Kaieteur News

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Why did Govt.

NEWS present false cap on flaring? - Dr. Vincent Adams AIETEUR

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Tuesday Edition March 09, 2021 - Vol. 14 No. 10

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

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

Price $80

Online readership yesterday, 79,466

Natural Resources Ministry gets paltry $150M for 2021 Petroleum Sector Budget p.

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- Oil & Gas Development progs. slashed by more than half

Ram adds voice to calls for transparency of oil records p.

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US CDC advises against Giftland’s Boss claims co-administration of harassment over - police say COVID-19 vaccines COVID curfew not so p.

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Suriname offers help to set up national oil company p.

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Govt. touts Natural Resources curriculum for secondary schools p.

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Protect your wealth with all your heart. Listen to Kaieteur Radio @ 11:00hrs on 99.1/99.5FM to find out! Rebroadcast

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday March 09, 2021

Giftland's Boss claims harassment over COVID-19 curfew - police say not so

By Shervin Belgrave

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iftland's boss, Roy Beepat, is of the opinion that the Georgetown police are singling out and harassing his business establishment over the COVID-19 curfew.

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) in response, however, stated that this is not the case and that its ranks are doing their job in enforcing the COVID-19 regulations.

According to the GPF, it was made aware that Beepat, the Chairman of the “Giftland Group,” had stated that the Giftland Mall and its concessions are

Giftland's boss, Mr. Roy Beepat

continuously singled out for selective enforcement and police harassment.

Beepat's statement was reportedly made after ranks arrested three bar owners of the Giftland Strip on Saturday last, for breaching the COVID-19 curfew.

GPF detailed that its ranks had turned up at the Giftland Mall around 22:10 hrs. that evening and observed that three bars were still opened for business. The time for bars to be closed, GPF noted is 21:30 hrs.

As a result, the GPF stated, the owners were arrested and later released on bail. Those individuals are expected to appear in court

on Tuesday March 16, 2021.

The Police Force also added that prior to their arrests, the bar owners of the “Giftland Strip” were given a warning by its ranks on Friday March 5, after they were observed to be breaching the curfew that evening too.

Beepat, on the on the other hand, is claiming that the police's version of the events is not true.

In statement issued yesterday by the Giftland Mall, claims were made that one of the bar owners was man handled by a rank and taken to the police station at 21:00 hrs. Giftland Mall further alleged that the bars

were closed at exactly 21:30 hrs., but police ranks turned up at 22:00 hrs. and arrested the other two bar owners for no reason at all.

It was alleged in the Giftland statement that the night after the arrests of the bar owners, police returned to ensure that the bars were closed at 21:30 hrs. while another city nightspot remained opened.

Giftland has since posted a video, along with its statement, on its Facebook page to support its allegations against the police force. The video showed cars parked in front of multiple city nightspots. A number of patrons were also seen

entering and exiting the respective buildings.

Nevertheless, the GPF insisted in its statement that it has not been selectively targeting Giftland Mall or any other business entity when enforcing the COVID19 regulations.

In fact, the GPF said that it should be noted that it has enforced these regulations on several other establishments across the capital city and the country.

The police force added too that it remains committed in the execution of its mandate of ensuring safety and security in the country in a professional, ethical and impartial manner.

Cocaine found in bones of salted fish destined for Miami

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idden inside the bones of salted fish destined for Miami, USA, ranks from the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) found 280 pieces of “plastic wrapped, pencil shaped parcels” with suspected cocaine.

According to CANU, the drug bust was made yesterday at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

During a search at the Cargo Shed, ranks proceeded to open a consignment of salted fish intended for export.

Stuffed inside the “back bones” of the fish ranks noticed the strange pencil parcel containing the suspected narcotic.

So far, CANU has managed to apprehend six suspects who might be responsible for the shipment.

The pencil wrapped parcel protruding from the backbone of the salted fish

The 280 plastic wrapped pencil shaped parcels of cocaine recovered by CANU

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 09, 2021

PAGE 03

Why did Govt. present false cap on flaring? - Dr. Vincent Adams F

o l l o w i n g admissions by ExxonMobil and Government that there is no cap of 14 billion cubic feet on flaring at the Liza Phase One operation, former Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Vincent Adams, said that a critical question to be answered is why Government was so obstinate in presenting false information to the public.

It was the Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who first uttered the figure during a press conference on February 9 when discussing flaring. He claimed that the final environmental impact assessment (EIA) included the figure as a quota for flaring.

“Most people didn't understand Exxon submitted an Environmental Impact Assessment for the project,” he had said. “The document was, from what I gathered, made public by the EPA that the EIA, which was approved by the EPA at that time and referred to by the Minister in the licence, Exxon was given an allowance to flare or to use 14 billion cubic feet of gas 14 billion!”

Government under the bus when they distanced themselves from ever saying or even implying that such an allowance existed.” “ C o n s e q u e n t l y, t h e Government had no other choice but to admit to the

Government to inform its decision-making on these critical and sensitive issues?”

At this point, Dr. Adams is of the view that as there is no allowance or cap for flaring, there should be nothing standing in the way

all now know that I was right and [Government was] “ Wewrong all along [about there being a cap on flaring].

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Former EPA Director, Dr. Vincent Adams

No one could point out where in the EIA the figure was stated.

Another newspaper had pressed Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat.

Eventually, his public relations officer, Stephon Gabriel, admitted that no such allowance was permitted.

ExxonMobil last Thursday also admitted during a press conference that there is no allowance of 14 billion cubic feet of gas to flare. Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) President, Alistair

Routledge, said that a third party came up with the figure during the phase of studies for the Liza Phase One EIA, but that it was not an allowance, merely an estimation of a volume of gas which could be flared in the first 18 months under a certain scenario. “ We l l , i t b e c a m e apparent last Thursday at Exxon's update to the press,” Dr. Adams said, “that Exxon could no longer sustain the pressure to do the impossible of showing the existence of something that didn't exist, so they threw the

Ram adds voice to calls for transparency of oil records

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aieteur News, along with other transparency advocates, has been calling for the People's Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government to release records on oil reports dating back to the beginning of oil production.

Notably, those records would assist in the conduct of independent studies on the oil revenue and what Guyana is set to collect from the sector. However, agencies like the Oil & Gas Governance Network (OGGN) and other transparency advocates, like Dr. Tulsi Singh, continue to work with insufficient data and records from the government.

Now, Attorney-at-Law and transparency advocate, Christopher Ram, is adding his voice in the calls for the government to show the willingness to share those

the serious question as to how could this have been possible with the Government to be so obstinately sticking to its guns in communicating such false information to its citizens on such a sensitive, important, and high profile

Attorney and transparency advocate, Christopher Ram same records. In a March 8 letter, Ram said, “ U n f o r t u n a t e l y, a n d disappointingly, despite its promises, our own Government has not demonstrated any willingness to disclose, leaving us to guess what the cost of production is likely to

be, and the composition of that cost.”

He continued, “Guyanese are once again left to indulge in unnecessary speculation over basic facts concerning the sector. Exxon must be feeling comfortable and reassured while the unease of Guyanese continues.”

Kaieteur News had reported that OGGN was banking on oil reports for independent analysis.

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, had committed during a February 9 press conference, that the government would make the reports available to the press. Three weeks later, the press does not have access to these reports and Kaieteur News has been given the royal run around in its attempts to access them.

“We need the production data to make the proper (continued on page 15)

But it begs the serious question as to how could this have been possible with the Government to be so obstinately sticking to its guns in communicating such false information to its citizens on such a sensitive, important, and high profile matter?

- Former EPA Head, Dr. Vincent Adams.

”

press on Saturday, that the allowance does not exist,” he said, referring to Gabriel's comment on the Natural Resources Ministry's behalf.

He said they had maintained that the allowance existed.

“Henceforth, we all now know that I was right and they were wrong all along,” Dr. Adams said, “but it begs

matter.”

The energy expert said he refuses to believe the government could be so irresponsible to be making things up.

“So then, it also begs the important question, if this type of information is not coming from Exxon, where is it coming from and who is really advising the

of government instituting penalties, as the Vice President had claimed with reference to the false cap, that the government was “hamstrung in instituting penalties”.

Dr. Jagdeo had said on February 9 that he has instructed the EPA to explore options to penalize ExxonMobil for its flaring.

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Tuesday March 09, 2021

Kaieteur News

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

Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Guyanese women have made impressive strides Yesterday Guyana joined the rest of the world to observe International Women’s Day. There is both the good and bad, of which we seek to touch upon a few areas.

In some arenas, Guyanese women have made impressive strides. We have had a woman president, albeit under peculiar circumstances, women at senior levels in the professional ranks, which includes the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force, and more and more women in the legal and medical fields, among other places. This viable presence of women extends into the private sector, especially the financial services sector. They stand as beacons for younger women with dreams of their own, with aspirations of careers and making contributions to their times and environment, while carving out a niche for themselves.

In our judicial realm, there are a number of judges in senior positions at the top of the pyramid, with the offices of Chief Justice and Chancellor of Judiciary being foremost. That is impressive. In the next breath, it is not so impressive that the two women, who hold these offices, do so in acting capacities only. That they have reached those heights is commendable in and of itself, even though they are in acting roles, which could lead anywhere. Worse yet, it is not at all impressive that these two luminous Guyanese women have been held hostage by our dirty brutish politics, and for an embarrassingly long number of years. When our political groups and their leaders make their pretty speeches about the relevance, substance, and importance of women, they would do well to remember that contradiction with what exists in this country’s judicial sector and these two women, who have proven themselves.

In our politics, women have been identified and moved up by the men in charge of the major political groups, when they are in power, to ranking positions in their cabinet, in parliament, and in party apparatus. The women have been visible and audible, sometimes very much so relative to the latter. Sometimes the selections can be traced to political pedigree, or payback for tireless political work in the trenches, or on the basis of favourable personal relationships with those who can make things happen. This is still too much an unspoken aspect of local quid pro quo in which our women pay a price in that timeless, old-fashioned manner. And last, it could be for decorative purposes. These questions may be suitable: women in Guyana are more visible, but have they progressed on the merits? Have they really progressed beyond the male mentality that is of the kitchen and barefoot?

The dark other side of Guyanese politics can be alarming when backward steps are employed by mostly male leaders.

This takes shape and substance in the domain of the public service. Women can be, and have been, moved about and denied and sent packing, to align more comfortingly with racial and political agendas. In other words, they have been victimized, and without rhyme or reason, which negates long hard fought gains. There are no clean political hands in Guyana in this regard. In this the 21st century, there is no place for the thinking and practices of the culture of 100 years ago, of that lived by our ancestors and endured uninterruptedly and uncomplainingly by our female forebears.

In our wider social environment, the reviews are mixed.

More girls are in school, and more women are pursuing higher education in various fields. In those areas, where doors were previously closed or considered only for men, they are now held wide open; or are either broken down and then trampled upon in a rush. It is but one of the handiworks of the modern women’s movement and ‘Girl Power’ in action and on the move. Many male chauvinist pigs feel threatened of being left behind. They don’t like it.

And the hardest and worst place where women have not progressed by much is in the home. It is mainly our women, who are constantly battered and brutalized physically, and then in every other possible way. On our streets, our young women are accosted and abused. The regard for women has all but vanished nowadays, with basic courtesies lacking in encounters with children, the expectant and the elderly.

When the known statistics are assembled, there are

We shall not forsake Cheddi’s sacrifice Dear Editor, Comrades of all walks of life reflect upon Our Great Founder Leader who had dedicated his passion and love towards the uplifting of our people. Even after he embraced those who in turn rejected and betrayed him, he found the strength to continue to uplift those who remained loyal to his vision for Our Great Nation. Thanks to him our people have many opportunities before them and a clear understanding of how to go forward in the quest for the betterment of all of our Comrades. We shall not forsake his sacrifice and we continue to learn from his experience.

The leadership he had given to our people continues to unite us as our ancestors were initially united in their struggle for independence.

Though hunger for power and greed has separated and led many away from the path that was set for our upliftment, his vision continues to lead those who are steadfast in what he had begun. We continue to fight for the betterment of our families, our villages, our communities, our workers and all law abiding citizens of Our Nation. The passion and principles of H.E., Dr. Cheddi Jagan, continue to lead us to fight for a stronger, united, safe and prosperous nation

that continues to progress down a path where we no longer have those amongst us that are treated unfairly and whose universal rights are not respected and protected by our country.

All Guyanese must show respect for the sacrifices made over the years by His Excellency, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, and his wife, Her Excellency, Janet Jagan. Without their presence and dedication to our nation, the voice of reason and consideration for those who were neglected due to race, economic circumstances and a belief that is rooted in the Cooperative Spirit, we would not have progressed this far

as One Nation.

Communal thought brings clearer perspective, cooperative action brings progress and a deep belief in the will of the people brings with it a nation that embraces the right to vote and with this responsibility our nation cannot neglect the voice and future of its citizens including those of its sons and daughters. For these reasons and all the fruit that His Excellency’s fight for the right to vote has brought into fruition, we must always show our respect and thanks for our Founder Leader, H.E., Dr. Cheddi Jagan.

Yours truly, Jamil Changlee

If it is positive, then I will speak and if it is negative, then that too Dear Editor, I understand that the Hon. Attorney General of Guyana, Mr. Anil Nandlall, MP, SC, spoke publicly of some presentations of mine, re. matters in our country. I am encouraged that he found time and voice to share how he and his people viewed what I articulated through different channels. I remind all fellowscontemporaries, critics, countrymen and women-that all I am doing is delivering on the kind of public service, which I returned home to embody.

The Attorney General found it pleasing to mention my name twice because of what was said or written.

First, the direct and disparaging aim taken by the opposition was held as noteworthy by the AG. A crude rendition of the AG’s

pronouncement goes like this: the coalition is so bad, that even one of their own has seen it fit to condemn it. I detect that that has caused some (perhaps much) excitement and conversation within the PPP. When that was made known to me, my response was that there is appreciation that the AG (and his own) are happy, but with this caveat: that he and his would be just as grinningly mirthful when I denounce their poor works and group.

That would be the PPP, and from the president on down, and all in between who fail to do what is right by this country’s peoples. I believe that Mr. Nandlall could be honest enough and man enough not to castigate such undistilled pungency as reeking of the partisan (then).

After all, it is what I have not shrunk from; not when contemplating the perversities of the players, as assessed.

Then, the same Mr. Nandlall was reported to be besides himself to exclaim that yours truly (someone from the devil’s side) could speak publicly, with praise incorporated, of the things that his PPP government was engaged in; and that it had to be doing good. I agree that there are some things that some of his group is doing well.

The Hon. Ministers of Social Protection and Public Works are two, who come to mind immediately. AG Nandlall (and all Guyanese) has to appreciate something on which I am adamant: I will be neither hesitant nor silent whenever and regarding

whoever is doing what is constructive for this society and its citizens. If it is positive, then I will speak. By the same token, if it is negative, then that, too, will be written and covered in scorching terms. I trust that he will remember that, and all of the PPP/C, PNC, AFC, PSC, and all the comrades, together with him.

In sum, when what is done is about country, count on me to congratulate. When it is not, expect the arsenal to assail. If there are others of similar balance, I am their ally.

If not, I distance myself. And last, if in this regard I am the only voice in the wilderness, then that is part of the public service terrain, too, that must be covered cleanly, conscientiously.

Yours truly, GHK Lall

Freddie Kissoon deserves an honour for his role in exposing electoral fraud in Guyana Dear Editor, Reference is made to “My nomination for national award is Dr. Vishnu Bisram.”

Contrary to what Mr. Ramracha pens, I believe Freddie Kissoon is very deserving of honour for his role in exposing electoral fraud in Guyana.

I am humbled by a nomination for the Order of Democracy or any other honour for my varied roles to benefit the Guyanese diaspora and the nation.

There are others who are also deserving, perhaps even more than I am.

But I must say that my fifty plus years of contributions to the Guyanese nation at home and in the diaspora was not premised on an award or national honours. I worked on behalf of the diaspora in spite of not being recognized by successive governments. If I had to wait to be honoured in order to service the nation, then I would not have performed. Government officials generally recognize friends, family, and those with whom they derive personal material benefits. I not only volunteered my service to

questions, all things considered, as to whether women have made the kind of inroads and scaled the heights at the intangible levels that they should have. That is, in the mind, in the environment, in the national culture. We harbour serious doubts on this. We place this before the Guyanese people, and say: be the judge on this one.

Guyana and her diaspora but to other people and nations as well. Various Indian organizations approached me for honours in Trinidad, Guyana, America, Canada, and India, and I declined. One must engage in selfless acts, not self-serving acts.

Regrettably, there are not too many who subscribe to the former.

Many of those who were honoured in the past were/are not deserving of any award and several individuals who contributed significantly to Guyana were never honoured.

Some bought honours; they contributed huge amounts of money to politicians and were honoured. How could anyone who participated in or condoned election rigging or served an illegal government be honoured? And where is their sense of integrity to

accept such honour? The actions of some honourees were destructive to the nation. Were/are they not ashamed? Some jumped from party to party and were honoured.

A committee should be empanelled to evaluate nominations for any honour.

Objective criteria should be established for any honour including the one now proposed by President, Irfaan Ali. A panel of professionals with integrity should be constituted to determine whether nominees have met the criteria.

My role in championing free and fair elections and democracy began with the 1968 electoral fraud and has continued till this day. I witnessed the rigging of 1973 and experienced electoral (Continued on page 6)

Tuesday March 09, 2021

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

The polarization of politics did not prevent the holding of free and fair elections Dear Editor, Looked at through the prism of Guyanese politics, what we refer to as a polarized society does not mean an absence of democracy; in fact it is that very polarization that gives expression to a more robust democracy and a climate of heightened competitiveness for party politics. The polarization of politics in Guyana did not prevent the holding of free and fair elections in fact, it demanded it.

Under these peculiar circumstances, polarization as a release valve for political tension in the day to day life of the wider Guyanese society, is not as obvious as it would be in an election season.

However, the absence of political tension during or after elections in the form of street protests should not be interpreted as a climate of political stability. At the same time, the maintenance of political stability can easily be jeopardized, if sustained efforts and hard work are not done to maintain the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals, ensure good governance, growth in the economy, end corruption, creation of job opportunities, provision of goods and services as well as the provision of a living wage for the Guyanese working people. Here in Guyana, the phenomenon of secondary tension and its pervasiveness is an underlying factor that tends to mask political stability.

In the Guyanese context, secondary tension is manifested in: prison

outbreaks; spikes in crime; a rise in occurrences of domestic violence and child abuse, mental illnesses and social malaize. In these matters, there is no polarization though cumulatively, if allowed to fester, they can contribute to political instability.

Political stability and secondary tension are factors that ought to be investigated together if an objective determination is to be made as regards the absence or presence of political and ethnic polarization in Guyana.

Polarization does not harm democracy nor does it paralyze it. In fact, polarization opens up the prospects for enhanced democracy whether it is freedom of movement, freedom of speech or freedom to peaceful protest.

While there may be isolated instances of restricting movement because of national security or public health concerns, such restrictions albeit of a temporary nature, cannot be interpreted to mean that there is an absence of fundamental freedoms in the wider society.

In polarized societies such as ours, the Judiciary is

called upon to play a critical role, it must rise and stand above the political fray and not be perceived to be in concubinage with nor contaminated by the polarized environment and establishment.

If at any time, the judiciary were to be perceived as captive of the polarized environment, that would send a strong signal indicating that Guyana has embarked on the road to being a failed state, which as matters stand, is certainly not the case.

Polarization does not mean marginalization.

Though the two are not mutually exclusive nor incompatible. They are two separate socio-political processes.

With the introduction by the colonial

powers of social structures of societies based on tribes, slavery, indentureship, ethnicity and religion, historical experience has shown that polarization and marginalization can give birth to political and social forces who champion extremist, and sometimes adventurist positions that can disrupt the peace and good order in society.

Polarization was born as a result of foreign domination.

Ironically, its birth created the conditions for the introduction of a democratic process, for example, the electoral process. It was that process that helped democratize polarization within the framework of a democracy.

Perceptive polarization amongst

Guyanese can be deceptive to the extent that it is almost non-existent in their day to day lives save and except in an election season.

It is the echo-chamber that stirs and promotes polarization, political, ethnic or otherwise. The echo chamber is largely responsible for providing a comfort level

for those who hold that their view or action is the correct way and any other view or action is not.

Lack of knowledge and a breakdown in communication facilitates polarization.

Refusing to acknowledge what each other stand for is to engage in a dialogue of the (Continued on page 6)

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Tuesday March 09, 2021

Kaieteur News

...Freddie Kissoon deserves an honour for his role in exposing electoral fraud From page 4 bullyism and intimidation with guns from armoured carriers directed at us in Ankerville protesting the electoral fraud. I left Guyana in 1977 to pursue tertiary education but that d i d n o t d e t e r me from championing democracy for the homeland. In fact, far away from the clutches of the hands of the dictator, I became more emboldened to struggle for free and fair elections in my country of birth.

At City College, in September 1987, a small group

of us, albeit all Indians, formed a club whose primary objective was the liberation of Guyana from the throes of that oppressive racist dictatorship.

Initially, our group was at odds with the left wing ACG, the PPP affiliate body. Our group was pro-America and pro-West as we recognized that without Washington’s blessings, democracy would not return to Guyana. And if any party or group ‘cuss’ America, Washington would not restore democratic governance in Guyana. Only a handful of us was committed and dedicated to

the struggle for free and fair elections in Guyana; we did it almost on a full-time basis and we spent our personal funds during those fifteen difficult years to restore democracy to the homeland. Later, our group would collaborate with the ACG and support groups of other parties such as WPA, URP, NRP, TUF, DLM, and PDM in championing the restoration of democracy in Guyana. While other groups folded up with the victory of the PPP in October 1992, our movement continued for several years longer as we sought to

institutionalize democracy in Guyana.

Several individuals from the varied support groups played significant roles in that struggle against the dictatorship. They were not as active in 2020 as I was but were concerned about the five months attempted fraud.

I worked the phones pleading with movers and shakers in Auckland, Delhi, London, Washington, Ottawa, Georgetown, the Caribbean and more. I travelled around the Caribbean a lot, conducting polls and know politicians. My role from midJanuary 2020 to August 2, 2020 in the democratic outcome of the March 2 election, that was announced mid-day on August 2, will remain a secret to protect individuals who worked behind the scenes to declare the right outcome. They trusted me. The people who I worked with in confidence saved our democracy by having the right declaration made that led to the swearing in of Irfaan Ali as President. I have no doubt about their role.

I was constantly in touch with key officials up to the morning of August 2 of expected

proceedings. There were some doubts but ‘all panned out’ well.

Several diplomats in Guyana and Prime Ministers of the region, as well as Kaieteur News (for exposure), and others, must be honoured for protecting democracy.

Among colleagues of the 1970s, I may be the only one from the 1970s who remain the most active and steadfast in that struggle to protect democracy in the homeland.

The others have largely given up hope on Guyana. I believe that everyone has redeeming qualities and that one day politicians would do everything right for the country. I don’t know when that day will arrive and if it would ever be in my lifetime.

What I have seen, heard, and experienced from some politicians is not encouraging.

Someone high up in the government called me a day after President Ali announced his intention to grant the OD, telling me that if any Guyanese deserve the OD, it would be me and that he would nominate my name. I would not hold my breath. Ravi Dev, Baytoram Ramharack, among others, are deserving of

OD for their roles up to 1992 and beyond. There is a Guyanese scholar in Washington area who also worked the phone on Mike Kozak and the State Department to issue statements against electoral fraud. Out of precaution that critics could seek his dismissal from his university of employment, he did not use his name or made his activism public. My name was used in several memos to government officials although he was the main author. His role should be acknowledged as was that of several others who approached their members of Congress to issue statements expressing concern about attempted fraud. There was also a gentleman on the East Coast, a contractor, whose name shall remain unknown, who fed me useful information about planned rigging. His information and intelligence gathering proved invaluable in counter measures to foil rigging.

Regrettably, his role in saving democracy can’t be acknowledged as his life would be endangered.

Yours truly, Dr. Vishnu Bisram

...The polarization of politics did not From page 5 deaf.

The process degenerates with the introduction of the racial and ethnic factor at every bend of the river. In the recent budget debate the government projected the country’s developmental trajectory while the opposition rejected outright the 2021 budget measures.

Under these conditions, the culture of the blame game become a convenient political tool. At the same time, little or no attention is paid to the possibility that, with free and fair elections, and with the prospects for change, the policies of a political party

may very well have a shelf life of just five years.

The loss of political power allegedly due to polarization in voting patterns and the perceived decrease in the allocation of resources can result in increased struggle by those who, in a democracy, feel a sense of social exclusion and deprivation. But the social and economic manifestations of polarization taken holistically, can bring about unity and struggle of the opposites.

In a reconstituted GECOM there are good prospects for constructive engagement between government and opposition.

At the Parliamentary level, between

1992 and 2018, approximately 436 Bills and Motions were passed without division in the National Assembly.

It seems as though for now, Parliament and GECOM are the only two institutions where good prospects exist to address the challenge of polarization not only from an institutional perspective but also for national advancement.

Bipartisan cooperation by government and opposition at these two levels can be tested and hopefully, prove to be successful in more than a hundred ways for the good of our country and people.

Yours truly, Clement J. Rohee

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L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Tuesday March 09, 2021

Kaieteur News

Now that International Women's Day is over, how many of us are still speaking out in support of the women in our lives, and amplifying our voices when people seek to silence them?

Let's see what the situation is like a week from now, or a month, when people don't have a date on a calendar to remind them to engage in virtue-signalling.

We must be supportive of our women folk everyday!

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Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Four charges for woman who verbally abused COVID relief distributor

A

Princes Street woman was yesterday dragged before the court to answer to four charges which allege that she verbally assaulted a COVID-19 relief cash grant distributor, used threatening behaviour, assaulted a TSU rank and damaged his tactical vest.

The woman, Vanessa Gonsalves, 38, a vendor of Lot 45 Princes Street, Georgetown, made her first court appearance before Principal Magistrate, Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus. She denied all four charges and the matter adjourned to April 19, 2021.

The first charge alleges that on March 5, 2021, at Russell Street, Charlestown,

she displayed threatening behaviour towards Alicia Adams, a COVID-19 relief cash grant distributer. The second charge stated that on March 5, 2021, at Russell Street, Charlestown too, she used abusive language towards Adams.

The third and fourth charge allege that on the same date and location, Gonsalves unlawfully assaulted Police Constable, Vickram Luknauth, a peace officer who was acting in the execution of his duty, and unlawfully and maliciously damaged his tactical vest, valued $9,500.

Gonsalves is being represented by attorney-atlaw, Darren Wade. The lawyer told the court that his

client was allegedly assaulted by ranks and received a black and blue eye.

He also told the court that the police kept his client in custody from March 5, until yesterday for bailable offenses.

Wade then asked for Gonsalves to be released on her own recognizance.

However, the police prosecutor objected to bail being granted citing that Gonsalves allegedly assaulted a peace officer and damaged his property.

Magistrate IsaacsMarcus granted Gonsalves bail in the sum of $5,000, for the threatening behaviour charge and self bail on the other three charges.

Tuesday March 09, 2021

Suriname offers help to set up national oil company

I

f Guyana sees the need to establish a national oil company (NOC), which would be aimed at monitoring and regulating its oil and gas sector, then Suriname says it is willing to offer its support to achieve that goal.

Rudolf Elias, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Suriname's NOC, Staatsolie, revealed this support during his interview on Kaieteur Radio's, Guyana's Oil and You. On the January 4 interview, Elias highlighted how Suriname is able to challenge and question the millions in costs handed to it by international oil companies, while nothing how this was made possible through the establishment of Staatsolie.

“It is so important to have a seat at the table,” the Suriname Oil Boss explained, “because if you have a seat at the table you have somebody who is actually on the project team that is developing the development. You know firsthand what the costs are.

You have a firsthand insight

of all the contracts that they gave away.

We know exactly what the costs are so they can never inflate the cost that we have because we have a seat at the table. We have a seat at the table so we know everything that is happening.”

This, the CEO highlighted, should form the basis for Guyana to establish its own NOC, equipped with competent, skilled individuals who can be a partner of choice for international oil companies, like United States ExxonMobil, French's Total or British's Tullow.

The Suriname Oil Boss also advised that Guyana should start building knowledge for a NOC, as he indicated that by paving the way for capacity building, countries make better deals with the international oil companies. He added too, that this positions NOCs to be able to better understand what international oil companies are doing on projects.

Proper capacity building,

CEO of Suriname's Staatsolie, Rudolf Elias Elias advised, should be open to all agencies, and not exclusive to government ministries and institutions.

Elias had also stressed that the capacity to address commercial aspects of the oil industry must not be overlooked.

Elias said, “The basis of dealing with the oil companies should always be commercial because at the end of the day, we must ensure that we get as much money as practically possible for the people; and the government should have policies guiding spending.”

New Board installed to handle Kidney Foundation affairs

A

new board has been installed to handle the affairs of the Kidney Foundation of Guyana (KFG), a non-profit foundation established since 2010, to provide support for persons living with kidney disease in Guyana.

The new executive members of the foundation c o n s i s t s o f Chairman/President – Major General Retired Joe Singh; Vice-Chairman - Dr. Areefa Alladin; Secretary - Dr. Maranatha Persaud; Treasurer - Dr. Obadele Thorne; Assistant Secretary/Treasurer - Dr. Nicolas Elliot; Public Awareness Committee - Dr. Jarrel Watson and Nadine L u t h e r s - Wi l l i a m s a n d Executive members – Ivonna Samaroo and Roshini Razack. The Foundation was first established in the year 2010 with the aim of collaborating with the Government and other NonGovernmental Organisations to provide support for persons living with kidney disease in Guyana.

Its mandate is to also

Vice-Chairman, Dr. Areefa Alladin

Chairman/President - Major General Retired Joe Singh

contribute to the prevention of Kidney disease and kidney failure by educating the population on modifying risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity.

Against this backdrop, the Foundation hopes to raise public awareness during the observance of this year's World Kidney Day, which is celebrated every year on March 11.

Under this year's theme: 'Living well with Chronic Kidney Disease', the

Foundation has planned and engaged a series of media events for the month of March that will target members of the public. These events will be spearheaded by doctors as well as patients living with Kidney disease.

To this end, the executive membership of the Foundation has been making themselves available for interviews and any information persons may need regarding this topic during the period.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 09, 2021

PAGE 09

The govt. is bent in its ways T

wo more persons died yesterday f r o m t h e coronavirus. This brings the total number of deaths to 203.

As of yesterday, there were eight persons in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Based on the death rate of severe cases, it is likely that two more of these persons are going to die this week. This will mean more grief and suffering.

And still the government operates as if the situation is under control. It is not. Since January, there has been a massive spike in cases.

Since the start of the year, there have been almost 2,500 cases, an average of almost 20 cases per day, among the highest average number of cases in any period.

Guyana was doing well going into the Christmas holidays, when a vaccine became available internationally. But the Christmas and New Year holidays saw a sudden spike, no doubt caused by irresponsible behaviour and poor enforcement.

But Christmas and New Year celebrations cannot alone account for the sustained increase in new cases. It could well be that we have new variants. The last sample sent to CARPHA – the Caribbean reference laboratory, was much too small and perhaps some of the most recent cases should be referred back to that institution to determine

whether Guyana has acquired the highly contagious Brazilian, United Kingdom or South African variant. If we have, the death rate is going to skyrocket.

Guyana's per capita death rate is extremely high.

In comparison to other countries in the Region, our per capita death rate is even higher than Venezuela. It is higher that St. Lucia, Antigua, Montserrat, Jamaica, Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Haiti and Grenada. Guyana is not doing well at all in reducing deaths and perhaps there needs to be international assistance to offer advice on treatment.

The Ministry of Health has been reluctant to provide much information, apart from the age and Region of residence of those who have died. As such, not much inferences or conclusions can be drawn about these deaths. In fact, the Ministry of Health is yet to publish any analysis of the COVIDrelated deaths, which can help the public, and the Ministry itself, gain a better understanding of these deaths.

The Ministry does not even have the decency to advise the public of the total cases per Region. This either has to be calculated from the daily reports or citizens have to wait.

The Citizen's Initiative provides far more information than the Ministry of Health, and ironically their data, is from

the Ministry of Health.

The Ministry of Health provides no regional breakdown of new cases or active cases. It hardly ever provides information as to specific villages or communities, which are affected. And of course, for reasons of privacy and confidentiality, there is no mention of the identities of those who have died.

The Ministry of Health is not going to become more transparent. It has treated the public with utter contempt by the withholding of critical data and by its failure to publish any detailed analysis of the local outbreak of the virus. The public does not know the respective number of deaths by age range. They do not know exactly how many of those who died had underlying conditions.

But more importantly, there is little information about the possible ways in which the infected contracted the virus. A number of elderly persons have died and it is speculated that younger infected persons may have contracted the virus and taken it home.

Schools are likely to be reopened just after Easter and if this is done without most of the high-risk population being inoculated, Guyana could be in for a real disaster because once the virus gets into the school system, it will spread like a wind-assisted wildfire.

The government, however, is not going to

Vaccine is free! boys seh...

Dem

P

eople just 'pamping a scene.'

Dem just “playing styles” or playing silly. Nuff ah dem wah sehing dem nah tekkin de vaccine gan be de fuss fuh line up when it start to roll out.

India give we vaccine fuh 40,000 people. Most of dat gan done pun dem health workers. China give we fuh 10,000 people but dem boys know dat some of we Guyanese gan skin-up we nose pun de Chinese vaccine. COVAX gan give we another 100,000 doses and we gan get another 100,000 doses from the African Union Day.

We gan still short. But dat is wah yuh gat fuh expect when we gat oil wealth but we begging fuh vaccine rather dan putting in we order long ago fuh buy.

De vaccine is free. And Guyanese like freeness.

When de fuss set of vaccine fuss come, nuff of dem frontline workers decide dat dem nah tekkin it.

But only fuh de time being.

Dem waiting fuh see wah gan happen. But dem boys know dat dem gan tek it. Is just trying to fuh show how dem brave but dem boys know dem knee knocking.

Dem frighten burial ground more dan dem frighten Dracula.

Dem boys nag frighten wah gan happen in de

election fuh de Presidency of de West Indies Cricket Board. Dem boys seh is time for a change and is time for a Guyanese.

When was Chetty time fuh become President, dem mek excuse and seh dat because he gat horse race betting shop dat is gambling.

De man company don't bet pun cricket though. Was so dem bin try fuh block a Guyanese from getting de wuk.

Dem boys seh is high time a Guyanese become de President. But dem boys know dat de competition stiff. But this is we best chance.

Talk half and wait fuh see who lining up fuh de vaccine!

change its ways. It is not going to become more transparent.

That promise has already been thrown through the window. It is now left for the people to assist each other in overcoming this pandemic.

More than 200 persons have died thus far. And very few of their families have come forward to talk about their experience. Perhaps they feel stigmatized. But they owe it to the memory of their loved ones to try to educate the public about

their loved ones' experience and how they contracted the virus, so that people can get a better idea of the forms of local community spread and if younger people are taking the virus home and infecting the elderly.

Of the more than 8,000 persons who have been infected over the past year, only a handful of persons have come forward to share their experience. If this changes and more people speak out – especially about those who have died –

Guyanese may begin to take the pandemic more seriously.

The people owe it to one another to come forward and share their stories. By sharing your story, you can help stop rather than share the virus.

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Tuesday March 09, 2021

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Oh man, that 2020 election again!

W

hen my kid at 10 years was preparing for what we in Guyana generally refer to as the “Common Entrance” examination, she took afternoon lessons with the famous teacher, Wilfred Success in West Ruimveldt.

I would drop her off, then, pick up my wife from GOINVEST after work, then, instead of going home only to go out again to West Ruimveldt, we would roam the seawall as they say, “to kill time.” One of our favourite places was the beach at Lusignan. We spent many afternoons enjoying that site.

Last week we were

heading up the East Coast so we turned into the Lusignan seashore to invoke memories. We had not been to that site since our kid completed her “Common Entrance.”

The beach is completely gone – lost to the relentless encroachment of mangroves, which of course is a geological advantage.

As we were leaving the area, we drove slowly to observe the changes. Near to the seashore, this gentleman was clearing the parapet outside his home. He beckoned to me and I stopped. He said he liked my columns, and he enjoyed my take on Eusi Kwayana. Then

he said, “yuh writing too much on the election though.” I agreed but told him it was one of the most important events in Guyanese history and that it will remain so as long as Guyana is alive. With a broad smile, he said, “yuh right.”

So here I am writing on the March 2020 election.

Will I stop? No. Context is everything. At my age, I don't think I want to resurrect my anti-dictatorship activism, and if there was a successful rigged election in March last year, I would have had to do that. If there was a successful rigged election last year, I don't

know if my daughter and her generation would have had a future.

So here I am since March 4, 2020 once more looking at the general election. This analysis here is a response to Vincent Alexander's reply to me in KN of March 4.

In last Sunday's Stabroek News, Lincoln Lewis asserts that the PPP is an illegal government. Moses Nagamootoo after a year of disappearance has resurfaced to claim the Americans rigged the election for the PPP. Both Alexander and L e w i s h a v e propagandized about the fiction of the PPP tampering so often therefore, a reader may be inclined to ask why not ignore them.

One cannot do so because every argument, every point, every large word, every small newspaper letter, every enlightened opinion exposing people like Alexander, Lewis and Nagamootoo add to the body of historical knowledge that will educate generations to come.

A rejection to these three men is based on simple facts that democratic citizens and patriotic Guyanese must keep repeating. Alexander and Lewis in their newspaper publications claimed the election was fixed by the PPP. What is so strange about that?

Both men have not and cannot produce one source from any country's government, any global organization, any legislator from any nation that supported their claim.

This in itself is a record.

A disputed national election in any country follows a well-known pattern. The

Frederick Kissoon sore loser who is the incumbent has his/her backers who they cultivated when they were in power.

In the Guyana election, not one government in the world supported the PNC's claim.

Not one US legislator accepted a PNC victory. Not one of the 10 opposition parties that contested the election has accepted that the PPP rigged the poll. Not one observer group concluded that the results were unacceptable.

Of course, the PNC could enjoy massive support around the world if it could

secure an audience with the UN or the American government or the CARICOM Heads of State and show them where their statements of poll (SOPs) point to a PNC victory. In fact, the PNC's own partner, the AFC, has not seen the SOPs, according to Dominic Gaskin.

Perhaps the most comical aspect of the accusation of PPP tampering lies in the composition of GECOM. Three of its commissioners represent the PNC. Its chairperson shows not an ounce of pro-PPP bias.

The Chief Elections Officer and his deputy with other GECOM Secretariat staff have been charged by the state, which is currently led by a PPP government so they could not have been sympathetic to the PPP during the voting.

How then did the PPP got around committing electoral fraud that twisted the results? And given the widespread fraud, why did GECOM verify the results for nine of the 10 Regions on the morning of Wednesday, March 4.

We have an obligation to our young generation to expose the PNC and AFC and their surrogates.

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

Tuesday March 09, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

Kaieteur News

PAGE 12

Tuesday March 09, 2021

US CDC advises against co-administration T of COVID-19 vaccines

he Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States of America (US) has advised against the coadministration of COVID19 vaccines and other vaccines. This is because data is lacking on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines being administered simultaneously with other vaccines.

The US CDC said that the series of COVID-19 vaccines should be routinely administered alone.

Notably, most COVID19 vaccines are administered in two doses, weeks apart.

When the vaccines are administered, there should be a minimum interval of 14 days before or after administration of any other vaccine, according to the CDC. “However, COVID-19 and other vaccines may be administered within a shorter period in situations where the benefits of vaccination are deemed to outweigh the potential unknown risks of vaccine co-administration (e.g., tetanus-toxoid-containing vaccination as part of wound

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

(Photo: The Conversation)

- local Health Ministry advises against taking COVID-19 vaccine and filaria pills together campaign started with Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Four (Demerara-Mahaica),

while the COVID-19 immunization campaign kick started with frontline health care workers.

Two female pensioners are latest COVID-19 fatalities management, rabies vaccination for postexposure prophylaxis, measles or hepatitis.)

A vaccination during an outbreak or to avoid barriers to or delays in COVID-19 vaccination (e.g., in longterm care facility residents or healthcare personnel who received influenza or other vaccinations before or upon admission or on boarding),” it outlined.

Meanwhile, Guyana's

Ministry of Health has advised against taking filaria pills and COVID-19 vaccines on the same day.

The Filaria drug administration campaign and the COVID-19 immunization campaigns are both being rolled out currently and there is a chance that persons may seek to have them both on the same day.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, has

stated that it is an extra precautionary measure to prevent potential side effects.

He stated that the Health Ministry has established internal protocols “out of an abundance of caution” to monitor side-effects from the COVID-19 vaccines and it would be hard to monitor those side effects if the vaccines are taken with other medications.

Both campaigns started last month. The Filaria

T

he Ministry of Health (MOH) yesterday reported two elderly females as the latest COVID-19 fatalities.

In a press release, the Ministry said that the deceased are a 64-year-old female from Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) and a 69-year-old female from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

According to the MOH, both persons died while receiving treatment at its medical facility and have

been recorded as the 202nd and 203rd COVID-19 deaths.

The MOH also reported seven new infections via its daily dashboard update yesterday increasing the case toll to 8,814.

The dashboard shows that eight patients are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit, another 14 in institutional quarantine, 43 in institutional isolation and 389 in home isolation.

Additionally, a total of 8,171 persons have recovered to date with 57 new recoveries recorded yesterday.

Pensioner crushed to death by truck on Mandela Ave.

A screen grab from a video showing the man lying on the roadway after he was struck down

Y

esterday a 60y e a r - o l d pensioner of Albouystown, Georgetown lost his life after he was crushed by a truck at the junction of Houston Public Road and Mandela Avenue.

Dead is Gansham Cooblall of Curtis Street, Alouystown.

The accident occurred around 10:55hrs in the vicinity of the DSL outlet.

According to police reports, the left side front of motor lorry GYY1980 came

into contact with the 60year-old which caused him to fall on to the road way.

After he fell, the left side front wheel of the truck ran over him.

Immediately an alarm was raised, and the driver in the process of reversing the vehicle, ended up colliding with the front centre of another motor lorry which was just behind. That motor lorry sustained damage to its front.

After police arrived at the scene, Cooblall was

picked up in an unconscious state and was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was examined by a doctor who pronounced him dead on arrival.

A breathalyzer test was conducted on the 36-yearold truck driver of Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara but no trace of alcohol was found in his system.

However, he was taken into custody where he's assisting with the investigations.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 09, 2021

Two in custody over man found dead in Bagotstown home

The dead man's body found lying on his living room floor

P

olice have detained two men in connection with the death of the 31-year-old taxi driver, who was found dead in his Norton Street, Bagotstown home last week.

This was confirmed by a police official yesterday. The official, however, was unable to provide any information about the men's identity or the circumstances that led to them being detained. The men are being questioned as the investigation continues.

The father of three, Raoul Anthony Melville, was discovered lying motionless on his living room floor Thursday morning by his 11-year-old son. Melville, who resided with his wife, his younger son and daughter, was last seen alive just after midnight on Thursday.

When Kaieteur News reached out to the Melville family, the dead man's mother, Shafali Melville, related that just after 08:00 hrs. she had sent her 11-yearold grandson, who resides with her, to call his father (Raoul). Shafali said after a few minutes her grandson

returned screaming and shouting, “Tony dead and he deh on the ground.” She recalled that she immediately left what she was doing and ran to her son's house, which is located a stone's throw away from hers. When she arrived, she saw her son lying on the floor and his music set was playing. The woman recounted calling out for him but after realizing that he was not breathing, she started to panic. After alerting her husband and her other son, further checks were made and Melville's entire bedroom was seen ransacked and dismantled. The devastated mother told this publication that the 31-yearold taxi driver was found between a chair set and injuries were seen on his neck. His neck, she said bore a black and blue mark and blood was on his mouth and nose. She added that his back also had a few marks.

According to a police report, the dead man's house showed no sign of forced e n t r y. T h e b o d y w a s removed and an investigation has since been launched.

Raoul Melville's ransacked bedroom

PAGE 13

Kwakwani logger killed by falling tree

A

logger is now dead after a tree fell and pinned him to the ground. Dead is Patrick Gonsalves, of Kwakwani, Upper-Berbice River. The incident occurred in the #28 Miles, Unamco Backdam, on Sunday March 7, 2021, between 13:00 hrs. and 14:00 hrs.

According to reports, Gonsalves and his saw man were at the time felling trees, when the last one they fell, pinned him to the ground.

"We were cutting trees at the time, we stepped away from a tree I just cut and the man said let's watch for when it will fall.

In less than a minute he shoved me and say run the tree is falling!" the saw man related to this newspaper.

Before he knew it, Gonsalves, was on the ground under the tree.

"When I looked back, I saw the tree on his feet, I quickly sawed it off and

place him in a sitting position and left for assistance," he said.

In his bid to assist the

logger, the man said he went to get a taxi,

Dead: Patrick Gonsalves

The logger after the tree fell on him

but upon his return, Gonsalves was motionless.

He subsequently made contact with the Kwakwani Police Station. The body was later escorted to the Kwakwani Hospital Complex, where Gonsalves was examined and pronounced dead on arrival.

(Vanessa Braithwaite)

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 09, 2021

Natural Resources Ministry gets paltry $150M for 2021 Petroleum Sector Budget

By Gary Eleazar

G

uyana's Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) which holds responsibility for the management of the country's petroleum sector was this year allocated a paltry $150M as part of a multiyear Oil and Gas Sector Development Programme.

This would mean that the 2021 budget for the programme has been slashed

by US$193M since it would have been allocated $343M in 2020, in addition to $120M that was budgeted and spent in 2019.

That $4.2B multi-year programme is being funded by the International D e v e l o p m e n t Association—a component of the World Bank's group.

According to the scope of the programme—as outlined by the Ministry of Finance in the recently approved

- Oil & Gas Development progs. slashed by more than half Budget Estimates for 2021—the funding will go towards the completion of a gas to power study in addition to the enhancement of the legal and institutional framework for management and oversight of the Oil and Gas Sector.

Additionally, the funds are expected to go towards the creation of an oil and gas data management system in addition to support for public relations for the sector and its project management.

This year's allocation of $150M—according to the Ministry of Finance's Estimates—is also expected to fund “capacity building for the ministries of Natural Resources and Public Works, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Guyana Geology and Mines

Commission and the Department of Energy.

The Ministry has since activated mechanisms to begin utilizing the allocations inviting tenders for the revamping of the country's archaic sector laws—a project to be completed in 24 months, commencing in July.

According to the Ministry's request, the objective of the assignment is for the consultant to provide legislative drafting services, inclusive of on-thejob-training, in relation to the development of the legal and regulatory framework for the oil and gas sector to MNR, and the Petroleum Commission (PC)—the sector Regulator—once established.

According to the scope of (continued on page 18)

Linden man found dead after altercation with neighbours

By Vanessa Braithwaite

L

inden police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a Linden farmer, whose lifeless body was found in a track close to his home Saturday evening. Dead is 47-year-old, Samuel De Souza, a farmer of Lot 50 Victory Valley, Wismar, Linden.

According to police, the now dead man lived alone.

Police reported too that before he was found dead, he had an altercation with a female who, along with her daughter, confronted him.

He subsequently ran away through the track leading to his home but sometime later, two unidentified males came out of the said track and told the woman and her daughter that the victim was dead.

His brother, Jacob De Souza, told Kaieteur News that his brother told him last Sunday, that he is having issues with a neighbour, which was becoming violent.

“He told me he and the neighbour (name given) have a problem, and he said I want you to listen me carefully what I have to tell you. He said the neighbour

drink up and break up bottle in front the shop and when he asked he why he did that he draw a scissors and jook him and my brother cuff him,” the brother related. He said when he went on Saturday to check on his brother, he was told that he was murdered.

Neighbours related to him that the feud that started the week before continued with the named individual and his family, which included two females. After another physical altercation on Saturday, his brother left to walk through the track to go home and someone came and informed persons in the community that he was lying in the track dead.

“Everybody knows my brother, he is humble and quiet, he don't pick no trouble. They are always coming and thieve out he fruits and so from the yard,” Jacob De Souza further said.

When the Police visited the scene, the deceased was observed lying on his back in the track in front of his home.

A wooden-handle spear was observed resting on his body with what appeared to be blood.

Three knives and a screw driver were found in the deceased pants waist. His mouth and right ear had what

appeared to be blood oozing from it. There were superficial bruises seen on the exposed parts of his body.

The deceased was escorted to the Linden Hospital Complex, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Neighbours described De Souza as a hardworking and quiet individual.

The two females were taken into custody, and were said to assisting the police in their investigation.

According to police, a port mortem was conducted on DeSouza's remains yesterday by Government pathologist, Dr. Nehaul Singh, at the Georgetown Public Hospital's mortuary.

Dr. Singh, according to police, gave the cause of death as hypotension and gastritis.

The medical practitioner explained that the internal bleeding was cause by frequent movement of the deceased which led to the hypotension. He also added that this was also caused by the deceased's smoking and consuming alcohol which was found in his stomach.

The body was then handed over to relatives for burial.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 09, 2021

CGX to spend $15B in Guyana 2021 Drilling Campaign …eyes similar discoveries to that in neighbouring Suriname

O

il exploration in G u y a n a continues apace and despite a recent run of dry wells by ExxonMobil and its partners in the Stabroek Block, Canadianbased oil and gas firm, CGX, is gearing to spend some $90M to spud an exploration well in its Corentyne block in the second half of 2021.

In a recent update, CGX Energy said the Kawa-1 exploration is expected to be drilled to a depth of approximately 6,500 metres in a water depth of approximately 370 metres and is slated to be drilled in the second half of 2021.

According to the Company, the primary target for the exploration well is a Santonian age, stratigraphic trap (referencing the depth), interpreted to be analogous to the discoveries immediately to the east on Block 58 in Suriname.

The prospect is named after the iconic mountain overlooking the village of Paramakatoi in the

Pakaraima Mountains of Guyana.

The Company has since announced too that another well, the Makarapan1exploration well on the Demerara block, is currently expected to be drilled to a total depth of approximately 3,500m in a water depth of approximately 1,000 metres.

The primary target for this exploration well is an Aptian age, sandstone reservoir. The prospect is named after the Precambrian mountain overlooking the Rupununi Savannahs of Guyana.

CGX did not say when this well is expected to be spudded.

"The Company expects, based on presently available information, that the total cost of the Guyana exploration programme in 2021 will be approximately C$90 million (G$14.8B)," the company said.

CGX is a Canadian oil and gas exploration company that holds three licences in (continued on page 18)

Ram adds voice to...

From page 3 calculations,” OGGN had said in a comment shared with this newspaper. The oil & gas governance pressure group, like other transparency advocates, is banking on the reports to make accurate calculations of Guyana's royalty and profit share from the sale of its crude.

Dr. Jagdeo had encouraged reporters to request the documents, but OGGN had noted a recent Kaieteur News report, which pointed to the law requiring the publication of its crudes.

Article 42 of the Natural Resource Fund Act states, “The Minister shall publish on the website of the Ministry and generally make available to the public… (c) The monthly reports within seven working days after they have been submitted to the Minister by the Bank…”

OGGN insists that it should be the Guyana government that releases the reports, rather than having the public rely on ExxonMobil's local subsidiary, Esso Exploration

and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL).

“Asking Exxon to help with the calculation is like asking the fox to count the number of chickens in the coop,” it said.

The group noted that the most recent oil report dates back to January 2020. The report was published by the Ministry of Finance, under the previous administration.

Former Finance Minister, Winston Jordan's 'Report on Petroleum Production and Revenues' states, “These reports will allow the public to monitor deposits in, and withdrawals from, the NRF so as to ensure that petroleum revenues are being managed according to the provisions of the NRF Act 2019.”

“Such transparency is important,” the Former Minister's report had stated, “given the magnitude of revenues that will be generated from this resource.”

The detailed report included information on production, sales and Guyana's entitlement, and transfers to the NRF.

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PAGE 16 FOR SALEFOR SALE

320 cat Excavator bucket. Used surveying instruments.1200Gals Bitumen spray kettle.Call 227-0367/ 683-7225 VACANCY One (1) part time truck driver apply at Lens 136 Sheriff Street, C/Ville Tel#227-2486 LEARN TO DRIVE AIDAN'S CAR RENTAL & TOW TRUCK SERVICE:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE#698-7807.

VEHICLE FOR SALE Allion, Premio,192, 212 Carina, Fielder wagon, raum, Avensis, Bluebird, Allexis, Spacio, L Touring wagon Tel#650-7501 Noah 2012 for sale just arrived from japan newly registered 4.6 M negtiable Call 623-3440 or 233-5600 WANTED Kitchen manager must have experience must be able to motivate apply @ Shanta's 225 Camp St 2 Lorry drivers 3 porters Contact 626-4691/ 627-1835 Experienced counter server, kitchen assistant, roti/ puri cook apply Hack's Halaal, 5 Commerce St 1 truck driver Call 223-9677 8am to 5pm One (1) male able bodied clerk call: 225-2313/ 226-1497 Factory workers, male & female apply in person to RP Enterprise Leressouveneir E.C.D Tel#220-2818

For experience sales person & checkers call 623-1615 Maid to cook and clean for the East Bank area Call 615-9132 Delivery riders - Country 120 jobs available to ride company owned motorbikes. Phone: 658-9124 or email jobs@gorchum.com Male and female security officers experience will be an asset must be over 18 years old. Call 223-4172 Shop worker & handyman to work in interior Tel#231-0363 2 supervisor/ western uinon rep francis plaza 69-71 friendship Telephone 274-0144 / 646-3117, 5 cxc subject inclusive maths & English One experience general domestic call 623-1615 One female teacher to teach a grade one & two child. Interested person call 623-1615 Kitchen assistant, cleaner, accounts clerk, cashier contact via email chungsvacancy@gmail.com #603-0886, 640-4522, 640-4520, 624-3048 Engineer, labourer, security guard contact via email chungsvacancy@gmail.com #603-0886, 640-4522, 640-4520, 624-3048

Puri roti cooks apply @ Shanta's 225 Camp St

Hauler/ trailer driver, truck driver, welder/ frabrication contact via email chungsvacancy@gmail.com #686-0886, 640-4522, 640-4520, 624-3048

Experience license custom broker with 5 plus year experience contact hr@buxoguyana.com

One clerk for Eccles office English & mathematics, grade 1 & 2 Email application to techserigy@yahoo.com

Wanted - Crane porter ages 25 - 50 years old please call 644-2564

Female cleaner for office. Call: 642-9823 Taxi & Bus drivers 225-3234, 628-1183

FOR RENT Empty plot no agent, EBD River possible water front whart 204 WX 612L serious enquires 592615-225/ +1-301-306-9580 email: jgstele@verizon.net

Tuesday March 09, 2021

Kaieteur News

FOR SALEFOR SALE

Cat 428 back-hoe. Cat 215 Excavator used parts road spray painting machine 683-7225/ 227-0367

Furnished lower flat for rent vigilance north, $60,000. 1 leyland DAF.65.210 flat bed Light, water & surveillance top condition Contact 626cameras included Tel#639- 8417 9345 PROPERTY FOR SALE Vreed-en-hoop junction place for hair salon, pedicure Commercial property for sale & manicure, other Call 603- or rent Providence old road Call 623-3440 / 233-5600 6400

Mitsubisi contact 4M40 6 months insurance goods & service and alarm system Contact 693-3003 Price $1.999.00 One disel generator 10-15 KVA. USA made Contact 699-4300/ 228-2734 for more details.

German Shepherd pups vaccinated & dewormed.

Tel#622-0015

SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040 Installation, Repairs and parts for AC,Fridge, Washing machine, Stove etc.Call Nick#630-1600.

House plan drawing and estimate K. Lakeram building contractor. Call us 216-0671/ 692-8464 or whatsapp 6220267

Teen raped, 7 months pregnant - father reportedly in hiding A teenage girl from the North West District (NWD), Region One, who was allegedly raped by her father, is now seven months pregnant.

While an investigation was launched into the matter, the father has reportedly gone into hiding.

Kaieteur News was told that the 15-year-old girl is presently staying with a relative in Region Three.

According to a source, the discovery was made after the teen's father sent her out to spend time with the relative under the pretext that she was just going for vacation.

When the teen was questioned, she disclosed that she was raped by her father.

The teenage girl stated that her mother and father have five children together, all females, and she is the eldest.

According to the teen, her mother started working last year, and this caused a problem between her parents.

She said one day when her mother came home her father reportedly put her mother's clothes outside and subsequently put her out. She stated since then she and her sisters were living with their father.

The 15-year-old further alleged that during June 2020, her father started sexually molesting her.

She said at first she did not realize she was pregnant until months later when she started to feel something move in her belly.

According to the teen, she then informed her father.

She said her father later called her cousin, who lives in Region Three, and told her that his daughter wants to spend some time with her.

It was while the teen was staying with her relative that it was discovered that she was raped and impregnated.

The child was then taken to a police station located in Region Three where the matter was reported.

She was also taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where she obtained a medical certificate which showed that she is seven months along.

Additionally, when Kaieteur News contacted Regional Commander, Khalid Mandall, he stated that the matter was never reported in Region One but an intransit message was sent to Region One for the arrest of the suspect who allegedly raped his daughter.

He said when the ranks visited the home the suspect was nowhere to be found.

Commander Mandall also told Kaieteur News that several attempts were made after that but the suspect is still in hiding.

The child reportedly told her relative that she does not want to go back home but she is concerned for her four sisters, the eldest being 12.

A man hunt has since been launched to find the man.

Tuesday March 09, 2021

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Kaieteur News

>>>International Women’s Day Messages<<< PRESIDENT IRFAAN ALI The Cooperative Republic of Guyana joins with the international community and women across the globe in observing International Women’s Day 2021. This year’s observances highlight the need for us to work more assiduously and purposefully to reduce gender inequalities.

The coronavirus pandemic has exposed startling societal disparities, including gender inequalities.

The economic slowdown and job losses due to the pandemic are expected to continue to adversely impact women, especially those employed in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Women have also had to shoulder the burdens associated with the closure of schools and the need to make provisions for the care of their school-age children.

These d e v e l o p m e n t s will only exacerbate the disadvantages to which women are

subjected.

On International Women’s Day 2021, as we celebrate the contributions and achievements of our women, let us redouble our efforts and recommit to completing the unfinished task of narrowing gender inequalities wherever these are to be found.

On this note, even as we work to achieve greater equality for women, we must speak about the development of the family.

The value ascribed to the family unit and its empowerment is essential in women’s advancement, as stronger families are critical in providing the support women need to thrive.

Women play an integral role in the family and are essential in the transformation of Guyana.

Changing the country starts with changing communities, changing homes, and in every facet of that change, women will be involved.

Very soon I am going to be addressing the issue of family in building this One Guyana we want to achieve.

From the level of Government there are several underling themes in relation to what we want to achieve for women’s advancement: 1. Greater participation, 2.

Empowerment, 3. Enhance livelihood options, 4. A more secure environment in which they can live, 5. Stronger families, 6. and, ensuring that our national institutions address, in a holistic manner, the challenges of women.

As we celebrate the tremendous strides made by our women, let us, with immediacy and urgency, work towards reducing the inequalities which disadvantage our women and deny them the dignity to which they are entitled. Let us continue to work for greater equality for women everywhere.

Happy International Women’s Day!

PEOPLE’S NATIONAL CONGRESS The People’s National Congress greets Guyanese women everywhere on the occasion of International Women’s Day, 2021.

The PNC is proud of having consistently championed women’s causes for several decades since its presentation of the State Paper on the Equality of Women in the National Assembly, during International Women’s Year 1975.

The Party, while in office, initiated constitutional, legal, organisational, political and social measures which have had a major impact on national development.

The PNC, as a member of A Partnership for National Unity, is out of governmental office this year but, nevertheless, has recommitted to the principles of gender equality and empowerment by ensuring that

fifty per cent of its MPs are women.

The APNU called attention to the public health emergency caused by the plague of pandemic, most recently by holding a candlelight vigil; to human safety by condemning crimes against women and all forms of domestic and interpersonal violence; and to economic and food security by promoting village-based farming, foodprocessing, micro-enterprise and marketing.

The PNC – conscious that nurses, doctors and school teachers most of whom are women, are in the frontline of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic – commits to continuing to work to improve the safety of women workers in the health, public and teaching services. The Party expresses solidarity and support for Guyanese women everywhere.

ALLIANCE FOR CHANGE As Guyana joins with the rest of the world to observe International Women’s Day (IWD), we are reminded that the struggle for justice and equality for our women continues to be threatened.

This year, international Women’s Day comes at a time when there is a darkening cloud that threatens the wellbeing of our women.

The theme for IWD 2021, “Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world” is a reminder of the role our women leaders across political, economic and social divides have to play as the world transitions to a new paradigm influenced by the realities of COVID-19.

But while much of the developed world focus on new ways of working, socializing and generally doing things in a COVID

world, our local reality is one where the elimination of violence against our women remains a goal yet to be reached. Every day in our local newspapers and social media platforms we read of women being abused, assaulted, maimed, disfigured, raped, threatened and even worse, some pay the ultimate price; they are murdered.

In the Guyana context, women leaders face not only the challenge of aiding the development of women who may be more vulnerable but, they themselves face the challenge of not being seen and treated as an object to be abused.

Even more challenging to our women leaders, is the task of being seen as an equal, as a peer by some men in our society.

We acknowledge that some progress has been made

by our women and today many of them serve as CEOs and head constitutional and other high offices. They have broken through the proverbial ‘glass ceiling’. But the struggle is not yet over.

Abuse of our women at all strata of society remains our biggest challenge. Facing that challenge must go beyond the token recognition of women on International Women’s Day, Mother’s Day or any other special occasion. It must be more than formulating voluminous policies, making lofty statements and extending platitudes. Until such a time when our women are safe, are allowed to develop their full potential without interference, are respected and treated as equals, the struggle must continue.

No woman is safe until all women are safe.

Attorney General, Anil Nandlall Yesterday was International Women’s Day?...Nay, everyday is International Women’s Day! However, since March 8 has been specifically singled out, it behoves us in Guyana to reflect upon the remarkable achievements made, in attaining gender equality. In this regard, it must be recognised that gender equality is guaranteed as a fundamental right and freedom by our Supreme Law, the Constitution and

buttressed, not only by a series of legislation but also, ossified by a number of International Treaties and Charters, to which Guyana is a signatory.

In our reflections, we are enjoined to recognise the reality in other parts of the world, where women are still held in subjugation and treated as second class citizens.

On this day, therefore, we must strive to renew our commitment to dismantle these discriminatory

architecture and ideologies, which continue to shackle women in those oppressive and repressive societies, while at the same time at home, we must continue to convert into reality our Constitutional declarations of, and, International commitments to, gender equality with specific focus on the horrendous scourge of violence against women, so unfortunately prevalent in our midst.

Happy International Women’s day!

GUYANA ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN LAWYERS I N T E R N AT I O N A L WOMEN’S DAY International Women’s’ Day 2021 theme is “Unite and Take Action against Gender Inequality, Stereotypes and Gender Based Violence”, h a s h t a g : #ChooseToChallenge. The Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GAWL) encourages women in Guyana to Choose to Challenge any adversity they face and become the change they want to be. The global COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated us to change our modus operandi, face the challenges of the restrictive environment and reassess how to create innovative avenues to stay safe while going about our daily routines.

In 2020 we had to adapt to Zoom court hearings, meetings, classroom lessons and technological innovations to stay the course. Mothers had to ensure children operate in a new environment via distance learning. We had to sanitize, wear masks and ensure our work environment

was safe. We chose to be the change and many women have overcome substantial hurdles.

There still exist discrimination in the workplace as evidenced by the discriminatory rules degrading remarks about the nurses at the Linden Hospital and sexual harassment of women. Domestic violence increased as our men folk became stressed from lockdowns and work pressure. Women’s mental health suffered.

Some innovative women engaged in alternate income earning ventures and many succeeded. We partnered and leaned on each other to keep our sanity and our homes stress-free and we did it. On the world stage women led by example. New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern coped with a newborn, ran a successful re-election and kept her country COVID-free.

The United State saw the ascension of Kamala Harris as the first woman to occupy the Office of the Vice President.

Regionally, Barbados’ Hon. Mia Motley

came up with ingenious ways of keeping the Barbadian economy afloat. On the home front Guyanese women also made great strides. Over the years, the GAWL was pivotal in having the law recognise women’s rights with respect to marriage, maintenance, division of property and reproductive rights.

However, there is still discrimination in the workplace, sexual harassment and other gender related obstacles including gender equality which would aid in the development of women and girls. A courage woman creates a forward movement.

The GAWL encourages women to speak up and represent themselves. We encourage women to not stay silent, not be stifled but rather, choose to challenge every day. Women’s rights are human rights. We can look to the American civil rights movement where again all adversity: “Rosa sat so Ruby could walk so Kamala could run.” Best wishes for a proactive, safe and productive International Women’s Day!

AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GUYANA The American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Guyana extends our gratitude and best wishes to women globally on this day dedicated to International Women’s Day. Women globally have made an immense and profound contribution to the wellbeing of humanity through every sphere of life which includes but is not restricted to science, technology, arts, politics, and social activism.

As recent as last month, Dr. Swati Mohan of the National Space Agency (NASA) in the United States played a pivotal role in NASA’s landing and exploration of

Mars. In Guyana, great strides have been made towards narrowing the gender gap and advancing the economic, social, and political roles of women. According to an ILO 2017 study, Guyana has one of the highest amount of women in upper management and CEOs in the Caribbean.

ILO data also shows women account for more than 70 percent of University graduates, the highest in the Caribbean and one of the highest globally. Women are also well represented in politics via the parliament and cabinet appointments.

Despite these strides,

AmCham remains concerned about the discrimination and rampant gender based violence that continues to be meted out to women.

We must work together to combat this scourge and accelerate gender equality.

Cognizant of the tremendous progress we have made, we wish to use this auspicious opportunity to acknowledge and highlight the role of two outstanding women, H.E. Sarah-Ann Lynch, United States Ambassador to Guyana, and H.E. Arya Ali, the first lady of Guyana for their roles in the (Continued on page 18)

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Kaieteur News

Brazil judge annuls Lula’s Leader of Indian state promises food and convictions, opens door to 2022 run shelter for families fleeing Myanmar BRASILIA - (Reuters) - A Brazilian Supreme Court judge yesterday annulled the criminal convictions against former leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, a move that could allow the popular politician to run in next year’s presidential election.

The decision roiled financial markets and scrambled forecasts for the 2022 race, with many investors betting it would polarize voters between President Jair Bolsonaro, a far-right populist, and Lula, his greatest opponent on the left.

In a surprise decision, Justice Edson Fachin said that a court in the southern city of Curitiba did not have the authority to try Lula on corruption charges and that he must be retried in federal courts in the capital Brasilia.

The office of Brazil’s prosecutor general said it will appeal the decision, which will also be reviewed by the full Supreme Court.

Brazil’s real sank around 1.5% to a fresh four-month low after the news and the Bovespa stock index fell 3%.

The real closed at 5.7779 per dollar, its weakest since May last year.

Financial analysts said the prospect of Lula candidacy would likely drive Bolsonaro to abandon economic reforms he ran on in 2018 and further embrace populist measures to shore up support.

Former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva “With Lula eligible, the chance of this current government going totally towards populism increases even more,” said Alfredo Menezes, managing partner at Armor Capital.

Lula governed Latin America’s most populous country and largest economy between 2003 and 2011, overseeing a commodities boom that turbocharged economic growth.

In 2018, he was convicted of taking bribes from engineering firms in return for public contracts and spent a year and a half behind bars, until the Supreme Court ruled he and others could appeal their cases without serving time.

Lula has maintained his innocence and said the case against him was politically motivated. His conviction had

prevented him from running for another presidential term.

The charismatic former union leader is a polarizing figure but still beloved by much of Brazil’s working class for bringing millions out of poverty through generous social welfare programs.

Lula is the only one of 10 potential 2022 candidates who outperformed Bolsonaro in a survey by polling company Ipec, published in newspaper O Estado de S. Paulo last week.

It found that 50% of the 2,002 people it interviewed “would certainly” or “could” vote for Lula, compared with 38% for Bolsonaro. Some 44% of respondents said they would never vote for Lula, while 56% would never vote for Bolsonaro, the poll found.

>>>International Women’s Day Messages<<<

DR. ROSMOND ADAMS, PANCAP DIRECTOR “This International Women’s Day challenges us to reflect on women who have taken up extraordinary leadership roles during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

From the outstanding leadership of Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, who has been a pillar of the Region’s response to the Pandemic, to the single mother who has lost her job because of

COVID-19. Women have persevered in the face of the Pandemic’s challenges.

Women living with and affected by HIV have experienced particular hardships with the loss of income and reduced access to HIV prevention, treatment and care due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The Region’s National AIDS programmes and Civil Society Organisations are to

be applauded as they stepped up to ensure continuity of care.

The Region has also noted an increase in genderbased violence due to lockdowns.

I challenge our members and partners to support creating an enabling environment in which ALL women and girls are protected, valued and respected”.

...AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE From page 17 advancement and development of women in Guyana. The role that Ambassador Lynch played in the struggle to maintain Guyana’s democratic status, to maintain our freedoms and civil liberties can never be understated.

Her activism during Guyana’s most difficult and

turbulent times gave the nation an iota of light when hope was fading.

Similarly, First Lady Arya Ali has made numerous important contributions to our nation since taking the oath of office through developmental and philanthropic works.

AmCham recognises the role of such activism in the

beautification of our nation and to serve those downtrodden and most in need.

AmCham is honoured and privileged to honour both of these amazing women today and remain committed to creating a sustainable atmosphere for women to thrive and access equal opportunity

AIZAWL, India (Reuters) - The chief minister of a small Indian state into which a stream of refugees from Myanmar have entered in recent days said yesterday that they should be given temporary shelter, as the federal government decides on whether some will be sent back.

Several low-ranking Myanmar police and their families have crossed into northeastern Mizoram state, where they have sought refuge to avoid taking orders from a junta that imposed a coup in the Southeast Asian country last month.

But authorities in Myanmar last week asked officials in Mizoram to detain and return eight police officers, raising concerns about their safety if they are sent back by India.

“As common sense dictates, when there is a political problem in one country and when there is a fear for one’s life, if they cross over to the neighbouring countries, then normally they were not sent back,” Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga said in an interview.

The final call would be taken by the federal government, which has been communicating with Mizoram authorities and still hasn’t given clear directions, creating some confusion on how the refugees would be handled, he said.

“From the humanitarian

Myanmar citizens living in India hold placards during a protest against the military coup in Myanmar, in New Delhi point of view, we have to give them food, we have to give them shelter,” said Zoramthanga, who uses only one name.

Myanmar and Mizoram share a 404-km (250-mile) border, with only a shallow river currently dividing the two countries in some parts, making it easy for people to cross.

Although the porous nature of the frontier made it difficult to estimate exactly how many from Myanmar had walked into Mizoram in recent weeks, Zoramthanga said it could be between 20 and 30.

But a senior police official in Mizoram’s capital said nearly 100 people from Myanmar, mostly police and their families, had crossed over in five border districts.

Some of the defected Myanmar police have told Indian officials they fled after being ordered to use violence against protesters, who have

staged weeks of demonstrations against the coup that deposed the civilian government of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. More than 50 people have been killed by security forces, according the United Nations, with some 1,700 people detained, including Suu Kyi. The situation has put India in a potential diplomatic bind, given New Delhi’s close relations with the Myanmar military, which it works with on counter-insurgency operations in the northeastern region.

Zoramthanga, a 76-yearold rebel leader turned politician, said that tribes in Mizoram had deep cultural links with those on the Myanmar side, but the major concern was risk to lives that was forcing them to cross over.

“We have to have sympathy for them,” he said.

...Natural Resources Ministry gets paltry From page 14 work identified for the successful consultant, is the undertaking of a, “comprehensive review of Guyana's existing legal and regulatory framework…such review to include and maximize upon existing institutional, legislative and regulatory analysis and revision documentation.

Additionally, the consultant is expected to support MNR in detailing the legislative and regulatory instruments required to update and establish Guyana's governance, management and oversight of the upstream, mid and downstream oil and

gas sector, so as to establish a modern and competitive framework.

This, in addition to the development of a prioritised legislative agenda and implementation action plan.

The consultant will also be expected to support the Attorney General's Chambers in the review, assessment and drafting necessary to ensure that the legislative and regulatory instrument are finalized in good order for presentation to the National Assembly, and for passage into law.

“Provide for the transfer of knowledge, including onthe-job training and review

workshops, for selected personnel from the MNR, PC, Attorney General's Chambers and other ministries/agencies as identified by the MNR, on legal aspects of the petroleum industry.”

Additionally, the Ministry has earmarked $4M in Capital Expenditure for the purchase of furniture and equipment.

The Ministry's current allocation for the year for the Petroleum Management Sector has since been revised upwards to in excess of $435M for the payment of wages and salaries among other administrative expenses.

...CGX to spend $15B in Guyana 2021 Drilling From page 15 the Guyana – Suriname basin, formed in 1998 by John Cullen and Guyanese, Edris Dookie (who is no longer with the company). The Company said it is fully funded for two offshore wells that will test multibillion barrel potential.

The three licences held

are “New Demerara Petroleum Agreement,” “New Berbice Petroleum Agreement” and “Corentyne Petroleum Agreement” acquired in 2012 and 2013 from the Government of Guyana.

Two wells were drilled on the Corentyne block licence, however were later aban-

doned as a dry hole and for safety concerns.

The company is currently surrounded by oil majors and are operating on the Corentyne and Demerara block offshore Guyana in close proximity to the Liza discovery made by oil giant ExxonMobil.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 09, 2021

PAGE 19

Govt. touts Natural Resources curriculum for secondary schools

T

he Ministry of Natural Resources is hoping to implement an adequate natural resources curriculum in secondary schools across Guyana.

This is in hopes of erasing stereotypes about the natural resources industry, equipping young persons with the necessary knowledge needed if they are to venture into the sector, and boost local capacity, according to Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat.

The Minister made this disclosure on a recent edition of the Budget in Focus programme.

He stated that the Ministry already has a programme called “Youths in Natural Resources” with the aim of “getting young people back into the natural resources sector”, and it will continue.

However, even with that programme, there is a need to step back and observe the trend that has been occurring over the years whereas there is a decline in young people getting into the natural resources sector.

However, many young people hesitate to go into the “technical science field” at secondary schools across the country.

But Bharrat believes that the technical-science field is where the interest in natural resources is potentially initiated.

He said that most students opt to get into the business and arts stream because it may come across as more fashionable and adding to that "....there is this thing in Guyana and they hear it from others....it is easy to go into those areas than science or the technical field so I think we need to as leaders...to address that

issue because very soon we won't have much technical persons trained in the natural resources sector locally and that will be a problem.”

Bharrat stressed that as the natural resources sector continues to grow, opportunities will be created in oil and gas and mining since several large scale companies will start production soon.

For example, he stated that Troy Resources and the Zijin Company (operating in the Aurora mines) will soon venture into underground mining and unfortunately Guyana lacks skilled locals to monitor or even evaluate underground mining.

The Minister lamented that the government does not want young Guyanese venturing into these fields as mere labourers. “We don't want our young people to just go as

Trial underway for man accused of murder outside nightclub

T

were conducted but Lowchee was not immediately arrested. He evaded the police for14 years until his capture in 2017.

he trial of Mark Lowchee, the man charged for the 2003 murder outside of the Blue Iguana Nigh Club, is currently underway before Justice, Navindra Singh, at the Georgetown High Court.

The case against Lowchee commenced yesterday before the judge and jury.

The accused known as Marc Lee is charged for gunning down Albouystown resident, Collis De Abreu, outside the Blue Iguana nightclub at Light and Fifth Streets, Alberttown, Georgetown on September 21, 2003.

He has since pleaded not guilty to the charge and is represented by attorney, Ravindra Mohabir.

Mark Lowchee called 'Marc Lee' the accused and the owner of the nightclub, over a drinking glass belonging to the Blue Iguana.

According to the facts of the case presented by State Counsel, Tiffny Lyken, on the date previously mentioned, Lowchee used a handgun and opened fire outside the then-popular Blue Iguana nightspot, killing De Abreu and injuring two other persons.

It is further alleged that the accused discharged several rounds in the vicinity of the nightclub. After the incident, De Abreu, and the other injured persons were taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for treatment.

The shooting likely stemmed from a misunderstanding between

De Abreu was however pronounced dead upon arrival. Police investigations

The accused, who by then had become partly handicapped due to a stroke to his left side, faced a Preliminary Inquiry (PI) in the Magistrate Court. The PI was presided over by Magistrate, Leron Daly, who concluded that there is enough evidence for Lowchee to face a judge and jury. Last Thursday, the accused stood before Justice Singh and a 12-member jury at the High Court and pleaded not guilty to the crime.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat labourers or to just go as cooks.

We want them to go as supervisors, as managers, as the technical workers so we gotta move away from just being labourers or just the guys in the pit,” Bharrat outlined. According to the Minister,

young Guyanese must get the opportunity to be “the guys who run the show from behind the scenes.”

Further, Bharrat noted that if all goes well as it relates to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and students being back in the classrooms, the Natural Resources Ministry will take the lead in implementing the curriculum and collaborate with the Education Ministry to ensure that young persons are motivated and encouraged to see natural resources as something lucrative.

“That is the kind of vision that we have for the natural resources sector. But as I mentioned we need to go back a little to the secondary school level where we influence our young people to go into the natural resources, the science stream...technical stream because I think that is where it starts from,” Bharrat added.

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 09, 2021

Tuesday March 09, 2021

Kaieteur News

PAGE 21

Japan plans to cap daily arrivals at Update on South American qualifiers for FIFA 2,000 people ahead of Games: Nikkei

A man wearing a protective face mask walks past in front of a display showing the logo of Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games that have been postponed to 2021 due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Tokyo, Japan January 23, 2021. (REUTERS/Issei Kato/File Photo)

(Reuters) - Japan plans to cap the number of daily arrivals into the country at around 2,000 and allow exceptions to the ban on international travellers after the COVID-19 state of emergency is lifted in Tokyo ahead of the Olympics, Nikkei reported yesterday.

The newspaper report added that the proposed number will include Japanese nationals returning to the country, citing individuals familiar with the matter.

Japan has temporarily suspended exemptions allowing foreign athletes to train in the country ahead of the Games as it closed its

Tuesday March 09, 2021 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Your gracious, tender nature is likely to be extremely appreciated today, Aries. You may feel as if your head is so far up in the clouds that you can't get anything done.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Treat yourself to something special, Libra, whether a gourmet meal, new outfit, or latest gadget. Today is your day and you shouldn't deprive yourself of anything.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) If you need to do errands, Taurus, don't drag others along with you. Complete your mission solo. You will find that you're more efficient if you don't have to carry the extra burden around.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) There's an emotional, sensual feeling to the day that is sure to tickle your heart, Scorpio. Try not to be too abrasive when dealing with others.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Don't take no for an answer today, Gemini. Chances are you won't have to. People will be more understanding of your situation and have compassion for your cause.

CANCER(June21–July22) It may be difficult to deal with people who seem spaced out and confused today, Cancer.

This confusion can be contagious. You will find that no matter how much logic you apply to the situation, if it doesn't feel right.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Take your mind off your stressful duties and responsibilities today, Leo. This is a time for emotions and ego to connect in harmony. Don't let other people's problems ruin your good mood.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) All the knowledge in the world will be no match for the emotional energy in the air on a day like today, Virgo. You may be carried away into a mystical realm where feelings take precedence over facts.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) The different parts of your personality should work harmoniously today, Sagittarius. It's important that there be an equal amount of give and take in your world.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You probably aren't going to impress people with your fast talk and quick facts today, Capricorn. You will likely get further if you express the emotions that lie behind your words.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Your ego should be strengthened by your emotions, and vice versa, today.

Be yourself in every capacity and situation. Things should flow quite smoothly for you as long as you keep the energy moving within you.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Like a surfer who wants to ride the endless wave, you must first prepare yourself before you jump into the ocean with your board, Pisces. Sit on the real or imaginary beach for a while and contemplate the tide.

borders to contain a surge in COVID-19 cases. The state of emergency in the capital has been extended until March 21.

More than 70,000 people - including athletes, coaches and media representatives are expected to enter the country for the Games, Nikkei reported earlier, citing estimates in Japan.

Test events for the Olympics are to start in April.

The Games are scheduled to begin on July 23.

Last month, Olympic officials unveiled the first of many COVID-19 rules for the Games, starting by banning singing and chanting during events and mandating participants to wear masks at “all times” except when eating, sleeping or outdoors.

Japan has had more than 441,200 COVID-19 cases with the death toll at more than 8,300.

...Laporta elected FC Barcelona’s From page 21 pay-cut last year while it had to delay payments to players in December.

Yet things are looking up on the pitch, with Ronald Koeman’s side winning 13 of their last 16 league games and reaching the Copa del Rey final.

Laporta’s first match in his second spell as president is Wednesday’s Champions League last-16 second leg away to Paris St Germain, with Barca trailing 4-1 in the tie.

He added: “We’re off to Paris to stage a comeback.”

Laporta was first elected in 2003 and presided over a golden period in the club’s history which witnessed four La Liga titles and two Champions League triumphs.

He ran in the 2015 elections but was emphatically beaten by incumbent Bartomeu.

Bartomeu was arrested last Monday in a Catalan police probe related to allegations of improper management and business corruption which also saw the club’s Camp Nou offices raided. He has not commented on his arrest and made use of his right not to give a statement in court. ($1 = 0.8389 euros)

World Cup Qatar 2022™

FIFA can confirm that following discussions with our South American Member Associations in conjunction with CONMEBOL and taking into consideration the existing volatility around travel and quarantine restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it has decided to postpone the South American qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ that were due to be played in March 2021. Details on the updated schedule will be provided in due course.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 22

Tuesday March 09, 2021

Orinduik Development Inc. & Aquafina/GuyanaNRA Smallbore Action Pistol Match

Dr. Johan DaSilva, Lennox Braithwaite & Rajiv Latchana are A, B & C Class winners

T

he Smallbore Section of the Guyana National Rifle Shooting Association (GuyanaNRA) fired off their 2021 season in style on Sunday last at the Timehri Rifle Ranges with an Action Pistol Match sponsored by Orinduik

Development Inc. and Aquafina.

When the sand was settled at the Ranges after five competitive Stages, Dr. Johan DaSilva amassed 309 points to win the A-Class competition from Azad Hassan (291 points) and Satya Dayaram who ended

on 284 points.

Dr. DaSilva won StageThree with 40 points as opposed to Dayaram’s 33 and Hassan’s, 32. Stage-Five also went to Dr. DaSilva who tallied 90 points, Hassan 78 and Dayaram 70. Stage-One s a w D r. D a S i l v a a n d Dayaram ending on 126

points apiece with Hassan one point back on 125.

Stage-Two was taken by Hassan with 25 points, Dr. DaSilva and Dayaram totaled 15 each. Dayaram ruled the roost in Stage-Four with 40 points ahead of Dr. DaSilva with 38 and Hassan’s 31.

Much more known for his exploits with the Rifle as a top shot in Guyana and the Caribbean while holding his own further afield, Lennox Braithwaite won the B-Class shoot with a total of 280 points from fellow rifleman Roberto Tiw ari w ho managed 274 points with the third place going to Joshua Ramlakan with 270 points.

Braithwaite got off to a fine start with victory in Stage-One, tallying 134 points to Ramlakan’s 129 a n d Ti w a r i ’s , 11 6 .

Braithwaite maintained his hold even though he shared

the top spot in Stage-Two with Ramlakan (25 points each) with Tiwari managing 10.

Tiwari and Ramlakan shared the spoils for StageThree with 34 points apiece, Braithwaite accumulated 25.

Braithwaite was back to winning ways in Stage-Four putting together 43 points to Ramlakan’s 34 and Tiwari’s, 32.

Stage-Five went to Tiwari who racked up 82 points ahead of B r a i t h w a i t e ’s 5 3 a n d Ramlakan who got 48.

The C-Class was ruled

by Rajiv Latchana who won with 269 points, leaving in 2nd place, Yonelle DeAbreu (261) and Stefan John with 245. After falling four points behind after Stage-One which was taken by De Abreu (114 points), John (106); Latchana ensured he was more accurate hitting

the target as he ended on 25points with DeAbreu at the end of Stage-Two; John managed 15.

Stage-Three went to Latchana with 40 points, DeAbreu 31 and John 19.

Latchana and John ended Stage-Four with 39 points apiece and DeAbreu, 31.

Stage-Five was taken by John who fired his way to 66 points, Latchana 61 and DeAbreu, 60.

The top three shooters in each of the three classes were rewarded with trophies, compliments of Orinduik Development Inc. and Aquafina.

GuyanaNRA Smallbore Capotain, Dale Hing expressed thanks to the sponsor and all eth shooters for making the opening event for 2021 a resounding success whilst promising that the season would be a very hectic one.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 09, 2021

Campbell scores ton as Chase’s XI reach 280 for 7 on Day 1 of Windies practice match

S

portsMax – John Campbell scored a patient century yesterday as Chase’s XI reached 280 for 7 at stumps of the first day of the fourday practice match against Brathwaite’s XI at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

Campbell, who is hoping to retain his place in the West Indies team for the Test series against Sri Lanka later this month, scored 129 from 253 balls from which he hit 15 fours and three sixes in his more than five-hour stay at the crease.

He partnered with

Captain Roston Chase to put on a fourth-wicket stand of 183 after Jayden Seales and Preston McSween had combined to reduce the side to 53-3. Seales accounted for the wickets of Shayne Moseley for three and Sunil Ambris for a duck to have Chase XI in trouble early at 12 for 2.

Campbell and Nkrumah Bonner then put on 41 for the third wicket before McSween dismissed the latter for 16.

Campbell and Chase took the score to 236 when Chase fell to Kavem Hodge for 75. He struck 10 fours in

the innings that lasted for 208 minutes during which he faced 159 deliveries.

Campbell eventually fell to the bowling of Rahkeem Cornwall after he and Jermaine Blackwood had put on 16 for the sixth wicket.

Blackwood, meantime, remained unbeaten on 18 at the close. Imran Khan is with him on three.

Seales, who also dismissed Raymon Reifer for 2, was the best of the bowlers taking 3-42 while McSween, who claimed the wickets of Bonner and Jahmar Hamilton returned figures of 2-40.

Big Man Cricket Tournament not approved by GCB An Official Release by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has informed that, “The GCB hereby takes this opportunity to reliably inform all County Boards, t h e i r a f f i l i a t e associations/Committees and their subsidiary clubs that to date, any cricket tournament being held under the auspices of Big Man Cricket and/or under or for a body purporting to represent the “ Big Man Cricket” is Not approved by the GCB.” The release further informed, “It should

be noted that the GCB finds it highly disturbing that there appears to be continued attempts to conduct Big Man Cricket tournament(s) that is/are not approved by the GCB. The GCB views the aligned actions of individuals so interested in hosting such tournament(s) as subverting the role and responsibility of the GCB by preparing to organize and manage the purported tournament(s), as well as the probable hosting of a cricket tournament which may

attract regional teams.”

“This is highly unacceptable and the GCB is not prepared to have the formation of bodies subverting its obligations and interest. As a consequence, the GCB feels oblique to communicate the i n f o r m a t i o n aforementioned, so that the relevant representatives of cricket entities can be cognizant of the GCB’s present position on “BIG M a n C r i c k e t Tournament(s)”, the release concluded.

Laporta elected FC Barcelona’s president, sends message to Messi B A R C E L O N A (Reuters) - Barcelona members have elected Joan Laporta as club president on Sunday, turning to the man who oversaw one of their most successful periods to lead them out of an institutional and financial crisis.

Laporta, who was Barca president between 2003 and 2010, won a resounding 54.28% of total votes, while Victor Font came second with 29.99% and Toni Freixa was third with 8.58%.

Laporta, 58, succeeds Josep Maria Bartomeu, who resigned as president in October to avoid facing a vote of no confidence from members who turned on him after Lionel Messi tried to leave the club last August and the team were beaten 8-2

by Bayern Munich in the

Champions League.

Messi was among several Barca players to vote in the election a day after winning 2-0 at Osasuna to go second in La Liga.

Barca said 51,765 out of 109,531 eligible members had voted in the election, which was postponed from January due to coronavirus restrictions in Catalonia. A total of 30,184 people voted for Laporta.

Laporta celebrated his victory by singing the club’s anthem with his campaign team and sipping champagne before giving his victory speech, in which he gave a special mention to captain and all-time top scorer Messi, who has less than four months left on his contract with Barca.

“Twenty years ago a little boy called Leo Messi made

his debut with Barca’s youth team. Seeing the best player in the world come out to vote today is a clear sign of what we keep saying. Leo loves Barca,” Laporta said.

“The best player in the world loves Barca and I hope that is a sign that he will stay at Barcelona, which is what we all want.”

HUGE FINANCIAL PROBLEMS Laporta takes over a club with huge financial problems due to the COVID19 pandemic eliminating ticket revenue and badly hitting merchandising income.

Barca’s last accounts showed a gross debt of more than 1.4 billion euros ($1.67 billion) with a net debt of 488 million euros. The club agreed a temporary player (Continued on page 19)

PAGE 23

Rockaway Group of Companies presents cricket equipment to WCC Rockaway Group of Companies on Sunday last presented a quantity of cricket equipment to the Wa k e n a a m C r i c k e t Committee.

The equipment which include bats, pads and gloves were presented to the Secretary of the WCC Nazeer Mohamed by CEO of Rockaway Group of Companies Hafeez Ali. Ali was part of the Everest Masters team which took on Wakenaam Masters in a limited overs fixture at the Wakenaam Community Centre ground.

Ali said he is pleased to give back to the society and urged the youths present to remain committed to both their education and cricket.

He noted the importance of discipline and pledged his continued support. Mohamed expressed gratitude to Ali

CEO of Rockaway Group of Companies Hafeez Ali (2nd from right) along with CEO of V Net Communications Safraz Sheriffudeen (2nd from left), WCC Secretary Nazeer Mohamed and Mrs. Ali display the equipment.

and said the equipment will be of tremendous benefit to the youths on the island.

Also present was CEO of

V Net Communications Safraz Sheriffudeen who like Mohamed thanked Ali for his kind gesture.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

Tuesday March 09, 2021

Guyana highest ranked team for FIBA WC Americas Pre-Qualifier

G

uyana’s senior men’s basketball team have been confirmed as one of the four National Basketball Federations that will be competing in the first round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Americas Pre- Qualifier in the city of San Salvador, El Salvador.

The competition dates has also been confirmed as April14-18, 2021 which is one week later that previously communicated.

The competition schedule has been adjusted to allow for the completion of the FIBA Basketball Champions League Americas (BCLA) to allow National Federations to field their best teams to participate in the first round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup - Americas PreQualifier.

Te a m G u y a n a i s expected to arrive in San Salvador April 12th and depart April 19th. The competition format will be Round Robin and the top three (3) teams will advance to the second round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup - Americas Pre- Qualifier in July 2021.

The teams that will be participating in the FIBA Basketball World Cup Americas Pre-Qualifier first round are: • Costa Rica (CRC) • Guyana (GUY) • El Salvador (ESA) • Nicaragua (NCA) Guyana will be the highest ranked team in this pre-qualifying competition according to the latest FIBA World Rankings. Guyana’s highest achieved rank was 98 in late November 2020

Guyana national men’s side are now ranked 100 in the world.

and has since fell two spots due to the lack of international competition.

FIBA World Rankings (WR) presented by Nike: • Guyana (GUY) – WR 100 • Costa Rica (CRC) WR - 106 • Nicaragua (NCA) – WR 116 • El Salvador (ESA) – WR - 133 FIBA Americas Regional Office has provided the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) a comprehensive package outlining the requirements and deadlines for completing and uploading the required documents into the

competition portal including the Eligibility of Players, Preliminary Delegation List (maximum of 24), Team Doctor, Covid-19 Compliance Team Official, Pre-Travel PCR Test Results and Uniform Artwork.

FIBA has also communicated that at FIBA’s discretion, doping checks can be performed at any of the venues of the event, whether at competition venue, training venues or hotel, during competition time and that Team Guyana must comply with any anti-doping officer according to Article 2 of the FIBA Internal Regulations, Book 4 that oversee Anti-

Doping Rule Violations. All of the GABF’s players are mandated to complete the

WADA Whereabouts form as mandated by the GABF and the Guyana Olympic

Association - National AntiDoping Organization (GOA/ NADO).

NAFICO on board with BIG MAN CRICKET

Vikash Persaud (right), representative of NALICO /NAFICO hands over the sponsorship cheque to Chairman of BMC, Raj Singh.

N

orth American Fire & General Insurance C o m p a n y Limited (NAFICO) of Regent & Hinck Streets, Georgetown is the latest entity to join the growing list of sponsors of BIG MAN CRICKET which tournament is scheduled to commence on Saturday, March, 13th 2021.

North American Life Insurance Company Limited

(Nalico) and North American Fire and General Insurance Company Limited (Nafico) are two of the largest life and general insurance companies with fifteen (15) branches across Guyana.

Nalico and Nafico are wholly owned subsidiaries of the Edward B Beharry & Co. Ltd. Nalico offers a wide range of Life, Health, Pension and Annuity products. (Nafico offers a

wide range of Property, Liability and Motor Insurance products.

Mr. Basil Mahadeo, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer readily agreed to cosponsor this BIG MAN CRICKET tournament since he believe it would help to get our senior cricketers more actively involved in the game of cricket which ultimately would lead to healthier lifestyles and enhancement of community.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday March 09, 2021

PAGE 25

GFF celebrates International Women’s Day with call for change

T

he Guyana F o o t b a l l Federation (GFF) commemorated International Women’s Day (IWD) with a challenge to society to change the way it perceives and treats women, and by issuing a call for more girls and women to participate in football.

Observed on March 8th, IWD is an opportunity for communities to honour the social, economic, cultural, a n d p o l i t i c a l accomplishments of women around the world.

This year’s theme is “choose to challenge”, with a special focus on calling out gender bias and inequality, c e l e b r a t i n g w o m e n ’s achievements and working together to create an inclusive world.

“International Women’s Day brings awareness to the achievements of women across the globe without regard for race, religion, culture, language or anything that divides us,” said GFF Third Vi c e - P r e s i d e n t a n d attorney-at-law Thandi McAllister, adding that her wish for IWD was “a cure for misogyny”.

“Having established that the contributions of women

Andrea Johnson

Thandi McAllister

are indeed invaluable, I’m happy that there is a day set a s i d e f o r t h e acknowledgement and celebration of women and their everyday sacrifices, contributions and achievements in every sector,” McAllister, who serves on the Caribbean Football Union Legal Committee, said.

“Men are not the competition,” she said.

“Yes, they may have set standards for the game, but not yours, for their own game. You’re entitled to play like a girl, win, lose or draw - just play.”

Andrea Johnson, President of the Guyana National Women’s Football Association, said “one woman can make a

difference, but together we can rock the world.”

“I am grateful to be a woman. I must have done something great in another life,” she said.

“Feminism isn’t about making a woman stronger; women are already strong.

It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.Eleanor Roosevelt once said, ‘No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.’”

“It is the vision that men and women should be treated equality in social, economic and all other aspects of society, and not to be discriminated against because of gender,” she added.

As part of its observance, the GFF has also produced a series of video interviews

Local World Archery Americas official sends Women’s Day message as logo competition launched In a message from Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon, Chairperson of the Gender Equity Committee of World Archery Americas, the Guyanese executive noted, “Today (yesterday) marks International Women’s Day, and as such, our Gender Equity Committee wishes to commemorate this important date by launching our “Logo Competition”. We welcome participation in this fun Competition from all the men, women, boys and girls in the Americas. Whether you are a NOC Member, an Association Executive, a Judge, Coach, Athlete, School child, a general member of the public, this Competition is for you.”

In her message she gave details of the logo competition: “The Panel will be looking at a Logo for the WAA Gender Equity Committee that will encompass promoting Archery as a sport for everyone: men and women in the Americas. As such, your Logo design should express equity, archery, inclusion, and the Americas all together under one depiction.

And what will the winner be receiving?

Bragging rights of course for what will become a familiar Logo used across the Americas! We know that will be enough for the winner, but we wish to add and offer a US$100.00 monetary prize for the Winner.”

Entries for the competition can be sent to email genderequitywaa@gmail.com on or

with young female footballers aimed at encouraging more girls and women to participate in the sport.

U 2 0 a n d U 1 7 international midfielder Shamya Daniels stars in one of the videos which were shared on the GFF’s social media channels on Monday – a day dedicated to women’s football.

“Any sport you play – it’s not just a game that men only can play; women can go out there and prove everyone else wrong,” Daniels said. “I would like to encourage all the young girls and women out there to come out and play the sport and just enjoy it while you do it.”

This year, the Senior Women’s National Team is scheduled to take part in FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers in October and November, while the U20 team participates in Concacaf U20 Women’s Championship qualifiers in September and the U17s compete in the Concacaf U17 Women’s Championship in August. The GFF will also host its U15 squad in a camp to prepare for regional competition next year.

Depending on the

Shamya Daniels

COVID-19 pandemic and approvals from the authorities, the GFF have approved the following domestic women’s football activities this year: the GFFAlways Women’s Development League, the Rupununi Wo m e n ’ s L e a g u e , a Regional Association w o m e n ’s d e v e l o p m e n t tournament, and Regional Association girls’ football

development festivals.

The Federation is also planning a series of school pilot projects, including a U15 tournament in West Demerara, a U13 tournament in Upper Demerara, and U11 and U9 tournaments in the East Bank/Georgetown region.

Once successfully completed, these tournament models would be expanded to other regions.

Kildonan Cricket Club elects new office bearers

Newly elected executives of the Kildonan Cricket club.

Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon before the deadline for submission being May 21, 2021 which coincidentally will be World Day for Cultural Diversity. Designs must be submitted in .jpg or .png format with a minimum of 1500 px.

The Kildonan Cricket Club of Corentyne Berbice recently held their Annual General Meeting and election of Office Bearers at the club’s office at Kildonan Corentyne Berbice.

At the end of the activity, which was supervised by Berbice Cricket Board President, Hilbert Foster, who also served as the Returning Officer, a number of persons were elected to serve for the 2021/ 2022 period. Those elected to serve are President, Pastor Quacy Henry; he will have as his Vice President Patrick Rodrigues, while Aubrey Collins is the Secretary.

The Treasurer is Qualis Winter with the

Assistant Secretary/Treasurer being Natasha Brusch.

There are four committee members in Godfrey Mendonca, Dawn Kyte, Colin Moore and Derrice Mendonca.

Foster urged the executives to lift the standard of Kildonan Cricket and committed himself to assisting as much as possible.

The BCB President also handed over three special prizes for a fund raising raffle.

He took the opportunity to encourage overseas based former residents of the village to get in contact with the new executives to assist. (Samuel Whyte)