owners and those of influence to seriously consider starting a WCPL maybe begin with four teams and see how it goes before expanding.

West Indies has too much of a rich cricketing history to be performing at such a mediocre level, and there are too many former greats around for us to be lacking advisers and consultants.

Three or four good players on a team are not enough to become champions again.

We need a women’s version of the CPL. Nathaniel Hinckson

Tuesday March 17, 2020

Clarification needed on ‘forcible detention’ methods to deal with the Coronavirus DEAR EDITOR, I read with great interest and concern a recent Kaieteur News article about the Ministry of Public Health’s efforts to track persons who had mingled with the family of Ratna Baboolall, the first person to test positive for the Coronavirus in Guyana ( h t t p s : / / www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/ 2020/03/16/health-ministrytracks-hundreds-whomingled-with-relatives-ofdead-coronavirus-victim/). In that article, Dr. Karen Boyle is quoted as saying that “as

an extreme measure, the Ministry will employ methods to forcibly detain persons in the interest of public safety.”

I write to ask Dr. Boyle, Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence, and/or any other responsible party to please clarify exactly what this statement means.

Will infected persons be jailed or held in confinement?

Where? Will armed security personnel be placed at their homes? I would also like to know the specific provision of Guyanese law that allows this action. Finally- what mea-

sures will be put into place to ensure that no abuses of any kind take place - in the interest of public safety?

These are troubling times indeed and it is imperative that we all strive to remain calm and considerate of each other, as well as respectful of each other’s human rights and dignity.

I acknowledge the Ministry’s efforts to address this virus thus far and I thank them in advance for their reply to my questions.

Sincerely, Sherlina Nageer, MPH

Call me naïve, but I believe that we still need to fight even when all seems bleak DEAR EDITOR, I read the Sunday, March 15, 2020, column by Freddie Kissoon, which was published by the Kaieteur News and had reason to pause halfway through because of a few troubling lines.

Kissoon prophesied: “Why would young leaders want to continue in the PPP only to give blood, sweat and tears, and to see their political careers stagnated forever in the opposition benches?”

He adds that: “By what rational thinking would a young politician want to stay in the PPP’s leadership after

March 2020?”

Editor, as a young, educated candidate for the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), these comments insult the work that has been done by scores of young people and borders on disrespect.

For clarity as to the intention of many of the young PPP/C candidates, like myself, several of whom have political ambitions, let me explain – when one believes in something, just and right, they do not just sit idly by and do nothing. As a reminder, integral to the fight at GECOM

were young women, like Sonia Parag, and others.

Mr. Kissoon would do well to remember that: “The only thing necessary for triumph of evil is for good men (AND WOMEN) to do nothing.” This is why young politicians will stay in the PPP’s leadership after March 2020.

Call me naïve, but I believe that we still need to fight even when all seems bleak.

Sincerely, Nalinie Singh PPP/C National Candidate, Political Science BA (York University)

Good intentions lead to good outcomes DEAR EDITOR, As I read Guyana news, I often wonder when Guyana will get its next national hero, after Cuffy and Cheddi Jagan.

It seems that a country with so much potential still has many of its citizens desiring migration as their first priority, a natural outcome of the surrounding unpleasantness/ hopelessness.

After my heroes - my mother, sisters, and wife, I would say that the late Sir Frank Mortimer Maglinne

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

Worrell, from Barbados, was another great aspirational leader.

He indirectly transformed the West Indies, Guyana included, into one relatively cohesive society and directly created a cricket team with longstanding victories and some of the greatest cricketers.

In the 1960-61 summer tour of Australia, the West Indies (WI) cricket team changed the way cricket was played, earned the respect and admiration of the cricket world, and permanently cemented cricket in the

British WI as one united cricket team.

Frank Worrell was appointed as the first Afro-West Indian to captain that team which toured Australia.

Worrell knew that he could not fail and so he asked his team that under any circumstance, they must not behave in an unprofessional and discourteous manner - on or off the field.

Worrell, a man of impeccable conduct and strong principles, got immediate buy-in from the team.

WI lost the series by the (Continued on page 6)

I believe the ultimate outcome is another “accord” DEAR EDITOR, An independent view will never find favour with the loyalists. But the GECOM’s action over the past week was a stark reminder that political loyalties can breach even the most August constitutional bodies.

But fast forward to today and the “CARICOM supervision”. Truth is that GECOM is an independent body. Neither Granger nor Jagdeo can instruct them to do anything.

If GECOM is hell-bent on mischief, then they will do mischief. If GECOM is intent on sticking to the legal processes then they will do just that.

The reality of today’s issues with the CARICOM su-

pervision is that GECOM may “accommodate” the supervision of the recount in a limited way in the interest of transparency, but will not change its course or directions - it will do exactly as it did, absurd attempts and all.

Do you think GECOM did anything wrong so far? You may think so - but GECOM doesn’t. None of the actions of Mingo et al was admonished by the CEO. And, the Chairperson cannot do the work of the CEO. Like it or not, none of the threats of sanctions or other actions bother Granger, as he will continue to maintain, rightly so, that it is GECOM that makes a declaration and

he is far removed from it. No one can sanction GECOM...GECOM is not the country.

So, what is the ultimate outcome to all of these byplays?

I believe the ultimate outcome is another “accord” that will work out the modalities of the next elections, which will be - either by agreement or by Court Order, via elections petition, in three years.

In conclusion, whatever the modalities or agreements or outcome of the process, let us start thinking of a real change in the political makeup of the future Guyana Government. It cannot continue to be winner takes all.

Dr. Yog Mahadeo

Closing of schools DEAR EDITOR, I must commend the Ministry of Education for closing all schools in the wake of the global epidemic, which is the Coronavirus now referred to as COVID-19.

It’s very important for us to be aware as a nation of the dangers surrounding this virus in schools for our children, teachers and the parents of these kids who will be picking them up from school.

The University of Guyana made a great decision to close its doors to stay clear of any spreading of this virus.

However, my concern is the school that my nephew is attending in Berbice (GuySuCo Training Centre) which is a live-in school for all students, which remains open in light of the current epidemic.

I made contact with my nephew and he said nothing

was related to them and that they are doing their normal training.

I am calling on the necessary authorities to look into this situation and say if this is a wise decision not to close

the school with these kids. All over the world, you can see schools closing just to be on the safe side. I am calling on GuySuCo to respond, because those kids are at a risk.

Concerned

PAGE 6

Tuesday March 17, 2020

Kaieteur News

Election observations DEAR EDITOR, I am a local election observer accredited by GECOM. On election day, I visited 59 polling stations morning and afternoon and observed the voting process in more than 40 of them.

I found order and peace in all except in Sophia Primary School, where there were people not voting hanging out outside the gates, especially around the food ven-

dors. They were tolerated by the police. There were even persons in the compound, who when I asked who they were, replied they were “helpers”. When I asked to what organisation they belonged, they said “no organisation”.

So after close of Poll at 6 pm, I decided I would spend much of the evening at that polling place. At 6 pm, all the polling stations in the compound took a dinner break for

food catered for the staff by GECOM and the Police respectively. No GECOM staffer was not provided for, and none was too tired to work.

Counting began after 6.30 pm.

During the dinner break, persons wanted to be let into the compound as counting agents, but the security guard objected, until the deputy returning officer (DRO) stationed there looked out from her window, far from the gate,

Good intentions lead to good...

From page 5 narrowest margin, but the team’s performance was so impressive that: - A perpetual trophy (Frank Worrell Trophy) was created by Sir Donald Bradman, in honour of Worrell - The Brisbane match was labelled the greatest test match ever played, a match with a tied result.

- The singing of “for he is a jolly good fellow” to Worrell at the trophy presentation ceremony, although the Australian team was receiving the Trophy.

- A ticker tape farewell of 500,000 Australians turned out to greet the WI players on their motorcade send-off.

- An integration of the white Australian and WI players off the field, despite an “all-white Australian policy” in effect until 1973.

The team comprised play-

ers of many different countries and races, African, Indian, white, mixed, etc. Worrell regarded them all with a positive embrace. For example, Rohan Kanhai’s tendency was to lose his wicket just before 100. At a later test match in Trinidad and Tobago, Worrell went on the field, at the players’ gate, to give Rohan moral support when he was nearing 100.

Unfortunately, Rohan did not make his 100 that day.

I recommend the YouTube 3-part documentary titled: Calypso Summer 1960-61 – you will see all the great Guyanese Legends, etc.

Worrell, an all-rounder, but better with the bat, was knighted for his services to the game in 1964. After active cricket, he was appointed warden of a hall of residence at the University of the West Indies and became a senator in the Jamaican Parliament.

Born August 1, 1924, he died of leukaemia in March 1967. A memorial service for Worrell in Westminster Abbey was the first to honour a sportsman. The almost entire Barbados population turned up at his funeral.

Local Guyanese have said to me that “this place don’t have good people”. I know several who are good; one of whom became an integral part of my life.

I also know some overseas Guyanese who are/were in critical jobs for which they were recognised for stellar performance and exceptional conduct.

Guyanese should never give up striving to be outstanding citizens. They should always remember that good and virtuous intentions and acts lead to positive outcomes.

Thank you, Fizul Rahim

and said it was okay.

I went to the gate to find out more. It turned out that someone, who identified himself to me as an APNU/AFC candidate, was sharing out letters to persons to enter the compound as counting agents. I asked to see the letters. They were applications addressed to the Chief Elections Officer, purportedly signed by Volda Lawrence, for the named persons to be counting agents.

I pointed out that the letters were only applications, not authorisations, and he acknowledged that fact, but the APNU/AFC “counting agents” were still allowed to enter. Some of them were from the group of people who I met in the compound earlier in the day and who had said they belonged to no organisation.

A little later, while the APNU/AFC candidate for that area - not the one giving out letters at the gate - and I were sitting together in a strategic position to observe the polling stations in the compound, an assistant superintendent of police came by and announced he had prevented the PPP/C candidate from entering the compound because he was causing a disturbance

at the gate.

The APNU/AFC candidate next to me said that he should have allowed him to get in. I got up and made my way to the gate where there were many people outside, but the PPP/C candidate had already left. The security guard said the PPP/C candidate was causing a disturbance and so was not allowed to enter, but in my opinion, it was the people standing around outside the gate who caused the disturbance, and whose opinion carried more weight with the security guard and the police than the one authorised person. The people outside the gate moved away when they saw I was an observer.

It is therefore interesting that Region 4 returning officer (RO) Clairmont Mingo says “no counting agents were properly appointed”. That may be so, but I observed that this lack of appointment was being selectively applied and did not hinder the APNU/ AFC “counting agents” on my beat. Disturbances were only created when the tried and tested procedures were discarded. Blaming the disturbances on the complainers cannot be right. Blame must accrue to those who ignored

the law and agreed procedures and courtesies.

It was my further experience when I visited the Region 4 GECOM headquarters at High and Hadfield Streets after last Friday that I was unable to get past the police, even though I showed my observer badge. This means that the ballot boxes were in possession of GECOM officials like the Region 4 RO, who had the keys to all the Region 4 ballot boxes, which were stored out of sight of election observers, under guard by a police force that saw nothing wrong with being partisan and taking instructions from the APNU/ AFC party.

Therefore, in view of the long unaccountable time that was available for mischief, I call for a demonstration of just how tamperproof the ballot boxes are. Because of GECOM’s own demonstrated lack of transparency, its voter education mandate must be extended to convince the public that the integrity of their system was independent of their personnel.

Alfred Bhulai Local accredited election observer Transparency Institute Guyana Inc (TIGI)

COVID-19 brings out the new Donald Trump DEAR EDITOR, Step in Coronavirus or COVID-19 and allow the new Donald Trump to step up.

Yes, let’s hear it for the Donald. After all, according to Samuel Adams, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, “give credit to whom credit is due”.

America is now seeing a new Donald Trump as he works to get on top of the Coronavirus. Gone is the political pugilist taking shots at his critics and enemies, and the eager participant in partisan posturing.

Now for the first time, the president is appearing to the American people like a competent manager- organising a team that faces discouraging tasks against heavy odds.

Another big change is that he is working well and uniting with others, as he brings in private sector leaders and experts in an all-out effort to make anti-virus plans work.

Seemingly in sync with the well-known hit tune, “Ain’t no stopping us now”, Donald Trump has persuaded the likes of Walmart, Target and Walgreens to convert portions of their parking lots into drive through testing centres for COVID-19.

Additionally, he gets the Food and Drug Administra-

tion to fast track approvals of testing technologies. Strange but true, he has been able to work with Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, agreeing on an economic and financial relief program, which includes waiving interest on student debt, providing paid medical leave to victims, expanded nutrition programs, short term-loans to affected businesses and an infinite number of other efforts to assuage the effects of the virus.

During 9/11 the nation learned about George W. Bush and now thanks to COVID-19 we are learning about who Donald Trump really is.

Gone is the reality show performer, or the galvanising take-no-prisoners partisan, replaced instead by a man who is just about getting the work done. No longer picking fights with anyone, even the European Union, now content to lead an above-politics effort to deal with the present emergency brought on by the Coronavirus.

Last Friday, President Trump announced that Sunday, March 15 would be declared a National Day of Prayer, and said that he would monitor a church service

online.

“It is my great honour to” Trump tweeted. “We are a Country that, throughout our history, has looked to God for protection and strength in times like these.

The announcement was made on the same day that he also declared a national emergency over COVID-19, which claimed thousands of lives worldwide.

Yes, the President is looking more presidential now, in so much that many are wondering how much of the new Donald Trump reflects the influence of his Vice President, Mike Pence.

In consideration of the known fact that this former governor of Indiana is accustomed to the challenges of management, we are all left with the conundrum — how much of the new Donald Trump is reflective of the influence of Vice President Mike Pence? An answer is unrequited.

Instead, let’s forget the past and enjoy the present while it lasts. We should unite with the president in the fight towards putting the Coronavirus to flight. Together, we will easily PREVAIL!” Trump wrote in a follow-up tweet.

Yvonne Sam

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 17, 2020

Commonwealth SG lauds leadership for efforts to facilitate elections recount

S

ecretary-General (SG) of the Commonwealth, Baroness Patricia Scotland, welcomes and commends the regional leadership of the C ar ib b ean C o mmu n ity (CARICOM), at the invitation of President David Granger, to deploy a high-level mission to Guyana, to supervise a recount of the ballots cast in all 10 regions of the recently concluded elections.

Baroness Scotland had previously issued a statement on 13th March, Commonwealth expressing deep concern that Secretary-General, the tabulation of Region Baroness Patricia Scotland Four results after the March 2 General and Regional t h a t t h e s u b s e q u e n t E l e c t i o n s w a s n o t tabulation in Region 4 was transparently conducted in not conducted in accordance accordance with the ruling with the judgment of the Acting Chief Justice and is of the Acting Chief Justice.

A c c o r d i n g t o t h e therefore not credible.

H o w e v e r, t he s t a t e m e n t , t h e Commonwealth Observer Commonwealth Secretary Group to Guyana had General has since noted that informed the Baroness that it the leadership of President is the clear view of the group Granger and the Leader of

the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, in coming to this agreement on the way forward deserves to be lauded.

“I also note and welcome the public commitment from Justice Claudette Singh, Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), that she would facilitate the recounting of ballots; and her assurance that GECOM will cooperate fully with the CARICOM Initiative. I urge all relevant stakeholders and public officials to do the same, and in accordance with the unambiguous judgment of the Acting Chief Justice,” the Baroness said in the statement.

She noted that the entire Commonwealth family looks to the leaders and the people of Guyana to live up to the lofty aspirations set out in the constitution, electoral laws, and the Commonwealth Charter.

What pet caregivers and veterinarians need to know about the coronavirus

By Dr. Steve Surujbally

O

ver the past month, I have been inundated with calls from pet owners asking me whether their pets can infect the owners. Many of them pointed out that canine coronavirus was included on their pets' Vaccination Certificates.

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association ( W S AVA ) h a s i s s u e d updated guidance (March 10, 2020) on its Website.

WSAVA has documented that veterinarians and pet owners should not panic about contracting the coronavirus disease now called COVID–19.

Let me repeat: It is highly unlikely that humans could contract the new coronavirus from their dog or cat, or that their companion animals can transmit this virus to people or to other animals.

Scientists like Professor Michael Lappin at the James L. Ross Veterinary Teaching Hospital (Colorado State University) and the Centre for Disease Control in the USA have published an advisory confirming that there is currently no evidence that pets or other domestic animals can be

Dr. Steve Surujbally infected by this new strain of coronavirus; nor are they a source of infection to people.

Evidently, this is a rapidly evolving situation that has now been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Of course, we shall be monitoring the scientific publications and advisories and will keep you posted about new developments.

Now, let me answer the question about vets vaccinating your dogs against Canine Enteric (intestinal) coronavirus disease. The vaccine that we vets use is available in the

global marketplace. They are not expected to offer any cross-immunization/ protection against COVID19. This new virus with which humans are being confronted is a distinctly different coronavirus variant which targets the respiratory system, in the first instance.

Let me hasten to add, that although some media outlets have been mentioning the possibility of human infection from animals, there is no reliable scientific evidence that pets (or other domestic animals) might be the source of the novel coronavirus relative to humans.

It behooves me to mention that at a symposium sponsored by the Ministry of Public Health at the National Cultural Centre on Wednesday, March 11, 2020, one speaker also endorsed the position that no data are currently available that would suggest dog to human and human to dog transmission/contamination/ infection. This new coronavirus is simply a totally different strain from that which affects canine species.

For now, I am emphasising the text (continued on page 18)

PAGE 07

ERC joins in welcoming decision for full elections recount

T

h e E t h n i c R e l a t i o n s Commission (ERC), has welcomed the decision by President David Granger and Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, for CARICOM to supervise a full recount of votes cast for the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections and to abide by the findings as long as the integrity of the ballot boxes are not compromised.

This, the Commission believes, would bring an amicable end to the current political impasse which has resulted in a non-declaration of credible final results even as two weeks has elapsed since Guyanese went to the polls to choose a government of their choice.

“The decision also demonstrates that meaningful and genuine collaboration across the

political aisle is achievable and vital to help resolve inherent differences and challenges.

It also has tremendous potential to heal the current unwelcome and prevailing divide among our people.”

The Commission said that it remains optimistic that the full details of how the recount would be undertaken will be agreeable to all and the conduit to derive desirable credible results.

The Commission takes this opportunity to commend President Granger and Dr. Jagdeo for being able to find common ground to move forward in the best interest of Guyana and Guyanese; CARICOM's Chairperson, honourable Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, for supporting Guyana during this difficult time, for mediating between

ERC Chairman, Rev. John Smith our political leaders and for assembling the team supervising the recount and the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Justice (rtd) Claudette Singh, for facilitating the process.

The Commission would like to reiterate its call for all Guyanese to act responsibly, to demonstrate tolerance, respect and restraint especially during this period and to heed the messages for togetherness, harmony and good relations.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Tuesday March 17, 2020

Trump tries to ease concerns of a nation increasingly rattled over coronavirus

W

ASHINGTO N – For the third time in three days, President Trump addressed the nation from the White House in an effort to address growing fears about the pandemic caused by the coronavirus, which has now infected about 3,200 Americans and killed more than 60.

“Beautiful day outside,” Trump said at the very outset of his remarks, referring to

the nice weather that had residents of Washington, D.C., and other northeastern areas taking to the outdoors.

With movie theaters, arts v e n u e s and—increasingly—restaur ants and bars closed, and with large gatherings like sports events now canceled, there was little else to do.

“Take it easy,” Trump said. “Just relax.”

The president appears to have been heartened by a

Sunday afternoon announcement from the Federal Reserve that interest rates would fall to nearly zero. The central bank would also buy $700 billion in U.S. Treasury and mortgage securities in a dramatic step that recalled the 2008 housing crisis and the bailout of the financial industry that is generally credited with having kept the economy out of a depression.

Trump has been acutely

President Trump gives a news briefing on the administration's response to the coronavirus at the White House on Sunday. (Joshua Roberts/Reuters) concerned about the state of the economy, seemingly aware that his reelection prospects rest in large part on that single factor. But concerns across the nation appear to be more immediate than that.

The weekend saw reports about the difficulty of attaining a coronavirus diagnostic test, as well as confusion about social distancing measures that some people seemed to take seriously and others did not.

Though generally restrained, Trump did condemn what he called “fake news” reports about a Google coronavirus clearinghouse he had touted during Friday's address from the Rose Garden. His promises about that website appear to have been well ahead of reality.

With a political personality built on cavalier machismo, Trump has struggled to provide the kind of empathy and fact-based reassurance that many Americans are plainly seeking. A longtime proponent of relentless optimism, he also struggled to tell Americans that difficult days could be ahead.

The last of these tasks fell to Dr. Anthony Fauci, the National Institutes of Health epidemiologist renowned for his efforts to fight HIV/AIDS in the 1980s. A member of the White House task force, Fauci said on Sunday that “the worst is yet ahead for us. It's how we respond to that challenge that's going to determine what the ultimate endpoint is going to be.” Fauci said that the window of the days to come will determine the severity of the outbreak in

Anthony Fauci, M.D., director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, at a news briefing at the White House on Sunday.

(Joshua Roberts/Reuters) the United States.

For now, the primary question is about when Americans will be able to get a test where they live in a timely manner.

The administration has spent about two weeks promising that both state-run and private labs would soon be testing hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of people. But those promises have been contradictory and confusing. More troubling, they have not been met, with only a few thousand Americans tested last week.

Even if some people are asymptomatic and others experience only mild symptoms, the virus cannot be contained if it cannot be tracked.

Admiral Brett Giroir, a Department of Health and Human Services deputy who has been appointed to head the testing regime, said that 1.9 million coronavirus tests would be available this week, though redundancies in how those tests are conducted does not mean that 1.9 million people will actually be tested.

The priority, he and

others said during the Sunday briefing, will be to make sure that the vulnerable—in particular, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems—be tested ahead of the so-called “worried well,” a term used to describe people whose genuine but overblown concerns could overwhelm the health care system.

“I'm not going to say that the lab testing issue is over, because it's not," Giroir said, even as he and other members of the task force reinforced the notion that the testing scarcity was over.

Pence also said that, in keeping with the coronavirus emergency aid package that was passed by the House on Friday and is expected to pass the Senate and be signed by the president, all coronavirus testing will be free, including for Americans lacking health insurance.

Pence also said that the coronavirus task force would issue new guidance on Monday morning that would presumably include national (continued on page 11)

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 17, 2020

PAGE 09

Editors are gatekeepers of media responsibility

B

ritain has decided to quarantine its citizens who are 70 years of age or older. This group of citizens is considered a highrisk for coronavirus infection and is being asked to self-isolate for a few weeks in order to stem the fatalities from the pandemic sweeping the world.

Guyana has recently confirmed four cases of the coronavirus. But far more dangerous and deadlier than this virus is the spread of irresponsible commentaries of some of our journalists and editors. We have some over-seventy persons in the media whose editorial judgments are making a bad situation worse.

At present in Guyana, political and social tensions are inflamed. The situation is inflammable. The slightest irresponsible flicker can become explosive. In times such as these, editors – the gatekeepers of media responsibility – have to be both mindful and circumspect of what they propagate, lest exacerbate

tensions with society.

The pages of a responsible newspaper should not be used for regurgitating – in whatever form – venomous comments which appear on social media. Some things are better left unsaid, because, if repeated, they add fuel to an already combustible environment.

The emergence of social media makes editorial gatekeeping more critical, not less. Newspapers can lose credibility if they are seen as more conduits of fake or offensive information which originate on social media.

No one disputes that ugly things are being mentioned on social media. No one disputes that some of what is being spread on social media falls into the category of hate speech. But it remains downright irresponsible for such comments to be republished even as an opinion piece.

Social media has allowed for the easy and fast spread of 'hate' comments. Hate speech on social media

Dem boys seh...

represents a threat to democratic values, including freedom of the media.

That threat becomes magnified when inflammatory speech on social media finds its way into the mainstream media, either as news or unqualified opinion pieces.

The duty of the mainstream media, including their columnists and editors, is to exercise greater responsibility and not be lured into repeating things which incite hatred.

The mainstream media, including the print media, must not become an echo chamber for the unverified and irresponsible bunkum which appear on social media.

Editors are not expected to suppress inflammatory or hate speech. But they should never regurgitate such speech without an outright denunciation. Imagine what would be the state of journalism if every 'hate' comment is reproduced in our daily newspapers. Even op-ed pieces should avoid disseminating intolerant

rhetoric especially that which can promote discrimination, incitement and hatred.

No one wants that to happen and this is why it is i m p o r t a n t t h a t commentaries, which address inflammatory or hate speech, should denounce such comments, lest some people interpret its publication as an endorsement.

Some editorial boards

are stricter. They have a policy of refusing to report hate comments, even when done in an interview. They refuse to do so, not as a form of news suppression, but so as not to allow their publications to become a platform for dangerous drivel.

I certainly condemn some of the inflammatory comments, which have appeared on social media, in relation to Guyana's

elections. I would never reproduce or make reference to such comments without offering a condemnation of s a m e . We n e e d l e s s incendiary comments at this time.

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Tuesday March 17, 2020

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

From Stabroek to Kingston: Changing an election result M

r. Clairmont M i n g o , Returning O ff i c e r f o r R e g i o n 4 declared the 2020 election results on Thursday March 5.

He read the declaration from the balcony inside the Ashmin's' building on Hadfield Street, Stabroek, which was the command centre for GECOM with numbers that showed a victory for APNU+AFC which that entity and GECOM, minus the three PPP commissioners accepted.

Preparations were underway to swear in David Granger as president. The Chronicle published Mingo's declaration. Moses Nagamootoo, accepting Mingo's delivery, wrote in the Chronicle that the APNU+AFC had won by 8,000 votes and secured 33 seats.

An injunction was filed

against Mingo's official proclamation of the results, and was granted by the courts. Eight days after his first announcement, Mingo made a second at the head office of GECOM on High Street, Kingston.

His numbers of Friday, March were not identical with his Thursday, March 5 statistics.

They should have been since he tabulated the statements of poll (SOPs) and simply waited for the court to rule to proceed.

He did proceed in Kingston and came up with numbers not identical to what he first made public.

The Chronicle again, published the results, Nagamootoo wrote once more of an ANPU+AFC victory this time using the Kingston statistics.

The obvious and compelling question is how does one account for the

variation from the time Mingo left Stabroek and went to Kingston, a journey that is separated by a week.

Mingo's first pronouncement of the figures caused the GECOM personnel to prepare a schedule for swearing-in.

The court blocked that but on Friday last GECOM again announced a winner and another attempt at swearingin was to be planned. It did not happen because we were informed by the Barbadian Prime Minister that Granger requested CARICOM's assistance in the preparation of ballot recounts.

Confusions are swirling like tsunamic waves. Mingo made his final declaration last Friday. Mingo also refused a request for a Region 4 ballot recount.

But Granger chose not to be sworn in but instead CARICOM will assist with a recount. Why the request by

Granger? No matter what perspective you put on his action, the stark reality is that he chose not to be sworn in but wants a ballot recount.

You can say that Granger has delayed his presidential accession because he wants full transparency so his victory would not be plagued with rumours, controversies and hate. But the confusions won't go away.

This same Granger never commented in his capacity as presidential candidate on what GECOM was doing from midday, Wednesday, March 4 when a smooth process of tabulating the SOPs was abated and one eerie thing after another happened that in the opinion of this column the world has never seen before.

To say it was a circus is a poor depiction. Some of the events were: the tabulation was stopped, when it resumed the SOPs were not used and instead a spreadsheet with questionable numbers were being called out. Mr. Mingo fell ill. He substituted someone whom the court

was told did not have the legal status to act for Mingo.

The tabulation was resumed by two clerks who needed a rest.

Then another GECOM staffer carried away the flash drive and was later found in suspicious circumstances in a nearby room.

The Chief Elections Officer came out of a room, gave assurances which was openly contradicted by his deputy, Roxanne Myers. The GECOM chairman was housed in a room for hours without anyone knowing what happened to her or what she was doing there.

The police cleared the command centre of all nonGECOM personnel and the SOPs were left in the building.

Mingo continued the tabulation a week later but strayed so far away from the Chief Judge's instructions that the heads of mission from the ABC/EU countries walked out.

The climax occurred in Kingston where violence met rigging. Mingo did his nonsense again but this time

Frederick Kissoon APNU supporters were in the building harassing election candidates from the other parties and the media.

These images were shown around the world.

In this concatenation of events, presidential candidate Granger said not a word. But his son-in-law and one of the AFC leaders, Dominic Gaskin, did.

He said he is uncomfortable with Mingo's declaration and he does not think Mingo's results are a true reflection of Region 4's votes.

Finally, David Granger got involved. He called the Barbadian Prime Minister and asked for supervision in a total recount of the ballots for the 2020 general election.

Why? Readers expect an answer. Mr. Granger knows he will not be able to govern with Mingo's figures.

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

Tuesday March 17, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

Kaieteur News

PAGE 12

Tuesday March 17, 2020

In wake of confirmed coronavirus cases...

Guyana slowly grinds to a halt G

iven the nature a n d characteristics of the novel coronavirus, a number of public entities in Guyana are implementing precautionary measures as the country slowly grinds to a halt.

A series of advisories disseminated to the media yesterday by several government agencies and privately own businesses provided information on the measures that will be undertaken as the nations strives to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, now known as COVID -19.

The new preventative measures have been listed in what seems to be a sequence of statements.

Follow Public Health guidelines – DoC In a statement issued yesterday, the Department of Citizenship (DoC) called on members of the public to follow guidelines provided by the Ministry of Public Health, (MoPH) for re infection, prevention and control. Following consultations, the DoC said that it has adjusted a previously issued statement detailing the steps.

According to the new

- several entities temporarily suspend services

The zoo has been closed temporarily statement, the DoC requests that citizens visiting its offices minimise the risks involved when large numbers of persons are congregated. It also noted that persons will be attended to in smaller groups and will be permitted entry on this basis.

“Members of the public are advised that masks are only required if they are caring for a person suspected of being infected with COVID-19 or if they are

coughing or sneezing.

Persons who do not display any symptoms of COVID-19 and who are not caring for anyone suspected to have contracted COVID19 need not wear masks to access services at the DoC or the General Registrar's Office.”

These precautions are especially necessary for the DoC since a significant number of persons who utilise its services on a daily basis are foreign nationals,

many of whom would have engaged in recent overseas travel and may have been exposed to the COVID-19.

This request will remain in effect until the status of the spread of COVID-19 in Guyana is reviewed.

NGSA postponed, no private lessons permitted –Education Ministry According to the Ministry of Education (MoE), as of yesterday in wake of Guyana's confirmation of multiple

cases of COVID-19, the novel coronaviirus, countrywide sanitisation of schools and other Ministry buildings have commenced.

This is according to information released by the Education Ministry yesterday.

In addition to the closure of these facilities to facilitate the sanitation activities, the Ministry in a statement revealed that changes have been made to the dates for (continued on page 17)

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 17, 2020

PAGE 13

Message by UN Secretary General

COVID-19: We Will Come Through This Together

T

he upheaval caused by the coronavirus – COVID-19 -- is all around us. And I know many are anxious, worried and confused. That's absolutely natural.

We are facing a health threat unlike any other in our lifetimes. Meanwhile, the virus is spreading, the danger is growing, and our health systems, economies and day-to-day lives are being severely tested.

The most vulnerable are t h e m o s t affected—particularly our elderly and those with preexisting medical conditions, those without access to reliable health care, and those in poverty or living on the edge.

The social and economic fallout from the combination of the pandemic and slowing economies will affect most of us for some months.

But the spread of the virus will peak.

Our

economies will recover.

Until then, we must act together to slow the spread of the virus and look after each other. This is a time for prudence, not panic.

Science, not stigma. Facts, not fear.

Even though the situation has been classified as a pandemic, it is one we can control. We can slow down transmissions, prevent infections and save lives. But that will take unprecedented personal, national and

WHO updates COVID-19 guidelines: Urges countries to “test, test, test”

T

he World Health Organization (WHO) yesterday conducted a media briefing to provide an update on COVID-19, the novel coronavirus.

WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, outlined several measures for all countries to implement and handle this pandemic as he called on them to increase testing.

In a bulletin released by the Department of Public Information, it was noted that Dr. Ghebreyesus underscored “Our key message is test, test, and test.”

The Director-General noted that knowing where the virus is circulating and locating all cases will serve as a major step in containing the spread of the disease.

Amongst the guidelines, the WHO advised that people follow fundamental health measures outlined and cease all social

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus gatherings; health authorities conduct rapid testing and implement immediate isolation as a means to reduce transmission of the virus and that masks are only to be worn if sick.

The WHO is currently assembling evidence from several published studies to (continued on page 15)

international action.

COVID-19 is our common enemy. We must declare war on this virus.

That means countries have a responsibility to gear up, step up and scale up.

How? By implementing e ff e c t i v e c o n t a i n m e n t strategies; by activating and enhancing emergency response systems; by dramatically increasing testing capacity and care for patients; by readying hospitals, ensuring they have the space, supplies and needed personnel; and by developing life-saving medical interventions.

All of us have a responsibility, too -- to follow medical advice and take simple, practical steps recommended by health authorities.

In addition to being a public health crisis, the virus is infecting the global economy.

Financial markets have been hard hit by the uncertainty. Global supply chains have been disrupted.

Investment and consumer demand have plunged -- with

António Guterres [UN Secretary General]

a real and rising risk of a global recession.

United Nations economists estimate that the virus could cost the global economy at least $1 trillion this year – and perhaps far more.

No country can do it alone. More than ever, governments must cooperate to revitalise economies, expand public investment, boost trade, and ensure targeted support for the people and communities most affected by the disease or more vulnerable to the negative economic impacts – including women who often shoulder a disproportionate

burden of care work.

A pandemic drives home t h e e s s e n t i a l interconnectedness of our human family.Preventing the further spread of COVID-19 is a shared responsibility for us all.

The United Nations – including the World Health Organization -- is fully mobilised.

As part of our human family, we are working 24/7 with governments, providing international guidance, helping the world take on this threat.

We are in this together – and we will get through this, together.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Four more witnesses to testify in Norton Street murder PI

Remanded: James Fraser called 'Dab'

T

he preliminary inquiry (PI) yesterday continued into the murder of Marlon Seon Rodney called 'George' who was shot and killed April last year.

Osafa Grundell, 39, called 'Safo' of Freeman Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown and James Fraser, 21, called 'Dab' of Garnett Street, Georgetown are on remand for Rodney's murder.

When the matter was called, police prosecutor Dominic Bess called on Inspector Suraj Singh to testify. After the officer finished testifying, prosecutor Bess then called on a civilian witness, Shaquille Deon, to finish testifying into Rodney's murder.

After the witnesses testified, they were both subject to cross-examination

by Grundell's attorney, Mark Waldron.

Police Prosecutor Bess, who is representing the state in this matter, informed the court that there are four witnesses remaining to testify.

The matter was adjourned to March 25,

Remanded: Osafo Grundell called 'Safo'

2020.

The men are before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts where the PI is being heard. They were not allowed to plead to the indictable charge, which alleged that between April 25 and April 30 last, at Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown, they murdered Rodney.

According to reports, 35year-old Marlon Rodney, a taxi driver of 71 Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown, was involved in an argument with three individuals.

The men had reportedly pulled out guns and discharged several rounds at Rodney, who was hit in the left leg. A passerby was also shot in the process.

The injured men were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where the passerby was treated and sent away and Rodney was admitted in a critical condition. He later succumbed to his injuries.

On October 25, 2019, 36-year-old Collin Rodney of 70 Joseph Pollydore Street, Lodge, went missing along with his silver grey Toyota Allion bearing

registration number PRR 1076. He is the cousin of the deceased and the main witness in relation to the murder.

One week after Collin Rodney went missing, the police made a gruesome find of the burnt remains of a body in the trunk of a car, which was found torched.

The discovery was made at a desolate and swampy area at Letter T backlands, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, an area that is surrounded by coconut estates and rice fields. This was after an anonymous caller contacted ranks at the Weldaad Police Station to say that a car was being torched at the location.

Police have since confirmed the chassis number on the burnt vehicle to be that of the dead man's car.

F o l l o w i n g a n “inconclusive” post mortem examination done on the remains found in the burnt car, the police conducted DNA testing from samples taken from the corpse.

After samples were matched against family members, months after the results came back positive.

Tuesday March 17, 2020

LIAT takes measures after one of its passengers later tested positive for COVID-19 ST. JOHN'S, Antigua CMC – The Antigua-based regional airline, LIAT, says it has taken “immediate measures” to ensure the safety of all its stakeholders after it had been “advised” that a passenger who travelled on one of its services has subsequently tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).

“At the time of travel, the passenger did not present any symptoms at check-in or onboard. The passenger tested positive several days later for the virus,” the airline said, without indicating the destination of the passenger.

“While the assessment from public health authorities is that the risk of exposure is

l o w, L I AT h a s t a k e n immediate measures to ensure the safety of all its stakeholders. In accordance with procedures and in consultation with the public health authorities, LIAT has taken the crew members from the flight off duty and they are currently in selfquarantine,” it added.

LIAT, which is owned by the regional governments, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, said it has also “ensured that the aircraft was cleaned in keeping with global cleaning standards.

“In addition, we have taken the additional measure of having the aircraft deep

cleaned and sanitized using processes outlined by the authorities and the aircraft manufacturer,” the airline said, adding that it has been in contact with the relevant public authorities and has complied with their request for information on the affected flight.

“This is in keeping with the standard protocol. LIAT's COVID-19 Project Team has been in contact with the various Health Authorities and Airports in our network and continues to monitor the situation closely.

“LIAT will continue to work to ensure the safety of our customers and employees as this situation with COVID19 evolves,” said the airline.

3,000 covid19 test kits in TT NEWSDAY - There are 3,000 covid19 test kits in Trinidad and Tobago and 1,000 more kits are on the way. There are also nearly 300 hospital beds available or soon to be available, allocated in Caura, Couva, the Arima hospital and the hotel at NAPA, for treating coronavirus cases.

These were the announcements made by Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh after a special Cabinet meeting yesterday.

Deyalsingh, addressing the

media, said at the moment tests were being done by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).

That agency has tested 81 samples, with four returning positiveresults.

Deyalsingh said TT has been "flattening the curve," a t e rm used to describe mechanisms to slow the spread of the virus, since January.

Of the four cases, health officials said one has shown consistent improvement and three others were mild cases.

Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh

CTO postpones conference in Nevis BRIDGETOWN, Barbados - CMC – The Barbados-based Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), yesterday announced the postponement of its 19th Tourism Resource Conference that was scheduled to have taken place in Nevis in May. CTO said that the postponement is as a result of the coronavirus (COVID) that was first detected in China last December and has so far been detected in several Caribbean countries. The virus, for which there is no known vaccine, has been blamed for causing the deaths of more than 5,000 and infecting thousands of people in more than 110 countries.

“In light of the constantly changing nature of the coronavirus crisis and in the wake of the decision by the World Health Organization to declare COVID-19 a pandemic, the CTO and the government of Nevis have decided that postponing the conference is the best course of action,” said Sharon Banfield, the CTO's director of resource mobilisation and development.

The CTO said it would continue to “diligently monitor the situation and pay close attention to guidance from regional public health officials”. The conference is now scheduled to take place November 25-27.

Tuesday March 17, 2020

PAGE 15

Kaieteur News

Magistrate revokes teen's bail Eighteen-year-old Daniel McArthur yesterday had his bail revoked after the Magistrate he appeared before was informed that he was held for questioning for an alleged robbery, a similar charge that he was released on bail for last November.

Yesterday McArthur was arraigned in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly who revoked his bail and remanded him to prison until April 28, 2020.

The court heard that the defendant was held for questioning at the Sparendaam Police Station in relation to another robbery matter.

The teen made his first court appearance on October 25, 2019, before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly. He was jointly charged for allegedly robbing Ethan Muckoo, on October 17, 2019, at Camp Street, Georgetown, of a Samsung Galaxy cell phone valued at $280,000, and an

Remanded: Daniel McArthur $80,000 iphone.

The court heard that during or immediately after the robbery, they used personal violence on Muckoo. The de-

fendants, Daniel McArthur, Shawn Inniss and Harcarlaus Harris, all denied the charge after it was read to them.

Meanwhile, McArthur was charged separately for robbing Juliet Wills of a brown handbag valued $5,000, a cell phone valued $65,000 and $2,000 cash on October 11, 2019 at Front Road Georgetown.

According to information received, the three boys were a part of a gang when they robbed Muckoo. The victim then ran after the group of boys until he caught up with them at Camp Street.

The court heard that the boys then relieved Ethan of another cell phone and one of the boys, who was armed with an ice-pick, stabbed Muckoo to his left shoulder.

Police prosecutor Sanj Singh had highlighted that the teens were positively identified by the victim and that the police also have video evidence.

WHO updates COVID-19 guidelines: Urges countries to “test, test, test” From page 13 efficiently deal with the global situation. Studies are also underway in laboratories in several countries to understand the different environmental conditions and surfaces in which the virus can persist.

It has been recommended that everyone be aware of their roles during this pandemic and WHO has urged that the responsibility is not solely on health sectors, but each citizen in taking the necessary measures to reduce the spread of the virus.

While everyone is at risk,

the body has noted too that the vulnerable population includes persons with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases and those over the age of 60 to be at a higher risk of death.

C o u n t r i e s h a v e been urged to have systems in place to find missing coronavirus cases to isolate those cases all in light of reducing onward transmission. Guyana has confirmed four cases of COVID-19. In following the health guidelines, persons are also advised to contact the

emergency hotline at 227-4986 extension 215 between the hours of 08:00 and16:30 and 624-6674 or 2819 between the hours of 16:30 and 0:800 if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms.

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 17, 2020

PAGE 17

Guyana slowly grinds to a halt From page 12 the 2020 sitting of the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).

According to the Ministry, all schools have been closed for two weeks beginning yesterday, March 16, 2020. During this period, the Ministry is scheduled to continue to assess the situation and engage in the sanitisation of all schools and its buildings to ensure that children, teachers and staff can return to a safe and healthy learning and working environment.

In the interim, the Education Ministry has put the general public on notice that due to the current situation, careful thought has been given to the scheduled dates for the administration of the NGSA. “As such, please be advised that the previously announced dates (April 8 and 9, 2020) are no longer valid.

Adequate notice will be given with regard to the new dates,” the Ministry even as he revealed that it has also warned against holding of private lessons,” the statement said.

The Ministry said that it was brought to its attention that some persons are still engaging in the practice of hosting private classes and has therefore urge such persons to desist from this and instead practice social distancing as efforts are made to keep the public safe from the novel coronavirus.

Parents are nonetheless encouraged to continue working with their children in preparation for this assessment. In addition, parents and students can visit the Ministry's website to access NGSA Practice Test Papers in the four core areas (visit the Ministry of Education website using https://bit.ly/39Y698S).

Children can also tune into the Guyana Learning Channel (Channel 42/Cable 29) to access the nursery to secondary school programmes and documentaries.

They can also listen to the Radio broadcasts of the Interactive Radio Instruction for Grades 1 – 3 daily, the Ministry informed.

The Ministry has also advised that pupils can continue to listen to Broadcasts to Schools for Grade 3-6 at 13:00h daily on NCN Radio.

The programmes can be accessed on the following radio stations: Mahdia, Bartica, Essequibo, Mabaruma, Lethem and Annai.

UG takes precaution The Transitional Management Committee (TMC) of the University of Guyana has advised that staff and students of both campuses (Turkeyen and Tain) and the Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE) will be absent from campus and working online for the next two weeks, until March 30, 2020. In a statement, the institution noted that the extension is applicable to all staff and students of UG, with the exception of those essential services staff in the

the period of highest vulnerability, that is, within 14 days of exposure.

Courts sanitized, SKYPE calls to deal with remand prisoners – Judiciary In view of the prevailing situation, the Judiciary has put several systems in place to guard against the spread of the disease, including dealing with remand prisoners via Skype.

In a statement from the Supreme Court on Sunday, it was noted that the decision was taken following a meeting with Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards,

as well as supervisors of court registries and offices, are asked to provide further guidance on the attendance of litigants and progress of trials and hearings.

GPOC implements necessary measures The Guyana Post Office Corporation, (GPOC) has said that, “all customer service agents, postal clerks and postmen and women have all been provided with face masks and gloves to use while attending to our valued customers.”

“It is a necessary precaution as we are

Meanwhile, the company announced suspension of field services too.

“Our field staff within our billing, metering and loss reduction departments will not be operational until April 2020, pending a review of the developments of the situation through the Ministry of Public Health.

Those metered customer accounts that will not be read from March 16, 2020 or unsuccessfully read prior to March 16, 2020 will be estimated if a reading is not submitted via our WhatsApp Service,” it revealed.

Customers are advised to

Tuesday 17th March, 2020, until further notice.

“Please be advised also that the Botanical Gardens and the National Park will remain open as we take extra precautionary measures to ensure that all of our public facilities are fully sanitised,” a statement by the PAC read.

Meanwhile, several sporting activities and public gathering have also been cancelled. For two weeks, the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, National Gymnasium, National Aquatic Center, Colgrain Pool will remain closed to facilitate sanitation

Consumers swarmed Beepats on Regent Street in search of cleaning supplies

R e g i s t r y, B u r s a r y, Maintenance, Security and Personnel Divisions who will be deployed on service as required. “This is a precautionary measure in response to NCV-19,” outlined the university statement.

In addition to several online programmes being available, UG is also prepared to offer extra-mural classes at four locations through its Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE). The institution has also promised to offer the opportunity for student engagement in debating, sports, and cultural, religious and professional activities.

The University said that it has been relying on scientific evidence emerging and based on modelling of the infection in large countries already affected. It has therefore taken note of the fact that the most effective means of managing the novel coronavirus is through mass containment procedures in

Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) and senior court officials on Friday.

The courts were fumigated and sanitised at the weekend starting with the Court of Appeal, the High Court in Demerara and the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts. Other measures include the use of sanitisers for everyone entering the court, providing sanitisers at strategic locations in the courts, and providing a Fact Sheet on COVID-19 to everyone.

Members of the public who do not have cases/matters in court but who seek to accompany friends and family are encouraged to stay away from the courts.

A response team has also been set up to deal with the preparedness, response, and interaction with public health agencies. The team will interface with staff and report to the Chancellor of the Judiciary.

Judges and Magistrates,

conscious of the exposure and risks identified with the COVID 19. We have also taken additional measures to continuously sanitise the customer service areas at all of our offices,” the GPOC said in a statement.

GPL suspends meter reading, other field exercises The Guyana Power and Light Corporation (GPL) noted that in recognition of health risks associated with the Coronavirus Disease, the company with effect from yesterday (March 16, 2020) initiated temporary modifications to various categories of service delivery.

“Efforts are however underway to accommodate applications for new services through our website www.gplinc.net before the end of the week dated Friday, March 20, 2020. Customers will be kept updated on the readiness of this online platform when it is completed,” the company said.

utilise the various electronic options of tendering payments including Mobile Money Guyana (MMG), Bill Express, SurePay and at commercial banks.

Pay bills online ---Enetworks E-Networks has also taken a similar line of action calling on its customers to take steps to deal with COVID-19.

The cable company announced that it will be temporarily reducing its staffing at branches and encourages its customers to utilise features offered by the company to conduct common transactions online, without needing to physically visit a branch. These features include its newly launched mobile app, “E-Networks ECare” available on Google Play and iOS App Store.

ZOO CLOSES The Protected Areas Commission (PAC) and the National Parks Commission (NPC) yesterday announced that the Georgetown Zoo will be closed beginning today,

activities.

The Ministry of Public Health has advised members of the public to reduce the risk of infection by frequently washing hands, exercising safe coughing techniques and avoiding close contact with anyone who has a fever or cough.

In a statement it said, “Workplaces should advise employees to stay at home if they are showing signs of COVID-19 and maintain social distance of at least three feet from people, especially those showing signs such as coughing, sneezing and high body temperature (fever). Do not visit hospitals or health centres if you are suspected to have COVID-19. Instead, immediately self-quarantine and contact MOPH hotline 227-4986/624-3069.”

In addition, the Ministry is seeking to get in contact with passengers who travelled on Caribbean Airlines flight BW 727 on March 12, 2020 from JFK to Georgetown.

PAGE 18

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 17, 2020

Tuesday March 17, 2020

PAGE 19

Kaieteur News

Anti-doping body ready to look into allegations about Fury LONDON (AP) — Britain’s anti-doping body is expected to look into allegations in a newspaper report in which a farmer said he was offered money to provide an alibi in support of Tyson Fury for a case involving the world heavyweight champion.

Fury and his cousin Hughie were handed retrospective two-year bans

by UK Anti-Doping in 2017 after initially testing positive in 2015 for nandrolone, which they blamed on eating uncastrated wild boar meat.

In the case, farmer Martin Carefoot said he provided the Furys with wild boar. But he has backtracked in an

Tyson Fury, of England, celebrates after defeating Deontay Wilder during a WBC heavyweight championship boxing match Saturday, Feb. 22, 2020, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Isaac Brekken)

Covid-19 Stalls local cricket...

Tuesday March 17, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Bask in each new day, Aries.

Do your best to spread your sunshine, but don't be surprised if someone challenges the way you think.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Love and romance should be going well for you now, Taurus. Something has sparked the detective in you and you're anxious to probe, inquire, and seek the truth in every situation.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) The indecisiveness that you feel regarding certain issues may be amplified today, Gemini. You may go to extremes from one side of the spectrum to the other.

CANCER(June21–July22) Your thinking should be clear today, and your sharp focus adept at r e v e a l i n g the truth of any situation. Your mind may be intertwined quite delicately with your heart, but the good news is that they're working harmoniously together.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Don't leave anyone behind as you gallivant through your world today. You're so wrapped up in your adventures that you're unaware of other people who could use more attention.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Love and romance are key aspects of the day, Virgo. You should find that things relating to these aspects of your life are going well.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You might need to take a step back today and turn your attention inward instead of outward. When it comes to love and romance, don't rush things. Patience is needed now more than ever.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your mind is like a fine sieve that filters even the smallest details from the whole, Scorpio.

Nothing escapes your attention today. You're right on top of the situation whether people realize it or not.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You may feel like you're sitting on a pincushion when it comes to issues regarding love and romance. Don't be surprised if there's conflict in this part of your life.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) There could be some verbal sparring as you tackle the challenges this new day brings, Capricorn. Love is on your side.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You may try to explain something with your brain today when the true understanding of the situation comes only through your heart. Feel the answerfrom deep within instead of trying to decipher it.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Your mind is especially keen today. You'll find that it communes well with your anxious heart. Someone may have recently stepped into your life and now it's time to engage with this person on a deeper level.

From page 23 the Sponsors, the UCCA and all stake holders to confirm what activities we will have on Sunday,” Jackman concluded.

CWI have postponed the last two rounds of the CWI four-day Championships for a month but Barbados on 134.8 points, are in an unassailable position and have already won their 22nd title with two rounds to go.

All other West Indies Regional tournaments including the female, U-15 and U-17 have also been halted for a month, while all ICC’s International series have also been put on hold due to Covid-19.

The Indian Premier League is also delayed with one of the options is to play the tournament as a closed door event. (Sean Devers)

interview with British newspaper The Mail on Sunday, saying he was offered 25,000 pounds (nearly $31,000) to make up the story in order to aid their case.

Boxing promoter Frank Warren, who currently works with Tyson Fury, has described the farmer’s claims as “outrageous” and “a load of rubbish.”

“We’ll leave this with UKAD to look into and don’t expect it to go any further,” Warren said.

Asked for comment on the new claims about the Furys’ anti-doping case, UKAD said: “We will always review any potential evidence in relation to any anti-doping offense, and take investigatory action where necessary.”

UKAD urged anyone with information that could be of interest to contact its organization and said it will only comment on an investigation when it’s

concluded, and only then if there was a successful prosecution.

Neither Fury has publicly commented on the newspaper story. Tyson Fury’s representatives, MTK Global, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Tyson Fury beat Deontay Wilder in Las Vegas last month to become WBC champion. In November 2015 — after he tested positive for nandrolone, but before he was charged and subsequently handed a ban — he became a WBA, IBF and WBO champion by beating Wladimir Klitschko.

WBC champion Mauricio Sulaiman told The Sun that the issue “does not impact on him (Fury) being our heavyweight world champion” because Fury was “not involved with the WBC” at the time of his case with UKAD.

PAGE 20

Tuesday March 17, 2020

Kaieteur News

Antigua and Barbuda Rifle Association host RAFTRC as Goodwill Tour conclude Even in the face of the Noval Corona Virus (COVID – 19) Global Pandemic that has rocked the world including the Caribbean, the Antigua and Barbuda Rifle Association (A&BRA) last weekend successfully hosted the Royal Air Force Target Rife Club (RAFTRC) team which ended a two-nation Goodwill Tour to the Caribbean.

Their first stop was the ‘Land of the Flying Fish’, Barbados where the visitors won the Team Match 1049.31 to 1125.67 that was tallied by the Barbados Rifle Association (BRA), the match took place at the Paragon Ranges.

The RAFTRC team was met on arrival in Antigua & Barbuda by President of the Antigua and Barbuda Rifle Association Thomas Greenaway, Antigua Team Captain Christopher Joseph and Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Shooting Club, Rev. Olson Daniel.

Team members of the host, Antigua and Barbuda Rifle Association and the Royal Air Force Target Rife Club of England take time out for a group pic prior to the Team Match.

A Meet and Greet between the two nations was held on Thursday last ahead of competition, Saturday and Sunday at the Crabbs Rifle

Range.

When competition got going on Saturday as described by Rev. Daniel, “The day began with very

Tokyo 2020 Games handover ceremony stripped down to bare bones ATHENS (Reuters) - The Tokyo 2020 Olympics flame handover ceremony in Athens this week will be a scaled-down event with only a few Tokyo Games officials and torch bearers inside the stadium to protect everyone from the coronavirus, the Hellenic Olympic Committee said yesterday.

The handover ceremony usually attracts thousand of spectators, officials and ceremony participants in the central Athens’ Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first modern Olympics in 1896.

They will traditionally cheer as the last Greek torch enters the stadium after a oneweek domestic relay, for the official handover to the next Olympic Games host city.

This time round, however, it will just be a handful of

actresses playing the roles of ancient Greek Priestesses, a small Tokyo Games delegation and four torch relay runners - two Greek and two Japanese - in the marble stadium that can seat up to 50,000.

“The Handover Ceremony will take place in the presence of the President of the Hellenic Republic... and of a small delegation of the Tokyo 2020 organising committee,” the HOC said in a statement.

“There will be a dance of the priestesses that will not exceed the number of 10, and a torch relay of two Greek torchbearers and two Japanese torchbearers, that will take place inside the Panathenaic Stadium.”

The stadium, as previously announced, will be closed to the public to stem the spread of the virus.

Greece last week cancelled the remainder of the domestic Olympic torch relay through the country to avoid attracting crowds a day after the Tokyo Games flame was lit in ancient Olympia.

Greece has had four fatalities from the disease and more than 300 cases by Monday. Japan is still preparing to host the Olympics, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Saturday, despite rising global concern about the viability of the summer Games due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Abe and his government as well as the International Olympic Committee have been adamant the July 24Aug 9 Games will go ahead, even as other global sporting events have been put on hold.

typical and sunny conditions with a strong enough wind but what was not so typical and ordinary was the fact that the winds were coming from the left.

The Crabbs Rifle Range usually has a wind coming from the right from off the sea.

The mirage was very shifty and moving in unusual ways.”

RAFTRC David Calvert Scott Glanville Christopher Hockley Christopher Fitzpatrick Michael Silver Jonathan Ford Steve Green Jim Lindsay David Niblett Karen Ryan Michael Gregory

A d d i t i o n a l l y, R e v.

Daniel informed, “When we began the RAFTRC had a total of 11 shooters and Antigua had only 9 so we advised that all 11 shooters would go ahead and shoot against our 9 and at the end of the day we would just subtract the 2 lowest scores from our visitors.

But by the time we got to 300 50.4 50.4 47.1 50.7 47.3 48.2 47.3 49.4 44.3

500 50.4 49.2 49.4 47.1 50.4 45.3 43.1 44.2 47.3 42 43 432.31 509.24 Antigua and Barbuda Rifle Association Anderson Perry 48.4 47.3 Christopher Joseph 45.6 47.2 Rev. Olsen Daniel 47.4 45.4 Tommy Greenaway 43.1 47.3 Laurne Benjamin 45.1 45.3 Valrie Newman 41.1 43.1 Noah Sinclair 42.1 40.3 Nadja George 40.1 42.2 Daryl Charles 45.1 38 Rohit Dukhiram 45.1 Zuber Patel 40.1 396.20 479.23

the 500 yards range we had an additional two shooters so we were now evenly balanced going forward.

Even though the sun was out in all its glory and the visitors felt the heat they had a good time and they emerged the winners by 86 points and a few V bulls.”

Following are the Team scores:

600 49.4 49.3 47.2 45.3 44 46.1 47.3 44 44.1 42.2 38 495.19

Total 149.12 148.9 143.7 142.11 141.7 139.6 137.7 137.6 135.7 84.2 81 1436.74

46.4 47.2 46.1 48.3 47.3 46.4 43.4 40.1 34 42 36 475.22

141.11 139.10 138.9 138.7 137.7 130.6 125.8 122.4 117.1 87.1 76.1 1350.65

NSC responds to COVID-19 Virus challenge Second torchbearer, Japanese former marathon runner Noguchi Mizuki carries the torch during the opening of the Olympic flame torch relay for the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics. (REUTERS/Alkis Konstantinidis)

Considering the presence of the COVID19 Virus within our country, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced the immediate closure of all of its facilities for a period of two (2) weeks to facilitate sanitation work.

The list of facilities includes, Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, National Gymnasium, National Aquatic Centre, Colgrain Pool and the National Racquet/Sports Resource

Centre.

According to an NSC release, this move is in keeping with guidelines from the Ministries of the Presidency and Public Health since these facilities are generally under mass usage. Any queries/concerns could be addressed by calling the NSC office at Homestretch Avenue on 225 6340 / 225 3560 between the hours of 08:00hrs and 12:00hrs.

The Department regrets any inconvenience caused but would like to thank the public for their support and understanding.

Tuesday March 17, 2020

Mohammed slams 104 against Canada before tournament suspension Sudesh Dhaniram

CAPE TOWN - West Indies Over-50s middle order batsman Azad Mohammed hit a fluent century against Canada on Sunday in round three of the Over-50s Cricket World Cup at Western Province Cricket Club just before tournament organizers pulled the curtains on the 12team show piece due to the threat of Coronavirus.

Speaking to the teams and members of the public at the completion of West Indies’ innings, Chairman of the tournament Stirling Hamman said “a decision was made with consultations from four specialist doctors in South Africa to suspend the Over50s Cricket World Cup with immediate effect and to urge teams to return to their respective homes as soon as possible. This is due to the rapid spreading Corona virus in South Africa and around the world. It is unfortunate but it is the best decision at this time.”

Prior to the news of the suspension, West Indies and Canada were in the middle of a key group A fixture with the

Roy Singh

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Caribbean side opting to bat first. After losing their first two matches in their first such tournament, West Indies were desperate for an improved showing especially with the bat and they got it.

Mohammed walked to the crease with his side tottering at 40-3 in the 11th over and immediately went to work. His first assignment was to repair the innings after the top order was blown for the third consecutive time. After the stability, the right handed batsman then launched an assault to see West Indies to 243-7 from their 45 overs.

Earlier, West Indies lost openers Narine Bishesi (2) at 4-1 and Ishwar Maraj (15) at 30-2 followed by Julian Charles (7) at 40-3 and were desperate for a partnership against the fired up Canadians.

Mohammed popularly called ‘Parlour Boy’ got to his first 50 from 57 balls with 7 fours and while at the crease saw the fall of Sudesh Dhaniram LBW for the third consecutive time for 20 and Rajendra Sadeo for 10 but he kept going and found the

perfect partner in Roy Singh.

Singh picked the gaps to rotate the strike nicely and hit 6 boundaries of his own as he grew in confidence.

However, as he was approaching his half century he was bowled for 44 leaving Mohammed at the other end on 93 not out ending the 113run partnership for the sixth wicket with 15 balls still available.

Mohammed kept going and moved from 94 to 100 with a massive six over long on before Puvi Ravishankar (2/ 38) cleaned him up. The Trinidadian faced 97 balls hitting 15 fours and a six to put West Indies on the verge of a massive win before the disappointing news broke.

New ball bowler Naveed Serai with 3/29 was the pick of the bowlers with his accurate seamers while Vince Correia (1/45) and David Mohammed (1/46) supported.

Tournament directors will convene a meeting as soon as the threat of the deadly virus subsides to determine the way forward, as was confirmed by Hamman.

T20 specialist Rutherford still has interest in Test Cricket

By Sean Devers Twenty-one-year-old Sherfane Rutherford was born on August 15, 1998 and grew up in the fast paced era of T20 cricket. It was natural for him to quickly gravitate to that format as a little boy growing up in the East Coast Demerara Village of Enmore.

The pugnacious lefthanded batsman who bowls right-arm medium pace was eight-years old when Ramnaresh Sarwan led Guyana to the Stanford T20 title in 2006 in Antigua when Narsingh Deonarine slogswept leg-spinner Samuel Badree for six with five needed from two balls.

The US$ one million prize money won by the Guyanese in their first official T20 tournament organised by Texas billionaire Allen Stanford changed the lives of the Guyanese players and probably the way this generation of cricketers sees cricket in dollar sign; equating how much a player can earn for a three-hour match as opposed to four or five days in two innings cricket.

“Since I was little I used to hit the ball harder than those players of my age and that’s how I got interested in T20 cricket. It has allowed me to see many Countries, meet different people and give me a good living for doing something I love doing,” said Rutherford, who has played six T20Is for the West Indies.

Rutherford was born in the year that 50-overs cricket was first played at Regional U-19 level in Trinidad & Tobago.

From then it was played alongside the three-day format but over the last four years the three-day version has been reduced, with no three-day being played last year which suggests that the focus at a young age is on producing white ball cricketers as opposed Tests players.

But Rutherford, who played for Enmore, Everest, DCC and now Police, says he is still interested in playing First-Class cricket and Test Cricket but his focus is presently on the IPL in India.

A product of the local Academy system, Rutherford did not accept the GCI’s contract which would have restricted him from plying his

trade around the world in the growing number of T20 franchises.

Rutherford made his firstclass debut for Guyana in the 2017 Regional Four Day Competition on 15 April 2017 and has played 17 First-Class games and has 486 runs with three fifties and a highest score of 93. But his FirstClass average is 23.14.

However, he has not played First-Class since March last year, while he has two half-centuries in 20 List A matches between January 2018 and July 2019 for Guyana and West Indies A. The talented youngster, who previously represented Delhi Capitols, was traded to defending champions Mumbai Indians in this year’s IPL which has been pushed to back to April 15 from March 29 due to the world-wide pandemic of the Covid-19.

Rutherford will join fellow West Indian Kieron Pollard in a strong MI squad which includes Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Quinton de Kock and Lasith Malinga.

One of the options is that matches in the IPL will be played as a closed door event with no spectators.

Rutherford, who is tentatively set to leave for India this week, does not have a problem with the tournament being played as a closed door event.

“While the big crowds will create a great atmosphere and motivate the home team, this is for the safety of all and we are professionals and are paid to do a job in any conditions.

So despite the fans might not be at the ground and the atmosphere might not be what we are accustomed to, we will still have go out and perform to help MI retain the title,” Rutherford explained.

His T20 career took off after he was named in the West Indies ‘B’ Team for the inaugural edition of the Global T20 Canada tournament in June 2018, a team led by fellow Guyanese Anthony Bramble.

He was the leading runscorer in the tournament for West Indies ‘B’, with 230 runs in eight matches including a brutal unbeaten 134 which helped his team to the final.

He made his Twenty20 debut for Guyana Amazon Warriors in the 2018

Caribbean Premier League on August 9, 2018.

In October 2018, he was named in the squad for the Khulna Titans team, following the draft for the 2018–19 Bangladesh Premier League and was named in the West Indies’ T20I squad for series against India, but he did not play.

He eventually made his T20I debut for the West Indies in December 2018 and later that month was bought by the Delhi Capitals in the player auction for the 2019 Indian Premier League.

In 2018, Rutherford led the Bengal Tigers to a sixwicket win over Maratha Arabians in the second edition of the T10 League at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium with a brutal 46 from 21 balls with a four and six sixes. The highlight of his innings was four consecutive sixes against Rashid in the seventh over.

In June 2019, he was selected to play for the Edmonton Royals franchise team in the 2019 Global T20 Canada tournament, while in November 2019 he was selected to play for the Sylhet Thunder in the 2019–20 Bangladesh Premier League.

Rutherford feels that not enough cricket is being played in especially Georgetown, which is a reason that forces players to go overseas.

“We are not playing enough local cricket…..players just go to practice every day and they have no cricket to play at weekends. In a year you might have about five or six first division games which could be frustrating for the players. The more matches you play the better you will get,” said Rutherford who says his favourite City is Dubai in the UAE. Rutherford’s advice to young sportsmen and women is to train hard, be dedicated to working on whatever sport they play and despite where you come from never give up on your dream of ‘making it’ big.

Sherfane Eviston Rutherford is a perfect example of a young lad from a humble background, defying the odds to become a Millionaire from playing the sport he loves.

PAGE 22

Tuesday March 17, 2020

Kaieteur News

Hockey training continues despite COVID-19 pandemic

The Smalta/icool under-14 development league has been suspended indefinitely.

Robert Fernandes, head coach of the National m e n ’s hockey team informed that the team is currently in preparation mode for the Pan American Challenge Cup that is scheduled for Lima, Peru, this June, during an interview with Kaieteur S p o r t y e s t e r d a y.

He revealed that training has continued for the National team despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fernandes, posited that, “The National team is training but we had to change some of practices during sessions.

I used to have the guys greet each other but we had to cut that out.

It was a psychological exercise that fostered team bonding but we are taking every precaution since the coronavirus pandemic to protect our players.

In addition, players will now have to sanitise their

hands before and after each practice session.”

The level III certified instructor further revealed that the Guyana Hockey Board (GHB), up to yesterday had not received any correspondence from Pan American Hockey Federation (PAHF) in relation to the Pan Am Challenge being postponed so the team continues to train in order to be prepared i f the tournament doesn’t meet the

National men’s hockey training continues despite COVID-19. fate of many other global sporting events that have been either cancelled or postponed.

However, the Smalta/ iCool under-14 development indoor league has been postponed indefinitely.

The tournament played one round in February but it

took a break for the General Election and with the Covid19 virus that has forced the Ministry of Education (MOE) to suspend schools coupled with the current political situation in Guyana, it may be a while until local hockey competition resumes with no other tournament being

scheduled to hit off.

The national men’s hockey team practices on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground, while the women’s side practices on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. (Calvin Chapman)

Bowlers, Abel lead Regal Masters to Latif Grocery Shop and Car Wash softball title The triumphant Regal Masters team with their hardware.

Roy Persaud accepts his manof-the-match prize from Rakeeb Latif.

By Zaheer Mohamed A spirited bowling performance, led by Roy Persaud and a quick-fire 42 from Eon Abel handed Regal Masters a five-wicket victory over Wellman Masters when the teams collided in the final game of the Richard Latif Grocery Shop and Car

Wash round robin 15-over softball competition which was contested on Sunday at Malteenoes Sports Club.

By virtue of winning the contest, their second win in as many matches, Regal Masters pocketed the championship trophy.

Wellman Masters opted to bat and lost opener Hardat Heeranandan (01), bowled by Saheed Mohamed before Troy Lewis and Rawle Reid added 36 for the second wicket. Lewis struck three sixes in scoring 25 off 13 balls before he was caught off Roy Persaud. Persaud bowled

with pace and accuracy and soon sent back the experienced Wayne Jones for seven before uprooting the stumps of Lloyd Ruplall (00) with a beauty, to leave the score at 50-4. Reid struck five fours and two sixes before he was caught off David Harper for 49.

The steady Harper then disturbed the stumps of Nandram Samlall (06) while Mohamed had Ramo Malone (04) caught as Wellman Masters slipped into further trouble. Khalid Haslim picked up the wickets of Seeraj Bhimsain (02) and Sheldon

Perch (00); Wellman Masters were bowled out for 98 in 13.3 overs. Persaud finished with 3-18 from three overs while Harper took 2-16, Mohamed 2-18 and Haslim 2-22.

Opener Unnis Yusuf (00) was brilliantly caught at square leg off Perch in the first over as Regal Masters lost their first wicket without a run on the board. However, Khemchand Dindyal and Eon Abel stabilised the chase nicely with a second wicket stand of 61. Abel smashed Reid for a couple of sixes before he was caught off Samlall for 42 which came off

19 balls and contained one four and five sixes.

Following the dismissal of Dindyal, caught off Jones for 18, Regal Masters lost Saheed Mohamed (01) run out and Rudolph Baker (01) bowled by Perch to find themselves in a spot of bother at 65-5. However, any hopes of a Wellman Masters win quickly vanished as Eric Thomas and skipper Mahendra Hardyal calmly carried their team over the line with an unbroken sixth wicket partnership of 35; Regal Masters ended on 100-5 in 13.1 overs. Thomas finished

unbeaten on 20 with one four and two sixes while Hardyal made 13 not out including one four and one six. Perch took 2-10 while Jones and Samlall had one apiece. Roy Persaud was named man-of-thematch.

Richard Latif, proprietor of Richard Latif Grocery Shop and Car Wash which is located at 53 Austin Street, Campbellville, congratulated the winning team and thanked Malteenoes Sports Club for facilitating the competition. Park Rangers were the third team that took part.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 17, 2020

PAGE 23

Cornelia Ida are WDCA/Beacon Café 50-over champs

The victorious Cornelia Ida team with President of the WDCA Anand Sanasie (right) and Competition’s Committee Chairman Omar Hussain (left).

Vaickash Dhaniram accepts the man-of-the-match prize from Abha Persaud.

C

ornelia Ida were c r o w n e d champions of the West Demerara Cricket Association (WDCA)/Beacon Café 50over tournament following a three-wicket victory over Mc Gill Super Stars of Canal Number One in the final which was contested on Sunday.

Batting first at Wales, Mc Gill Super Stars lost opener Prahalad Singh caught off Richie Looknauth without s c o r i n g b e f o r e Tr a v i s Persaud and Balram Aron put on 33 for the second wicket. Persaud struck three fours and one six before he was removed by Akshaya Persaud for 22 off 28 balls, while Keshram Seyhodan was caught off Persaud for three as Mc Gill Super Stars were reduced to 40-3. Aron and Diquan Murray (12) added 20 for the fourth wicket, but following their separation, the batting went

downhill as Mc Gill were bowled out for 97 in 37 overs. Aron made 15, while Troy Persaud contributed 14 as Harrinarine Bissondyal and Mohamed Wazidali claimed 3-7 each while Persaud had 2-26.

Cornelia Ida were pegged back early in the chase, losing Khellawan Tulcan (06) and Akshaya Persaud (00) before Arshad Azim and Richie Looknauth steadied the innings somewhat as they added 36 for the third wicket. Azim was bowled by Murray for 27 which came off 45 balls and included three fours while Looknauth was caught off Abdul Razack for 11, leaving the score on 49-4.

Cornelia Ida then plunged into further trouble as they lost Wazidali and Dhaniram Azrudeen, both without scoring, before Vaickash Dhaniram and Richard Sukhdeo took their team closer to victory with a

The runner up Mc Gill Super Stars team. seven-wicket stand of 34.

However, pacer Murray gave Mc Gill Super Stars some hope when he trapped Sukhdeo lbw for 15, but

Dhaniram and Naveed Ali kept their calm to see Cornelia Ida to victory as they ended on 100-7 in 35.4 overs. Dhaniram remained

unbeaten on 25, while Ali made eight not out. Murray finished with 2-20 while Abdool Razack took 2-21.

Cornelia Ida pocketed a

trophy and $100,000 while Mc Gill Super Stars took home a trophy and $50,000.

Dhaniram was named manof-the-match.

Covid-19 Stalls local cricket The Global Pandemic Covid-19 or coronavirus has also spread to the local Sports World resulting in the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) and Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) following the lead of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) and postponing all local cricket competitions for a month.

Chairman of the Competitions Committee of the GCA, Shawn Massiah informed that among the tournaments affected is the annual New York tri-state and GCA’s U-19 fifty overs competition which was scheduled to commence on April 7.

GCA’s Shaun Massiah “We have not played any cricket since Mash day because of the First-Class games at Providence and then Elections …and now the Coronavirus (Covid-19).

The New York Tri-State U19 team was a part of the tournament but canceled their tour to Guyana due to the spread of the virus

worldwide,” Massiah lamented.

President of the BCB Hilbert Foster disclosed that while no Covid-19 related illnesses have been reported in Berbice, the BCB has decided to put all of their competitions on hold.

“I have only seen one person in Rose Hall Town wearing a face mask but since the outbreak of the Virus was reported in Guyana, only one or two players have been coming to practice and the only area in Berbice that cricket is still being played is in the Upper Corentyne,” Foster informed.

When contacted,

President of the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association (UCCA), former Guyana WicketKeeper Sidney Jackman, confirmed that their premier First Divison competition is at the final stage and is set to conclude on Sunday.

“We have planned to play our final on Sunday from 13:00hrs at number 69 Village as a big event with music and ball-by-ball commentary. After that game we will close off all cricket for a month or until this situation improves,” Jackman said.

“We have planned a meeting for tomorrow with (Continued on page 19)

UCCA’s Sidney Jackman and BCB’s Hilbert Foster.

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Azad Mohammed slammed 100 for the Caribbean side.

Mohammed slams 104 against Canada before tournament suspension

Antigua and Barbuda Rifle Association host RAFTRC as Goodwill Tour conclude

Sherfane Rutherford scores leg-side runs in the CPL.

T20 specialist Rutherford still has interest Tokyo 2020 Games handover ceremony stripped down to bare bones in Test Cricket The RAFTRC and Antigua and Barbuda Rifle Association Teams in battle at the Crabbs Rifle Range on Saturday last in the Goodwill Team Match.

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