Guyana Times -- Friday, March 18, 2022

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4952

THE BEACON OF TRUTH FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022

Sprinkling of "abeer", rubbing of "abrack" symbolically erase social, economic distinctions – Pres Ali Page 3

...reassures Govt’s interventions will surmount challenges caused by global events

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

"Soldier Man" gets 12-year prison sentence for mall owner’s P24 killing … “My life, my dreams, they were all shattered” – victim’s daughter

APA calls for more support for Warrau Venezuelan migrants P27 Customs officer granted bail P22 for shooting, injuring horse cart operators President Dr Irfaan Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo and Security Advisor to the President, Captain Gerry Gouveia with members of the Joint Services including Director of Prisons (ag) Nicklon Elliot; Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Godfrey Bess; Police Commissioner (ag) Nigel Hoppie; Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Clifton Hicken and other officials on Thursday evening during a Phagwah celebration at State House

High Court dismisses union’s bid to represent GGMC workers

Pedal cyclist killed by P22 drunken driver

See story on page 7

Lifesaving brain surgery gives cop new lease of life Ganja, uncustomed liquor, local and foreign currencies found during Police operation

Millers agree to increase paddy price to Essequibo rice farmers by $200/bag Page 27

Page 26

– businessman, relatives taken into custody

Page 21

East Canje murder accused remanded

P8

– Police arrest 2nd suspect

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FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, March 18 – 03:30h-05:00h and 13:00h-14:00h and Saturday, March 19 – 04:00h-05:30h.

Sprinkling of “abeer”, rubbing of “abrack” symbolically erase social, economic distinctions – Pres Ali

…reassures Govt’s interventions will surmount challenges caused by global events

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, March 18 – 16:35h-18:05h and Saturday, March 19 – 05:05h-06:35h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily

WEATHER TODAY

Light rain showers will prevail throughout the day, with partly cloudy skies expected at night.

Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North North-Easterly to East NorthEasterly between 2.23 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 17:03h reaching a maximum height of 2.80 metres.

Low Tide: 10:37h and 22:56h reaching minimum heights of 0.45 metre and 0.43 metre.

Government Ministers and members of the diplomatic community at State House on Thursday evening to join President Dr Irfaan Ali and First Lady Arya Ali in celebration of Phagwah

I

n extending Phagwah greetings to all Guyanese especially the Hindu community, President Dr Irfaan Ali said the celebrations during the joyous Festival of Colours serve as a distraction from the various differences that divide the country.

The Hindu festival of Phagwah is also called Holi or the Festival of Colours, and celebrates the arrival of Spring. It also signifies the triumph of good over evil.

In Guyana, it is viewed as a unifying festival as it brings together people from all walks of life who participate in smearing abrack (coloured powder) and sprinkling abeer (coloured or stained water) on each other.

In fact, to kick off today’s celebrations, President Ali and First Lady Arya Ali hosted a Holi Dinner at State House, which was attended by Government Ministers and officials, members of the diplomatic corps and other special invitees, who were serenaded by cultural music, including chowtal singing as well as entertaining performances.

“Phagwah reaffirms our common humanity. The zestful sprinkling of “abeer” and the liberal smearing of

“abrack” symbolically erase social and economic distinctions. No wonder Guyanese of all classes and ethnicities join in enthusiastically celebrating this joyous festival in a carnival of colours,” President Ali said in his message.

According to the Head of State, the religious significance of Phagwah recalls the eternal belief shared by peoples of all faiths – that good will eventually triumph over evil, that gloom and difficulties are but transitory and will eventually give way to resurgent hope and harmony, and that we must offer thanks and praise for nature’s bounty.

The President further noted that this year’s Phagwah is being celebrated at a time when the nation is upbeat, confident, and assured about its future.

“This year, we have much cause for celebration. Our country is on the path towards a return to normalcy. The evidence suggests that the local COVID-19 outbreak is waning, so much so that we have been able to relax social restrictions. However, we must continue to exercise good sense,” he stated.

Moreover, the Guyanese Leader posited that the country’s economy was becoming stronger as it rebound-

ed from the two-year-long effects of the coronavirus pandemic. He added that businesses, both local and foreign, were also capitalising on the unfolding opportunities and, in the process, generating jobs and providing incomes for Guyanese citizens.

In addition, the President outlined that his “One Guyana” agenda was also gaining traction and bringing Guyanese people closer together. It is also promoting peace and unity, and creating conditions for benefits for the common good.

This “One Guyana” initiative is the brainchild of President Ali and is geared towards promoting greater inclusion at the legislative, political, and social levels in Guyana.

Meanwhile, further addressing a pressing issue in the country regarding the rising cost of living locally that has been exacerbated by global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and more recently, the Russia-Ukraine crisis, the Guyanese Leader reassured citizens that his Government was committed to bringing relief to citizens with the $5 billion that was set aside in the 2022 Budget to offset the impact of increasing prices on the world market.

“Guyanese are a resilient people. Faced in the past with daunting and difficult circumstances, they have proven adept and resourceful in overcoming challenges. As such, I am supremely confident that with the interventions planned by my Government, we will surmount the problems associated with the global supply chain crisis and the effects of the war in Eastern Europe,” President Ali said.

Nevertheless, as the country celebrates the festival of Phagwah, the Head of State urges Guyanese to spare a thought for the people not only in Ukraine but in other parts of the world who are subject to the horrific effects of war. He further implored that they also commit to ensuring continued peace and greater harmony at home.

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Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Holi: Transcending religious boundaries in Guyana

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oday, Hindus across the world will be celebrating the colourful and joyous festival of Holi, or Phagwah, as it is known. From a Guyanese standpoint, this, like some other locally observed festivals, has transcended religious boundaries to become a most anticipated national one.

Guyanese from all walks of life, more importantly religious and ethnic groupings, participate in the fun and frolic that are associated with the celebrations, epitomised by vibrancy and the fusion of colours.

Celebratory activities have grown across the country, allowing for more focused congregations for interactions.

This augurs well for national unity, as it serves in many ways to bring people together. Over the years, it became evident that the various levels of society are seemingly dismantled on that day, as the diverse colours mask the lines of separation.

It is also demonstrative of the unison of our diversity, and being true to the locally and embedded custom of the various ethnic groups sharing and participating in each other’s cultural traditions and celebrations. This is not just confined to Phagwah, but is very evident at Easter and Christmas, as Guyanese generally do not see the religious boundaries, at least in that context.

That offers a wish for the spontaneous and, by and large, genuine camaraderie to not be confined to those particular days. The desire of many, if not all, would be for these to be built upon. That aside, these national festivals do offer, through their significance, pertinent lessons for the advancement of humanity. If these are genuinely heeded, then the forging of national unity could become less challenging. For that to work, the messages must therefore not be lost in the celebrations.

One of the overarching themes of Phagwah is that good will always triumph over evil, as captured in the story of Prahalad, who refused to submit himself to what his father, the King, dictated to his subjects. The young boy would not allow what he personally believed in to be expunged by the King’s whims and fancies. In simple terms, Prahalad stood up to his own father by refusing to allow a particular wish being imposed upon him.

His defiance was not without consequence, as his own aunt, Holika, who was bestowed with the boom of being indestructible by fire, urged the King to have herself and Prahalad be placed in a fire, convinced that the boy would be destroyed, leaving her untouched. The King agreed, and the rest is history. She was destroyed, and Prahalad was unharmed. This aspect of the story is captured through the symbolic burning of the Holika on the night before Phagwah.

In the struggle between good and evil, one cannot get away with the statement, “The Devil made me do it”. We are all responsible for our actions, and as a corollary, if “bad” is being done in our family, village or society, then one has a duty to confront it. The festival of Holi, like all the Hindu festivals, is associated with several narratives that are supposed to bring home not only the message, but to exemplify how we should act in our individual capacities.

From this standpoint of bringing all the various peoples in our multicultural nation together, festivals like Holi does this. In the more than fifty years since it became a Public Holiday, Holi has been embraced by the widest possible cross section of Guyanese. If life is all about happiness, then Holi is the festival that brings out this more than anything else in Guyana.

Happy Holi!

Canadian High Commissioner Mark Berman; British High Commissioner Jane Miller; US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch; Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa and other dignitaries at State House on Thursday evening during the Holi celebration

PHAGUAA - its relevance to us in modern times Dear Editor, Festivals are an important part of the sum-total of human culture. They seek to bring cohesiveness in a community, and they point to the level of civilisation that a particular nation or race has built over the years. Since festival time is always sacred, it provides man an opportunity to participate in a supernatural realm that informs or reminds him of his origin, identity, and even destiny.

All countries of the world celebrate their own festivals, whether seasonal, agricultural, religious, or national.

India, perhaps more than any country of the world, boasts of several categories of festivals; these are so numerous that they fill up the entire Indian calendar.

There are seasonal festivals like Vasant Panchami and Makar Sankranti; religious festivals like Shravani Purnimaa, and national festivals like Independence and Republic Day. Diwali and Phaguaa are the most notable festivals in India. They are both agricultural-seasonal festivals, since they are celebrated at the time when crops are harvested and seasons are about to change. Diwali is celebrated in October, when the rice crop is harvested and Fall comes, while Phaguaa is celebrated in March, when the wheat crop is harvested and Spring comes. In Sanskrit, they are both called Nava Sasyeshti Parva (Festival of new grains).

Phaguaa is also known as Holi.

Phaguaa (meaning, the festival of the month of Phaalgun) is the name of the Spring festival that is more known in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, whereas Holi (the festival of Holika) is the name that is universally used.

There are three principal ideas associated with the observance of Phaguaa, and these are seasonal change, grains, and brotherhood.

Seasonal Change: Winter is a long season, in which most of the world of vegetation "sleeps, as it were in cold death".

Many trees and plants lose all signs of life - there are no leaves, no flowers, no fruits. After this period of death, Spring officially makes a declaration on the Calendar that it has come! But oh! At this time, it is still cold. Approximately forty days after the official commencement of Spring, Indians observe a festival called Vasant Panchami. At this

time, in the fields of North India, one can see the beautiful yellow flowers of the sarso (mustard) plant.

Yes! Spring is here! The more this season establishes its ruling presence, the more it succeeds in conquering the wintry effects of hibernation and death. It brings warmth and smiles, colour and fragrance, blossoms and flowers, fruits and grains, birds and natural sounds, fresh air and bright sunlight, farmers and their animals on their land; and even songs, music and dancing -and through these, the Season fortifies the foundations for life to assert its feeling of victory over death. From this day of Vasant Panchami until the official day of Phaguaa-Holi, there is joy all over the sacred land of our forefathers. It is for this reason, Spring (Vasant) is called Rituraaj, the King of all seasons.

Grains: Grains make up the very basis of a person's life. People cannot live on dollars and cents; they live on, and thrive with, grains. The people of impoverished countries know the value of grains, because there is very little to eat in those areas. A country that possesses more grains (yad annam bahu) than the population can actually consume (attaa kaneeyaan) is a prosperous country, says the Shatapath Braahman, one of the ancient texts of India. It is for this reason that wealth is praised in superlative terms, and the Source of that wealth (God) is worshipped with profound fervour. There are no grains reaped in Winter. Rituraaj Spring, however, brings grains.

Like Diwali, Phaguaa is celebrated when the crop is harvested. Before the actual harvesting, people, especially in the villages of India, can, and sometimes do, experience a shortage of grain. Can we measure the joy a farmer experiences when he harvests his grains? Perhaps that farmer's joy can compare to the joy of an impoverished American citizen winning a million-dollar lottery. It is in celebrating the coming of wealth that he, in his traditional style, sits down in a Havan ritual to make an oblation of his newly-harvested grains on to a blazing sacrificial fire. The farmer knows that several cosmic forces are responsible for this wealth - the earth with its fertility, the rains with their nourishment, the sun with its rays, and God with His mercy. And so, he wishes to express his grat-

itude unto all these cosmic forces. By his act of offering onto the holy fire, he symbolically surrenders ownership of that wealth.

Since grain-wealth is given to him by the forces of nature, he is not the sole owner and enjoyer. He is bound by natural and moral law to share. He eats sin who eats alone, warns the Rigveda. And, Shri Krishna, echoing this Vedic teaching in the Bhagavad Gita, calls him a stena, a thief, who eats all alone without sharing with those who deserve a portion of his wealth. So, on this same sacrificial fire, he roasts a set of newly harvested grains (like chick-peas). This roasted chickpeas is called holak or holikaa. He distributes roasted holak/holikaa to his friends, for which reason Phaguaa is also called Holikaa Utsav.

Brotherhood: We have said that Winter spells death, and Spring ushers in life. Old forms of hatred help prolong death. New feelings of brotherhood facilitate the germination and growth of new roots of life. On Phaguaa Day, we chant, Yo'smaan dwesti yam vayam dwishmas tam vo jambhe dadhmah - O Lord! I consign into Your Justice the hatred that I have for someone, or that someone may have for me!! And so, in the midst of merriment, singing and dancing, and spraying colours, we become coloured in the colours of Spring that give life and share love.

In these modern times, we, too, like our foreparents, can celebrate PhaguaaHoli in a meaningful way. Let us not live in exclusion of the creativity in the cycle of seasons, and let us recognise the arrival of new life by chanting holy Vedic verses, spraying colours, singing songs, making new friends by giving up old hatred, and sharing a part of our wealth with our fellow human beings.

And do not forget to teach your child that Phaguaa, like every other Arya/ Hindu festival, is there to help him identify with his roots. Tell your child that he/ she belongs to the ancient-most civilization, and that the beliefs and practices of our system have been tested for generations and proven true.

Phaguaa Abhinandan - Phaguaa Greetings. Namaste!

Sincerely, Dr Satish Prakash

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022

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News

Govt finalising new Mental Health Legislation, Suicide Prevention Bill H

ealth Minister Dr Frank Anthony has said the Government is finalising the new Mental Health Legislation and the Suicide Prevention Bill, which are intended to tackle mental health issues and suicide in Guyana.

The Minister has said the country’s current legislation dates back to 1934, and while there have been attempts in the past to establish new bills, there has been little success.

“We’re in the process of finalising that law, and hopefully we can get it through the various committees, and make sure that we can get a new law that governs mental health,” he said during his COVID-19

update on Thursday.

“The things that are reflected there (are) the modern thinking relating to mental health issues, and that is what we want to bring to Guyana, to make sure that it permeates all the different structures that we have. It must be progressive, it must be modern, and we must be able to address the real problems that patients would have,” he explained.

Government’s intention is to rid society of the stigmatisation attached to mental health, and instead help persons to recognise it and offer compassion to persons with such issues.

“It would help persons create that enabling environment, so that people

would feel welcomed and be able to cope with their illnesses,” Dr Anthony said.

He noted that early diagnosis and treatment are important, and persons should access the services.

“There is nothing wrong with going for counselling.

There is nothing wrong with accessing treatment, absolutely nothing wrong with that,” Dr. Anthony has said.

Apart from the bills, the Government has collaborated with Columbia University, which will assess the mental health issues in Guyana.

Meanwhile, Dr Anthony has said the Ministry has collaborated with the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre to of-

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony

fer mental health services to children. Children who have been diagnosed with

autism or other spectrum disorders would be able to access adequate care.

Addressing suicide, he related that it remains an issue, and sometimes the ‘telltale’ signs are missed.

“We need, as a society if we are going to lower the rates of suicide, for example; if we are going to reduce the amount of depression that we have - we need to talk to people. And with patients, there are simple tools that can be used; by just asking them a few questions, you can actually get a sense about some of these illnesses,” he noted.

The Minister said cases are being detected more in the regions rather than centrally. He said the Government is working to get more persons to access the services in the respective regions.

USAID must be cognisant of the flaws in its report expense statements at least 35 days after elections. Yog Mahadeo and Article 13 had 192 days to raise the question with Lowenfield, but did not.

Lowenfield was fired,

Dear Editor, Keith Lowenfield remained at GECOM for 527 days after the General and Regional Elections of 2020.

Political parties are supposed to submit campaign

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and is facing charges of electoral fraud; however, Article 13 saw it fit to upbraid Lowenfield’s successor, Vishnu Persaud, for failing to find those submissions (if any exists).

The tone of Article 13’s criticism of Persaud seems to suggest that Persaud is somehow responsible for Lowenfield’s failures. I find this opportunistic, asinine and cowardly, and would suggest that Article 13 find a legal mechanism to force answers from where they should be found, namely Mr. Lowenfield.

The phenomenon of deliberately shifting blame is trending, and is not confined to the social butterflies of ‘civil society’.

In 2017, under David Granger’s APNU+AFC coalition administration, two ‘stale-dated’ checks were accepted as bonds by the staff of the Ministry of National Security (now Home Affairs); however, the newly appointed Permanent Secretary was somehow expected to explain

how this occurred over three years before she took the job. It was reported: “After PS Thomas, as the Chief Accounting Officer, shifting almost every question to her subordinate officers, MP Vishwa Mahadeo introduced a verbal motion to have the agency ‘go, sort themselves out, and come again’.”

Seemingly placing the blame on PS Thomas for the failures of her predecessor.

However, these incidents pale in comparison with the transgressions against logic and fact contained in the USAID Report, which was prepared by three Guyanese women.

Consider this statement, “National elections were held on March 2, 2020, and won by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) led by Irfaan Ali; although the election results were delayed due to the litigation of numerous fraud allegations and other legal challenges.”

One would be hard-pressed to discern that David Granger and APNU+AFC

blatantly attempted to steal the elections via the Mingo ‘bedsheet’ method. An ambiguity of language wherever APNU+AFC transgressed is the theme throughout the report, and a cherry-picking from news and agency reports to cast doubts on the PPPC administrations (past and present).

Editor, despite the abundance of verified corruption in the Granger administration, the report is oblivious to the Drug Bond; Demerara Harbour Bridge Feasibility Study; Energy contracts to Cathy Hughes; Bangles, Beds et al scandals. The USAID Report shockingly states as fact “The (PPPC) administration’s goal is to shed its party’s previous reputation for corruption and influence by its relationship with China”.

Having read the PPPC manifesto, which includes promises of house lots, schoolchildren cash grants, and reversal of over two hundred onerous taxes imposed

by APNU+AFC, among oth-

ers, I have failed to find any assertion similar to the one made in the report; it renders the entire report fraudulent.

USAID must be cognisant of the flaws in its report (presented with a disclaimer), and may find it prudent to broaden the ethnicity and gender of future consultant teams to ensure the credibility of the organisation is maintained, problematic areas are correctly identified, and solutions proposed are pragmatic.

Questioning and criticism of those in the administration of our country remain an important part of the democracy we enjoy, but those questions must also come from a clean and honest place.

Seeking to muddy waters and blame Peter for Paul is the work of those seeking to conflate and dissipate the dishonest deeds of the APNU+AFC for partisan purposes.

Sincerely, Robin Singh

The US’ travel advisory and its implications Dear Editor, In a previous letter to the editor, I highlighted the fact that the area around the Stabroek Market block must be cleared of all derelict structures, and that the entire area should be properly developed into a modern urban commercial hub before any real change can take place in Guyana.

It is a glaring fact that no one can deny or simply gloss over. I say this because that area is a representation of the largest congregation of people of all types and groups, with varying agendas, most of which are not in keeping with legal activities.

Those characters that frequent this area make for one big, lawless, ghetto-style confusion out there.

Municipal markets in the city are places where people navigate through speeding traffic and narrow passageways, vendors haggle, city touts shout to the tops of their lungs, and all are caught up in a daily profusion that is unsightly and dangerous. There is shouting and cursing; it is a place where vagrants abound amidst rotting, smelly garbage, and the stench of urine is suffocating!

On a daily basis, this is the "normal" state of affairs in uptown Georgetown.

In such a situation, thieves and pickpocket hustlers roam free, because the situation encourages lawlessness. The situation gets even worse, as everything in those quarters creates the ideal atmosphere for such nefarious activities to flourish. There is a total absence of law and order around city markets.

It therefore behooves anyone to well understand why the United States of America issued a travel advisory on Guyana. The US is advising its citizens to be wary of the elements that infest this area, giving specific directives as to how and

when to conduct business in and around those places. It is the sad reality that we all have to face.

I close by saying City municipal market locations are breeding grounds for crime, and if the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown do not understand this, then it paints all of us Guyanese in the worst possible light, both on the local turf as well as on the international scene. We can ill afford such negative publicity at this crucial stage of our development.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

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Page

Foundation ◄ Question 1

By Martin Carter Do not stare at me from your window, lady do not stare and wonder where I came from Born in this city was I, lady, hearing the beetles at six o'clock and the noisy cocks in the morning when your hands rumple the bed sheet and night is locked up the wardrobe.

My hands are full of lines

I

n this fun and easy force and motion science experiment for kids, we’re going to see if we can observe inertia.

Materials:

Thursday’s answers 1a) Pat saves $1500 of her weekly wages 1b) Pat spends $3000 on food/clothing and $2000 on entertainment So she spends a total of $3000 + $2000 = $5000 on food/clothing and entertainment altogether

Three-foot piece of string Book Rubber band

Instructions:

Tie one end of the string around the book.

Tie the other end of the string to the rubber band.

Now put the book on a carpeted surface.

Grab the rubber band and pull the book across the carpet. The rubber band will stretch as the book starts to move, but will not stretch as much once the book begins moving.

How it works:

1c) Pat’s weekly wages = The amount allocated to savings + entertainment + rent + food/clothing = $1500 + $2000 + $1500 + $3000 = $8000

Inertia explains that an object in motion tends to stay in motion and an object at rest tends to stay at rest. To overcome inertia, you have to get the book moving by stretching the rubber band further than you have to once the book is moving.

1d) Pat would earn in two weeks her weekly wages x 2 = $8000 x 2 = $16,000

Try pulling the book across different surfaces. Try different lengths of string. Try different lengths and sizes of rubber bands. (sciencefun.org)

Make this a science project:

like your breast with veins, lady So do not stare and wonder where I came from My hands are full of lines like your breast with viens, lady and one must rear, while one must suckle life...

Do not stare at me from your window, lady.

Stare at the wagon of prisoners!

Stare at the hearse passing by your gate!

Stare at the slums in the south of the city!

Stare hard and reason, lady, where I came from and where I go.

My hand is full of lines like your breast with veins, lady, and one must rear, while one must suckle life.

“In a world where you can be anything, be kind” — Jennifer Dukes Lee

WORD SEARCH

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FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

High Court dismisses union’s bid to represent GGMC workers

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he Guyana Civil Servants and General Workers Union (GCS&GWU) has lost its bid to represent a certain category of workers at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) after its application was dismissed by High Court Justice Nareshwar Harnanan earlier this month.

The GCS&GWU had challenged a decision taken by the Trade Union Recognition and Certification Board to deny its application to be recognised as a union representing GGMC workers in the categories of administrative, professional, technical, clerical, and tradesmen.

Named in the application as respondents are: Chairman of the Certification Board, Nanda Gopaul; the Attorney General, and the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), which is currently the sole union representing the GGMC workers.

Certification Board Chairman Nanda Gopaul

It was noted that GCS&GWU had made several applications to the Trade Union Recognition and Certification Board to be treated as the recognised union of these workers.

In considering its last application, dated May 31, 2021,

the board conducted a poll on October 22, in accordance with section 21 of the Trade Union Recognition Act, to decide which union would represent these specific sets of GGMC workers.

During the poll, out of a voters’ list (bargaining unit) of 498 persons, only 260 votes were cast. The GCS&GWU obtained 158 votes and GPSU, who was at all material times the majority union certified to represent the employees of GGMC, secured 102 votes.

However, the Board unanimously agreed that, based on the results, GCS&GWU’s 158 votes accounted for 31.73 per cent of support amongst the workers in the bargaining unit of 498 employees. It was further decided that by obtaining 31.73 per cent support amongst the workers in the bargaining unit, GCS&GWU failed to satisfy the stipulated threshold of 40 per cent of the 498 workers in the unit,

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

as stipulated by the Act, in order to cancel the GPSU’s Certificate of Recognition.

As a result of that decision, GCS&GWU challenged the Board’s interpretation of section 21 of the Act, and filed a Fixed Date Application on November 8, asking the court to review the decision of the

Search continues for missing Rosignol fisherman

O

ne day after a boat capsized in the Atlantic Ocean resulting in a 26-year-old fisherman going missing, family members are clinging to hope that the man is still alive and are urging more persons to volunteer in the search-and-rescue mission to find him.

Missing is Suraj Daneshwar, a father of one of Rosignol, West Bank Berbice (WBB), who has been working in the fishing industry for the past five years.

According to the Police, Daneshwar, along with the boat’s captain, Oneil Deputron, about 05:00h on Tuesday left the three-door koker at Rosignol, and headed for sea, in a 36-foot wooden boat equipped with a 40-horsepower engine.

About 08:20h on Wednesday, Deputron went to the Blairmont Police Station,

Missing: Suraj Daneshwar

where he reported that about 21:00h on Tuesday while returning from sea – in the vicinity of Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice (WCB) – about four miles offshore – a large wave hit the boat.

This caused the vessel to

capsize and resulted in both himself and the now missing man falling into the deep sea.

Deputron related that about 10 to 15 seconds after, he managed to resurface and held onto the boat and upon looking for Daneshwar, he did not see him. The man further stated that the boat began to drift further into the sea with him until he was rescued by another fishing boat.

The vessel has since been recovered and brought to shore, but there were no signs of the missing fisherman.

A search-and-rescue team went out into the ocean on Thursday to continue the search, but up to news time, there was still no sight of the missing man.

The search-and-rescue team comprised four vessels – one belonging to the Coast Guard while three were volunteers. Up to 14:00h today,

all but one volunteer had given up on the search.

Family members said based on expert advice provided by local fisherfolk, the missing fisherman might have drifted into the Berbice River – given the direction of the tides.

As such, the family is pleading with persons to volunteer to search the Berbice River in a bid to find the man who they hope is still alive.

Guyana Times was informed that during Thursday’s search, the vessels covered the area from the mouth of the Berbice River all the way to the Mahaica area in the Atlantic Ocean.

Meanwhile, local authorities are still searching for three fishermen who went missing after the vessel they were working on capsized in the Atlantic Ocean on March 9.

Board, which falls under the Labour Ministry; to also declare that the Board erred in concluding that the proviso to section 21(3) of the Act prevented it from decertifying GPSU; as well as a declaration that, having decisively lost the poll, the GPSU could not properly continue to be the certified union for the employees of GGMC; and that order be issued to decertify the GPSU and to certify the GCS&GWU to represent the GGMC employees.

The GCS&GWU, in their written submissions, argued that due to the punctuations in Section 21 (a period/full stop at the end of subsection 2 and a colon at the end of subsection 3), the proviso in section 21 which speaks to the requirement of obtaining not less than 40 per cent of the votes among the workers in the unit is not applicable to the entire section, but is restricted in its application to subsection 3 of section 21, which speaks to instances when the results of the poll show a tie or are inconclusive.

The union contended that since the proviso does not apply to section 21(2), they should be certified as the majority union, since they received the majority votes among the workers that took part in the poll.

But the respondents counter-argued that the Act must be read as a whole, and that it was clear that the legislators provided for various situations, including at Section 21(2), which speaks to the determination of a recognised union where two or more unions are involved; Section 21(3), which provides the procedure in the event of a tie; and the proviso in Section 21, which speaks to the situation where there is already a certified union and said union is being challenged.

According to the respondents, the proviso in section 21 applies to the entire section 21, as it qualifies the sec-

tion to provide a procedure for when there is already a certified union.

They further argued that section 21(2) could never have been intended to apply to a union that has already been certified, as is the case with GPSU. They further argued that if one is to use the applicant’s contention that the proviso does not apply to section 21(2), then this would lead to an absurdity. This is since section 21(2) does not provide a logical procedure for a situation where there is already a certified union.

Section 21(2) only contemplated a situation where there is no certified union and two or more trade unions have applied under section 18.

However, Justice Harnanan, in his decision, upheld the written submissions made by the respondents, ruling that the Board did not act in excess of its jurisdiction, and that there was no unreasonable, irregular, or improper exercise of the Board’s discretion.

The High Court Judge also found that the proviso applies to the entire section 21, and any contrary interpretation would lead to an absurdity.

Hence, he said there was no error in law on the part of the Board.

With the dismissal of the application, the GCS&GWU was ordered to pay $250,000 in costs to the Board and the Attorney General, and another $200,000 to the GPSU. GCS&GWU was represented by Attorney Mayo Robertson, while the Board and the Attorney General’s Chambers were represented

by AG Mohabir Anil Nandlall SC MP, Assistant Solicitor General Beverley BishopCheddie, and State Counsel Teakaram Singh.

GPSU was represented by Attorney Mandisa A Breedy.

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East Canje murder accused remanded – Police arrest 2nd suspect

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wenty-two-year-old Imran Khan, also called ‘Germs,’ of Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme, East Canje Berbice, was on Thursday remanded to prison for the murder of 24-yearold Alex Williams, a mason who was chopped to death on March 12.

The unrepresented Khan was not required to plead to the indictable charge of murder on his arraignment before Magistrate Robindranauth Singh at the Reliance Magistrate’s Court. He will make his next court appearance on April 5, 2022 at the New Amsterdam Magistrates’ Courts.

The Police on Wednesday evening arrested the key suspect in Williams’s murder at a home at Number 65 Village, Corentyne. According to the

Murder accused Imran Khan

Police, a group of officers went to the home and arrested the 24-year-old construction worker of New Amsterdam, who goes by the alias ‘Black Boy’.

It has been reported that on Saturday, March 12, be-

tween 21:30h and 22:00h, Williams was chopped to his neck, and died shortly after reaching the New Amsterdam Hospital.

Sections of the media had reported that Alex Williams, who had left home to purchase cigarettes and beers, had returned shortly after and told his father that he was ‘disrespected’ by a group of friends, and had asked his father if he was going with him.

Williams had reportedly armed himself with a cutlass when he left his home, and had confronted the three suspects when a full bottle of Guinness was thrown at him.

It exploded, and being hit with the bottle, Williams reportedly fell to the ground; and while there, he was chopped by one of the suspects. It is be-

Elections...

B

Dead: Alex Williams

lieved that the fatal blow was a chop to his neck.

Meanwhile, Police are on the hunt for a third suspect.

…and PNC scheming ack in 19th Century New England, Hester Prynne committed adultery and was forced to wear a Scarlet Letter - “A” - on her blouse, to remind herself and her community of her violation of the community’s norms and standards. “A”, of course, is for “adulterer”. Your Eyewitness recommends that a Black letter “R” (for “rigging”) be placed on the shirt or blouse of every APNU/PNC/AFC official whenever they represent their party.

The thought struck your Eyewitness when he read about GECOM meeting with the Opposition leaders. Imagine the latter’s gall to suggest that the public doesn’t have much faith in the credibility of GECOM - and that deep reforms are necessary before elections are held!! This is outrageous on so many levels!! It demonstrates the importance of context when statements are made!! Sure, GECOM has a credibility problem after the 2020 elections…but who the heck caused those problems, if not APNU/PNC/AFC??

This is tantamount to a rapist saying he doesn’t want to have anything to do with the woman he raped because she isn’t a virgin!! Hello!!!?! What about the PNC’s role in destroying GECOM’s credibility?? “Sorry…can’t talk about that,” smirked the PNC leaders!! But who else can explain why, after GECOM was universally praised at the end of elections day, it all went south after that??

Like PNC Elections Head Harmon being in contact with the GECOM clerk who was altering the Reg 4 SOPs on the night of March3?? Those alterations led to the count being announced from the spreadsheets rather than from the individual SOPs - which the court pronounced was illegal!!?

But your Eyewitness doesn’t have to give a blow-by-blow of GECOM’s subversion, does he? OH…it’s soooo painful!! The bedsheet! The bedsheet!!

Now, if the letter “R” had been pinned on the APNU/PNC execs, even they would’ve possibly balked at going down the road they did. But, then again, shame was never their strongpoint, was it?!! Furthermore, the PPP Government - having suffered for five months from the PNC’s cheating ways - has already launched a process to straighten out the operations of GECOM! Haven’t they? Hiring new brooms and all that!

But no…that doesn’t satisfy the PNC - they want a “new voters list” for the LGE that’s due. The continuous registration programme launched and the claims and objections coming up don’t satisfy them. They complain about the “bloated” List of National Registrants from which the Voters List is extracted, knowing fully well that the Courts have ruled that it’s unconstitutional to remove the names of overseas Guyanese that “bloats” the list.

The PNC just doesn’t want to be humiliated once again!!

Pin those black “Bs” on all of them!! …and legitimacy Five months after dragging out the elections’ results following a recount witnessed by the entire world, the PNC’s changed their tune. From claiming that the PPP “rigged” the elections (while out of Government!!) they complained that the US Government engaged in “regime change” by intervening in the elections. They never did spell out exactly how that “intervention” - which at most consisted of commenting on the PNC shenanigans - changed the votes recorded on the paper ballots! Surely the Russian hackers Ramjattan and Cathy intercepted weren’t working for the Americans, were they?

But, of recent, the PNC have turned their rudder once again. The USAID report that suggests the PPP bring in the PNC from the cold is now being trumpeted from the rooftops. This, of course, isn’t “interference”!! Now, your Eyewitness is aware that big powers intervene in elections etc to protect their interests, like right here with Jagan in the 1960s.

But the PNC’s rejecting the very essence of democratic elections: to confer legitimacy on governments.

Democracy by undemocratic means?! …for LG this year The PPP shouldn’t be suckered by the PNC - like they were for decades on demands to reform the Local Government laws - to postpone the LGE. The PNC will just turn around and blame them for being “undemocratic”.

The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

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2022 – reinvigorating Guyana’s investment landscape, sparking transformation – GO-Invest

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he Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest), in collaboration with various Ministries and supporting agencies, has updated and reinforced the Sector Investment Prospectus to focus on critical investment areas such as agriculture, energy, mining, forestry, information and communication technology, tourism, manufacturing, and services.

The prospectus highlights and promotes Guyana’s eclectic portfolio of the most auspicious and lucrative investment opportunities to local and foreign investors.

Enclosed in the prospectus is the attractive fiscal incentive regime that investors can benefit from throughout the various sectors as well as data on the key sectors, sector overviews, the economy, why they should invest and comparative advantages.

The year 2022 is the next phase in President Dr Irfaan Ali’s masterplan for Guyana’s economic transformation into a regional powerhouse. This plan is driven through Budget 2022, which lays the foundation of the President’s vision for Guyana.

According to a release from GO-Invest Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Peter Ramsaroop, Budget 2022, comprising a historic $553 billion, encompasses massive infrastructural developments and building of capacity for our sustainable industries: energy, agriculture and tourism. Food security and expansion of agriculture is a central pillar, which the Government intends to address, to create a high-yielding agriculture sector to reduce the food import bill of Caricom by

25 per cent by 2025.

Guyana’s economic growth is projected to skyrocket in 2022 as the World Bank has since amended the country’s initial growth projection from 26 per cent in June of 2021 to a jaw-dropping 49.7 per cent despite the current constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic. (World Bank’s “Global Economic Prospects” report, January of 2022) “Over the course of the last two years, the Government has laid the foundation for Guyana’s development.

Infrastructure projects are already taking place to vigorously impact trade with regional partners and expand the “El Dorado corridor” with Suriname and Northern Brazil.

The commencement of the Corentyne River Bridge will link Suriname and Guyana and will start in 2022. This linkage will radically enhance trade and investments in Guyana. Guyana and Northern Brazil are benefiting from the commencement of upgrades to the long-planned road in addition to the deep-water harbour in Berbice, which will open the door to bilateral trade,” Dr Ramsaroop added.

The development of two new shore bases on the west side of the Demerara River currently in construction by two local companies will further strengthen our local content capacity and create significant opportunities for Guyanese.

President Ali emphasised that “Budget 2022 is making way for remarkable development in the already-booming tourism industry, in areas such as local and international branding, small business

support and collaboration with major international chains through investments”.

In the Head of State’s pre-budget address, he said, “Investments are being made in Budget 2022 to achieve the reduction in our energy costs and electricity by 50 per cent by the time we get to 2025”.

The focus is an integrated energy solution consisting of hydro, solar, and wind energy.

A company has been selected to undertake the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, which will further enhance Guyana’s energy mix bringing 165 megawatts (MW) to the grid. The gas-to-shore pipeline is commencing in 2022 and will result in a net 250 MW delivered into the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) grid located on the East Bank of the Demerara River as stated by the Natural Resources Ministry.

Investments are already commencing in health care, education and other social services and will improve the living conditions of Guyanese.

New hospitals are being built across Guyana’s regions to provide state-of-the-art services to our people.

Guyana is open for investment, but the outlook is far beyond oil and gas. Our LowCarbon Development Strategy, natural beauty, and the value of our forests and human resources existed long before the discovery of oil. Tremendous opportunities are already being sought in agriculture, tourism, the new Silica City, infrastructure, manufacturing, industrial development, and agro-processing. Join the wave and do not miss the action, which is taking place in Guyana.

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"One Guyana" motto resonates at Holi rangoli competition

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he Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry on Thursday hosted a rangoli competition in keeping with the Holi celebrations, and it reverberated a message of "One Guyana".

Teams from different organisations and agencies turned up along Main Street, where a selection of designs and colours was displayed to represent not just the festival of colours, but the diversity of the Guyanese culture.

Cavin Roberts from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) shared that their message

is one that calls for unity among Guyanese, breaking all barriers which contribute negatively to society.

“Our group is called Springs of Unity. That is the message we want to send to all Guyana, that we’re here to share love as one unified Guyana. In Guyana, we know we have issues like racism and so on. We want to break those barriers today, and we want to send that message of peace and harmony. That’s actually why we incorporated the flag’s colours,” Roberts told Guyana Times.

T i f f a n y Boodhoo of the Guyana Bureau of Statistics said they chose to highlight the beauty of Guyana’s flora and fauna through the use of peacocks and flower motifs.

“We chose to do peacocks embedded in the design. The significance is that the peacocks represent beauty, just to show a little bit of Guyana’s beauty.

We know our country is very beautiful. It’s on the world map in terms of tourism, so we know there’s so much nature, rich forests and so on.

We planned on capturing some of that in our piece,” she said.

She lauded the initiative as a medium of fostering cohesion and kinship among each other, especially since Guyana is celebrating the festival after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19.

“Doing this with my co-

workers unified us, and we had a lot of fun. I must say thanks to the Ministry for allowing us this opportunity. We’re having so much fun, and, of course, have to return next year. It’s a great experience in keeping with the One Guyana theme.

It’s a chance for us to in-

teract with people. COVID has kept us in for so long.

It’s something very refreshing for us,” the Bureau of Statistics employee underscored.

Representing the Amerindian Affairs Ministry, Adel Roberts and his team created a design

support each other. It’s also fun and excitement to be together,” Roberts told this publication.

Additionally, Doneeta Ramlakhan from the Guyana Energy Agency shared, “We’re doing a peacock, depicting peace and prosperity. Knowing

that incorporated several features and national symbols of Guyana. According to him, such festivals connote the wholesome Guyanese culture of participating in all celebrations.

“We have a design that would depict not only this festive season, but Guyana itself. We did a design of the Guyana map with the national bird as well, the national headdress. The thing about Guyanese culture is that we all intermingle with each other’s culture.

Whenever there’s a season that represents the six ethnic groups, we’re all there to

Guyanese, it doesn’t matter what holiday it is, Guyanese always come together and come as one in unity.”

From the Grove-Diamond Youths in Development, the Guyana flag was intertwined with peacocks, a combination of patriotism and the Indian culture. Bibi Yassin highlighted, “Our design, we would have incorporated the Guyana flag. It is in keeping with the "One Guyana" (theme). We have the peacock. In Hinduism, it is symbolic of royalty and rejuvenation, so it’s a time where people come together.”

NEWS

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Ganja, uncustomed liquor, local and foreign currencies found during Police operation – businessman, relatives taken into custody

The items that were seized

Belizean $100 were found.

A further search was conducted in a locked and secured room on the bottom flat of the business, and 24 bottles of Double Black whis-

A

3 0 - y e a r - o l d Georgetown businessman was, with his wife, mother-in-law, and another relative, taken into Police custody on Wednesday following the discovery of a quantity of ganja, several bottles of uncustomed alcohol, and over $18 million in foreign and local currencies on his business premises.

The Police have said that CID ranks from Headquarters were executing a search warrant on the property in East Street North Cummingsburg, Georgetown when the items were found. According to information, Gy $2,508,370; US$75,697; SRD$4,664; EURO 6,145; Bajan $19; Cdn $40; T&T $171; Bs (Venezuelan) $100 and

key; 16 bottles of Johnny Walker Black whiskey; 11 bottles of Jack Daniels whiskey; 2 bottles of Merry Irish Cream Liqueur; 16 cases of Budweiser beer; 1 case of

Red Bull energy drink and 47 boxes of disposal latex gloves were found.

Further, a small blueand-white cooler with the businessman’s logo was

seen on top of a cupboard, and this was retrieved and searched. Inside, a black plastic bag containing two parcels wrapped in transparent plastic and suspected to be narcotics were discovered. The cannabis was confiscated, weighed, and amounted to 2.030 kilograms.

Following the discovery, the businessman was arrested, along with his wife, mother-in-law, and his wife’s 18-year-old cousin, while the contraband, narcotics, cash and other items were lodged with the custodian of the GPF Property Room.

Moreover, on the said day, ranks executed a second search warrant at this businessman’s Providence, EBD property, during which three DVRs were confiscated to be reviewed.

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Pedal cyclist killed by drunken driver A

57-year-old pedal cyclist was on Wednesday evening killed in an accident along Mandela Avenue, Georgetown.

The dead man has been identified as Lyndon Austin of Go-Slow 4th Avenue, Tucville, Georgetown.

The Police have said that on Wednesday, at about 22:30h, motorcar PAC 1350 was proceeding north along the western carriageway of the roadway while Austin was proceeding in the same direction on his bicycle.

As the driver of the motorcar was in the vicinity of the Rubis Gas Station, the pedal cyclist allegedly attempted to cross the roadway, and in the process ended up in the path of the

The bicycle that Lyndon Austin was riding when he was killed

motorcar. As a result, the front portion of the motorcar came into contact with Austin.

Due to the impact, the pedal cyclist was thrown onto the bonnet and windscreen of the motorcar, and landed on the surface of the road, causing him to sustain injuries to his body.

He was picked up by the driver in an unconscious condition and transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was treated for abrasions about the body and for head injuries. Austin reportedly died without regaining consciousness while receiving further treatment.

A breathalyzer test was administered on the 32-yearold driver of Vryheid’s

The cracked windscreen of the motor car following the accident

Lust, East Coast Demerara (ECD), and it proved that his alcohol consumption was

above the legal limit. He has been arrested, and is assisting with investigations.

Customs officer granted bail for shooting, injuring horse cart operators

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avid Ali, a customs officer attached to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), who reportedly shot and injured two horse cart operators at Kersaint Park, La Bonne Intention, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on Sunday, was on Thursday arraigned before Sparendaam Magistrate Rushell Liverpool on two counts of discharging a loaded firearm.

The 49-year-old Ali has been charged with discharging a loaded firearm with intent committed on Anil Persaud and Reygon Gonzales on March 13, 2022. He has pleaded not guilty to both charges.

Ali has been placed on bail in the sum of $100,000 on each charge, and the matter has been postponed to March 20, 2022.

It has been reported that on the day in question, at about 16:00h, the two horse cart operators had gone to an empty lot which is situated close to the suspect’s home to cut grass for their animals.

Upon seeing this, the suspect allegedly discharged a loaded 9mm pistol belonging to the Guyana Revenue Authority in the direction of the two men.

As a result, one of the men received injuries to his right leg, while the other sustained injuries to his right foot.

Charged: David Ali

After the shooting incident, both of the victims were taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital by Police, where they were admitted and underwent surgery.

The suspect was subsequently contacted, and he handed over his licensed 9mm pistol with 12 matching rounds in the magazine. He was told of the offence and cautioned, but he has since accused one of the men of attempting to enter his yard, and has said that in retaliation he discharged the firearm in the air and then in the direction of the men.

Charges were subsequently instituted.

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24 NEWS “Soldier Man” gets 12-year prison sentence for mall owner’s killing FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

… “My life, my dreams, they were all shattered” – victim’s daughter

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hirty-nine-yearold Lennox “Soldier Man” Roberts, who admitted to fatally shooting 48-year-old mall owner Ganesh Ramlall, has been sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment.

The sentence was imposed on the former Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) resident

by Demerara High Court Justice Simone MorrisRamlall on Thursday.

Roberts, called ‘Robby’, was charged with the businessman’s murder jointly with Fazeel Bacchus, 25, of Cornelia Ida, West Coast Demerara (WCD) and Kurt ‘Banana Man’ Erskine, 39, formerly of Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Bacchus was also used as a witness for the state.

Roberts and Bacchus, who were represented by Attorneys-at-Law George Thomas and Mark Conway respectively, opted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter. Erskine, who was represented by Attorney-at-Law Lyndon Amsterdam, was tried, and was last week found guilty by a jury of Ganesh Ramlall’s murder.

Sentencing for Erksine has been deferred until March 28, in order to facilitate the presentation of a probation report and a victim impact statement.

Bacchus, on the other hand, has been handed a sixyear prison term. He was,

however, released on time served, as his prison sentence was fully served by the time he had spent in pretrial custody.

Ganesh Ramlall, a father of one, who was the owner of the popular Regent Multiplex Mall at Regent Street, Georgetown, was shot eight times about his body, including once to his head, at around 00:10h on July 5, 2015 at his La Jalousie, WCD home.

Reports are that the businessman had just returned home from a barbeque with friends when he proceeded to use an outdoor bathroom on his premises. But as he walked into his yard, he was pounced upon by four men, who opened fire on him.

His wife raised an alarm, and neighbours fired shots at the bandits, but the men managed to escape with his jewellery and wallet.

Ganesh Ramlall was rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

His relatives quickly posted a $5 million reward for anyone with information on his killers. Shortly after, Police raided a house in Craig, EBD, where Bacchus and Roberts, along with several others, were arrested.

When interrogated, the two men confessed to murdering the business owner.

They later implicated Erskine. It was reported that the men had hatched a

plot to rob Ganesh Ramlall two months prior to his demise.

Life, dreams shattered

In an emotional statement to the court, Ganesh Ramlall’s daughter, Sharmila Ramlall, expressed that the death of her father, whom she described as her “best friend” and a “gem”, has shattered her life and dreams.

“My life, my dreams, they were all shattered. My father was my everything.

He was my best friend, my shoulder, my strength, my biggest supporter. For as long as I can remember myself, my father was holding my hand or fetching,” she said.

Losing a parent, she revealed, has always been her nightmare as a young child growing up. She added that she now knows that, even then, the fear only gave her a glimpse of the pain.

According to her, losing a parent is something you can only understand if you have lost one, “let alone having them snatched from you”.

The young woman told the court that she cannot begin to explain the emotional trauma she has experienced from losing her “perfect person”.

Haunts my thoughts She added, “Yes, I have taken therapy, and I am still in therapy. The sad thing, though, is that my father,

around whom my world revolved, being murdered isn't something I can come to terms with. It pains the core of my being to know how life was snatched from him.

I hurt for him, because he worked so hard and he was such a good person.

“My father didn't just die; he was murdered cold-bloodedly and very cruelly.

The terror of my father's screams, the sound of the bullets while being locked in a room haunts my thoughts ever so often. Seeing my father in blood torments my mind daily. There has not been a proper sense of happiness or peace since July 5th, 2015.”

She noted that the persons who killed her father have no value for life, and no remorse for the life they took. Despite being hundreds of miles away, Sharmila Ramlall disclosed, she is constantly jittery in fear, restless at the onset of night when she is not in her home, and paranoid about her security.

“Fireworks terrify me. I stayed away from my family for years because home now terrifies me. I feel like I am imprisoned. Emotional torment wasn't even half of the overturn. I had always wanted to become a doctor specialising in cardiothoracic surgery. All of my life, my parents and I prepared so happily for it.”

She continued: “My father was the head of our home.

I always said if there were a hundred parts to a family, my dad would be 98 and my mother and I one each.

His presence, his being, was so magnanimous, loving and compassionate. Family meant everything; he took all the burdens of the business and finances.

“I do not know how to live or trust. I need everyone to understand that my fath-

Convicted murderer Lennox “Soldier Man” Roberts

Murdered businessman Ganesh Ramlall

er's life was valued. He was an asset. I need the peace of knowing the perpetrators are being punished as I have been. I should have never lost my father, my person.

ones.

The High Court Judge also noted the inconsistency regarding Roberts’s expression of remorse in the probation report, in which he proclaimed his innocence, but in court he begged for forgiveness. Roberts, in the probation report, claimed that he was influenced by friends. But considering his mature age at the time, Justice Morris-Ramlall said that society expected him to be responsible.

Although he was not at the scene of the crime, the Judge regarded Roberts as a principal participant, since he was involved in the plan to rob the businessman.

Having weighed the aggravating and mitigating circumstances, Justice Morris-Ramlall held that an appropriate sentence for the offender is 18 years in prison.

From the 18-year sentence, Roberts was given a one-third deduction, amounting to six years, for his early guilty plea. In the end, he was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment, less the time he has already spent in pre-trial custody.

“I’m very sorry”

“I learn from my mistake; I’m very sorry,” a crying Roberts said as he pleaded with the court for mercy and forgiveness.

His lawyer, George Thomas, informed that his client has attended anger management classes provided by the Prison Service, and is gainfully employed as a barber.

The Prosecutor, Attorney-at-Law Narissa Leander, while highlighting that the businessman’s killing was senseless, urged the court to impose a sentence that reflects the serious nature of the crime, and serve as a deterrent to like-minded persons.

For her part, Justice Morris-Ramall outlined that in calculating an appropriate sentence for the confessed killer, she considered the gravity of the offence and the impact the man’s untimely death has had on his family and other loved

NEWS

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Guyana Prison Service kick-starts “Fresh Start” initiative

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imed at reducing recidivism and supporting the reintegration of prisoners into society, the Home Affairs Ministry has kickstarted its “Fresh Start” initiative under the auspices of the Guyana Prison Service.

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn handed over the first package to former female inmate Kristy Griffith, a cosmetologist by profession. The package consisted of tools and products to enable her to provide nail art, facials, manicure and pedicure services, and a variety of hair services at her Station Street salon.

Benn said the gesture was part of the holistic approach to rehabilitation for inmates when they leave the prison system. He further indicated that the pro-

gramme was also designed to address the criminogenic needs of offenders, who upon successful completion of the rehabilitative pathways will be well equipped for their reintegration as law-abiding and productive members of society.

Technical Officer of the Strategic Management Department within the Guyana Prison Service, Corbin-Cameron said the “Fresh Start” initiative was the brainchild of the Minister. She noted that the aim of this initiative was to promote prisoners’ rehabilitation and their successful reintegration into society by aiding them to be marketable and capable of being productive citizens of Guyana.

In an invited comment, Head of Welfare

(From left) Permanent Secretary (PS) in the Home Affairs Ministry, Mae Toussaint Jr Thomas, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn with Thalia Griffith; Kristy Griffith; Director of Prisons (ag) Nicklon Elliot; Head of Welfare and Corrections, Marielle Bristol-Grant, and Technical Officers of the Strategic Management Department, Corbin-Cameron and Afelete Cummings Dejonge

and Corrections, Marielle Bristol-Grant said that effective rehabilitation was critical to any effort to reduce reoffending by prisoners after their release.

“This initiative gives people who genuinely want to improve their lives a chance to do so by providing tool kits in various training areas – making them job-ready upon

release. With these tools, they are better equipped to overcome some of the obstacles that hinder their prospects for employment and job creation upon release

and set them on a path to becoming responsible citizens,” Bristol emphasised.

She also stated that there was an oversight committee aimed at reviewing all “Fresh Start” applications, verifying the area of operation and monitoring the progress of the successful applicants.

Griffith was considered for the “Fresh Start Toolkit” based on a number of qualifying criteria while in prison, which included participation in training programmes, conduct reviews, family support, and a post-release plan.

Griffith, a mother of five, thanked the Ministry and Guyana Prison Service for their support upon her release and gave her contact number as 665-5543, for appointments.

26 NEWS

FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Lifesaving brain surgery gives cop new lease of life

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uyana marked a major milestone with the completion of its second brain Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) removal surgery – which has now left a Police Corporal almost free of the disease.

An AVM is a tangle of abnormal blood vessels connecting arteries and veins in the brain, which causes conditions that can damage brain cells, eventually leading to seizures.

Amit Bacchus, a 35-yearold Police Corporal, underwent the $6 million surgery to remove a large AVM at the Woodlands Hospital.

Bacchus was initially evaluated on November 9, 2019, after he experienced seizures

and vomiting. He had suffered an assault to the head a few years ago which resulted in the symptoms.

His diagnosis was confirmed following a CT scan and a Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA). The Policeman was subsequently evaluated by neurosurgeon Dr Amarnauth Dukhi, who recommended minimally invasive endovascular embolisation treatment.

The surgery was conducted on January 25, 2022, by Dr Dukhi with the assistance of foreign professionals and a team from the Woodlands Hospital.

At a press briefing on Thursday, Dr Dukhi revealed

that he decided to perform the surgery even though there was a high risk of Bacchus losing his life on the operating table.

“A grade 5, an extremely large AVM – when we talk about a grade 5 AVM, we think of that in the border of non-operable, not being able to correct surgically, which are categorised as the grade 6, so this grade 5 he had was bordering the grade 6.

“We decided to operate on him because the risk of him dying from a bleed is extremely high with such a large brain AVM,” Dr Dukhi stated.

With this minimally invasive surgery, about 70 to 75 per cent of the AVM has been

Dr Amarnauth Dukhi along with Amit Bacchus and his wife and a team member on Thursday

removed – giving Bacchus a better chance at survival.

“That procedure by itself is extremely delicate, so what you do in this minimally invasive is canalise a vessel in his thigh that takes a small plastic catheter straight to his brain and we send it straight to his brain and we’re seeing on the computer in the catheterisation lab when you locate the AVM, then you could see,” Dr Dukhi said.

“Locating it we saw an extremely large AVM. Now we organised to use something that you call onyx, Onyx is a first-line treatment formulisation of AVM, it’s a liquid embolic agent that closes off vessels and through that vessel that was canalized we send that tube up to the brain.”

However, that was not the

end of the surgery according to Dr Dukhi, who said that “as we glued some of those vessels, we realise the number of vessels and the angle they were in, we would have been able to prevent the closure of normal vessels…and the first time in Guyana, we had to use something you call a brain flow diverter.

“We had to put a temporary catheter in the brain to redivert the normal flow away from the AVM,” he added.

The doctor said that they were hoping to remove the remaining portion of the AVM within the next three to six months.

Bacchus recalled that before surgery he was not able to complete simple tasks such as riding a bike, but now with the surgery, he is back on his

feet.

He extended gratitude to all the donors who helped to fund the surgery.

“Thank you to all, I would like to thank God Almighty for seeing me through this surgery, as Dr Dukhi said I had a lot of risk in this surgery. I thank Dr Dukhi and the team at Woodlands Hospital for this surgery as well and for being successful, I would like to thank my beautiful wife who see me through the surgery, I would like to thank the Guyana Police who supported me through this surgery.”

“Since I finished this surgery about a month now, by God’s grace, I’m not just a 100 but I’m a 110 per cent, things that I couldn’t do normally I could do normally now,” the man added.

NEWS

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FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Millers agree to increase paddy price Recklessness during Phagwah celebrations can to Essequibo rice farmers by $200/bag cause increased COVID cases – Dr Anthony

Rice farmers at the meeting on Thursday

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griculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Thursday met with rice farmers in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) to address their concerns in respect to paddy prices, and during that engagement, he announced that they would get an increase of $200 for a bag of paddy.

Minister Mustapha’s meeting with the farmers was held at the Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School (ARMS), where he told rice farmers that after a few hours of negotiation with the millers, he had gotten them to agree to a price increase.

"The Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has spoken with millers on the Essequibo Coast, who agreed they will pay $3700 per bag, instead of $3500 per bag," he announced.

One such miller is Nazeemul Hakh, owner of Golden Fleece Rice Investment, who is willing to pay $3700 for a bag of Grade ‘A’ paddy. Hahk also agreed to charge $100 less for the harvesting of paddy with the use of his combines.

Minister Mustapha, however, hastened to explain that there are certain things that are beyond Government’s control, and he made reference to an increase in price for fertilizer as one such thing.

Meanwhile, several farmers have complained that they are somewhat dissatisfied with the price given for a bag of paddy, since it is quite costly to cultivate rice.

However, responding to their concerns, Minister Mustapha has said the Agriculture Ministry is constantly engaging suppliers to

reduce the cost of fertilizer, so that farmers can have more money in their pockets.

On Tuesday, scores of rice farmers on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) staged a picketing exercise at the Anna Regina High Bridge, calling for better prices for their paddy. This comes days after farmers in Region Six had taken to the streets to also call for millers to pay more per tonnage for paddy.

One of the farmers on the protest line related that his crop is being harvested, and as such he is expecting that the Rice Producers Association (RPA) and the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) would ensure that fair prices are offered.

The rice farmers protesting in the township of Anna Regina are demanding that the price for paddy return to what it was.

“They offering $3400 for a bag of paddy, then check the price for fertilizer, raised from $5000 to $10,600 per bag, and now the rice millers want to pay us lil and nothing for our products… The price for everything needed to grow and harvest our crop has skyrocketed also…this won’t pay off,” another rice farmer said during an interview with Guyana Times.

APA calls for more support for Warrau Venezuelan migrants

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he Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) has called on the relevant authorities to provide increased humanitarian support to the Warrau migrants from Venezuela who recently entered the Kabakaburi community of Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

The APA in a statement called for the respected authorities to address the needs of the Warrau migrants from Venezuela as they are Indigenous people with human rights who continue to seek betterment in Guyana.

“Our call follows the recent influx of migrants experienced by the Region Two community of Kabakaburi and their forced relocation that followed just days after, even though the Indigenous community began to support and have since indicated their willingness to support them,” the statement read.

According to the APA, the migrants reportedly paddled for 8 to 10 days before arriving in Kabakaburi, where it was evident that they lacked food, clothing, and in some cases, medical attention.

The APA said that “their decision to undertake such a lengthy and dangerous journey speaks to the desperation of people whose lives are severely impacted by the ongoing economic crisis in Venezuela and the COVID-19 pandemic”.

It added that giv-

en the influx of migrants, the camp in Khan Hill, Mabaruma District, where these Warrau families have settled has become overwhelmed which could likely increase the transmission of diseases among the population, including the transmission of the COVID-19 virus as the pandemic is still ongoing.

“The APA understands that the camp in Khan Hill, Mabaruma District, where these Warrau families have settled has become overwhelmed. As we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, such living conditions will only increase the likelihood of diseases’ transmission among the population, including COVID-19,” the statement read.

The APA noted that owing to the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, there was a need for better coordination that facilitated short-, medium-, and long-term responses to provide aid to Indigenous people seeking refuge in Guyana.

“As an Indigenous rights-based organisation, we believe that Indigenous Peoples seeking refuge in Guyana from the ongoing crisis in Venezuela must be given support specific to their needs. Better coordination is needed to include short-, medium-, and longterm responses. Guyana has a commitment under international conventions to provide humanitarian support.”

Several of the migrants,

according to the APA, who were relocated remain in contact with residents of Kabakaburi and continue to call, begging to return for an opportunity to improve their living conditions.

There are pregnant women, children, and the elderly who are all caught in this crisis, the APA revealed.

As such, it said that the Government should support Village Councils and villages that extend humanitarian aid.

“As a nation, Guyana must ensure that relevant and effective support is provided to all who are seeking it and to all who are lending support,” the statement said.

The APA noted that the Warrau tribe is a part of the demographics of Guyana and Venezuela and that only an international boundary separates the families.

It was revealed last year by the United Nations (UN) that an estimated 24,500 refugees and migrants from Venezuela are living in Guyana, including some 2500 Warrau. The UN stated that some have settled in hard-to-reach areas near the Venezuelan border and others in or around the towns of Mabaruma and Port Kaituma.

Since early 2020, some 250 Warraus also found refuge in Anabisi in northern Guyana. More than half of this group are children, according to the UN.

– 6 new cases reported in 24h

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD MARCH 17, 2022 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

6

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

14 138 5

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

11

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

34,084

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

29,091

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

63,175

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

61,792

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED FULLY IMMUNISED

REGION 1

2518

REGION 2

2487

REGION 3

8045

REGION 4

31,231

REGION 5

2376

REGION 6

5732

REGION 7

2422

REGION 8

887

REGION 9

4012

REGION 10

3465

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE SAFE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Wear a face mask.

436,452 333,910

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020

1226

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

Wash your hands or use handsanitizer If you have any symptoms, call the COVID-19 Hotline.

GET MEDICAL ADVICE ON COVID-19 FROM MOH 24/7 HOTLINE NUMBERS: 2311166; 226 7480; 624 6674; 624 2819; 624 3067 OR 180/181.

H

ealth Minister Dr Frank Anthony has underscored that while persons are disappointed with the effects of COVID-19 on celebrations, they need to ensure that Phagwah is celebrated in a safe manner.

He pointed out that the relaxation of safety measures on reckless behaviour can cause infections to climb.

“I think everybody should understand that we still have cases of COVID in Guyana. If we don’t take protective measures, then we can have an increase in these cases. I know that people have been frustrated because they weren’t able to enjoy the national holidays as they’re accustomed to, but we also have to be cautious,” he warned.

“If we want to have a sustained recovery and way of reopening, then we still have to be cautious.

I know (that) when people celebrate Phagwah, you’re in very close proximity with each other, and so forth. I would still want to urge that they do so in a responsible manner,” he added.

New statistics released by the Ministry have shown that six new cases were detected within the past 24 hours, but deaths

have remained at 1226.

Confirmed cases have reached 63,175.

A total of 14 patients are in institutional isolation, 138 are in home isolation, and 11 are in institutional quarantine. Of the 29,091 males and 34,084 females who had contracted the virus, 61,792 have recovered.

Some 557,731 COVID-19 tests have been administered since the virus was detected here.

There are 157 active cases, of which 19 are in hospital. There are 13 persons at the Infectious Diseases Hospital.

Five persons are in the Intensive Care Unit. A majority of persons hospitalised are unvaccinated against COVID-19.

“We continue to provide care at our various institutions. However, what we notice is that persons coming into the hospital, most of them are unvaccinated. It would be very helpful if persons can still go out and get their vaccination, because it would prevent them from getting the more severe form of the COVID-19 disease,” the Health Minister has said.

Vaccination statistics show that 436,886 adults, or 85.2 per cent of the adult population, are im-

munised with a first dose of the COVID vaccine.

Second doses account for 334,537 persons, or 65.2 per cent of the adult population.

In the adolescent category, 34,144 first doses, equivalent to 46.8 per cent of that demographic, and 24,780 second doses, equivalent to 34 per cent thereof, have been administered. Some 55,722 persons have taken their booster shots.

“By now, a lot of people would have exceeded the five-month interval between their last dose and this booster dose. There are lots of people who are eligible. We want to encourage them to come and get their booster shots,” Dr Anthony has said.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or need any additional information, they are asked to contact the COVID-19 Hotline: 231-1166, 2267480, or 624-6674 immediately, or visit us at www. health.gov.gy.

Globally, almost 458.4 million people have tested positive for the virus, and six million have died. In the Americas, more than 149 confirmed cases have been reported, with over 2.66 million deaths.

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FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Phagwah transcends religious boundaries, Holi demonstrates social cohesion forges harmony among Guyanese – PPP is an achievable goal – PNCR

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he People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend Phagwah greetings to all Guyanese, especially the Hindu community.

Phagwah is a festival that has truly become national and one that is most anticipated having transcended religious boundaries.

This is manifested through the participation of a wide cross-section of Guyanese throughout the country.

The kaleidoscope of colours that exemplify the celebrations, heralds the dawn of spring, reminding not only of nature’s beauty but the vibrancy of our rich diversity.

The fun and frolic that have come to be associated with it remain a catalyst for the forging harmony among all of our people.

As Guyanese celebrate the PPP urges that we be inspired by the significance of Phagwah, through its pertinent messages.

The courage, determination, and sacrifice of young Prahalad and the triumph of Lord Vishnu, which speaks to the triumph of good over evil is even relevant on reflection of how our country and people navigated and overcame various challenges.

Despite the removal of the COVID-19 restrictions, we urge all to act with the greatest sense of responsibility during celebrations.

Let us be motivated by what this colourful festival signifies and be emboldened in hope that, through resoluteness in the face of adversity and despondency, the messages of Phagwah speaks to truth inevitably prevailing.

As Guyanese mark the occasion, our Party once again extends best wishes and urges caution, tolerance, and respect in the celebrations.

Shubh Holi to all!

Enjoy the rich elements of this colourful festival – GOGEC urges

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he President Mr. Manniram Prashad and the Board of Directors of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy ChamberGOGEC extend Holi greetings to all Guyanese, especially to those of the Hindu community on this occasion of the festival of colors celebrating the arrival of spring.

Holi celebrations commence on Basant Panchmi

which is the fifth day of the bright half of the Hindu month. During a period of forty days from Basant Panchmi to Holika Dahan, melodies of chowtaal can be heard from Hindu temples and homes. Significant is its underlying message by the story of Prahalad, which continues to be an inspiration for the advancement of humanity.

Phagwah is embraced by all Guyanese which is just another expression of our diversity. We urge all Guyanese to participate in this colorful festival and enjoy the rich elements of this religion.

Best wishes and we urge everyone to be safe and respect this occasion.

Shubh Holi to all!

Phagwah adds to rich cultural tapestry of Guyana – GAWU

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t this time, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) extends to the Hindu communities and Guyanese at large sincere greetings on the occasion of Phagwah 2022. The festival which is among our country’s most colourful is embraced

by Guyanese from all walks of life. It is yet another observance that adds to the rich cultural tapestry of our beloved nation and multi-cultural society.

The story of Phagwah or Holi is one now that is fairly well-known among Guyanese. It speaks of the devoutness of Prahalad and the intrigues formed against him. It is yet another reminder of the triumph of good over

evil and despite adversities and challenges, our perseverance will bring us to our ultimate goals. Holi also signifies the generation of nature, the fertility of the land, and the bountiful harvest which it provides to mankind.

Phagwah’s social and cultural significance can be seen in the way that it has broken down the barriers of separation, suspicion, and insecurity in society. It is a festival of social cohesion that enriches the country’s multicultural character.

GAWU realizes that the messages of unity, goodwill and optimism exchanged during such Festivals as Christmas, Mashramani, Eid and Phagwah are positive contributions to instill hope

and productive relationships between our people and build strong foundations for our future generations. In this regard, we feel that discriminating practices, whatever their form and a callous attitude to sections of the population will not serve to promote a national environment of trust, confidence and genuine togetherness so vital to peace and a healthy economy.

May the understanding associated by Festivals like Holi lead to a united and better country where our people of different faiths will take pride in our progress and developments knowing that a secure future is the aspiration we all cherish.

Happy Holi 2022 from GAWU!

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oday, the People National Congress Reform has the distinct pleasure on this happy, festive and auspicious occasion of extending Happy Holi Greetings to all Guyanese.

Specifically, we join with our Hindu brothers and sisters in celebrating this festival of happiness, colours, laughter, and joy.

Holi, the festival of colours, is celebrated each year with zeal and enthusiasm in the Hindu month, Phalgun. Over the years, this spring festival has been embraced by persons of all walks of life, as it ushers in the Hindu New Year. With the overflow of positive energy, people come together in fellowship to celebrate this festival.

The festival known as Holi and Phagwah marks the beginning of spring. It is an opportunity to celebrate new beginnings and new endeavours.

We are hopeful that the festival of colours will serve to bring renewed energy and optimism to all Guyanese.

For celebrants, when 'abeer' and 'abrack' are applied, everything looks the same. Similarly, when we apply the paint of love

to the mind, all differences disappear. This helps to foster this sense of oneness and forge unity amongst our people.

As we celebrate life, the opportunity for renewal, we cannot ignore the difficulties brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. Let us remain thankful for life and use this occasion to recommit to love, unity, generosity, compassion and tolerance.

The significance of Phagwah is two-fold. Its secular significance lies in the advent of the season of spring and its real and symbolic implications of revival, rebirth, renewal, restoration and redemption.

There is also a solemn religious significance. It marks the destruction of evil in the embodiment of Holika and the triumph of the forces of good.

Additionally, the religious significance of Holi lies in the conquest of good over evil, manifested by the destruction by Prahalada of his demonic father, King Hiranyakashipu.

Guyana's diverse multi-cultural society and the spirit of tolerance and harmony has been the essence of our Guyanese

cultures and civilization. Holi celebrations demonstrate that social cohesion is an achievable goal.

Holi also reminds us about the greatness of faith and hope. Prahlada sat on the lap of Holika, but the fire could not harm him. That was due to the unshakeable faith Prahlada had in God. We must seek inspiration as we chart a way forward to bring Guyanese together.

Guyana is fortunate to be a multi-religious, multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country. Our diversity is our greatest asset.

As we join in this celebration, let us do so in a respectable manner. As the celebrated Indian national, K. Vani wrote many years ago, “… festivals are gatherings for refreshing the spirit and enjoying life.”

We, therefore, urge all Guyanese to use this occasion to refresh their spirit and enjoy life and to participate fully in this colorful festival and enjoy the rich elements of our religious and cultural diversity.

To my fellow Guyanese, have a safe and Happy Holi!

Namaste!

Phagwah is a festival that encourages Love and Unity – GHDS

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s we celebrate Phagwah, Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha extends joyous and blissful Phagwah greetings to all Guyanese. As Guyanese look forward to celebrating this loved festival after a two-year hiatus, we urge that celebrations be respectful and in line with its deeper religious meaning.

This Hindu festival which is widely celebrated occurs annually in the Hindu Month of Phalgun and has a spiritual dimension that encourages devotion and implicit faith in Bhagwan, and reminds us to let our divine qualities emerge in the face of every situation.

As Hindus attend mandirs on Phagwah Day and Holika Dahan, the messages about the story of Prahalad reminds us to always stand on the side of righteousness and divest ourselves of negative energies, tendencies and qualities that impede our spiritual connection and growth, and act as barriers to togetherness.

Phagwah is an ancient Hindu festival on our national calendar which has been embraced by Guyanese and its

messages resonates with all people; the triumph of good over evil and removal of all negativities and vices, equality and brotherhood, the promotion of love and unity. It is a unifying and inclusive festival that encourages people of all walks of life to participate and celebrate in togetherness.

This festival which heralds the advent of the season of spring is resplendent with the colours of nature’s blooms, as celebrants smear each other with vivid hues. It reminds us of the concept of “Vasudhaiv Kutumbakham”; the world is one family. Proletariat in nature, the festival removes all barriers and differences, as covered in colour people are unrecognizable emphasizing that there should be no differences on this day.

Holi comes from the Sanskrit word “hola’ meaning grains, reminding us of the festival’s linkage to agriculture and a bountiful harvest. It also precedes the Hindu New Year.

Phagwah is a beautiful festival and we must capture the essence of the celebration by fostering love, understanding,

unity, harmony, steadfastness, fearlessness and righteousness as we engage in the gaiety and festivities this festival brings.

As you enjoy the festival and all of its dimensions today, we urge that the land be converted into a spiritual garden from which we must imbibe positive and good vibes. There must be no primitive behavior nor any disrespect on this day, rather we must embrace each other in the spirit of friendship, colouring each other to illustrate the splendor of nature.

As Prahalad did, let us always fight against injustice and unrighteousness so that all people can prosper in love, peace and unity.

Holi Utsav will be hosted by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha today at the EVEREST CRICKET CLUB GROUND. Gates open at 4:00pm and admission is free. Come and enjoy chowtaal, songs and dances representing the festival of Phagwah. No alcohol allowed.

All are invited!

Holi ke Shubh Kaamnaye from the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha to all!

which defines who we are as a people. It represents an achievement stemming from a combination of efforts as we endeavour together to be one people.

The fun and frolic associated with Phagwah, or Holi, is more than celebratory. It also serves to bring together Guyanese from all walks of life. The Commission urges all to celebrate and internalise the significance of Holi. Significant in its underlying message is the triumph of good over evil for the progress of humanity, as the story of young Prahalad illustrates in the Hindu scriptures.

Phagwah is also indicative of how, as a nation, we embrace our cultural diversity. That therefore offers relevant lessons for us all, and is an impetus for increased and sustained efforts to build upon our unified strengths and improve on weaknesses. Such national occasions allow for improvement of our capacity to overcome inherent challenges in order to foster togetherness.

The Commission encourages everyone to observe Phagwah, while remembering the recurring theme of its messages.

Phagwah is a time of great joy, signals new beginnings – AFC Phagwah shows our cultural diversity - ERC

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he Alliance For Change extends joyous greetings to all Guyanese, especially our Hindu Brothers and Sisters on the auspicious and revered celebration of Phagwah or Holi. This is a time of great joy, the signal of new beginnings and of a brighter world.

As we celebrate with our friends and family and those around us, let us remain mindful that COVID 19 has not been eliminated. Let us also pause to reflect on the

story of Holi and its relevance to our lives even today.

The story of Holi is one of arrogance and power, of treachery and betrayal and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It tells us of a ruler so powerful and arrogant that he would destroy anyone who did not obey his every command. He was even prepared to kill his own son. It is a story of betrayal. The boy’s aunt lured him into a blazing fire and sat him in her lap believing that she had special

protection and would not be harmed.

But, it is also a story of faith and the triumph of good over evil as the boy’s faith protected him and he walked out the fire unscathed.

Today, we face many of the same evils; arrogance, haughtiness, treachery, betrayal.

But let us not despair and lose hope. Let us stand strong and united to defeat evil wherever it exists. Let faith abound that better must come!

A joyous Phagwah to all!

T

he Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends Phagwah greetings to all Guyanese, especially the Hindu community at home and in the diaspora. Over time, this colourful national festival, which marks the arrival of spring, has been greeted with participation by Guyanese from other ethnic groups, who evidently discard religious and cultural barriers.

The burst of colours is seen in the towns and villages during this joyous occasion, but for our young nation, it exhibits the vibrant mix of our rich diversity,

FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022

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Berbice cyclists battling for supremacy in New Amsterdam today T

op riders in Berbice will assemble in New Home, the Jerrick Funeral Home, the Dexter Funeral Home, Amsterdam today, Friday March 18, for the the Suresh Business Complex and Big G Lumberyard are Flying Ace-organized cycle race. This circuit among the sponsors who have come on board this event. race, which will pedal off from 13:00h, is open to cyAccording to Flying Ace Cycling Coach Randolph clists only from Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Roberts, this race has been given the green light by the Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

COVID-19 Task Force, and the likes of Romello Crawford, Cyclists will assemble in front of the Rainbow Andre 'Padlock' Green and Mario Washington will be battling Beer Garden on Republic Road and Charles for supremacy.

Place, and race towards Coburg Street, into During the last race, which was held on Sunday last in Main Street, and through Stanleytown onto Region Three, Padlock got the better of his fellow Berbician the Tacama Turn at Republic Road for a toRomello Crawford in a sprint which saw Jamual John comtal of 10 laps. ing out on top.

Prizes would be awarded to the first This race will serve as another showdown for Padlock and four finishers in the senior category, the Crawford, both of whom are recognized wheelsmen in Guyana. first three veterans, and the top junior ridRegion five's Junior Niles is also expected to continue his form, after placing in er. Eight sprint prizes would be up for the top three among veterans in last grabs.

Sunday's race in Region Three.

This race is in colAdditionally, the Cheddi Jagan laboration with the Memorial Race is set to be held on Sunday in Region Three, as Mashramani celebrations Romello Crawford is one of the finest riders in Berbice, and in New Amsterdam, while against its customary venue he is the current National Champion (Brandon Corlette photo) Region Six. the Arokium Funeral

Junior Niles and Andre 'Padlock' Green will be among the big guns in contention (Brandon Corlette photo)

Juventus star Locatelli suffers COVID-19 blow after Champions League exit -could miss Italy play-off

J

uventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli has tested positive for COVID-19, delivering a blow to the Serie A club and the Italy national team.

The 24-year-old is set to miss the Serie A clash with Salernitana on Sunday, and, depending on his recov-

ery, he could also be a doubt for next week’s World Cup qualifying play-off against North Macedonia.

The test outcome was revealed on Thursday, a day after Locatelli played 83 minutes as Juventus lost 3-0 to Villarreal and tumbled out of the Champions League.

Juventus said in a statement: “Juventus

Football Club announces that Manuel Locatelli’s COVID-19 positivity emerged today. The player, in agreement with the local health authority, has already been placed in solitary confinement.”

The Turin giants suffered a huge disappointment with their European exit, conceding three times in the final 12 minutes –

twice after Locatelli was replaced – to be denied a place in the quarter-finals.

Juventus sit fourth in Serie A, and remain in with an outside chance of challenging for the Scudetto, sitting seven points behind leaders Milan with nine rounds of games remaining.

News of Locatelli’s positive test is bound to concern

Italy boss Roberto Mancini, as he finalises plans for the Azzurri’s upcoming quest to reach Qatar 2022.

The European champions are due to face North Macedonia on March 24 in Palermo, with the winner of that game going forward to a March 29 tussle against Portugal or Turkey, to decide who goes to the finals.

(Sportsmax)

Dinwiddie buzzer-beater US WNBA All-Star Griner’s detention in Russia extended – TASS bounces Brooklyn

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pencer Dinwiddie delivered the buzzer-beating dagger in the Dallas Mavericks’ 113111 win on the road against the Brooklyn Nets.

In a game with First Team All-NBA stars Luka Doncic and Kevin Durant going head-to-head, Dinwiddie hit the most important shot of the night as defenders rushed to trap Doncic with just seconds remaining, as the Mavericks trailed 110111.

The game only required Dinwiddie’s heroics, after a string of late-game shot-making saw the lead seesaw.

After a Dirk Nowitzkiesque mid-range fadeaway from Doncic to grab a 110108 lead, Durant took matters into his own hands.

Facing a defence that was game-planned to get the

ball out of Durant’s hands by sending two defenders to him whenever he had the ball, the seven-foot star was unselfish throughout the game, as he moved the ball to the open outlet pass and racked up 10 assists to go with his 23 points (8/20 shooting).

But with everything on the line, Durant was determined to live and die by his own shot-making, pulling up and draining a ridiculous long-three with two defenders closing in on him to nab a one-point lead, before Dindwiddie answered.

(Sportsmax)

S

even-times WNBA AllStar player Brittney Griner’s detention in Russia for the possession of vape cartridges containing hash oil has been extended until May 19, according to Russian news agency TASS. TASS reported that the Khimkinsky court of the Moscow region ruled to detain Griner for at least two more months.

“The court granted the pe-

tition of the investigation and extended the term of US citizen Griner’s detention until May 19,” TASS quoted the court as saying.

Ekaterina Kalugina, a member of the Public Monitoring Commission, a semi-official body with access to Russian prisons, told TASS that Griner was sharing a cell with two other women with no previous convictions, adding that Griner’s only issue was that the prison beds were too short for her 6’7” frame.

Without identifying Griner, a centre for the Phoenix Mercury, the Russian Customs Service, said earlier this month a player was detained in February after arriving at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport on a flight from New York.

TASS identified the play-

er as Griner, citing a source.

The Phoenix Mercury team, without elaborating, said: “We are aware of, and are closely monitoring, the situation with Brittney Griner in Russia.”

A scan of the player’s luggage revealed cartridges containing “liquid with hashish oil”, and a criminal case has been opened carrying a possible sentence of five to ten years in prison, the customs service has said.

It was not clear when in February Griner, who plays in Russia during the WNBA’s winter off-season, was detained.

At a joint press conference with Moldova President Maia Sandu, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the Biden administration had assigned an embassy team to work on Griner’s case. (Reuters)

30

FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

House of Majesty Golf Tournament set for Saturday at the Lusignan Golf Club

T

Eureka Giddings in action

his Saturday, 19th March 2022, the House of Majesty, previously Beacon Ministries, will host what is expected to be a very well attended stroke play golf tournament at the Lusignan Golf Club.

Under its founder and past Vice President of the LGC, Pope Emanuel London, the House of Majesty has been successfully hosting golf tournaments since 2013. Prizes in past years were among the richest annually, and this year promises to be no different.

Among this year’s prizes will be trophies for first to fourth in all three flights, longest drive, closest to the flag, and best gross. In addition to trophies, each winner would receive an umbrella and a gift bag.

Participating golfers would also receive other prizes.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided to all registered golfers and guests, compliments of the House of Majesty.

A statement from LGC Vice President Paton George has said, “The Lusignan Golf Club and its executive committee are happy with our progress this year. Building off a very successful 2021, the golf club is on track to deliver another year of value for its members and guests. The club wishes to remind everyone that our gates are always open for families to come and enjoy our relaxing atmosphere, whether they come for golf or other events, or just to enjoy the environment. Last week we celebrated the birthdays of two of our senior members, Robert Hanoman and Pandit Rabindranauth Persaud. We are happy to have this week’s

Inniss hits 112 in ESCL over-40 competition

L

Lloyd Inniss

loyd Inniss hit an impressive 115 for Queenstown Tigers against hosts Hibernia Strikers last Sunday in the continuation of the 2022 Essequibo Softball Cricket League (ESCL) over-40 20over competition in Region Two, Essequibo Coast.

But Hibernia Strikers came out victorious by two wickets. Queenstown Tigers made a challenging 211-9 from the allotment of 20 overs, while Hibernia Strikers responded with 2148 in the penultimate over.

Curtis Russell supported the pugnacious Inniss with 21, as Mohamed Fizul grabbed 2-9 from three overs.

When Hibernia Strikers batted, Gobin Chandrika led the way with 66. Dexter Grant captured two wickets for 25 runs from 1.5 overs, delivering for the Tigers.

Across at Affiance, Caribbean Cricket Club

(CCC) defeated Devonshire Castle Sports Club (DCSC) by two wickets. DCSC only made an inadequate 142-6 from the 20 overs, while CCC replied with 145-8 in the 15th over.

Former Essequibo InterCounty player Prashad Mahadeo top-score for the winners with 32, while Eshwar Singh chipped in with 27. Wayne Moore snatched 2-27 from his four overs.

In DCSC’s innings, Antonio Persaud made 71 and the experienced Basil Persaud (unrelated) scored 20. Ekie Baksh and Patrick Rooplall each collected two wickets.

And also at Hibernia facility, Ravens Sports Club (RSC) got the better of Sunriser Masters by 64 runs.

RSC rattled up a respectable 212-8 in their 20 overs, and then dismissed the Masters’ Boys for 148 in the 16th over. Veteran and prominent softball player Ramesh Narine struck 97 for RSC, while the consistent Fazeer Khan made 48.

For Sunrisers Masters, Gopaul Deen and Shivsankar Bissoon scored 29 and 26 respectively.

The competition is set to continue on Sunday with three more matches. CCC will collide with Hibernia Strikers, while Queenstown Tigers would do battle with RSC and Sunriser Masters on DCSV.

Operations Manager Simone Allen handing over cheque to President of LGC, Patangilee Persaud. At left is VP of LGC, Paton George, and at right is Archbishop Guy Griffith

House of Majesty anniversary celebration proceed last weekend’s successful birthday celebrations. Weekly tournaments are expected to follow in the weeks leading up to a full weekend of golf and entertainment at the Lusignan Golf

Club.

One of the activities the club is excited about is the launch of its youth outreach drive, chip and putt competition - details for the full list of Easter activities will be shared soon. The tournament will be

Shanella London (right) is the GTT Guyana Open female champion

a celebration of the Ministry’s 26th year of service - an organization which prides itself on uplifting troubled youths, and has a track record of reaching its goals. In the golf arena, the Beacon Ministry House of Majesty has pro-

GTTA continues rollout of programme targeting young girls

Q

u e e n s t o w n Community Centre on the Essequibo Coast was a hive of activity with tinkering table tennis balls, paddles and balloons as children from the Queenstown Primary School engaged in orientation sessions in the fundamental aspect of the game of table tennis.

Conducted by expert coach Candacy McKenzie and coordinated by Regional Sports Organizer Debbie Daniels and Sir Vishnu, the programme engaged more than 30 girls between the ages of 6 and 12 years. It came on the heels of

a recent 12-hour table tennis coaching programme for physical education teachers in the region, held in December 2021 and conducted by National Coach Linden Johnson.

In that programme, 18 coaches were trained in the ITTF 12-hour coaching programme, a project done with the collaboration of the National Sports Commission; Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; Guyana Table Tennis Association, and Regional Education Department of Region 2.

The initiative formed part of the GTTA’s developmental

strategy under the umbrella programmes of My Gender My Strength, Guyana TT “Pink Pongsters”, and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport National Sports Commission Nursery Academy, with the Future in Mind TT programme and the GTTA National Hopes Programme geared towards establishing talent identification pods across Guyana.

Coach Candacy McKenzie indicated that it was a pleasure to work with the girls.

The programme was well received, she saw a nucleus of talented student athletes, with lots of coordination and psycho-motor skills and great potential. She outlined that it is critical that these students are nurtured and trained in the fundamental and correct elements of the game on a consistent basis, with a view to realising their potential.

Similar programmes are planned for Anna Regina, Charity and Suddie in the region and across Guyana.

Stokes’s century sets up...

Jonny Bairstow crashed Jayden Seales down the ground and through the covers before holing out to deep midwicket off Joseph, and with that Stokes threw the bat again. He heaved Brathwaite over the fence at deep midwicket for his first boundary since lunch, some 13.2 overs after the resumption, and was very nearly out on the next ball, lofting Brathwaite to long-on, where Campbell spilled a tough chance while stepping on the rope. Stokes came undone going big again one ball later, this time skying Brathwaite to Brooks at long-off.

West Indies took three wickets for eight runs in the space of 14 balls, prompting Root to call his men in, six overs into the evening session. Permaul, who had come in for some tough treatment, particularly at the hands of Stokes, had Foakes and Leach stumped by

FROM PAGE 32

SCOREBOARD

ENGLAND 1ST INNINGS BATTING Alex Lees lbw b Permaul 30 Zak Crawley c †Da Silva b Seales 0 Joe Root (c) lbw b Roach 153 Dan Lawrence c Brathwaite b Holder 91 Ben Stokes c Brooks b Brathwaite 120 Jonny Bairstow c Bonner b Joseph 20 Ben Foakes †st †Da Silva b Permaul 33 Chris Woakes c Seales b Roach 41 Matthew Fisher not out 0 Jack Leach st †Da Silva b Permaul 4 Extras (b 5, lb 6, nb 3, w 1) 15 TOTAL (150.5 Ov, RR: 3.36) 507/9d Did not bat: Saqib Mahmood Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Zak Crawley, 3.1 ov), 2-80 (Alex Lees, 44.6 ov), 3-244 (Dan Lawrence, 89.5 ov), 4-373 (Joe Root, 117.1 ov), 5-410 (Jonny Bairstow, 128.3 ov), 6-424 (Ben Stokes, 129.4 ov), 7-499 (Ben Foakes, 148.4 ov), 8-503 (Chris Woakes, 149.3 ov), 9-507 (Jack Leach, 150.5 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Kemar Roach 27-5-68-2 Jayden Seales 24-4-55-1

Joshua Da Silva to bookend Woakes’ dismissal, which came after he sent Roach

Alzarri Joseph 23-1-109-1 Veerasammy Permaul 35.5-1-126-3 Jason Holder 28-4-76-1 Nkrumah Bonner 1-0-3-0 Kraigg Brathwaite 12-0-59-1 WEST INDIES 1ST INNINGS BATTING Kraigg Brathwaite (c) not out 28 John Campbell c †Foakes b Fisher 4 Shamarh Brooks not out 31 Extras (b 6, nb 2) 8 TOTAL (27 Ov, RR: 2.62) 71/1 Yet to bat: Nkrumah Bonner, Jermaine Blackwood, Jason Holder, Joshua Da Silva †, Alzarri Joseph, Kemar Roach, Veerasammy Permaul, Jayden Seales Fall of wickets: 1-14 (John Campbell, 1.2 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Chris Woakes 5-3-17-0 Matthew Fisher 5-0-18-1 Jack Leach 9-4-21-0 Ben Stokes 3-0-3-0 Saqib Mahmood 4-2-3-0 Dan Lawrence 1-0-3-0

high into the air on the leg side to be caught by Seales.

(ESPNcricinfo)

duced Guyana’s number one female golfer, Shanella London, who in 2013 became the first foreign-born female golfer to win the coveted Suriname Open Female first prize. She repeated as female champion in 2016.

The Ministry also has one of the hottest golfers and likely most improved golfer of 2022 in Eureka Giddings. Its founder, Pope Emanuel London, has also won his fair share of prizes both here and abroad since joining the Lusignan Golf Club in 2012.

Registration is open to members and non-members until noon on Friday, 18th March. The tournament will be played at two intervals to accommodate all golfers, the first set tees-off at 7:30am and the second at 12:30pm.

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

National Gymnasium upgrade nearing completion I t is just a matter of time before the National Gymnasium would not only be diversified, but the facilities there are expected to be top of the line.

Back in 2021, Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr., Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, and Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Kashif Muhammed, assessed a number of Sport facilities around the country to determine what rehabilitation work or upgrade was necessary.

The National Gymnasium was earmarked for new lights,

basketball courts, and better dorms and washroom facilities.

Now, according to Ramson Jr, works on the National Gymnasium are pretty close to completion, with the courts being the only aspect outstanding.

“The only thing that needs to be completed is the basketball court. There are some remedial works that we need to verify, just to see that it is at the level that it’s supposed to be,” Ramson Jr has shared.

The Sport Minister has listed

aspects of the rehabilitation project that have already been completed. He said, “But I can tell you what we did already. So, we completed the fence on one side, so the…area is secured, first of all. We took out all of the grass and heaps of bush and that kind of stuff that was in there. We put crusher run throughout the entire area, and then sealed it.

We installed the lights.”

He went on to add, “Those are very, very good LED lights, with the concrete 50foot poles and underground wiring. We

also executed the project for the basketball court. We brought in the basketball hoops. We also built the washroom, changing room and shower. We haven’t opened that up as yet, but it’s completed.”

In sharing that he was unable to do an inspection of the ongoing work at the Mandela Avenue location, Ramson highlighted that he would do so in the near future, since it is his responsibility as Sport Minister to ensure the standard of work is top tier.

“All that has been done, so I’m just waiting. We were supposed to check the basketball court yesterday (Saturday last), we didn’t get a chance to,” he revealed.

The Sport Minister further stated, “Ultimately, it’s the Ministry that is responsible, and I’m lead for the Ministry.

So, when it comes time to verify that it’s done to the standard that we’d like to see it be done, somebody’s got to be held accountable for that, and that’s me.”

31

Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr

FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

century sets up England’s declaration before West Indies dig in months and 23 Test innings without a ton Ben Stokes surpassed 5000 Test for Stokes and much has runs in his brilliant century happened in that time – from losing his beloved Ben Stokes made a welcome father, Ged, to a fourreturn to the ranks of Test and-a-half-month absence from centurions with a belligerent the game during which he had display against West Indies as two operations to repair a serious England set a commanding first- finger injury and took time out to innings total. manage his mental health. But It had been well over 18 once he got going on the second

morning in Barbados, it was something to behold.

He struck four sixes and 11 fours as he reached 89 off just 92 balls by lunch, having started the day on nought after Dan Lawrence fell on the last ball of the opening day.

A quieter period ensued after the interval as Kemar Roach and Jason Holder put the lid on England’s scoring for a time, but

Stokes went out swinging once more, for 120, after bringing up his 11th Test hundred with a scampered single and celebrating with his crooked-fingered salute to the heavens in memory of his dad, who died in December 2020.

Stokes’ last Test century had come against West Indies at Old Trafford in July of that year.

Meanwhile, his captain, Joe Root, was at the other end of the

Matt Fisher claimed his maiden Test wicket

pitch for the most part, during a 129-run partnership for the fourth wicket, having brought up his second consecutive Test century the evening before, his eighth in 19 Tests since the start of 2021.

Root ended up with 153 on this occasion, before leaving Stokes to carry on and then seeing a 75-run seventh-wicket stand between Chris Woakes and Ben Foakes, allowing him to declare on 507 for 9 shortly after tea.

Debutant Matthew Fisher,

Captain.

Earlier, Stokes and Root had England innings looking like London buses as they carried their side past 300. That mark had evaded them for 12 innings and more than six months, until the first Test in Antigua, when they racked up 311 and 349 for 6 declared.

Having begun the day on 244 for 3, with Root on 119, Stokes lit up the morning. He twice advanced on left-arm spinner Veerasammy

Holder and company celebrating

drafted into the squad after the Ashes debacle and handed his chance when Craig Overton fell ill on the eve of this match, struck with just his second ball in international cricket before Kraigg Brathwaite and Shamarh Brooks resisted further damage to steer West Indies to 71 for 1 at the close.

Having seen John Campbell thread his first ball to the rope through backward point, Fisher elicited a prod outside off-stump and the ball flew off the toe-end of Campbell’s bat to Foakes behind the stumps. Poignantly, as he celebrated his maiden Test wicket, Fisher raised his finger skyward in tribute to his own father, Phil, who died when his son was just 14.

Fisher thought he had his second wicket when Brooks jabbed in the direction of second slip, where Zak Crawley stooped very low to grab the ball in his fingertips, although he came up looking uncertain as to whether it had been grounded in the process and replays showed it had, confirming the not-out soft signal.

Brathwaite was then given out lbw on 14, Jack Leach skidding one into his back pack – but not before it had grazed the bat, as the DRS confirmed to reprieve West Indies’

Permaul to launch him down the ground for six in consecutive overs, bringing up his fifty in the second instance. He later muscled Permaul over the fence at midwicket before clubbing the very next ball over cover for four.

Stokes took to Alzarri Joseph in the following over with three consecutive fours, bringing up the 100-partnership with Root via a powerful drive through cover before launching him over longoff and through midwicket. But Stokes wasn’t done, passing 5000 Test runs with a mow down the ground to clear the fence by some distance.

Root passed 150 for the 12th time in his career, the most by any England batter, but then Roach, with his first ball back into the attack and the seventh after lunch, ended his stay with one that nipped back from outside off and rapped the front pad. Initially adjudged not out by umpire Nigel Duguid, the hosts reviewed and Hawk-Eye showed the ball crashing into the top of leg stump to move Roach past Sir Garry Sobers and clear into seventh on West Indies’ list of all-time wicket-takers.

TURN TO PAGE 30

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