K
AIETEUR Five members from NEWS
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
Thursday Edition May 07, 2020 - Vol. 13 No. 18
one family in Linden test positive for COVID-19
Online: www.kaieteurnews.com
p. 12
- children aged 12 and one among patients
Price $80
Online readership yesterday 162,152
Recount kicks off with hiccups and complaints p. 3
GECOM's audio live stream of no use Region one ballot box soaked APNU+AFC agents report discrepancies Coalition engaged in delaying tactics - PPP Containers with the ballot boxes being opened by GECOM officials (DPI photo)
The ballot boxes being taken to the Convention centre (DPI photo)
Juvenile prisoners Liza Phase One to overpower police, produce 120,000 - five free colleagues recaptured barrels by June p. 11
p. 12
Western Diplomats and Commonwealth call for
p. 12
full transparency of recount
Kaieteur News
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Thursday May 07, 2020
COVID-19 cases in Guyana, other territories relatively small but curve not flattening - IDB
T
he Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has noted in its latest quarterly bulletin that the number of COVID-19 cases in the Caribbean is relatively small when compared to other territories but the institution, it appears, is concerned that the curve is not flattening. As of April 12, last, the Bank said that 350 cases had been reported in six Caribbean countries examined in its report. These countries are Guyana, Suriname, the Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago. The Bank noted that the domestic economic impact directly related to the disease is very difficult to predict, while noting that obviously, it depends on the direct measures under way in each country to combat the spread. The financial institution stated in its analysis that faceto-face service sectors are experiencing a sharp decline as businesses are ordered closed and consumers are
required to stay at home. It said, too, that both supply and demand are effectively shut down. In tourism-dependent economies, the bank said that this exacerbates the decline in tourism arrivals, while in commodity-dependent economies like Guyana, this amplifies the impact of the decline of commodity prices on government revenues. The IDB said that creative solutions through technology can help, ranging from safely prepared food delivery to virtual legal advice, online education, and a host of other possibilities. But still, the short-term impact is severe, the bank said. Further to this, it said, “Social distancing measures are obviously necessary to save lives, which are the most important priority for governments all around the world. From an economic perspective, people represent a valuable economic asset. If these economies can emerge from the immediate crisis
with their human capital stock intact, then long-term economic growth will still be viable. This human capital stock has an economic value that is multiples of the value of
annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP).” That said, the Bank noted that the region is still in the early stages of the virus, and the numbers are still small, even relative to the small
populations of the Caribbean countries. But the troubling fact it alluded to was that the curve is not flattening yet. On this note, the IDB categorically stated that the key to saving lives and the
associated human capital they bring to economies is to “flatten the curve” in terms of avoiding an exponential infection rate, which could overwhelm national health systems.
Security guard, father of 9, shot dead after telling customer to put on face mask (USA Today) Calvin Munerlyn, a father of nine, was gunned down after turning a customer away for trying to enter a Family Dollar in Michigan without a mask, according to authorities. Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton
charged three suspects in the murder – Sharmel Teague, 45; Larry Edward Teague, 44; and Ramonyea Bishop, 23. "Decisions like staying home when we can, wearing a mask when going to the store and staying a safe (continued on page 15)
SLAIN GUARD: Calvin Munerlyn
CHARGED: Sharmel Teague
Kaieteur News
Thursday May 07, 2020
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Recount kicks off with hiccups and complaints Coalition engaged in delaying tactics - PPP
APNU+AFC agents report discrepancies
GECOM's audio live stream of no use
Region one ballot box soaked
Recount stakeholders lined up at the centre early in the morning
T
he National Recount of votes kicked off with a slow, late start yesterday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. Stakeholders and the media corps were outside of the venue hours before the slated start time of 8:00 am. However, the entrance of all stakeholders took hours, due to need for police officers and officials of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to check each entrant to the venue for security threats, temperature checks, accreditation, and to ensure they were heeding the COVID-19 safety precautions. Sanitisation exercises are being conducted at intervals every few hours, even after everyone leaves, Ward told the press yesterday. This is meant to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all involved. When most of the stakeholders were let into the venue, the Chair, Claudette Singh, made general remarks, then allowed the Chief Elections Officer, Keith
Lowenfield to conduct a briefing. By the end of the first hour, presidential candidate of The Citizenship Initiative, Rhonda-Ann Lam said that teams had already spread out to their respective stations. The audio streams of the count are available on the Guyana Elections Commission's (GECOM) Facebook page. But as the count ensued at each of the 10 work stations, the audio-only broadcast was practically inaudible to the listening public, and received very few shares and reactions on Facebook. GECOM also failed to provide photos of the ballot boxes in the state they were delivered to the work stations, as catered for in the gazetted legal order for the recount, which would have assured the public that the ballot boxes were not tampered with. Commissioner Vincent Alexander commented on the issue of streaming from inside of the Conference Centre. According to him, concerns were expressed about a media
house which volunteered to live stream the recount in its entirety. However, they were only allowed into the Centre to take photographs, but these pictures contained the identity of GECOM workers and were posted on social media. This, he stressed was one of the key reasons why the recount is not being live streamed, to avoid exposing the workers to a hostile environment. That prohibition, he noted was made explicitly clear prior to the recount. Speaking to the press yesterday, AFC executive David Patterson said that GECOM had to allow each party to have a representative in the workstations. Kaieteur News understands that there was a slight delay of the start of the count even then because, according to Patterson and Ward, one party could not locate the keys to unlock certain containers. But PPP presidential candidate, Irfaan Ali and LJP presidential candidate, Lenox Shuman said that the issue
Kingston oil spill contained - GPL
T
he Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) says that it managed to contain an oil spill at Kingston yesterday and an investigation to be conducted. “An oil spill was discovered today, May 6th, 2020 within the compound of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL Inc.) Kingston Power Complex. A
small amount of the spill seeped into the Demerara River,” the state-owned power company said. Since the discovery, GPL said its personnel expedited industry standard safety, health and environmental procedures to contain the spill. “The general public is hereby reassured that GPL's efforts to contain the spill have thus far proven
successful.” Officials said that spill came from an old oil storage tank. The piping system had started to leak. “GPL wishes to advise the general public that our company embraces industry standard fuel management practices and a thorough investigation will be conducted to prevent a reoccurrence,” GPL said.
was that the locks were inoperable because they had been on the container for a very long time. Patterson said that, as a result, the chains had to be cut. Patterson also said that there were about 300 people in the compound, including persons entitled to witness the c o u n t , G E C O M s t a ff , caterers, security and medical personnel. PPP executive Anil Nandlall met with reporters early on and hopes the
process runs smoothly. REGION ONE BALLOT BOX SOAKED There were reports coming out of the centre that the contents of a certain ballot box may be in jeopardy. At midday, Ward confirmed reports that water had seeped into a Region One ballot box. She said that the box likely collected water over time from rain, due to how it was positioned under a hole
in the container it was housed in. GECOM has drained the box and is in the process of trying to dry the contents. It appears to be the only ballot box that had water in it. 'GUYANESE CRITIC' REFUSED ACCESS AFTER BEING ACCREDITED TWICE Mikhail Rodrigues, more popularly known as 'Guyanese Critic' yesterday (continued on page 17)
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Thursday May 07, 2020
Kaieteur News
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
How to react to World Bank’s aid slight We will be dispassionate in this attempt at seeking some answers on the questions of aid for Guyana. As we search for some light in this troubling and the long silence, now broken, relative to aid not forthcoming, this will be lacking in anything critical. The issues of delay or actual nonapproval loom large and ominous. In this time of crisis, and many related ones, we need relief most urgently, yet none comes. It could be that, since the whole world is seriously affected by the COVID-19 virus, that the World Bank and other agencies of like stature are overwhelmed and working as swiftly as they can to dig out from the huge backlog of applications from all corners of the globe; it has with some ninety-three countries seeking urgent pandemic help. Now comes this revelation in the title of a story, “Guyana not among 93 countries benefiting from World Bank COVID19 aid” (KN May 6). This is nothing indirect or inconsequential in this unwanted news, not with so many here, who are hoping for any kind of immediate relief. This news is made even starker when another development is considered. The headline of KN’s April 29 announced to the world that, “IMF grants US$65.6M for Dominica, Grenada, and St. Lucia to address COVID-19 pandemic.”Those countries are from within region, which begs the question: if those can be approved to receive much needed and timely assistance, what happened to us? In spite of our most determined efforts to put the best light on this, it must be said that this is not looking good. Though we know where we stand now, we don’t know why this is so.For in that same April 29 KN article, it was pointed out that though Guyana did not (yet) apply to the IMF, its “application to the World Bank for US$5M under its Rapid Response Emergency Facility…is still being processed over a month after the application was made.” The article also indicated that “Finance Minister, Winston Jordan has said that other multilateral agencies, of which Guyana is a member, have also been approached.” A number of points jumped out. That World Bank Facility referred to and applied to is specifically dedicated to those “Emergency” situations requiring a “Rapid Response” yet in the instance of Guyana, over 30 days later, comes this grim news. Clearly, what Guyana has is a genuine emergency by any definition, and we are being bypassed, when the most rapid of responses is required. Though it may be damned as speculative, every rational inclination is to link to elections impasses. How can it not be?In words from the Finance Minister we know that “other multilateral agencies…have also been approached.” All Guyana would be extremely interested in learning what is happening from those fronts also. What has been the response(s) from them? In the circumstances, silence is not golden, but reeks of the cautioning (at best) and of the menacing (at worst). Whichever it is, this is not comforting. We also know that neighbouring Venezuela had applied for international assistance, but it has been denied. Currently, none of the agencies approached has come straight out and say “no” to Guyana’s requests for help. It could be there is some backchannel communication, which is preferred not to publicize. It may be the jawboning of, to borrow a central bank term, moral suasion. It could be that all such requests from Guyana have been placed on indefinite hold, pending local developments. That is, to allow time and opportunity for matters in our realm to develop, finalize, and regularize. We have gone to great lengths not to say little about politics or elections. Nonetheless, all circumstances considered, this has been one hell of a long process on the part of several agencies and a still longer wait by Guyana for whatever may come its way. To that we must add, if anything at all, since that also could be in play. Meanwhile, a later caption from KN read, “US serious on threat of sanctions if elections results not credible “We stand by our word” -US Ambassador” (KN May 2). Something is up, and it is not positive. Things are happening.
What we vitally need are conversations DEAR EDITOR, As Guyana continues to grapple with two unfortunate situations, post-election neurosis and the onslaught of a serious biological threat COVID-19, the need to uphold a firm stance on proper electoral procedures and safeguarding ourselves from contracting the virus are of paramount importance to the nation’s overall welfare. There is a difference of cause between the two: the former is a product of intentional self-infliction, while the latter due to uncontrollable circumstances. I believe this period of uncertainty and public solitude offers us opportunity to reflect upon the conditions of our society, what foundation it stands on and what must be done to propel the country forward. For me, it begins with an examination of Guyanese history with an open mind and solidarity kept intact. However, our history has been heavily politicized by the major political parties with narrowness and contrived pro-
paganda. A consequence of this has led to the demonization of cherished Guyanese leaders who fought mutually and cooperatively to attain liberty and independence (prerequisites of sovereignty) for this country. Because of this, we have seen further segregation between two of Guyana’s major race groups—Indos and Afros— both of which have contributed immensely to laying the foundations of this beloved nation. Fortunately, there is currently an ongoing programme broadcasted on the Globespan 24x7 Facebook page titled ‘A Divided Nation’ aired every Wednesday featuring Dr. Baytoram Ramharack as host, Dr. David Hinds and Mr. Ravi Dev as guests discussing aspects of Guyanese history and connecting these with our contemporary or recent social and political difficulties. These individuals have written wonderful literature on the challenges of Guyanese politics, including themes on identity, inclusion, represen-
tation, and good governance. Dr. Ramharack had written a paper titled ‘Consociational Democracy: A Democratic Option for Guyana’ in which he argues consociationalism—a theory of establishing cooperation among ethnic or religious elites for power sharing— would suitably reduce political turmoil in Guyana that has historically been deadlocked along ethnic tension. Dr. Hinds had proposed similar sentiments still to this day favouring power sharing as a viable mechanism, a justification of his that can be read in his paper ‘Problems of Democratic Transition in Guyana: Mistakes and Miscalculations in 1992’. Their ideas can be contentious and power sharing construed by these individuals, and others, remains debatable. I disagree with power sharing proposals that seek to enshrine established political elites who have demonstrably contributed to heightened social turmoil and ethnic/racial tensions, not to mention
debased virtues and political ills of corruption and nepotism, which has devalued the ideal of nationhood. I would propose we consider some form of participatory democracy as a suitable alternative in our discourse about the political future of Guyana, a system that will empower citizens, not their already powerful representatives, into the governance structure. Ordaining integration, not institutionalized segregation (the de facto), can work. Ultimately, as Guyanese we owe to each other the humility to listen and the courage to dive into our history to learn about who we are that could assist us with our collective identity. Additionally, it is one thing to say we deserve better but another to justify our cry. For instance, what norms or virtues work in the interest of all, not just me or my group? What we vitally need are conversations that could help us discover what betterment looks like. Yours faithfully, Ferlin F. Pedro
That Carter Center blockage - a thoroughly with those governments that president and his inner circle: losing proposition violate current international rethink and rebalance. Look DEAR EDITOR, No matter how I look at this, I am unable to foresee how the caretaker coalition could emerge unsullied from this one re blocking the return of the Carter Center team of observers. For in this instance of the irresistible force (international community) arrayed and moving against the coalition administration (Guyana), something is going to have to give. As I think of this, it is going to have to be the coalition in easing its position; there is no other way, with matters now assembled at this unforgiving pass. I am sure, and I agree, that the coalition would point to and settle for the rights of Guyana as a sovereign nation to be masters of its own destiny; to identify those who are unhelpful to its interests (the country’s, not that of the party); and that it reserves the right to take such action as it deems necessary to protect its dignity and its interests. Again, that would be the selling point of the country, as piloted by the coalition. It may go so far as to resist and buck the forces assembled against it by pulling out that once long used, but now in need of some dusting off, ace in the hole called colonialism. That appealed to and appealing trump card, also locally empowering, of the return of naked and rank colonialism under the sheens of democracy, transparency, and credibility is sure to gain traction
in some fevered local circles. I think it is going down the wrong road with the wrong posture at the wrong time. Like the many far flung national resistances against anti money-laundering standards and narcotics smuggling, the dredging up and returning to colonial (under whatever camouflage it comes) is a losing proposition. And that is any way I look at this development. The coalition just cannot win this fight, as too many big, baaad dogs are gathered against it. Determined dogs, they are; mad ones, too. I hope that it would reconsider and early. I say this because the world has changed in both scale and degree relative to the intensity of the priorities insisted upon by the international community to reorder the world. As I see it, it is to reorder the world according to Western, but particularly American, philosophies and visions. The existences and rules of smaller and poorer nations today are dictated to by such ingredients-indeed, requirements-as human rights and democratic rights, which (to some extent) have pushed aside the earlier domestic insistences about sovereign rights and objections to what was called internal meddling and foreign influence and foreign interference. Though I still hold high regard for those elements, I recognize the world for what it is today, which is that partnerships
governance rules are no longer permissible; they will be held accountable. They will be made to pay a harsh price. This objection, this blockage, is not winnable; not in the least. Thus, I plead with the coalition and its leader(s) that there must be sifting through what is a pile-up developing at full speed and on the straightest road in the brightest of lights: do not stay too long on this course to disaster; it would be a collision with the catastrophic. There would and could be only one loser. That is Guyana first with the coalition second. Thus, I recommend respectfully to the
for a way out of this untenable situation. I think that way out, if it is at all possible and found to be acceptable, would be to seek a change of faces. By that I mean that the composition of the team be reconfigured; at least, I think that that should be found reasonable, since is almost complete lack of confidence on the coalition’s part that it could get a fair shake. The posture from the coalition side is that some in the Carter Center got so intricately involved locally that it is not a trusted mediator. That may be denounced, but (Continued on page 6)
Cde. Feroze will be missed by the PPP family DEAR EDITOR, In paying tribute to the late Feroze Mohamed, former President Donald Ramotar in a letter to the press highlighted a number of outstanding qualities he possessed. Feroze, as he is fondly called by those who knew him, was known for his modesty, integrity and humility despite his stature as a top leader of the PPP. He was Education Secretary of the Party for quite a number of years during which he contributed to the political and ideological development of a countless number of Party Comrades. He was passionate about education. He was the PPP’s spokesman on Education in Parliament where he once famously remarked ‘ if education is too costly, try ignorance’. Cde. Feroze will be missed by the PPP family for his wise counsel and advise on important issues both at the national and international levels. I have personally benefitted from his encouragement and guidance in so many ways. I take this opportunity to convey my deepest condolences to his bereaved family and friends. May his soul rest in peace! Hydar Ally
Thursday May 07, 2020
IS TRANSPORTATION NOT AN ESSENTIAL? DEAR EDITOR, I find what the COVID task force and the Ministry of Public Health is doing to the transportation services is very inconsiderate, both to the public and the transportation sector. They have put in place a curfew, with exception to the essential with which I agree. Now the question comes to mind, is transportation not essential? I think it is essential. As such both private and public transportation should be allowed to operate beyond the curfew or at least they should have a different curfew. I would recommend 22:00 hrs (10:00 pm). That would give everybody enough time to get home or to get to work for those shift workers. I know it must be really hard for those workers leaving work at 19:00 hrs (7:00 pm) or 20:00 hrs (8:00 pm) to get home. With no buses on the road or you have to wait for hours for one due to the ministry curfew. The ministry only caters for one set of people that is the nurses. I am very grateful also for the nurses and all the frontline workers and also the workers who are not at the frontline but play a vital role in the fight as well and those are the persons that the ministry forget about or don’t take into consideration. A special thanks to you guys as well. They are the biomedical techs (a set of people who nobody knows exist), the lab techs, the securities and the
cleaners, the pharmacist and the attendant, just to name a few. Back to the issue at hand, most of these persons have a shift system and finish work at 7:00 pm. Now how are they getting home? Or how are the frontline workers getting to work for a 7:00 pm or 8:00 pm shift? I am calling on the ministry to implement and put proper measures in place to cater for everyone and not just one set of people. At 6:30 the park is usually crowded with people. My question is how are they getting home when the task force is sending home the buses at 6:00 pm? Public transportation is already taking half their capacity now they have to come off the road early as well. That is only putting pressure on both the transportation services and the public. Also that would not stop or prevent the spread of the COVID -19 virus because you have more persons at the parks congested and if by chance a bus goes into the park, they are putting 3 in a seat because everybody wants to go home. So I don’t see how sending home the buses at 6:00 pm help the stop of the COVID-19 virus. I hope somebody who has the power to change the situation is reading this and can do something about this situation. My recommendation is to let the buses work until 10:00 pm that is ample time for all works to reach to work and to get home from work. Regards, Tom H. Jones
Let us commit to finding and using necessary ethno-labels DEAR EDITOR, Why do Guyanese keep on describing Guyanese as AFRICANS and INDIANS? The two words continue to incorrectly point out that we are from different countries. If the use of the words are because our fore-parents came from those two countries, then how far back to our roots should we go? Why stop at Africa and India? As man evolved in Africa, should we all be Africans? According to the Bible, Adam and Eve were in Iraq, so should we all be classed as Iraqis? Over time, people ended up in different parts of the world, formed new communities, gave name to the land they occupied, and are referred to by the names
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of their countries. Their identities are closely linked to the names of their countries. Why is it different for Guyanese? At this time when there are increasing calls for oneness and inclusivity, should we not find appropriate words that assert our Guyanese identity when we talk about each other? Words are very important. Though we may not have the use of perfect words, we should try and find those which best explain what we mean. When it is necessary to differentiate between the subgroups, Afro-Guyanese and Indo-Guyanese seem better choices. Since my Irish born wife became a naturalized Guyanese, she is affectionately referred to as
Guy-Rish. Maybe Guy-African and Guy –Indian are more appropriate ethnic labels. Let us commit to finding and using necessary ethnolabels to the benefit of our NATION. Nuff respect to our Mixed and Amerindian folks. Yours sincerely, FaiyaZ Alli
Guyanese say sanctions needed as deterrent against repeated Fraud DEAR EDITOR, Recount has commenced. But will it lead to the right result that would reflect the will of the voters? Mingo is gone. But there could be other Mingos among those doing the recount. And the CEO Lowenfield, who prepared a final report using the fraudulent count, is still there. Guyanese are not assured there would not be a repeat of what transpired at GECOM (Ashmin building and headquarter)? What could deter another fraudulent count? I have interacted with Guyanese at home and abroad and local and foreign observers for their views on the recount process and on threatened sanctions against those involved in the rigging of the original count. Almost everyone in agreement that those who partook and or conspired in the count rigging must face sanctions now so as to deter others from fouling up the recount. Otherwise, they said, there would be a repeat of what transpired on March 4 and March 13. As they commented, threats of consequences on political actors and or intellectual authors of rigging have not had a chilling effect on plotters at GECOM. Actual sanctions (cancellation of visas) against the most egregious actors and connivers of fraud would send a clear message. People have become frustrated and are losing hope in the electoral process. As they noted, there have been too many tweets and media re-
leases about consequences (meaning sanctions). They also note that riggers have not backed down after those threats. The fraudsters show no fear of threats of consequences. They feel actual sanctions (cancellations of visas, seizure and or freezing of assets, etc) would send the right message to political actors and staff at GECOM, and all others involved in the fraud. While one must give the recounting process time to work and the counters an opportunity to demonstrate they would not be participants of rigging, sanctions would send the right message for them to follow the law and do the right thing. While the recounting is going on, nothing stops the international community (Embassies of ABCE countries) and OAS, Caricom and Commonwealth regions from showing it means business on consequences. Mingo and the bared-faced others at Gecom, including those who prepared and are willing to accept a sham report based on a fraudulent certification of SOPs, must be sanctioned. If actual sanctions have been announced, visas cancelled, and other legal actions taken against perpetrators of fraud, the GECOM staff now undertaking the recount would think twice about compromising the recount. Otherwise riggers at GECOM would simply carry out political instructions as happened on March 4 and thereafter. The US, Canada, UK, Eu-
rope are known to have utilized sanctions against actors in so many countries to get desired outcomes especially relating to democratic elections. Threats sometimes worked, but when failed, actual sanctions were undertaken and enforced leading to desired outcome. Guyanese and observers feel there must be implementation of sanctions against fraudsters to send a clear message to deter recounting fraud and to bring a final resolution to the process. Examples are needed in Guyana of those involved in rigging as happened in other countries like Bolivia, Zimbabwe, Kenya, etc. The staff doing recount need to understand and be reminded what are the consequences for any attempted fraud. Aside from international sanctions, staff also need to know that it is against the law and they would be prosecuted for assisting in election rigging or compromising the vote recount. Yours truly Dr. Vishnu Bisram
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Thursday May 07, 2020
Kaieteur News
COVID NEW WORLD ORDER DEAR EDITOR, The US debt is $25 trillion . This debt grew by US$1trillion in 37 days (April 1 to May 7). The US will likely not be able to permanently stop quantitative easy (money creation). The US treasury announced it will barrow an additional US$3 trillion for the second quarter. This level of debt is similar to the US debt after World War 2 but the US is no longer the factory of the world. China executed a coup de grace (death blow to a weak organism). China lowered import from Saudi Arabia and increase its import from Russia. China increased Russia oil import by 30% in March. China import of oil was 9.86 million barrel in March which is a 4.5 % increase compared to last year . Since Saudi
Arabia is the world’s largest exporter of oil and oil price have been around US$20 a barrel for over a month and they need US$80 a barrel to balance their budget, they are extremely vulnerable. The Washington -Rhyad pact is what created, the petrodollar thus ensuring the US dollar world Reserve Status. According to Capital Economics, the budget deficit of Saudi Arabia will increase from 6.4 % to 20% of GDP. Russia is less oil centric than Saudi Arabia but they will be pulverized if oil price remains like this for an extended period of time. Although their debt to GDP ratio is 19.48 % and their foreign reserve is larger than their debt, becoming debt ridden was their downfall in the coldwar so they will be reluctant to
persue that strategy. China is an export driven economy. With the world in a financial crisis that’s comparable to the great depression, people will not be buying much manifactuted goods like television or cars. This geopolitical competition between the US and China is a non zero sum gameone lost is not the others gain; both could lose or both gain. In this global financial crisis triggered by the coronavirus, the country that can efficiently produce food can prosper. The largest percentage of global spending will be on commodities that are too essential to sustain life for a couple years. Guyana should adjust to a Covid and post Covid new world order. It is not business as usual. Your truly, Brian E Plummer
DEATH OF A COMRADE DEAR EDITOR, Death has struck another painful blow to one of the stalwart of the People’s Progressive Party and an unsung hero of our country, Cde Feroze Mohamed. His passing, coming so soon after the demise of Cdes. Komal Chand and Cyril Belgrave, is very grievous. On a personal level Feroze was one of the most decent and modest persons that I have known. He was modest to the extreme, some would say to a fault. He was one of those persons that had political opponents but no personal enemies. He probably had the respect of more PNC persons than any of us. At the same time he was a hard working activist of the PPP, he gave of his all from his youthful days growing up in Canjie. From his days in High school he was captured by the charisma and iron logic of Cheddi Jagan’s argument. Like Cheddi Jagan he dedicated himself to the liberation of Guyana, from colonialism and neo-colonialism. Like Cheddi Jagan, he was an internationalist with a world view that speaks to the liberation of mankind from tyranny and exploitation. He was more than just an activist. He was a deep thinker and a foremost theoretician of the PPP who was universally respected. Cheddi Jagan valued his opinion
greatly. He trained more than a generation of PPP members in political philosophy and in strategy and tactics. Feroze was an organizer per excellence. He played a central role in many of our elections campaign. As a youth in Berbice he participated in the 1961 and 1964 campaigns. In 1968 he was the deputy to Balchand Persaud and two weeks before the 1968 and 1973 elections he was sent to take charge of the campaign in Berbice. From then until the elections of 2006 Feroze was in charge of our elections work. He had a great eye for details and was known to have had several plans at every turn of events. He went to Parliament after the 1973 elections, there too he excelled. He spoke mainly on Education. He championed the cause of students and teachers, he was deeply interested in the promotion of education with a working class bias. It was always a treat to listen to his speeches both inside and outside of Parliament. Indeed, he was a great orator. His speeches were not only well put together, but more importantly, always had deep content. He never just gaff at public fora. One speech that has remained prominent in my mind was the one he delivered during the debate on the 1980 Constitution. I recall when he started speaking, as usual the
National Assembly was somewhat noisy, but very early in his speech a hush descended on the chamber. Feroze’s logic was so compelling that he quieted every one and had the National Assembly enthralled as he spoke. I looked, from the public gallery at Cheddi Jagan’s facial expression. I could see the great pride in his face and at a point when Feroze paused; that famous smile broke across his face and he leaned over in his seat and said to Prime Minister Burnham, “you want to borrow him!” I also worked closely with him in the Progressive Youth Organisation. He was the First Secretary, under whose leadership the PYO was resuscitated after its splits in 1965. He built the PYO as a powerful youth organisation that played a vital role in the fight for free and fair elections and democracy in our country. I recall his contribution at meetings of the Central and Executive Committees of the PYO. He was always profound in his analysis. The youth, under his leadership had a deep understanding of what they were fighting for! He paid close attention to both theory and practice as he strove to create a conscious cadre. He was also a hard task master. At important events, and as chief Parliamentary whip, he demanded discipline and (Continued on page 16)
A Tribute to Comrade Feroze By Clement J. Rohee Do I know the Comrade? Yes! I know the Comrade! Sheik Feroze Mohammed is his name, A youth leader from Canje he came. To fulfill a task the PPP to him did give, knowing his capacities would never go downhill; With youthful exuberance he did lead the charge, a ton of initiatives for the PPP’s influence only to enlarge; Discover he did a shell for an organization he was asked to rebuild, ‘Twas for him to beat, in to shape as if on an anvil. Never failing to make the goal attractive, interactive and pro-active he had to be, if the task at hand he must make impactive politically. Among his Comrades he imparted the wide knowledge he gained, always readily available never with disdain; Theory without practice was anathema to him, ‘Twas a drain to the brain he would not entertain; Many a cadre did he mould, preparing them for the tasks they should, Outstanding were the results the influence of the party did grow, to a wider spread of followers in flow. No place for those who wished to feather bed nor to walk around as if with a swelled head. Of great help to him were the scientific teachings,
Never slavish nor doctrinaire in his ideological leanings, Nay, he would constantly say, the science must always be living, like a rush as it were, of adrenaline, never must a believer end up to be like a faded and discarded, mannequin. Reminded of the famous call “Give me a handful of revolutionaries and I will overturn Russia” With a handful of seasoned comrades the credit to Feroze must go, Rebuilding as if from scratch the PYO youth arm of the party of Guyana’s independence hero. Head of Youth and student organization was he, Champion lecturer at Accabre always on the look out for quality, inviting comments from those who wished to compete, Building contacts for international solidarity, a message he said one day will surely bring reciprocity, Into a mass organization the PYO did grow, an organization blazing the trail with audacity, full of gusto To parliament as an elected member he went, fully prepared to take on a fraudulent government; Speaking eloquently and persuasive as can be, He trumped many a government parliamentarian wannabe; No speaker on education nor ideology was better than he,
Research and preparation the main weapons used he; Theory and practice he skillfully combined, With the history of his country and the PPP thoroughly intertwined; Master of organization no other to find; steadfast yet flexible at meetings was he, but to the classics never a blind eye turned he. Free and fair elections with others he fought, With Feroze in charge of Party elections machinery was never a second thought, victory was certain with sacrifice beyond the call of duty, Every Comrade he called upon to fall in line for the victory. The first Minister of Home Affairs of 1992 was he, executing calmly his duties with patience and tenacity; Known to be a sector perceived as a basket for fetching water, With some justification he requested no longer to serve in an increasingly demanding sector. Some who once fought at his side by the wayside did fall, while others to money and power opportunistically did crawl; Feroze stood tall, never flinching,ever green in the midst of it all, In thought and action wherever he was found to be,a true champion of country and people yet what a terribly modest Comrade was he.
Shabby treatment for professionals DEAR EDITOR, From reports gleaned, the treatment meted out to reporters covering the national recount is not only shabby and disrespectful but tells the esteem to which this group is held.GECOM has to and must do better. In this twenty-first
century it is unbelievable that professionals would be treated so disdainfully and belittled in such a manner, as though the work this group does is of no consequence. A nation is depending on the media and reporters for timely and accurate reports on
the national recount but this group of persons cannot be afforded basic courtesies but unruly persons with certain agendas are allowed front seat considerations. Better is expected. Better must come. Shamshun Mohamed
That Carter Center blockage - a... From page 5 it is where things are. I do not like where we are. I do not like that the international community has, in some there senses and at a high and distant level, become the de facto governing apparatus of this country. I utterly regret that we are so scanty in the required mental acuities to fig-
ure out a way, and to commit to that way in working towards the fruition of a destiny that is carved out by local minds and hands. Now we have outsiders determining how our domestic hearth is to be run and pushing us around in the process. It should be humiliating to any Guyanese. It is to me.
But I would like to think that I am wise enough to recognize the changed world in which we live; of the prevailing governance determinants that must be adhered to; and of the Guyanese leadership compromises that represent the only way out. I am ashamed also that our political process and political players find pride in not finding the wisdom to solve our own problems by ourselves. Thus, humiliations are heaped upon embarrassments. For the last time, to the coalition leadership, I say: step back. Stand down from this Pearl Harbour. Sincerely, GHK Lall
Kaieteur News
Thursday May 07, 2020
PAGE 07
Guyana Press Association asks GECOM to ensure comfort, safety of journalists covering recount The tents set up for the media
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he Guyana Press Association (GPA) has made several demands of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to ensure the safety of media personnel who will be providing coverage for the National Recount of the March 2, 2020 polls at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. Deemed “important stakeholders” in the electoral process, reporters were given the assurance by the Public Relations Officer, GECOM's Yolanda Ward that proper provisions will be in place for the media fraternity. P r i o r t o t h e commencement of the process, the Press Association had advocated for a special area inside of the Conference Centre Compound but this was advised against by the National COVID-19 Task Force. Ward has disclosed that two tents would be set up outside the ACCC with chairs for the media. However, when the media
showed up at the recount site on Wednesday morning, they were greeted with two tents with no chairs or washroom facilities around. It was only after several posts surfaced on Facebook, that the PRO made provisions for chairs to be provided for the media. The media was also permitted access to the Aquatic Centre to use the washrooms there. This means that for the recount period set to last 25 days, the media would be stuck outside and forced to make use of washroom
facilities located an estimated 200meters away from the action. Several complaints also were made relating to the safety of media workers when under the tent after several outsiders, who wore no protective gear, entered the tents. The President of the GPA, Nazima Ragubir during a live interview at the recount site, stated that she also advocated for a special area for the media to prevent the infiltration of outsiders. The GPA Head said that
Missing polling books delay Reg. 1 count
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he national recount of ballots cast in District/ Region One was yesterday delayed after the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) was unable to locate the polling books that were presumed to be with the ballot boxes at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre (ACCC), but remained in the possession of former Returning Officer (RO) Trevor Harris. According to the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Elections Commission, Yolanda Ward, issues arose during the recount of ballots cast in the March 2, General and Regional Elections after party agents raised objections over the absence of those polling books, which subsequently resulted in a stall of the recount and reconciliation for that district. During her press briefing last evening, Ward stated
GECOM PRO, Yolanda Ward that GECOM has located the missing polling books and had made the necessary arrangements to have them transported to Georgetown. “We are hoping to get them here by tomorrow or maybe early on Friday when there is a flight coming out of that Region,” she said. According to Ward,
polling books play a significant role in the accountability and transparency of the events that took place at polling stations, as they contain the notes of the Returning Officer (RO) regarding what transpired during the electoral process on Election Day. The PRO further explained that those books, among other things, would depict if persons voted with certificates of employment, the total numbers of the same, whether persons would have voted by proxy. The books also chronicle the issues and hiccups that were addressed at the respective polling stations. “The poll book is essentially the log book of the day's activities,” she said. Ward stated that she anticipates that today's recount proceedings will go without any major hiccups.
“We are not a special group of people, this is something I keep saying, but the very basic arrangements that can be made can be useful, because whatever we do as the press for this process is to really ensure that, or to show the public that it has the credibility that the Commission is talking about. “We are not out here just doing our own thing. We are providing coverage to show what is really going on and if it is a credible process.” “I did not expect us to be accommodated in the building but with these passes that we were granted, accrediting us to cover the
elections, I'd want to think it would have given us some amount of clout, at least the accredited persons to get some better access there.” She expressed hope for regular press briefings with GECOM. “Of course it is a concern and the engagements between GECOM and the media is an overall concern and you would remember that we had raised the lack of communication from the Commission itself, early on, prior to elections and the lack of engagement and stuff like that. “We got a few press releases and Ms. Ward spoke to us once but regular press
briefings are needed at this time. Not only with the PRO but people who are critical to the process, that we can talk to them to ascertain what really is going on.” The Head of the GPA, along with other media representatives, made requests for barricades to ensure that media operatives were safe. The GECOM PRO has promised to make these available today. The media had unexpected assistance from the owner of Giftland Mall, Roy Beepat, who opened his mall for the media to utilize wifi, charging ports, washroom facilities and snacks when needed.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 08
Thursday May 07, 2020
Procurement Commission has software to monitor spending at ministries, agencies
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h e P u b l i c Procurement Commission
(PPC) which regulates the awards of state contracts, says it is now better prepared
to track spending by the various ministries, state agencies and other related
The PPC says it has a software now that will allow to better monitor procuring entities entities. According to the Commission, it recently collaborated with the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) to develop and implement a Procurement Monitoring Software to enable the commission to effectively monitor the public procurement system and the implementation of procurement activities by procuring entities. “The specific goal of the system is to allow procuring entities to submit their annual procurement plans to the Commission in compliance with the requirement stipulated in the Procurement Amendment Act No. 14 of 2019,” the commission explained yesterday. The software will allow procuring entities to electronically upload their annual procurement plans and quarterly
procurement expenditure data to enable monitoring and analysis by the Commission in keeping with its functions listed in Article 212 AA.(1)(a) to (m) of the Constitution. P r i o r t o t h e implementation of the software, the PPC said it also successfully facilitated six training workshops with staff of procuring entities over the period December 2019 to February 2020 to present the features and functionality of the Procurement Monitoring Software and allow for their feedback. Over 60 persons drawn from 28 procuring entities were trained to upload the required data, navigate the system's interface and generate reports. “Significant and useful feedback was received from the participants, which enabled the software developers at NDMA to make enhancements and
Mrs. Carol Corbin, Chairperson, along with other senior staff of the PPC, meeting with representatives of Procuring Entities
improvements to the overall performance of the software. The Procurement Monitoring Software is expected to be in operation across all procuring entities by the end of May 2020, following which a second round of training would be conducted online in time for its use after the 2020 National Budget is approved,” the PPC said. The commission also noted that it remains confident that the implementation of the Procurement Monitoring Software will bring significant benefits to the public procurement system in terms of modernization and efficiency in the execution of procurement activities across all procuring entities. “The Procurement Monitoring Software supports Government's plan for the implementation of E-Government in Guyana.”
Kaieteur News
Thursday May 07, 2020
PAGE 09
HAS RELIGION FAILED US?
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he politicians are not only to be blamed for the moral crisis facing the nation. The main culprits are the members of the public that refuse to act in accordance with what is right and what is wrong when it comes to general elections. Each of the two main political groups wants to win. Their supporters, in the main, are prepared to win by dishonest means. Honesty is the best policy. But most persons in these two political camps want their party to win so badly that they are prepared to condone dishonest acts for the sale of winning. Since 2nd March, I have never been convinced by those who parade the view that the APNU+AFC won the elections. I am of the belief that those who make this claim know fully well that the Coalition lost the elections. But they are using this argument to express what the outcome they wish to see rather than what is. In others word, the Coalition supporters know they have lost but are saying the
opposite because that is what they want and want desperately. The issue is a moral one. Winning honestly is to be on the right side. Cheating is to be on the wrong side. To win dishonestly is wrong. Plain and simple. Those who want to win at all costs, including dishonestly, are morally wrong. Plain and simple. If someone cheats in an examination and passed on the basis of that act of cheating that is wrong. A person who cheated in an athletic event has committed a dishonorable act. That is wrong. If I rob someone of some money, that is wrong. So how come if I rig an election that becomes right. How come if I accept a declaration that is knowingly rigged, can that be right? The idea therefore that a political leader would accept a declaration of victory knowing fully well that there was cheating is downright dishonest. And for supporters to support dishonesty puts them on the wrong side of the moral divide. The moral crisis facing
the nation is about right and wrong. Right and wrong are treated today not as not absolute values; they are relative values. Morality has become relative. If it is in someone's interest to cheat, then they treat that as being right. And this is why the country has found itself in the present confusion. What we have is a case of moral confusion. We have a confused generation of Guyanese who do not know the difference from right and wrong. The criminals do not know how to distinguish right from wrong. Some of them do so see the act of depriving someone of their personal possessions as being wrong because they live in a society where there is hypocrisy when it comes to right and wrong. Free and fair elections can only be useful if those participating are willing to abide by the rules of the game and accept the results. But if there will be forces which are bent on being dishonest and want to win at all costs, this makes a mockery of the whole system. It would be much better, as I have alluded to
Dem boys seh...
A reportah tek a ride home Fact is fact. When yuh try to fuffuckle, everything yuh do does come out. Is na dem boys seh suh, is what does happen. Plenty things wha dem Hap-New, Hay-Eff-See and de Pee-Pee-Pee do already come to light. And dem boys intend to continue to skin dem up. Dem boys paying close attention to the sea wall hotel wha dem want to tun into a hospital. Dem boys see Patto de Works man de other day give an interview. Dem boys check dem watch and dem still waiting to hear what Patto really wanted to say. The question had to do with video streaming of the recount. And is na only he can't answer de questions dem properly. Is de same
problem some of dem supporters have. One of dem is a man name Bee-Kay. Imagine he get some prime property on de East Bank. The ink barely dry on the papers for de land and he tun round and sell it to Chinese investor who like plenty wood and eventually get exposed. The investor could not pay and the matter end up in court. The land went fuh tender by the bank and a businessman win. Even Bee-Kay bid pun de land. Dem boys leff wid dem mouth open. How come if yuh own something, yuh end up bidding pun it? De property mek de businessman and Bee-Kay fall out. Braaps!! Up come Uncle
Adam and plant heself in dem two man story. Except that he tek side. He tun he pen into a missile. He leh dem boys hand fall. He know wha dem stand fuh. Dem boys din know dat when he leff de Waterfall paper to retire, he woulda become hatchet man fuh a businessman. Dem boys advisin he nah fuh go down dah road. He then went to the police to complain. When he come out back he give an interview and den he jump in de reportah's car for a drop back to he home. Dem boys seh if Uncle Adam want a raise, dem willing to help he out. Talk half and tell Adam nah stick he nose in dem businessmen story!
previously, for elections to be decided by spinning a coin because if persons are going to cheat in order to win why have an election. The moral crisis facing the nation forces us to ask another question. Has religion failed us? Or have we failed religion? Religion is the basis of morality. Religious values allows us to distinguish between what is right and what is wrong. So why then has the religious community, including many religious leaders, who like to pontificate about what is right and what is wrong, not
condemned the dishonest acts which took place in the tabulation process of the elections? They have not done so, because they would lose the support of their congregations if they condemn the rigging which took place. In other words, the cart is leading the horse. This is source of their moral confusion The moral crisis exists because religion has limited itself to only personal and some social relations but has not infiltrated into politics. Politics is seen as being outside of morality.
And because morality is not part of the politics, people believe that they can do the most immoral of acts, such as rigging elections, and not face moral indictment. The moral dilemma which faces the nation is therefore not so much as the failure of religion but its failure to impose values in politics. (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
Thursday May 07, 2020
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
My prediction on how the 2020 drama will end
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pread over the past six weeks, are commentaries that adumbrate my attitude on how the drama is going to end. I have been asked that question over the past six weeks
through emails from people I know and some I don't know at all. I gave my prediction before. I will do so again to please those who have asked me as recent as yesterday. My prediction has a
preface. I do not trust the chairman of GECOM not even for a fleeting moment. Any educated mind who respects his/her education that can watch the shameless, barefaced descent of Claudette
Singh and Keith Lowenfiled and openly write or speak of these two questionable humans is essentially an indecent person who put narrow politics in front of country. Not if but when sanctions come (I say when because the APNU+AFC are not going to concede defeat), those who embrace the actions of Singh and Lowenfield should be sanctioned too. I have written several times on this page the past two months that the nation must expect a new stratagem to continue the rigging as the next day breaks. Has a day passed with the birth of a new stratagem since Mingo did his mango magic on March 4? You have to be blind not to see the unfolding of these tricks with every passing day. We have dangerous new moves since the recount started. One is absolutely repugnant. The same Keith Lowenfield will have in his possession, and only him, the statements of recount (SORs). These replace the statements of poll (SOPs). This is the very man using SOPs that were not available to the world to declare a victory for APNU+AFC and summoned
a meeting of GECOM to accept his declaration. There is a common analogy humans use is this situation. It goes like this – this is like putting Dracula in charge of the blood bank. Next, chains were found on some of the ballot boxes for Region 3 the keys to which no political parties had. The standard procedure is at the close of poll, the boxes are sealed and each party is given a key. Who put the chains on those boxes? Next – Simona Bromes and Carol Joseph, two APNU+AFC representatives have raised objections to what they have seen as abnormalities in the recounting of Region 2 votes. These are the very people who have told the world that they won the election but are now seeing abnormalities. Don't dismiss what Broomes and Joseph are doing. What they are doing is giving away the secret plan. I will come to that below. Next – water may have destroyed some ballots because the containers got soaked. Next they are not counting boxes sequentially. The plan is unfolding. Here now is my take on how the recount is going to
Frederick Kissoon end. APNU+AFC will raise countless objections to what they saw as irregularities. The three PNC commissioners are going to inform Singh and Lowenfield that GECOM cannot arrive at a conclusion based on what the recount showed. Singh will vote with the three PNC commissioners after Lowenfield would have presented to GECOM what the recount showed and his report is going to conclude that the recount is too flawed to declare a result. GECOM will conclude that the 2020 March poll cannot be considered as legal and legitimate. APNU+AFC will agree to the holding of another election. Then Guyana will journey into the land of the bizarre. If the world's geniuses get together and advise the 10 opposition parties to contest again, the next poll would be conducted with Singh, Lowenfield and Roxanne Myers in charge. David Granger and APNU+AFC will say that they cannot tell GECOM which staff to change and which to retain. Vincent Alexander will argue that why are you changing these people when they have done nothing wrong. In the meantime, APNU+AFC remain in office and will go to the courts using the doctrine of necessity that Guyana must have a government. APNU+AFC will not agree to a joint government but will argue that it cannot leave office because there is no constitutional article that caters for an interim government or a government of national unity. The US, Canada, EU, OAS, Commonwealth and CARICOM will not accept the political masturbation and legal corrugations of APNU+AFC and will impose sanctions. The sanction will hit hard and there is going to be sad confusion in Guyana. What happens from hereon, I really don't want to guess. But I suspect that powerful international forces will impose a national government and insist that GECOM be rearranged. That is how I see it guys. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
Kaieteur News
Thursday May 07, 2020
PAGE 11
Juvenile prisoners overpower M&CC temporarily closes Stabroek police guards, free colleagues Market after customers refuse to wear masks, sanitize Five recaptured -
O
The Sophia holding centre where two juveniles overpowered police ranks before freeing 10 of their colleagues
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olice have recaptured five juvenile inmates who ambushed and assaulted police guards Tuesday night before freeing several of their colleagues at the Sophia Holding Centre. Minister of Public S e c u r i t y, K h e m r a j Ramjattan, yesterday said he has asked for a report on the matter. According to the police statement, “stringent efforts” by ranks are currently underway to recapture seven of twelve inmates of the Juvenile Holding Centre who escaped
from the facility about 23:30h on Tuesday, May 5, 2020.” Police said that during the escape, two ranks were assaulted and have since received medical attention. “Meanwhile, a thorough investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the escape.” Among the escapees were said to be inmates accused of murder and other serious crimes. The five were recaptured in Georgetown. Kaieteur News was told that based on preliminary details, two of the juveniles broke out of
their holding areas earlier and hid. At the changing to the shift after 10.00 p.m., two police ranks on guard were attacked and beaten. The two juveniles relieved the ranks of keys which they used to free the others. It is not an easy walk for police ranks who are assigned to the Sophia site. In fact, a Kaieteur News report in 2016, had pointed to a potential powder keg, where violent juveniles attack ranks with makeshift weapons and bags of faeces, and where minors who have (continued on page 16)
fficials from the Mayor and City C o u n c i l (M&CC) were yesterday forced to temporarily shut the gates to the Stabroek Market after customers refused to wear masks and sanitize before entering. This is according to the city Mayor Ubraj Narine. Mr. Narine stated that he was in the area and saw hundreds of persons flouting the COVID-19 safety measure. “The crowd wasn't adhering to the measures implemented for the safety of Guyana and something had to be done,” Mayor Narine said. The M&CC had stipulated that customers should form a line and wash their hands before entering the market. However, upon his inspection Mr. Ubraj observed that customers were refusing to do so and some became unruly. As a result, city constabulary ranks were summoned. According to sources, since the M&CC stated that vendors will be fined $5000 for not wearing
City Mayor Ubraj Narine touring the Stabroek Market masks, most were adhering to the regulations. However, it is the customers that are refusing to do so. At the Stabroek Market sinks are readily available for customer to use. However, persons have been making
off with the soap. The M&CC has ordered that only two of the four entry points will be open. A s o f y e s t e r d a y, Guyana's Covid-19 cases and deaths remain at 93 and 10 respectively.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 12
Thursday May 07, 2020
Western Diplomats, Commonwealth call for full transparency in recount A
s the recount of ballots from the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections gets underway several top western diplomats issued a call for the process to be fully transparent. The diplomats include Ambassador of the United States of America, Sarah-Ann Ly n c h , B r i t i s h H i g h Commissioner, Greg Quinn, C a n a d i a n H i g h C o m m i s s i o n e r, L i l i a n Chatterjee, Ambassador of the European Union, Fernando Ponz-Canto and Secretary General of the Commonwealth States, Patricia Scotland. They issued a joint statement in which they welcomed the decision to finally commence the recount process. The statement said “The results of these elections are long overdue, and it is incumbent on all to do what they can to ensure the
Canadian High Commissioner, Lilian Chatterjee
Ambassador of the United States of America, Sarah-Ann Lynch
British High Commissioner, Greg Quinn
Ambassador of the European Union, Fernando Ponz-Canto
Secretary General of the Commonwealth States, Patricia Scotland
democratic choice of the people is heard and acted upon.” “Full transparency of the recount process is, however, vital to ensure it is credible,” the diplomats noted. While they welcomed the CARICOM scrutinizing team, the diplomats
expressed disappointment that a wider range of international observers were not present for the recount. “We welcome the role of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) although we regret that it has not been possible for a broader range of international observers to
be present at the start of the process. We d o , h o w e v e r , welcome the decision to allow live-streaming and urge that this be used to the maximum extent possible.” Further, the diplomats from the ABCE countries urged the swift, credible and
transparent conclusion of the recount to focus on the threat posed by COVID-19 and the development needs of Guyana. Similar sentiments were conveyed by Secretary G e n e r a l o f t h e Commonwealth States. “Full transparency and
adherence to the rule of law is vital to the credibility of the electoral process,” Scotland said. “The Commonwealth continues to support the process through its Senior Electoral Adviser to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).”
Five members from one family in Linden - children aged 12 and test positive for COVID-19 one among patients
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he mining town of Linden is now battling with nine cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), six of which were recorded among the recent cases. This was disclosed by the Region Ten Regional Health and Emergency Committee (RHEC).
It was discovered that five of the six persons are from one family, and two are children, aged 12 and one. The patriarch of the family was the third positive case in the town and those now testing positive are his wife, daughter, niece and two close family members. Three of them have
already been transferred to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, while two remain home for further instructions. The Committee also revealed that the sixth case is a woman with no ties to the family. Additionally, two other residents, who are suspected to have contracted
Liza Phase One to produce 120,000 barrels by June
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ince coming on s t r e a m o n December 20, 2019, the Liza Phase One project in the Stabroek Block has produced over eight million barrels of oil with an average daily production of 75,000 to 80, 000 barrels of oil per day. Informing the media of this recently was Energy Department Head, Dr. Mark Bynoe. During a press briefing on Monday, Dr. Bynoe said that the Liza Phase One project is expected to ramp up to full capacity by early June. By that time, it would be producing 120, 000
barrels of oil per day. Turning his attention to a wider challenge in the global oil industry, Dr. Bynoe alluded to the fact that the depressed demand for oil has forced many producing countries to close off producing wells. But the same cannot be done for Guyana, expressed the Director. The official said he had several discussions with industry experts and the general impression is that Guyana should continue producing and do nothing that could jeopardize the operational integrity of the
Liza well. The Director said that shutting down the well can prove costly and detrimental to any production from that reservoir. The Liza Phase One Project is expected to last for 20 years. At the end of the approximately 20 year life of project, ExxonMobil's subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) would develop a plan to decommission the offshore production facilities. The plan would have to be approved by the government.
the disease, are awaiting results, one of whom is another child. In light of these developments, Regional Executive Officer Orrin Gordon has emphasised the need for parents to be more vigilant with their children. “It hurts me to know that we have two children among those infected since before this we had not reported any infections among children. I hope that parents and guardians would recognise that children are not exempt from contracting this deadly virus. Therefore, they must take the required actions and precautions to safeguard children during this time,” he said. Gordon also called on the wider populace of the town to be more responsible and to take social distancing, enforcement of the curfew and individual and environmental sanitisation more seriously. “People must understand that COVID-19 is deadly and residents within this region must act responsibly otherwise they continue to put themselves and every other person at risk,” Gordon
Commander of Region 10, Hugh Winter
Regional Executive Officer Orrin Gordon
warned. “We had registered just one case and remained this way long after other regions had announced theirs. But now within a short space, we have jumped to eight persons,” he added. Commander of Region 10, Hugh Winter said ranks are already enforcing the emergency measures including the national curfew and will continue to do so in a more robust manner, given the recent rise in cases. Ranks are on 24-hour patrol
ensuring that residents are adhering to the regulations and have had to make several arrests of persons breaching the curfew thus far. Meanwhile, the Municipality of Linden which has responsibility for ensuring none-essential businesses and the market arena are not occupied by loiterers, will also ramp up monitoring its municipal constables. The total number of confirmed cases of COVID19 now stands at 93. (DPI)
Kaieteur News
Thursday May 07, 2020
PAGE 13
Man, 44, is charged with murder of singer Eddy Grant's niece, 36 - She burnt to death in 'arson attack' on her home
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aily Mail - A 44year-old man h a s b e e n charged with the murder of a primary school classroom assistant after she burnt to death in a house fire. Denise Keane-BarnettSimmons, who is Eddy Grant's niece, was pulled from the burning home in Brent, north-west London, by firefighters on Thursday April 16. The 36-year-old, whose mother was married to the Electric Avenue singer's brother, died in hospital after being dragged from the blaze. Damion Simmons, of no fixed address, has now been charged the murder of Denise Keane-BarnettSimmons. He was also charged with disclosing private and sexual photographs with intent to cause distress, and voyeurism, and also arson with intent to endanger life. Firefighters rushed to the scene in Brent, north west London, at around 2.15am on Thursday, April 16. Despite efforts from doctors, Miss KeaneBarnett-Simmons was tragically pronounced dead at 6am. A post-mortem examination found her cause of death as burns and inhalation of fire fumes. She was a year one teaching assistant at Pakeman Primary School in
north London. A second woman, in her 60s, who was also pulled from a window of the terraced house by a heroic neighbour and firefighters was taken to hospital but was not in a life-threatening condition. The accused is set to appear before Willesden Magistrates' Court this morning. On the night, brave neighbour Dominic Scanlon ran to the rescue after he was woken up by calls of 'help, help.' The 52-year-old tube driver grabbed a ladder and jumped two garden fences to reach the property where the victim's aunt was trapped inside and screaming for help. Mr Scanlon, of Harlesden, north west London, said: 'I heard shouting and screaming and thought it was a party. 'Then I heard 'help, help' and I ran down stairs to open the front door. The flames were engulfing the house. 'I ran into the garden to get the ladder and climbed over two garden fences and climbed up to the older woman. 'I shouted 'is there anybody else in there' twice, but no one answered.' 'I stayed with her all the time holding onto her so she wasn't alone until the fire brigade arrived.' A fireman joined Dominic in trying to pull the
The apartment in which the young lady was burnt. (Ben Cawthra/LNP)
woman, in her sixties, out of the window, but the pair struggled until a second fireman managed to free her. The woman spent the next hour with paramedics and police in her neighbour's house where Dominic was Eddy Grant was a founding member of The staying with his cousin. Equals and had a successful solo career with the But Dominic did not hit single Electric Avenue. (AFP via Getty Images) (continued on page 16)
Miss Keane-Barnett-Simmons (SWNS.COM)
Kaieteur News
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Thursday May 07, 2020
After its racism to Africans goes global, a Chinese province is taking anti-discrimination measures Kwasi Gyamfi Asiedu (QUARTZ)
O
fficials in C h i n a ' s Guangdong province have announced a raft of new measures aimed at combating a racial discrimination storm which has threatened Beijing's relationship with African governments and Africans globally. It comes after an unprecedented diplomatic scandal broke out because of the treatment of Africans resident in the province's capital, Guangzhou. In April, videos and images of Africans being evicted from their apartments, forced into quarantine, blocked from hotels and even being barred from a local McDonald's went viral on social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook and WhatsApp. The recent wave of suspicion and anti-foreigner sentiment in the southern port city, which is a major hub for African entrepreneurs, was sparked by reports that a group of African men broke quarantine and infected others with the coronavirus. With the new measures, China is effectively acknowledging a racism problem and hoping to repair damage to its relationships
with African countries. Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and Uganda were among African countries to summon China's ambassadors, along with the African Union Commission, to register their displeasure about the reports privately and at times very publicly. The US State Department also ramped up the scrutiny of happenings in Guangzhou with a warning to African Americans to avoid travel to the city. The response from Beijing had initially been to deny the reports; describing them as “rumors” and “misunderstandings” spread by Western media, despite the fact local media in African countries were the first to report on the issue. However, with the new measures, China is effectively admitting there is a problem and clearly hoping to repair damage to its relationships with African countries. A note published on Monday on the website of Chinese Embassy in Nigeria—relaying a message from Guangdong province officials – said: “We firmly oppose any discriminatory practice against specific individual or group, and allow zero tolerance for discriminatory remarks and deeds.”
It also said the province was implementing “measures on ensuring equal services in nine sectors.” The measures target businesses such as hotels, shopping malls, restaurants and other places where Africans have been routinely turned away, as well as residential compounds. Education, public transport and medical service providers are also included in the new regulations. “Any organization or individual shall not restrict or refuse providing hotel accommodation and renting houses to any specific group
of people because of their nationality, race, gender or skin color. Nor should they be denied free access to such public venues as local communities, shops and parks,” one of the new measures included in the note read. A dedicated hotline has also been set up for foreign nationals who have concerns, however, it is unclear what kind of sanctions violators of the new measures would face. Given the culture of local Chinese officials to closely follow guidance by their superiors, this change of
emphasis to prevent racial discrimination will likely be enforced to some extent though it may take time to be effective. But these measures have been late in coming as some African governments have escalated their actions beyond the initial condemnation of events. Last week, Nigeria's House of Representatives unanimously passed a motion on the “Maltreatment & Institutional Racial Discrimination Against Nigerians Living in China by the Government of China.” Among the reliefs being
sought by legislators is to “redress in any local or international court for breach of fundamental rights, loss of property or any other actionable cause occasioned by [the] maltreatment [of Nigerians] in China.” It also includes a move to “check the validity of all immigration documents of every Chinese person in Nigeria.” In Kenya, where a lawmaker has already warned of possible retribution, nearly 200 citizens have signed up for a repatriation flight from Guangzhou.
Kaieteur News
Thursday May 07, 2020
PAGE 15
India's cases spike with Chennai market cluster
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EW DELHI (AP) — Health officials are rushing to contain the spread of the coronavirus in India's southern city of Chennai, where an outbreak has been identified at one of the country's largest markets for fruit, vegetables and flowers. The busy Koyambedu market, with 500 shops, is central to the food supply chain in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states. It had remained open through India's nationwide lockdown until it was shut Monday after the cluster was detected. Some 7,000 people connected to the market are being traced and quarantined, city official J. Radhakrishnan said. Chennai now has confirmed 2,008 cases, with 545 of them detected in two days. Tamil Nadu has confirmed 4,058 cases and many of its new cases are linked to the market, the state government said. The market cluster contributed to India's biggest single-day increase in virus
infections, 3,900 new cases and 195 deaths. Those figures reported Tuesday brought India's total to over 46,700 cases with 1,583 deaths. The health ministry attributed the spike to reporting delays by state governments, but experts remain worried. They credit the strict, sixweek lockdown with giving India time to prepare hospitals, equipment and personnel and ramp up testing, but they wonder if it will be enough to avert catastrophe in a country with limited medical care and vast numbers of poor among its 1.3 billion people. The government eased the lockdown on Monday, allowing some movement and business to resume in areas less affected by the virus while maintaining strict measures in hard-hit areas such as New Delhi and Mumbai. The surge of people gathering at reopened liquor shops prompted authorities in Mumbai to close them after police had difficulty controlling the crowds. The
A man grimaces as a nasal swab sample is collected from him to test for a new coronavirus in Bangkok, Thailand city, India's financial capital, has been the worst hit by the virus. In New Delhi, authorities imposed a special 70% tax on liquor purchases to dissuade crowds and raise revenue. In other developments in the Asia-Pacific region: — INDONESIAN ELECTIONS DELAYED: The coronavirus has delayed Indonesian regional elections being decided by more than 100 million voters. President Joko
Security guard, father of 9... From page 2 distance from those around us, these should not be political arguments," Leyton said. "They don't necessitate acts of defiance. and we simply cannot devolve into an us-versus-them mentality. "We really need to make a commitment as a community ... to doing the things necessary to allow us to stay healthy and turn the page on this crisis altogether. If not for ourselves, we should do this for Calvin Munerlyn, who has lost his life needlessly and senselessly." Calvin James Munerlyn, 43, a security guard at a Family Dollar north of downtown Flint, Mich., was shot and killed after telling a woman her daughter needed a face mask while inside the store. Officials said Sharmel Teague and her daughter went to the Family Dollar in Flint, Michigan, Friday afternoon. Security footage shows Munerlyn and Teague got into a verbal altercation after he told the woman her daughter needed a face mask to enter the store. Teague yelled and spat at Munerlyn,
who asked her to leave the store and instructed a cashier not to serve her. Under Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's executive order, everyone must wear a mask in all enclosed public spaces to halt the spread of COVID19. If customers refuse to comply, businesses can turn them away. The security footage shows the two driving off in a red GMC Envoy. The same vehicle returned about 20 minutes later at 2:15 p.m. Two suspects, Larry Teague, Sharmel's husband, and Ramonyea Bishop, her son, entered the store. Teague confronted the security guard about disrespecting his wife, and Bishop fatally shot him in the back of the head, Leyton said. The two men then left the store. Munerlyn, 43, was transported to Hurley Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. Munerlyn, also known as "Duper," leaves behind nine children and his wife, Leyton said. A GoFundMe page for Munerlyn was created two days ago and raised more than $30,000. "Duper was a
hardworking father and husband who lost his life while doing his job securing the place of business and asking all customers to wear a mask for our own safety as well as others," according to a statement on the page. City Commissioner Bryant Nolden said he knew Munerlyn most of his life and saw him training others free of charge. "He was just an allaround good guy. When I found out what had happened to him, it really broke my heart because I knew what kind of person he was," Nolden said. "This was extremely senseless over a mask. ... We need to stop the senseless violence in the community. This was totally uncalled for, he didn't bother a soul. All he wanted to do was take care of his family, and he always had his kids with him. This is a real loss for this community, and really, it's a big loss for me as an individual." Both suspects are at large and considered armed and dangerous, Leyton said. Sharmel Teague is in c u s t o d y, a w a i t i n g arraignment charges.
Widodo signed a regulation that would move the elections from September to December or later depending on the pandemic situation, the State Secretariat website said. The vote would elect 9 governors, 37 mayors and 224 district chiefs across the archipelago. The General Election Commission already had delayed election preparations because organizers have become ill with COVID-19. The election authority said postponement was the most viable option to prevent the further spread of the virus to rural areas. Indonesia has confirmed 12,071 cases and 872 deaths. — W U H A N SCHOOLS REOPEN: Senior students returned to classes Wednesday in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, the epicenter of the
coronavirus pandemic, after no new cases or deaths were reported from the outbreak that had prompted a 76-day quarantine in the city of 11 million. More than 120 schools re-opened to senior students after the facilities were thoroughly cleaned. Returning students were required to show they were healthy before being allowed inside. Wuhan accounted for the bulk of the more than 82,000 cases China has recorded, along with most of its 4,633 deaths. China's daily report of new cases has fallen into to the single digits and the country has gone three weeks without announcing any new deaths, prompting authorities to allow a re-opening of classes in Beijing and other areas for senior students preparing to take exams for high school or university. Tourist sites such as the Forbidden City in Beijing have also re-opened with strict limits on the number of visitors, who must show they do not carry the virus. — AUSTRALIAN CASES SPIKE: Australia recorded 26 new virus cases overnight mainly due to clusters at a Sydney nursing home and a Melbourne abattoir. Deputy Chief medical Officer Paul Kelly said the daily increase was larger than had been usual in recent weeks but he is confident health authorities are quickly getting on top of
the clusters. Sixteen deaths are connected to Newmarch House in Sydney. There have been 49 infections linked to Cedar Meats in Melbourne, but no fatalities. The Australian government plans to announce on Friday a relaxation of lockdown rules to get more people back to work. Australia had recorded 6,875 cases and 97 fatalities in a population of 25.5 million. — LOW SOUTH KOREAN CASES: South Korea reported no new cases in cities and towns Wednesday, with its only two new cases detected in airport screenings. The update brought its totals to 10,806 infections and 255 deaths. Wi t h f e w l o c a l c a s e s recently, the country is relaxing social distancing and preparing to reopen schools starting next week. Imported cases have declined as authorities stepped up border controls. Prime Minister Chung Syekyun said preventing an overwhelming of hospitals in the densely populated Seoul metropolitan area would be key to prevention of a second wave of infections. — FOREIGNERS REPATRIATED FROM N E PA L : H u n d r e d s o f Australian and New Zealand citizens and permanent residents boarded a chartered flight in (continued on page 17)
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Thursday May 07, 2020
Kaieteur News
The people’s voice will be heard and obeyed
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DEAR EDITOR, The tragedy has been committed. The country’s constituents are being taken for a malicious ride. The national and regional elections have been done two months ago and counting. It’s time the Judicial System steps up. GECOM is not a law unto itself. It was appointed by the representatives of all the political parties. It has failed miserably, and it’s no time for a delay in declaring the President. APNU/AFC has not won this election... and will have to accept its defeat. The perpetrators of elections fraud will be held accountable. Nothing goes unpaid. When people work and pay their taxes, they are entitled to see the fruits of its
worth. I call on the senior citizens, unless you make your voices heard, that which you receive (and the increase was due to the previous government) will be stagnated and lost. I call on middle class workers, the ability to own a home is not a luxury, but a progressive system that enables your sweat to reap the benefit. I call on civil service workers, the working class are the wheels by which an economy moves forward, you keep the nation from avoiding hiccups. I call on the Bar Association to be the voice of the people in speaking up. Your integrity elevates the Rule of Law. Without it no state will survive. I call on the Law
Enforcement to be the strength for justice and honour. You swore an oath to be fair and straightforward in all matters for the people, by the people and of the people. It is such a powerful oath that the respect it commands has immense responsibility. I call on the rich natives of this land: do not turn a blind eye because of your position. Wealth earned in an honest way has the blessings of the land and wealth gained through unscrupulous methods will carry the weight of its curse. Nothing goes unpaid. And if you believe in a God or not, the history of life has shown us that when sickness overcomes us, no amount of wealth can help. Let good conscience uphold good integrity.
I call on all the religious leaders to speak out and up. This is the time you are needed more than ever to guide your choir, your congregation, your true faith in Justice. Because all of this will be trampled by a few and are you going to allow the future of the children of Guyana be thrown away? I call on all the International bodies; your presence has helped the world to see the horrible stink that’s been unfolding. SOLIDARITY FOREVER, the people’s voice will be heard and obeyed. ONE PEOPLE, ONE NATION. ONE DESTINY. God Bless Guyana. Respectfully, Mohamed Yousuff (Br. Bob)
DEATH OF A COMRADE From page 6 insisted on comrades fulfilling their tasks. After the great victory of the Guyanese people in 1992 when the struggle locally and international solidarity brought about the first free and fair elections in independent Guyana, Feroze was asked by Cheddi Jagan to take up the post of Minister of Home Affairs. It was a delicate time and his skills in dealing with people were needed to work towards professionalizing the Police Force. He did an outstanding job in gradually moving that organization to play its constitutional role in the society. However, that job also took a toll on his health, but
he fulfilled his mandate. Since 2012, he withdrew from public life. During his active working life, he gave of his all. Even though he voluntarily withdrew, he kept an active interest in national and international events. He was always there to advise comrades and gave his opinion whenever it was sought. Whenever he came across interesting articles he would send them to comrades whom he believed had some interest in the subject. In 1997, when Cde Cheddi passed away, Feroze was asked to deliver the eulogy. He was asked because of his closeness to Cde Cheddi, he more than most knew Cheddi’s thinking, he knew of
Juvenile prisoners overpower...
From page 11 committed petty offences are housed with others who are charged with murder. Ranks who work there beCaretaker- One (1) Male able lieve that while eyes are on bodied to live and work, must know to do farming & poultry. the Georgetown Prisons, the authorities should also keep Call: 639-6648 a close watch on conditions Vacancy for domestic maid. at the Sophia-located facility. Some staffer had noted Call 627-1154 that a number of teens who LAND FOR SALE have committed offences inParfaite Harmonie transferable cluding murder, had been in $2.5M, $1.5M, $4.2M. Call: the holding centre for three years, and had displayed vio666-2326 lence towards other juveniles and even towards police NOTICE ranks. Hot & Spicy Creole Corner They cited a case where a Mother’s Day Lunch Basket 16-year-old attempted to stab only $10,500. Call: 225-6255/ a police rank with a piece of 226-9000 sharpened metal. Ranks had even disclosed that juveniles have even yanked out 'live' electrical wiring from the cells to rig up booby traps for the staff. But that is not the only threat that the ranks face. “There are times when you try to talk to them and they would sh—t or have
urine in plastic bags and they would throw it at you if they can't get their own way.” Some claimed that the juveniles “show one face” when the social workers are present, but “another face” when the social workers leave.“The administrators and staff should allow the police to do their work with respect to discipline, even though they are administrators,” one rank said. “We are also trained in social work.” To correct overcrowding, some staffers suggested that the facility be expanded so that more cells can be constructed. In 2016, three inmates broke out. The first one was caught at Rose Hall Town, Corentyne. Police and army ranks apprehended a second at Tain Settlement, Corentyne, Berbice. According to reports, the teens used a cutlass and a few pieces of wood from a bed to dig a hole in the lower flat of the concrete building to get out of Cell Two. They then scaled a fence.
his concerns and he had a keen appreciation of his work. That eulogy, delivered at the official funeral at the Public Building was another great speech a great tribute and in my view could be considered as one of the best given to a head of state in the world. It’s one that is worthwhile reading more than once. Feroze has left us at another important juncture of our country’s history. The democratic gains that this country has made are in danger of being lost once more. The PNC is in the process of trying to steal the votes of the people of Guyana. It is clear that the bureaucratic capitalist elite that run the PNC are fighting to hold on to power for their own selfish, corrupt ends. To do so they are prepared to destroy democratic governance. The consequences of that we
know, we have lived through that from 1968 to 1992. To preserve the efforts of so many who fought for freedom from colonialism and who struggled against the PNC dictatorship both inside and outside of the PPP and PPP/C, we must stand firm and strong and frustrate these efforts. Feroze Mohamed was a prominent and most significant fighter in those noble causes at the most difficult and dangerous times. We must honour him by defending the gains of the working people of Guyana; we must ensure that we build a democratic and free society as our contribution to people throughout the world who are also striving for peace, freedom and justice. Rest in Peace Comrade, thanks for a job well done. Donald Ramotar
Man, 44, is charged with... From page 13 consider himself a hero after his show of bravery. He said: 'It was pure adrenaline. It wasn't heroic. It's looking after another human being, no matter what race or religion.' Dominic said Ms KeaneSimmons' mother was Merle Keane-Grant, who was married to Patrick Grant, Eddy Grant's brother. Met Police has referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) - a move all British forces make when a person dies after recent contact with police. A Met Police spokesperson said: 'Damion Simmons, 44, of no fixed address, was charged on the evening of Wednesday, April 29 with the murder of Denise Michelle Keane-Barnett-Simmons, who was aged 36 and lived in Brent.
'He was further charged with arson with intent to endanger life, criminal damage endangering life, disclosing private and sexual photographs with intent to cause distress, and voyeurism. 'He was remanded to appear at Willesden Magistrates' Court on the morning of Thursday, 30 April. 'A referral was made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct in relation to previous police contact with the victim. The IOPC has launched an independent investigation.' Neighbour Eamon Gaffrey, 62, said: 'She was a very nice, pleasant young woman. She always smiled and said hello when she passed.' Meghan Smyth, who lives across from the burnt terraced house, said the blaze completely destroyed the property and left it 'black from top to bottom'.
Thursday May 07, 2020
Recount kicks off with hiccups and complaints From page 3 indicated online that he received badges of accreditation for two parties. He is accredited as a Tabulation Agent for The New Movement (TNM) and Standby for the Liberty & Justice Party (LJP). The badges were signed by GECOM Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield. A P N U + A F C frontbencher, Joseph Harmon complained to GECOM after realizing this, and asked the electoral body to revoke his accreditation. GECOM then barred Rodrigues from entering the centre. APNU+AFC agents report discrepancies Simona Broomes of APNU+AFC told reporters that she noticed some anomalies “from the outset” as she observed the count of the first box examined at a Station Four, for Region Two. She refused to comment on the nature of the anomalies, but explained that she registered any concerns she had, as the protocols allowed and said “it will go through the channels”. Despite this, Broomes said that the operations are moving smoothly. Carol Joseph of APNU+AFC said, after Station Nine's count of its first box, that there were issues with the six-digit numbers being stamped on the ballot twice in several cases. She said her party has found a lot of discrepancies, which tended to cause delays. Responding to concerns about those delays, Joseph said that people have to have a chance to query things. The party has said that the PPP/C does not want the recount to be anything more than a numerical count, because it would uncover a lot of discrepancies. “We are not only saying these things. We have proof; we have the documentation of what we are saying!” Joseph was observed to have been involved in a heated argument with others in her work station yesterday, indicated by a video circulating online. Due to the video circulating online, Presidential Candidate of the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) Lenox Shuman said that her behaviour is sufficient grounds to have her removed from the process, and that she should be barred from returning. Joseph had also gotten into a physical altercation with a member of another party when the second Region Four tabulation was being conducted at GECOM's Kingston office. She is also the agent who, according to multiple sources, demanded that Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo restart the tabulation at the Hadfield Street Ashmin's Building weeks ago, which was later found to be unlawful. Another APNU+AFC
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Kaieteur News
Ten Guyanese held in Brazil for crossing border illegally - As country sees surge in COVID -19 cases
The region one ballot box that was filled with water Candidate, Ganesh Mahipaul started his address to the press by saying “Clearly, there are problems in these ballot boxes.” His observation showed a minimal increase of one vote in a count he observed for a PPP stronghold, and he said that this is why it was important for the recount to be done.Patterson said that the party came prepared to raise questions about any anomalies, and that it has the evidence to back up their concerns. APNU /AFC claims dead voter Patterson stated that his party was aware of the name of an individual who had died listed as having voted. According to him, the GECOM A death certificate was later posted on social media by coalition supporters with the name Emmanuel Williams attached. On the death certificate, it was claimed that Williams, a 70-year-old, died on June 10, 2019 at the Suddie Hospital of Chronic Kidney Disease. The death certificate was issued on February 2, 2020. The coalition claimed that Williams was a registered voter at Karawab Primary School, Essequibo in Region 2. On the voting list, it was allegedly stated “BOX 2001, DISTRICT #2 (REGION 2), DIVISION # - 21123, POLLING STATION - KARAWAB PRIMARY SCHOOL, SERIAL # 264 NAME - WILLIAMS, EMANUEL.” GECOM'S PRO Yolanda Ward in her recount of the day's proceedings, acknowledged that claim. However, she noted that GECOM has not sought the authenticity of the allegation but since it has been brought into the public's eye, the Commission will be investigating it. She stated that GECOM has a procedure that addresses the removal of names from the final list of voters. “A name is on a list, for GECOM, we do not know who is dead, who is alive, because there was no objections or even if there was an objection, there has to be adequate proof
that that person is actually dead for us to remove that,” Ward explained. She stated that without that claim, and the necessary administrative process, a name on a list, GECOM has no control over that particular aspect. “It is a scrutinized process; party agents are present and such an occurrence should not take place.” APNU+AFC engaged in delaying tactics – PPP After the count of the second ballot box was completed for Region Four – Station Nine, APNU + AFC representative Carol Joseph advocated for the conclusion of operations—two hours before the close-off time which was allocated for 7PM. Joseph argued that opening a new ballot box would take them way beyond 7PM and thought it was best for them to conclude the process. Against this backdrop PPP/C representative Anil Nandlall argued that “These deliberate decisions that are being made are not very encouraging.” Ward gave a quick rundown of the day's proceedings at the close. “There were some administrative challenges that we faced and were brought to our attention from the political parties. As a result, the Commission met briefly to discuss some of these issues and they were able to arrive at some decisions regarding those.” She raised the issue of use of phones, since several broadcasts were sent out on Facebook during the day. “All of those persons at the count were informed of this and so the decision of the Commission is that henceforth people will be cautioned to desist from such a practice, and if they are found to do so then they will be escorted from the premises of the Convention Centre. This is being done to preserve the security and safety of the GECOM staffers and the count.” According to the PRO, GECOM has thus far managed to conduct the recount of 25 ballot boxes.
At least 10 persons were arrested in Brazil for entering the country illegally to seek employment. Kaieteur News understands that the Brazilian authorities made the arrests near the border and the detainees were taken into quarantine for 14 days. A police source in Lethem related that members of the Guyana Police Force have been working with their Brazilian counterparts to stop persons from crossing the border illegally. “At present, the border is closed to traffic. Only nationals of either Brazil or Guyana are allowed to travel to the home country. What we understand is that the persons who were arrested had been over there without documents looking for work.” Scores of people have been slipping through the Lethem/Brazil border despite reports of an alarming surge in COVID-19 cases in the neighbouring country. According to reports published by the Business Insider, as of Friday evening,
Brazil, which has a population of 209 million, had 91,589 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 6,329 deaths from the virus. That makes the country’s percapita death rate 3.02 deaths per 100,000 people. News sources in Brazil reported on a growing number of COVID-19 cases in the Roraima State which close the border.A news bulletin issued on Sunday informs that the State has recorded 1,414 notifications to COVID-19 so far. The Epidemiological Bulletin released by the Government of Roraima, records 11 deaths and 740 confirmed cases of Covid -19.However the figures are not enough to deter residents of Lethem and Bon Fim nearby border towns from crossing over into Brazil or to Guyana by the dozens at a time, despite the presence of 24 hour police patrol. Brazil had issued a temporary lockdown of the crossing due to the coronavirus last March. That lockdown has been extended to another month, according to news sources in Brazil. However Kaieteur News un-
India's cases spike with Chennai ... From page 15 Kathmandu bound for Sydney after being stranded for weeks in Nepal. It was only the second flight to Australia since a lockdown was imposed in March to prevent spread of the coronavirus. Australian Ambassador Peter Budd said it was a full flight with 281 people on board including 17 infants. The passengers will spend two weeks in government quarantine after reaching Sydney. Nepal also extended its virus lockdown to May 18 and an airport and border shutdown until May 31. — SHANGHAI DISNEY PARK REOPENING: The
Disneyland theme park in Shanghai will reopen May 11. Visits will be limited initially and must be booked in advance, and the company said it will increase cleaning and require social distancing in lines for the various attractions. With warmer weather and new virus cases and deaths falling to near-zero, China has been reopening tourist sites such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City palace complex in Beijing. Just two new cases and no deaths were reported Wednesday. China has recorded 4,633 deaths from COVID-19 among 82,883 cases of infection.
derstands that Lethem residents have been crossing over to Brazil to escape the economic downturn in Region Nine. A resident of Lethem explained that since the partial lockdown in March, “the Chinese stores and most other businesses with the exception of a few restaurants have been closed.” ”Without work, people in Lethem are finding it hard to provide for their families.” On Sunday, Commander of Police for Region Nine, Superintendant Keithon King, told Kaieteur News that he is aware of the illegal crossings at some points of the border.”Due to the dry weather, persons were able to drive across the border at various points. “We do not have the manpower to patrol the entire border so what we found is that people were able to come across at some isolated areas.” “With the rains, the waters will rise in the Takatu River and help prevent people from crossing easily.” Commander King nonetheless noted that the police have seized four boats and several motorcycles at the border since the lockdown. ”We had to seize the illegal items after the River dried up. People often smuggle items through the borders at these points.“But at this point, the borders are closed. The only people allowed to come to Guyana are nationals of this country and likewise only Brazilians to enter Brazil.”We also have a facility here to quarantine persons for fourteen days once they cleared at the correct checkpoint to come into the country. Of course, we are concerned about the illegal crossing, but we are doing the best we can to patrol the border with the resources available to us,” he said.
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Merkel gives go-ahead for Bundesliga to resume in mid-May AFP - German Chancellor Angela Merkel and state leaders yesterday gave the Bundesliga the green light to restart behind closed doors from mid-May after weeks of shutdown imposed to control the spread of the coronavirus. The political blessing makes the German top-flight the first of Europe’s five major leagues to return to the field.“Matches will be allowed under the approved rules,” said Merkel at a press conference in Berlin. The leaders approved a plan by the German Football League (DFL) for the Bundesliga to resume in stadiums without spectators and with players regularly tested. Permission was granted on condition that strict guidelines are followed — with a hygiene officer appointed to
each team — to prevent contagion of the virus. Bayern Munich and Germany captain Manuel Neuer said the players now had an “enormous responsibility” to be role models and follow the hygiene guidelines. The DFL must now set a date for the restart with either May 16-17 or the following weekend earmarked. Representatives from the clubs will finalise those details in a videoconference on Thursday. - ‘Wonderful signal’ “Today’s decision is good news for the Bundesliga,” said the league’s CEO Christian Seifert.“It’s a great responsibility for the clubs to implement the medical and organisational guidelines in a disciplined manner.” Bayern Munich, seeking
their eighth consecutive Geman title, were four points clear at the top of the table when play was halted in midMarch.“It’s a good feeling. We are now looking forward to being able to resume playing,” said Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, adding the decision was “an important and wonderful signal for the Bundesliga”. His opposite number at Borussia Dortmund — the club second in the table behind Bayern - also welcomed the news.“We are very pleased that people in Germany have behaved so magnificently that the spread of the pandemic has at least been contained,” said Dortmund CEO HansJoachim Watzke. “Only because the population has been incredibly dis-
Thursday May 07 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You need to slow down in matters of love and romance, Aries. You're likely acting on the assumption that things are fine and you can continue moving at lightning speed even though you long ago lost your road map.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) When it comes to romance in your life, Libra, there may be a great deal of talk but not enough action.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) When it comes to romance in your life, Taurus, there may be a great deal of talk but not enough action.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You need to slow down in matters of love and romance, Scorpio. You're likely acting on the assumption that things are fine and you can continue moving at lightning speed even though you long ago lost your road map.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Things are coming to a dramatic climax for you in matters of love and romance, Gemini. Perhaps you've been nurturing a relationship.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Issues of love and romance should be going well for you, Sagittarius, and you'll find that regardless of where you are in your relationships.
CANCER (June 21–July 22) Things are coming to a dramatic climax for you in matters of love and romance, Gemini. Perhaps you've been nurturing a relationship.
CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Things are coming to a difficult stalemate regarding the love in your life, Capricorn. Perhaps you've felt like everything was going fine and you had nothing to worry about.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Love and romance should be going well for you now, Leo. However, today you could find that things get a bit uneasy when either you or your partner suspects something isn't true or is suspicious about the situation at hand. VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22) Your warm, loving, romantic nature is noticed whether you realize it or not, Virgo. Perhaps you sometimes feel like there isn't enough excitement in your life - especially your love life.
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Love is very real to you. You're apt to take it very seriously, perhaps even too seriously, Aquarius. This is one of those emotions that eventually takes over your brain and leaves no room for rational thoughts on the topic. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Matters of the heart are likely to get a bit sticky, Pisces. Perhaps you feel as if someone is shutting off from you and being very stubborn about it.
ciplined can we now gradually move on to another form of normality.” Germany has about 165,000 coronavirus cases and 7,000 deaths, meaning it has so far prevented its hospitals becoming as overburdened as other European countries. Economic reasons are also driving the decision to allow football to resume. With 13 of the 36 teams in Germany’s top two divisions reportedly on the brink of bankruptcy, the league desperately needs to claim around 300 million euros ($325 million) from TV contracts if the season is completed. The league has long urged restarting play, which it says is vital for a sector that employs 56,000 people in Germany.Teams returned to training on April 6 although sessions have followed stringent social distancing rules. - 10 cases of coronavirus -The league says its intensive testing plan allows matches
to be relaunched with low risk to health.So far, clubs in the top two divisions have returned 10 positive results for coronavirus from 1,724 tests since training resumed. Three are from the Cologne club and two from Borussia Moenchengladbach. Health Minister Jens Spahn has argued that the testing regime “makes sense and can serve as an example for other forms of professional sport,” although he warned “it has to be lived up to”. The league and politicians reacted with consternation when Hertha Berlin player Salomon Kalou filmed himself shaking hands with teammates this week, flaunting the social distancing rules that clubs have put in place. “The video has done the German league and professional football a disservice,” Anja Stahmann, who chairs Germany’s regional sports ministers, told RBB radio on Wednesday.
Hertha have suspended Kalou, and the 34-year-old former Chelsea player has apologised profusely. - Different approaches Leagues across Europe are taking different approaches to the unprecedented crisis.The French league announced last week it will not resume the season, with Paris Saint-Germain awarded the top-flight title. The Netherlands abandoned its season a week earlier.The Premier League, Europe’s richest league, aims to restart in June, but differences have emerged over plans to use neutral stadiums. Players in Italy’s Serie A returned to training this week and in Spain, Barcelona say players underwent coronavirus tests on Wednesday as La Liga clubs began restricted training ahead of a proposed resumption of the season next month. The Serbian and Turkish leagues have also announced plans for matches to restart.
Nagamootoo played his 5 Tests in five different ... From page 23 disappointed,” said Nagamootoo, whose 331 wickets from 84 First-Class matches for Guyana, is only behind Permaul’s 479 from 100 matches for Guyana. The Guyanese is still bitter at how his career ended. “I never played more matches for the West Indies because I got a raw deal. I was still bowling good when I was dropped. I was not treated fairly and I was the best spin bowler in Caribbean at that time,” he lamented. “I want local cricket to be as competitive as it was back in the days, I want to give back to Guyana’s cricket, I want to coach Berbice and maybe Guyana. I think we have to find a way for all the good players to represent
their club,” said the former Test spinner, who says he follows Guyana and West Indies cricket closely. He feels for West Indies Cricket to successful those in charge needs to be more inclusive and diverse. His feels this is lacking. He also feels that the highly commercialised T20 leagues are affecting West Indies Test Cricket. “I think T20 is taking away the interest for Four-Day cricket. In our days it was not like that. Cricketers like Carl Hooper, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Clayton Lambert, Ramnaresh Sarwan and Neil McGarrell these are some guys who were regional strong holds in four-day cricket, not T20.The Board needs to pay the good players; encouraging them to
stand up for their Country. All other Countries are buying our good players for the T20 leagues,” said Nagamootoo, who says the fastest bowler has faced is Franklin Rose. Although he has been living in the USA for over five years, Nagamootoo says he was never interested in USA cricket.“I am currently employed by Dave West Indian imports doing Marketing and play cricket socially on weekends.”A quick, flat legspinner who could also turn the ball, Nagamootoo said the best four batsmen he has bowled are Brian Lara, Sanchin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Steve Waugh in that order.Asked what advice he would give to young leg spinners, Nagamootoo said that bowling wrist spin is the most difficult aspect in cricket and said leg spinners need to practice hard. They need to go into the nets get a feel of the ball, even sleep with the ball in their hands.He provided his opinion on Shimron Hetymer and Rakeem Cornwall.“Hetymer is good player who is getting carried away by the crowd, while Cornwall is a good bowler, he gets bounce and turns the ball but needs to lose a bit more weight to play test cricket since he just walks in to bowl,” stated Nagamootoo. “The main people who helped me are Sunny Verapen, who when he saw me in Whim and took me to Port Mourant and Pat Legal, our under-19 Manager. May he rest in peace,” Nagamootoo concluded.
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‘No chance’ of Tyson Fury v Deontay Wilder going behind Frank Warren (right) closed doors, says Frank Warren is Tyson Fury’s BBC Sport - Boxing must “avoid being left behind” amid the coronavirus pandemic but there is “no chance” of bouts like Tyson Fury v Deontay Wilder going behind closed doors, promoter Frank Warren says. Warren was speaking after details emerged of the British Boxing Board of Control’s plans for a July return. The 68-year-old added that the first UK fights to get the go-ahead are likely to be “British-title level”. “There’s not going to be big-name fighters out there,” Warren said. “There is no chance of Fury v Wilder behind closed doors.”Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Warren added: “We’re talking British-title level and the undercard will be the kids, who I don’t want to go away from the sport because they can’t get a living from it.” In a five-page consultation document sent to UK promoters and seen by BBC Sport, the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) says a planned July restart will
initially see events contain no more than five bouts and no “championship contests”. Fights would be behind closed doors and follow “strict government guidelines”. Warren says the ideas in the BBBofC documents which he says were “leaked by someone” - are “98% spot on” and were the result of consultations with a number of promoters. However, fellow promoter Eddie Hearn said the proposals provided “huge barriers to overcome”, while another industry insider described the document as “farcical”. The proposed new rules include boxers on British fight shows being required to wear protective masks during ring walks and they could also be banned from using a spit bucket between rounds. The BBBofC contacted BBC Sport on Wednesday and said none of the proposed rules were binding and that the views of promoters will be considered over the coming weeks. Asked if July was too
soon to return, Warren said: “We are all in the same boat as rugby, cricket, football... we are trying to stage sport behind closed doors. “As far as boxing is concerned, there are some fighters who are struggling at the moment - they haven’t got a living, no dates to train for. “We don’t want to get left behind while other sports appear back on TV. We don’t want to get lost, we want to be out there.”Warren added that boxing shows would only have “50 or 60” people involved, compared to many more for a football or rugby match. “For us, with five fights per show, that’s 10 participants in total plus their trainers,” he said. “As things get safer then things can expand.” On Wednesday it was announced the UK now has the highest number of coronavirus deaths in Europe. ‘Boxing but not as we know it’ Manchester fighter Anthony Crolla says he expects boxing will “not run smoothly” under strict guide-
promoter. (Getty Images)
lines put forward by the BBBofC. The 33-year-old former WBA lightweight champion, also speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, said: “We have the best boxing board around world and they are trying to do their best.“No matter how hard they try, those rules
won’t be followed to the letter - it will be impossible “A boxer can’t spit in a bucket? What if that fighter has a mouthful of blood?” Crolla says event organisers will “do their best” but bouts without fans will be “very strange”.“I want to see boxing back more than any-
thing but I’m not sure how smoothly it can run,” he added. “Officials and boxers having to self-isolate after or before it?“There’s so many fighters that feed off an atmosphere and there will be no atmosphere in a studio with a handful of people there.”
Iniesta calls children born because of his goal against Chelsea in 2009
Denesh Ramdin traded to St Kitts & Nevis Patriots; Carlos Brathwaite not retained ESPNcricinfo - St Kitts & Nevis Patriots have revamped their set-up, letting go of Carlos Brathwaite and Robin Singh who were in charge of the team last season. Instead, they’ve handed over the captaincy to the 39-year old Rayad Emrit and recruited Simon Helmot as their head coach for CPL 2020. West Indies wicketkeeperbatsman Denesh Ramdin, who had helped Trinbago Knight Riders to back-toback title victories in in 2017 and 2018, has now been traded to St Kitts & Nevis. The franchise retained their prominent West Indies internationals Evin Lewis, Sheldon Cottrell, Fabian Allen and Alzarri Joseph. Dominic Drakes, the son of Vasbert Drakes, was also retained. St Kitts & Nevis will be Ramdin’s third franchise in the CPL, having been part of Knight Riders and Guyana Amazon Warriors in the past. Emrit has vast T20 experience, having played 136 matches and picking up 149 wickets at an economy rate of 7.70. Helmot, too, brings rich T20 experience, having been part of Sunrisers Hyderabad (IPL), Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL), and Melbourne Renegades’ backroom staff. “I am very excited to be part of the St Kitts & Nevis
Denesh Ramdin has not been retained by Trinbago Knight Riders after four years with the franchise.
Patriots for a second season,” Emrit said. “I think that the team that is selected this year is going to be a very exciting one. I am very excited to be named as captain. It’s always an honour and a privilege to lead a franchise. Our new coach, Simon Helmot, knows the CPL and he knows how to win titles. He and I are going to work very hard to get the team to the finals.” Apart from letting go of Ramdin, Knight Riders retained the core of their side. Kieron Pollard, the Bravo brothers, spinners Sunil Narine, Khary Pierre and
Barcelona’s Andres Iniesta celebrates a goal against Chelsea during their Champions League semi-final second leg soccer match at Stamford Bridge in London May 6, 2009. (REUTERS/Albert Gea/File Photo)
Akeal Hosein will continue to represent Knight Riders. Narine, however, hasn’t played a single competitive game after sustaining a finger injury in CPL 2019. Despite the threat posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Caribbean Premier League (CPL) organisers hope that the tournament can still take place as scheduled in September and avoid a potential clash with the IPL. However, plans are being developed to stage it behind closed doors, without overseas players, or in a “social-distancing stadium” in Barbados if required.
(Reuters) - Former Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta celebrated the 11th anniversary of his famous Champions League semifinal strike against Chelsea by calling two children conceived after his tie-clinching goal. Barcelona were two minutes from being eliminated from the Champions League in a tense second leg at Stamford Bridge on May 6, 2009, when Iniesta collected a pass from Lionel Messi and stroked the ball into the top corner from outside the box. His goal secured a 1-1 draw, sending the Spanish side into the final in Rome on the away goals rule, and prompted an outpouring of celebration back home.Nine months later, those celebrations had a rather unexpected result, with maternity hospitals in Barcelona telling local media they were struggling to cope with demand amid a spike in the city’s birth rate.Yesterday, Iniesta, who now plays for Japanese club Vissel Kobe, posted a video of himself on Twitter speaking to two children who were born in January 2010.“Has your mother showed you the goal?” the 35year-old Iniesta asks Ignacio, who was born on Jan. 18. “Yes, what a goal,” Ignacio
replies.Ignacio’s mother Andrea Barri told Iniesta she found out she was pregnant just before travelling to the final, where Barcelona beat Manchester United 2-0.“If I’d told my mum before travelling she wouldn’t have wanted me to go to the game. So I told her on the plane,” she added.“You told her on the plane you were pregnant and we ended up winning the Champions League, everything was perfect then,” Iniesta replies. Josep Enric, who was born on Jan. 29, told Iniesta he is his “favourite player ever” along with Barcelona defender Gerard Pique. “They showed me the video of the goal which you scored before I was born. We were all celebrating it,” the 10-year-old added. Enric’s father, Josep Salvat, told Iniesta it was his brother who connected the dots between the goal and his son’s birthday. “My older brother is a big Barca fan, football is almost a religion to him,” Salvat said. “He was the one that went and looked at the calendar and made the calculations. “I remember how much we celebrated that goal, everything was lost but your goal gave us immense joy.”
Thursday May 07, 2020
Morgan goes to bat for T10 format at Olympics LONDON (Reuters) England’s World Cup winning captain Eoin Morgan says cricket’s 10-overs format would be ideal for a global multi-sport event such as the Olympics as the entire tournament could be squeezed into 10 days. Cricket featured at the 1900 Olympics and was played in the 1998 Commonwealth Games but has largely been absent from multi-sport events, which some say has restricted its growth beyond the traditional pockets. The 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham will feature a women’s Twenty20 competition but Morgan says the T10 format would be a better fit than T20, 50 overs or test cricket. “The one thing that T10 offers above the three formats that makes it so appealing to an Olympic Games or a Commonwealth Games is the fact that you can play a whole tournament in the space of 10 days,” he said in a video conference.
Hardyal says safety is priority, but remains optimistic on Orlando Cup 3 participation
England’s Eoin Morgan celebrates his half century. (REUTERS/ Mike Hutchings) “To have a tournament in such a short space of time maximises the opportunity and the exposure that it will have for the sport. “When you can play a cricket tournament in eight-10 days it really does make it appealing, and on top of that it really would be extremely entertaining,” said the 33year-old, who captains Delhi Bulls in the Abu Dhabi T10 league. Twenty20 has emerged as cricket’s most popular format, having spawned several franchise-based leagues around the world including the lucra-
tive Indian Premier League (IPL).But Morgan, who plays for the IPL’s Kolkata franchise, said T10 has its own merits. “The most important part of a T20 game is always overs 10 to 20,” said Morgan, who also captains Delhi Bulls in the Abu Dhabi T10 competition. “But if you look at a T10 game, the earlier overs are the most important. You need to make the most of that very short powerplay, so who you put in those key positions and in the form that they’re in, is the most critical factor.”
U.S. Open winner Andreescu stays focused on becoming world No. 1 MUMBAI (Reuters) - U.S. Open champion Bianca Andreescu has discovered a powerful tool to compensate for limited training opportunities amid the COVID-19 lockdown as the Canadian teenager remains focused on her goal to climb to the top of the women’s rankings. Andreescu, currently ranked sixth in the world, won her first WTA title at Indian Wells last year and then beat Serena Williams in the finals at Toronto and again at the U.S. Open in Flushing Meadows to clinch her first Grand Slam crown. But her climb up the rankings was halted after she injured her left knee at the WTA Finals last October. She has not played since and her bid to return to competitive tennis suffered a further jolt when the season was halted in March due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. Andreescu, the first Canadian to win a singles major, said the lockdown had taught her to take nothing for granted. “I have only been working out right now,” Andreescu, who turns 20 next month, told Eurosport’s Tennis Legends podcast which will be released on Thursday. “It is tough here in Toronto because they even closed the parks. So, nobody can play any tennis, basketball or even sit on a bench. But I have been working in
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Bianca Andreescu. (US Open file photo) my mind. As much as I can. It is a very powerful tool that I like to use.” The injury forced Andreescu to miss the year’s first major at the Australian Open, which went ahead as scheduled. But French Open organisers have postponed the clay-court major to September from May while Wimbledon has been cancelled. The fate of the U.S. Open in New York is expected to be decided next month. “I don’t know what the future has on hold but... I’m going to give my best, I don’t like losing so we’ll see but that’s definitely the goal as every other Grand Slam is as well,” added Andreescu, who reached a career-high ranking of four last year. “Because I want to reach
that number 1 spot. I really do.”With Andreescu on the women’s side and next generation prospects Denis Shapovalov and Felix AugerAliassime on the men’s, the future of Canadian tennis is in good hands. The more experienced Milos Raonic and Eugenie Bouchard have also been Grand Slam singles finalists. Andreescu and AugerAliassime, also 19, thanked Tennis Canada for investing in developing a platform for the future. “Taking people from all over the country, getting out of their comfort zone as a federation, is paying results in the years later,” AugerAliassime said. “There are some key changes that they made a few years ago that made the difference.”
The Regal Masters unit
C
aptain of Regal M a s t e r s M a h e n d r a Hardyal said the safety of players is of paramount importance, but remains optimistic that the Orlando Cup 3 can still be played later in the year. The Orlando Cup 3 was scheduled to be played in mid-March, but it has been put on hold due to the ongoing Corona virus pandemic. Chairman of the Board of Directors for Orlando Softball Cricket League, Rajendra Sadeo recently told the media that he is hopeful that they can still pull-off the tournament at a re-scheduled date once things get back to normal. He said that 24 teams have already signaled their intention to participate. In the 2018 edition of the tournament, Regal All stars won the open category, Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association claimed the over 45 segment
and Orlando took the over 50 title. Speaking with Kaieteur Sport yesterday, Hardyal who is also the owner of the Regal teams (All stars, Masters and Legends) which are based in Georgetown, said they have to wait and see what transpires and hopefully it will be deemed safe for the tournament to be played. “The players’ safety is priority; they are the most important resources in staging a tournament so we cannot risk the safety of our players, we have to wait and see how this pandemic unfolds and take it from there,” he added. Hardyal stated that prior to the Covid-19 outbreak, his players were fine tuning preparation for the tournament, but noted that it is very unfortunate the competition had to be rescheduled; however they will be waiting on a word from the organizers. All-rounder Hardyal pointed out that once the
competition comes off, they will be looking to go all the way in the open and masters’ categories. “We cannot practice as a team at the moment, but certainly the players can do some work at home and place some emphasis on the mental aspects on their game. Nevertheless we are confident of going all the way in both categories,” he posited. Hardyal, who is also an executive member of the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc, indicated that there are lots in store for softball locally when the sport resumes, but urged the players to be patient and practice safety at all times. Among the players set to turn out for Regal, should the Orlando Cup 3 comes off are; Hardyal, Unnis Yusuf, Eon Abel, Rudolph Baker, Mahase Chunilall, David Harper, Fazal Rafiek, Laurie Singh, Parsram Persaud, Martin Dutchin, Eric Thomas, Navin Singh and Patrick Rooplall.
Doping: Russia to resume testing despite coronavirus outbreak MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian anti-doping agency RUSADA said yesterday it would progressively resume testing later this month hiatusafter having imposed a hiatus in response to government measures aimed at curbing the spread of the new coronavirus. Speaking at an online news conference, Yuri Ganus, the agency’s director general, said RUSADA had elaborated a plan to resume testing, which it had halted in late March. “We are now waiting for the latest recommendations by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA),” Ganus said. “We will begin testing work from the last ten days of May.” Doping control officers will wear personal protective gear when testing resumes to protect themselves and the athletes, Victoria Barinova, head of RUSADA’s testing depart-
ment, said at the online press conference. Moscow and several other regions have declared lockdowns to stem the spread of the coronavirus, which has so far infected 165,929 people across Russia. The country has recorded 1,537 deaths from the virus. RUSADA was suspended in 2015 after WADA found evidence of mass doping in Russian athletics. The agency was conditionally reinstated in September 2018, but was declared non-compliant late last year after WADA found Moscow had provided it with doctored laboratory data. Russia is in the process of appealing a four-year ban on its athletes competing at major international sporting events under their flag as punishment for that alteration of laboratory data.
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Former cricketers say Gayle, Russell exits will negatively impact Tallawahs KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Two former national cricketers have warned that the exit of T20 stars Chris Gayle and Andre Russell from the Jamaica Tallawahs will have repercussions for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) franchise team. Wayne Lewis believes it would be a big blow for the outfit if Russell follows through on his decision to make 2020 his last year playing for Tallawahs, and therefore urged the franchise to try to make things right with him; while Nehemiah Perry says Gayle’s abrupt departure is not good for either the team or the sport. Gayle, the world’s greatest T20 batsman with 13 000 runs and 22 hundreds, signed with St. Lucia Zouks last month after not being retained by Tallawahs, despite having another two years left in his contract. Last Tuesday, a day after Gayle published a series of YouTube videos accusing assistant coach Ramnaresh Sarwan of conspiring with franchise’s management to get him off the team – a claim denied by both parties – Russell announced on Instagram Live that he would play out the last year of his contract but would not be returning because he was “not comfortable”. Tallawahs signed Russell in 2018 after he returned from
a one-year ban for a doping violation. Lewis told the Jamaica Gleaner if Tallawahs lose the 32-year-old, it will impact the franchise’s ability to attract crowds, which will affect the bottom line. “He’s a crowd puller for the Tallawahs. When he plays at home, a lot more persons will come and watch him play. From an economic standpoint, it’s going to be a big blow for them. Can they get a player of his calibre to replace him? I doubt that very much,” he said. “If he is going somewhere else, then we are going to be robbed of that and [because of] the revenue situation with the Tallawahs, they must be mindful about that and, therefore, they need to work things out with him. It’s not good for the Tallawahs, it’s not good for the Jamaican people.” Russell had said in his Instagram Live that he did not feel respected at Tallawahs, which he described as “the weirdest franchise that I have ever played in”. He also accused the leadership of poor communication. “I think another franchise that has been coming last and fifth and fourth in CPL will appreciate me more,” he had said. Lewis has suggested that Tallawahs try to repair its relationship with Russell to
keep him playing for his home franchise. “I hope that they work it out so they can keep him and that we continue to enjoy and watch him play while he is performing at a high level, taking brilliant catches, running out people, hitting sixes. He is a winner. He is the number one T20 player in the world, and he is playing at home, and Jamaicans love to watch him play. We want to see him at least five times in the CPL every year,” he said. Russell had also suggested he was not happy with the treatment meted out to Gayle, who turns 41 in September. The big hitter played his first four CPL seasons with Tallawahs and then turned out for the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots in 2017 and 2018 seasons. He returned to Tallawahs in 2019 on a threeyear contract, but the team ended the tournament bottom of the table, winning just two of 10 matches. Speaking with the Gleaner, Perry said it would be very difficult to get a replacement for Gayle, and the focus now should be on getting the team “motivated, spirited, and ready to go”. “What you want is 11 players, or 13 men who are going to die for each other out there,” he told the newspaper, adding that the public fallouts would not augur well for either the team or the sport.
Premier League clubs must back neutral venues says LMA chief
(Reuters) - The English Premier League season could be cancelled if teams did not agree to play the remaining 92 fixtures in neutral venues amid the COVID-19 pandemic, League Managers Association (LMA) chief executive Richard Bevan said yesterday. Professional football has been suspended since midMarch due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has killed more than 32,000 people in the United Kingdom, the highest death toll in Europe. Discussions are continuing about resuming matches after clubs were told on a Premier League conference call
Richard Bevan at the Annual Management Conference of the League Managers Association at the British Museum, London. (Action Images / Steven Paston)
earlier this month that only neutral venues approved from a health and safety point of view will be allowed. Asked if the 2019/20 campaign would be cancelled if teams voted against playing in neutral venues, Bevan told the BBC: “Yes, I think that probably is correct.” “The government, if they haven’t already, will be making it clear that home matches with densely populated stadia, really puts into question
whether social distancing rules can be adhered to.” Brighton & Hove Albion and Aston Villa are opposed to the idea of playing their remaining games at neutral venues and LMA chief Bevan said clubs needed to get on board with the proposal if the season was to go ahead. Brighton chief Paul Barber had previously said playing in neutral venues would have a “material effect on the integrity of the competition.”
“It doesn’t bode well for youngsters and people who are aspiring to play cricket to come into an environment like that. I think we need to be a little bit more responsible. We need to be a little bit more practical in what we do and what we say because a lot of people out there look up to people like those – the Sarwans, the Gayles, and the Russells. They have them as their mentors, and to hear all of this is not good for cricket.” In addition to Gayle’s exit and Russell planned departure, Tallawahs head coach Donovan Miller and manager
T20 stars Chris Gayle (left) and Andre Russell. Andrew Richardson have left the team. It is not certain whether there will be a CPL tournament this year, given the COVID-
19 pandemic that has stalled sporting events across the globe, but franchises have been putting together their teams.
MCC to extend president Sangakkara’s term amid coronavirus crisis LONDON (Reuters) - Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara will be offered a one-year extension as president of the Marylebone Cricket Club in the “extraordinary circumstances” resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the MCC said yesterday. Sangakkara became the first non-British president of the MCC, the custodian of cricket’s laws, when he took over in October last year.The disruption caused by the outbreak prompted the MCC committee to offer the 42-year-old to continue until Sept 30, 2021, a motion likely to be approved in its June 24 annual general meeting. “Whilst Presidents of MCC only normally serve for a twelve-month period, it is not unprecedented for longer terms to be introduced Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara to respond to extraordinary circumstances,” speaks during a news conference in MCC said in a statement, citing the stints of Lord Hawke (1914-18) and Stanley Colombo June 27, 2015. (REUTERS/ Christopherson (1939-45). Dinuka Liyanawatte/File Photo)
British boxing chiefs issue guidelines for return to ring AFP - Boxers fighting in Britain would be required to wear masks during ring walks and would be banned from using a spit bucket under proposals to allow for a resumption of the sport, it was reported yesterday. Boxing authorities are reportedly gearing up for a July re-start following the coronavirus shutdown. The BBC said a consultation document sent to promoters proposed that boxing cards would take place behind closed doors with a maximum five bouts and no “championship contests”. Boxers would be allowed to box without a mask but referees and corner staff would be obliged to wear them.All boxers, trainers and referees would be tested for COVID19 48 hours before fights and would self-isolate at a hotel until their test result was known.Eddie Hearn, the promoter of British heavyweight
Eddie Hearn (left) is the promoter of heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua. (AFP/File / Fayez Nureldine) champion Anthony Joshua, tweeted: “Huge (but mostly sensible) barriers to overcome to make it happen but when the time comes we will be ready.”British heavyweight Dillian Whyte is due to fight former world cham-
pion Alexander Povetkin in Manchester on July 4. British light-heavyweight Anthony Yarde, who has lost his father and grandmother to coronavirus, is due to take on compatriot Lyndon Arthur in London on July 11.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday May 07, 2020
Nagamootoo played his 5 Tests in five different Continents Feels T20 is taking away the interest from 4-Day cricket By Sean Devers
F
ormer Guyana and West Indies legspinner 44-yearo l d M a h e n d r a Ve e r e n Nagamootoo was never given an extended run in a Five-Test career which lasted from August 2000 to October 2002 and played in a single Test in five different Continents. In his five Tests he has taken 12 with a best of 3-119 and scored 168 with a highest score of 68 against Australia, while in 24 ODIs he took 18 wickets with a best of 4-32. In his 102 First-Class matches Nagamootoo scored 2,578 runs with one century and seven fifties, while he captured 370 wickets with a best of 7-76 and took 13 fivewicket hauls and two 10wicket hauls. In 107 List ‘A’ games, Nagamootoo has 142 wickets with a best of 5-23 and a highest score of 63. In seven T20 games he has nine scalps with a best of 5-15. Nagamootoo has played for Port Mourant, Berbice, Guyana and West Indies U19s, Berbice, Guyana, West Indies Select X1, West Indies Board X1, West Indies ‘A’ and West Indies. He has also played club cricket in Trinidad. He was born on October 9, 1975, in in the Village of Whim in Corentyne, Berbice to Simon Nagamootoo and Mavis Kallicharran and attended the Manchester High School. Cricket runs in his blood; former West Indies Captain Alvin Kallicharran and Guyana First-Class legspinner Derick Kallicharran are his mother’s siblings, while arguable Guyana
finest batsman, Rohan Kanhai is a relative from his father’s side. If that was not enough, his younger brother Vishal Nagamootoo was Guyana’s Wicket-Keeper during a large part of Mahendra’s First-Class career. And just for good measure his uncle Mosses Nagamootoo, is the Prime Minister of Guyana. “I first became interested in being a cricketer when I was 11 years old when I played for my Village team, Whim Nationals cricket club,” informed ‘Yanko’ as he is called by his close friends. Vishaul became a Keeper because Mahendra would bowl all day at the side of their yard and his younger brother would have to stop the balls. He is one of three
migrated to the USA and has a daughter (Natalie) from his previous marriage. The right arm leggie who bats left-handed, made his Berbice U-19 debut when he was 16 and the same year played for Guyana in the Regional U-19 tournament. He played at that level for four years. ‘Nagass’ dominated youth cricket as a competent bowling all-rounder who was good enough to score 108 against the Windwards. In 1992 Guyana began an unpresented six-year winning streak in Regional U-19 Cricket with Nagamootoo playing a key role in the first three years after making his Senior Inter-County debut in 1992. Nagamootoo also played club cricket in Trinidad for
Nagamootoo was also good enough to score a Test 50 and an FC century.
siblings since he also has a sister, Natasha. Mahendra married Nadia Brijmohan in 2015 when he
Central Sports in 2012 and for Munroe Road in 2013 & 2014. “First division cricket
B’ce were the 1998 senior Inter County 4-day champs for the first time in 20 years (Nagamootoo is 4th from standing).
Nagamootoo, his wife Nadia and his Boss Dave Narine of Dave West Indian imports. was very competitive, while I was playing for Mourant, playing with cricketers like Dhaniram and Clayton L a m b e r t , ” s a i d Nagamootoo. The Berbician made his First-Class debut for Guyana in 1995 and played his first 50-over game the next year. In the 1998 Senior InterCounty four-day tournament, Skipper Nagamootoo took 5-102 from 61 overs and was backed up Sean Devers who had 3-81 from 62 overs at Albion as Berbice took first innings points and beat Demerara for the first time in 20 years. Clayton Lambert returned and took over the Captaincy as Berbice beat Essequibo who were bowled for 31 which remains the Inter-County record for lowest total. Nagamootoo took nine wickets in the game including five in the second. Devers had 6-12 in the first innings and pacer Kevin Darlington 5-22 in the second innings as Berbice won the Hand-in-Hand title at a ram-packed Hampton Court ground in Essequibo. In the 2000 Regional First Class season, Nagamootoo grabbed 34 wickets and scored 446 runs including his only FirstClass century and a halfcentury. This performance helped him to a West Indies Test debut in August 2000 against host England at the Oval, but he only played a solitary Test on that tour. His highest Test score came in Australia when the majority of the runs in his
shot-filled 68 came of legspinner Shane Warne but that was to be his lone Test of that series. Nagamootoo also played a single Test in South Africa and one more on his South American home ground Bourda where he dismissed Sachin Tendulkar before he was again dropped. In the 2002 Regional season, he became the first bowler to claim 50 wickets in a single season. His wickets came at an Average of 22.40 and included four five-wicket hauls with a best of 6-61. This earned him a Test recall for the trip to India where he played the last of his Tests on October 2002 in Mumbai. “My most memorable moment playing for Guyana was when we won the KFC Cup against Barbados at Bourda in 2005. We were delighted and what makes it more satisfying is that since then we have not won another one-day Trophy,” the slimly built leg-spinner stated. That Final was played almost 15 years ago on October 6, 2005 and Guyana won by seven runs on the (D/L) system in fading light when Neil McGarrell hit left arm spinner Sulieman Benn back over his head. Nagamootoo captured 353, while McGarrell had 357 as Barbados reached 2489 in 50 overs. Guyana’s Ramnaresh Sarwan had scored two centuries in Barbados and one in the semi-finals at Bourda. However, he was removed for five by pacer
Corey Collymore but a Manof-the-Match 119 from opener Sewnarine Chattergoon and 34 each from Krishna Arjune and Narsingh Deonarine, saw Guyana to 247-7 when bad light stopped after 49 overs. Nagamootoo was a member of Guyana’s team when each player became Millionaires by defeating Trinidad in the final of the inaugural Sanford T20 tournament in Antigua in 2006. “That was the most exciting tournament I have ever played in, we were treated like Kings and we had so much fun. I remember that night sitting with the other players in the dug-out. We needed five from two balls and were so nervous and tense. As (Samuel) Badree ran in to bowl to Narsingh (Deonarine), the Guyanese fans were shouting and waving Guyana flags and when he hit him for six we all raced out…some screaming, some crying…wow that was a match,” Nagamootoo recounted. During the 2007 Regional season, left arm s p i n n e r Ve e r a s a m m y Permaul replaced Neil McGarrell, while Nagamootoo was dropped at 31, for Davendra Bishoo, who was then 21, to make his First-class debut against CCC at Providence, Mar 710, 2008, as old guards were changed for younger players. “When I was dropped I was still young and playing well and I was (Continued on page 19)