K
Court allows NEWS political parties to join elections recount proceedings AIETEUR
p. 18
Saturday Edition March 21, 2020 - Vol. 14 No. 12
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I don’t buy Mingo’s numbers; who vex, vex !
Region 4 results...
- Investigate wrong doings at GECOM p. 13
“We need a new model of governance which works for us and which doesn’t incite this level of divisiveness every five years. This is not something that can be left to any incumbent to address. It will never happen. There must be a binding commitment from all parties as part of a packaged resolution of the current situation.” - Dominic Gaskin
Flawed elections results could damage Guyana’s int’l standing - US State Dept. p. 8
Limited journalists, Reduce interest IMF says Guyana among rates, defer p.3 countries least prepared lawyers, spectators loan payment, p. allowed to enter High Court waive ATM fees to tackle coronavirus 13 COVID-19 safety p. precautions… 8
BoG asks banks to:
All ballot boxes taken back to GECOM HQ
p. 2
Stalled electoral process, security threats, coronavirus cause Carter Center, EU observers to withdraw from Guyana p. 8
All ballot boxes taken back to GECOM HQ
T
he containers which hold the ballot boxes from the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections have been transported from the Arthur Chung Convention Center [ACCC] back to the Guyana Elections Commission [GECOM] Headquarters in Kingston, Georgetown. The containers are set to remain there until the current court injunction is heard and resolved. Kaieteur News had reported that the ballots were transported to the Convention Center on Monday to facilitate the national recount however, since the current court injunction puts a temporary block on the recount process, the ballots have been transported to their original storage site. O n l y r e c e n t l y, s i x political parties had raised concerns about the ballot boxes being stored at two separate locations; the ACCC and GECOM
Saturday March 21, 2020
Kaieteur News
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New Amsterdam man succumbs 10 days after involvement in fight Dead: Keron Nicholson
The containers with the ballot boxes at the GECOM headquarters in Kingston
A
headquarters. Kaieteur News had pointed this out to the GECOM Public Relations Officer, Ms. Yolanda Ward, but received no response. In a joint statement, the parties pushed for security of the ballots, citing that this can only be achieved by “all containers being stored at a central location and to permit party scrutineers to be
on site and guard against any tampering with the ballot boxes.” “…the container with Region 6 ballots and the container with the Region 4 East Coast ballots are not stored at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre in Liliendaal, where all the other containers for the other regions and sub-regions are stored.
We urgently request that this irregularity be corrected immediately,” the joint statement said. These provisions have been met as the same facilities that were in place at the Convention Center whereas one party member was allowed to keep watch on the containers, will be identical at the GECOM headquarters.
33-year-old man who was dealt several blows about his body during a heated argument and scuffle on 8th March last succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday (18th March) at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Dead is Keron Nicholson of Patrick Dam, Angoy's Avenue, New Amsterdam, Berbice. Reports are that Nicholson got engaged in a heated argument with some fellow
villagers, and it escalated into a physical fight that led to him sustaining several blows about his body. Relatives, who had rushed out to see the commotion, found Nicholson lying on the street in an unconscious state. He was immediately picked up and rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital. Due to the extent of his injuries, he was then transferred to the public hospital in the capital city where he later succumbed. Police are currently on the hunt for a suspect.
Kaieteur News
Saturday March 21, 2020
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Guyana gets PAHO support to boost COVID-19 response T
he resilience of health sectors around the world is currently being tested as efforts are made to adequately respond to the threat of COIVD-19, the novel coronavirus. Moreover, any forthcoming support in this quest is readily accepted. Guyana just yesterday benefited from such support from the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation [PAHO/WHO]. In this regard, the Ministry received a quantity of Personal Protective Equipment [PPE] and other items which will be used by public health staff of the Health Emergency Operations Centre which has been activated to strategically address the emergence of the disease. This is according to a report disseminated by the Department of Public Information. In that report, it was revealed by Minister of P u b l i c H e a l t h , Vo l d a Lawrence, that the handover of these critical items serves as an assurance that Guyana is prepared to handle any eventualities in its fight to stop the spread of the virus.
Some of the items that were handed over. [Aubrey Odle Photo]
“Here in Guyana, this means much to us because it helps us in our preparation and I think it also adds to the fact that when we speak to our people, and we speak of having the necessary items in place like the protective gear, that is provided here for our staff and volunteers to use in this fight,” she said. The Minister expressed appreciation to the PAHO/WHO for the needed support. Responding to the Minister, the PAHO/WHO Country Representative, Dr.
William Adu-Krow, said the donation of PPEs supports much of the work that has already been done in Guyana with regards to the issue at hand. He added, “We have done a lot; the country has done a lot in this fight to be where we are. Had it not been for the activities that have been in place, it would have been a worse situation… Basically, it is Personal Protective Equipment and other items that are needed and there are the goggles, the N95 masks,
BOG asks banks to: reduce interest rates, defer loan payment, waive ATM fees
T
he Bank of Guyana (BoG) has asked commercial banks to take steps to reduce the impact of the Coronavirus (COVID19) on customers. A c c o r d i n g t o correspondence seen, Governor of BoG, Dr. Gobind Ganga, has floated a number of possibilities to the Guyana Association of Bankers (GAB). Among other things, there should be a deferring for loan payments and reduction of interest rates on loans. The letter was sent to head of the GAB, Richard Isava, who is the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI). The banks that are part of the association would include Bank of Baroda, Scotiabank, Republic Bank, Citizen Bank, Demerara
BoG's Governor, Dr. Gobind Ganga Bank, and GBTI. “As Guyana continues to implement measures to deal with COVID 19, the Bank of Guyana is cognizant of the likely economic and financial fallout that may result, particularly the
negative effects on the bank s y s t e m , ” D r. G a n g a acknowledged in his letter. He said that BoG will use its regulatory powers to relax its powers and allow banks to pass the measures to its customers. In addition to a reduction of interest rates on loans and credit card customers, commercial banks were also asked to defer loan payments to assist customers in good standing; defer loan payments by companies to assist with their liquidity requirements and waive or reduce fees/penalties for transactions with ATMs, POS, EFT, debit card processing and late payments on loans, etc. They are also being asked to take measures to reduce in-person transactions by using ebanking, ATMs, POS and (continued on page 8)
The Public Health Ministry has received a quantity to PPEs in its response to COVID-19. In photo (from left): Coordinator, HEOC, Dr. Collin James; PAHO/WHO Country Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow; Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, and MoPH Permanent Secretary, Colette Adams. [Aubrey Odle Photo] the surgical masks, the suits.” It was noted too that the PAHO/WHO's office in Guyana has been playing a significant role in ensuring the requisite support is made available. As such, Dr. AduKrow further assured that the technical agency, he heads,
will be with the Health Ministry every step of the way in the ongoing fight against COVID-19. The Ministry has been tracking in excess of 200 persons who might have been exposed to those infected. However, as at yesterday,
the number of confirmed cases remained five, a health official said. All of the infected persons are said to be relatives who'd spend time together at a Good Hope, East Coast Demerara residence. Health officials are of the belief that the virus was imported.
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Saturday March 21, 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
Misguided mindsets There are large schools of thinking in this country that believe - rather stubbornly and determinedly -that a foolproof counting process, one that is widely observed and blessed, will lead to a way out of the impasse, the solution to our problems. That is only valid for as far as it goes, and it is the height of wishful thinking that things will settle down and life will return to its normal divided rhythms. Wrong! And all counts. For, at that point, there will be the incontestable evidence, which confirms this irrefutable reality: somebody, one of the only two remaining groups left standing, would come up short. It might be by a whisker, but it does not matter even if it is by a single vote. What matters is that that group would have come in second. And in this country at this time, second is the equivalent of eternal damnation, an unacceptable wilderness towards which there is the irreversible determination that there will be no travelling. This is the totality of our current torrid times and circumstances, all roads culminate and terminate at this unhappy and unnerving point. In times past, we have hovered on the brink and somehow always discovered a last-minute mechanism - a temporary respite and arrangement, it must be acknowledged -that helps us to trudge along. Not necessarily forward, sometimes not even sideways. We bide time, going along to get along (in the immortal words of the battered Rodney King). We get along, but how! We go along, but to where is the mystery that continues to elude us. What is not mysterious and now grudgingly accepted is that mediocrity reigns and underachievement on a national scale has become the satisfying norm. But the bottom line in all of this, and for the longest while, is that we do manage to go along and get along in some fashion. That is the forlorn hope now in many circles. It is both misplaced and misguided, for it does not take the time to gauge the depths and intensities of the emerging Guyanese oil era. Anybody, any group of people, that is not wholly and meaningfully involved from the inception in its management and control believes that it is doomed to the realm of has-beens. And that from that, there is no recovery. The visions and imaginations of the money and power that come from that oil have driven us past the point of madness. There is little by way of reasoning and rationalising now, of pausing and assessing, of weighing the pros and cons of the various political scenarios and the minimal options open for possible exploration. There is neither interest nor commitment to any of that, for that distracts from the enchantment of the moment. This is what is different this time, where each group has been brainwashed into wanting all for itself, as run by itself, and as enjoyed by itself. This is at the heart of what the fight for power is about, although none would be honest enough to admit this publicly. It is why no leader, and no group, exhibits any inclination towards anything resembling compromise. This is why there is the greatest of difficulty, the hardest of resistance, to searching for and finding and then following a course that spreads the oil wealth, that shares the national treasures. When all the noisy quarrels about enfranchisement and courts and procedures and addition are examined critically, this is where every conclusion brings: the final, incontestable of a political plurality of one winner and with everything that such victory guarantees. So what are we still hoping for then, other than it is our group that triumphs? Surely, it cannot be that there will be a resumption of the traditional governance stalemates? Alternatively, that the passions that raged and the prejudices provoked will dissipate into civilised coolness? Nobody wants to talk to the other anymore. Nobody desires to be by the side of those on the other side, given what was exposed before the whole world. Nobody has any regard for those not of their side. Yet it is this what we are fighting to perpetuate and what we battle to maintain. This is folly; it is a fool’s paradise.
For democracy to stand, GECOM cannot lose that may not have a vested interest in supporting GECOM’s the battle for truth independence and ability to perform its constitutional duty without interference. DEAR EDITOR, Following media coverage on GECOM throughout the election cycle, but more particularly at this period of post-voting controversy the public - domestic, regional and international - will benefit greatly from information emanating directly from the Commission. This is given that GECOM has the constitutional mandate of responsibility for many of these processes which are under review by your external public. As a workers’ representative and being personally concerned about the accuracy of non-GECOM information and its impact on the public about matters that GECOM has firsthand information of, I am calling on GECOM to provide this nation with a daily, or otherwise determined, convenient schedule of updates. Where necessary, corrections of every bit of information that are placed in the public domain and can affect public confidence in the process should be addressed via all available media. Of note, GECOM’s facebook account that can be an accessible source of information was addressed on the 2nd, 3rd and 17th only in the month of March, when so many contentious issues have occurred. GECOM does itself no well by remaining silent and being drowned in a tsunami of information put forward by sources
In Stabroek News, the 20th March, 2020 edition, it is insinuated in an article captioned “Six parties call for vote recount - urge protection of ballot boxes” that the ballot boxes, particularly those of Region 4, are at risk of being compromised. In another article recently, state police guarding the boxes also surfaced as an issue of mistrust. These are just examples of the many areas of information that require clarification, for they serve to undermine public trust and the credibility of this constitutional office. GECOM is reminded, as often as information that threatens its public image, independence and credibility is made public, an immediate response becomes absolutely necessary, if the Commission’s public image and ability to perform its constitutional duty without external interference is to be upheld. GECOM must take responsibility for disseminating information that will contribute to creating a post-electoral communication environment driven by valid and credible facts. If democracy is to stand, GECOM cannot afford to lose this battle to destroy its truth with information influencing public opinion against it. Lincoln Lewis
The other powers and ‘observers’ can go make their countries banana republics...leave Guyana alone! DEAR EDITOR, The events taking place in Guyana after the general and regional elections on March 2, 2020 have laid bare the true nature and interests of all the true and self-proclaimed stakeholders in the country’s political process. We have the governing APNU+AFC, the opposition PPP, foreign powers, ‘observers’, and the little ragtag outfits whose scream for attention far outweigh any numerical support. Everything was going fine, and the elections were given a clean bill of health until the Returning Officer of Region Four attempted to make a lawful declaration that would have tilted the balance in favour of APNU+AFC. That is when the grand conspirators went into motion. Suddenly the PPP had different numbers, and the US, Britain, Canada and EU found the process not credible. Their disgusting behaviour was plain for all to see, so I will not rehash those. They kept shifting the goalposts, and will only stop if the PPP is declared the winner. The foreign powers are clearly working overtime to ensure a PPP victory. It is downright disrespectful to our sovereignty for them to dictate the conduct of our elections instead of the constitution and laws of Guyana. First, they wanted all Statements of Poll to be tabulated, this was done, then they wanted them to be displayed on a projector, this was done, and even after that, they cried foul with the final declaration. The EU ‘Observers’ had the nerve to demand to see statements of poll, to obviously find a reason to discredit them. The Chief Justice clearly said that the only thing the Returning Officer of Region
Four needed to do was either restart the tabulation process or continue from where he left off using the statements of poll. This was done in accordance with the laws of Guyana. For foreign powers to attempt to invent a process that they call ‘credible’, goes far beyond normal diplomatic behaviour in a host country. It was very curious and intriguing that even before the western countries threatened Guyana with sanctions, Jagdeo was able to say that this would be done if President Granger was declared the winner. The western powers, particularly the United States, have no moral authority to dictate to Guyana on the credibility of elections. In 1997, the Chairman of the Elections Commission secretly swore in Janet Jagan as President even while votes were being veri-
fied and counted! The Marshall of the High Court served Janet Jagan and the Chairman of the Commission with an order to stop the swearing in and Janet Jagan threw it over her shoulder. Where was the US then? And why were they not threatening sanctions? CARICOM and all the other ‘observers’ robed her, and her illegal government, with legitimacy. The PNC followed the legal procedure of an election petition and the election was declared illegal. The United States had the most glaring of elections that lacked credibility. In 2000, the votes in Florida were clearly rigged in George W. Bush’s favour. Vice President Al Gore got the Court to order a recount, and as the recount was going clearly in Gore’s favour, the Supreme Court which was majority Republican, and po-
litically appointed, voted to stop the count and declared Bush the winner. President Granger has acted like the true statesman and honest politician he is. He has said repeatedly that GECOM is an independent body and must be allowed to do its work. He has never interfered with GECOM or the court processes. The laws of Guyana must be respected and upheld, not twisted in favour of those who have their own interests. Imagine the hue and the cry if President Granger intervened and gave directions to GECOM. The constitutional institutions of Guyana must be respected. The other powers and ‘observers’ can go make their countries banana republics...leave Guyana alone! Yours truly, Jerrick Rutherford
Pandemic and Paranoia vs. Fearing, hospitals and clinics where Caring & Sharing they are most needed for DEAR EDITOR, The news has been received — Yes, the coronavirus is here. Fear not. But mass panic is also here Fear. As a health care professional for more than four decades, there is very little to which I have not been exposed in my profession - HIV, whooping cough, tuberculosis, shingles, measles, hepatitis, diphtheria. And with the noteworthy exception of SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), very little has left me feeling vulnerable, overwhelmed or straight-out scared. I am not overly afraid of COVID-19. Instead, I am deeply concerned about the ramifications of a smacking new infectious germ that has
disseminated the world over, and still continues to gain ground and find new footing and strongholds in different soil. I am justifiably concerned for the welfare of the elderly, those in frail health or incapacitated who stand to suffer the most, and also unjustly and inordinately, at the hands of this new scourge. Yet still I fear not. The truth be revealed, what scares me the most is the sudden loss of human reasoning, and the tsunami of fear that has instigated the masses of society into a hypnotic spiral of panic, stockpiling obscene quantities of anything that could adequately fill an air raid shelter in a postapocalyptic world. I am scared of the masks that are being stolen from
frontline health care providers, being worn instead in malls, grocery stores, and even in churches, bolstering even more fear and suspicion of others. I am scared that our hospitals will be overwhelmed with anyone who thinks they “probably don’t have it, but might as well get checked out, because you just never know” and those with cardiac failure, emphysema, pneumonia and stroke will pay the price for overfilled Emergency waiting rooms with only so many doctors and nurses to assess. I am scared that these same epidemic fears will limit trade, harm partnerships in multiple sectors - business and otherwise - and (Continued on page 6)
Saturday March 21, 2020
We have to call on world leaders they are getting less countries are in debt disto act now and money for products like cop- tress). DEAR EDITOR, While millions are facing health and other impacts around the world, the economic impacts could spell disaster for countries in the global south. The cost of borrowing has gone up dramatically,
per and coffee, on which their economies depend. Soon world leaders will discuss how to respond to coronavirus at the spring meeting of the International Monetary Fund (the organization that steps in when
They have the opportunity to protect some of the world’s least well-off countries. But that will only happen if we call on them to act now. Yours, Rooplall Dudhnath
Are Major-General Singh’s comments really intended to be helpful at this time? DEAR EDITOR, Considerable coverage has been given to the “Dogs of War” commentary by the former Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Major-General (retd) Joseph Singh, who claims loyalty to the Constitution and the nation, and not to any political party or group, but nevertheless places President David Granger in command of these dogs, either through weakness, ineptitude, manipulation or Machiavellian design. It could be viewed, unless the General chooses to clarify his intemperate and demeaning remarks, that he views a solitary citizen of Guyana and members of the legal fraternity as dogs, and the resort to adjudication in the courts, by some, as war. I do not recall that the General was similarly agitated when other citizens and lawyers utilized the very legal
process that he demeans today, and he did not challenge the PPP/C Leader or hold him responsible for any actions then, nor for the post-election intimidation of GECOM personnel, public intimidation, abuse, protests, destruction of property and assault on the security forces and school children. What seems to concern the General most appears to be the injunctions before the court, for which there is the insinuation that President Granger is personally responsible, and which, for the moment, has forestalled the risk of rejecting these elections which seems to be the goal of many, including those who insist that they won the elections fairly. If the legal advice by GECOM’s Legal Adviser and the State Counsel are judged to be sound, then it would have been irresponsible and corrupt to proceed with the
CARICOM-Granger-Jagdeo agreement for a total recount and not to declare the final results of the election within the constitutionally-mandated time, and thereby providing legal and technical grounds for voiding these elections. I consider the recent comments by Sir Shridath Ramphal, JFAP, ACDA and others of similar conviction, that our sanity and survival as a nation demand that the CARICOM-supervised total recount of these elections must be undertaken as soon as possible and according to the law, to be helpful at this time. Major-General Singh’s comments, which have, intentionally or unintentionally, dispelled any notion of impartiality, objectivity or respect for the rule of law are not and, I suspect, were not intended to be. Sincerely Oscar Dolphin
I, unlike many Guyanese, am very optimistic about the future of our country DEAR EDITOR, I am sure that they are many Guyanese who are worried about the future of our country; I must admit that I am not one of them. I, conversely, am very optimistic. I know there may be some who may criticize my optimism, but I remain hopeful as I recognize the outpouring and the deep commitment of many of our people, especially the youth, to uphold and protect our democracy. Many Guyanese, from all walks of life and different political persuasions, are turning out and lending their support to guard our people’s will at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) daily. I have seen many on social media too, expressing their consternation and disappoint-
ment. I must admit some friends who I never heard engage in political talk are now making their voices heard. I think this augurs well for our country and our people. It also makes me confident to know that the next generation is most committed to our nation, and this assures the success of our country. I know there are still the misguided few who are swallowing the rhetoric of their socalled leaders, but I know too that the grouping is growing smaller by the day. I know too that you may not be able to convince them all, but I am convinced that our people will succeed and overcome those forces who seek to hinder our Dear Land of Guyana.
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I am fortified in the view that our people will win out and a bright future awaits us all.I continue to urge and to support those brave souls who are growing in number daily to continue to fight, and I assure you the sweet victory will come. Yours faithfully, Liebert Alleyne
Quality and timely leadership DEAR EDITOR, I have to take my hat off in recognition of the President of the United States. When timely and quality leadership were called for most urgently in the face of a ballooning national crisis, he has acted decisively and sweepingly. I wish that the same could be said for us here in this woeful, backward place. Before going further, I admit to not having a high regard for the incumbent US leader, the merits or demerits of which I will not discuss at this point. But notwithstanding my longstanding position as to the efficiency and proper usage (or lack thereof) of the full authority of his high office in the right way and for the right objectives, I must be quick to applaud the actions that he has taken relative to the global pandemic that is coronavirus. The Chief Executive of the US has led from the front and with his customary flair, but with uncustomary skill. After some initial uncertainty and feeling his way, he has settled down and given the grave task at hand the kind of serious attention and immediate (I repeat immediate) action that the situation demanded. Money, laws revisited, and policies put in place have all flowed. Some state governors had already gone ahead with the right words, postures, and follow-up actions. I see this as political leadership casting aside the traditional nastiness of today’s politics and its bitter partisanship, through rising above the challenge of most pressing and alarming circumstances and delivering in a very tight space.They are making the right calls; they are involved; they are genuinely committed. I am looking for, but not seeing the usual playing at poli-
tics, other than for the usual outliers and morons. Switching gears and locales, I regret to share that I do not see the same here, or with the timeliness that our own still limited local situation required. We are too ensnared and embroiled in things elections. It as if almost nothing else matters. One of the questions and concerns that come to me is why are leaders not calling upon their people to stop congregating around courts and ballot boxes? I do know what is involved, but I do not have any care over who has banked everything in outcomes; or who will try to pull a fast one.Those are the things farthest from my mind. I am worried that those same citizens and supporters who assemble before courts and ballot boxes may endanger us when they come down from their elections highs and mix with the regular population. The exposure is exponential and that means involving me and you and our loved ones. Those who wish to commit suicide are welcome to do so amongst their own; but don’t bring COVID-19 into the general population. The issue is how is the latter going to be avoided, when we have what we have through the reckless fanaticisms that rage?From a leadership standpoint (and with possible politics held in abeyance) the president has moved authoritatively. But where are the others? Yes, they have made appearances, but those have been belated and appear to be more about catching up; or saying something soothing for the sake of saying something.I know of two citizens, from church, who have called the hotline, and both have only a sorry tale to tell. The good news is that they were answered at the hotline, but the promised helping
hand, through a follow-up phone call and inquiry is yet to happen. In both of the two instances, each person called since Tuesday; relatives of one called again on Thursday. They are still waiting. And something tells me that they are not the only ones. If this is occurring when we have five confirmed cases, then what if matters become numerically otherwise? On the other hand, I commend those local places and powers that have taken the ball and run with it in their respective places, be such in the private or public sector. They have taken wise and practical precautionary steps. The first order of business was to minimize and calm. I think they got there early. I wish there were more like them. Of course, despite the times and priorities of the hour, I am still astonished that what I have detected at the ministerial and other levels leave much to be desired. Talk aside (or accounted for) there are credibility and reliability issues.May the worse be behind us. Just as elections kicked oil off the news, I did think that coronavirus would have then knocked elections cold and away from the nation’s attention. I am still learning about this place and its peoples and what matters here. Sincerely, GHK Lall
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The kind of “serious consequences” allowed. The government Guyana could face proceeded to confiscate DEAR EDITOR, With regards to your editorial (March 20), news reports and letter commentaries (March 18, 19) with reference to the language used by the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the Secretary unambiguously stated that serious consequences would follow if an illegitimate government were formed from fraudulent election results. I studied and taught US Foreign Policy and International Relations, the subject that analyzes diplomatic language. The Secretary generally speaks for the President. Serious consequences could mean a variety of actions, with the common one being sanctions. Sanctions are generally implemented as a punishment to force cooperation with law or hold free and fair elections. Sanctions were applied on countries that did not hold free and fair elections. Sanctions were and still are applied on Zimbabwe for electoral fraud. Sanctions are usually not unilateral (USA alone) but multilateral (several countries and regional organizations). In the case of Guyana, one would expect that the UK, Canada, Europe, would follow the US lead, since all these countries condemned the fraudulent SOPs count. Going by past precedents and warnings when language of ‘serious consequences’ was uttered by American officials against other countries, it could mean various forms of sanctions against an illegitimate government and individuals associated with it, including those who perpetrated the fraud and their family members (relatives, parents, children, grandchildren,
grand children, etc.), Chairs and CEOs of government agencies, corporations, etc. Police and army officials would not be spared, since they would be viewed as propping up an illegitimate regime. Consequences could also mean military intervention as happened so often in the Caribbean and Americas when elections were fraudulent or people’s rights violated. It will be a real tragedy if the US were to impose serious consequences on Guyana; everyone would be affected. The country cannot bear the consequences - and all of these actions because a few individuals conspired to prevent a real count of SOPs that followed the elections. Sanctions could be political (including diplomatic) and/or economic (no loans and foreign aid). In past US actions, sanctions included banning a country from diplomatic engagements with other countries (states) and from participation in multilateral or regional organizations and agencies (including banking institutions). It included imposition of economic sanctions (on trade, travel) as well as cultural and military restrictions. The proceeds of sales of goods were kept in an escrow, un-accessible to the illegitimate government. All foreign accounts and assets held by the country were frozen; no money could be spent. Remittances (sending money to loved ones) were ordered curtailed, except for humanitarian purposes (for medicine and purchase of food). The country had virtually no foreign exchange. It could not purchase goods on credit; only cash sales were
banks’ foreign currency and those in possession of people in order to purchase goods. Failing that move, purchase of foreign goods was banned to save currency; the country ate only local foods that were in shortage. Consequences meant agreements were suspended on various exchanges and on scholarships. Ongoing scholarships were suspended and students ordered returned to the home country. Sporting contacts were suspended; athletes were not allowed to partake in sports outside of the country; they could not make money from their talent. Sales of military equipment were forbidden. Diplomatic missions were ordered closed; ambassadors expelled or ordered to leave (an extreme measure). Once the US pursues sanction against a state, other countries generally fall in line. In the case of Guyana, Norway has already suspended foreign aid relating to the climate agreement. And if there were US military or regional (OAS) military intervention, the security forces would be crushed. Many innocent lives would be lost – and what for? Because of the actions of a few selfish people!If an illegitimate government is formed, punitive sanctions are coming; they will bite hard. Is this what the government wants? It is best that the government and Gecom do the right thing to correct the mistakes they made relating to the elections count. Allow a fair count and declaration of the winner. Yours truly, Dr. Vishnu Bisram (Specialist International Relations)
Pandemic and Paranoia vs. Fearing... From page 4 ultimately culminate in a global recession. Most of all, I am scared about what message we are conveying to our kids when faced with a threat. Instead of reasoning, rationality, open-mindedness and altruism, we are instead telling them to panic, be fearful, suspicious, reactionary and selfinterested. According to the media, and continuing health reports, COVID-19 is nowhere
Saturday March 21, 2020
Kaieteur News
near over. At some point it will be coming to a city, a hospital, a friend, even a family member near you. Expect it. Stop waiting to be further surprised. A fact to be considered is that the virus itself will not likely do much harm when it arrives. But our own displayed behaviours and the “fight for yourself above all else” attitude could prove catastrophic. I beseech you all - For the
good of all, please temper fear with reason, panic with patience and uncertainty with education. This is a golden opportunity to learn a great deal about health hygiene and how to limit the spread of innumerable transmissible diseases in our society. Let us confront this challenge together in the best spirit of compassion for others, patience, and above all, a steadfast effort to seek truth, facts and knowledge as opposed to conjecture, speculation and catastrophizing. Facts not fear. Clean hands. Open hearts. Our children will thank us for it. Do not forget they are looking on. They will recall a time not so long gone when suddenly the habits of an entire society were turned upside down, and adults were seen behaving like clowns. Yvonne Sam
The Venezuelan lesson is pertinent DEAR EDITOR, We have a front line view of the suffering of the Venezuelan people as a result of selfish policies, the mismanagement of their economy and sanctions imposed by the U.S. Just look around you at the number of Venezuelans in our country. Why are they here? Simply put, people run from bad to better; even a poor country like Guyana is better off than Venezuela at the moment. The illegal actions of the APNU/AFC coalition expose Guyana to sanctions by the U.S., Canada, Britain, the EU and CARICOM. Yes, CARICOM will have to abide by the sanctions imposed by the powerful nations. So from where is Guyana going to derive an income when it is unable to sell its sugar, rice, gold etc. on the international market? Never mind the oil; we will not see a
penny from that. We cannot be that naïve that we don’t see the writing on the wall. What will the illegitimate regime do when it has no money to pay the salaries of the Civil Servants, the Police, the Soldiers and all public employees? What will it promise you then? More importantly, from where will all these Public Sector employees get the money to support their families? When money isn’t circulating within the country, private employers will be forced to lay off their employees too. What will we do then; flee to other countries like the Venezuelans have been forced to do? The power is and has always been in the hands of the people to determine their future. What we do now will determine how we and our children survive. I am not speaking on behalf of any party. Neither the PPP nor the PNC has ever nor will ever have our interest at heart.
All that the upper echelons of these parties ever cared about for the past 60 years are themselves. Haven’t we learnt anything from these past 60 years? Many of us run around spouting, in gallant terms, the names of these parties and politicians. We are stupid if we think they care about us. It is up to all of us to ensure that the rule of law is upheld in this election. Let us think with our minds and not our hearts. We must not allow anyone to steal the voice of the people. But our job does not end there; we must insist that a new constitution be promulgated to replace this absurdity that is the basis of our current crisis. Further, we must insist that those who have perpetrated this crisis be held accountable for their illegal actions and be prosecuted for the traitors that they undoubtedly are. Sincerely yours, Naseer Hussain
Do not disrespect our President! DEAR EDITOR, Here are some of my remarks on the opinion in the open letter sent to the President by former GECOM Chairman, Retired Major-General Joe Singh. When President Granger selected Justice James Patterson as Chairman of GECOM in October 2017 he was asked why former GECOM Chairman, Retired Major-General Joe Singh, was not selected instead. President Granger was quoted as saying, “I am not prepared to discuss the individual qualities of the nominees; taken as a whole the list was unacceptable to me, and that is all I need to say in accordance with the constitution.” I cannot see the nexus between the comment in the open letter which states, “I have forgiven you for classifying me and other nominees for the Chairmanship of GECOM as Not Fit and Proper Persons”, and President’s Granger’s quote above. One person who was fit and proper was chosen from a list of persons who were also fit and proper, I presume. All fit and proper persons on the list could not have been chosen for one position. The President made his choice. The President in his answer did not classify MajorGeneral Singh and other nominees for the Chairmanship of GECOM as ‘Not Fit and Proper Persons’ What seems to be blaring
loudly and uncontrollable might well be an axe to grind. Referring to the statement in the open letter, ‘I respectfully pen this open letter to you via the media in the hope that you will realise the national importance I have attached to taking this step. I am placing my neck on the line that you are being manipulated by persons who do not have the best interests of our beloved Guyana at heart and who are prepared to hold you hostage to their own evil intentions and to manipulate you and the Constitution of this country to achieve their own personal and collective goals, unbothered by the catastrophic impact their actions to date are having on national morale, on the fears and anxieties of all Guyanese, whether or not they are supporters of your political part’. The above statements give the impression of being highly presumptuous. They are surmising, to me, that the President lacks judgment and is weak of char-
acter to allow persons to manipulate him and the Constitution of Guyana which he has taken a solemn oath to uphold. And that the President is reneging and shirking his responsibility to all the peoples of the country. What profound insulting statements on the ability of the President to govern effectively and his honest intention and competence to uphold the Constitution of Guyana. This seems to be based on just conjecture, necessitating an apology to the President. Where is the proof for such accusations on the highest office of the land? To me, the letter is a total national disgrace and a failed attempt to soil the goodwill of and cause an embarrassment to our president, whose tenure in office for just over fourand one-half years has been exemplary, and the achievements of the coalition he leads have been unprecedented. Thomas Saunders
Using the law to break the law DEAR EDITOR, This situation we find ourselves in is not about Bharrat Jagdeo vs. David Granger. It is not about Indian-Guyanese vs. African-Guyanese. It is about the very fabric of democracy being torn apart by rigging of the 2nd March 2020 General Election in Guyana. Those responsible are now trying to use the law to break the law. Yours Faithfully Sean Ori
Kaieteur News
Saturday March 21, 2020
Intensive screening at West Dem. Regional Hospital in wake of coronavirus
I
n light of the C O V I D - 1 9 outbreak, health facilities across the country have adopted some necessary precautionary measures. This publication has been able to see some of these measures in full effect at the West Demerara Regional Hospital [WDRH]. At the health facility, introduced measures include a strict screening process for individuals entering the facility. This exercise sees healthcare professionals greeting all visitors at the hospital's entrance before taking them to a designated area for necessary screening. All visitors are asked to sanitise their hands, before having their temperature taken. This is followed by data collection, which includes the visitor's symptoms of illness and travel information over the last few weeks. After completing this process, the visitor can then proceed to the desired department. Further, private vehicles are prohibited from entering the hospital's compound with the exception of emergency cases and ambulance services. The number of persons entering the facility is also limited to the patient and an accompanying family member where necessary. It is understood that a similar exercise is being conducted at the Leonora Hospital as well. COVID-19 is a disease caused by a respiratory virus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
A health care professional checking a visitor's temperature A c c o r d i n g t o worcesterhealth.org, “this is a new virus that hasn't caused illness in humans before. COVID-19 is spread just like colds or flu through: coughing and sneezing, which creates respiratory droplets; close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands and touching an object or surface with the virus on it.� Symptoms of COVID-19 includes: fever, coughing, shortness of breath and in more severe cases, pneumonia (infection in the lungs); individual risk is dependent on exposure. With the immediate risk of the disease, everyone can do their part to help prevent the spread of the virus, health officials have noted. Given the fact that this is currently a flu and respiratory disease season,
Staff of the WDRH carrying out their duties in the designated screening area in the hospital's compound
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting a flu vaccine; taking everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs, and taking flu antivirals if prescribed. Preventative measure includes: washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser with at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available; avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands; avoid close contact with people who are sick; stay home while you are sick; avoid close contact with others; cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and clean and disinfect objects and surfaces as often as possible.
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A child being examined by a healthcare professional
Saturday March 21, 2020
Kaieteur News
PAGE 08
Stalled electoral process, security threats, coronavirus cause Carter Center, EU observers to withdraw from Guyana
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wo electoral o b s e r v e r missions have withdrawn from Guyana, citing concerns about developments here. The European Union Observer Mission put out a brief statement yesterday notifying of its decision to repatriate back to Europe due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Carter Center also cited the Coronavirus pandemic and the consequent increasing restrictions on international travel. Guyana has thus far recorded five cases of coronavirus, and a recent report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) notes that Guyana is one of the least prepared countries in the Western hemisphere in
its healthcare response mechanisms. Unlike the EU, the Carter Center raised other concerns. It said that the security environment in Georgetown has declined following the non-transparent tabulation process in Region Four. After the international observers made strong statements in support of a credible process, the Carter Center said that international observers have been harassed, and that protestors supportive of A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) have blocked them at times from executing their mandate. “Specific threats have also been made against the international community that are unacceptable and
further undermine the credibility of the electoral process, the Carter Center said. Furthermore, the Carter Center has noted that there is currently no electoral process in force to observe. The recount, as had been advocated for by David Granger and Bharrat Jagdeo, has been obstructed by a series of interim injunctions. The Carter Center said it hopes that any remaining legal issues hindering the recount can be addressed quickly to avoid further delaying a satisfactory resolution to the electoral process. The Center noted that while the elections were well conducted, the tabulation of the Region Four results has obstructed GECOM's production of
credible results. In the instances leading to both declarations made by Region Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo, the Carter Center said that there were issues that called the credibility of the results in question. With this being said, it
holds that there can still be a conclusion of the electoral process with credible results. The Center hopes that the recount, for instance, could be facilitated. It thanked GECOM Chair, Justice Claudette Singh for her personal commitment to achieving a credible process,
and assured that it is on standby to return if it is needed. Additionally, the Center posited that Guyana's winner-take-all system is in need of reform, and encouraged all parties to commit to reconciliation and key constitutional reforms.
Flawed elections results could damage Guyana's int'l standing - US State Dept.
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he US State Department has come forward with another statement warning Guyana of the consequences that would follow if it announces official elections results based on a flawed tabulation. Again, the message is coming from Acting Assistant Secretary for U.S. Department of State's B u r e a u o f We s t e r n Hemisphere Affairs, Michael Kozak. In a tweet posted yesterday, Kozak said that GECOM has the responsibility to ensure that all votes in Guyana's 2020 General and Regional elections are counted.
Acting Assistant Secretary for U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, Michael Kozak
He continued, “Any announced result that does not reflect a credible vote count and the will of the Guyanese people will damage the Guyanese government's standing in the international community.” Kozak has before made similar statements warning Guyana that the legitimacy of the Guyana government is paramount to its wellbeing. A strong statement also came from US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that the individuals who seek to benefit from electoral fraud and form illegitimate governments/regimes will be subject to a variety of serious consequences from the United States.
Limited journalists, lawyers, spectators allowed to enter high court COVID-19 safety precautions…
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imited media personnel, lawyers and representatives of the varying political parties and spectators were allowed entry into the Georgetown High Court yesterday where the hearing into an injunction for the national recount of March 2, 2020 ballots was held. The COVID-19 disease was cited as the underlying reason for this decision. The matter was fixed for 9:00am before Justice Franklyn Holder presiding over the matter. When reporters arrived at the High Court with the intention of providing
coverage, they were informed that only reporters from the state owned National Communications Network (NCN) and the Guyana Chronicle, along with Stabroek News would be allowed to enter. The court marshals and police ranks stationed at the court's entrance then relayed to the other media houses that they were working with instructions from the judge. Reporters from the Kaieteur News, Guyana Times, TVG, News Source, Demerara Waves, MTV Channel 65 were not allowed to enter the court. Even reporters from the
Department of Public Information were not allowed entry. Instead, the reporters were forced to stand outside of the court, seeking comments from lawyers and party representatives who exited the High Court. But even this proved a difficult task as Kaieteur News understands that only two lawyers were allowed to enter the court. Other party representatives were forced to wait outside. Unlike other court hearings of national interest, no alternative provisions were put in place by the court to publicise the court hearing.
BOG asks banks to: reduce... From page 3 telephone. According to Dr. Ganga, the BoG as the supervisory authority will take a number of measures to help the affected sectors. These include allowing banks to renegotiate credit facilities; granting a threemonth moratorium to classify affected accounts as non-performing, ensure the foreign markets continue to function to satisfy legitimate needs. According to Dr. Ganga, cambios should also take note of the measures and take steps
to ensure that the fallouts are minimal. Guyana has closed it two airports for two weeks barring international flights. The measures to fight the virus, which is sweeping the world, have seen countries closing their borders. In Guyana, shopping has been affected with malls, bars and other entertainment centers reporting a sharp drop in Guyana. It is likely companies will be asking workers to take a pay cut as Guyana attempts to deal with one of the worst crises ever.
Kaieteur News
Saturday March 21, 2020
PAGE 09
Domestic pressure is also important I
nternational isolation must be backed by domestic pressure if the country's ongoing and protracted political crisis is to be resolved. So far, there has been more of the former than the latter. It was the international community that struck the first blow for electoral t r a n s p a r e n c y. T h e governments of the United States, the United Kingdom, India, Norway, St. Vincent and Canada along with the European Union have joined with the Caribbean Community, the Commonwealth, the Organization of American States and the Carter Center in expressing concern over the transparency of the election results. A number of international nongovernmental organisations have chipped in with their concerns over the process. Local associations and individuals have been adding their voices. These have included the Private Sector Commission and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the African Cultural Development Association, which supports a recount of all the ballots. Transparency International has urged the Guyana Elections Commission to verify the results of the elections before making a declaration. Personal public statements have been made by former army top-man Joseph Singh, Sir Shridath
Ramphal and Supriya SinghBodden, a national awardee who has offered to return her national medal. Former Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin, an AFC leader, has said that he is not sufficiently convinced about the Region 4 declaration. Eusi Kwayana and Moses Bhagwan, considered as political elders of the Working People's Alliance, a member of the governing Coalition, have called for power sharing but have stayed short of demanding a recount. Sadly, the voices of our young people have been muted, except for a refreshing letter written to another section of the media by a seventeen year old. In his impassioned letter, the young man called on Guyanese to speak up now. Electoral democracy and freedom, he said, are at stake. Silence, he noted, is not an option. The young man – a future leader in the making – called for a crescendo of voices “from the shores of the Atlantic to the mountain ranges of the Pakaraimas”. He is likely to be disappointed. Where are the voices of the country's young people? If they truly represent the hope for tomorrow, why are they keeping silent? There is striking imbalance in diversity of those who have been calling for greater electoral transparency. This does not
bode well for the country's future. It suggests that either persons are afraid, could not care less, do not feel that their voices matter or have no compunction in condoning electoral irregularity. In the meantime, suspicions are being aroused. Reports of the police demanding that Giftland security cameras not focus in the direction of the International Convention Center and the early afternoon unannounced movement of the containers containing the ballot boxes are developments that intensified fears about the integrity of the ballot boxes being compromised. It is precisely because of such fears that more Guyanese need to speak out about what is happening. Unless greater domestic pressure is brought to bear on GECOM and the government, international isolation, so necessary to ensure a swift resolution to the country's political crisis, will not be forthcoming immediately. In fact, there is a misguided view within elements of the ruling clique that US interests in Guyana can forestall any sanctions. They are mistaken. The question is not if sanctions will come but when. There is no way in which the international community will allow a transition to government based on discredited declarations. There is no way also in
Dem boys seh...
Guyana fighting a war without ammunition
D
e m b o y s worried. Dem boys wives happy though. Nuff men now staying home. Some of dem wife does barely see dem when de day done. Now de wives praying dat de day done quick quick because dem ah see too much now. Is all because of de corona virus dat dem husbands deh home so much. Some of dem desperate to take a drink. But dem know dat is not only wife watching dem. De Man above watching everything. De Creator watching everything. He is
in control. De coronavirus is a wake-up call to de world. Things going too fast. A lot of people who never pray start tuh pray; dem who din know tuh pray learn quick quick, and dem who like pray, praying even more. People praying like it going out ah style. De Creator watching everything. He telling we dat we have to change. We gat tuh protect de protectors. If you don't protect de firemen, who gon out de fire. It gat all dem wicked politicians praying. Is time deh turn tuh God and stop de thiefing.
Guyana at war with de coronavirus. De only thing is dat we fighting a war without ammunition. Dem boys seh de government give itself draconian powers to fight de virus but while it gat de legal power, it ain't got sufficient beds, ventilators or facemasks tuh fight any major outbreak. Dat is why dem boys praying and saying thanks at de same time. Thank you Lord for this wake-up call! Thank you for waking up we leaders. Thank you for waking up the world on the need to help each other more!
which the APNU+AFC can resist international pressure. When the heat is turned up, their leaders will be the first to go on the defensive. Their loyal supporters are going to be left holding the wrong end of the stick. Domestic pressure on the regime and GECOM must be kept up. This, however, must always take peaceful forms. The PPPC has already said that it will not recognise a new APNU+AFC government. This effectively means they will not be taking
up seats on the Opposition benches. But there are other forms of lawful pressure which can be applied, the most important of which is to speak out, including through the written word. Decent Guyanese, who have been taught by their parents that honesty is the best policy, must continue to raise their voices and pen their thoughts in the same way as that 17-year-old boy did yesterday. To quote him, “Silence is not an option.”
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Kaieteur News
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Saturday March 21, 2020
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
The key to understanding why the ballot boxes were removed Anyone with a modicum of comprehension had to reject the police request to Giftland to move its surveillance cameras from pointing in the direction of the Arthur Chung Convention Centre and the Giftland
access road. It made absolutely no sense, since the cameras provided security to all stakeholders involved in the protection of the ballot boxes housed in large containers. Of course, I don't think the
police would have made that request on their own, since obviously it was in relation to the ballot boxes. My thinking is that the edict came from GECOM, and certainly not from a statutory meeting of the commission, since there
was no announcement of that. Shadowy figures keep lurking behind the coattail of GECOM. Who was afraid of the cameras on the boxes? My guess is that persons who had an interest in tampering with the ballots. We have gone through too much of comical and barefaced tampering with the statements of polls to shut out that idea. This is my guess, and I cannot think of further speculation, because none is coming to mind. Yesterday the containers were removed and taken back to GECOM head office. No one from the ten opposition parties and the local and international observers were notified. In fact, a panic situation emerged, because persons keeping an eye on the items, hurried on their phones to inform opposition o ff i c i a l s a n d a q u i c k entourage was formed to follow the trucks. What is going to happen now? This is my thinking. We are coming to the end of the election saga. Here is what I opine will happen in the next few days. GECOM will invite stakeholders to witness the recounting of Region 4 ballots only. The recount will add to the tally of the nine declared regions and point to a statistical victory for APNU+AFC, who will secure a one-seat majority. The form of the tampering, I am not willing to write on, though I have my thoughts on the shape of it. GECOM will make the declaration and APNU's presidential candidate will be sworn in. It will not change the world's attitude to the
elections, but it is the logical decision for the conspirators. One must at all times remember that in philosophy, an action can be inherently wrong, but practically logical. It made no sense dragging on the election nightmare. Each night it became ironically more dangerous and more facetious. Certain decision-makers decided it was pointless keeping the rigging train driving to nowhere. The thinking by the conspirators was to form the government, face sanctions, and then let the negotiations begin. The above is my prediction. I have based it on two forms of thought. First, it was senseless to ask Giftland to adjust its cameras. That decision gave it away. From the time the police made that demand, the thinking was obvious – we don't want evidence of tampering to be available. Secondly, moving the process to Kingston provides for less scrutiny. One has to remember that those containers were removed after noon on Friday, hours after the Carter Centre observer team announced it was pointless to stay. What will be the response of GECOM and APNU+AFC to the cries that the boxes were tampered with? This is how I believe it will go. GECOM will say that the impasse could not have continued much longer. The centre of contention was Region 4 votes, so it made no sense returning to the nine counts for the other regions. It is obvious that losers will
Frederick Kissoon always say that they didn't lose. I am willing to bet a friendly package, Guyana will see this scenario played out in the coming days. It was the only road left. Panic set in when Granger agreed to a CARICOM supervision of the recount. This writer is explicitly saying: a transparent account the conspirators cannot afford and will not allow. I repeat what I have written several times in these analyses, and on Kaieteur Radio - the leaders in APNU+AFC will not concede a change of government, but will concede to far-reaching constitutional changes which they prefer to agree to while in government. In the coming days, Guyanese will have lesser headaches, but will still be sad because a majority of the nation and a majority of democratic countries in the world will not accept the results. But life will be back without the harassment of drowning uncertainties. Where we go from here, I predict will be a good one, in that Guyana has reached the end of winner-take-all government. The country may never recover from this horror show, but one-party dominance is over. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
Saturday March 21, 2020
Kaieteur News
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Saturday March 21, 2020
Kaieteur News
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House jumper gets nine months jail time
President says GECOM must be allowed to act - Tucville, Sophia men deny receiving stolen items without interference
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hree men were y e s t e r d a y arraigned before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts. One of the defendants was charged for breaking into a woman's home and carting off with items valued $130,000, and $40,000 cash. The other two defendants were charged for receiving the stolen items. Twenty-four -year-old Ceon Singh, a vendor of 158 Enterprise Garden, East Coast Demerara, pleaded guilty to the charge which stated that on March 10, 2020, at 512 North East La Penitence, Georgetown, he broke and entered the dwelling house of Tenisha Edwards and stole an iPhone 7, one LG phone, one Amazon tablet valued $15,000, a handbag valued $5000 and $40,000, cash. In Singh's explanation to the court, he said that he was frustrated so he decided to break into the woman's home and steal the items. The court heard that after Singh was arrested, he admitted to the offence and gave the police information where the items were and they were recovered.
Charged: Osmond Wayne
Jailed: Ceon Singh (front) and James Rodney According to the facts of the charge, on the day in question about 01:15 hrs, the woman secured her home and went to bed. Around 05:45 hrs, she heard a loud noise and upon checking, she discovered the articles mentioned in the charge were missing. The matter was then reported and an investigation was launched. Singh was later arrested and subsequently charged for the offence. After listening to the facts of the charge, Senior Magistrate Daly sentenced the defendant to nine months
imprisonment. Meanwhile, James Rodney, 44, a businessman of Sophia, Georgetown, denied the charge which stated that between March 17, 2020, and March 18, 2020, at Georgetown, he
received one LG phone, valued $40,000 property of Edwards, which was unlawfully obtained by Singh. And Osmond Wayne, 36, a v e n d o r o f Tu c v i l l e Georgetown, also denied the charge which stated that on March 18, 2020, at Stabroek Market Georgetown, he received one iPhone 7 valued $70,000, and a Amazon tablet valued $15,000, also property of Edwards which was unlawfully obtained by Singh. Senior Magistrate Daly granted Wayne and Rodney bail in the sum of $35,000 each and ordered them to report to the Brickdam Police Station every Monday at 09:00 hours until the completion of the matters. Both matters were adjourned to May 15, 2020.
P
resident David Granger made a call yesterday for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to be allowed the freedom and independence to execute its mandate of providing free, fair and credible elections. Granger, who is presidential candidate for A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), noted that it has been nearly three weeks since Election Day has passed without the completion of the electoral process. He had, along with People's Progressive Party (PPP/C) leader, Bharrat Jagdeo invited CARICOM to supervise a total recount of the votes, but that was obstructed by a court action. The President said that he is disappointed by this development. Moving forward, he asked that persons
respect the Court and await the ruling. Meanwhile, he is calling on members of the public to respect GECOM's role, and not to level attacks on the Chairperson and Commissioners. “The Elections Commission has the sole authority for the conduct of General and Regional elections and must be allowed to function independently of political interference, instruction and influence.” Granger said that he has always been committed to respecting the Constitution, and that it is imperative that GECOM's integrity is respected. “Elections are as much about the totality of votes as about the quality of relations among citizens. I urge all Guyanese, therefore, to respect each other as we work together to build a cohesive nation.”
COVID-19 precautionary measure…
GPL public hearings to be live streamed - PUC
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n October 4, 2010 the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) licence was amended to facilitate an annual review by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) of the company's Operating Standards and Performance Targets (OSPT). According to the PUC, it is mandated that these targets and standards be included in GPL's Development and Expansion Programmes which must be submitted to the subject minister for approval. “This annual review by the PUC takes the form of a public hearing, and as it is expressly provided in the licence, that review process
PUC Chair, Dela Britton
must be conducted by the 30th day of March of every year. During that exercise, the Commission is required to compare the stipulated standards and targets against that which GPL has achieved in order to determine whether GPL has failed to meet those standards and targets in any material respect.” The Commission is mandated to issue its order by the 30th day of April, 2020. According to the PUC, on Wednesday, 25th March 2020, at 13:30 hrs, it will be conducting the 2019 review of GPL's OSPT in the Woodbine Room of the Cara Hotel, Quamina Street, Georgetown.
However, this time the hearings will be different. “In light of the recent outbreak of the COVID-19, and as a precautionary measure, the commission is encouraging the public to join these proceedings via our live stream on Facebook a t https://www.facebook.com/ pucguyana/.” PUC urged
persons with preliminary questions/comments to email the Chairperson, Dela B r i t t o n a t dbritton@pucguyana.com and/or the Secretary to the C o m m i s s i o n , Vi d i a h a r P e r s a u d a t vpersaud@pucguyana.com. Particulars of the standards and targets may be accessed at www.puc.org.gy
Kaieteur News
Saturday March 21, 2020
PAGE 13
Region Four results…
I don't buy Mingo's numbers; who vex, vex! - Dominic Gaskin By Shikema Dey
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ormer Business Minister and Director of Business, Dominic Gaskin, has publicly stated that he does not “buy” the numbers used by District Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo, in his recent declaration and called for a full investigation into the wrongdoings at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). In a statement posted on his Facebook page last evening, Gaskin expressed his displeasure that it has been 18 days since Guyana went to the March 2, 2020 polls to cast their ballots and no declaration has been made. This, he said, was a “relatively simple exercise” for Guyanese to “elect a government of their choice.” According to him, the declaration made by Mingo on Thursday, 5th March for District Four, the largest district, was immediately rejected based on the procedural grounds and the fact that it lacked transparency. To this, Gaskin said, “I too have taken a position
- Investigate wrongdoings at GECOM Dominic Gaskin
(personal) on the Mingo Declaration – I don't buy his numbers. Who vex, vex! I am not attempting to convince anyone that my position is the right one. I've gone beyond that.” The Former Business Minister stressed that the post-elections conduct “has not been exemplary”, with little concern for the youths who are closely paying attention. Gaskin highlighted too that there has been a lost in confidence of GECOM. He said, “regardless of who is wrong or right or good or bad, GECOM cannot purport to hold credible elections in the future unless
Guyana among countries least prepared to tackle coronavirus - IMF
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ccording to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Guyana has been ranked as one of the least prepared countries in the western hemisphere to tackle the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). In a document released to the press yesterday, the IMF by way of a diagram showed those countries with medical sectors prepared to tackle the virus. Ranking the highest, and in the green zone, were Canada and the USA. Guyana, Nicaragua in Central America and Haiti and the Caribbean were listed as the countries least prepared to tackle COVID19. Thus far, the disease has claimed the lives of over 8,000 and with over 200,000 confirmed cases globally. According to the IMF,
“ethnic tensions.” According to him, “all that has been said, implied and displayed since 2nd March has severely damaged the fragile but admirable coexistence of our two major ethnic groups.” He went on to suggest that Guyana needs a new “model of governance”, one which does not “incite this level of divisiveness every
South America will face lower export revenues, both from the drop in commodity prices and reduction in export volumes, especially to China, Europe and the United States, which are important trade partners. The sharp decline in oil prices will hit the oil exporters especially. IMF added too that the tightening of financial c o n d i t i o n s w i l l a ff e c t negatively the large and financially integrated economies and those with underlying vulnerabilities. Containment measures in several countries will reduce economic activities in service and manufacturing sectors for at least the next quarter, with a rebound once the epidemic is contained. In Central America and Mexico, the IMF states that a (continued on page 17)
it can satisfactorily address the major concerns that have been raised about its declared results and the postelection processes leading to those declarations.” Further, he opined that the APNU+AFC will be unable to win another election in the near future stating that “whether through public perception or bias, this is a very likely consequence of what has taken place and doesn't bode well for our future.” Gaskin also made mention of the damage to society caused by heighten
five years.” “The real big men and women have to start talking to each other, or stop pretending to be leaders. Various other stakeholders need to set aside their emotions and adopt a more conciliatory posture which puts the nation first,” he said. In conclusion, Gaskin stated that all voters deserve to know the true result of the
process in which they “innocently and dutifully participated.” A full-fledged investigation into GECOM, he added, is needed to ascertain whether there was any wrongdoing on the part of individuals within the elections body as it relates to the integrity of statements of poll or the tabulation of results thereof.
PAGE 14
Saturday March 21, 2020
Kaieteur News
Local business commits Forests and biodiversity are to COVID-19 fight too precious to lose - distributes hygienic products to less fortunate
- Regional Forestry Officer A pristine forest
Staff of Gandhi's Variety Store distributing bread to members of the public
L
ocal business Gandhi Variety Store has pledged its support to the fight against the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). The store, which is located at Stabroek Square, has made public its prices for all hygienic products including soaps, rubbing alcohol, sanitizers, etc, and has committed to keeping prices low to ensure that all citizens can afford these necessary items to help prevent the disease. Yesterday, the business distributed its last 100 bottles of rubbing alcohol to less fortunate individuals. Staffers of the store also conducted an educational session with these individuals on the proper use of the rubbing alcohol and other hygienic products such as sanitizers, soap (correct way to wash hands), among others. They also distributed bags of bread to all the beneficiaries. Proprietor, Seeon Satrohan told this publication that this is not an attempt to boost sales or an opportunity for publicity. Instead, he said, it is simply the business playing its part in helping to fight the virus. He added that it is the store's social responsibility to extend a helping hand to the citizens of the country who support the (continued on page 17)
Gandhi's Variety Store proprietor, Seeon Satrohan, demonstrating the use of rubbing alcohol to an individual during a sensitisation session
“In a time where we are faced with the Coronavirus, it is hard to think of anything else other than the virus. Things that we have taken for granted are now no longer or less available and we are beginning to realise the true value of these necessities now that they are gone,” said Claus Eckelmann. Eckelmann is the Regional Forestry Officer at the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations [FAO]. According to him, the International Day of Forests recognised annually on March 21, is about realising the value of our forests before they are gone. The word “Forest” comes from the Latin word “out there” meaning outside from where we live and work. In the Caribbean, we would refer to this as “bush”, something which is 'out there' but seldom considered useful. However, in the Caribbean, forests play a much more significant role than just something, which is
'out there', Eckelmann noted. But for the FAO, he said that forests are recognised as major contributors to food security and sustainable food production in the Caribbean. Thus, in recognising the International Day of Forests, FAO is encouraging people to not forget some crucial facts. Among these he said are: “our Islands are surrounded by saltwater, we therefore know how precious freshwater is. The best water is collected from in and around forests; the islands in the Caribbean are densely populated, the forest in the coastal areas were converted into agricultural land, leaving forests only on top of the mountains, in gullies and ravines. In the areas where no one wanted to work, the terrestrial biodiversity of our islands survived. Plant and animal species that were believed to be lost survived “OUT THERE” are now coming back. The gullies harbour the biodiversity, which is now needed to restore abandoned agricultural fields; a forest cover on steep hills holds the soil and reduces the risk of flash floods; well-managed forests can be the source of sustained income: forest not only provide timber for
construction and fuel wood to cook, they are a habitat for bees to produce honey and a source of food; more than 80 percent of the terrestrial biodiversity on our islands is found in the forest. Diverse genetic resources are crucial to the development of new medicines and synthetic materials. To preserve these genetic resources, we must preserve the forest; the biodiversity we have on our islands developed into a selfbalanced ecosystem, thus, importing alien species may destroy this equilibrium. We must therefore, carefully consider the risk when importing new plant or animal species.” Moreover, Eckelmann said that everyone has a role to play in the protection of our forests. “Think twice before you cut a tree in your yard, instead plant a new one, trees offer fruit and help keep our surroundings cool, it attracts butterflies and birds. An older tree gathers many species and by itself forms a biotope,” he said. And if in doubt, Eckelmann quipped, “just remember the slogan of this year's International Day of Forests: Forest and Trees are too precious to lose!”
Kaieteur News
Saturday March 21, 2020
PAGE 15
FITUG urges Guyanese to embrace measures to - expresses anxiety over “sweeping stop spread of COVID-19 powers” of presidential order
T
he presidential order issued to combat the novel coronavirus, has been described as “a dangerous precedent” by the Federation of Independence Trade Unions of Guyana [FITUG]. The order, it pointed out, apart from wide discretions, has essentially given those empowered to write themselves blank cheques and spend without any
oversight. “This…may not augur well for accountability and transparency,” the FITUG noted with concern adding that “We also recognised [that] it was recently disclosed that a request has been made for US$5M support from the World Bank. Incidentally, this request comes when certain members of the 'Administration' are
expressing negative thoughts about the views about the international community. But that aside, we hasten to ask: Why must we approach the World Bank? Isn't our Treasury in a healthy enough position to afford this expenditure? This, we see, could be a telltale ominous sign, time will tell though,” the FITUG noted. The arrival of the novel
GWI takes all precautions to prevent spread of COVID-19
T
he Guyana Water Incorporated ( G W I ) i s currently making every effort to ensure that each Region has adequate water supplies as the company works to prevent the spread of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Speaking at a press conference held at the company's Vlissengen Road, Georgetown head office, its Managing Director, Dr. Richard Van West-Charles, said that “water is a critical part of public health precautions for the prevention of COVID-19.” He added that GWI has sought to ensure that the
Dr. Richard Van West Charles production of water across the country is adequate to
allow public health practices such as hand washing. To this end, all of the Corporation's Directors have been dispatched to the country's 10 administrative regions to ensure the smooth flow of business and to ensure that adequate staff is present at each location. The Director explained that in-house, all of the GWI's offices have been equipped with the necessary sanitary items such as disinfectant, sanitizers, etc. Additionally, sinks are being installed at all of the GWI's offices and the company's staffers are being given the opportunity to (continued on page 17)
Coronavirus [COVID-19] has only served to heighten the anxieties amongst the Guyanese people, FITUG has observed. According to the union body, “Our citizens' anxiousness was already high following the undoubted attempts to undermine democracy. With several confirmed cases now in our country, the 'Government', in our view, belatedly sprang into action. The IMF, from data at its hand, concluded that our country was among the least prepared in our hemisphere,” the FITUG outlined in a statement. It further added, “Rather than seeking to catch up, an Executive Order was foisted on our people. That order has only, in our view, served to raise the already high temperature even higher given the sweeping powers it has placed in the hands of the 'Authorities'. While, the FITUG believes that all and every practical step should be taken, it added, “we fail to see how what the Government has approved
itself to pursue can really be helpful. In fact, it is our considered view that it could force Guyanese who may contract the virus, to become afraid to disclose their status given the wide-ranging and vast powers that the authorities now possess.” According to the FITUG too, “while the officialdom has sought to downplay concerns, we believe, at the same time the extreme measures [are] completely unnecessary at this time. Of course, it did not miss us that the extremities approved could be used as a pretext to further the nefarious activities regarding our votes. Given what has transpired over the last few days, it is hard to discount any possibility now-a-days.” Another concern, the Federation has is with regards to the effect on employment. Already, one business has indicated that it will have to send employees home for some period, the FITUG noted. It went on to add that the economic slowdown could linger for some time, yet it
appears, that there is no attention being paid on this front. “In other nations, we have seen pro-active public policies to alleviate such stresses on peoples and enterprises. This appears to be absent from our response though it is very much an important, and we daresay critical, element.” For the FITUG, “our concerns rest foremost with the well-being of the Guyanese people, and indeed all peoples of the world. We urge everyone to heed the advice of the experts and to embrace all measures which will mitigate and staunch the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.” “We are heartened by the news that some headway has been made to find appropriate treatments. We were also pleased to learn that one of the identified treatments can be manufactured locally and we urge that this be fast tracked in the interest of the health of our people. We, at this time, encourage all Guyanese to remain safe,” the FITUG said.
PAGE 16
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LEGAL NOTICE 2
authorized agent or Attorneyat-Law at the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), an Answer and/ or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 28 (twenty-eight) days from the date of the Second and final publication of this Notice. TAKE NOTICE that the divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Tuesday the 28th day April , 2020 at 9:15am before the Honourable Madam Justice Damone Younge in the Directions Hearing Room of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown. IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/ Notice of Intention to Defend Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce. The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts (Georgetown, Demerara). The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed. Dated the 10th day of March, 2020
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2020-HC-DEM-CIV-FD-85 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MAT R I M O N I A L JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION PETITION NO. FD-85 BETWEEN:(HUGHES) MONESA DONNETA nee LEWIS Petitioner –and- Petitioner (HUGHES) GARY FITZGERALD Respondent
TAKE NOTICE that the divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Tuesday the 28th day of April, 2020 at 9:00am before the Honourable Madam Justice Damone Younge in the Directions Hearing Room of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown. IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/ Notice of Intention to Defend Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce. The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts (Georgetown, Demerara). The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed. Dated the 27th day of February,2020
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Saturday March 21, 2020
Kaieteur News
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TAKE NOTICE that on the 23rd day of January, 2020 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by MONESA DONNETA HUGHES nee LEWIS the Petitioner in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 26th day of February, 2020 the Petitioner was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) Consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur News Newspapers, a daily Newspaper printed, published and circulated in and around Guyana. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorneyat-Law at the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), an Answer and/ or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 28 (twenty-eight) days from the date of the second and final publication of this Notice.
2020-HC-DEM-CIV-FD-95 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION PETITION NO. FD-95 BETWEEN:(MOHAMED) SELOCHANIE nee INDERDEO Petitioner -and- (MOHAMED)AAZAM Respondent TO: MONHENDERNAUTH SWAMBER (Last Known Address) Lot 113 New Road Vreed en Hoop, West Coast Demerara, Guyana TAKE NOTICE that on the 23rd day of January, 2020 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by SELOCHANIE MOHAMED nee INDERDEO the Petitioner in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 3rd day of March, 2020 the Petitioner was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) Consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur News Newspapers, a daily Newspaper printed, published and circulated in and around Guyana and on the Worldwide Web (Online). AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly
LEGAL NOTICE 3 2019-HC-DEM-CIV-FD1478 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION PETITION NO. FD-1478 BETWEEN:(ROSS) EULA EMELDA nee LANFERMAN Petitioner -and- (ROSS) JAMES GEORGE Respondent TO: MOHENDARNAUTH SWAMBER (Last Known Address) 121 Riverglen Close, Calgary Alberta, T2C3W3 Canada TAKE NOTICE that on the 6th day of December, Continued on the next page
Saturday March 21, 2020 LEGAL NOTICE 3 2019 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by EULA EMELDA ROSS nee LANFERMAN the Petitioner in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 6th day of March, 2020 the Petitioner was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) Consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur News Newspapers, a daily Newspaper printed, published and circulated in and around Guyana and on the Worldwide Web (Online). AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorneyat-Law at the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), an Answer and/ or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 28 (twenty-eight) days from the date of the Second and final publication of this Notice. TAKE NOTICE that the divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Friday the 29th day May , 2020 at 9:30 am before the Honourable Madam Justice Damone Younge in the Directions Hearing Room of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown. IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/ Notice of Intention to Defend Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce. Dated the 11th day of March, 2020
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Kaieteur News
Coronavirus kills one every 10 minutes in Iran, Health Ministry says [FOX NEWS] - Iran’s health ministry said Thursday that a person is dying of coronavirus every ten minutes as caseloads continue to rise and hospitals reach a breaking point. After weeks of skewed numbers and accusations of downplaying or covering up the coronavirus prevalence in Iran, the Tehran government is finally voicing the horrifying extent of the problem in its borders. “Based on our information, every ten minutes one person dies from the coronavirus and some 50 people become infected with the virus every hour in Iran,” Kianush Jahanpur, the spokesperson for Iran’s health ministry, tweeted. In the last 24-hour period alone, officials have acknowledged that around 150 Iranians have died. As of Friday morning, Tehran had documented almost 11,500 active cases and registers that all are a “mild” or “non-critical” condition, despite the ascending deaths. The embattled nation’s official death toll this week soared past 1,000, making it the third-highest globally be-
hind Italy and China, where the disease started. However, political opposition groups highlight that the statistics inside the Islamic Republic are even gloomier – indicating that upwards of 7,000 individuals have succumbed to the contagion. For the first time, authorities are admitting that the scale of the spread is much greater than they previously voiced. “The death toll may be higher, and the test results for (the victims) could have been wrong,” Ali Rabiei, a representative for President Hassan Rouhani said. “Some have died and we might not have known it was due to Coronavirus. There may be some shortcomings in the figures, and sometimes you may see a jump in our announcement.”
GWI takes all precautions... From page 15 work from home where applicable. Staff with young children are also given time off to ensure that their children are well taken care of during this health crisis. Special efforts are also being made to ensure that all four quarantine centres set up by the Ministry of Public Health are supplied with the sufficient water supply. Dr. Van West-Charles is also pleading with the public to make timely payments on their water bills to assist the company in effectively carry-
ing out its mandate. GWI is also catering for individuals who are practicing social distancing by offering E-Billing services, online support such as live chat support on its website www.gwi.gy and WhatsApp messaging via telephone number 620-1667. Customers can also download the Customer Service App which allows them to make reports, pay bills, etc, online. GWI is also conducting public sensitisation through educational posters.
Local business commits to ... From page 14 business year round. Satrohan has also been using social media to post tutorials on homemade/cost effective hand sanitizers, disinfecting wipes, among others. In one of his videos, he
explained that with the rising prices of these products, one can simply purchase a pack of baby wipes and fill the container with rubbing alcohol and use that as disinfecting wipes for both personal use and to clean surfaces.
People wearing face masks exercise on the shore of an artificial lake, in Western Tehran, Iran, Sunday, March 15, 2020. Many people in Tehran shrugged off warnings over the new coronavirus as authorities complained that most people in the capital are not treating the crisis seriously enough. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms. For some it can cause more severe illness. (AP)
Guyana among countries least prepared to.... From page 13 slowdown in the United States will lead to a reduction in trade, foreign direct investment, tourism flows, and remittances. Key agricultural exports (coffee, sugar, and banana) as well as trade flows through the Panama Canal could also be adversely affected by lower global demand. Local outbreaks will strain economic activity in the next quarter and aggravate already uncertain business conditions, especially in Mexico, the IMF outlined. In the Caribbean, lower tourism demand due to travel
restrictions and “the fear factor”—even after the outbreak recedes—will weigh heavily on economic activity, it added. Commodity exporters will also be strongly impacted and a reduction in remittances is likely to add to the economic strain. The IMF was keen to note too that the resulting increase in borrowing costs will expose financial vulnerabilities that have accumulated over years of low interest rates. While the sharp fall in the oil price is expected to benefit the oil importing countries in the region, it will dampen investment and economic activity in
countries that are heavily dependent on oil exports. In the event of a local outbreak, service sector activity will likely be hit the hardest as a result of containment efforts and social distancing, with sectors such as tourism and hospitality, and transportation particularly affected. M o r e o v e r, c o u n t r i e s with weak public health infrastructures and limited fiscal space to ramp up public health services and support affected sectors and households would come under significant pressure, the IMF says.
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Saturday March 21, 2020
Kaieteur News
Court allows political parties to join elections recount proceedings The Court is still in the preliminary stages of hearing application by A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC)aligned Ulita Moore to block the national recount of the ballots cast on March 2, 2020. So far, an interim injunction has been granted to put the recount process on hold. During a private hearing of the matter yesterday, Justice Franklyn Holder approved applications by the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP), A New and United Guyana (ANUG) and The New Movement (TNM) to be joined as parties to the proceedings. Their application was presented by Attorneys –at –law, Timothy Jonas and Senior Counsel Ralph Ramkarran. Jonas spoke with reporters following the closed hearing. “The Judge at this point has not dealt with the substantive case. He has only done housekeeping. He has
made orders as to when we file our affidavits, when we file our defence and so on.” Attorney- at- law, Anil Nandlall, later told reporters that the court approved the application for Leader of the People Progressive Party Civic PPP/C Bharrat Jagdeo. He nonetheless noted that a separate application by Reaz Holladar was denied on the premise that Jagdeo’s application covered the same issues that Holladar wanted ventilated in court. He said that Holladar and Jagdeo filed a fresh action together in which they raised a number of issues connected to the elections results, the denial of the recount, the way the Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo, conducted the tabulation exercise and the flawed results which flowed from that. “At this point, the Court is to decide on an application for case by Jagdeo and
Holladar to be consolidated and heard at the same time as the matter filed by Moore.” Parties in the matter are expected to file their defence when the case resumes on Monday.At the interim, the injunction granted to Moore restrains the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) from setting aside or varying the declarations already made by the 10 electoral districts with any other documents or declarations until the hearing and determination of the judicial review of the application. The interim injunction granted by Supreme Court Judge Holder restrains GECOM from permitting or authorising “any person or persons to any agreement between the President of Guyana and the leader of the Opposition and or any agreement between GECOM and the Caribbean Community or at all, to count or recount any ballots cast by electors at the
Attorney-at-law Timothy Jonas speaks with reporters outside the Georgetown High Court yesterday.
Attorney-at-law Anil Nandlall March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections until the hearing and determination of the judicial review application.”“The interim decision also restrains the Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield, from submitting any report of the total votes cast for each List of Candidates pursuant to Section 96 (1) and (2) of the Representation of the People Act, save and except the votes counted and the information furnished
by the Returning Officer under Section 84 (1) of the Representation of the People Act until the hearing and determination of the judicial review application filed herein.” Attorneys -at -law Mayo Robertson and Roysdale Ford are representing the applicant; respondents to the court matter are GECOM, the Chairman of the Commission and the Chief Elections Officer. GECOM was, prior to the injunction, scheduled to re-
count ballots in the elections following an agreement by President David Granger and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo. The decision for a recount was made following an intervention by the Chairman of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley. Prior to the injunction by the Court, Mottley had provided a high-level team to supervise the recount.
Savage murder of woman and carpenter…
Alleged killer kept rage hidden during court appearance, apologised for threatening spouse - ‘forgiving’ wife asked magistrate to dismiss matter When she appeared in the Linden Magistrates’ Court on March 10, Imogene Gordon told Magistrate Dylon Bess that she had “forgiven” her husband, Maxwell Usher, for threatening her, and did not want him to be charged. And although she filed a restraining order against her spouse, she indicated that she had no problem with him living in a house that was just behind hers.But 10 days later, Gordon’s husband, who had apologised in court for threatening his wife, entered her 117 Prosville Housing Scheme, Wismar home. He then savagely murdered his wife and Royston John, a carpenter who had allegedly gone there to collect his pay for work on the unfinished property. Some individuals who were present when the couple had appeared in court, said that the killings came as a shock, particularly since there had been no sign of such a level of hostility when the case was heard. According to sources, Gordon had given no indication to the magistrate that she felt she was in any imminent danger from her estranged husband. In fact, rather than giving details of the alleged
Dead: Imogene Gordon
Dead: Royston John called “Blacko” threats, she begged the magistrate to have the charge dismissed. “The lady told the magistrate that she wanted to forgo the threatening language charge,” a source said. “She said she had forgiven him, but she wanted a protection order.” That restraining order meant that the accused husband had to stay a certain distance from his wife. But Gordon reportedly told the magistrate that she had no problem with her estranged husband staying in a house just behind the unfinished property she occupied. Those present in the court also said that the husband himself had given no hint of the seething rage he
harboured.“He was very apologetic, pious, he was respectful to the court. He did not show any violent tendencies.”On Wednesday night, Gordon and John were found dead, with multiple stab wounds, at the entrance of Gordon’s premises. Police apprehended a 48year-old businessman of Prosville Housing Scheme, Wismar, Linden, who once shared a relationship with Gordon.He was admitted to the Linden Hospital Complex, under guard, nursing a gaping wound to his right hand. He was later taken into custody.A knife suspected to be the murder weapon was found at the crime scene. Gordon and the suspect had been living in the unfinished house. However, he subsequently moved out, following an altercation between the two.According to reports, the suspect, Usher, had threatened to hack off the woman’s limbs.
Saturday March 21, 2020
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Saturday March 21, 2020
Saturday March 21, 2020
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Kaieteur News
‘Super Spreader’ NBA players test positive for coronavirus
A woman walks her dog past a deserted Staples Center in Los Angeles, California as the Los Angeles Lakers announced that two of their players have tested positive for the coronavirus. (AFP / Frederic J. Brown)
Saturday March 21, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You may start the day feeling a little insecure about everything going on around you, Aries. The increased pressures of work might have strained your nerves a little. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Extra money may come your way today as a reward for work well done. Perhaps you're getting a substantial bonus, or maybe you're slated for a significant raise. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You may attend a party or other group activity this evening, Gemini. However, you and the special someone in your life could well leave it early in order to steal some time for intimate conversation together. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You should feel exhilarated today, Cancer. You might choose to channel some of this enthusiasm into decorating your home.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Today you might experience, however briefly, the most intense and refined type of spiritual love, Libra. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today you might be feeling a very powerful and all-consuming love for everyone around you, and perhaps for all life forms in general. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) You could feel a lot of fond affection for everyone around you today, even those you normally might find irritating. Co-workers, friends, family, and the special person in your life are likely to be happier for having basked in this glow, and should reciprocate. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Work may seem more like a drag than usual, as today your thoughts are at home with family, friends, and your partner in life, Capricorn. You're unlikely to concentrate on work, and you might reach for the phone constantly to seek a friendly voice.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) A lot of warm and loving communications could come your way today, Leo. It could be in the form of letters, phone calls, emails, or texts Friends from far away.
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Your natural sensitivity and compassion are given a powerful impetus today by strong feelings of love and affection for everyone around you, Aquarius
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Good news! It looks as if money is coming your way. Perhaps you're getting a good bonus, or perhaps you've received a good review and will be getting a substantial raise.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20) You're a gregarious person by nature, Pisces, and today you might want to socialize and enjoy yourself. You could be overly concerned with your appearance, possibly because you wish to impress a current or potential romantic partner.
AFP - Two members of the Los Angeles Lakers have tested positive for the new coronavirus on Thursday as the Philadelphia 76ers also confirmed that three of their players had contracted the disease. The Lakers said they tested their players because on March 10 they played the Brooklyn Nets, who had four players previously test positive for the virus. The Lakers said team doctors are closely monitoring the two players. “We learned today that two Lakers players have tested positive,” said Lakers spokesperson Alison Bogli in a news release. “Both players are currently asymptomatic, in quarantine and under the care of the team’s physician. “All players and members of the Lakers staff are being asked to continue to observe self-quarantine and shelter at home guidelines, closely monitor their health, consult with their personal physicians
and maintain constant communication with the team.” The Sixers said the positive cases were uncovered after health authorities warned that certain players, coaches and support staff may have been exposed to COVID-19. Like the Sixers, the Lakers declined to name the players who tested positive. Marcus Smart of the Boston Celtics and the Denver Nuggets also announced positive tests on Thursday for COVID-19. On Wednesday, commissioner Adam Silver said NBA players should be considered “super spreaders” of the disease. Silver’s comments came amid criticism that wealthy athletes are getting tested for the virus ahead of critically ill patients in American hospitals. The Sixers said their three individuals were in self-isolation while being monitored by medical professionals.
“Three individuals have received positive test results for COVID-19,” the Sixers said. “All other tests results are currently negative. We have reported this information to state and local health authorities as required.” “The health of our players, staff, fans and community is paramount, and we continue to be guided by medical experts at this time,” the team said. Also, the Celtics said Thursday at least one player tested positive as part of a series of tests they are conducting on their team. Immediately after the Celtics announcement, guard Smart revealed he had tested positive. Smart said he was tested five days ago and got the results back on Thursday night. “What’s up everyone,” said Smart in a video on his Twitter account. “So I just found out I tested positive for the coronavirus. I am OK. I feel fine. I don’t feel any of the symptoms. “Help protect others by protecting yourself.” - More tests coming The Celtics said Smart would continue to be isolated. “The testing was initiated because of exposure to a known positive case,” a Celtics spokesman said. “The team is awaiting further testing results and will communicate them as appropriate.” Earlier, the Denver Nuggets said one member of the organisation had tested positive, but did not specify whether the person was a player. “The person, who was tested after experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 on March 16th, is currently under the care of team medical staff and in selfisolation,” the team said. These are just the latest NBA players to test positive for COVID-19 since Utah’s Rudy Gobert was confirmed to have contracted the disease last week, prompting the league to impose an indefinite suspension on play.
UCCA’s Price ... From page 22 Red Rose and Dukestown Warriors disposed of Number 70 Spartans in the semi-finals in front of large crowds. This postponement means now that almost all cricket in Guyana has now been suspended due to Covid-19 which has badly affected Global economies including Guyana, where the two International Airports at Ogle and Timheri, have been closed. The Borders Ports with Suriname at Corriverton and Molson Creek have also been closed. (Sean Devers)
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UCCA’s Price Right Supermarket final postponed due Covid-19 Virus The much anticipated Upper Corentyne Cricket Association’s (UCCA) Price Right Supermarket T20 cricket final set for tomorrow at the Number 69 ground in Corentyne, Berbice has been unavoidably postponed due to Covid-19 Virus outbreak in Guyana. This decision was made when the UCCA and the Sponsors met on Wednesday Evening to discuss the way forward for tomorrow’s planed mega Event. President of the UCCA, former Berbice and Guyana Wicketkeeper, Sidney Jackman, informed that the Organisers had planned to suspend their cricket season after tomorrow’s final.However, due to the threat of the deadly Virus which has already taken the life of a woman who returned from the USA and infected at least five others in Guyana, the final was put on hold.Jackman, the former Mayor of Corriverton, said everything was already in place for a day of fun and frolic for the entire family with the Final between Dukestown Warriors and Number 72 Cut and Load being scheduled to start at 13:00hrs. “Yes it disappointing that the game had to be postponed but as you know when there is cricket in Berbice the crowds are very large and this was the main reason why we had to go the way of safety first, since if one person is infected they could infect hundreds of fans in the crowd,” explained Jackman. Jackman, who played for Guyana in the 1960’s and kept to Lance Gibbs at the Skeldon Community Centre ground, informed that Price is Right Supermarket provided the uniforms
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Kaieteur News
Sidney Jackman
for 26 teams, balls for every game, umpires fee for semi-final and final and all prize money and medals.The UCCA President, who is sometimes a part of NCN’s Radio commentary team as an analyst, said his Association and the Sponsor had arranged ball-by commentary by a pair of International commentators with their Hotel accommodation being funded by the sponsors.A keen contest was anticipated since Number 72 Cut & Load beat Number 69 (Continued on page 21)
Crowds form at Olympic torch event in Japan despite coronavirus caution ISHINOMAKI, Japan (Reuters) - An Olympic torch event in Japan drew hundreds of spectators on the day of the flame’s arrival yesterday, creating the type of packed gathering the government and Tokyo 2020 organisers have warned against to prevent coronavirus from spreading further. About 500 people gathered in a jostling crowd to look at the flame and popular comedians taking part in a ceremony in Ishinomaki, 335 km (208 miles) north of Tokyo. The Greek part of the torch relay began last week, but a day later the remainder was cancelled to avoid attracting crowds. “It is not a good decision (to come here) but I am not sure if I will get another chance to see the cauldron,” Ishinomaki resident and teacher Kiyotake Goto, 44, told Reuters. Earlier in the day, a plane carrying the torch from Greece arrived at Japan Air Self-Defence Force’s Matsushima airbase, which was devastated by a powerful earthquake and tsunami in 2011. No spectators were present for the arrival ceremony at the base, where officials pledged the Tokyo 2020 Games will proceed despite mounting pressure to halt the world’s biggest sporting event due to the coronavirus pandemic.“We originally planned to have children here
to welcome the flame. But, prioritising their safety, we’ve decided to do without them,” Tokyo 2020 chief Yoshiro Mori said. “That was an agonising decision ... We will do our utmost in preparing for a safe and secure event,” said Mori, a former prime minister. Organisers have repeatedly said the Games, due to run from July 24 to Aug. 9, will go ahead, but as the rapid spread of the virus brings the sports world to a virtual standstill, fears are growing that the Olympics may be postponed or cancelled.“I think it’s impossible (to hold the Games). It’ll be a global issue if the virus spreads even further,” Koichiro Maeda, a 55-year-old company employee, told Reuters in downtown Tokyo. The respiratory disease, which emerged in China late last year, has killed more than 10,000 people worldwide. HEALTH CRISIS Japan is grappling with pressure to avoid a health crisis among 600,000 expected overseas spectators and athletes at an event that could see $3 billion in sponsorships and at least $12 billion spent on preparations evaporate. The plane with the torch arrived nearly empty after the Tokyo 2020 organising committee decided not to send a high-level delegation that was originally to have included Mori and Olympics minister Seiko Hashimoto.
“This is a tough time. I hope the torch relay will bring people vigour and hope,” Saori Yoshida, three-times gold-medal winning wrestler, told the welcome ceremony. The flame will travel round the Tohoku region hit by the 2011 tsunami and earthquake, in what organisers call a “recovery flame” tour before the official kick-off ceremony in Fukushima on March 26. Organisers have urged the public not to crowd the relay route, cancelling many events along the way and restricting public access to others. Runners and staff will have their temperatures and health monitored, organisers said. Some athletes, including reigning Olympic pole vault champion Katerina Stefanidi, said the International Olympic Committee’s decision to go ahead was putting their health at risk when entire countries have shut down to curb the virus. The torch relay will begin at J-Village, a soccer training centre in Fukushima that served as an operations base for workers who battled triple meltdowns at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant after the 2011 tsunami. It is due to pass many of Japan’s most famous landmarks over a 121-day journey to Tokyo’s Olympic stadium, including Mount Fuji, Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Kumamoto Castle.
Olympics cannot go ahead, says UK... From page 25 that these very personal (athlete) experiences take time to come through to the IOC level. I can understand that. “But as governments take action to protect their people — which includes closing down facilities on which athletes and para-athletes rely — and as that message is coming through more clearly now... I mean, we’re only a week in in this country.”
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday that he believed that the virus could be beaten in 12 weeks, but Coward said that time scale would make it impossible for team members to prepare for the Olympics which start in July. “I would never be so grand as to demand x, y or z. All I would say from a UK perspective, knowing what we know now, even since the
Prime Minister’s announcement on Tuesday evening (about avoiding mass gatherings and social contact), we thought the facilities would be able to remain open,” he said.“Now they can’t. They are closing. And that is creating stress. From my perspective, right now, I think that will have to lead to the conclusion that the Games must be (postponed); that the decision has to be made that the Olympic and Paralympic Games can’t take place as currently scheduled.”
Ramratan narrowly.... From page 22 got 16. Ricky Persaud took 2-12. Zeelandia/Maria’s Pleasure responded with 104-4 in 16 overs. Povindra Persaud struck an unbeaten 54, while Ryan Atkinson made 23 and Joshua Williams 17; Sachin Chulai, Tekeshwar Nankoo, Sudin and Jageshwar Ramcharran had one wicket each. The competition is being sponsored by the Guyana Cricket Board, Star Sports, Anil Persaud and Khan’s Trading Enterprise.
Saturday March 21, 2020
Jaguars can’t train as a group due to Covid-19 out-break
By Sean Devers Although Cricket Guyana Inc (CGI) has suspended all cricket for at least six weeks due to Global out-break of the Covid-19 virus, including the daily Franchise training at the Everest ground, Guyana Jaguars Captain Leon Johnson informed that players are working from home in preparation for the resumption of the Regional First-Class season.Johnson also gave his views about bringing in fresh faces for the last two rounds and explained what he felt caused the five-times defending Champions not be as successful as they were in previous years. “Obviously we can’t train as a group due to the seriousness of the Corona virus that has been going around. But our trainer Neil Barry has set out programmes for us to work at home…. work we can do to keep ourselves in some kind of physical shape.Players are smart now and well educated about the do’s and the don’ts, both physically and nutritionally,” informed the hard working Johnson. According to Johnson most of the players have been contacting each other to find out how they were doing and confirmed so far that none of his team mates or their families have been affected by the virus. “They have been keeping themselves in some kind of fitness so that in case the season restarts in about six weeks’ time, the players will be in some level of fitness,” informed the GCC batsman. It’s highly unlikely that the Jaguars can overtake leaders Barbados on the points table with just two rounds remaining but Johnson,
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But team trainer sets programmes to work from home Guyana’s leading run scorer this season with 447 runs, feels that the best team should play so the Jaguars can have a chance to finish second. The 32-year-old Johnson, Guyana’s most successful Captain with five consecutive First-Class titles was asked if he felt, taking into consideration Guyana will not win a sixth straight title this season, a few players could be‘blooded’in the last two games. “Winning the title would be very difficult…almost impossible… but I think depending on what our Franchise would like to achieve at the end of the tournament, I still feel we should always put your best team on the Park. Finishing second is also important to the Franchise,” said the left-handed number three batsman.Johnson said that it’s not only about giving players a chance because all is lost.“Players without any experience were picked at the start of the tournament.….(Nial) Smith and (Kevin) Sinclair came in and made their debuts this season. I always believed that a young player should be given opportunities but not because all is lost they should get the opportunity. As I said players were given exposure at the start of the season as well,” noted Johnson. The former West Indies U19 Captain feels that now that the championship is lost you should not be looking to give players exposure just for the sake of it.“I believe that you should put your best players on the Park since there is still
a lot to play for. These guys would want to further their careers, (Veerasammy) Permaul (50) is up there in the wickets,” added Johnson who played nine Test matches and six ODIs for the West Indies.Johnson explained poor fielding and inconsistent cricket were some of the reasons that Guyana did not do as well as in previous seasons.“I don’t think we were constantly good enough this season thus far. In previous seasons we were very consistent in doing good things for long periods. I don’t think that happened for us this season. Our fielding has not been what it used to be ...it hasn’t been great. I think in those tight situations …we had a close game against Jamaica….and a couple of games could have gone differently had we held our catches, also in Grenada we let a couple go there,” said Johnson, who along with Chris Barnwell were the only Guyanese with centuries so far. Johnson says that holistically as a unit the Jaguars were not as consistent as they should have been this season. “We don’t have the fast bowling points to show but I think that goes back sometimes to not taking the chances off the fast bowlers. Had we taken them it would have been a different game and the tables would have been looking very different now,” said Johnson who has six centuries and 39 fifties from 117 First-Class matches at an Average of 32.40.
Umar Akmal charged with two PCB anti-corruption code breaches ESPNcricinfo - The PCB has formally charged Umar Akmal with two breaches of its anti-corruption code for two unrelated incidents. If guilty, the penalty for the cricketer will range from a suspension of six months to a lifetime ban. The charges come under Article 2.4.4, which deals with: “Failing to disclose to the PCB Vigilance and Security Department (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the Participant to engage in Corrupt Conduct under this AntiCorruption Code”.
Umar had been provisionally suspended on February 20, and was issued the notice of charge on March 17. He now has 14 days (till March 31) to respond to it in writing. While Umar has kept mum since his suspension, his older brother Kamran Akmal defended him in a press conference after a PSL match on February 22. “I know my brother Umar, he cannot do any such thing. He is as clean as he was ten year ago when he came to international cricket,” Kamran said. “Umar has helped the
anti-corruption unit more than any other player.” Umar’s career has been plagued with incidents of indiscipline which have been a consistent roadblock in his progress as an international cricketer.Before these latest anti-corruption charges he found himself in hot water with the PCB for his alleged misbehaviour with a staff member after a failed fitness test at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore. However, the PCB put the incident down to a “misunderstanding” following a two-day inquiry.
Athletes should continue to prepare for competition, U.S. committee says NEW YORK (Reuters) The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee said its athletes should continue to prepare for competition while taking appropriate precautions amid the coronavirus pandemic, which has cast doubt on whether the Tokyo Games could go forward. Disruptions to qualifying events have been “significant” committee CEO Sarah Hirshland said, adding that the group is working to adapt those events in the runup to the Olympics. “We are very clearly encouraging everyone in our community to put their safety and the safety of those in their communities and those around them first following the guidance of local health officials above and beyond
anything else,” said Hirshland, in a conference call following the USOPC board meeting. “We’re also asking athletes if it is available to them and in a safe and in a appropriate environment based on local health official guidance to continue to do what they can to prepare themselves for competition. “We know the training schedules of our athletes have been significantly disrupted and as we are having to be creative and nimble in adapting our lives we are asking athletes to do the same but put their safety first and foremost.” Hirshland conceded the outbreak has caused significant disruption to qualifying events for the 2020 Olympics,
which are scheduled to run from July 24-Aug 9. Those disruptions she said are likely to continue. “Our teams are working very hard to partner with each sport and national governing body and the athletes from those sports to determine how to adapt team selection and selection criteria so we are prepared for a variety of potential outcomes,” said Hirshland.
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Ramratan narrowly misses ton in GSSC/ SS/Jaguars win; Zeelandia/MP victorious
Mohandass Surujpaul Opener Devon Ramrattan narrowly missed a century as Good Success SC/Sans Souci/Jaguars combined defeated Noitgedacht Sports Club by 231 runs, while Zeelandia/Maria’s Pleasure overcame G Square Cavaliers by six wickets when the Wakenaam Cricket Committee organised U19 50-over competition commenced recently.
Devon Ramratan
David Chalitar
Ramratan struck 95 and got support from David Chalitar 31 and Tushall Surujpaul 29 as Good Success/Sans Souci/Jaguars posted 263 all out in 34 overs, taking first strike at the Wakenaam Community Centre ground, on Saturday. Michael Retemiah bagged 524. Noitgedacht SC were
bowled out for 32 in 9.2 overs in reply. Retemiah was the only batsman to reach double figures with 10 as Mohandass Surujpaul grabbed 6-18; Chalitar captured 3-6 and Shahid Mohamed 1-0. On Monday, G Square Cavaliers scored 102 all out 18.4 overs. Sachin Dindyal made 31 and Kumesh Sudin (Continued on page 22)
NICIL refutes claims of sale of GNIC cricket ground The state’s National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) has denied that there has been a sale of the cricket ground of the Guyana National Industrial Company (GNIC). In fact, NICIL said, it will prosecute anyone found trespassing. “It has been brought to our attention that misinformation is being peddled on social media and elsewhere about the sale of the Guyana National Industrial Company (GNIC) Cricket Grounds located at Albert Street and Woolford Avenue, Georgetown and the lease of Mud Lots 1 – 11.” The entity, which manages state assets, said it strongly refutes all such claims. “NICIL owns the Guyana National Industrial Company (GNIC). The cricket ground is under the control of GNIC which is responsible for the maintenance and general upkeep of the said grounds, while the Mud Lots 1 - 11 continues to be leased to GNIC for the execution of its business activities and development plans.” According to the entity, should there be any trespassing, it will deal condignly with unlawful and malicious acts being carried out on the cricket ground and on Mud Lots 1-11. It was reported, earlier this week that the Guyana Cricket Board has a Stanford T20
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Kaieteur News
practice facility on the western half of the GNIC cricket ground on Woolford Avenue. It was also reported that a local businessman who allegedly evicted National Coach Michael ‘Hyles’ Franco from the location on Monday, was arrested and subsequently transferred to the Alberttown Police Station. The businessman claimed the land was leased to him by City Hall and he produced a document to support his claim. However, according to Colvin Heath-London, NICIL’s Chief Executive Officer, only NICIL has the authority to sell land at the GNIC Sports Club. The businessman’s workers have reportedly already dismantled the ‘cage’ surrounding the practice pitches near the southern fence. There were reports that a medical facility is planned for the ground. Only schools and recreational facilities are on Woolford Avenue. In 2007, the GCB and GNIC signed an agreement for the use of the western side of the ground where the Stanford concrete pitches and a changing room with washroom facilities are located.The project was earmarked for use by the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) and funded by disgraced Texan billionaire Allen Stanford.
NICIL CEO, Colvin Heath-London, Anand Sanasie It was upgraded by GCB at a cost of over $3Million. Secretary of the GCB, Anand Sanasie, earlier this week, said that he was summoned to the venue and informed that the businessman’s team of workmen had broken down the cage, evicted Coach Franco and painted out the GCB’s name on the building. “I spoke to the businessman who identified himself… and who informed that he was the owner of a medical company (name given). At the police station, I saw (the businessman) waving a Lease which he claimed he got from the City Hall,” said Sanasie. Sanasie stated that he made a Facebook post saying that NICIL had sold the cricket Board’s facility at the GNIC g r o u n d . S a n a s i e subsequently spoke to the NICIL’s CEO who said they had not sold anything at the GNIC Sports Club to anyone.
Zeeburg overcome Recharge in 7-a-side softball final
The victorious Zeeburg team with their prizes. Zeeburg defeated Recharge by seven wickets to win the final of the Travis Drakes/Roger Doobay/Visionary Sports Club 7-a-side softball competition which was contested on Sunday last at Lookout, East Bank Essequibo. Recharge batted first and scored 58-1 off their allocation of four overs. Travis Drakes made 27. Zeeburg responded with 59 without loss in 3.3 overs. Kishore Smith slammed 44 to take the manof-the-match award. Zeeburg beat Essequibo by seven wickets in their semi final game. Zeeburg took first strike and made 44-4 in four overs. Smith scored 24. Essequibo were bowled out for 37 in reply. Brian Mangar got 20. Recharge overcame Black
Kishore Smith (right) accepts his manof-the-match prize from Travis Drakes. Bull in the second semi final. Black Bull scored 39-4 in four overs, batting first. Ganesh Narine made 20; Travis Drakes took 2-8. Recharge responded with 40 2.3 overs.
Troy Drakes struck 24 and Gerard Armstrong 16. Ograniser Travis Drakes congratulated the winners and thanked the participating teams.
Triple Crown horse-race meet postponed The Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee’s (JJTRC) second annual Triple Crown horserace meet has been postponed, again. According to the Chairman of the JJTRC; Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr., the first round of the event which was scheduled for last weekend at the Bush Lot United Turf Club in West Coast Berbice and was pushed back to Easter Monday due to the current political situation in Guyana but amid growing fears of the Covid-19 pandemic that has reached the shores of the ‘land of many waters’, the JJTRC had no choice but to delay the event again. Like many other sports activities, the organiser could
not put a specific date on when the event will be staged but he shared that the JJTRC will follow the guidelines of local health officials. The feature race of the first round of the Triple Crown will attract a total prize purse amounting to almost $2million with the winner of that C Class and Lower race pocketing $1million. The winner of the threeyear-old Guyana-bred race will enjoy $400,000, the F Class winner $350,000, H Class: $300,000, I Class; $250,000, J Class:$230,000, K Class; $220,000, L Class: $2000,000 L Class & Lower; $140,000. Among the sponsors of the event includes Banks DIH Ltd and Trophy Stall. During last year’s final leg, the Jumbo Jet Racing Stables
(JJRS) stampeded away with over $2million in prize money. In the feature race of the day, the JJRS finished onetwo with USA-bred ‘Don’t Over Look’ finishing ahead of Vera’s Finally for the grand cash prize of $1million. Settling Star was third, while TNT finished fourth in the seven and ¾ furlongs feature race. The Triple Crown race promotion provides a bonus of $500,000 for whichever horse that could have complete three consecutive victories and Valentina; threeyear-old Guyana Bred, was the only animal in the running for the bonus, and the mare didn’t disappoint. She won the race comfortably to earn a total of $900,000 for her owners.
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Saturday March 21, 2020
‘Place more emphasis on the upcoming players’ - Sir Andy Roberts S i r A n d e r s o n Montgomery Everton Roberts was the ‘Father’ of the West Indian fast bowling quartet along with Michael Holding, Joel Garner and Colin Croft which terrorised batsmen from the midSeventies to the early Eighties at both Test and ODI level. The 69-year-old who was the first Antiguan to play Test cricket and paved the way for players like Sir Viv Richards, Richie Richardson and Curtly Ambrose, give his views on the Regional Franchise League, the selection of the ‘old’ players and the tenure of the Ricky Skerritt Administration while speaking on the Mason & Guest Barbados radio programme. The 63-year-old Skerritt was elected CWI President on March 24 last year and next Tuesday will be a year since he is at the helm of CWI. When asked how he rated the Ricky Skerrit Admiration after almost a year in office, Roberts said he rates any (Cricket) Administration by what is happening on the field and from what he sees he would
Gives the Skerritt’s Administration 6 out 10 grade lasted from 1974-1984 and included the first three ICC World Cups. Roberts (24) shared in a 64-runs last wicket stand with Deryck Murray (61) in the 1975 World Cup as the West Indies beat Pakistan by one wicket in the final over in a partnership that caused traffic jams across the Caribbean and stopped Parliament in Guyana. He give his view on the Regional First-Class tournament; “I think the Professional franchise cricket is not doing the work it was intended to do since we don’t see players coming forward and performing at higher level. Players are doing well in Regional cricket but if they step away from that level you find them wanting,” said Roberts, known for his slower and quicker bouncers at the same height. “One of the things that we keep running away from is that we keep placing all the blame on the Administrators and Coaches but we are giving the players a free pass. I will forever keep saying that if the players don’t accept 16 percent of the responsibility for their
Sir Anderson Roberts
give the CWI six out of 10. “At the moment we are still trying to mend fences between the Administration and some of the older players who are still playing…. the old folks…instead of focusing on bringing the younger players to the forefront since if those players can’t perform at the International level we are doomed. More emphasis should be placed on the younger players,” said Roberts who took 202 wickets from 47 Tests and 87 wickets from 57 ODIs in an International Career which
own development, we are not going anywhere,” stressed Roberts who captured 889 wickets from 228 FC matches between 1969-1964. When Roberts first played an ODI in the 1975 World Cup his selection was based off his performance in the Gillette Cup in England. “There was no elaborate preparation like now. As a matter of fact, I left straight from Hampshire and went to join up with the team. I was a youngster. I’d only made one tour of India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan by
The 1975 West Indies World Cup team in England.
then. One-day cricket wasn’t new to me though, having played a lot of it as part of county cricket in England. The only thing that was strange was playing against so many top-class worldclass players in the space of a month,” explained Roberts, who played County Cricket from 1972 and had to do a lot of work on his own. “You get some hardnosed (strict) coaches, some of the former players and you have to get the board out of the way, and also you get WIPA out of the way, because some of the things that the former players would say to these current players, WIPA maybe, would object to some of the things. But these guys need to be spoken hard to because they must realise it is not a bed of roses. It is hard work, it is commitment and you have to make sacrifices in order for you to get to the top and stay at the top,” Roberts stated. Roberts worked with Bangladesh’s fast bowlers in 2001 and again in 2005 and also helped coach India’s seam bowling all-rounder Irfan Pathan in 2006 when he became a West Indies selector but he lamented the present Board members don’t take his advice. “They say I am old fashion because I want to see perfection and I don’t think they are looking in that direction,” said Roberts who still lives on the 108 squaremile Island of Antigua. (Sean Devers)
Robert, Holding, Croft & Garner during the glory days of West Indies Cricket.
Olympics cannot go ahead, says UK Athletics chairman LONDON, (Reuters) - The Tokyo Olympics should be called off to spare athletes the “stress” of trying to train in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, UK Athletics chairman Nic Coward said yesterday.In the week the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Tokyo 2020 organisers insisted the Games will proceed as planned, Coward became the highest-profile UK sports administrator to say the Olympics could not go ahead.Four months before the event is due to start, global sport has been brought to a standstill by the virus which has infected more than 250,000 people worldwide and killed more than 10,500 — including 184 in Britain as of yesterday.Most Olympic athletes in Britain have found training facilities closed and are being advised to avoid going out. When asked whether it was now time to call off the Games in an interview with the Daily Telegraph, Coward said: “Yeah, it seems to be absolutely what has to happen. “And look, it shouldn’t surprise anyone (Continued on page 21)
Nic Coward - General Secretary of the Premier League during the opening ceremony (Action Images / Abhiram Indrarajan/File Photo)
Jaguars can’t train rt o p S as a group due to Crowds form at Covid-19 out-break Olympic torch event But team trainer sets programmes to work from home
in Japan despite coronavirus caution
Leon Johnson’s unbeaten 76 in the last game of last season against T&T at Providence, spearheaded Guyana to a fifth title last year.
Three-time Olympic gold medalists Tadahiro Nomura and Saori Yoshida light the Olympic Flame at the Olympic cauldron during a ceremony at Japan Air Self-Defense Force Matsushima Base in Higashi-Matsuhsima, Miyagi prefecture, northern Japan March 20, 2020. (REUTERS/Issei Kato)
Umar Akmal charged with two PCB anti-corruption code breaches
Umar Akmal pads up. (AFP)
p. 30
Valentina sprinting to victory during the second leg of the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee’s Triple Crown. (Emmerson Campbell photo)
Triple Crown horse-race meet postponed
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