Kaieteur News

K

AIETEUR NEWS

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

US offers Friday Edition $15M reward p.

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March 27, 2020 -Vol. 22 No. 12

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

for Maduro’s arrest

Price $80

- indicts Venezuelan President, other top officials on charges of ‘narco-terrorism’

Online readership yesterday 131,782

Guyana Ambassador, Riyad Insanally, summoned by US Govt. over ‘flawed election results’ p.

3

Flight out of Barbados…

Quarantine necessary to safeguard public

The border between Guyana and Brazil has been closed for more than a week.

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- Health Minister

Let’s talk; sanctions not the way

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- Harmon

Region 9 being closely monitored following reports of COVID-19 cases in Bonfim

Linden, New Amsterdam towns underp. curfews 14

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Coronavirus pandemic…

No legal requirement for party Jagdeo not in of total agents to monitor containers favour lockdown with ballot boxes - GECOM of country p.

19

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Dire sanctions will befall GECOM officials, politicians and their family members if credible elections not achieved - Datadin

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Kaieteur News

Friday March 27, 2020

Kaieteur News

Friday March 27, 2020

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Let's talk; sanctions Guyana Ambassador, Riyad Insanally, summoned - Harmon not the way

by US Govt. over 'flawed election results'

Coalition Campaign Manager, Joseph Harmon “Anti-national” was the term used by the A Partnership For National Unity + Alliance For Change Coalition's (APNU/ AFC) elections campaign manager, Joseph Harmon, when he sought to describe those who are lobbying for international sanctions to be imposed on Guyana.

Harmon addressed the media at a press briefing yesterday where he stated that the party has taken heed of the threats being made and called for the stakeholders involved to meet and sort out differences.

His comments emerge at a time when high ranking heads from the international community have threatened Guyana with heavy sanctions if a government is sworn into office on the basis of non-credible results from the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Even the People's Progressive Party (PPP) has made its position clear that if incumbent President David Granger is sworn in on flawed results, it will support

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo

the threatened heavy sanctions.

Harmon told the media that, “sanctions is something we have to be concerned about in this country because it can affect the development of the country, it can stymied that development.”

According to him, “…anyone who feels that sanctions will affect only one group of persons, they are probably not thinking well, because once Guyana is affected, we all are affected.”

Harmon dubbed the calls “anti-national” and stated that, “I don't see any country in the world that actually would want to invite that level of sanctions knowing fully well the developmental path on which we are.”

The Campaign Manager asked for a “sit down” with the Opposition and other smaller parties to “work out our differences.”

“Sanctions are not something that you play around with. Sanctions is not the way. This is not the way.”

We a r e n o t “ a n t i -

national” But Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, at a later press briefing responded to the comments made by Harmon.

In so doing, he opined that they are not “antinational” for calling on sanctions.

Jagdeo made mention that President David Granger had once requested sanctions back in November 2014 when he held the position as Opposition Leader.

“Granger himself has requested sanctions in the past…in 2014 that the country must face sanctions from abroad if Donald Ramotar did not end the p r o r o g a t i o n o f parliament…now he does not want sanctions.”

Jagdeo made it pellucid, “we are not anti-national” even as he quipped “the people who are anti-national is the APNU/AFC cabal that will put the country at risk and all of our people at risk from sanctions because of their lust for power,” he said.

Guyana's Ambassador to the US, Riyad Insanally Acting Assistant Secretary for the US Dept. of State's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, Michael Kozak

G

uyana's Ambassador to the United States Riyad Insanally was yesterday called before the US Government which has firmly reiterated its position that any government sworn in on the basis of flawed results would not be legitimate. This meeting has been organised

by Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs of the U.S. Department of State, Ambassador Michael Kozak.

Kozak in a tweet yesterday said that “on behalf of the US Government, today I summoned #Guyana Ambassador to the US Riyad Insanally to convey our firm position that any government sworn in based on

flawed election results would not be legitimate.” “Every vote must be counted,” the tweet said.

The acting US Secretary of State had previously issued a statement following the declaration made by District Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo. Kozak stressed that “vote tabulation irregularities marred Guyana's March 2 elections” and urged that no candidate be sworn into office.

That statement followed a report by APNU+AFC Campaign Manager Joseph Harmon that steps were already in motion to have David Granger sworn in, on the basis of the unverified, Region Four results.

The EU, in addition to the governments of the US, UK and Canada are among the list of International voices that have called for credible elections results in Guyana.

Jagdeo not in favour of total lockdown of country

Coronavirus pandemic…

A

fter being declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), China, Italy, India and 16 other countries have ordered a total lockdown which prohibits entry or exit of individuals. However, General Secretary of the People's Progressive Party/

Civic (PPP/C), Bharrat Jagdeo, is not in favour of total isolation of Guyana.

During a press briefing yesterday at the PPP/C's Freedom House office, Robb Street, Georgetown Jagdeo was keen to highlight the economic impact if a lockdown did happen in Guyana.

He emphasized that it would be difficult for families and by extension the country, to thrive if such a lockdown was implemented.

Nonetheless, Jagdeo emphasized during his appeal, for Guyanese to practice social distancing which would limit the spread (continued on page 19)

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Friday March 27, 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

Overkill or overabundance of caution?

The walls are closing in from all directions and rapidly.

The metaphors usually associated with forces of nature are summoned and put to work to describe the feared anticipations of the effect of COVID-19. India is bracing for an “avalanche” of cases (Bloomberg, March 17) and is now under lockdown, while Malaysia girded for a “tsunami” of situations (Reuters, March 17).

However looked at, this news from most quarters is deeply discouraging. The dilemma and challenge that come before all of us - leaders, citizens, and the fearful - is this: could it be a case of overreaction, or is it the sensible situation of an overabundance of rational caution?

A handful of news articles should serve to convey what encroaches and which tells the grim tale of how things are analysed and concluded.

First, from the New York Post of March 23, the headline speaks to a shrinking world, “NYC restaurants stop offering takeout due to coronavirus crisis.” There are two things that register immediately: the word crisis has now assumed the routine of the everyday, while for NYC to close restaurants first and then to close down the takeout window that was left is to paralyse even more helplessly a place of many that depend on, and live for, the fare of commercially prepared foods. For the most part, NYC is an eating-out town, with numerous diners and many workers affected negatively, and for which the economic effects are already being felt in person and downstream. For those cosmopolitans, who neither stock up on food supplies nor cook, it has to be a sinking feeling. Thus, the virus spreads in more ways than the physical and the medical, through the wearing down of the psychological.

Next, according to a Barron’s article from March 21, Wall Street experts are not thinking of comparisons to the last market debacle of 2008, the one that dragged down globally, but they are going all the way back to that dreaded time, the horror of 1929. It took forever to recover from that, and this is where the world stands shakily positioned presently. We here in Guyana ignore at our peril, for there are no exceptions whether directly or indirectly, be it medically or financially.

Third, there was coverage from the esteemed Financial Times in its March 23rd issue, which spoke loudly through the title, “A tenth of oil production may become uneconomic.”

That could be troubling for Guyana, which is betting so much on oil, and which is near suicidal in its passions on the promises of the product in its seabed. The outlook is that approximately “revenue from 10 million barrels a day of global supply will not cover the cost of production and payments to governments.”

Exxon did announce that it had to resort to resort to what protects its numbers, which are sure to take the hardest of unwelcome hits. And, to bring us right back to this COVID-19 pestilence in our house, the oil sector is already taking savage body blows from a price war, and falling demand brought about by the virus, which forces many indoors. Predictions come from all over as to the time and extent of the damage that could be wrought.

They range from a few months on the low side to closer to a full year on the other end of the scale.

So why are we squabbling, when we should be combining visions and energies to plan for what is ahead? Translation: bipartisanship needed immediately. So why are some articulating and exhibiting what is thoughtless and reckless? Our fellow citizens do so either through dissipation of the serious attention called for, or not contributing their share towards preventing that which possesses a high probability of flooring us.

The evidence is there and in increasing quantities that this apocalyptic landscape is not going away anytime soon. PAHO is calling for a lockdown.

There are those old sayings: discretion is the better part of valour; and he who runs away lives to fight another day. This threat is real and has pushed more advanced societies to the brink.

It is better to overreact through an overabundance of wise caution, than to conclude that it is overkill, which is ignored.

All law-abiding citizens and media must rally around Justice Claudette Singh DEAR EDITOR, Attention is drawn to a report in Stabroek News that notwithstanding GECOM’s advice that it will await the Court’s decision on the recount, “Analysts have argued that the broad powers conferred on GECOM by the constitution permit it to continue taking necessary actions and that ultimately the Chair of the Commission Claudette Singh will have to ensure that a recount of the votes of Region Four is done as she has given an undertaking to Chief Justice Roxane George” (26th March, 2020 ‘GECOM says awaiting court ruling before any further actions Claudette Singh facing key decisions’) I don’t know who these

analysts are that Stabroek News is referring to, but they, like every Guyanese, should know that laws are important because they serve as guidelines towards a civil society. Laws keep and guide us and help to maintain order.

They are the only thing, in a world peopled by diverse groups, interests, values, cultures, etc. that would prevent persons from taking advantage and exploiting others, even acting like barbarians. It would be a case of survival of the fittest and well connected.

The judiciary in Guyana, particularly in recent time, has demonstrated a level of independence that must be safeguarded and built on. It has handed down judgment that has impacted on both

sides, positively or negatively.

This is the only branch of government to date that has remained unscathed in the politics of discrediting, undermining and destruction that Guyana is facing. It is urged that we seek to respect its importance and vital role to the preservation of this nation’s health.

GECOM Chair Justice Claudette Singh SC is on record committing to a recount, be it in Region 4 and/ or all ten regions. What is yet to be determined is whether GECOM can yet do the recount.

The court’s decision will determine this, not the speculation of unidentified analysts or others setting out to cajole, intimidate or harass the learned Justice. This is

the only key decision the Chair must face, because the opinion of the court is the only one that matters.

We must await the court’s decision. To disregard the input of an institution that Justice Singh has been a member of - at amongst the highest level - and has helped to shape is not only offensive but disrespectful to the Judicature and her legal contributions to this nation.

It must stop.

Justice Singh is also on record committing to respect the Constitution and Laws of Guyana and the ruling of the Court in matters relating to GECOM. Thus far, this has been honoured and all lawabiding citizens and media must rally around her.

Lincoln Lewis

Ministers no longer hold their offices; no longer entitled to publicly funded salaries and benefits, and use of State resources DEAR EDITOR, Given the protracted delay with the declaration of the election result, the issue of whether persons appointed by the President to be Ministers, which includes the Prime Minister, and Vice Presidents, still hold their respective offices was raised as citizens questioned, quite rightfully, whether those persons should still be referring to themselves as such, and receiving salaries and other benefits connected thereto, all of which is paid for by citizens.

For reference, the important Articles of the Constitution of Guyana on the issue are: 61, 101, 103, 104, 106, 112, and 183.

For the sake of simplification, Article 104 states that the appointments of the Prime Minister, VicePresidents and Ministers shall have effect – which means

shall be valid or in force – in “any period between a dissolution of Parliament and the day on which the next election of members of the National Assembly is held”.

It is important to note that the Article did not state that the respective appointments shall have effect until the result of the election is declared, it states “the day on which the next election” is held.

The day on which the election is held is appointed by the President (see Article 61) and Granger in his capacity as President issued a Proclamation on the 1st October 2019, for the holding of elections which stated that, “The day for an election under Article 60 (2) appoints 2nd March 2020 as the day on which an election of members of the National Assembly shall be held.”

Simply for the sake of

completeness, Granger in his capacity as President issued a Proclamation for the dissolution of Parliament the 30th December, 2019.

Even though Art. 183 outlines the circumstances in which the office of a Minister becomes vacant, Art. 104 states the period until the respective appointments shall have effect - an important distinction. With the day of the election appointed as and held on 2nd March, 2020, the Ministers, which includes the Prime Minister, and the Vice Presidents no longer hold valid appointments as at the 2nd March, 2020.

Having already had the Cabinet, including the President as a member thereof, resigned by virtue of the successful passage of the no-confidence vote in Parliament on the 21st December, 2018, this means that the only elected persons

of the Government, which now remain is that of the President, who becomes a repository of all previously appointed ministerial portfolios (see Article 99) and the Attorney General (though not the Minister of Legal Affairs - see Article 112), still functioning in a caretaker capacity.

Premised on the foregoing, Ministers, which includes the Prime Minister and Vice Presidents, no longer have valid appointments and are not legally entitled to receive any salaries, benefits, and use of State resources connected thereto. Any such receipt thereof would naturally necessitate the institution of legal proceedings for restitution and malfeasance in public office for any payment made thereto.

Charles S. Ramson Attorney at Law

Quarantine conditions at Camp Madewini DEAR EDITOR, I arrived back in Guyana on flight TGY 5081 on 25th March at around 18:30. After formalities, we were taken by bus to Camp Madewini near Timehri. There were 17 passengers on the flight.

We were all informed that we would be quarantined for 14 days. This was expected but what was not expected was that we would be sharing facilities at Camp Madewini.

The ladies are sharing 5 to a dormitory and the men are 9 to one dormitory. There are also three young children

passengers here, as well as four persons from Suriname.

We have a female Doctor GP, here, as one of the passengers. With previous experience of quarantining, she has stated firmly that this is NOT quarantine.

Quarantine, by definition means the isolation of the individuals. There is no isolation at Camp Madewini; in fact, it is just the opposite.

By allowing all the passengers to mingle and mix, the MOPH (Ministry of Public Health) is INCREASING THE RISK of

any of the passengers contracting COVID-19 from one of the others, should they be positive but not showing fever.

It is astonishing and criminal that healthy people be put at risk in this manner and forced to sleep in the same room, with a fan blowing any contamination around the room. I am an elderly person and one of the ones most at risk, and I am worried and quite frankly frightened.

This accommodation is totally unacceptable.

• Inmates are expected

to share showers and toilets • There is no airconditioning • There are no mosquito nets • Bedding is flimsy and inadequate • Very basic food was served cold If you wanted to create a cosy environment to increase the cases of Covid-19 in Guyana, then look no further.

I am asking the MOPH to put proper isolation in place immediately to protect these passengers.

Peter Bouchard

Friday March 27, 2020

Loss of democracy could result in loss of Essequibo DEAR EDITOR, The International Court of Justice (ICJ) will be reluctant to pursue our case concerning Essequibo if our electoral process gets derailed and our government’s legitimacy is in question. Our standing as a just and law-abiding democracy must be strong as we pursue closure of this very important pending matter before the ICJ. Venezuela’s unofficial USbacked leader Mr. Guaido is of a very strong opinion that is contrary to our objectives as it relates to Essequibo.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken the position on his status which is favourable to our national security. Mr. Guaido’s position on Essequibo could lead to a problematic situation as it relates to the US if our democratic process proves to be highly questionable.

Under a Guaido Venezuelan government that is backed by the US, oil investments by US companies such as Exxon will continue to benefit, independent of who holds Essequibo.

Given the importance the US has placed on democratic rule in Venezuela, it appears that they have taken a neutral position on the matter of Essequibo. Their position could however change given the large reserves of oil in Venezuela, and any shift to a problematic democracy in Guyana could justify an unofficial pro-Guaido position on Essequibo.

H o w e v e r, i t i s m o s t likely that US neutrality will be officially maintained.

This will lead to increased vulnerability to an e m b o l d e n e d Ve n e z u e l a

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under a Guaido government and any move to an armed takeover of the Essequibo region may at best result in a very late intervention by lost strong military allies due to a perceived problematic democratic government in G u y a n a . We m u s t n o t forget what happened with Ankoko Island.

The United Nations Security Council would be the only best remaining option to pursue in such an event, but our standing at the UN must be that of a strong democracy to help obtain the desired support of the UK, US and France.

If a shift in our alliances goes towards Russia and China, this will favour a M a d u r o - l e d Ve n e z u e l a .

Reconnecting with the Maduro administration in defiance of the US-led position and sanctions could create increased uncertainty and exposure to loss of economic development via US-led oil exploration and production.

A Maduro regime alliance could also lead to a reduction in our national footprint upon the toppling of the Maduro regime given the US’ position on Mr. Guaido. The risk to national sovereignty in the Essequibo region will also exist if a Maduro regime continues to be in place, as it is in President Maduro’s best interest to promote a pronationalistic and patriotic position to maintain internal support for his administration.

Thus, any anticipated forced regime change in Venezuela will also place Guyana in the middle of a potentially highly volatile

armed conflict which may also result in reduced national sovereignty independent of who wins such an armed conflict. Therefore, our best line of action is to ensure we win at the ICJ as soon as possible.

As we move forward with our electoral process, we must keep in mind that a large portion of our country could be in the balance, depending on how strong of a democracy we establish.

It is of utmost importance and in our long term best interest to take a conservative position as it relates to our democratic process.

We all must place Guyana first and ensure that we do not lose this current opportunity before us to win our very strong case at the International Court of Justice, reconfirming once and for all Guyana’s national footprint and sovereignty over Essequibo.

Best regards, Mr. Jamil Changlee Chairman The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana

Election Observations 2 DEAR EDITOR, The departure of foreign observers, and the inhibition of their return by the pandemic virus, has made it incumbent on me and other local observers to continue our work here more urgently.

Last Tuesday evening, I went to observe the ballot box containers in GECOM at High and Cowan Streets. I took along my binoculars, but they were not necessary, as the police on duty at the barricades readily allowed me to pass. They were all courteous.

There were three groups of watchers. Two were in Cowan Street: one east and one west of the barricades. I parked near the eastern one and discovered they were a multi-party grouping, some with the ‘Guardians of Democracy’ shirts.

The western one had more people, and more wearing the ‘Guardians of Democracy’ shirts. The third group was in High Street on the pavement in front of the Ministry of Finance parking lot. They were identified as APNU/ AFC from the sign hanging

from their red shed.

I walked around, visited each group thrice, and encountered civility at all times except on the third occasion when I visited the APNU/AFC group. That group had hitherto consisted of elderly ladies and gentlemen, with a few children, but on this occasion they were joined by younger comrades.

They asked loudly what I was doing here. When I replied, showed my observer badge and proffered my card, they said they didn’t care who I was, that I had no business here, and that I should go back over there, pointing to the eastern Cowan St. group, from where I had come from my second visit there. This rejection was done with tirades of obscenities, without demur from the elders present. Therefore, I left them without saying anything further. The Cowan St. groups accepted my cards.

The loss of my national ID card shortly before Election Day caused me to visit my nearest GECOM branch office to apply for a replacement in my capacity as

a citizen, not an election observer.

I was not allowed in by the security guard after she consulted with the staff in the building, during the first week after elections.

I checked every subsequent week, but the answer was the same: they are not doing ID cards at the moment and cannot say when the service would resume.

On the second occasion, a helpful staffer gave me a telephone number to call that office.

This begs the question of what they are being paid to do.

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

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Friday March 27, 2020

Kaieteur News

Caring for According to what the third force of ordinary workers thousands of people did in 2020, I did right DEAR EDITOR, From the perspective of one who has had substantial experience in the sugar industry of Guyana, one cannot help but feel a sense of pride when in observing the decision–making debacle surrounding the dispensation of health benefits of the ordinary worker in the United States of America – contradictorily about which there seems to be but minimal unification, certainly at the level of the federal administration, one reflects on our own achievements in this area.

There was a time when in the sugar industry of those uncaring days it was plagued by malaria. It was Bookers Sugar Estates who recruited Dr. Giglioli and assigned him to research and harness the result of the mosquito which caused the epidemic, albeit with historic success.

By the early 1960’s the initiative was taken to develop new healthy communities for some 28,000 employees.

There were hospitals operating on all but one of the ten estates, with qualified para-medical staff headed by an Estate Medical Officer.

Remarkably, all the childbirths were professionally delivered by certified midwives, supported by qualified nurses and pharmacists (dispensers).

To date, GuySuCo remains the only industry anywhere amongst so-called democratic economies that provides the following health benefits:

Free medical services to its employees (28,000 in the 1960’s, 17,000 in 2017), their spouses and unemployed children up to age eighteen.

Add to that 5235 pensioners in 2017.

Until the closure of three estates in 2017, there were still 6 Estate Medical Officers supported by paramedical staff manning 15 Primary Health Care Centres which had long before replaced hospital facilities upon nationalisation, except for Skeldon and Port Mourant.

However, since then there were established two Regional Diagnostic Centres.

But also, ever since 1964, Bookers Sugar Estates had insured a contributory Hospitalisation and Maternity Scheme which, over time, included all monthly and weekly paid employees; and catered for overseas treatment. The Scheme still thrives today and includes families.

But this nationalised industry must have been from the start the most consistent contributor to our National Insurance Scheme which is required to compensate medical bills incurred by all persons formally employed.

There is of course the legal dispensation by employers of: paid leave paid sick leave paid maternity leave with all of which the Republican Administration is now grappling, not paying attention to Guyana’s track record.

E. B. John

DEAR EDITOR, It is with total disgust that I must report that the main excuse on the Facebook pages for not allowing a free or fair election is proffered as an unwillingness to repeat the sad 23-year PPP/C rule - in comparison to the wonderful things, which were accomplished during the last 5 years when the coalition government was in power.

Every derogatory remark overlooks the fact that the coalition government got into power because there are decent people in this country, both African and IndianGuyanese alike who decided that it was time for a change, and gave their support to the AFC in 2011 and 2015.

This support and goodwill for the AFC was squandered and lost because of the unfriendly actions of the coalition, to the sugar industry, the business community, the gold and diamond miners, and the fact that so much was squandered during the giveaway [I refuse to call it a negotiation] of our national patrimony to Exxon and the other extractors, currently estimated to be at least US$55 Billion.

Some people are now identifying some really sad accomplishments of this regime to retain power in preference to the PPP/C. But I am not concerned with them.

I am now and have always been concerned with a third force, and now after what happened in the 2020 elections it gives me, and should give most Guyanese, cause for hope.

There is no question that this country is very badly divided along racial lines, it has been so for a long time, and there will be some who will vote for the PPP no matter

what, just as there will be people who will vote for the PNC no matter what.

So let us examine the middle of the road people - the ones who think they would lend their support to effect change if offered a suitable alternative. And it happened, they initially gave that support to the AFC in 2011, then the AFC formed the government in 2015 with APNU, and the AFC negotiated a really good deal, they got more of the government than their votes merited, they ended up with the Ministries of Public Security, Natural Resources, Agriculture, Public Infrastructure, Public Telecommunications and the Prime Minister’s position, i.e. the commanding entities of our national economy.

Incredibly, they forgot how they got there; that the people who voted for them believed that they would do what is expected from a powerful coalition partner, and expected that they would help to curtail the excesses of the main party, the PNC. They did not.

Now we come to 2020, the right thinking Guyanese middle of the roaders did not support the AFC in the elections, and as a result the PPP had a good day at the polls on March 2nd - not so much for what they did or did not do, but because the AFC had literally committed political suicide from 2015 to 2020, and the beneficiaries were the PPP/C. Now I come to the PPP. They were in power for 23 years, the first part of it, 1992-2000 was undoing the economic momentum of Hoyte with the Jagans at the helm. In comes Bharat Jagdeo into the equation

and between him and Ashni Singh, the production of rice soared to 600,000 tons a year from 300,000 under the previous regime. The per capita GDP was only US$ 954.00/year in 2000 but soared to US$4,166/year by 2015, I am not making this up, it is all there at https:// w w w. m a c r o t r e n d s . n e t / countries/GUY/guyana/ gdp-gross-domesticproduct And the business community also flourished and produced employment and housing. They did not rigidly enforce the Tax laws just as Desmond Hoyte did not enforce them rigidly, since our tax laws are unusually harsh compared to other places, even in the Caribbean.

Rigid enforcement can and did contract the business community and jobs were lost. Unfortunately, their performance in the sugar industry was poorly planned and executed. And there were accusations of corruption I will not go into if it was right or wrong because I don’t have to, the middle of the roaders decided that they will give them another chance, and supported them because of the scandals and the incompetence of the Coalition in the dealing with Exxon and the sugar industry closures. I don’t have to find more reasons than that.

I am pointing this out now because most Guyanese are not even aware of the national dynamic and importance of the actions of the third force, compromising these people who are middle of the roaders. They are very important, and I salute them.

They have shown us that

unlike the other groups, their votes are not available no matter what; you have to earn it.

And the middle of the road, third force now has two very legitimate leaders in Lenox Shuman and Timothy Jonas.

The PPP/C were removed from power by this same group of middle of the roaders or the third force because they had ruled for 23 years and were perceived to have become comfortable with corruption. But after having been removed from power because of the perceived corruption by the middle of the road voters, they can’t possibly be so unaware of the consequences, to go back into power and continue as they have been accused of doing before.

And believe me, the middle of the roaders will be watching them. It’s the absolutely best indication we have had since independence, that a third force can exist in this country and make a difference. What destroyed the AFC is that they thought that their support would come from their members, no matter what! And that they would tolerate corruption and incompetence from them.

History has now established that it is not so.

In summary then, the Coalition lost the votes necessary to rule this country because of their politically suicidal acts when in power.

How can anyone say that the Coalition Government was doing better than the PPP/C in view of the refusal of the decent voters who supported the AFC in 2011 and 2015 but then withdrew their support in 2020?

These decent, middle of the road people, who formed the members of the third force and who supported the AFC and then removed that support and gave it to the PPP/C, are a good barometer of who they feel are better rulers for this country, the PPP/C or the Coalition. As for me, according to what the third force of thousands of people did in 2020, I did right.

Tony Vieira

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Friday March 27, 2020

Region 9 being closely monitored following reports of COVID-19 cases in Bonfim The Ministry of Public Health is closely monitoring Region Nine following reports of coronavirus [COVID-19] cases at the neighbouring city of Bonfim in Brazil. The report comes even as the border between Guyana and Brazil has been closed for more than a week.

During her daily update on the disease situation, Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence stressed that it is pertinent to note that both the Ministry and the Health Emergency Operations Centre (HEOC), have received several calls about a positive case from Region Nine.

She however noted that the case is not a case for Guyana.

“The individual in question did not visit Guyana for the last two weeks prior to his confirmed status or after it was discovered. We are aware that his relative who operates a business in Lethem is under quarantine in Brazil,

not Guyana. Both individuals are in Brazil.”

Notwithstanding, Minister Lawrence said that Health Officials in Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Demerara) have begun contact tracing so that “we can address any situation that arises and ensure the safety of the Guyanese population.

“The Ministry of Communities continues to work closely with the Ministry of Public Health in all the regions in the rolling out of the COVID 19 Response Plan. The HEOC continues to make recommendations to the Task Force as discussed on actions to be taken in order to curb the spread of this disease,” she said.

According to the Public Health Minister, the Ministry and the HEOC welcome any recommendations or suggestions from the general public as we all seek to stop the spread of the Coronavirus disease.

“We appeal to persons who think that they may have symptoms of the Coronavirus disease to call the hotline or their physician. We continue to ask that preventative measures be observed: social distancing, hand-washing and cough etiquette.”

At the interim, the Public Health Minister noted since her last report the number of confirmed cases globally has increased to more than 400,000 with the number of deaths globally standing at more than 18,000, according to the World Health Organization.

“In the Region of Americas, the total number of confirmed cases stands at 70,877 with 977 deaths in 48 countries,” said the Minister who added that Guyana still has on record a total number of five confirmed COVID-19 cases inclusive of one death.

She added that the number of persons tested to date is 26 with the five positive and

21 negative.

“Let me clarify that persons in quarantine are those persons who have been exposed but are not sick; persons in isolation are those who would have been exposed and have tested positive (showing signs and symptoms),” said the Minister.

Further, she said, “We have a number of persons quarantined by the Ministry of Public Health.”

Under institutional quarantine, there are 31 persons, while the number of persons on home quarantine is 135.

There are also four persons in institutional isolation by

the Ministry and as of yesterday, “696 calls were received from our hotline from Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six and Ten,” said the Minister.

With regard to its capacity to respond to the threat, the Minister disclosed that there are currently four facilities ready to provide services for 350 persons.

According to Lawrence, psychosocial support for all persons is essential, regardless of their status.

“This will be provided by the Psychosocial Unit with support from the Ministry of Social Protection,” the Minister added.

Minister of Public Health, Ms. Volda Lawrence

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Kaieteur News

Friday March 27, 2020

Dire sanctions will befall GECOM officials, politicians and their family members if credible elections not achieved -Datadin

If efforts to have transparent and credible elections are successfully defeated, then the international sanctions for all those who had a hand in this process would be dire. So says Attorney-at-law and Candidate for the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Sanjeev Datadin.

During an exclusive interview with Kaieteur News yesterday, Datadin intimated that countries which implement the sanctions would not be doing so on the mere complaints of politicians in Guyana but more significantly, on the credible pieces of evidence their officials would have obtained independently on the tainted integrity of the General and Regional Elections.

Datadin said, “These countries have embassies here as well as their representatives here and they must have realised and ascertained to their own satisfaction that the elections are being rigged...They have said repeatedly that anyone who benefits from fraudulent elections will be sanctioned.” In

this regard, the lawyer said that the sanctions are being spoken of in a personal sense. He said it therefore means that visas would be revoked, and assets and accounts would be frozen.

Datadin cautioned that this not only applies to politicians directly involved but their families too. Also affected would be the major financial backers of the parties and their family members as well as officials at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and their relatives too.

Further to this, Datadin said that the continued refusal by GECOM to willingly produce the Statement of Polls (SOPs) at a time when the country is being held at ransom, is preposterous. He said that if GECOM wanted to be fair and was desirous of a transparent process it would release the SOPs so all could see.

The PPP Candidate added, “To send lawyers into a court to fight for the release of SOPs and then to hear them say they will only do it when there is an elections’ petition does

not help Guyana. It only helps those who are trying to rig the elections. And make no mistake, this is a blatant and calculated effort to rig the 2020 elections.”

Given the events that have unfolded in Guyana since the March 2 General and Regional Elections were held, Datadin said it is only those who want to be blind would not see that there were serious problems with the integrity of the electoral process and that it was not done in accordance with the law. He also said that the government’s need to hide behind statements such as “GECOM is independent” and they “will carry out what GECOM says” can only be seen as a blatant attempt to not answer whether the tabulation of the Region Four votes was lawful, transparent, and fair.

Importantly, the lawyer noted that Guyana and particularly, the APNU+AFC politicians should pay keen attention to the sanctions Venezuela is facing as a result of a government that does not

Attorney-at-Law and Candidate for the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Sanjeev Datadin enjoy the blessings of the international community.

Datadin said, “What is happening in Venezuela is a sign for us, it will mean we won’t be able to access international financial funding and we are going to have a problem with foreign direct invest-

ment…”

VENEZUELA’S REQUEST TO IMF Earlier this week, Venezuela applied to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a US$5B loan but its request was denied. According to the Associated Press, Venezuela is in dire need of the loan to fight the coronavirus which threatens to push the Spanish speaking country’s already battered economy over the edge.

But even in such unfortunate circumstances, an IMF spokesperson told the Associated Press that the request could not be considered since there was no clarity among its 189 member states on who it recognizes as Venezuela’s rightful leader: Nicolás Maduro or Juan Guaidó, the U.S.-backed head of congress. “Unfortunately, the Fund is not in a position to consider this request. As we have mentioned before, IMF engagement with member countries is predicated on official government recognition by the international community, as reflected in the

IMF’s membership,” the spokesperson said in a statement while adding, ‘There is no clarity on recognition at this time.”

The Associated Press went on to note that Maduro’s appeal to an institution he has long vilified came as a shock to friends and foes alike since it is an about-face for Maduro, who for years, refused to share economic data with the Washington-based lender and just last month, condemned it as a tool of U.S. imperialism. In the past, he has called the IMF a bloodsucking “assassin” responsible for plunging millions of people into poverty across Latin America.

The news agency said it also lays bare the precarious state of finances in socialistrun Venezuela as it struggles with collapsing oil production and the effect of U.S. sanctions.

While Venezuela’s exposure to the coronavirus has so far been limited — with just 33 cases confirmed — the Associated Press said that (Continued on page 22)

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Kaieteur News

Friday March 27, 2020

What a tangled web we weave….

T

he Guyana E l e c t i o n s Commission (GECOM) has provided no credible or justifiable grounds why it cannot supply the statements of poll (SOPs) on which the declaration of the results were made in the 10 electoral districts.

If GECOM has nothing to hide and if it is serious about transparency, it should release the Statements of Polls (SOPs) upon which these declarations were made. It would appear to be the right of participating political parties to receive such information.

In December 2011, the Guyana Elections Commission dispatched copies of SOPs to the parties, which had contested the 2011 General and Regional Elections.

Each of the contesting parties received soft copies, on a DVD disk, of the scanned SOPs for the country’s 10 electoral districts.

The declared results by the respective Returning Officers are subject to tabulation and verification by the Commission. GECOM cannot therefore operate on the basis that the declared results at the District level are the official results. This point seems to be eluding the Commission when it says that it has to await the decision of the Court.

I quote the following from the Report of the Observer Mission of the Organization of American States (OAS) in respect to the tabulation process at the level of the District and at the Central level:“The OAS observers were

informed by GECOM personnel that the following procedures would be followed for the tabulation of the Statements of Poll (SOPs) at GECOM’s offices: a) After tabulation by the Returning Officers at the District level, the official envelope containing the SOPs would be transferred to GECOM’s headquarters. b) Upon arrival at GECOM, all SOPs would necessarily be verified by the Commissioners to detect clerical or mathematical errors. Rejected SOPs were to be sent back to the Returning Officers to be reconstituted with all original parties present. c) After the initial verification by GECOM Commissioners, the SOPs would be scanned into the computer tabulation center, inputted into the computer system, verified by a team of GECOM employees, and tabulated digitally. d) The original SOP hard copies were then to be sent to the office of the Chief Election Officer where a manual count would take place by a small group of GECOM staff.”

It seems clear to me from the above that the Commissioner had in the past opted to verify the SOPs to detect mistakes and to return these for correction at the District level. GECOM thus had in the past exercised its right to send back mistakes made, at the District level for correction in the presence of the representatives of the contesting parties.

GECOM, at the central level, also undertook its own tabulations of the SOPs. The

Manual of GECOM for Presiding Officers instructs that copies of the SOPs (Form 23 A) must be made for the Returning Officer (RO), the Deputy Returning Officer (DRO and the Chief Election Officer (CEO).

The CEO therefore ought to be in receipt of all the SOPs. He can therefore compare these with the SOPs of the declared results from the ROs and if there are material mistakes, this can be the basis for him returning the incorrect SOPs to the RO for correction.

Failure to do so would amount to complicity in a false declaration.

A third line of verification also existed. Before the results were presented to the Commission for approval of the official declaration, the CEO was expected to receive the hard copies of the SOPs and to undertake a manual count with a small group of GECOM staff.

The Report of the Commonwealth Observer Mission also reported this parallel tabulations at the District and central levels.

This is what it stated in its Report of the 2011 elections.

“Once the Returning Officer received the Statements of Poll a Regionwide tabulation was conducted. At the same time the Chief Election Officer, who also receives copies of each Statement of Poll, also tabulates.”

Given the claims made by opposition parties and local and international observers, it would be highly suspect if the tabulations made by the Returning Officer of District 4 are the same as those of the

Chief Election Officer at the central level. The CEO, at the central level, cannot be expected to present declarations to the full Commission, which do not concur with his own tabulations done at the Central level.

It is therefore respectfully submitted that the mere fact that the Returning Officers have made their ‘official declarations’ at the District

level, does not preclude the Commission from verifying these results and, if needs be, ordering corrective surgery.

Such a course of action would be consistent with the provisions of the Constitution, which allows GECOM to “…issue such instructions and take such action as appear to it necessary and expedient to ensure impartiality and

fairness…”

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

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Kaieteur News

Friday March 27, 2020

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Harmon: The politics of confusion, the confusion of politics

J

oe Harmon and Raphael Trotman held a press conference to offer APNU’s side in the never-ending saga of election confusion which raised its monstrous head on the fateful, Tuesday morning of March 3 when Returning Officer for Region 4, Clairmont Mingo, stopped the tabulation of the statements of poll (SOPs), only to resume on Wednesday when virtual insanity took over the tabulation train and derailed it over the Cassandra Crossing.

It is an onerous task trying to decipher logic and rationality in Harmon’s delivery.

There are omissions and huge gaps of incomprehension that paint a picture of self-destruction. Here is an attempt to make sense of what Harmon said, and also some references to what he chose to leave out or inadvertently did not mention.

Harmon acknowledges that Guyana could suffer profound instability from international sanctions and therefore wants the local stakeholders to dialogue.

One can read a positive note into this admission of realism. If he realises that sanctions can destroy Guyana’s livelihood, then compromise could be on its way. But Harmon’s dialogue advocacy is opaque.

What does he want to discuss and settle? He does not state. Here is Harmon: “I encourage all of the parties for

them to sit and work out our differences. Sanctions is (sic) not the way!” Before he went into that direction, Harmon concluded that APNU+AFC won the election.

Before his fear of sanctions was conveyed to the reporters, he had told them earlier in the same press conference that the declaration made to the Chief Election Officer (CEO) should form the basis of the election results.

Here is Harmon again; “We believe that we have won these elections. We believe that the figures are there; they have been there since the 14th of March and, therefore, it is that this is what will avert these serious sanctions.”

This is indeed the politics of confusion and the confusion of politics. Simply put – if there is a winner, why should there be sanctions? It is an exigent question that Harmon and Trotman need to answer Let us rewind the tape.

Remember Mingo’s numbers for Region 4 were made on Thursday (March 5) and thus there was a declaration for the general election. The CEO then apprised GECOM that there was a conclusion, so that GECOM could formally meet to accept the conclusion.

It was a court ruling that stopped Granger from being sworn in.

The same Harmon told the nation that as soon as the injunction was discharged by the Chief Justice, Granger

would be sworn in. It turned out that the court rejected Mingo’s figures and ordered him to re-do the process. He complied and continued in his old way by using a spreadsheet.

Then he moved his tabulation exercise, this time not at Ashmin’s building, but at GECOM’s head office where he made a second definitive statement – it gave victory to APNU+AFC. But the opposition parties and all the international observers lamented the old ways of Mingo and disagreed with his final figures that Friday night (March 13) at GECOM, thus rejecting Mingo’s numbers as valid. At the press conference, Harmon stated that based on the March 13 declaration, APNU+AFC has won.

If this is the position of APNU+AFC, then Harmon needs to tell the nation what exactly he has in mind when the parties sit down to discuss the prevention of sanctions, and when they do that, who is accepting what from the 2020 election results.

What did Harmon leave out at his press conference?

The question is: was he speaking for the totality of APNU? Two constituents of APNU have not taken the route of Harmon, and have gone beyond March 13. The Justice For All Party and the WPA have agreed to the total recount of all ballots, and desire an acceptance from all stakeholders of what that

count will reveal.

One of Guyana’s most prominent stakeholders, ACDA, which is close to the PNC, has suggested a total recount as a way out of the impasse Let us assume that JFAP, WPA and ACDA believe that APNU+AFC won. They have gone beyond that acceptance to the transparent route - that a total recount is the most reliable mechanism for settling the results. There is nothing in Harmon’s press conference

that approximates to the attitude of JFAP, WPA and ACDA. Harmon exposed the Achilles heel of his president and his party at that press conference when he said; “Sanctions aren’t something that you play around with.

We’re concerned about the threats of sanctions...”

Here is an open expression of fear. But unless a transparent election result is made, and if APNU+AFC swears in Granger, sanctions will see the arrival of ‘Jaws’ in Guyana.

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

Dem boys seh...

Wah miss yuh nah pass yuh!

Dem boys gat memory like elephant. Dem remember when in 2011, GECOM share out scanned copies of statements of poll (SOPs) to all dem political parties. So dem boys asking how GECOM nah want produce de SOPs to de court.

Dem boys know why GECOM nah wan produce dem SOPs. Dem boys believe too much ‘fofukkle’ tek place. And dem know dat dem lawyer ah call dat fraud.

Fraud gat jail.

Nuff ah dem in GECOM feel dat jail guh miss dem. But dem boys seh dat wah miss yuh, nah gun pass yuh.

Dem embassy people watchin’ wuh ah go on. Dem ah see more far dan Solder Bai, de see far man.

Dem boys know dat de list dun start prepare.

Visa gun get pull more dan teeth. And all ah dem in GECOM wah engage in de ‘fofukkle’ and dem mamee, poopa, buddy, sista, ajee, aja, nannee and nana gan get

dem visa pull. Dem embassy gun freeze all dem scamps with bankbook overseas. Dem who involved in de ‘fofukkle’ nah gon get fuh access medical attention in dem countries wuh imposed sanctions on we.

Dem boys hear from.. ah hmmm... dat family members, of some APNU+AFC persons dat involved in de ‘fofukkle’, already give statement to dem embassies denying any role in election rigging or intimidation. De family members talking how dey done tell de embassies dat whatever de embassies gun do, don’t involve dem; dey not part of de ‘fofukkle.’

Heavy manners coming.

Even before dem boys get spectacles, dem boys know how fuh read between de lines.

Dem boys reading between de lines of de most recent statements by de US and de UK. Dem boy seh dat de message is clearer dan ah sunny day: unless de results

of de elections transparent, whoever get swear in and all dem who involved in fraud at GECOM, gun face heavy manners.

Dem boys seh dat all who ah mamaguy now can’t resist de manners dat coming. Dem gun buckle like how dem health system in Italy and Spain buckling under de coronavirus threat. All who ah feel dem mo smart dan Bear Anancy gun be forced to hand de election to de rightful winner.

Dem boys sorry though fuh some ah dem. Dey gun never be able fuh wash off de shame and disgrace of wah dem allow fuh happen.

Dem boys sorry for de Iron Lady. She spend all she life building up she good name only fuh see it collapse. Nothing she can do will undo de damage to she reputation. De ‘ron’ run from de Iron and left only de ‘I’.

Tek half and lef de other half for dem embassy fuh do wuh dem gat fuh do.

Friday March 27, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Friday March 27, 2020

Flight out of Barbados…

Quarantine necessary to - Health safeguard public Minister Minister of Public Health, Ms. Volda Lawrence, is reassuring citizens that mandatory quarantine of 17 passengers, who arrived on the flight from Barbados on Wednesday night is necessary to safeguard the public against any possibility of a spread of COVID -19 or the coronavirus.

The Minister responded to complaints over the situation during an update on national efforts to tackle the virus.

During her address, Minister Lawrence stressed that the contingent agreed that they would be in quarantine for 14 days upon their arrival.

“Let me take this opportunity to apprise persons who

are inquiring about the necessary steps after quarantine or isolation. After the 14 days of quarantine, persons will be evaluated by a medical officer and based on the review will be cleared or placed on additional days of quarantine. If cleared they will be reevaluated after seven days,” the Minister said.

“For those persons in isolation, they will be held for 14 days after which, if no new symptoms develop, within in three days prior to the 15th day, they will be tested twice in 24 hours. If negative, they will be cleared but those with positive results will remain in further isolation,” she added.

At this point, Minister Lawrence reiterated that,

“these measures are an effort to protect all of us.”

In a similar vein, the National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) issued a statement expressing dismay at the conduct and behaviour of some of the passengers who sought and were granted special permission to return to Guyana from Barbados.

According the statement, by way of background, a group of Guyanese who claimed to have been stranded in Barbados made representation through various means to the NCTF and sought permission for a flight to repatriate them to Guyana.

“They claimed that they were caught in difficult circumstances with nowhere to

The quarantine facility for passengers who arrived from Barbados stay and little money at hand to sustain themselves in Barbados and pleaded on humanitarian grounds. The group proposed to pool their finances to cover the cost of the flight.”

The NCTF said that it considered the ‘mercy request’ and permission was granted on the condition that

all the persons must submit themselves to the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) protocols and that this included but was not limited to screening and a mandatory 14-day quarantine period at a government facility.

“It was specifically explained that the quarantine will not be either ‘self-quar-

antine’ or ‘home quarantine’.

It was further explained that should the need arise, the quarantine period could be extended.

The NCTF was assured that all the persons agreed, in full, to these conditions.”

The NCTF said that it was therefore astonished that almost immediately upon arrival in Guyana, several of the persons objected to being quarantined and objected to being housed at the designated quarantine facility.

“Some of the persons raised objections about not being permitted to “see”, “hug” and “kiss” their relatives who ill-advisedly gathered at the airport at which they arrived.

The NCTF is also shocked and alarmed that some of the persons contacted media personnel and reportedly complained vociferously and vehemently about the conditions, which they had agreed to as prerequisites for permission being granted to return to Guyana, the NCTF said adding that it provided the facts with a view to clarifying the misleading media reports Further, the NCTF said it “wishes to advise that it is reviewing a multitude of requests for special permission to be granted for flights to land in Guyana and the actions of some of the persons who arrived on the flight from Barbados can likely jeopardise the chances of other persons stranded elsewhere who are seeking similar humanitarian and mercy considerations as the group from Barbados sought.”

The NCTF nevertheless expressed gratitude to those persons among the group who have acted with reason and honour in upholding the agreement to be quarantined and who have willingly submitted themselves to the Ministry of Public Health protocols.

The NCTF said it is assured that Public Health Ministry and the relevant agencies will ensure that the best is done to comfortably accommodate all the persons during the quarantine period and hopes for a safe return to their homes and relatives in the shortest possible time.

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Kaieteur News

Friday March 27, 2020

N/A Council takes action to help quell potential spread of COVID-19 Through collaborative efforts between the Environmental Health Department of the New Amsterdam Town Council and its Regional Environmental Department in East Berbice, the New Amsterdam Market was on Wednesday fumigated and sanitised.This exercise was undertaken in an effort to quell the spread of the novel Coronavirus (COVID19). In fact, according to information reaching this publication, the Council in the ancient county has taken a number of steps to help curb the spread of the disease taking into consideration the impact it has had globally.

Based on World Health Organisation [WHO] data, the number of cases confirmed

by Guyana remains five.

Included as part of the Berbice response to help keep the number of cases down, the entire market, including office spaces, Council Chambers, selling areas and the fisheries, was sanitised by a team of workers attached to the Council.

The sanitisation process saw the team making use of alcohol and formalin. The exercise is expected to be repeated as often as possible and other areas are expected to be included.

The decision to start the sanitisation exercise at the market was premised on the fact that there are a number of persons who operate there and many more who frequently utilise the services offered.

Meanwhile, the Council is encouraging all citizens to remain vigilant, and be extremely cautious during

this period. In this regard, it is calling on persons to utilise sinks that have been placed at the Town Hall’s entrance and other strategic points to facilitate hand-washing by those conducting business within the vicinity.

The Council has also issued a call to all beauty salons, barbers, tattoo and piercing parlours to observe social distancing and other precautionary measures to curb possible spread of the disease.

In the interim, all Statutory Meetings have been cancelled and a decision on the way forward will be made

by April 5, this publication has been informed.

The Council will now also be opened for business from 08:00 to 14:00 hrs and the

The team of sanitation workers ready to wage war against COVID-19 market itself will be opened for business from 07:00hrs to 15:00hrs daily with the

Health workers, who are part of the team, heading to undertake a sanitisation task.

exception of Sundays when the gates will be closed at 12 noon.

Kaieteur News

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Friday March 27, 2020

Linden, New Amsterdam towns under curfews

Mayor of New Amsterdam, Her Worship Winifred Haywood, along with Constabulary Sergeant Paul Beaton and Councillor Sheeanta Lambert interacting with a resident.

A

fter giving keen consideration to the measures being proposed to effectively combat COVID19, two municipalities have decided to be proactive in their response. Both the New Amsterdam and Linden municipalities have instituted curfews in hopes of encouraging social distancing, a tactical move to reduce the spread of the contagious disease.

In New Amsterdam, the Council took a decision to implement temporary curfews on businesses within the municipality. It has also mandated all dining outlets to be closed by 18:00 hrs and supermarkets and grocery shops by 19:00 hrs.

Pharmacies have also been given a stipulated 20:00hrs closing time.

N/A Mayor, Winifred Haywood, on Tuesday led a team of municipal representatives to visit grocery stores, supermarkets, restaurants, other food outlets and bars to

Leading by example, Regional Vice Chairman Elroy Adolph washing his hands at a sink set up at the RDC's Admin building. raise awareness of the novel coronavirus.

The team included Town Clerk, Sharon Alexander; Councillors Buster Wright, Quacy Isaacs and Sheeanta Lambert; Environmental Health Assistant, Jafanna Wright and Constabulary Sergeant, Paul Beaton.

According to Mayor Haywood, Divisional

Commander Calvin Brutus has been given the undertaking to take action should there be lax adherence.

Additionally, business owners have been sensitised about the Ministry of Public Health's COVID-19 guidelines as it relates to the prevention of the spread of the virus.

Sitting: Regional Chairman, Renis Morian; Mayor Waneka Arrindell. Standing [front left]: Colonel Eon Murray; RHO Dr. Pansy Armstrong; Station Officer for the Linden Fire Department, Courtney Springer; Regional Police Commander, Hugh Winter, and DREO Maylene Stephen Meanwhile, in Linden t h e M a y o r a n d To w n Council, along with the Region's Regional Democratic Council [RDC] met at an urgent meeting yesterday. At the meeting, several stakeholders in attendance were briefed on measures that the Region has planned to help ward off the disease.

The almost three-hour long meeting in the RDC boardroom addressed how residents and several others have been responding to the potential danger that the virus poses to them. Mayor Waneka Arrindell said that she is very disappointed and somewhat alarmed by the behaviour of several residents who she said, “are operating as though COVID9 will not affect the region”.

“I am appalled to see how several businesses are opened late at nights with large crowds of people mingling as though everything is okay. We as a municipality along with the various stakeholders have to put systems in place so that people would recognise that it cannot be business or our lives as usual because serious measures must be taken so as to ensure the

safety of others,” she said.

The Mayor told stakeholders that she is seeking support and endorsement to put strict measures in place with those gathered at the meeting agreeing that a curfew should be implemented.

Moreover, the Mayor using her municipal powers, and with the support of stakeholders, yesterday decided to implement curfew similar to that activated in New Amsterdam whereby supermarkets and pharmacies are mandated to close by 19:00 hours and other business one hour earlier.

The Linden Council has taken its measures a step further that will restrict persons from gathering in public after 20:00 hrs. It was revealed that only essential workers including healthcare professionals, among others, will be permitted on the road after that time.

The Mayor disclosed that, “anyone found after 20:00 hrs on the road will be picked up by the police and will be subjected to search.”

She noted further that should persons resist the new order, the police force will take the

required actions.

Commander of Region 10, Hugh Winter said that his ranks will be readily available to serve the people of the region after being duly informed of the decision made.

“I am certain that some persons would give resistance as its understandable that people are not keen in conditioning themselves to restricted movements, but this is important as it means that we are seeking to collaborate to ensure that residents are safe,” he added.

It was revealed that vehicles moving through Region 10 will also be restricted as the Mayor and those in attendance agreed that immediate and strict measures must be taken if residents are to remain safe.

Mayor Arrindell along with Colonel Eon Murray; Regional Chairman, Renis Morian; Regional Vice Chairman, Elroy Adolph; Deputy Mayor, Wainwright Bethune; Police Commander Winter; Regional Executive Officer, Orrin Gordon; Deputy Regional Executive Officer, Maylene Stephen, among others stakeholders, (continued on page 19)

Friday March 27, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Friday March 27, 2020

US offers $15M reward for Maduro’s arrest WA S H I N G T O N (Reuters) - The U.S. government yesterday i n d i c t e d Ve n e z u e l a n President Nicolas Maduro and more than a dozen other top Venezuelan officials on charges of “narcoterrorism,” the latest escalation of the Trump administration's pressure campaign aimed at ousting the socialist leader.

The State Department offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Maduro, whose country has been

- indicts Venezuelan President, other top officials on charges of 'narco-terrorism' convulsed by years of a deep economic crisis and political upheaval.

The indictment, a rare U.S. action against a sitting foreign head of state, marks a serious new phase against Maduro by Washington at a time when some U.S. officials have privately said President Donald Trump is increasingly frustrated with the results of his Venezuela

policy.

Attorney General William Barr, announcing charges that include narcot e r r o r i s m c o n s p i r a c y, corruption, and drug trafficking, accused Maduro and his associates of colluding with a dissident faction of demobilized Colombian guerrilla group, the FARC, “to flood the United States with cocaine.”

“While the Venezuelan people suffer, this cabal lines their pockets with drug money and the proceeds of their corruption,” Barr said of Maduro and the others who were indicted.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said the charges and rewards being offered showed the Trump administration's “desperation” as well as its

A wanted poster offering $15 million dollars for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro is seen after being released by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as Maduro and more than a dozen other top Venezuelan officials were indicted by the U.S. Justice Department on charges of "narco-terrorism" in Washington, U.S. March 26, 2020. DEA/Handout via REUTERS “obsession” with the South American country aimed at benefiting Trump's 2020 reelection campaign.

Trump's pressure on Venezuela has gone over well among Cuban Americans in South Florida, a key voting bloc in a major presidential swing state.

The U.S. government has previously lodged criminal indictments against members of Maduro's family and inner circle. He and his allies have dismissed such allegations as a smear campaign, and argue the

United States is responsible for drug trafficking, given its role as a leading consumer.

Maduro is already under U.S. sanctions and has been the target of a U.S. effort aimed at pushing him from power. He took office in 2013 after the death of his mentor President Hugo Chavez, a staunch foe of the United States.

O t h e r Ve n e z u e l a n officials whose indictments were announced yesterday include Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez, (continued on page 19)

Kaieteur News

Friday March 27, 2020

Police Force to commence campaign against public gathering - NCTF

T

he National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) yesterday held a virtual meeting as it continued to practice social distancing.

The NCTF used the opportunity to commend the Ministry of Public and the team of dedicated persons at the Health Emergency Operations Centre for their tireless work in containing the spread of COVID-19 in Guyana beyond the five confirmed cases to date.

The NCTF also commended those citizens and businesses that have been heeding the public health advisories and have been practising social distancing and good hygienic practices.

The NCTF however remains deeply concerned about the large number of persons who continue to ignore the advisories.

The NCTF pleaded with all Guyanese to play their part in ensuring that they take the recommended actions in helping to curb the spread of COVID-19.

“The NCTF urges persons to 'decluster' in public spaces, to zealously practice social distancing and to refrain from socialising. Guyanese are advised to spend as little time in public as is possible and to only leave their homes when absolutely necessary.

The NCTF noted that the

Guyana Police Force will shortly commence a campaign to advise persons against gathering in public spaces and to discourage persons who are found to be doing so.

In the meantime, the NCTF urges the owners and operators of all businesses but especially of nonessential businesses to adopt reasonable measures and practices to discourage persons from gathering in large numbers and from engaging in socialising, particularly at late hours into the night.

It also noted the move to close Guyana's airports to incoming international flights, save and except technical stops for aircrafts that require fuel and specially authorised flights and added for the avoidance of doubt, “specially authorised flights” will only be considered in extreme humanitarian and emergency cases. Outgoing cargo flights and outgoing medivac flights will continue to be permitted.

The NCTF comprises Prime Minister and First Vice President, Hon. Moses Nagamootoo (Chairman); Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams SC; Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence; Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan;

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings; Minister of Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry; Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan; Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson; Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman and Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix.

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Friday March 27, 2020

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No legal requirement for party agents to monitor containers with ballot boxes - GECOM

A

ccording to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), there is no legal requirement for agents of political parties to monitor the containers which hold ballot boxes—once they have been deposited in the custody of the Commission.

GECOM's enlightenment followed after there were messages circulating which claimed that GECOM was restricting party agents from moving around containers to ensure that they were kept safe and had not been

compromised.

GECOM refuted those claims and was keen to reference Section 141 of the Representation of the People Act, which states that “…in any indictment, information or complaint for an offence in relation to the ballot boxes, ballot papers and other election material, the property in them may be stated to be in the Chief Election Officer.”

“The law does not contemplate party agents as a key stakeholder in the security of ballot boxes once these have been deposited,” GECOM said in a press statement

yesterday. Though there is legal provision for party agents to act as security for electoral materials, in the present circumstance, Chairperson of GECOM, Justice (ret'd) Claudette Singh, made a decision on March 15, 2020 that one agent per political party be accommodated in GECOM's compound for the sole purpose of watching containers with the March 2, General and Regional Elections 2020 ballot boxes.

In fact, pre-dating to Election Day, there was an administrative arrangement for all contesting

parties to place chains and padlocks on each container with ballot boxes. Only the two main parties, the APNU+AFC Coalition and the PPP/C, have placed chains and padlocks on each container in the custody the Commission.

“GECOM recognised that the safety and security of its staff and compound were compromised by the presence of party agents, and as of March 25, 2020, political parties were asked to desist from photographing and taking videos of staff members and GECOM's routine operations. In light of the

foregoing, the Commission is requesting for party agents to observe the Commission security protocol and desist from peddling misinformation in this regard,” the statement concluded.

US offers $15M reward for Maduro arrest From page 16 senior socialist leader Diosdado Cabello, and the chief justice of the country's supreme court, Maikel Jose Moreno Perez, who was charged with money laundering.

The U.S. government is offering $10 million for information leading to Cabello's arrest.

The United States and dozens of other countries have recognized opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate

president, regarding Maduro's 2018 re-election as a sham. But Maduro has remained in power, backed by the country's military and

by Russia, China and Cuba.

U.S. officials have long accused Maduro and his associates or running a “narco-state,” saying they have used proceeds from drugs transshipped from neighboring Colombia to make up for lost revenue from a Venezuelan oil sector hit by heavy sanctions by the United States.

'DEPLOYED COCAINE AS A WEAPON' The indictments were unsealed in New York, Florida and Washington.

Barr dodged a reporter's question on whether Trump, who has pressed his aides in recent months for a tougher approach on Venezuela, was briefed in advance, saying, “I don't talk about internal deliberations.”

Maduro and his closest allies ran a “narco-terrorism partnership with the FARC for the past 20 years,” stated

Linden, New Amsterdam towns...

From page 14 addressed the residents via television and radio explaining the decisions and other measures that have been implemented.

DREO Stephen stressed that the measures being implemented will aid in saving lives, noting that she expects residents and visitors to the region would consider the urgency of the situation and adhere to the necessary guidelines.

“These measures will certainly help in saving and ensuring that we remain safe in these very difficult times and I trust that all will support these new measures,” she said.

Meanwhile, REO

Gordon appealed for strict measures to be put in place to monitor the implemented guidelines.

He related that some days ago, he witnessed several residents at one of the region's popular beaches operating “as if nothing was wrong”.

“I am shocked to see how some residents have responded as they continue to operate as if everything is okay and we must ensure that we have a very strict monitoring system to prevent any loopholes.

Persons will seek to exploit loopholes. I am urging those people who will be monitoring to recognise that even those passing through

our region must be monitored and will have to adhere to our set out guidelines,” he asserted.

Mayor Arrindell embraced recommendations made by both Gordon and Regional Chairman Morian who has training in disaster risk management.

The meeting also saw the establishment of a Regional Health Emergency Committee with several agencies and departments forming part of it.

The committee, which is expected to meet every 48 hours, will gear its efforts towards providing regular reports to the Ministry of Communities, the DREO Stephen said.

Jagdeo not in favour of total lockdown...

From page 3 of the Coronavirus.

As it continues to spread at an alarming rate—with over 400,000 confirmed cases globally and over 18,000 deaths, the WHO has appealed to countries to practice “self- isolation” and “social distancing” to ward off, help stop or slow down the spread of disease. This practice, according to the WHO, would allow the

healthcare system to more readily care for patients over time.

“Most people by now would have seen the advisories which recommend people to avoid gathering in large numbers (and) for them to stay away from work. I know people feel trapped in their homes and all of that, but they have to consider the consequences of the

transmission of the disease,” he said yesterday.

Jagdeo added that, “I have heard reports of gatherings in clubs and other public settings.

That is not an environment that is conducive to limiting the spread of the virus. People should observe social distancing; this is crucial for the country,” he asserted during the press briefing.

Geoffrey Berman, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, who s a i d t h e Ve n e z u e l a n president “very deliberately deployed cocaine as a weapon.”

“The scope and magnitude of the drug trafficking alleged was made possible only because Maduro and others corrupted the institutions of Venezuela and provided political and military protection for the rampant narco-terrorism crimes described in our charges,” he added.

The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Ariana Fajardo Orshan, said she sees signs of Venezuelan officials' laundered money throughout her area every day, from fancy yachts to million-dollar condos.

“This party is coming to an end,” she said.

Asked whether the U.S. government was also considering designating Venezuela a state sponsor of terrorism, which carries further sanctions, Barr said:

“It's really one step at time, so I really have nothing to say about that right now.”

CNN, citing sources familiar with the situation, reported earlier that Venezuela was expected to be named to the blacklist as soon as yesterday. But a U.S. official told Reuters such a move was not likely imminent.

Yesterday's charges altogether carry a maximum penalty of up to life in prison.

Asked whether the U.S. government wants to capture Maduro dead or alive, Barr said: “We want him captured so he can face justice in U.S. court.”

Barr said the administration does “expect eventually to gain custody of these defendants.” But he offered no indication of how U.S. authorities might get their hands on Maduro, who has endured more than a year of heavy international pressure and on-again, offagain street protests as the OPEC member's economy has continued to unravel.

Maduro's international

travel could be restricted, given Washington would be able to request that he be handed over if he visits a country that has an extradition treaty with the United States. U.S. authorities can also freeze any assets he has in the United States, though such holdings are considered unlikely.

The Justice Department said that since at least 1999, Maduro, along with Cabello and others, “acted as leaders and managers of the 'Cartel of the Suns'.” The name, it said, refers to the sun insignias affixed to the uniforms of high-ranking Ve n e z u e l a n m i l i t a r y officials.

An indictment accused Padrino, who holds the rank of general, of using his control of the Venezuelan military to facilitate cocaine flights to the United States.

Ve n e z u e l a n V i c e President Tareck el-Aissami, who already faced U.S. sanctions for alleged drug trafficking, was charged with evading U.S. sanctions.

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Central Bank welcomes initiatives by commercial banks PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - CMC – The Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (CBTT) says the proposed payment deferrals being implemented by banks operating here will provide flexibility to customers of financial institutions affected by the coronavirus (COVID19) and assist also in maintaining financial institutions’ soundness.

The Bankers’ Association of Trinidad and Tobago (BATT) recently announced that its members will be implementing a number of measures, including payment deferrals, rate reductions and waivers of penalty charges and late payment fees, on credit facilities in order to limit the impact of national measures being instituted to contain the spread of the virus.

The CBTT said that such proposed payment deferrals will result m credit facilities becoming past due in the context of its Impaired Assets Guideline and will also lead to the modification of loan agreements, which are subject

to limitations. The CBTT said that rate reductions will also result in the modification of loan agreements.

“However, the Central Bank considers the current circumstances to be extenuating and notes that the proposed measures will provide flexibility to customers of financial institutions affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and assist also in maintaining financial institutions’ soundness,” the CBTT added.

The CBTT said it is also advising that it will relax its regulatory treatment for restructured loans due to “skipped payments” or rate reductions and past due facilities for a period of three months in the first instance for payments due by March 31.

The CBTT said that in accordance with the Market Conduct measures, financial institutions are required to provide borrowers with accurate disclosures when offering “skipped payments” and/ or rate reductions, which will alleviate any misunderstand-

ings relative to the changes in the terms and conditions of the loan contract.

“The financial institution must provide customers with adequate intonation to understand the implications of a “skipped payment” or payment deferral, including the consequences (if any) for the total amount payable under the loan contract, the term of the loan, and the amount of contractual monthly instalments.”

The Central Bank said that the customer should also have no liability to pay any charge or fee associated with the granting of the “skipped payment” or deferral arrangement.

“It should be noted that the guidance being provided on the treatment of “skipped payments” or payment deferrals amidst the COVID-19 crisis is restricted to the regulatory treatment of such exposures. Licensees must continue to provision for these loans in line with international accounting standards,” the CBTT added.

Friday March 27, 2020

Staying healthy is key to fighting off COVID-19 – CDC to PLHIV Backed by its global reach and its, thus far, unmatched characteristics, COVID-19 is currently one of the greatest health threats to mankind’s continued existence. The novel coronavirus has been building contagion momentum since December of last year when it emerged in Wuhan, China. Thus far, the virus has made its presence felt in more than 190 countries infecting in excess of 400,000 and claiming the lives of over 18,000.

It was while it was developing into a pandemic that medical experts were able to ascertain that although all are at risk, there are those among us who are at even greater risk. These include senior adults and persons with underlying conditions such as heart and lung disease, kidney failure and those with comprised immune system.

Moreover, among those touted to be most at risk are persons living with HIV [PLHIV]. Although the actual risk is not known, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] has revealed that if complemented with viral respiratory infections, the risk of serious illness could be amplified. This is especially the case for “people with low CD4 cell count and people not on HIV treatment [antiretroviral therapy or ART],” the CDC has noted.

According to the information shared by the public health institute too, people with HIV can also be at increased risk of becoming very sick with COVID-19 based on their age and other medical

conditions.

And since there is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19, CDC has urged that the best way to prevent getting sick is to avoid expo-

remains five. While patient zero was confirmed coronavirus-positive postdeath on March 11 and three of the five cases a few days later, the last confirmed case

sure to the virus. “People with HIV should take everyday preventative actions to help prevent the spread of COVID19,” the CDC has noted. The counsel from the CDC is that people with HIV should also continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating right, getting at least eight hours of sleep and reducing stress as much as possible.

“Staying healthy helps your immune system fight off infection should it occur. If you have HIV and are taking your HIV medicine, it is important to continue your treatment and follow the advice of your health care provider.

This is the best way to keep your immune system healthy,” the CDC has advised.

Meanwhile, according to data published by the World Health Organization [WHO], Guyana’s coronavirus figure

was announced more than one week ago. But according to health officials here, this is certainly not the time for relaxed defenses.

Seventeen persons, who arrived from Barbados, were on Thursday night added to nine others in mandatory quarantine and four in mandatory isolation. In addition to this, Minister of Public Health, Ms. Volda Lawrence, said that her Ministry has one ‘person of interest’ on its radar, asserting that, “At one point, we did have seven persons who were of interest to us.”

The incubation period for the disease is said to be about 14 days and its symptoms include: fever, cough and shortness of breath.The coronavirus is believed to be transmitted from person to person within close proximity or from being exposed to virus-infused droplets.

Friday March 27, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Friday March 27, 2020

GCCI eager to play role in COVID-19 National Taskforce

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xpressing its eager ness to play a role in the COVID-19 National Taskforce, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) yesterday rolled out a list of suggestions to local businesses to avoid the spread of the disease.

These include an appeal to local bars, restaurants and other businesses to limit their services, while also urging them to desist from price gouging.

Noting the new dispensation of ‘social distancing’, the GCCI release said that businesses such as restaurants, bars and similar services should discontinue ‘dine-in’ services for customers and facilitate takeout, delivery and ‘drive-thru’ options.

“Minibus and speed boat owners should sanitize their vehicles and boats after every trip and should try to maintain a three feet distance between each passenger if possible.

Employers should disseminate guidelines on sanitation and hygiene to employees and ensure that employees have access to sanitizing materials.

Businesses should not price gouge on materials needed for sanitizing and prevention of the spread of COVID-19.”

The GCCI also appealed to the public to refrain from panic buying and hoarding of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and sanitizing

-urges bars, restaurants and other businesses to limit their services materials, since this would limit availability for essential personnel who are on the frontlines of fighting the

spread of COVID-19.

“The GCCI is concerned about the preparations being made to reduce the spread of the virus once Local Transmission occurs in Guyana.

In order to do this, we need to change our behavioural patterns and adopt the approach known as Social Distancing.”

“To this end, the GCCI welcomes the preparations by the Ministry o f P u b l i c Health (MoPH) and is ready, willing and able to assist the MoPH in its efforts to increase its resources to effectively fight COVID-19,” the GCCI added. Meanwhile, the Chamber said that it notes the press conference that was recently held by the MoPH. “The Honourable Volda Lawrence mentioned that four persons were put in mandatory isolation, and one (1) person is of national interest.

She also mentioned that the Ministry is working within the Eight (8) Pillars Framework from the World Health Organization (WHO). Moving ahead, the GCCI would like to see a convening of the first meeting of the COVID-19 National Taskforce which it was invited to participate in, so that the GCCI can relay information to its members as well as give feedback to the Taskforce’s coordinated response to the virus,” the Chamber noted.

It continued, “Whilst waiting for directions from the National Authorities, the GCCI encourages members of the business community and the general public to voluntarily practice social distancing. The GCCI also offers the following recommendations: avoid large gatherings - there should be no congregation of people in groups of more than 15 persons ; e m p l o y e r s should encourage employees to work from home/ telecommute where possible; the public should remain calm and refrain from panic buying and hoarding of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and sanitizing materials, which limits availability for essential personnel who need the materials and are on the frontlines of fighting the spread of the infection,” the GCCI added.

Dire sanctions will befall GECOM ...

From page 8 the potential economic damage from the disease has the entire country of around 30 million on edge.

But even before the virus’ outbreak, the Associated Press noted that Venezuela’s oil industry was on its knees.

In this regard, it noted that severe sanctions applied last year by the Trump administration nearly halved oil production and worsened a humanitarian crisis that has pushed nearly five million people to flee the country.

Compounding that, is the fact that the country will have to contend with oil prices at a multi-year low amid a melt-

down in oil markets that followed Saudi Arabia’s decision to flood the market to retaliate against Russia’s refusal to go along with a proposed OPEC production cut. Making matters worse, most of the added supply from Saudi Arabia is of the same heavy crude variety that Venezuela produces, the Associated Press reported.

RAPID FINANCING INSTRUMENT The IMF had set up the rapid financing instrument in 2011 as a one-time, short-term loan aimed at helping low-income countries absorb shocks like natural disasters.

The amount a country can re-

quest is restricted to 100% of the country’s quota at the IMF—about $5 billion in Venezuela’s case—and is supposed to be less comprehensive than traditional loans.

However, countries with debt levels the IMF deems unsustainable are barred from taking out loans.

The Associated Press noted that such could be the case of Venezuela, which has defaulted on more than $65 billion in bonds and owes billions more to Russia, China and dozens of foreign energy companies whose assets it expropriated over the past two decades.

The Associated Press also noted that Venezuela is believed to be the first country to try to tap the $50 billion in financing the IMF has available to help developing nations deal with the virus.

It said that the U.S., which is the biggest shareholder and has a veto over major decisions at the Washingtonbased lender, has balked at assisting a Maduro government it no longer recognizes and accuses of stealing billions from its own people.

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Friday March 27, 2020

Giftland to close from Wednesday

The Mall will be closed from Wednesday but its supermarket will remain open.

The iconic Giftland Mall at Turkeyen has announced temporary closure from Wednesday, April 1, 2020.

“This closure is due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic which has placed our country and the world in unprecedented times. Given that the main counter against the spread of the virus is social distancing, the Mall will be closing temporarily in the interest of its staff and customers,” said Roy Beepat, Chairman of the Giftland Group.

The actions would be in sync with several other businesses which have been

closing their doors as Guyana attempt to deal with the fallouts of the pandemic.

However, according to Beepat, the FoodMaxx Supermarket will remain open to facilitate basic shopping needs for customers. “Customers will be required to abide by the guidelines enforced in-store by the FoodMaxx Supermarket to combat the spread of the virus.”

The businessman said that management of FoodMaxx has advised that the pricing structure will remain the same throughout this period. “However, our

prices may increase if the cost of these items increases, as the main aim is to serve its customers and there is no overpricing of any basic commodities, which continues to reflect standard pricing, this practice is the hallmark of the Giftland Group commitment to our public.”

At the Mall, all ATMs will be accessible unless indicated otherwise by the respective banks, Beepat said.

“We also advise that Shoppers Pharmacy will also be opened with us to supply essential products. The opening hours will remain at 10:00am - 7:30pm”

CXC offers modified exams in light of COVID-19 The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) is assuring that it stands in solidarity with the region and the international community as the people grapple with the impact of COVID-19 on the way of life.

“During the past two weeks, we have been monitoring developments across the CARICOM region and working closely with representatives from the Ministries of Education and tertiary institutions to arrive at a regional consensus for the administration of May/ June 2020 examinations.”

The Council said it recognises the impact of COVID-19 on the education system in general and, more specifically, on the schedule of CXC’s regional examinations.

“Accordingly, the Council has proposed a revised examinations strategy to yield valid grades and minimize the disruption to the education system during these unprecedented times.”

These, CXC said, include a modified examination process which will see the administration of at least one common paper (Multiple Choice Assessments); School Based Assessments

(SBAs) and Paper 032s (Alternative to SBA) for private candidates; and the awarding of final grades based on the moderated SBAs and Multiple Choice Papers.However, candidates will be required to complete additional components for

higher education or to access employment. This also minimises disruption to the 2020/2021 academic year.”

According to CXC, while the proposed revised administration schedule for the May/June 2020 examinations is July 2020, it continues to be guided by

Modern Languages (Spanish, French and Portuguese); Human and Social Biology and Visual Arts.“This strategy will employ the e-Testing modality (online and offline) in order to reduce the examinations administration processing time resulting in the shortest turn-around time for marking and the release of examination results. In addition, it will provide an opportunity for the timely presentation of grades to facilitate matriculation to

national protocols across the region.“Students and teachers are encouraged to utilise the CXC Learning Hub – our e-Learning platform that provides learners and instructors with a single access point to multiple resources geared towards exam preparation is available at: learninghub.cxc.org.”

CXC assured that as the Management and Staff of the Council continue to monitor the emerging situation, its first priority is the health and wellbeing of all stakeholders.

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Friday March 27, 2020

Brooklyn High School Principal, 36, dies from Coronavirus (The New York Times) Dez-Ann Romain, principal of the Brooklyn Democracy Academy, a public high school, always kept her office neat and freshened with new flowers, and kept the school decorated with inspirational quotes.

“She was one of the most innovative school leaders I’ve ever worked with — her students just adored her,” said Courtney Winkfield, a New York City schools official who mentored Romain.

Romain died Monday from complications of the coronavirus — the first known death of a New York City public school staff member from the virus.

As of Tuesday, there were 15,597 confirmed coronavirus cases in New York City, with 192 deaths connected to the disease.

While authorities warn that there will be many more fatalities from the virus, Romain’s struck a chord — the early death of a prominent New Yorker who has touched many people’s lives.

Ronda Phillips, 48, principal at Kappa V High School, which uses the same building as the academy, is also hospitalized, school officials said.

Romain’s death drove home what authorities have been warning all along, that the virus does not just kill the old and medically frail. As of now, only five people under the age of 45 in New York City have died from the virus.

“She was a healthy, vibrant, energetic 36-year-old woman who had one of the toughest jobs anybody could have, and she did it with resilience,” Winkfield said.

Schools Chancellor Rich-

ard Carranza sent a letter to the academy community Monday night notifying them of Romain’s death.

In a statement, Carranza called Romain’s death “painful for all of us” and offered condolences to the academy community and to Romain’s family.

Romain was in her fourth year leading the academy, a transfer school for students who were challenged by traditional high schools.

School officials said that she last reported to school March 12, after which the school was deep-cleaned and disinfected on a daily basis.

She had begun to feel ill and was hospitalized March 18 for pneumonia, school officials said. A day later, the academy notified its community that there was a self-reported COVID-19 case in the school, officials said.

Dez-Ann Romain, 36, principal of the Brooklyn Democracy Academy

Mark Treyger, a Brooklyn city councilman who chairs the council’s education committee, called Romain’s death devastating and said Mayor Bill de Blasio had placed students, teachers and the staff at risk by failing to close schools more quickly as the

virus began spreading in the city. Treyger also faulted city officials for failing to require principals to inform their communities of positive cases in individual schools.

“By failing to disclose virus cases in schools, they kept families in the dark and

COVID-19 concerns force countrywide cancellation of Friday prayers at Masjids The Guyana Islamic Trust (GIT) and the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) have announced the cancellation of Friday Congregational Prayer at Masjids as a precaution from the possible spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In our previous advisories, we, the GIT and the CIOG, have called for social distancing at all levels as much as possible and that people should desist from going about their social activities as per normal, in an effort to prevent the spread of the COVID19 virus. We also advised that Masjids should put all classes, programmes and prayers on hold until further

notice,” a release stated yesterday.

“It is with extremely heavy hearts that we now further advised that Salatul Jumu’ah (the Friday Congregational Prayer) be cancelled at the Masjids until further notice, and instead, Salatuz Zuhr (4 Raka’aat) be established at home.”

“We have taken the arguments for and against this issue, and it is our belief that preference should be given to warding off the potential harm to health and life over gaining the benefits of performing the Salatul Jumu’ah at the Masjid.“We acknowledge that Salatul Jumu’ah is an obligation on mature Muslim

males under normal circumstances, but also that this obligation can be waived in such cases as heavy rain, travel, sickness, fear for one’s personal well-being or that of his family or wealth, etc.

Taking precautions against a pandemic of this sort is obviously a more serious and compelling reason than some of the above and therefore must be treated with the seriousness it deserves.”

“In fact, to be complacent in this regard would be considered blameworthy Islamically, since Allah, SWT, instructs us in the Quar-aan: ‘…and do not throw (yourselves) with your own hands into destruction...”

left more lives at risk,” Treyger said.

Jane Meyer, a spokeswoman for de Blasio, called Treyger’s claim “absolutely false” and said “the health and safety of our students and staff have been the sole driver of every decision made by the mayor and chancellor.”

Miranda Barbot, a Department of Education spokeswoman, said the department was directed to close schools when the city’s health department confirmed a case, “and we immediately did that for the one confirmation we received while school was still in session.”

“The city has been at community transmission for over a week, and it’s impossible to trace the source of exposure,” she said. “But as of March 13, the city’s health department advised that a positive case in the school or workplace environment did not put others at higher risk than did anywhere else in the city.“Regardless, we have been deep cleaning buildings daily,” she added, “and supporting schools in notifying their communities of self-confirmed cases.”Colleagues described Romain as an organized administrator who had an incredible rapport with, and concern for, her school’s largely African American student body and for Brownsville, the neighborhood where the school is.

She “just loved being principal,” said Winkfield, a senior strategy and policy adviser at the Department of Education’s Office of Equity and Access.

“She looked at every single kid as her personal mission,” she said. “She knew every kid’s backstory, their family members, what was going on with them and how to motivate them.”

Romain secured funding to create a hydroponic gardening lab at the school, and she planned on turning the program into a farmers market for local residents.

She partnered with sports companies to get athletic equipment for her students and was instrumental in helping many students get basketball scholarships to college, Winkfield said

Friday March 27, 2020

‘Virtual’ WNBA Draft to be held April 17 as scheduled Reuters - The “virtual” WNBA Draft will go on as scheduled April 17 with precautions in place to minimize health risks during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s announcement of all picks will air live on ESPN2. Top prospects will take part remotely, a plan similar to what has been disclosed by the NFL for its player draft six days later.

“The WNBA draft is a time to celebrate the

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Kaieteur News

exceptional athletes whose hard work and dreams are realized with their selections in the draft,” Engelbert said in a statement Thursday.

“Safeguarding the health and well-being of our prospects, players, employees, and everyone connected to our game as well as the general public is paramount. With that in mind, we will work diligently with our broadcast partner, ESPN, to create a memorable but virtual event that appropriately honors these accomplished

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert athletes.”

Also planned during the draft are tributes to Kobe Bryant, Gianna Bryant, Alyssa Altobelli and Payton Chester, who died in a helicopter accident on Jan. 26.

Friday March 27, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You could spend much of your day advancing the interests of an organization dedicated to a cause that means a lot to you, perhaps in animal or children's rights.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) If you're single and looking for love, Libra, you may find it today in an ephemeral way. You could find yourself falling hard for the proverbial stranger across the crowded room.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) If you're single, Taurus, a new love could appear right there in your neighborhood. The person should be attractive, intelligent, free spirited, and very much attracted to you!

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Love certainly seems to make the world go round today. Is everyone around you deeply involved in a new or revitalized romance?

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today you could hold a group meeting of some kind in your home. The guests will probably include people in such interesting fields as astrology,metaphysics, environmentalism, and the arts.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Has the perfect career suddenly materialized out of nowhere, Sagittarius? If so, don't write it off as being too good to be true. It's very, very real! Take a few days to consider all your options and all possible contingencies.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Have you been reading romantic novels or watching romantic films lately, Cancer?

This is probably because love is very much on your mind now. You may be involved in a passionate relationship or hoping for one.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) A website or TV documentary could put you in touch with a promising educational or spiritual organization whose goals and aims seem to jibe perfectly with your own.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Money earned through involvement in the arts, perhaps those combining creativity with computer technology, could come your way, Leo. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Have love matters been causing you excessive strain for a while, Virgo? If so, you can expect that to end now.

Someone you love deeply reciprocates your feelings, and is very anxious to resolve any differences between you and look toward the future.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) You could have some strange, mystical dreams tonight, Aquarius, possibly involving angels or other spiritual beings. Their messages could well shed light on a romantic relationship that you might not understand well.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Social events today could put you in touch with people in the arts, Pisces, particularly ones such as film, television, recording, and computer graphics that combine creativity with modern technology.

LeBron talks about virus’ impact on NBA in podcast Field Level Media - Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James shed light on a variety of topics facing the NBA should it attempt to resume the 2019-20 season later this year. Appearing on the Road Trippin’ podcast, James expressed concerns for NBA players competing against someone who was diagnosed with the coronavirus.

“So what happens when a guy who is tested positive for corona and you’re out there on the floor with him and it’s a loose ball?” James said on the 51-minute podcast, which was hosted by former Cleveland Cavaliers teammates Richard Jefferson and Channing Frye as well as current Lakers studio host Allie Clifton.

James also expressed displeasure with the notion of playing games without fans, which likely would be the NBA’s first step back to action since it suspended the season earlier this month.

“What is the word ‘sport’ without ‘fan’?” the four-time NBA MVP asked. “There’s no excitement. There’s no crying. There’s no joy.

There’s no back-and-forth.

There’s no rhyme or reason that you want to go on the road and just dethrone the home team because of their fans and vice versa. “ That’s what also brings out the competitive side of the players to know that you’re going on the road in a hostile environment and yes, you’re playing against that opponent in front of you, but you really want to kick the

Lots of talent here, but...

From page 31 football tournaments there are Kamarang, Waramadong, Parima, Kako, Jawalla, Kaitau, Imbaimadai, Phillipai, Thimweing, District Sports Council, Isseneru, Quedang, Arau, Wax Creek, Abdou and San Juan of Venezuela.

Apart from football, Wellington indicated that the youths have a keen interest in volleyball and cricket and since acquiring their own gears is a challenge for them, he is calling on the local governing body for those sports to render assistance.

The District Sports Council is also comprised of Vice Chairman Alex Crammer, Secretary Denzil Thomas, Treasurer Deza Moses and a number of committee members including Jerol Isaacs and Deon Seecharran.

LeBron James Andrew. D. Bernstein/Getty Images fans’ (backside) too.”

While James provided tongue-and-cheek responses to how he will handle physical interaction with the fans — “I ain’t high-fiving nobody for the rest of my life after this (expletive)” — he appeared to take a more direct tone when

discussing the idea of starting the NBA playoffs upon return to action.

“One thing you can’t just do is go straight to the playoffs,” James said.

“Because it discredits the 60plus games that guys had fighting for that position.”

PAGE 26

Friday March 27, 2020

Kaieteur News

Push T20 World Cup to 2021?

ESPNcricinfo - With the COVID-19 pandemic locking the world down, the ICC, like all global sports organisations, has been busy working on contingency plans for their events this year: the men’s T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted in Australia later this year, the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) and the new ODI League - the pathway for teams to qualify for the men’s 2023 ODI World Cup - which was scheduled to start from May. E S P N c r i c i n f o understands the ICC has already started jotting down early back-up plans but these aren’t concrete yet, as the pandemic remains a fluid situation. But below are some of the options under consideration.

Will the 2020 T20 World Cup be cancelled?

As of now, the ICC is not considering what would be the worst-case scenario. But in the event that the tournament cannot take place this year, a more feasible option could be pushing the event to next year and defer the 2021 edition of the T20 World Cup, which is scheduled in India next October, to 2022.

Cricket Australia’s chief executive Kevin Roberts sounded optimistic about the event going ahead as per schedule (in Australia in October-November), but in case it does not, the biggest challenge the organisers

Rework WTC? Scrap ODI League?

CA CEO Kevin Roberts sounded optimistic about T20 World Cup going ahead as per schedule Getty Images could face will be the absence of free space to accommodate the tournament later in the year in Australia.

Immediately after the T20 World Cup, Australia are scheduled to host Afghanistan for a one-off Test in late November followed by a four-Test and three-match ODI series against India which is scheduled to stretch until January 2021.

Another option the ICC might think of exploring is utilising the gap year that is 2022 which currently does not have an ICC global event. But for that alternative, the ICC along with Cricket Australia and BCCI, the hosting boards for the next two T20 World

Cups, would need to sit down and carve out an alternate window which then would need to be synced with the larger Future Tours Programme (FTP).

What happens to the WTC? India occupy the top slot on the WTC points table, but a 2-0 defeat in New Zealand recently has thrown the race wide open. But now, many series that form part of the WTC will need to be adjusted and deferred. Bear in mind the first cycle is due to end next March, with the final scheduled at Lord’s in June.

What happens if there is not enough time to accommodate all the series each of the nine teams are supposed to play

(six each)?

Will the top two teams, in terms of WTC points table currently, play the final when cricket resumes? Or should the WTC model be reworked to restore parity? It will not be easy given several teams have barely played one series so far under the WTC. Should the WTC final then be deferred to allow all teams play equal number of series to stand an equal chance to make the summit? That would have implications for the second edition of the WTC which was meant to be played from 2021-23. More likely, the current FTP, which runs until 2023, will need to be re-looked at in its entirety.

What about the Cricket World Cup Super League scrap it?

The ODI Super League is scheduled to be played between May 1 this year and March 31, 2022, serving as the qualification pathway for the 2023 World Cup. There are 13 teams, including the 12 Testplaying countries along with Netherlands, who will play eight series over a two-year cycle on a home-and-away basis against mutually-agreed opponents.

The Super League was put in place to add context to ODI cricket.

The administrators will need to decide if it should be postponed altogether, or

reduce the number of series when cricket resumes.

The most drastic step, which cannot be ruled out, is doing away with the Super League. In such a scenario the qualification process for the 2023 World Cup would need to be reworked.

When will the ICC decide on these matters?

There is no cut-off date yet chalked out by the ICC. The issue is listed on the agenda for the ICC quarterly meetings scheduled for May 8 to 10, potentially in Dubai based on government regulations, when the chief executives committee and the ICC board are scheduled to meet in person.

Coronavirus is a threat to young people too, U.S. official Fauci tells NBA star Curry Reuters - Some young and healthy people in the United States who have contracted the new coronavirus are becoming seriously ill, the top U.S. official on infectious diseases, Anthony Fauci, told NBA star Stephen Curry in an interview yesterday.

Many falsely believe the virus, which has killed more than 1,000 people in the United States, is only a threat to the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, Fauci told the basketball player in a live interview aimed at reaching a younger audience via social media.

While it is true that the elderly and those suffering from conditions like lung disease and diabetes have a far greater risk of dying, some young people who have contracted it have

also become very sick, he said.

“What we are starting to see is that there are some people who are younger, people your age - young, healthy, vigorous - who don’t have any underlying conditions who are getting seriously ill,” Fauci said.

“It’s still a very, very s m a l l m i n o r i t y, b u t i t doesn’t mean that young people like yourself should say, ‘I’m completely exempt from any risk of getting seriously ill,’” Fauci told the 32-year-old Golden State Warriors guard.

He stressed that young people need to adhere to social distancing and other steps designed to slow the spread of the virus both to protect themselves and to p r e v e n t o t h e r, m o r e vulnerable people from contracting it.

“You need to protect

yourself because you are not completely exempt from serious illness,” he said. And you can become the vector, or the carrier of infection, where you get infected, you feel well and then you inadvertently and innocently pass it on to y o u r g r a n d f a t h e r, y o u r grandmother or an uncle who is on chemotherapy for cancer.” That’s what we’ve got to be careful of.”

The Centers for Disease Control on Thursday said that 38% of U.S. coronavirus patients sick enough to be hospitalized were between the ages of 20 and 54.

The pandemic has upended everyday life in much of the United States and brought professional sports leagues, including the NBA, to a halt. Asked when leagues may be able to return to action, Fauci said it will depend on how quickly the United States can slow the rate of infection.

Dr. Anthony Fauci

Friday March 27, 2020

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

The rise of the Caribbean in the Gold Cup Miami, Florida – Concacaf is using this time to reflect on the history of the Confederation’s competitions, including its premier national team tournament, the Concacaf Gold Cup. Throughout the history of the Gold Cup since its inception in 1991, the winner’s circle has been dominated by Mexico and the United States, with challenges from various Central American countries like Honduras, Costa Rica and Panama, who have all reached a Gold Cup final.

Yet in recent Gold Cups, there has been a noticeable shift, as the Caribbean region has started to make waves in the tournament. It started in the 2015 Gold Cup, as four teams from the

Caribbean region reached the quarterfinal round, which included an all-quarterfinal match-up between Jamaica and Haiti, won by the Reggae Boyz, 1-0.

Jamaica used that

momentum in their semifinal against the United States to post a first-ever win against the U.S. on U.S. soil, 2-1, on goals from Darren Mattocks and Giles Barnes. It was a historical win in that Jamaica

became the first ever Caribbean nation to reach a Gold Cup Final, where they fell 3-1 to Mexico.

However, some history was made in that match as well, with Mattocks becoming

the first Caribbean player to score in a Gold Cup Final with his goal in the 78’. Two years later in the 2017 Gold Cup, Jamaica would once again prove to be a headache for a Gold Cup giant. This time it was Mexico who was put to the sword, as Kemar Lawrence’s memorable freekick goal in the 88’ earned the islanders a 1-0 win.

Misfortune befell Jamaica in the Final though, as Golden Glove winning GK Andre Blake had to leave the Final against the U.S. with an injury.

In the end, the U.S. would emerge with a 2-1 win to claim the trophy.

However, it was at the 2019 Gold Cup that other teams from the Caribbean started to get people’s attention. Haiti was the revelation of the tournament

by finishing in first place in their group thanks to a comeback 2-1 win over Costa Rica before rallying from a 2-0 deficit to defeat Canada in the quarterfinals, 3-2.

Les Grenadiers also came within a crossbar of equalising in extra time against Mexico in the semifinal in a very narrow 10 defeat. Also in the 2019 Gold Cup, Curacao reached the quarterfinals in just their second Gold Cup, falling bravely 1-0 to the U.S., while Jamaica once again made another deep run before a 31 defeat to the U.S. in the semifinals.

With Martinique and Bermuda also posting group stage wins, plus a first ever point for Guyana, it is safe to say that the Caribbean is on the rise in the Gold Cup.

CWI Vice President gives administration passing grade Bridgetown, Barbados, CMC – Cricket West Indies (CWI) vice president Dr. Kishore Shallow has given the organization’s administration a passing grade for its first year in office, pointing to improvements in just about all areas of the 10point plan which the Ricky Skerritt-led team had used as a platform for election.

Among the biggest achievements, Dr. Shallow said, have been an improvement in team selection which has boosted players’ confidence in getting a fair chance to represent West Indies, and a better relationship with CWI stakeholders.

Last March, the SkerrittShallow team defeated incumbent Dave Cameron and his running mate Emmanuel Nathan to take over the CWI leadership.

They had presented a ‘Cricket First Plan’ to revitalize West Indies cricket, that promised: the creation of a cricketcentric organizational culture; optimum use of technology for greater effectiveness; increased investment in grassroots cricket; enhancement of the franchise system; modernization of coaching education; increased exposure for Under-23 and Under-19 players; re-evaluation of system of team selection; repair of stakeholder relations; decentralization of High Performance system; and utilization of regional technical expertise.

Speaking on the Mason & Guest radio show here on Tuesday night, Dr Shallow said the administration had made some progress in those areas.

Dr. Kishore Shallow - CWI Vice-President “We have touched on just about all of these points,” he said. “In West Indies cricket, over the years, we have had quite a few hurdles that we have to jump over and bearing all that in mind, I think we have done a fairly good job for the last 12 months.”

Among the areas he gave his team kudos for was revamping the selection process. “This is one of the successes,” he said. “We have seen players have increased confidence in our system again and players believe that they are now selected more on merit and are putting up their hands, as Jermaine Blackwood, as Hayden Walsh, and other players have done.”

Dr. Shallow also saw the CWI’s utilization of regional experts as an accomplishment. Seven months after the new administration took office, Phil Simmons, who had been sacked by the Cameron-led

CWI, was brought back as West Indies head coach.

That, said Dr Shallow, plus the inclusion of other former cricketers Floyd Reifer, Kenny Benjamin, Gus Logie and Courtney Walsh in the coaching staff, and the involvement of Joel Garner, Brian Lara and Ramnaresh Sarwan in West Indies camps last year demonstrated the CWI’s commitment to improving the game.

Addressing the modernization of the coaching system, he pointed out that CWI had hired a specialist in development coaching, Australian Chris Brabazon, as its first-ever coach education manager.

The former Western Australian Cricket Association coach development manager signed a three-year deal and began work last December.

“He has been making some progress so far,” Dr. Shallow said. The CWC vice

president also pointed to improved relationships with players, regional governments and the media, saying, “all of our stakeholders are equally important to us”.

Speaking specifically about the promise to create a cricket-centric organizational

culture, he said CWI has been able to fulfill its promise to move players “to the top of the priority ladder”.

He said while the fouryear cricket calendar would be affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic that has forced cancellations and postponements in the sport, CWI now “has a guide to work with”.

Dr. Shallow also pointed to CWI’s increased use of technology: “We have been using Zoom and the Internet generally, to facilitate meetings and reduce our expenses, being more cost effective. We have a selection analyst being more analytical,” he reported.As for increased investment in grassroots, he said that was a work in progress.

“We have started the dialogue with the governments across the region and what we are saying is ‘let us hold hands in improving cricket, in developing grassroots cricket’ and we expect them to invest as Cricket West

Indies intend to do, but we have to do this together. And, quite frankly, they’ve been quite receptive to the idea. We have had a few discussions with Prime Ministers across the region and we intend to have a meeting with the other Prime Ministers at some point over the next two months,” he said.

Addressing the enhancement of the franchise system, the vice president said one of the achievements has been getting players at that level to realize that they are professionals and to understand what is expected of them as far as fitness was concerned.

“We have seen an improved fitness. They have been responding positively to the call of fitness,” Dr. Shallow said. The number two at CWI said the organization was fully committed to doing what it was voted in to do.

“We continue to address all the items on our 10-point plan and we are using this as a guide to ensure that we keep performing,” he said.

International Cricket Council opens up archive of classic matches BBCsport - Footage of classic cricket matches has been made available for fans who are isolating because of coronavirus. Video of International Cricket Council events dating back to the 1975 World Cup will be available to broadcasters.

Highlights and tournament recaps will be shown on the ICC’s social

media channels and there will be ‘Watch Parties’ of iconic games. ICC chief Manu Sawhney said: “The need to connect with our fan communities is perhaps greater than ever.”

Video will be available from men and women’s 50over and T20 World Cups, as well as the Champions Trophy and Under-19 World

Cups. There will also be a behind the scenes film from the 2019 men’s World Cup, which England won in a thrilling finale at Lord’s.

“We hope this move will help our broadcast partners and give cricket fans the opportunity to relive some of the great cricketing moments,” chief executive Sawhney added.

PAGE 28

Guyanese makes U.S. U-19 hockey team

By Calvin Chapman Overseas based Guyanese student-athlete; Ethan Skeete, who recently made the cut to represent the United States of America (USA) under-19 male hockey team, during an interview with Kaieteur Sport, announced that although he wants to play the sport at the highest level, he would love to come back home one day and be involved with the game locally.

The 16-year-old junior at Washington Liberty High in the state of Virginia, left the shores of the ‘land of many waters’ two years, he had attended Saint Stanislaus College (SSC); the school that fostered his passion for hockey.

Skeete recounted, “On my first day of school (SSC), during orientation, Robbie (Robert Fernandes) came up to me and encouraged me to play. I decided to give it a go and I haven’t looked back since then. I really should thank Robbie and Saints Hockey Club because that’s where I started and I am proud of where I am today although much more work is needed if I’m to reach my goals.”

Fernandes; a Level III certified Hockey Coach and Physical Education teacher at SSC, when questioned on his first encounter with Skeete explained that, “Every year we do a presentation and some demonstrations at first form orientation to encourage youngsters to take up sports

Ethan Skeete and Skeete gravitated to hockey.”

“His hard work and dedication needs to be highlighted. It takes a lot of courage and self-confidence to play field hockey in the U.S. because in that society field hockey is considered a women’s sport.

There are no male scholarships offered at university for the sport which means he had to persevere despite those challenges and social stereotypes to achieve what he has so far. It is something he should be very proud of, I’m definitely very proud of him.”

Like all sportspersons

worldwide, Skeete’s season has come to a premature end due to the Coronavirus pandemic. The lad plays with three different hockey outfits, namely the Washington Field Hockey Association, DC Dragons and Band of Brother FHC but he explained what hurts the most is not being able to play at the national level after making the U.S. under-19 team since last November.

Skeete plays defence in outoor field hockey while he favours getting forward in the indoor version of the game but he noted that it doesn’t matter what position he is in, he loves hockey.

Indy 500 postponed until August because of coronavirus pandemic BBCsport The Indianapolis 500, the USA’s most prestigious race, has been postponed until 23 August as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where average lap speeds exceed 230mph, is traditionally held on the last Sunday in May. It is the latest major motorsport event to be affected by coronavirus. The first eight Formula 1 races have been called off and the Le Mans 24 Hours delayed until September. The Indy 500 is the biggest race on the US motorsport calendar, and attracts around 300,000 spectators.

This year, interest will be increased by the presence of two-time F1 champion Fernando Alonso. The 38year-old Spaniard is making his third attempt at the event, and if he wins would become only the second man in history to win motorsport’s ‘triple crown’ of Monaco

Friday March 27, 2020

Kaieteur News

FIFA to reform soccer “By Taking A Step Back”, Says Infantino Soccerex - FIFA president Gianni Infantino has indicated that soccer’s global governing body is prepared to “reform world football by taking a step back” after the coronavirus pandemic.

Soccer leagues around the world have been brought to a standstill in an attempt to contain the spread of the virus, while this summer’s UEFA 2020 European Championship and the CONMEBOL Copa America national team tournaments have also been postponed.

The delays are likely to lead to a cluttered calendar once it is eventually deemed safe to resume play, with a number of leagues intent on finishing their 2019/20 domestic seasons. Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Infantino said that a number of steps will need to be taken to help soccer avoid a financial crisis in the wake of the pandemic, which could include cutting back on the number of games and tournaments being played.

“An assessment of the global economic impact is needed. It’s difficult right now, we don’t know when it will return to normal,” Infantino told Gazzetta dello Sport. “But we look at the opportunities. We can perhaps reform world football by taking a step back. With different formats. Less tournaments, but more interesting. Maybe fewer teams, but more balanced.

Less games, to protect the

Gianni Infantino - FIFA President health of the players, but more competitive.

“It’s not science fiction, let’s talk about it. We quantify the damages, let’s see how we can cover them, we have to make sacrifices. The ones who managed their ‘company’ in a healthy way, will benefit – then we start again.”

“Not from scratch, we are privileged. But let’s all save football together, from a crisis that risks being irreversible.”

Infantino’s comments come after FIFA last week established a working group to combat the issues facing soccer as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, including the international fixture calendar and complications around player contracts.

FIFA, which has made a US$10 million contribution to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Covid-

19 Solidarity Response Fund, has already proposed to move next year’s inaugural 24-team Club World Cup, which otherwise would have clashed with the rescheduled Euro 2020 and Copa America.

With regards to when soccer might get back underway, Infantino said federations and leagues will “follow the recommendations of the governments and WHO”, the latter of which FIFA is also working with to raise awareness about how to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

“Health comes first, then everything else,” Infantino added. “For the managers, the rest means hoping for the best but also preparing for the worst.

Without panicking, let’s stay it clearly: we will play again when we can do it without putting anyone’s health at risk.”

CFU inks sponsorship deal with Joma

Simon Pagenaud won the 2019 edition of the Indy 500 Grand Prix, Le Mans and Indy 500.

Indianapolis owner Roger Penske, a legendary figure in US motorsport for the success of his Indycar teams over the last 50 years, said: “The month of May at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is my favourite time of year, and like our fans, I am disappointed that we have had to reschedule the Indianapolis 500.

“However, the health and safety of our event participants and spectators is

our top priority, and we believe that postponing the event is the responsible decision with the conditions and restrictions we are facing.”

The Indy 500 runs over more than a week, with a series of practice sessions leading up to a two-day qualifying period that takes place the weekend before the race.

The plan for the rescheduled event is to have practice on 12-14 August, followed by qualifying on 1516 August.

Bridgetown, Barbados – The Caribbean Football Union (CFU) and Joma Caribbean/CAS have signed a sponsorship deal that will see Joma partnering with the regional organisation for the next two years and seven months, in the first instance, as the official uniform and equipment supplier.

CFU General Secretary Camara David hailed the agreement as an important

and positive development for the 31-member regional organisation.

“The CFU is pleased to have Joma Caribbean/CAS, a leader in the market, onboard with us.

We welcome them to our football family and look forward to a fruitful partnership,” David said.

Joma Caribbean Regional Manager Luigui Mantovani said the sponsorship, which

increases Joma’s footprint in the global football market, will redound to the benefit of the CFU. “Joma is very honored and happy with this important partnership with CFU. Joma knows this alliance would be a benefit to satisfy the Caribbean Football Union and teams with top quality garments and equipment,” Mantovani said.

Friday March 27, 2020

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup

Indian icon Bembem Devi relishing global spotlight FIFA - The most prominent figures in Indian football have described her as “a living legend” and “a flagbearer” for the women’s game.

But there is a moniker that has stuck more closely to Oinam Bembem Devi: ‘Durga of Indian Football’. As Bembem Devi herself explains, there can be no higher praise. “Durga is a [Hindu] goddess celebrated all over India to rejoice in the triumph of good over evil,” she said, smiling, “so I didn’t know how to react to being given that name. That someone could be nicknamed ‘Durga’ for playing football was a huge inspiration, and an honour.”

The grandness of the title reflects the esteem in which Bembem Devi is held, and the influence she carries. A beloved former India captain, she began her international career at the tender age of just 15 and remained a standout until her retirement in 2016, inspiring the team to new heights along the way.

Her service was recognised by the national government with an Arjuna Award, for outstanding achievement in sport, and more recently when she became the first women’s footballer to be named a

Former women’s team captain and the ‘Durga’ of #Indian Football, Bembem Devi will be conferred the Padma Shri award.

Padma Shri – India’s fourthhighest civilian honour. But like so many other pioneering female figures, her early steps in the beautiful game were fraught with difficulties.

Though drawn to football by “the simplicity of the sport, and the joy in kicking the ball”, she found herself forced

AP Invitational suspended

The Aliann Pompey Invitation (API) has been suspended following the announcement of the new date for the Olympics by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This year’s AP Invitation was originally schedule for June 4, at the National Track and Field Centre.

Given the fact that this year’s API forms part of the World Athletics Continental Tour for the calendar year and is a major part of the preparation for athletes looking to qualify for Tokyo 2020 (now postponed to 2021), we want to ensure that the event offers athletes from around the world, the best possible way, without hindrance, a chance to make their Olympic dream true.

The IOC announced the postponement of the Games to take place no later than a year from the scheduled date and as such, API wants to leave the door open to the possibility of having the meet, should the Games be sometime sooner than next summer.

Nonetheless, API will follow the lead of World Athletics, CONSUDATLE, National Sports Commissions (NSC) and the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), adhere to the requirements and recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as regional and local health officials; joining the rest of the sporting world battling the dreadful COVID-19 pandemic.

to change her name – ‘Bobo’ and ‘Amko’ were favourite pseudonyms – to play with the local boys. “Had I told them my name was Bembem they would have understood I was a girl and not taken me in their team to play,” she explained.

Her parents’ attitude

represented an equally significant barrier. “One needs to understand the socio-cultural context to understand their mindset,” she said.

“They wanted me to concentrate on my studies. At that time, I disagreed with them. But now when I look

back and try to see things from their perspective, I understand.

“It meant extra work for me because I had to compensate for lost time studying, as there was no way I would give up football.

I had to balance both. It was tough. But eventually the ice melted a bit, when I first made it to the Indian national team.

There were smiles all over, and once I scored for India, there was no looking back.

“I feel I have been able to show girls that they should follow their dreams. But at the same time they shouldn’t be rebels and fight against the wishes of their parents – you need to find that balance. But if I have been able to inspire even 11 girls to play the sport, I feel I have played my part.”

There will certainly be noone prouder when 11 Indian girls line up on the world stage for the first time this November.

That is when the country will host the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, and Bembem Devi’s only regret is that she isn’t young enough to take the field herself.

“When I was a player, I couldn’t even dream that my country would host a World Cup like this,” she said. “The girls are so lucky - sometimes

I get a bit jealous [laughs]!

The confidence, the interest, the development, the inspiration will all come from this tournament. And then the sky is the limit.

“I can’t express in words how happy I was when I heard we would be hosting this tournament, and I need to praise the AIFF for bringing it to India. It shows how serious they are about developing women’s football.”

Bembem Devi also has first-hand knowledge of the team that will be entrusted with defending Indian honour at the U-17 finals, having acted as its assistant coach in recent years.

“They are an ambitious bunch of girls who are willing to work like anything,” she said. “Commitment-wise, they are ready to make inroads. They are also training under Thomas Dennerby, and I’m sure everyone in the game understands that Mr. Dennerby knows a thing or two about women’s football.”

When it comes to experts, it takes one to know one. And if India’s experienced Swedish coach has any questions about women’s football in his adopted country, he knows there is a Durga ready and willing to lend a hand.

Athletes’ Commission statement on postponement of Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games

The World Athletics Athletes’ Commission (Philippe Fitte) © Copyright The World Athletics Athletes’ Commission welcomes the decision from the Japanese Government and the IOC to postpone the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games to 2021.

We believe that this decision not only provides the clarity that athletes were seeking in these trying times but also allows athletes to focus on staying healthy and helping combat this unprecedented global health

crisis.

We understand that many questions remain unanswered, and as we move forward, we will continue to work closely with World Athletics and other athlete groups in our sport to provide answers to those questions.

To that end, we have begun working with World Athletics to explore the possibility of providing athletes with competition opportunities this year,

provided that it is safe to do so. Additionally, we expect to be part of the review process of the current Olympic qualification system, and will ensure that athletes’ concerns are taken into consideration before any amendments to that system are implemented.

At this time, we ask athletes to follow the recommendations of their governments and health authorities by staying home and practicing social

distancing to safeguard the health of those around them.

Together we can be part of the solution, and when the time comes, be the beacons of inspiration through athletics that our world will need.

To all athletes, we encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns you might have. We are here to listen. We hope to see you around a track soon.

Stay safe, stay home.

PAGE 30

Friday March 27, 2020

Kaieteur News

GABBFF muscles weakened due to COVID – 19

By Franklin Wilson Muscles that were pumped up and ready to flex on stage in a competitive and entertaining way have now been deflated, not by choice but by design as the Coronavirus that has rocked the world have taken its toll on the sport of bodybuilding.

The Guyana Amateur Body Building and Fitness Federation (GABBFF), like other sports associations and federations would have to endure its fair share of setbacks as next month’s Intermediate and Mr. Berbice Classic which were scheduled for the Ancient County have been called off.

Athletes would have to prepare themselves over a couple of months at least to be in tip top shape for competition but COVID – 19 has had the final say in making the return of the sports to Berbice not possible, at least for this year.

GABBFF President, Keavon Bess spoke with Kaieteur Sport about the impact this world pandemic would have on the sport this year even as the Federation had grand plans.

At least there would have

Keavon Bess - GABBFF President been some positives for the year as the body was able to run off, successfully so, the GABBFF Mr. Novice (won by Nicholas Albert) and Mr. Linden Classic (won by Omisi Williams) which were sponsored by Fitness Express and Samuel Hardy on Saturday February 15 last at the Lichas Hall in the Bauxite Mining Town of Linden.

The sport made a grand return to Linden and the fans were very appreciative on the night as they supported from start to finish. That excitement on and off the stage is now in jeopardy and might not be even possible

until the end of the year as even the Senior Nationals, which was set for July month end would be affected.

Concomitantly, regional and international championships have been affected, the IFBB being forced to cancel all of its competitions that were scheduled for March and April.

Bess informed that athletes would appreciate the current circumstances in which the world has been forced to operate in as a result of the coronavirus: “And as a result, we would not be able to do the intermediate nor the

Mr. Berbice Classic, we know that for a fact. Relative to the senior competition, we had it set for July month end, we would have been glad to do it then so that we could have prepared for CAC which is tentatively scheduled for August 27 – 30 but I rather suspect that even CAC might change their dates probably to later in the year or even cancel 2020’s competition.”

Bess noted that that has not been confirmed as the dates still remains the same for now (Aug. 27 – 30) but given all that have been taking place the world over, might very well have an impact on new dates having to be set, “We just have to wait and see how this unfolds, “ he suggested.

There is a possibility that the GABBFF marquee competition, seniors might very well be held towards the end of 2020.

“We are going to move seniors probably to the end of the year but if the situation gets worst we might have to scrap all the competitions for 2020.”

The challenge of procuring sponsorship is another hurdle that the

GABBFF, like the other federations and associations would have to face whenever the COVID -19 Pandemic is brought under control and life returns to normalcy.

“Considering the issue of going after sponsorship, with the business atmosphere now as a result, firstly, elections and now coronavirus, getting sponsors to come out of their pockets is going to be a task for us.

Even after all of this is done and brought under control, persons would still be reeling from financial hardships and businesses would still be recovering; so it’s going to be a challenge to garner sponsorship to pull off a good competition.”

Bess did however note that if things return to some semblance of normalcy in a short period of time, then seniors might be possible by year end.

“But if the situation does not change to give the athletes and us enough time to prepare, we might have to cancel competitions for the remainder of this year and come better in 2021.”

In light of all the

happenings, Bess said that he is encouraging all athletes to adhere to and practice all the necessary hygienic measures that have been prescribed by the World Health Organisation and the Ministry of Health, by extension.

“And to practice as well social distancing or for some persons physical distancing, because at this time you need some amount of social communication and social bonding to keep the sanity basically, so let’s call it physical distancing. We encourage athletes to continue to work out but in a safe and secured environment, probably at home; if you do not have all the equipment, do free hand exercising, do a lot of cardio, keep your body as strong as possible.”

Bess is also encouraging athletes to keep focused so that when these challenges are over and its time for competition, “We can bounce back and show the coronavirus that we are strong and we have conquered and we are still here, better and mightier than ever.”

Kaieteur News

Friday March 27, 2020

PAGE 31

Lots of talent here, but suitable funding needed for continuous development Upper Mazaruni DSC Chairman Wellington

By Zaheer Mohamed Chairman of the District Sports Council (DSC) of Upper Mazaruni (Region seven Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Rudolph Wellington said the area has a lot of talented young footballers, but adequate funding is need for their continuous development.

Speaking with Kaieteur Sport, Wellington informed that the youths there are very passionate about football and can go a very far way, but the necessary exposure is vital. A fact that bears witness to Wellington’s statement is the performance of the DC Caesar Fox Secondary School of Region 7 (formerly Waramadong Secondary) in schools’ tournaments, where they have consistently been in the final four.

Their brand of football has been entertaining and bears resemblance to the South American style of play, possibly because they often engage their neighbours from Venezuela in tournaments. Credit must be given to the organisers for this step, since it will enhance the development of the players in the area.

On many occasions they have outplayed their rivals in school tournaments and have won the hearts of fans and others close to the game in the city. Largely responsible for their success is the ability of the members of the District Sports Council to successfully stage tournaments.

According to Wellington, the council would stage the annual Upper Mazaruni District Games in the month of August for both male and female athletes. “Apart from football this event involves a number of disciplines including track and field, volleyball, swimming, archery, blow pipe, cricket and table tennis,” he added.

Wellington indicated that the DSC would also stage inter club tournaments at the Under-13 and senior levels for both male and female players and this usually serve as a qualifier for the District games. They have also produced several national players at the age group level.

Apart from these tournaments, the DSC would host coaching programmes for the young players there to

help with their development. “ We w o u l d r e c e i v e assistance from the Guyana Football Federation for coaching clinics and now each community has their own coach and referees, and sessions are being held for players at all levels (both male and female), from Sunday to Thursday.”

Wellington stated that the installation of lights at several venues by the Regional Democratic Council of Region seven has helped with the running-off of tournaments in a timely manner. The venues with lights are; Kamarang, Waramadong and Jawalla while the ground at Kako should be getting lights soon since that village is set to host the District games this year.

While there are lots of potential in the area, one of the biggest challenge faced, is sponsorship. Wellington informed that to host the Upper Mazaruni District games would cost over G$1,000,000. “Each club would send over 50 athletes to this event and there are usually 32 teams taking part in the various disciplines, so it is very costly especially with the transportation and meals. One drum of fuel here costs $100, 000. But due to the installation of lights at the venues, we can now runoff the games within eight days as compared to 12 days before we had access to lighting facilities.”

“This is one of the biggest games held locally, but to sustain an event of this magnitude, which helps to unearth new talent, we need the backing of not only the Government, but private businesses as well.”

Wellington said they would receive assistance from the RDC Region seven, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Office of the President and the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs.

“The business entities here should see it fit to give back to the community which will encourage the youths.

Sometimes we do get assistance from a few businesses, especially these travel services that ply this area, but it is very little, so if they can come on board in a bigger way, it will be of great help to us.”

The clubs (both male and female) that compete in (Continued on page 25)

Rudolph Wellington

One of the main venues in the Upper Mazaruni District with floodlights.

The Miss Bikini contestants at GABBFF Novice 2020! From left, winner Ashanti Conway, Christina King and Crystol Leander. Franklin Wilson photo.

rt Spo

GABBFF muscles weakened due to COVID – 19

The Overall Pose down! Mr. Novice 2020, Nicholas Albert (left) trying to out pose his colleagues from right, Fenton James, Dellon Johnson and Colin ‘Mr. Clean’ Chesney. Franklin Wilson photo.

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