Kaieteur News

K

AIETEUR Chinese supermarket robbed; one shot

NEWS

p.22

Wednesday Edition October 14, 2020 - Vol. 15 No.39

- bandits escape after standoff with cops Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 Two accused in readership yesterday, Robb St. arson/murder p.15 121,846 freed on no-case submission

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

Senegal Gas fields vs Guyana Canje block ST. LOUIS OFFSHORE PROFOND

Senegal

Guyana

CANJE BLOCK WHICH WAS GIVEN TO

Map showing the two controversial gas fields off the coast of Senegal

Mid-Atlantic Oil & Gas Inc.

The Canje Block offshore Guyana (Credit: JHI)

Estimated to have 5.1 Billion Barrels

CAYAR OFFSHORE PROFOND

Senegal loses Canje owner billions of dollars had no assets, no proven after awarding track record, gas blocks to no finances unqualified to acquire company Canje block p.8

p.3

SARA disbanded p.20

Wednesday October 14, 2020

PAGE 3

Kaieteur News

Senegal loses billions of dollars after awarding gas blocks to unqualified company

Would you give someone who has never built a house before, all your savings to construct your dream home?

Would you allow someone who is not a doctor to perform surgery on you?

Would you let someone who has never studied dentistry extract one of your rotten teeth?

The obvious answer to these questions is a resounding NO! It is clear that experience and a proven track record in a particular area are critical qualities to consider before giving a person or a company, an important job to do.

Furthermore, if an individual would consider these two factors in their decision making process then it is expected that a government would do the same.

Unfortunately, this is not always the case says Expert on Oil Sector Corruption, Alexandra Gillies. In her most recent analysis that examines Senegal’s petroleum industry, Gillies said that the administration that is led by President, Macky Sall, gave away two of his nation’s most prime offshore gas fields to a company that has zero experience, much less a proven track record of safe development of such resources.

In her report, Gillies noted that Frank Timis, a RomanianAustralian businessman with a corrupt past and no experience in offshore exploration, created a company called PetroTim in

Controversial businessman, Frank Timis

President of Senegal, Macky Sall

Aliou Sall, the brother of Senegal’s President

Expert on Oil Sector Corruption, Alexandra Gillies

2012 and registered same in the Cayman Islands. After creating that company, Gillies noted that he used it to gain the rights to two offshore concessions, Saint Louis and Cayar, the same year.

Two years later, he created another shell company called Timis

Corporation, registered same in the British Virgin Islands, and hired the brother of the President, Aliou Sall, to run the show.

It is important to note that the President’s brother also has little to no experience in deep water exploration and production.

Less than two months after registering the new company and hiring the President’s brother, the company started selling out the interest in the gas fields as it lacked the finances to do honour to the exploration programme.

Gillies noted that Timis

Corporation sold 60 percent of the shares to American oil company Kosmos in 2014 for over US$400M. That same year, Kosmos found major natural gas reserves. The United Kingdom (UK) oil giant British Petroleum (BP) subsequently joined the partnership and acquired 30

percent of the blocks’ interest which saw Timis getting more than US$200M. In 2017, BP then bought out Timis Corporation for US$250M. That company had held the remaining shares in the gas blocks. BP also agreed to pay Timis at least US$12B in royalties over a 40year period. In total, Timis made approximately US$900M in cash within five years of acquiring the blocks and today, the 55 year-old is set for life with at least US$12B more to follow.

Considering this glaring theft of the nation’s prime gas assets, Gillies said companies which have no track record or experience in the industry as well as little to no finances or assets to carry out the required work programmes, are clearly not qualified to own oil and gas assets. The oil expert stressed that it is a glaring red flag that always warrants scrutiny by civil society.

PAGE 4

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

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

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

EDITORIAL

Why the shell company maze?

When a group of individuals gather, put their heads together, and come up with a certain approach to conduct their business secretly, that is usually the first clue provided that something is afoot, that things are not on the up and up. When they reach and settle for the conclusion that a shell company serves their purposes best, that confirms that the conspiratorial men are up to no good. That is what has happened and where Guyanese are, with our oil in general, and the rich Canje and Kaieteur oil blocks in particular. A ‘shell company’ could be generally described as a business entity created for some commercial purpose, which does not have to be illegal. Outside of abstract definitions, there is the real world of shell companies and the reputation they have attracted, the scurrilous records compiled over long years from lengthier underhanded practices. It is one best captured by the word ‘notoriety’ with deception being the uppermost, objective.

And, however, the document trail of related records is analyzed and interpreted, there is one place where all discussions terminate.

That is what has happened with the awards of and the subsequent business dealings associated with Guyana’s Canje and Kaieteur oil blocks which reek of the conspiratorial, the unethical, and the outright criminal. To begin with, there is the closed circle of trusted players deciding on who will be responsible for doing what, and how those duties are executed. This is accompanied by stubborn efforts to maintain secrecy as to identities, objectives, and actions actually taken, which are all conducted under a tight canopy of cunning camouflages.

In the corporate world, this is normally of the personally self-enhancing, even if such means that standing corporate policies and procedures have to be violated, and the laws of the land breached. In Guyana, what has occurred with the Canje and Kaieteur oil blocks points unerringly to the skillful self-enriching of this country’s political leadership across the board. Along with the trusted middlemen, all benefit hugely from the billions of U.S. dollars that are represented by those two fabulously rich Guyanese oil blocks. Shell companies facilitate the flow of assets from the state (Guyana) to the recipients, who are well-tutored in the specific criminal concealment roles they have to play.

One shell company is bad enough and suspicious, especially when the concealed and the unknown are part of mix, and which made necessary going to the trouble to be careful in crossing ‘tees’ and dotting ‘I’s’ so that there is the standard paperwork and official records, which give the out of sight and under the table activities the appearance of a sheen of shaky legitimacy. Except that in the case of Guyana, such is not the case at all. Not when secrecy has abounded.

Not when involved political leaders have not been forthcoming, but immovably silent. Not when the constitutional check and balance of an opposition (once in government, and privy to documents, as well as responsible for oversight) pretends at similar dumbness through uninterrupted ambivalence. As said in the preceding paragraph, one shell company with Guyana’s oil raises alarms, particularly in the light of the buzzword of ‘transparency’ being bandied about effortlessly by the new president. The president may be new, but what is being covered up via a shell company is as old as man, perhaps older than the profession of political prostitution, which rages in Guyana and ought to be legalized, given what has happened with the Canje and Kaieteur oil blocks.

We say this because the henchmen doing the dirty oil business for the PPP leadership needed to establish more than one shell companies. The result is secrecy piled upon secrecy, which is further compounded by the registering of companies involved in robbing Guyanese of those oil blocks in jurisdictions that do not disclose any details on anything (anything) concerning those blocks.

When criminally-inclined political leaders go to great lengths to operate this way, then only the worst can be imagined, which is now confirmed. Significant ownership shares in those blocks end up with Exxon, with everybody in the criminal political and company conspiracy richer.

Meanwhile, Guyanese are cheated again, made poorer again.

Yet there is hardly any stirring.

Genuine collaboration at the highest level is the most desirable endeavor our leaders can pursue Dear Editor, We the people look forward to working with decision-makers to build our nation in a sustainable manner; we crave national reconciliation and equal opportunity for all Guyanese.

Despite the drama experienced for approximately six months after the recent general and regional elections, the people deserve a less dramatic transition of governance, particularly as we cope with the dreadful COVID-19 pandemic.

There seems to be the adoption of a ‘winner-take-all’ approach by the authorities; a posture that was steadfastly rejected by our late great leader Dr. Cheddi Jagan. Now more than ever, genuine collaboration at the highest political level to achieve a unified approach to the

governance of this country is the most desirable endeavor our leaders can pursue.

I recall the wise words of the late Executive President, Dr. Cheddi Bharat Jagan during his inauguration on October 5, 1992 after the PPP/ Civic won the general elections: “We will once again build national, racial, ethnic and working people’s unity. The unity of our entire nation is our goal”.

It should be clear to all that our country will never be prosperous until all people live in brotherhood, enjoying equal rights and opportunities; all must realise that entitlement to take part in the administration of the country and the national wealth must be restored to the people even-handedly. That only a democratic state, based on the will of the Guyanese

people, can secure to all their birthright without distinction of colour, race, sex or belief.

We have attained the first objective of a change of Government. This is the time for political maturity; a time to move forward together and make into reality our motto “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”.

If there ever was a time to reflect on the words of Nelson Mandela uttered at the infamous Rivonia Trial that concluded with his imprisonment and that of some of his colleagues in 1964: “During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all

persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.” Those thoughts should be embodied in our national ethos.

The countries and institutions that played a role in overseeing the recent electoral process must be sincerely thanked for their support. We the people look forward to similar support from them to secure Human Rights and inclusionary democracy so that all our people can obtain a fair share of the nation’s wealth.

Inclusionary democracy offers the only political environment in which the country may flourish.

Yours Sincerely, Sherwood Clarke

Arrogance, ignorance, and corruption among politicians Dear Editor, The public applauds KN and other media for exposing wrongdoings from officials regardless of who they are. I traveled extensively and have been involved in research and opinion polling in several countries. Everywhere I went, in conversations with people, I received the same complaint about politicians, particularly Ministers. Some are very arrogant that the people can’t have a conversation with them or voice their opinion on issue or on governance.

Some are ignorant lacking understanding of issues and even about their own presence in parliament, government, and any ministry they are attached but they behave like they know everything. And some are corrupt in addition to being guilty of the preceding two charges. All of the above apply to some politicians, not all of them, in Guyana and in neighbouring Trinidad where I spent considerable time since 1981 to seek assistance for the restoration of democracy in Guyana in 1992 and for other reasons after that achievement.

I have not encountered evidence of the above three charges from August 2 in Guyana, but there are early warning signs, according to friends I spoke with and reports in the media, of some heading in the above direction sooner than later.

The leadership may wish to take note of public concerns of the behaviour of some before there is a repeat of what transpired in an earlier era that led to disastrous results in May,

2015. Some have stopped answering phone calls and have no time for the public including those who helped them reach where they are.

I studied and read a lot and traveled to several countries, some of them to learn from first hand experience about their countries. When I was a student in college starting out at the tender age of 17 spending perhaps more years in university than others in pursuing two Bachelors, six Masters, and four doctorates, and post doctorate fellowships, I met many students from around the globe. In college, I held several posts in student governments, founded several student organizations, worked on campus including as Teaching Assistant, a tutor, registrar assistant, a librarian, and other positions. As such I interacted with so many students, including many foreigners.

Also, I was in an organization that addressed issues relating to Indians in the diaspora and through it I developed contacts and connections with foreign students of Indian origin with invitations to visit their countries.

Thus, I spent time in Fiji, Mauritius, South Africa, and off course India multiple times assisting friends who ran for political office. And I also made way to Grenada, St. Lucia, Barbados, Jamaica, Antigua, and so many other countries, visiting multiple times on research assignments including polling or surveys, some for friends. In every country, the complaint was a repeat – politicians are uncaring, self-centered, address self-interests, and are corrupt.

In Trinidad, the complaints against politicians were the

loudest. After they get elected, you can’t find MPs (not all but most) in Trinidad. You have to call the police to find out if your MP is alive; he or she is missing between elections. Much of it is also true for Guyana. And if you dare ask for service, you get mouthful of abuse. I suppose because they can’t help people politicians avoid them. But the politicians, especially in Trinidad, do help themselves and family members or close friends especially financially and in transactions that are not openly transparent.

During an election campaign, politicians have unlimited time for the public as I found in so many countries.

Politicians tend to be very accessible during campaigns.

They answer their phones. The people can insult them and they still come back pleading for votes; election is the only time people can give politicians a mouthful of their true feelings.

Opposition politicians, in particular, have endless time for people. They can be called any hour and they can be asked for any kind of assistance. But once the election is over, the phone number of the winners, especially if they become Ministers, is changed. All of a sudden, they can’t be reached. They have no time to answer or return calls.

They claim they are busy, but they do virtually nothing productive. They reject calls from people who got them elected. I remember an encounter with a MP (PNM) in Trinidad, Jarrette Narine (of Arouca) who gave his mobile number to me to call him any time. He said all of his constituents had his mobile

contact and could call any time. He did serve his constituents well based on a survey I conducted and indeed he did answer peoples’ calls. A few UNC MPs (like Chandresh Sharma, Trevor Sudama, Ramesh Maharaj) also served their constituents well but were not rewarded by the voters or the party.

I had access to politicians almost all the time wherever I traveled although at times I too was rejected. They generally don’t avoid me like how they avoid the public probably because I don’t seek resources from them. In almost all cases, I sought to help them or their government or the country.

Politicians also don’t want to get on my wrong side because of my power of the pen and reputation in conducting polls. (They know I am not fearful to write the truth regardless of political consequences, and they don’t wish to make negative news; I don’t depend on them for roti).

Politicians must be careful with how they treat the public. I studied enough elections worldwide and conducted many surveys internationally to read the mood of electorates. Those who are arrogant, get off your high horse. Those who think they know everything, their knowledge is limited. Consult real experts and professionals for advice! Five years go by very quickly and the public can be revengeful as happened in 2015 and 2020.

Yours truly, Dr. Vishnu Bisram

Wednesday October 14, 2020

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

I commend GTT for launching the Pinktober initiative Dear Editor, I refer to the SN article of October 12, captioned, “GTT Pinktober campaign touches GPH cancer patients.” I seek the courtesy of consideration and space to share what is close to me from personal histories that remind daily and inspire always. It is of what could possibly lift a few other survivors, too; perhaps many other citizens.

I commend the management and staff of the GTT for launching this initiative and staying with it for several years now. It is a wonderful corporate gesture, which I have been near to on at least one occasion. I am buoyed by it, and I think that others are provided succor from the efforts of the team of

volunteers that plan and organize and who then reach out and touch. This year, all those components are compounded stubbornly and negatively by the frightening local realities of the COVID19 pandemic. It is what makes the GTT endeavors to deliver as part of what is now a peculiarly Guyanese Oktoberfest in the form of Pinktober even more warming. At least, I think so and I so welcome it.

Pink is a color I know well and am proud to wear all year round, be it via shirts or ties or a ribbon. And one does not have to be a survivor (in the extended sense of the word) to wear pink in any of its lush hues. It does not have to be October only,

either. For there is the awareness, as we grapple with this raging existential virus currently before us, there is also the sweeping menace of cancer in all of its forms and bodily afflictions that is of undeclared pandemic proportions, too; except that cancer is still not so recognized, though generally feared from the specter of the brutalities that could come.

Ah, I have been too close to those and on more than one occasion. It has been with the closest family, and then with totally unknown strangers.

This is one of the reasons why I write today, as I turn my back momentarily, and take the break that we all need, from our battering, bruising affairs, those other diseases

that degrade us all. We do not have to be strangers where cancer is concerned, not in this community, where everybody knows everybody, especially of the bad things. We do not have to be distant and unconnected and unconcerned strangers where cancer and COVID-19 and the host of other plagues that imperil us. As I laud the GTT people, I also extend a salute to our volunteers – strangers no more – who man our hotlines and visit our hospice ill, among a range of embracing gestures.

Editor, believe me when I say that there are few things that comfort as much, that humbles as much, and that brings home how vulnerable and helpless we are-

Oil block awards should be nullified Dear Editor, The government should move to reclaim the oil blocks.

The law is on our side for nullification of any block awards given out.

With reference to filed lawsuits and threatened suits of libel, and amidst claims by Donald Ramotar, Robert Persaud, and the PNC (APNU) that they knew nothing about the oil blocks, then the blocks are unoccupied, free, and available for bidding and exploration. And since the awarding of the blocks did not follow proper procedures, then all such awards and associated contracts and agreements relating to them must be considered nullified and of no effect.

Ramotar and Persaud blame each other for whatever went wrong with the giving away of blocks in which the country played no role in the bidding process. Some are so barefaced that they don’t even want the public to know the truth. Any little exposure of corruption and they threaten a lawsuit.

Since neither Robert nor Donald knows about the blocks, and since the current government as well as the preceding PNC-led government have washed its hands of who are owners of the blocks, it sounds to reason that there are no owners. Then by logical deduction, the blocks are free.

It means Dookie and others

didn’t get any block. It means the blocks are available for ownership. Nah so Dooks!

The country did not benefit from the blocks.

Dookie and others did not pay taxes in transferring ownership. And in fact, ownership should not have been transferred. The country did not agree to transfer of ownership.

So any awards, by law, are nullified. Those blocks should be put up for tendering under public watch.

The government should proceed immediately to advertise for bidding. This should be done quickly to allow for immediate drilling given the small window of opportunity to cash in on oil

resources before oil gets overtaken by alternative energy systems.

Our country has people of competence, and where lacking, the Guyanese diaspora has competent lawyers, engineers, and professionals to reclaim the blocks for the nation and to recommend prosecution against those who misleadingly acquired blocks and those who received kickbacks for the blocks.

Yours truly Shawn Simmons

physically, psychologically, and materially-when disease comes and stays. These moments of a hand extended in the strangest, yet so familiar, of human fellowships remind me of what we can do and how we can be when crises creep and existence is threatened.

There are the unheralded many who do such little things which mean so much to those on the receiving end.

Those little unspoken things are meaningful in the grandness of their bigness, as they are delivered in the fields of health and suffering; and before those with and without. They raise the bar on what could be shoddy hourly survival, and on those who give of themselves, as

well as they who receive and welcome what is given so wholeheartedly, so caringly.

And as much as I hesitate to tarnish this writing by going to other detested places, I must if only to expand the horizons of our visions and devotions, as to what could be possible. If we can do this successfully, so very well, in the realms of struggles and needs, and make others better, if only for a moment, then I venture that we can bring contribute the same in the communal and national wards that cry out for similar healing.

The receptions may not be as generous, but the agonizing pains are definitely present.

Yours truly, GHK Lall

PAGE 6

Kaieteur News

The battle against racism should be lead by the government Dear Editor, Racism has always been a timeless scourge to human cohesion, cooperation, and development. Many manmade disasters have been caused due to racist tendencies found in humans.

These include, but is not limited to: The Holocaust, which targeted 2/3rd of Europe’s Jews between 1933-1945, the Rwandan Genocide, in which 70% of Rwanda’s Tutsi population was exterminated in 1994, and the Armenian genocide, where 1.5 million ethnic Armenians were killed and expelled from Turkey (then part of the Ottoman Empire) from

1914-1917. In each of the genocides mentioned above, one ethnic group believed themselves to be superior to the ethnically cleansed group, and thus yielded to their racist tendencies and massacred the discriminated. All in all, racism is dangerous and can cost others their lives if left unchecked.

Guyana, while we might not have experienced ethnic genocide, racism still affects our growth and development as a nation.

Despite our abundance of resources, ethnic supremacy has resulted in development being stymied and our nation still being considered as poor by economic indices. Racism

negatively impacts our c o u n t r y, t h e r e f o r e a l l Guyanese must join together to stand up to this evil.

Regular citizens can only do so much, however.

The battle against racism should be lead by the government, who are elected to govern for all Guyanese, no matter what ethnic group they identify as.

To p r o m o t e s o c i a l cohesion, the government must tackle the racist trolls which masquerade themselves on social media. These sickening humans see everything through their limited ethnic lens, and as such, spout o u t u g l y, d a n g e r o u s

words. I believe any holistic response to racism should nullify these racists who abuse their freedom of speech. One modern way to address these trolls is to utilize Artificial Intelligence (A.I.).

Researchers in San Francisco has developed a new online tool earlier this year to tackle racism against Asian Americans, which has exploded in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The tool is creatively named “Respond2Racism” and not only tracks these incidents of racism but also to educate and empower others to speak up. I am sure if the Government of Guyana wants to utilize a similar tool to monitor the racist trolls which are present on Guyanese social media, software developers would be willing to assist.

This would not be the only response to racism, but it may go a long way in assisting the authorities to confront racists who decide to hide behind a screen.

Only until we have conquered the ethnic divisions in Guyanese society, will our country begin to experience true peace and cohesion. Live long and prosper.

Yours truly, Jordon Nelson

Wednesday October 14, 2020

The legacy of Justice Claudette Singh will remain intact Dear Editor, The Guyana Police Force has been tirelessly conducting their investigations into malpractice committed by various political personages as well as senior members of GECOM as a result of the Director of Public Prosecution’s intervention into what was once a private criminal filing in the Courts.

This investigation is being done by an Agency that is free from any form of intervention or external direction.

Desmond Trotman, Commissioner of GECOM, seems hell bent on chastising the Chairman of GECOM, Justice Claudette Singh for her posture in these investigations. Her missive of the 9th October, 2020 seems to suggest that the information requested by the Police was made directly to her. In her thoroughness, she thought it fit to bring the request to a meeting of the Commission for it to be ventilated and discussed.

This is a move that was neither necessary nor required. In fact, she even questioned the Police as to the purpose of the information requested as it was realized that such information is personal and confidential in nature. Having interrogated the request, an acceptable compromise was arrived at in that she provided job descriptions of the members of staff which is something that is not confidential. Why then is Desmond Trotman

suggesting that Justice Singh is complicit in not protecting the rights of staff of GECOM? Vincent Alexander also alludes to her being a party to “persecution” of staff.

Then there is Joseph Harmon, who speaks about the “tattered legacy” that Justice Singh is leaving behind. Might I advise Mr. Harmon that such statements are blatantly and flagrantly misdirected and a clear attempt to drive fear in Justice Singh in the hopes that she may resign as Chairman.

Justice Singh has stood up, time and time again, against those who would see this country go down a path of anarchy. Mr. Harmon, the legacy of Justice Singh will remain intact and she will always be remembered for her strong conviction in preserving democracy in Guyana.

Justice Claudette Singh’s approach to the investigation is clearly how the Head of a Statutory Agency should operate.

She cannot intervene nor direct the Police on how to carry out their functions. She is not required to condemn their actions and concomitantly, she has a mandate to assist in whatever may be required.

Justice Singh, do not be dismayed by the likes of Trotman, Alexander or Harmon. Your actions and legacy will be forever remembered by all straightthinking people in Guyana.

Yours truly, Malcolm Edwards

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 07

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Canje owner had no assets, no proven track record, no finances to acquire Canje block

M

id-Atlantic has no assets, proven track record, finances to acquire Canje block It has been seven years since Mid-Atlantic Oil and Gas Inc. registered as a company, and five years since it was awarded the Canje oil block. It is now 2020, and Mid-Atlantic has not stabilized itself at an office space, and its website

is still ‘Under Construction’.

This paints a fair picture of the company entrusted by the Donald Ramotar administration with the job of developing one of Guyana’s most lucrative oil blocks, now estimated to hold 5.1 billion oilequivalent barrels, worth more than US$200B even by today’s depressed oil prices.

Mid-Atlantic received the Canje block without

demonstrating the requisite assets, proven track record and finances to acquire and develop such a block.

When the company was incorporated, two directors were named, Nicholas Chuck-A-Sang and Hewley Nelson.

Nelson has served on several public boards, and was even General Manager of Hand-in-Hand Trust, but he has no experience to boast Former director, Nicholas Chuck-A-Sang in oil and gas work. ChuckA-Sang is a petroleum engineer, whose years in the public service and with private consultancies, especially in mining, do not equip him with what is required to develop ultradeep water oil blocks.

One other individual, Edris Kamal Dookie, whose email address is found on the Canje agreement and was later identified as the company’s sole shareholder, also could not have brought what is needed to the table.

He had founded CGX, alongside the Canadian, John Cullen in 1996. The company benefitted from several licences granted to it by the Guyana government over the years, but has very limited drilling experience to tout. Studying the details of the Canje block would certainly lead one to question how such a big block fell into such tiny hands.

Located 180km offshore

Director and sole shareholder, Edris ‘Kamal’ Dookie

Former director, Hewley Nelson Guyana, the Canje block lies in ultra-deep water. There are only a handful of companies in the world with the capability and track record to drill in ultra-deep water, including ExxonMobil, Royal Dutch Shell, Chevron, BP and Total. Mid-Atlantic is certainly not one of them.

This is why, immediately after it was awarded the block, the company started to sell off stakes.

Mere weeks after receiving Canje, MidAtlantic handed stakes in the block to JHI Associates, a company run by Collen, Dookie’s Canadian associate with whom he founded CGX. Cullen’s company also did not have the requisite assets, proven track record and finances to develop ultra-deep water blocks.

Like Mid-Atlantic, it was formed only a few years before receiving stakes in the block, and appears to have

been formed for the sole purpose of owning the Canje block.

The unqualified owners of the block later went on to sell a 35 percent stake in the block to ExxonMobil in February, 2016. Exxon went on to become the operator of the block, later that year. The companies also sold another 35 percent stake in the block to the French oil major, Total SE in February, 2018.

With the assets, finances and track record needed, these two oil majors can develop the Canje block.

However, the circumstances under which the block reached those companies likely resulted in losses for Guyana to the tune of billions of US dollars.

It is unclear what percentage of those losses was paid to Mid-Atlantic and JHI Associates. The monies paid to them for the transfers in stakes were never made public.

Guyana CANJE BLOCK WHICH WAS GIVEN TO Mid-Atlantic Oil & Gas Inc.

The Canje Block offshore Guyana (Credit: JHI)

Estimated to have 5.1 Billion Barrels

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

PAGE 09

Packing your traps

A

controversy erupted earlier this week when a reassigned employee of a Ministry tried to access her office. The Ministry had to call in the police because they feared that the woman may have been unwilling to accept her reassignment.

However, when she did meet with the Minister she indicated that all she wanted to do was to retrieve her personal belonging from the office.

This column is not about the controversy. Rather it is about the fact that quite a bit of personal belonging are usually kept in a person’s office.

Most of you would have seen movies in which persons were fired on the spot. In those movies, the persons fired would often be seen with a small carton box in which they would pack their personal belongings.

On the day I retired, I left the same way that I came in – empty-handed.

The only personal belonging which I have ever had reason to have at the office was a pocket dictionary which would be used to verify the spelling of certain words. This was before the internet and computers which can now be used to fact check and spell check.

These days, with the amount of time people spend at the office, it virtually becomes a home away from home - something which should be discouraged. The trend these days is for some executives to have photo frames on their desks. These usually contain photographs of their loved ones.

The office is now also a mini-kitchen. Back in the day most persons lived close

to where they worked.

The lunch break used to be one and a half hours, which gave the person sufficient time to rush, home, eat, have a powersnooze and return to work in time for the afternoon session.

These days most persons are working far from home and not many persons are going home for lunch. As such, people are walking with their plates, spoons and forks to work.

Back in the day after work you went home. These days many workers go to the gym or classes after work and therefore they have to have their gym wear or a change of clothes with them.

The office thus becomes a mini-wardrobe.

A few years ago, I visited an executive in her office and when she opened one of her desk drawers I was stunned by what I saw. She virtually had an entire makeup kit there, including nail files and clippers and various accessories for her hair.

There was even a curling iron. I guess she ensured that she was well-made up when she had to attend meetings.

Some women usually have a pair of flat shoes to move around the office, leaving the heels for coming to and going from work.

There are certain items of course which are associated with work but which are personal and which everyone has a right to remove.

These include your pay slips and other records which verify certain transactions which you may need to have as proof. But personal items such as credit cards, bank books and spare home keys should not be

kept in the office.

I know of one man who made his Last Will and Testament and kept the copies at his office.

He died on the job and his family never knew that he had made a Will.

It was not until his wife was probating his estate that this was discovered and it caused quite an embarrassment because he had left very little for her in the Will.

There are legitimate grounds for limiting the type of personal possessions which a person may have at work.

One time, a female member of staff claimed that some jewellery which she had in her desk drawer was stolen.

It led to a search of all the staffers. Persons these days have been known to have their cellular phones, ipads and other electronic devices stolen at work.

As such, some companies are specifying what sort of personal items can be brought to the workplace.

The other things are the photographs placed on office walls.

One executive once had a portrait of a semi-nude individual on his wall. When asked about this revealing portrait, he said it was a work-of- art.

Some persons like to place their framed academic certificates on their walls to show others how qualified they are. But the workplace is not the place for this form of exhibitionism.

A standing rule when it comes to personal possessions at the workplace is that if you are asked to leave the office suddenly, you should be able to pack

Dem boys seh...

A face dat only a mother could admire We should be paying mo attention to bigger things rather dan bothering about dem small sums wah people getting excited about in de Ministry of Local Government. Dem boys seh dat is kak-a-belly fish when compared to them whales wah swimming all around we in de oil sector.

Dem boys believe Damn -ram-Lall.

Since dem boys know he, dem know he as an honest and upright boy. Ever since de Cricket World Cup. He wan honest person…. just like Jagdeo, Rob-earth and Brazzy!

Dem boys believe Damn-ram-Lall when he talk how he didn’t give no instruction fuh print portrait. De man gat a face dat can bruk camera. So why he gan want tek out picture fuh print portrait.

Dem boys remember de time when one of dem Presidents tek out he picture fuh mek portrait. He sit down in he office admiring de

picture, when he Secretary walk in. He turned to she and asked, “How do I look in this photograph?”

Not wanting to hurt his feelings but also not wanting to lie, she said, “It may appear horrible but it is realistic and lifelike.”

Dem boys bin read many years ago about wan woman who went to an artist fuh paint she portrait. She told de artist dat she want him to paint her wearing lots of expensive jewellry.

De artist replied, “But you aren’t wearing any.”She then said, “I know, I don’t own any either. But if I die, my husband is the kind of man that will get remarried right away. I want to drive his new wife crazy looking for the jewels.”

Talk half and wait fuh see if all de fuss about portrait is not a cause of it being framed.

and go within five minutes.

If you cannot do that, it means that you have too many personal possessions at the workplace.

(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

Wednesday October 14, 2020

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Ryhaan Shah, Melissa Ifill and Guyana’s sempiternal ethnic consciousness Ms. Ryhaan Shah has replied to a column of mine (Thursday, October 8) which highlighted her emphasis on her ethnic DNA. Replying to the same article was Sherwood Lowe from UG who debunked my analysis on the African counterpart of Shah, UG’s Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr. Melissa Ifill.

Dr. Ifill wrote, “I am unapologetically black always was and always will be! I march through this life and world as a black woman.” Shah noted, “I would never negate my Indian self. It is my DNA. It is my history, my legacy, my traditions, my culture. It is my spiritual home.”

Here is what I wrote in response; “It is not that Shah and Dr. Ifill should not be proud of their ethnic DNA. What is worrying is that both say that it is that kind of DNA that determines how they see the world. Nature then determines nurture. It shouldn’t.”

Before I offer my direct responses to the contents of what Shah and Lowe wrote, an assertion of mine needs repeating. I do not think and accept that a person’s ethnic genetics should play a deterministic role in their journey through life. The human is much more complex a person to live a

one-dimensional existence.

The human that chooses to see nature, the world, people and their journey through life as determined by their genetic make-up is not only flawed but may be incapable of embracing the totality of philosophy within a holistic framework.

The words of Shah in compelling ways describe the sempiternal dilemma that Guyanese in Guyana have lived with all their lives. The five-month election rigging drama has graphically shown how the creation of thoughts like Dr. Ifill’s are dwelling deep within the psyche of the nationality known as Guyanese.

Shah wrote, “I am extremely tired of Guyana….” Most unfortunately Shah cannot see psychologically that she contributed to the Guyana that she is tired of. She went on, “I am very proud of my heritage, my ethnicity, and my culture as Kissoon writes.”

I’m glad she acknowledges that I accept people have the right to be proud of their race and culture.

But my query is how she and Dr. Ifill have adopted this culture and ethnicity that it underpins their very existence which they admit to in their own words. Shah noted her ethnicity is “her spiritual home.”

That is a sad admission that her philosophical lenses are blurred and tainted. I guess her choice of paintings, poetry, arts and music is deterministic.

Lowe’s defense of Dr. Ifill, UG’s Deputy Vice Chancellor, is one of the most ironic reactions in academic literature anywhere in the world in any century. On re-reading his protection of Dr. Ifill, Lowe cannot be that intellectually limited to see that he has in fact, by his pertinently relevant examples, rejected the premise of the statement

Dr. Ifill made. For emphasis I repeat it, “I march through this life and world as a black woman.”

Let’s now demonstrate the Freudian underpinnings in Lowe’s mind as he tried to save Dr. Ifill. He wrote, “Kissoon does not know that people are more complex than one or two of their selfidentities. We have multiple intersecting identities. A person can identify as Afrocentric and at the same time, say (sic), as a Guyanese nationalist, a socialist, a p a c i f i s t o r a humanist…outside of our multiple political identities, Blackness does not capture our full moral and social shelves.

People’s consciousness is shaped by, apart from their ethnicity and gender, the fact that they also belong or relate to families, social classes, occupations, religions, among others.”

No one can take cultural umbrage to the quotation above. What Lowe wrote that is quoted above is the substance which all human must possess. I don’t know if Lowe realizes it but he is defining the character and personality and psychic make-up of the human which is opposed to what Shah and Dr. Ifill embrace.

Frederick Kissoon If ethnicity is the spiritual home of Shah then ethnicity determines her philosophical outlook because it resides inside the essential part of our psyche the Germans referred as geist. Lowe on the order hand is telling us that there are many other determinants that should fill our spiritual home.

Lowe’s description of the psychic make-up of the human is in contradiction with Dr. Ifill’s exclamation.

Again for emphasis it is repeated for the third time, “I march through this life and world as a black woman.”

The problem with Shah and Dr. Ifill is that even if they are not consciously racist, why is it not possible that their relentless over-emphasis on ethnic consciousness have not found a Freudian home in their minds and it influences them without them being aware of it?

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

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

Kaieteur News

PAGE 12

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Driver flees scene after hitting EFCIA set to administer PCR down KN staffers COVID-19 tests to arriving passengers Instead of rendering assistance, the driver of a -as airports reopen for commercial flights tinted black Nissan Tida motorcar decided to flee the scene after he struck down two Kaieteur News staffers on Monday. The incident occurred on the Houston, East Bank Demerara (EBD) public road sometime around 16:45hrsThe staffers, Royden Rockliffe, 30, and Clinton Layne, 23, were at the time on work detail which saw them travelling on a motorcycle along the western carriageway of the public road.

Rockliffe, the rider, said that he felt an impact from behind which caused him to lose control of the bike which, as a result, fell to the road.Both Rockliffe and his p i l l i o n r i d e r, L a y n e , received injuries and

The tinted black Nissan Tida. lacerations to the body.

However, instead of stopping to assist the men, the driver sped off, heading presumably to Georgetown.

Nevertheless, the men were assisted by persons nearby who witnessed the accident.Eyewitnesses detailed that the car was

speeding and appeared as if the driver was trying to “beat traffic”. They explained too that the driver appeared as if he was hurrying to follow a police van which was on the road at the time.The matter has been reported to ranks at the Ruimveldt Police Station.

The Eugene F. Correia International Airport (EFCIA) is set and fully equipped to carry out sampling for the PCR test for the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and this will be done for passengers arriving at the Airport today.

This is being done in collaboration with Eureka M e d i c a l L a b o r a t o r y, according to a press release issued by EFCIA yesterday.

It was revealed that strict measures and arrangements were set and reviewed yesterday during an onsite meeting at the airport’s international terminal with officials of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Ministry of Health, Eureka Medical Laboratory and the Chairman and Management of the airport.

Participating in that meeting was Mr. Michael O. Correia (Jnr), Chairman of the Board, Ogle Airport Inc. (OAI); Col. (Ret’d) Anthony Mekdeci, Chief Executive Officer and Project Coordinator, OAI; Mr. Abraham Doris, Director of Aviation Safety and Security

From L-R: Kit Nascimento, Andrew Boyle, Michael Correia, Dr. Karen Gordon-Boyle.

Mr. Anthony Mekdeci is seated at the front. (ag), GCAA; Dr. Karen Gordon-Boyle, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Ministry of Health; Mr. Andrew Boyle, Chief Executive Officer, Eureka Medical Laboratory and Mr. Kit Nascimento, Public Communications Consultant, OAI. The panel reviewed the

set COVID-19 protocols and regulations established by the Ministry of Health.

Additionally, a review of the protocols governing the commercial operations of the airport was conducted to ensure that the required arrangements and facilities are in compliance with these regulations.

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 13

Surinamese Ministers for three-day Guyana visit from today

W

ith the aim of continuing consultations on various sectors agreed upon by President Irfaan Ali and Surinamese President, Chandrikapersad Santokhi, three Surinamese Ministers are expected to make an official visit to Guyana from today. The visit will span the period October 14 -16, 2020.

Leading the team is Surinamese Foreign Affairs Minister, Albert Ramdin, who will be accompanied by the Minister of Public Works, Riad Nurmohamed; the Minister of Public Health, Amar Ramadhin, along with other government officials.

These officials are set to meet with Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Hugh Todd, to continue engagements on strengthening the bilateral ties of the two CARICOM countries.

Discussions will also focus on preparation for the launch of a Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform (SDCP), a statement from Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry said.

In August, one day after President Ali was inaugurated he met with President Santokhi and had

agreed to establish a working committee aimed at strengthening the bilateral ties of the two countries.

Formed at the policy and technical level and buttressed by the private sector of Guyana and Suriname, this working committee will seek to lay the framework that will improve multiple sectors such as health, infrastructure, education, agriculture, Information and C o m p u t e r Te c h n o l o g y (ICT) and security.

T a k i n g i n t o consideration that both countries are oil producers, specific attention was given to the natural resources. It is against this achievement that President Ali had committed to a joint-engagement that will improve Local Content through the training of the citizens, so that they are prepared to reap the benefits from the lucrative petroleum industry.

President Ali had highlighted that by setting out this new agenda it will ensure that the governments strategically position themselves to not only benefit, but to ensure that the people benefit from a transparent manner.

Surinamese Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation, Albert Ramdin

Surinamese Minister of Public Works, Riad Nurmohamed “We also recognize,” President Ali said, “that we need to set out an agenda that is proactive with deadlines; an agenda with greater involvement with stakeholders in the society of both countries—especially the private sector.”

Against this, Ali noted that both of the governments have also discussed ways in which the private sector of Suriname and Guyana will collaborate and be part of this “transformational landscape that can bring tremendous benefits” to the countries.

Todd, the local Foreign Affairs Minister, had said that the working committee was expected to move

Surinamese Minister of Public Health, Amar Ramadhin aggressively at which point it will convene its first policy level meeting in October.

Formal diplomatic relations between the Cooperative Republic of

Guyana and the Republic of Suriname were established on November 25, 1975.

PAGE 14

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Qatar pledges oil and gas, other support as part of strengthened ties with Guyana Qatar has pledged support to several sectors as part of strengthened diplomatic relations with Guyana. In a number of areas, including energy, oil and gas, services and infrastructure, the middleeastern country is prepared to give support. In a Government release, it was revealed that this support was pledged to President Irfaan Ali during a telephone conversation yesterday with the Emir of Qatar, His Royal Highness, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

According to the release

the two “discussed several areas of collaboration and cooperation” which will “include support for the Agriculture Sector through investments in the Halaal industry, expansion of the housing programme, the strengthening of diplomatic ties between the two countries and support in other critical sectors.”

Notably, the two leaders discussed the fight against the Coronavirus pandemic.

To this end, His Royal Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani committed (Continued on page 15)

His Royal Highness, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 15

Two accused in Robb Street arson/murder freed on no-case submission

Murdered: Theresa Rozario

T

he two persons accused of arson and murder in relation to the Robb Street fire, which claimed the lives o f 6 3 - y e a r- o l d H i l r o d Randolph Thomas and his two daughters, have been freed on a no-case submission.

The no-case submission was upheld by Justice Brassingston Reynolds at the High Court in Georgetown yesterday during a virtual hearing of the trial.

Avishkar Bissoon, 25, and his 75-year-old employer, Ganga Kishna, were jointly charged with three counts of murder for killing Thomas and his two daughters, 14-year-old Theresa Rozario and 11year-old Clarissa Rozario, on November 17, 2014, after setting their house on fire.

The two, who joined the proceeding from the Lusignan prison via zoom, were initially scheduled for trial earlier this year. Their hearings were cancelled in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The trial of the two men accused of arson/murder recommenced following the opening of the October session of the Demerara Criminal Assizes, last week. Lawyers for the accused, Dexter Todd and Latchmie Rahamat contended early on, that there was no case to answer since the prosecution was not able to satisfy the elements of the offences of neither murder nor arson. In upholding this position, Justice Reynolds

Murdered: Clarissa Rozario agreed that the evidence led by the prosecution was not sufficient to support the charges brought against the two accused. As a consequence, the judge directed the jury to formally return a verdict of not guilty, acquitting the former accused of the crimes.

At the commencement of the trial, State Counsel, Sarah Martin, who appeared in association with attorney, Shawnette Austin, called some five witnesses, including the victims’ sister and mother to the stand.

According to the facts presented by the prosecution, at the time of the incident, the two sisters were asleep when the Lot 65 Robb Street, Georgetown building they occupied with their father, was allegedly set on fire. The girls were trapped in the inferno and were burnt to death while their father jumped through a window to escape the flames.

The man sustained second and third degree burns and later succumbed on December 21, 2014 while receiving medical attention at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Following the tragic incident, Zamara Rozario, another daughter of Thomas, raised the suspicion of arson.

She claimed that in 2009 there was a similar incident which involved persons throwing fireballs at the building. She said a fire had started, but it was quickly extinguished resulting in (Continued on page 31)

Qatar pledges oil and...

From page 14 to providing Guyana with much-needed equipment including portable military hospitals and ventilators, which will significantly bolster Guyana’s capabilities in fighting the pandemic.

Both President Ali and His Royal Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani committed to mobilising technical teams from both countries, immediately following the discussions.

The teams will include the Foreign Ministers of both

countries as well as the Energy Minister from Qatar a n d G u y a n a ’s N a t u r a l Resources Minister and Agriculture Minister.

Following the engagement, the teams will also proceed to design programmes and projects to access resources from the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD).

The two Heads of State committed to visiting each other to further discuss the partnership between the two countries.

Murdered: Randolph Thomas

Freed: Ganga Kishna

Freed: Avishkar Bissoon

PAGE 16

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 17

PAGE 18

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

As Guyana pursues sustainable development agenda…

Agri. Minister-led delegation to virtually attend FAO’s regional conference next week The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations will be hosting its biennial Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean (LARC) next week. The event, which will span the period October 19 – 21, 2020 from 09:00hrs – 14:30hrs, will for the first time be held virtually.

According to a press release issued yesterday, the Regional Conference is notably the most important decision-making body for FAO’s 33 Member States in Latin America and the Caribbean. During the meetings, the delegation headed by the Minister of Agriculture for each country, deliberates on and guides FAO’s work for the next two years.

This year, recently appointed Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, will head a delegation comprising of senior members of his Ministry.

“COVID-19 and the ongoing impact of Climate Change provide an urgent context for the priority areas that are on the agenda for deliberation. With up to 22 million persons expected to be in a condition of hunger by 2030, tackling the various dimensions of food insecurity is critical to ensuring that FAO can support the countries of the region in achieving sustainable development,” the release stated.

Moreover, the key discussion areas, the release added, are also of importance to Guyana, as it pursues its sustainable development agenda and continues to evolve its position in the Region.

Among the key areas of discussion will be: Transforming food systems for healthy diets for all in the Region. The Caribbean is facing a rapid nutritional transition, with a significant

decrease in hunger rates, but also with a significant increase in overweight and obesity. This is largely explained by the adoption of inadequate food consumption patterns and a change in lifestyle, with a higher percentage of the population living in urban areas, with sedentary habits and less time dedicated to practicing healthy diets.

Today, food systems need to be transformed in order to enable future generations to feed themselves in a healthy and sustainable way. This constitutes an opportunity to introduce new forms of sustainable production and technological and policy innovations.

Another topic up for discussion is: ‘Hand-inHand’ towards prosperous and inclusive rural societies.

Rural-urban territories have enormous potential based on their population, Gross Domestic Products (GDP),

employment generation, food production, market supply and access to natural resources. Despite this, half of the rural inhabitants of the Region live in poverty and 20.4 percent in extreme poverty. Considering that 78 percent of the 169 targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) depend exclusively or mainly on actions undertaken in rural areas. Therefore, promoting prosperous and inclusive rural territories is essential.

To remain economically viable, socially acceptable and environmentally sustainable, rural-urban territories must be transformed. The ‘Hand-inHand’ Initiative is an FAO approach that seeks to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs, especially SDGs one and two, focusing efforts and supporting countries to implement efficient and effective actions in the fight against hunger and extreme

rural poverty, through cooperation between different actors. Focusing on the poorest and most vulnerable areas in each country, the conference, it is hoped, will discuss ways to increase levels of p r o d u c t i v i t y , competitiveness and innovation which can give new impetus to rural development, strengthening investments and capitalizing on the opportunities offered by the drivers of change in rural areas. In this regard, FAO will continue to support agriculture in Guyana and a broad range of rural activities to take advantage of these opportunities.

Also high on the agenda will be: Sustainable and climate resilient agriculture in a context of climate change and accelerated deterioration of natural resources. Currently, Latin America and the Caribbean Region face the challenge of

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha transforming its agriculture and food systems towards more sustainable and resilient production. Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are particularly vulnerable to climate change and deserve special support from the FAO. Agriculture must be able to facilitate the increase in production based on technological and institutional innovations that promote the efficient use of natural resources and the conservation of biodiversity while helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change, the Continued on page 23

Wednesday October 14, 2020

PAGE 23

Kaieteur News

Banks DIH employee charged for Bakewell truck driver’s death A Banks DIH salesman was on Tuesday charged for causing the death of a Bakewell truck driver by dangerous driving.

The defendant, Morguen Forde, 32, of Cummings Park, Georgetown, was arraigned in the Blairmont Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Peter

SARA disbanded From page 20 gobble up close to G$1 Billion in public funds in salaries, wages, rent and operational expenses.

As such, Nandlall stressed that the Government is making good on its promise to disband the agency and instead strengthen asset recovery components of the AMLCFT legislation.

According to him, the Government will endeavour to enact legislation utilizing the CARICOM model of State Asset Recovery, in respect of state assets acquired illegally in consonance with our laws and the Constitution.

Hugh.

He was not required to plea to the indictable offence which stated that on September 25, 2020, at Trafalgar Public Road, West Coast Berbice, he drove a motor lorry in a manner dangerous to the public thereby causing the death of Ravindra Arjune, 38, a Bakewell truck driver of Section ‘D’ Non Pareil, East Coast Demerara.

Forde was granted

$200,000, bail and the matter, which has been transferred to Fort Wellington Magistrate’s Court, was adjourned to November 4, 2020.

Arjune succumbed on October 2, 2020, at the Georgetown Public Hospital while receiving treatment for his injuries.

According to reports, on the day in question, about 09:15hrs, there was an accident involving a motor car and two motor lorries.

Agri. Minister-led delegation...

From page 18 release added.

It went on to note that Innovation and Digital Agriculture will be another issue to be discussed. The global food system, according to the release, continues to face considerable challenges in being able to provide enough food of adequate quality to feed an ever-growing population. The world is also changing at a fast pace with the emergence of an array of technologies. “Digital technologies and other forms of innovation offer unique opportunities for improving food systems and rural societies.

This can provide improvement opportunities for Guyana in the areas of; (a) food, nutrition and health; (b) climate resilience; (c) agro ecosystems and landscape management; (d) productivity of farm and non-farm employment; (e) inclusive financial services and agriculture insurance,” the release stated.

The defendant was proceeding east along the northern lane at a fast rate, while the motor car which was being driven by a 43-year-old seaman of Edinburg, East Bank Berbice, was proceeding in the opposite direction in front of the Bakewell motor lorry which was being driven by the deceased.

According to Forde, whilst he was proceeding an unknown motor lorry suddenly stopped in front of him causing him to apply brakes and pulled left (north) then changed back to right (south) and collided into the rear of the motor car causing it to spin and face east. It then collided into the right side

front portion of the Bakewell motor lorry.

As a result of the collision, the driver of the Bakewell motor lorry was pinned and subsequently taken out of the vehicle with the help from public spirited persons and rushed to the Fort Wellington Public Hospital in an unconscious state.

Arjune, with injuries about his body, was seen and examined by the doctor on duty but was subsequently taken to GPHC where he received treatment.

A breathalyzer test was conducted on the drivers and it all came back negative, an investigation was launched and the driver of the Banks

Dead: Ravindra Arjune DIH truck was subsequently arrested and charged.

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 25

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 27

PAGE 28

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News WANTED Technical Services 18-23 Industrial Site, Eccles 1.Mechanic, 2.Fitter/ Machinist, 3.Welder Fabricator, 3 years experience, Apply in person.

VACANCY

SERVICES First aid / cpr/ aed and home nursing courses st. John Association Tel# 225-9082 to register.

Office Assistant 5 Subjects cxc, 2 years min experience, Lot 8 sheriff street mimadecor12@gmail.com, 227-0176/ 86

Security Guard - ideal age between 30 - 50. Contact 2235273/74.

Either a one bedroom or two bedroom apartment in residential area unfurnished. Call 227-0885/ 657-4431. During working hours.

1- Captain to ply from Bartica Maid to cook and clean for - Georgetown contact #603For Doctoring fits, problems. East Bank area call 615-9132. 1402, Truck driver Contact# 650-0402/ 603-1402 Asthma, Burns or stroke, Clean your whole body by Urgently needed internation"Urinary Tract & General ally experienced Human Re- Driver Tel# 623-5255 (Becleaner medicines" Bush source Manager.Please con- tween Hours 9am - 4pm) tact Aulicio Mining Inc. at One able bodied male Doc Tel#633-3353,231-9020. careers@auliciomining.com clerk.Call:#225-2313,226-1497 Required two Senior Managers with international man- One able bodied male agement experience.Contact clerk.Call:#231-2029,616-5954 Aulicio Mining Inc. One clerk for Eccles office careers@auliciomining.com English & Mathematics, Urgently required six interna- grade 1 or 2 Email application FOR SALE tionally experienced compli- to techserigy@yahoo.com New Pulp egg trays for ance and procedure reviewal Sale.Tel:#688-4264 managers.Contact Aulicio Mining Inc. at House lots @ Blankenburg careers@aulicomining.com W.C.D & Schoonord W.B.D Available @ Schoonord 3/4 Experienced Senior Managers bedroom houses for sale with international managecontact# 650-0402/ 603-1402 ment experience with 19 Seater pit bull bus super computers.Contact Aulicio FOR RENT Inc.at custom seats excellent condi- Mining Store available for rent @ tion $3.1M. No Reasonable careers@auliciomining.com Bartica Contact #603-1402 / offer refused Tel#640-0624.

Experienced washplant tech650-0402 nicians with experience working with non-chemical washplants.Apply to Aulicio 2 and 3 Bedroom fully furMining Inc. nished luxury apartments to rent.Long and Short term. careers@auliciomining.com Tel:#682-2585 Four Personal Assistants for Apartment for rent in Peter's a n international experience Hall Tel#698-5800/ 648-1391 assisting management level staff.Contact Aulicio Mining 1 Commercial building 3 LEARN TO DRIVE I n c . Story prime location $1.25 US N.Outar Driving School, careers@auliciomining.com per square foot Contact: 618Learn to Drive the right way @ Cuffy Square.Affordable Immediate Vacancy exists for 3026 Package.Call#644-5166/691- one Canter/Lorry Driver to Residential house in Eccles 2561/681-2808. work at Del Ice Co. Call 231- furnished 4 bedroom, 3 toilet 1408/ 642-9181. & bath, 2 kitchen. $2000 US Contact: Tel#618-3026 Dynamic Individual with cxc Maths/ English Sales Stock- Furnish apt one bedroom,two ing Experience Apply bedroom, three bedroom, KeyFood Mc Doom Village. providence and diamond GR TAXI. CALL: Tel#672-1906, 682-6238, 216Experience Accounts clerk 24 HRS 2299 apply at Alabama Trading 65 Robb street Bourda.

Barber Chairs at Park View 219-5000 227-2100 Barber shop 141 142 Stabroek Experience Sales Girl Apply at 225-7878 227- 1982 Alabama Trading 65 Robb market Contact #670-3422, 690-0888, 683-1080.

Street Bourda.

TO LET Ware House to Rent L.B.I, One Female Cleaner Apply at East Coast Demerara Tel# 624Appartment in Eccles Rooms Alabama Trading 65 Robb 4633.

Street Bourda. in Albertown Tel#225-3234

Chinese supermarket robbed; one shot

From page 22 demanding cash. Nevertheless, prompt response by police, backed up by heavily

the building. They returned immediately with back up and surrounded the supermarket.The roads were blocked on both ends leading to the

armed guards, almost foiled their plans.Kaieteur News was told that the men managed to escaped

building. Other police road blocks were set up along the ECD public road as well. There was a brief standoff and tear gas was thrown into the

before the cops arrived but not before stealing some cash and ripping out a few security cameras along with its DVR.Sources said that when police arrived, they were told of a grey Toyota Allion motorcar which sped off from in front of the building in the direction of Berbice.The police gave chase but then

received another 911 distress call informing

them that one of the gunmen was trapped in

supermarket with an attempt to flush out the bandit. The building was then cleared but no one was found. Police later notified media operatives that one of the victims was shot in the leg during the course of the robbery.Residents of Melanie said

that this has been the third attack by bandits on the supermarket in recent times.

PAGE 29

PAGE 30

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Case management conference for Election Petition set for October 22

A case management hearing in relation to the Elections Petitions challenging the validity of the March 2 general and regional elections has been set for Thursday, October 22, 2020.

The APNU+AFC Coalition revealed in a statement that the party was advised that its attorneys are in receipt of official correspondence from the Chief Justice (Ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire informing that the session will be conducted before her, virtually.At the interim, the APNU+AFC noted that it is deeply concerned by what appeared to be some sloth in the hearing of the Elections Petitions and is pleased that the date for the case management has been set.

“Thanks, to our attorneys for their unrelenting activism in ensuring that the case management has been scheduled on the named date. The Coalition looks forward to the early hearing of the Elections Petitions which we are confident will expose the massive fraud perpetrated on the people of Guyana by the illegitimate PPP regime,” the coalition said in its statement.

The Election Petitions drafted by Attorneys -at-law, Roysdale A. Forde S.C; John Jeremie, S.C; Raphael Trotman and Olayne Joseph last September, states that the two applicants are challenging the results as declared by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and published in the official gazette

PAGE 31

Kaieteur News

Pedal cyclist who struck down by GDF officer dies Joseph Richards, 71, a pedal cyclist who was struck down on October 3 last by an officer attached to the Guyana De fence Force

(GDF), died yesterday at the Georgetown Public Hos-

Chief Justice (Ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire on August 20, 2020.

Those results show the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) as having 233,336 votes and the APNU+AFC securing 217,920 votes. The results which put the PPP/C in the lead were garnered from a CARICOM supervised elections recount process that the APNU+AFC had condemned as lacking credibility. For these reasons, the applicants claim that the elections were unlawfully conducted and the results were affected.As a basis of their contentions, the applicants in their supporting document outlined the series of events which led up to the recount declaration. They highlighted, inter alia, the previous declaration made by District Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo, which showed a overwhelming lead for the APNU+AFC in the largest voting population but was challenged in Court subsequently quashed by Chief Justice (ag), Roxane GeorgeWiltshire.

pital Corporation (GPHC).

The pensioner, who according to police never regained consciousness from the accident, took his last breath around 04:00hrs.

Richards was reportedly heading home when the GDF rank’s motor car collided with his bicycle along Mandela Avenue, Georgetown.

He was picked up by the same officer and taken to GPHC.Doctors there told

police that Richards had sustained severe head injuries

Dead: Joseph Richards.

which resulted in him falling into a coma.

The GDF officer told investigators that while he was approaching the intersection

An evening’s drinking session turned into a nightmare for three truck drivers yesterday, after one of them reversed his truck and crushed his drinking buddy to death. He then fled the scene.

The mishap reportedly occurred about 21:15hrs on the Five Miles Public Road, Bartica, Region Seven.

Dead is Deonarine Singh, 31, of Canal Number One, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

According to a police report, the truck drivers had parked their respective motor lorries on the road and headed

to a house to imbibe.

A few hours later they finished their drinks and decided to re-enter their trucks and leave.

However, Singh’s motor lorry was stuck in the sand and one of the truck drivers offered to assist him. The man with the use of his truck and a rope managed to pull Singh’s lorry out of the sand.

Investigators reported that Singh then exited and walked towards the front of it, presumably to untie the

Senegal loses billions of dollars after awarding gas blocks to company with zero experience, assets or wherewithal

the boys’ grip and ran into a man’s house located in the same yard.

The man was startled by the commotion and rushed out from one of his rooms to investigate and saw Park lying on his kitchen floor bleeding.

His attackers attempted to enter the man’s house as well to continue their brutal assault.However, the man fought them off and in the process received a stab to one of his wrist. The suspects

ducted a breathalyzer on the officer but found no trace of alcohol in his body.

Nevertheless, investigations are still ongoing.

Truck driver flees after crushing drinking buddy to death

Teen dies after beaten and stabbed by youths A sixteen-year old boy collapsed yesterday on the kitchen floor of a stranger’s house after he was brutally beaten and stabbed by three other teenagers.

Jumal Park called ‘Cherio’ of Nonpareil Street, Albouystown was slain just after 10:00hrs yesterday at Front Road, West Ruimveldt.

Police in a report said that at the time of the attack Park was washing a car at a wash bay where he worked.

Three boys, ages 17, 18 and 19 respectively, armed with pieces of wood and a knife approached Park and called him out to fight. Upon seeing the trio, Park turned and run into a nearby yard but they caught him.

The 19-year old suspect reportedly stabbed Park twice - once to his chest and his arm - while other suspects dealt him multiple blows with the wood about his body.According to investigators, Park somehow managed to free himself from

at Arapaima Street and Mandela Avenue, Richards rode across the road into his path.

Investigators also con-

then fled and the man picked up Park and rushed him to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival.It was observed by medical personnel that Park received a stab wound to the left side of his chest in the region of his heart and another to his upper right arm.Police has since managed to apprehend one of the suspects while the others are still on the run.

Two accused in Robb Street ...

From page 15 only a section of the building being burnt. The building was occupied by Thomas and several operators of small businesses at the time.

Police had subsequently reported that the evidence pointed to the building being torched to drive out individuals who were also claiming ownership of the property by prescriptive rights. It took detectives, mainly those stationed at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown two years to crack this case.

The cops arrested Bissoon and his employer Krishna who claimed to own the property after a drug addict reportedly confessed that he was offered money to set fire to the disputed building.

Dead: Deonarine Singh rope.

At this said moment, the man reversed and collided with Singh’s truck crushing him in the process.

Realizing that Singh was pinned between the trucks, the man drove forward and

Singh fell on to the road unconscious.

Upon seeing this, according to police, the man reportedly panicked and fled the scene.The other truck driver, identified as Ramlakhan Bishundal, remained, and with assistance from persons passing by, picked up Singh and placed him into a vehicle which took him to the Bartica Regional Hospital. Doctors there pronounced him dead on arrival.

Bishundal, however, was taken into police custody and is currently assisting with investigations.

PAGE 32

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 33

PAGE 34

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 35

PAGE 36

Kaieteur News

...Women’s Football - The Malawian sisters From page 39 and their star strikers. And it was Temwa who struck first, lobbing the keeper to put Wuhan ahead on 27 minutes.

That set the tone, and while Tabitha responded soon after by earning a penalty for Jiangsu, she could only look on as a team-mate shot wide from the spot.

Wuhan never looked back. Two more strikes, plus an own goal in the second half, took them to an impressive 4-0 win and secured the club’s maiden Women’s Super League title.

“Our team put in a brilliant performance,” a jubilant Temwa told FIFA.com after the celebrations had subsided. “I may have scored the opening goal but I owe thanks to my team-mates. I

wouldn’t have played so well had it not been for their strong support.””Our rivals also played well, and my sister demonstrated her talent,” she added. “She has been my role model.”

Sibling support: Tabitha’s influence is certainly clear in the way Temwa has followed in her footsteps. The sisters, two of the family’s five daughters, inherited their passion for football from their father.

As children they played football with local boys and Tabitha was the first to make steps towards a professional career when she signed for Lilongwe side DD Sunshine at the age of 13. But she didn’t leave her sister behind, and it was on her recommendation that the club signed Temwa in 2013.

“I did this not because she is my sister, but because I know her potential” Tabitha told FIFA.com. “I wanted Temwa to try her luck with a big club where she could improve, both mentally and technically.”

Tabitha again led the way when she moved to Sweden to join third-tier Krokom/ Dvarsatts IF in 2014, becoming the first Malawian female to play for a European club in the process. A move to second-division side Kvarnsvedens IK followed the year after and she scored 43 times in her first season as her team went up to the top flight as champions.

Such feats helped earn her a move to China in 2017, and with her Swedish club manager desperately seeking a

Wednesday October 14, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) If you were offered the opportunity to take a trip around the world, where you would see wonderful palaces and experience a timeless love affair, would you take it?

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Today might be a bit difficult, because you aren't likely to be as productive as usual. You won't have much to say, and you'll feel sleepy and somewhat grumpy.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You certainly are in a strange mood today True, things have been going smoothly for the past few days, but be careful not to fool yourself.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) It will be as though you're in a new, hopeful world today. The people you meet will be cordial and caring, and the future will seem like a bright, attractive place to live.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) The day ahead should be excellent. You've been searching for meaning behind recent events. No doubt there have been a lot of changes both at work and at home.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You'll probably be perfectly in tune with the day ahead. Of course, there are days when it's tempting to run away from the reality of the moment and its hardships.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Don't even try to understand what's happening today, Sagittarius, because you won't be able to fathom it.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) This kind of strange day doesn't occur often. You no longer seem to know what you want. Work or time off?

Redecorate your house or live in a beach shack?

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Because your tendency recently has been to brood over everything, Leo, a day like this can't be anything but beneficial. It has been difficult for you to find material satisfaction of late

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Do countries abroad represent real opportunities for you, Aquarius? This is a question that you'll soon have to answer. The grass may be greener on the other side of the world, but have you considered the possibility that it isn't?

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) There are days when you feel wonderful without being able to attribute the feeling to any real event. Of course, your rational mind will search for a reason for the happiness.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today won't be like most other days, Pisces. Look around and you'll see that people either have their heads in the clouds, are depressed, or seem to be trying to keep up a good front.

high-calibre replacement, Tabitha knew just who to recommend. “I knew Temwa was capable of playing for a big club. And we are similar in many ways, in terms of our character and technique,” she said.

Temwa’s career duly took off with Kvarnsvedens. She scored an incredible 55 goals in just 57 appearances across two seasons before, once again, following in her sister’s footsteps by moving to China.

“I am a young player and I wanted make further progress in a strong Asian league,” Temwa explained.

“That was why I moved to China.”

Dreaming big with Malawi: The emergence of the Chawinga sisters has also raised hopes of a bright future for Malawi, who have thus far made little impression on the international scene.

Their potential at that level was underlined in the 2020 CAF Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament, when Tabitha and Temwa scored ten times between them over two legs to helping Malawi to an 14-1 aggregate victory over Mozambique.

“We had a good campaign in the first round. Although we failed to progress (losing to Kenya in the second round), we made a breakthrough,” said Temwa.

Tabitha, as the national team’s captain, also accentuated the positive. “It was our first time to participate in Olympic qualifying and the tournament gave us precious international experience,” she said.

“Malawi have never qualified for the Women’s World Cup but that competition means a lot for us. It represents our hopes and, if all of us keep working hard, we can reach the level needed and realise our dreams.”

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal and Juventus forward tests positive for coronavirus

Ronaldo posted a selfie with the Portugal squad on social media on Monday night.

BBCsport - Portugal and Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo has tested positive for coronavirus, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has announced. The 35-year-old is “doing well, without symptoms, and in isolation”, the FPF said in a statement.

Portugal face Sweden in a Nations League group game on Wednesday (today). The remainder of Fernando Santos’ Portugal squad have tested negative for Covid-19 and are available for selection.

Portugal played out a 0-0 draw with France in Paris on Sunday and are top of the group, level on points with the world champions. The

Portugal captain became the first European to score 100 international goals in men’s football when his side beat Sweden in the reverse Nations League fixture in September.

As a result of his period of quarantine, Ronaldo is also set to miss Juventus’ Serie A fixture at Crotone on 17 October and his side’s opening Champions League group game against Dynamo Kiev on 20 October.

The Italian champions then face Verona on 25 October. Ronaldo posted a selfie with the Portugal squad on social media on Monday night with the caption “United on and off the field!”

Wednesday October 14, 2020

PAGE 37

Kaieteur News

Eight days off from Wasteful Spain fall to first defeat in nearly two years release, Nasir Jamshed - Nations League faces prospect of deportation to Pakistan ESPNcricinfo - In normal circumstances, Nasir Jamshed might be looking forward to his release from jail in the coming days, but it looks like things will become even more complicated for him.

Jamshed, the former Pakistan batsman, was sentenced to 17 months in prison in February for his involvement in spot-fixing plans involving BPL and PSL matches. He was also banned from cricket for ten years by an anti-corruption tribunal. He is due for release on October 21.

But, despite having a wife and daughter in Birmingham, he now faces the prospect of deportation back to Pakistan. Before the trial, Jamshed was in the UK on a spousal visa - his wife, Samara Afzal, was born in England - which was due for renewal in February 2019. But, with a court date impending, it was decided to put off a renewal decision until the case was decided.

He has now received a notification of intention to deport and been told he would be further detained.

He is appealing the decision and will apply for bail on October 21. Key to the outcome may be J a m s h e d ’s d e c i s i o n t o initially plead not guilty to

the corruption charges.

Those close to him claim this was because neither he nor his barrister were aware of the contents of a recording of a conversation between Jamshed, his accomplices, and an undercover police officer, which effectively condemned him. Once the recording was played in court, Jamshed changed his plea to guilty.

By then, though, the trial had gone into a sixth day. As a consequence, there was little leniency applied in sentencing.

Legal experts believe that, had Jamshed made a guilty plea in the first instance, he could have expected a sentence of under 12 months.

And, with UK law stating that any noncitizen who receives a prison sentence of more than 12 months is liable for deportation, the repercussions of that decision were significant.

ESPNcricinfo understands the lawyer involved has been referred to the Solicitors Regulation Authority and is currently under investigation.

Jamshed is likely to learn of his immediate fate next week. It remains possible he could be deported immediately and expected to fight the decision from Pakistan.

BBCsport - Spain were made to pay for a host of wasted chances as Ukraine inflicted their first defeat in nearly two years. Leeds forward Rodrigo spurned two headed chances as Ukraine goalkeeper Georgi Bushchan continually frustrated the former world champions in the stadium where they won Euro 2012.

Spain had 21 shots in total but Ukraine needed just one to score in Kiev.

Substitute Vi k t o r Tsygankov ran on to West Ham forward Andriy Yarmolenko’s pass to beat David de Gea. The Manchester United goalkeeper was caught out of position on the counterattack as Luis Enrique’s side lost for the first time since Croatia beat them 3-2 in November 2018. They now lead Group A4 by just a point from both Ukraine and Germany, who drew 33 with Switzerland.

About 15,000 fans were

allowed in to watch the Nations League game, which was dominated by Spain. The visitors had 72% of possession and forced Bushchan into eight saves, but the Dynamo Kiev man was in unbeatable form.

‘Blaming De Gea is wrong’ - Spain manager Luis Enrique: “Blaming De Gea is already wrong, it puts a lot on him. If David is blamed for a game like this, turn it off a n d l e t ’s g o . “ T h e responsibility for each goal lies with the whole

team. “ We have made chances to kill them. It was a game of clear control of us, with Adama Traore we have generated chances with his overlap. “In the end we went into panic mode. I like the attitude of the players, I like what I see.”

In other results: Latvia 0 Malta 1, Azerbaijan 0 Cyprus 0, Faroe Islands 2 Andorra 0, Liechtenstein 0 San Marino 0, Montenegro 1 Luxembourg 2.

PAGE 38

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Cricket Regional - Pride collect winning trophy from legend Sir Garry Bridgetown, Barbados, CMC – Barbados Pride have finally gotten their hands on the Headley/Weekes Trophy for capturing this year’s Cricket West Indies first class tournament.

Legendary all-rounder Sir Garry Sobers, Barbados’ only living National Hero, presented the trophy to Pride captain Kraigg Brathwaite during a luncheon event hosted last weekend by the Barbados Cricket Association.

The tournament was halted after eight rounds following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the region and Pride were subsequently

declared winners after topping the standings with 134.8 points.

Despite not holding an unassailable lead, CWI directors unanimously agreed to award the title to Pride.

“Sir Everton was one of our biggest supporters and it was always great to see him at the matches when we played here at Kensington Oval,” Brathwaite said in reference to West Indies batting icon Sir Everton Weekes who passed away last July.

“He would always have a kind word of encouragement and as a team we want to dedicate this victory

to him. It is also really good that Sir Garry is here to join as we remember Sir Everton.

“The senior guys really led from the front, even if it was not by performance, there were all in and I really appreciated that as the leader of the team.”

The title capture was the 23rd for Barbados in the modern era of the championship – dating back to 1966 – and came after they won six of their eight matches in the recent campaign.

Significantly, the championship win broke Guyana Jaguars’ stranglehold of five titles on the trot

since the start of the professional structure.

BCA president, Conde Riley, said there had been a marked development of Barbados’ cricket over the last eight years.

“This title follows on from us winning in 2013, when we were captained by Kirk Edwards, and coming second for five consecutive years to the Guyana Jaguars,” said Riley, also a CWI director.

“We have so many players in the West Indies team that we are never at full strength, but what has happened is that it has given a number of young players an

opportunity and we have a strong, strong bench of young players.

“The character that his side has shown to come second on five occasions and now to win this trophy has been fantastic.

The character this group of players has shown over the last eight years has impressed me.”

Pride’s successful campaign was underpinned by left-hander Kyle Mayers who gathered 654 runs at an average of 50 and fast bowler Chemar Holder who picked up 36 wickets at nearly 19 runs apiece.

Wednesday October 14, 2020

PAGE 39

Kaieteur News

NHFS to honour reigning CBC Men’s Champions A press release from Nigel Hinds Financial Services (NHFS) has indicated that a celebration event in appreciation and recognition of the 2018 Guyana Men’s team which won the nation’s first Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) championship will be hosted by the entity on Sunday, November 15, 2020 at a venue that is yet to be determined.

NHFS is owned and operated by Nigel Hinds who served as President of the

Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) and played in major role in helping the team to be able to participate in the CBC 2018 championships, in addition to serving as Team Manager in the tournament.

Recipients of prizes will include the players and support staff of the history making Guyanese team that prevailed against all odds to win the tournament, contested at the Anthony Nesty Sporthal in Paramaribo,

Suriname two years ago.

The release stated that overseas based players will participate via Zoom Video Communications and awards will also be made to outstanding former national players, basketball administrators and supporting staff.

The championship winning team will not get to defend their title until at least 2021 since the 2020 event was postponed due to the pandemic.

The 2018

champion team that hoisted the John Yates trophy comprised of Stanton Rose (Captain), Harold Adams, Shaine Webster, Denzil Devonish, Kevon Wiggins, Timothy Thompson, Orland Glasgow, Anthony Moe, Ray Victor, Travis Belgrave , Felix Hamilton and Travis Burnet.

However, Hamilton didn’t receive any medal since he left the team in the early stages

of the tournament due to insubordination towards Head Coach, Junior Hercules.

PAGE 40

Kaieteur News

Wednesday October 14, 2020

...Giro d’Italia: Mitchelton-Scott & From page 38 ever colder Italian Alps await an unpredictable conclusion - if the race gets there at all.

Stage 10 result: 1. Peter Sagan (Svk/ Bora-Hansgrohe) 4hrs 1min 56secs 2.

Brandon McNulty (US/UAE-Team Emirates) +19secs 3. Joao Almeida (Por/DeceuninckQuick-Step) +23secs 4. Ben Swift (GB/Ineos Grenadiers) same time 5. Jai Hindley (Aus/

Sunweb).

General classification: 1. Joao Almeida (Por/Deceuninck-Quick-Step) 39hrs 38mins 5secs 2. Wilco Kelderman (Ned/Sunweb) +34secs 3. Pello Bilbao (Spa/BahrainMcLaren) +43secs 4. Domenico Pozzovivo (Ita/NTT Pro Cycling Team) +57secs 5. Vincenzo Nibali (Ita/Trek-Segafredo) +1min 1sec.

Wednesday October 14, 2020

PAGE 41

Kaieteur News

New-approach Chennai Super Kings strangle Sunrisers Hyderabad ESPNcricinfo - Sam Curran’s tone-setting 21-ball 31 at the top highlighted the Chennai Super Kings’ daring, new approach with the bat as they put up 167 for 6. After Curran completed the double duty - taking the prized scalp of David Warner in the powerplay - the Super Kings’ slower bowlers took over, smothering the Sunrisers Hyderabad in a passage of play that was straight out of Chepauk.

Kane Williamson manipulated the field with a 36-ball half-century and Rashid Khan gave the Super Kings a late scare with 14 off eight balls, but Shardul Thakur and Dwayne Bravo defended 26 off the last two overs, sealing the Super Kings’ third victory in eight games.

The result left the Super Kings in a three-way tie in the bottom half of the IPL points table with the Sunrisers and the Rajasthan Royals. With the Sunrisers requiring 46 off 18 balls, MS Dhoni turned to legspinner Karn Sharma over Thakur.

After Williamson went four and out, Khan and Shahbaz Nadeem scrambled three boundaries in four balls in a 19-run over. Thakur was thrust into the hot seat for the penultimate over, and after Khan carved a double, Thakur speared an off-side yorker past the tramline.

The next delivery was also a wide yorker and just as umpire Paul Reiffel was about to signal a wide, Dhoni protested. Reiffel ultimately deemed it a legal ball and at the end of a five-run over, Khan trod on his stumps and holed out off the same delivery. Bravo then closed out a 20-run win with his yorkers and slower dippers.

There were other heroes for the Super Kings as well.

Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu, who had struck centuries against the Sunrisers previously, countered Khan and Nadeem as both the spinners went wicketless, conceding 59 runs between them.

Dhoni unleashed a whipped six off T Natarajan, and Ravindra Jadeja cracked an unbeaten 25 off 10 balls before knocking over Jonny Bairstow with his arm ball. The Sunrisers were 59 for 3 in the tenth over when Bairstow was dismissed, leaving Williamson and the rest of the middle order with too much

to do against Super Kings’ seven-man attack.

CSK shake things up: Batting first for the first time this season, the Super Kings pushed Watson down to No. 3 to accommodate Curran at the top. Though Faf du Plessis nicked Sandeep Sharma behind for a golden duck, Curran tonked left-arm seamer Khaleel Ahmed for two fours and two sixes in the fourth over. In the next over, Sandeep switched to around the wicket and got one to hold its line to clean up Curran. The Super Kings progressed to 44 for 2 in six overs. Rayudu was dropped by Bairstow on 9 and Watson on 20 by Khan off his own bowling as the pair added 81 off 64 balls.

Both batsmen took on Khan in his last over, carting him for sixes. Watson was troubled by the left-arm angle and hard lengths of Nadeem, but Rayudu was more fluent against him, even hoisting him over his head for six.

Both set batsmen, however, fell in successive overs in identical fashion holing out off full-tosses.

Dhoni and Jadeja then provided the finishing kick, helping the Super Kings take 48 off their last four overs.

A spot of Chepauk in Dubai: Armed with a deep bowling attack, Dhoni used all four overs of Deepak Chahar upfront. He went wicketless, but he did find swing and accuracy even though Warner and Bairstow walked at him.

Warner was dismissed, by Curran, for the first time in the powerplay this season, and then the Super Kings’ spinners ran rings around the Sunrisers. They even gave Dhoni the luxury of having a slip in the middle overs.

By the time Jadeja bowled Bairstow, the Sunrisers were 60 for 3, needing 108 off 10 overs. Karn found sharp turn and teased Priyam Garg before making the incision.

However, Piyush Chawla, who had started the season as the Super Kings’ frontline spinner, was barely needed

by Tuesday. Imran Tahir, who was ferrying drinks, told the TV commentators that he was “licking his lips” looking at these tiring UAE tracks.

Williamson calmly manoeuvred the ball into the gaps and took the chase deep.

He was on 21 off 19 at one point, but raised the tempo, finishing with 57 off 39 balls.

Khan, who batted at No. 7 in

the absence of Abishek Sharma, who was left out for Nadeem, threatened a

comeback, but Thakur and Bravo saved the day for the Super Kings.

Chennai Super Kings 167 for 6 (Watson 42, Rayudu 41, Sandeep 2-19) beat

Sunrisers Hyderabad 147 for 8 (Williamson 57, Bravo 2-25, Karn 2-37) by 20 runs.

PAGE 42

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

Giro d’Italia: Mitchelton-Scott & Jumbo-Visma withdraw after positive Covid results BBCsport - The JumboVisma and Mitchelton-Scott teams have withdrawn from the Giro d’Italia after six positive results in the latest round of Covid-19 testing.

General classification contender Steven Kruijswijk, who rides for Jumbo, tested positive as did four staff members of the Australian Mitchelton-Scott team. Out of 571 tests, Team Sunweb’s Michael Matthews also tested positive.

M i t c h e l t o n - S c o t t ’s British rider Simon Yates, another pre-race favourite, tested positive before stage eight. “As a social responsibility we’ve made the decision to withdraw,” said Mitchelton-Scott boss Brent Copeland.

Kruijswijk, ruled out of last month’s Tour de France because of a shoulder injury, said: “Within the team we take

a lot of measures to avoid contamination. “And I just feel fit. I can’t believe I got it.

It is a very big disappointment to get this news. It is a pity that I have to leave the Giro this way.”

In a statement on their website, Team Sunweb said: “Michael is currently asymptomatic, feels healthy and is now in quarantine.” A staff member from Team AG2R-La Mondiale and Team Ineos Grenadiers also tested positive and are now isolating.

The latest rounds of tests were carried out on 11 and 12 October. In Tuesday’s (yesterday) 10th stage, threetime world road champion Peter Sagan won the undulating 177km run from Lanciano to Tortoreto on the Adriatic coast.

It was an eventful stage in which Slovakian Sagan

survived from the early breakaway and stayed out in front, fighting his way up steep climbs in heavy rain as well as negotiating slippery descents on new tarmac.

There were moves in the general classification contenders, where Domenico Pozzovivo of NTT and Jakob Fuglsang of Astana suffered punctures - the latter losing more than a minute.

Deceuninck-Quick Step’s Joao Almeida held on to the pink jersey, extending his lead to 34 seconds - with four bonus seconds for finishing third - over Wilco Kelderman of Sunweb. The Grand Tour race, originally scheduled for May, finishes on 25 October.

Analysis - The Giro d’Italia appears to be unravelling before our very eyes, to what could be a premature ending. There are nearly two weeks remaining of this delayed Grand Tour, but the first rest day of coronavirus testing proves

Australian Lucas Hamilton was the best placed Michelton-Scott rider, in 15th place.

Covid 19 is now in the race ‘bubble’.

Following a relatively successful Tour de France, in which no riders were directly affected, Giro organisers RCS introduced the same model: pre-race testing and further

tests on the two rest days.

They, and cycling’s governing body the UCI, must now consider at what point they would have to end the race early if more riders, or whole teams, pull out. The loss of Kruijswijk

blows the race further open, as he is the third of the favourites for victory to abandon after Simon Yates tested positive and Geraint Thomas of Ineos Grenadiers pulled out with an injury. The (Continued on page 36)

Wednesday October 14, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 43

Lorenzao Johnny Memorial School Bags Project launched by RHTYSC Cricket teams “

Education is the foundation for a successful future as it would open doors that normally remain close and would make sure life is worthwhile.

The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) strongly believes that every one of its members should have an educational foundation and we would assist you in this effort.

Sports and Education can go hand in hand once you are committed, focused and selfdriven. Education assists you to think on your feet and our own Jonathan Rampersaud has set an example that you can still play the game and emerge with eleven subjects including nine grade ones.”

Those were the inspiring words of RHTY&SC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster when he launched the Lorenzao Johnny Memorial

Lorenzao Johnny School Bags Project at the Area ‘H’ Ground last week.

Dozens of club members each received a school bag under the project while the club’s ten cricket teams would distribute bags to less fortunate students with educational materials as part of the club’s countywide Say No/Say Yes campaign.

Under this campaign, the cricket teams encourage youths to Say Yes to Education, Sports, Culture, Life, Religion and No to Drugs, Alcohol, Crime, Tobacco, and Suicide. The Club’s Assistant

Some RHTY&SC members pose with their school bags after the presentation.

Secretary/CEO Simon Naidu noted that businessman Ryan Tilak donated a large quantity of school bags in memory of the late Lorezao Johnny aka Sham. Johnny, a close friend of the club who was brutally murdered in Rose Hall Town by bandits while exercising near the St. Francis

Women’s Football - The Malawian sisters lighting up China FIFA - Sibling rivalry came to the fore when Wuhan Jianghan University competed against Jiangsu Suning in Sunday’s Chinese Women’s Super League title-decider. The players drawing most attention from media and fans alike were two Malawian sisters.

Tabitha Chawinga, at 24, is the elder of the two. She is Jiangsu’s top scorer with seven goals scored across the season. Having fired Jiangsu to the title and finished as the Chinese league’s Golden Boot winner and Player of the Year in 2019, Tabitha had her sights firmly fixed on a successful championship defence.

The younger sister, 22year-old Temwa, is an emerging star. She moved to China PR to join Wuhan at © Others

© Others the start of this year after a successful two-year spell in Sweden. Despite a lengthy lay-off due to the Covid-19 lockdown, Temwa showed that she’d lost none of her scoring knack when the

league kicked off in August, bagging eight goals to propel Wuhan to the top of the table.

The stage was therefore set for a showdown between two of China’s top sides – (Continued on page 32)

Community Developers compound.

Naidu hailed Johnny as one of the main reasons why the RHTY&SC is now considered Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation and as such the club was delighted to honor his memory by hosting this project.

He expressed gratitude to Tilak for his support and indicated that the programme would be an annual one.

Tilak praised the outstanding work of the RHTY&SC and stated that he was pleased to be associated with the programme in memory of his

late friend.

The ten cricket teams of the club are Poonai Pharmacy Under-12 and 13, Farfan and Mendes Under15, Bakewell Under-17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Metro Female, Namilco Thunderbolt Flour Under-21 and First Division.

Skipper Stanton Rose (left) and Vice Captain Anthony Moe pose with their CBC 2018 All-Star Five plaques.

rt Spo Chennai Super Kings moved up to sixth in the table with six points in eight games. Š BCCI/IPL

New-approach Chennai Super Kings strangle Sunrisers Hyderabad

Lorenzao Johnny Memorial School Bags Project launched

by RHTYSC Cricket teams Wasteful Spain fall to first defeat in nearly two years

NHFS to honour reigning CBC Men’s Champions

Cricket Regional Pride collect winning trophy from legend Sir Garry

Sir Garfield Sobers presents the championship trophy to skipper Kraigg Brathwaite in the presence of some of his Barbados Pride teammates. (CWI Photo)

Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.