Guyana Times -- Wednesday, July 29, 2020

Operations at Omai expected to resume after multimilliondollar deal with Canadians

P15 Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4361

THE BEACON OF TRUTH WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

UN demands “urgent” end to Guyana’s political crisis See story on page 3

Dialogue with squatter-APNU/ AFC before poll declaration will set bad precedent – Nandlall

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

6 arrested following P2 brawl over old grievance

APNU/AFC public meetings P10 defying COVID-19 rules

Page 7

Electoral coup d'état

Lincoln Lewis condemned for pushing dictatorship

Page 9

...PPP/C calls for sanctions against Lewis, others

Solid grounds to prosecute Lowenfield

See story on page 13

Fire ravages Pomeroon P14 home, arson suspected

COVID-19 P12 cases continue to increase, 7 new cases detected – active cases now stand at 195

– Christopher Ram Page 11

…says whole world witnessed actions of CEO

Komal Chand hailed as “champion of workers’ rights” in final farewell

Goldfields produces P15 57,500 ounces of gold in 2020

2 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

6 arrested following brawl over old grievance 13-year jail sentence for miner who killed drinking buddy

– APNU/AFC misrepresents to stir up race hate

P

Jenita Eastman

Ramrattie Singh

olice in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) have arrested six persons after at least three of them were injured in a scuffle at Edinburg, West Coast Demerara, on Monday.

The incident was, however, mispresented by APNU/AFC members which can undoubtedly stir up race hate among Guyanese.

Based on information received, the two women, Nazraphena Nafeiza Lette and Shanta (only name given), have sustained chops and lacerations about their bodies following the incident. Another person, Tactical Services Unit Rank Ganesh Pertab also sustained injuries to his hand after attempting to intervene.

Based on information, the incident stemmed from a prior altercation between Shanta’s son and a relative of Lette’s.

It was related that 61-yearold Shanta was heading to her job as a Security Guard at the Leonora Cottage Hospital when she was accosted by Lette and a

scuffle ensued between the two women.

This resulted in Lette sustaining injuries about her body as well as Shanta receiving lacerations to her face and back.

Pertab reportedly rushed to the aid of Lette – his daughter, and was injured in the process.

However, the story was posted by APNU/AFC supporter, Varune Mahdeo, who stated that Nazraphena Nafeiza Lette was assaulted because she was a supporter of the coalition who lives in a predominantly East Indian Village. This post was, however, shared by other APNU/AFC members including former General Manager of Guyana Chronicle, Sherod Duncan.

Nevertheless, when Guyana Times visited the village, Jenita Eastman – a neighbour to the women, related that she was inside of her home when she heard Shanta’s daughter shouting for her.

“The woman that get beat up, she daughter passing and holler and calling for me to tell

me that ‘auntie Jenny, auntie Jenny they bank me mother and they beating me mother’.

When I run out I (saw) the lady (Shanta) lying on the ground and the girls (Lette) them around,” she related.

Eastman related that she knows both of the women, since they once lived in the same yard. She added that Lette’s relative was involved in an altercation with Shanta’s son a few days prior to the incident and it is believed that is the reason the elderly woman was attacked.

She added that she was appalled when she learnt that Lette launched an attack on Shanta.

“I never expect that she would eye pass a big woman like that because we all grow in front the lady…they shouldn’t hit the woman in this kind of way because if son and brother got it out, let they trash it out because they is man. The woman is a big woman, she was going to work. The woman don’t trouble people and if is any problem is she and she children. That’s how I know she is to be,” Eastman added.

Shanta, according to Eastman, sustained injuries to her face and a back. She further related that Lette’s accusations about being assaulted because of race is one that she is not familiar with since, to her knowledge, there was no talk about race.

However, Lette’s mother, Ramrattie Singh, explained that while she is not au fait with the reasons that led to Monday’s incident, she was at

Nazraphena Nafeiza Lette

home, a few metres away, when the incident occurred.

“Yesterday (Monday) I don’t know what is the problem. I heard a noise and I go inside and put on my slippers and when I come out walking going, my husband told me to go back inside and he had on a short pants and he go and when he go he see my daughter and a girl in a scuffle. So, he tried to part them and he said y’all stop, stop this nonsense but them still continue,” she related.

Singh said 28-year-old Lette sustained injuries to her ear and hands while Pertab recieved lacerations to his hands.

Meanwhile, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) Police Commander, Simon McBean told Guyana Times that six persons have been arrested for the incident.

Four from Shanta’s end and two from Lette’s end. He noted that both parties had wounds to support their varying statements.

The investigation is still ongoing.

Jailed: Parsram Ramnauth

Dead: Daniel George

36-year-old miner was on Tuesday sentenced to 13 years’ imprisonment after he confessed to killing his drinking buddy during an argument over a cigarette on October 16, 2018.

Parsram Ramnauth, formerly of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), virtually appeared before Justice Sandil Kissoon via Zoom to answer to the charge of murder but opted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.

He admitted that on the day in question, he killed Daniel George at Barakat Backdam, Mazaruni River, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

The State was represented by Prosecutor Lisa Cave, while Ramnauth was represented by Attorney-at-Law Ravindra Mohabir.

The facts presented to the court stated that on the day in question, Ramnauth and George were imbibing when an argument erupted over cigarettes. The argument turned into a scuffle and it was then George was fatally stabbed.

A probation report, which was presented to the court, revealed that Ramnath has expressed remorse for his actions and is willing to apologise to the family of the deceased.

Justice Sandil Kissoon sentenced Ramnauth to 13 years’ imprisonment after considering his early guilty plea.

In 2007, Ramnath was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment on a charge of causing grievous bodily harm and to three years’ imprisonment in 2006 for possession of narcotics.

A

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, July 29 – 12:30h – 14:00h and Thursday, July 30 – 01:30h – 03:00h and 13:30h – 15:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, July 29 – 11:30h – 13:00h and Thursday, July 30 – 13:00h – 14:30h.

UN demands “urgent” end to Guyana’s political crisis

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times - 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily

WEATHER TODAY Expect sunshine during the day. There will be clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: South-Westerly to Southerly to East South-Easterly to Easterly to East NorthEasterly to Easterly between 1.34 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 11:58h reaching a maximum height of 2.27 metres.

Low Tide: 17:51h reaching a minimum height of 0.97 metre.

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$44.41/barrel

+0.16

Rough Rice

$205.70 /ton

-0.10

London Sugar

$362.90/ton

-0.63

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1950.70

$1951.70

Low/High

$1907.70

$1966.50

Change

-5.40

-0.28%

United Nations Resident Coordinator in Guyana, Mikiko Tanaka

U

nited Nations Resident Coordinator in Guyana, Mikiko Tanaka has once again weighed in on the current electoral crisis in the country, calling for the impasse to be brought to an end.

This time, she premised her calls on the fact that young people need political space to be heard and contribute to society.

In a tweet on Tuesday, the UN Representative said “Many young people in #Guyana are passionately engaged in #ClimateAction.

They need political space to be heard and to contribute to the betterment of the environment and society. An end to the political crisis is urgent! @UNGuyana.”

Earlier this month, Tanaka had expressed concerns over the fact that Guyana is yet to figure out an end to its elections held more than four months ago at a time when the region is facing its worst recession in the last 10 years.

She tweeted that: “as Latin American and the Caribbean face the worst recession in a century, #Guyana is still figuring out how to conclude the 2 March elections. @UNGuyana.”

Prior to that, she tweeted on June 23 that “a credible end to the elections is urgent for the elected government and parliament to fully attend to their wellbeing and resource needs to serve the people.”

The Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, on July 10, stressed the importance of announcing final official results of the March 2 General and Regional Elections to the Guyanese people “as soon as possible to end an impasse that has lasted more than four months”.

The UN Secretary General had also called on political leaders and their supporters to recognise and accept the final official results and refrain from any act or statement that may fuel tensions or incite violence.

The UN is just one of many international organisations calling for the swift conclusion of the March 2 elections, with a declaration from the recount results which show that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic

(PPP/C) won with 233,336 votes.

The David Granger-led APNU/AFC coalition lost the elections but they are refusing to concede defeat.

Instead, they are mounting court challenge after court challenge in a bid to prevent the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) from declaring the certified recount of the results.

Instead, Granger’s party wants the Elections Commission to declare the results based on the original tabulation of votes, including the fraudulent figures produced by Clairmont Mingo, the Returning Officer of the largest electoral district, Region Four.

Mingo’s figures were heavily inflated in favour of the APNU/AFC coalition – as observed by members of the international community.

In fact, it was Mingo’s production of concocted numbers that led to the undertaking of the National Recount exercise – which was agreed upon by caretaker President Granger and the Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo. It was also conducted under the auspices of the Caribbean Community – which Granger had described as the most important interlocutor in the process.

Caricom, in its report on the recount, deemed the results emanating from the process credible and asserted that it should be the basis of the declaration of the winner of the March 2 polls.

But APNU/AFC coalition refused to accept the findings and instead launched a campaign aimed at discrediting the recount activity, though it was hailed as a credible process by the internation-

GECOM CEO Keith Lowenfield

Caretaker President David Granger

al observers, local observers and nine other political parties that contested the elections.

Though GECOM’s Chairperson Justice Claudette Singh has already made a decision to declare the results of the election based on the recount figures, the Commission has not been able to do so because it's Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield, has been refusing to submit his final elections report with the recount results.

Instead, Lowenfield has submitted reports with various concocted numbers, including the previously set aside declarations by the Returning Officers including Mingo’s fraudulent figures.

Guyana’s acting Chief

Justice, Roxane George, in a case filed by an APNU/AFC supporter to block GECOM from declaring the results based on the recount figures, made it clear that the winner of the elections can only be declared using the recount results.

The coalition supporter, Misenga Jones, has since appealed the CJ’s ruling. The Court of Appeal is expected to hand down its decision on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Lowenfield has since been slapped with three private criminal charges in relation to conspiracy to commit fraud, breach of public trust and misconduct in public office.

He is expected to make his next court appearance on August 14.

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guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

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

Addressing the health crisis

T

he World Health Organisation (WHO) has urged Governments everywhere to adopt a much-more focused approach to halting the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic if they want to avoid having to impose sweeping lockdowns once again.

In the early stages of the virus, several countries, including Guyana, had announced partial or full lockdowns with the aim of eliminating the spread of the virus. Some countries were able to reopen within weeks, while others took months before they could have resumed their regular activities.

In some cases, countries which reopened were forced to reverse their decisions and had to impose lockdowns again due to a rise in infection rates as a result of persons not taking key prevention measures seriously.

Thursday, July 30, marks six months since the UN agency declared COVID-19 a public health emergency of international concern. This was the sixth time a global health emergency has been declared under the International Health Regulations.

The WHO this week announced nearly 16 million cases of reported infection worldwide and more than 640,000 deaths. At the moment, the end of the virus seems nowhere in sight and countries are grappling with finding a balance between reopening their economies and controlling the pandemic.

In Guyana’s case, the number of infections is increasing daily.

On Monday alone, there was detection of a whopping 19 new cases of the virus, thus bringing the total number of cases to 389. The figures saw a steep increase within the past three days, with eight cases on Saturday, 10 on Sunday and on Monday, 19 positive cases. This upsurge comes in the face of relaxed curfew hours, continued mining activities and wide leverage for business operations to resume.

WHO’s Head of Emergencies, Dr Mike Ryan, said it was very understandable that no country in the world that’s been through a lockdown wanted to go back there, as there were huge economic and other consequences. He explained that if you can understand the dynamics of transmission and be very precise in your disease understanding, you can be very precise in your response.

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reiterated the need for continued vigilance against the disease and the need for authorities to ramp up tracking and tracing of contacts. He warned that the pandemic continues to accelerate, noting that in the past six weeks, the total number of cases had roughly doubled.

The WHO has made it clear that remaining determined to stop the virus in its tracks is key to ending transmission, along with a willingness to make “hard choices to keep ourselves and each other safe”.

The WHO has outlined that although our world has changed, “the fundamental pillars of the response have not: political leadership, and informing, engaging and listening to communities.

Nor have the basic measures needed to suppress transmission and save lives: find, isolate, test and care for cases; and trace and quarantine their contacts.”

As stated by the UN Head, COVID-19 is menacing the whole of humanity – and so the whole of humanity must fight back.

Guyana must continue to be vigilant and ensure that all steps are followed as laid out by the WHO to prevent the further spread of the disease. Citizens also have a very important role to play in ensuring they heed the advisories being issued by the health authorities.

That said, for us in Guyana, we are in a very unfortunate situation, where it is close to five months now and the results of the national elections are yet to be declared, even though it is clear as to which party has emerged as the winner.

With many persons out of jobs, families on the brink of poverty and businesses downsizing or closing, one could only hope that the political impasse would be resolved very soon as this is a major hurdle in addressing the health crisis.

The current health crisis demands a legitimate government to be in place to get on with the task of providing relief for citizens, improving treatment and contact tracing and expanding testing.

Citizens cannot continue to suffer due to the refusal of the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) to accept defeat. The nation’s patience is running thin and the pressure must be stepped up on the coalition to demit office and allow the duly-elected Government to carry on with the business of development.

Honour Owen Arthur with declaration of election results Dear Editor, In Owen Arthur’s death, Guyana has lost a champion of free and fair elections and an avid fan and promoter of Guyanese cuisine. I never saw a person stand up so courageously against electoral bullyism and an attempt to ‘thief’ an election. We owe him a debt of gratitude. May the memory of Owen Arthur be honoured in the declaration of the election results.

When Guyana first experienced electoral fraud, Arthur was just a young man. He must have read about electoral frauds in Guyana between 1966 and 1992 and probably did not believe it could happen in such a bold-faced manner. He finally witnessed fraud in March 2020, and he condemned it aggressively and vociferously, not mincing words even in the presence of Government officials and security forces. He was deeply concerned about democratic governance in Guyana and was not going to be a party to fraud.

He was diplomatic and undiplomatic in his tone, signalling to the Government and GECOM that he was no pushover, and that he meant business. He was a small man but a giant in standing up for principles pertaining to democracy. He was not prepared to compromise his integrity in support of fraud. His credibility as an observer, Head of Commonwealth Mission, was on the line. And he was not prepared to trade it for perks or to yield to threatening and intimidation tactics.

Arthur was never really viewed by Guyanese as very friendly towards (illegal) Guyanese immigrants in Barbados when he was Prime Minister. It was largely under his tenure that many (illegal and criminally oriented) Guyanese were deported from Barbados as they were burdening the economy. Tens of thousands of Guyanese settled in Barbados going back to the height of the PNC dictatorship.

He had stated that Barbados could not handle the burden of accepting so many Guyanese who had escaped ethnic persecution (during the 1960s to 1992) and later poverty in their homeland.

He urged Guyanese to remain home and contribute to the development of their country, and he also lectured the Guyana Government to attend to their economy rather than focusing on the treatment (sent to a special bench) of Guyanese in Barbados airport. Arthur would make up for ill-feelings among Guyanese when he championed free and fair election in Guyana in 2020.

He stood tall when he condemned the

flagrant tabulation irregularities. In conversations with others, he felt the hurt of Guyanese when elements at GECOM, at the behest of the incumbent coalition, attempted to rob them of a democratically elected Government. Arthur really stood tall, as few others did, in standing up for Guyanese against the fraud.

Arthur was present several times at Cara Lodge at breakfasts, having tea, and engaging in conversations with other observers. He interacted closely with the former Prime Minister of Senegal, Aminata Toure, the Co-Chair of The Carter Center Observer Team, and several other eminent observers from around the Commonwealth, Europe, Americas and Caribbean. They spoke endlessly trading observations and comments about the fraud perpetrated by GECOM officers. They reminisced about experiences in Guyana and their encounter with Minister Karen Cummings.

There were unforgettable scenes with the Minister and with the observers interacting at Cara Lodge, Pegasus, and elsewhere. Arthur showered praises on the Commonwealth technical observers for guiding GECOM in holding a free and fair election. In appealing to GECOM to conduct a correct count, he noted that it would reflect badly on the two technical advisers (one from India and one from Ghana) if the count were to be rigged. He wished if the Chair would do the honourable thing.

I would wait around long after press conferences to listen to conversations among observers on what they think about my country and Guyanese. At times, Arthur didn’t care about what he said when interacting with colleagues outside of official press conferences. I unassumingly tried to listen in to conversations among observers about the fraud. He didn’t seem to mind my presence, perhaps viewing me as ‘friendly territory’ since I was among credible observers. He did not have pleasant things to say about our President, the Government, and the Foreign Minister.

He indicted all of them for fraud and even some in GECOM (whose names I won’t reveal). He could not believe that riggers would be so boldface about the fraud.

I overheard Owen Arthur several times excoriating Guyanese politicians for attempting to perpetrate fraud on their nation. And they did it shamelessly in the presence of observers. I also overheard him assailing the officers of GECOM when they sought to manipu-

late the vote count to declare the incumbent as the winner. He, like all observers, was appalled by the reckless and ill-advised efforts to propagate fraudulent count and he was disappointed that the Chair did not intervene to stop the fraud.

He was most courageous in speaking out against the electoral fraud of March 4 and 6 even when he was threatened with cancellation of his accreditation and deportation. I would never forget the scene where he took out his accreditation ID and handed it to our Foreign Minister. He stood tall in that exchange.

That scene will remain etched in the nation’s history. He did not care for his own safety that he traded for principles.

Arthur regretted he could not prevent the fraudulent count in Guyana. He apologised to those of us he spoke with for inability to stop the fraud. But he exposed it, and over a snack at a table at Cara Lodge, he was heard saying APNU lost and PPP won. He was overheard telling waiters “I don’t understand why APNU would not accept they lost”.

Arthur helped to make a difference in exposing fraud in Guyana and focusing media attention that makes it virtually impossible to negative the narrative that the incumbent lost.

I found Arthur to be warm and kind-hearted. He shared his meals and seemed at times to acquire lunches for others because I saw him distributing bags with food. He loved Guyanese food and spoke highly of our chowmein, dhal puri, pepper pot, curried chicken, and other cuisines. He binged on pepper pot (not heart-friendly). He was always jovial. Even when upset, as with the electoral fraud, he smiled. Though a former PM, he was down to earth and humble not like some Guyanese politicians.

I will never forget this man. Vivid images of his interactions in Guyana keep popping up in my brain. He really batted for Guyanese against electoral fraud.

The nation is grateful that he had the courage to speak the truth about what happened at GECOM. Will GECOM honour him by quickly declaring the results or do we have to continue to wait for a declaration long after he is buried?

For Arthur, GECOM is responsible for the election stalemate. GECOM should honour him with a declaration within hours of the COA ruling where the appeal is to be dismissed as expected.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Honesty, decency and integrity mean nothing now to Granger boy Dear Editor, David Ganger and his APNU/AFC cabal’s refusal to concede and their challenge to the legitimacy of the elections after losing convincingly to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic, have stunned this nation, the world and the international community. Coming from David Granger, who has preached the slogan from his printed advertisement, honesty, decency and integrity mean nothing now.

Not only did they not concede but the APNU/AFC leaders verbally and alarmingly attacked the international community and local community leaders during

their bare face and shameless outreaches trying to fool residents that they have won these elections.

The APNU/AFC leaders must be considered bullies, “wrong and strong”.

Knowing fully well that you lose but pretending to your supporters that you have won is a crime.

It is ironic also that they are using the COVID-19 $30,000 handout to bribe people to attend their meetings and outreaches, when these cheques should have been given to the community leaders for distributions.

Editor, let us remind the APNU/AFC coalition that no outreach or public meeting

can erase what is written in stone - that is, a win for the PPP/C by over 15,000 votes.

The PNCR increasingly levels accusations of trickery and illegality to explain their election loss. But the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic didn’t issue similar claims of illegitimacy when the APNU/ AFC claimed that they won the election in 2015 despite activists were being convinced of election fraud.

We have the PNCR, a party that has a long history of rigging and stealing elections whose defence is to attack everybody else, it is a strategy.

The APNU/AFC these

days present themselves as presumed “losers”. It’s almost as if they believe they have a divine right to win. So now that they lost Guyana’s 2020 General and Regional Elections, the APNU/AFC, PNCR and the PNC feel it must have been stolen from them.

David Granger and the APNU/AFC, PNCR have only themselves to blame for their failure during the five years in office. Which resulted in a People’s Progressive Party/Civic victory at the 2020 General Election, but what is most important now is what happens going forward.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

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COVID-19: an opportunity for digital transformation through regional collaboration

Dear Editor, General Secretary of the PNCR, Amna Ally in her statement on July 24 stated that “If the coalition has a programme and the coalition executes it, that is not anybody else’s business…” – yet another example of executive lawlessness.

Everyone knows the APNU/AFC big wigs head – General Secretary and Campaign Manager, Joe Harmon, Chairman and General Secretary of the PNC, Mrs Volda Lawrence and Ms Amna Ally, respectively – are in total control of the National COVID-19 Task Force.

This body has issued COVID-19 legal measures, most recently in the July 16 Official Gazette, which prohibits any form of social gathering or social activity. Under these measures, the police have been given powers to stop such gatherings.

We have witnessed the same party flouting these measures over and over again with public gatherings and protests with participants either not wearing masks or wearing masks as decorations around their necks and chins, and having no regard for social distancing etc. We have seen this in gatherings in Linden, Friendship and Plaisance, Agricola, outside of State House, each time the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) meets, and, in front of the Magistrates’ Courts, the Court of Appeal and the US Embassy.

The decision of the APNU/ AFC coalition to hold a series of community meetings, whether indoors (worse) or outdoors, in various regions at the same time that the number of persons infected with COVID-19 is rapidly increasing, is unconscionable.

The Commissioner of Police must answer whether he or any of his Commanders have given permission for these meetings, and further why has he not put a stop to them.

Our country is in the throes of two crises – one is a political crisis, after 145 days with no declaration of the recount results after the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections; and, the other is a public health crisis. The two are intrinsically connected and intertwined as our nation moves towards a humanitari-

an crisis the longer it takes for the declaration of the recount results which continue to be blocked by the APNU/AFC. Both are crises of democracy, human rights, rule of law and inclusive governance.

The PNCR General Secretary’s defiance of COVID-19 measures mirrors the APNU/AFC coalition’s rejection of the results of the recount and repudiation of the report of the Caricom scrutinising team, the July 8 rulings of the CCJ and the July 20 ruling of the Chief Justice.

Amna Ally is part of the Granger’s gang of brigands who have no conscience, no desire to put country and people first but are prepared to do everything to stay in Government, regardless of the consequences.

While the people of this country are suffering, while health workers across this country are asked to function in very risky conditions with very limited protection equipment, pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, and health facilities are stretched with limited staff, the PNC (APNU/ AFC same difference) focus is on misleading and mobilising supporters to challenge the inevitable declaration. This illustrates their utter disdain for our people.

The management of the pandemic is hopelessly floundering in a ‘green sea of neglect, ineptitude and arrogance’.

The PNC/APNU/AFC squatters cannot manage the basics of a pandemic – the combination of “men, machines and money”, coordinated in such way that resources – human, technical and financial – are distributed and available in an efficient manner where it is needed.

Not to forget, Mrs Lawrence, Chairperson of the PNC, who was busy on the campaign trail dolling out taxpayers’ dollars under the green and yellow banner when the WHO warned that there was a global pandemic. On March 5, she was busy signing Clairmont Mingo’s fraudulent declaration of results for Region Four, not paying attention to preparing Guyana for the pandemic.

In the interim between January 17 to March 1 with the first case, there was no expedi-

tious procurement of personal protective equipment – gloves, N95 masks, surgical masks, medical isolation gowns and caps, face shields, and isolation suits to protect the health workers who would be in the front line; no procurement of PCR test kits, no procurement of drugs and supplies.

This lack of action contrasted sharply with previous expenditures by the said Ministry of $100 billion over the last five years; billions of dollars were spent on the procurement of drugs for “emergencies” without going to tender. COVID-19 has not been treated as an emergency. In contrast, there appears to have been no shortage of money when the Government decided to spend $1 billion on refurbishing and retrofitting a dilapidated privately-owned hotel into a “COVID-19 Sanitorium”. Shrouded in secrecy, this, too, will be added to the pile of scandals exposed in the Annual Reports of the Office of the Auditor General.

More focused on elections, the Commander-in-Chief neglected to act to assist the Guyana Defence Force, the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Fire and Ambulance Services to procure masks, gloves and other protective gear as they too would be on the frontline.

The Guyana Prison Service, with 1200 inmates and hundreds of staff, also received no assistance. Their non-solution has been to release large numbers of prisoners.

The Ministry of Social Protection made no proper preparations for those in institutional care in homes for the elderly, orphanages, special needs children, etc. The fact that the Minister lives opposite the Palms and ignored the risks to the staff and clients therein is disgraceful. But what about the other homes for the elderly and special needs children who have run out of funding for food and cleaning supplies? These agencies have been seeking assistance over the last few months and have been told repeatedly they have to wait, there is no money.

By April 5, almost 3 weeks after the first case, there were 24 confirmed cases. By April 11, only 193 tests had been done, of which 51 were positive (45+6 deaths). This means 26

per cent of all tested were positive. Regrettably, these early figures did not send off alarm bells and move the Task Force into high gear to address this pandemic and protect our people, especially the most vulnerable. We are now paying for that initial loss of precious time.

There was no reason in this early period why the Ministry of Public Health with available supplies of test kits (thanks to the PAHO) restricted the allocation of test kits to Regions One, Seven, Eight, and Nine to between three-five each in the first 3 months. These are the same regions which now have the highest percentage of cases with numbers climbing daily. As usual, the usurpers take no responsibility but blame the transmission on outsiders entering the country, again deflecting from their ineptitude.

The Deputy Chief Medical Officer, in a July 22 media report, provided the incidence rate by region. She had said: “Even though the numbers in Region Four are higher, you are on average 9.5 times more likely to be infected in Region One than in Region Four and you are seven times more likely to get infected in Region Seven, than in Region Four.”

Yet over the last six months, there has been no health teams parachuted into these regions to go to the Amerindian Village Councils, give them advice, carry out awareness programmes, do mass testing and contract tracing, (not helicopter visits) but sustained presence as required in a public health crisis. This is a serious indictment of the Grangerled National COVID-19 Task Force and all involved.

The same DCMO made an astounding revelation that Guyana has a “very high” COVID-19 death rate for a country with less than a million people, approx. 17.6 per cent. As of July 26, cases have jumped to 370 and 20 deaths; this will continue to increase exponentially as forecast.

Why then is it that the people in Moruca, which is the main epicentre with the largest number of cases in the region, can only be tested on Sundays when the aircraft comes in?

Why are persons in quarantine there receiving 3 small bottles of water per day? Why is the complaint about the quality of

food universal in all quarantine and isolation institutions run by the Ministry of Public Health? Why are some people still in quarantine in Moruca and other places across the country for as long as six weeks and waiting 2 weeks for a test result at a time?

Why do people in Moruca have to call Mabaruma Hospital trying to find out about their test results and receive no help? Can one blame the Morucans if they do not trust the Health Ministry and feel that they are being neglected because they voted for the PPP? Instead, the Ministry of Public Health spent a fortune sending in several chartered flights to Moruca daily to pick up one test at a time.

In the early stages, the area where the cases were emerging from was less than 3 miles in circumference. Inaction once again has caused the rapid increase in cases.

Now the Itabac community in Region Eight has 2 cases, and no one has gone in from the health sector to speak to the community or carry out tests and contract tracing.

The situation in the health facilities is dread, especially again in the interior. Hospitals and health centres (in many communities the nearest hospital is 15 miles or one day by boat) are reporting stretched and stressed human resources, begging for weeks for more drugs and medical supplies, limited or no money to travel to communities and very limited funds to feed people in institutional quarantine and isolation.

Toshaos in Amerindian villages are doing what they can to protect their communities and close down access to the communities. A few days ago, the South Rupununi District Council (SRDC) decided to lock down all 21 Indigenous communities in light of five positive COVID cases across three villages. The SRDC reported, like other regions, that it takes almost one week for sick patients to be tested, even after reporting symptoms associated with COVID-19. There is an additional waiting time to receive the results. The Toshao of Aishalton stated that with only five health workers to service a community of over 1265 people, “We are not prepared

Honesty, decency and integrity mean...

Dr Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C have a rare and golden opportunity to retrieve Guyana from its long history of racial and divisive politics by recognising that the majority of the people of the country did not support the APNU/AFC at these elections notwithstanding the economic failures they have achieved in the last five years.

Other issues played a much larger role and those issues included a perception of neglect of disadvantaged communities by the APNU/AFC including sugar workers, mar-

ginalisation of Guyanese intellectuals who have been excluded from top Government positions; and a general view that high APNU/AFC had benefited hugely from their time in Government.

Also in the context that they paid no attention to their stronghold areas. Regretfully, Region 10, and shown considerable popular hostility to the working-class people which was the prescription for their disaster.

Dr Ifraan Ali, let good sense prevail during your presidency. There are many Guyanese

that need you to work closely with the small political parties and make every effort to talk to the leaders of these small opposition parties.

It would be the best interest of Guyana, and it would ensure that prosperity and stability can be built on the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s recent economic success and the definite prospects for immediate and continuous economic growth as a result of mining of gold, bauxite and manganese, with the expectation, to earn the country billions of dollars, as well as the real possibility

of oil production.

The future for the Guyana economy and the Guyanese people could be glowing if such a course is followed. If ever there was a time in the tides of a country’s fortunes that requires its politicians to put their narrow political interests to one side for the greater interest of the nation, that time is now. The vast majority of people of Guyana are now frightened and worried.

The country’s small political parties and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic leaders have the chance to turn

SEE ADDITIONAL LETTERS ON PAGE 17

in any way.”

In Kamwatta Hill, Region One, the Toshao said: “Nobody from the Ministry come to enlighten us on what is going to take place…. Everybody right now is out of jobs. We’re facing almost a food crisis because we cannot get money, we cannot get a job...”

No food relief has been sent in by the COVID-19 Task Force to these areas, but the GDF Skyan has been used to take in construction materials for a Minister’s husband who has had the majority of contracts in that region.

The Ministry of Agriculture has been missing in action (is there a Minister there still?) with no form of help with seeds, baby chicks, or rice for example, to these communities.

While refusing to demit office, the band of brigands has not distributed cloth masks to the public, food relief to families, especially the poor and vulnerable across the country, no financial assistance to working people or those made unemployed by the closure of businesses etc, no relief to the farmers and business community. Yet at the community meeting in Linden, it is said that Amna Ally was giving out $30,000 to select families.

The PNC has once again lived up to its legacy – squandermania, mismanagement, corruption and abandonment of our people in the face of a public health crisis.

In contrast, the Presidentelect, Irfaan Ali established the National COVID-19 Response Stakeholders Forum on March 28, 2020, and that grouping has mobilised hundreds of volunteers to sew and distribute 200,000 cloth masks in all 10 regions and distributed over 150,000 food hampers from April to today to the poor and vulnerable, as well as supplies of protection equipment, medical supplies and cleaning fluids, to health workers and facilities.

This is what the Grangerled Task Force should have been doing all along, but once again it has failed the people.

Their time is up; they cannot continue to ruin this country and punish the people.

Time to go!

Yours faithfully, Gail Teixeira

FROM PAGE 4

that fear and worry to relief, hope and confidence. Guyana, at last, could begin to realise the potential it has long held out.

Community leaders, leaders in the Caribbean and the world should call on David Granger and the leaders of APNU and AFC not to condemn our country to ruin and our people to the rack.

History is in their hands.

The next generation will be young people, students who would have seen all the wrongs they have committed during this 2020 electoral process and

how they have trampled on the will of the Guyanese people, which will be recorded as a part of the history books.

Every Guyanese must see by now that David Granger and his PNCR cabal’s intention is to push Guyana and the Guyanese people to great political instability, social unrest and a major reversal of their recent economic misfortune.

Let us rally behind Dr Irfaan Ali as Guyana’s ninth executive President.

Sincerely, David Adams

6

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

Page

Foundation

Guyana Times is pleased to publish CXC English and Mathematics questions with specimen answers.

CXC QUESTIONS

MATHS

ENGLISH

B

The Tempest

By William Shakespeare Act 1 Scene 2 Cont’d MIRANDA: Sir, have pity, I’ll be his surety.

PROSPERO: Silence! One word more Shall make me chide thee, if not hate thee. What, An advocate for an imposter? Hush, 4Thou think’st there is no more such shapes as he, Having seen but him and Caliban. Foolish wench, To th’ most of men this is a Caliban And they to him are angels.

MIRANDA: My affections Are then most humble. I have no ambition To see a goodlier man.

PROSPERO: (to FERDINAND) Come on. Obey.

Thy nerves are in their infancy again And have no vigor in them.

FERDINAND: So they are.

My spirits, as in a dream, are all bound up.

My father’s loss, the weakness which I feel, The wrack of all my friends, nor this man’s threats, To whom I am subdued, are but light to me, Might I but through my prison once a day Behold this maid. All corners else o’ th’ earth Let liberty make use of. Space enough Have I in such a prison.

PROSPERO: (aside) It works! (to FERDINAND) Come on. (aside) Thou hast done well, fine Ariel! (to FERDINAND) Follow me. (to ARIEL) Hark what thou else shalt do me.

MIRANDA: (to FERDINAND) Don’t worry, my father’s kinder than his words just now make him sound. What he said didn’t sound like him at all.

PROSPERO: (to ARIEL) Thou shalt be free As mountain winds. But then exactly do All points of my command.

ARIEL: To th’ syllable.

PROSPERO: (to FERDINAND) Come, follow. (to MIRANDA)—Speak not for him.

Exeunt

Questions Discuss why Prospero was banished Who is Ariel and why does she work for Prospero?

Who is Caliban? Discuss his relationship with Prospero

NEWS

7

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Dialogue with squatter-APNU/AFC before poll declaration will set bad precedent – Nandlall

PPP/C Executive Member Anil Nandlall

T

he A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government is currently squatting in Government unlawfully and therefore cannot reasonably expect to have any meaningful dialogue with other political stakeholders.

According to PPP/C Executive Member Anil Nandlall, the David Granger-led APNU/AFC coalition must first vacate office as it has been defeated at the March 2 General and Regional Elections before any talk of dialogue is even considered.

Nandlall, during an interview programme “Carib Update” on Monday, said that if the opposition parties were to agree to talk with the coalition while it still oc-

cupies the Government, it would be against the democratic process and would set a bad precedent for the Caribbean and the entire world.

“If you lose an election, democracy and the rule of law demand that you vacate office, you can come and talk afterwards, but you can’t remain in office squatting unlawfully, and then use your position in office to extract from your opponent some kind of political concession.

“That flies in the face of democracy as we know it, and if that precedent is ever set, I believe it will undermine the democratic process right across the world. And that is the problem here,” Nandlall, a former Attorney General under the PPP/C Government, outlined.

According to Nandlall, while on the one hand dialogue is always “desirable” in a political impasse, what one has to be careful about on this occasion is that “you don’t be construed as rewarding bullyism, fraud thuggery, and political intimidation”.

“Because every Government that loses an election now in the Caribbean and elsewhere will not want to relinquish power unless the Opposition, who has won the election, come and sit with them and they are able to extract concession.”

“That is not part of

the democratic process,” Nandlall argued.

After it was clear that the APNU/AFC had lost the elections and was running out of legal and other options to hang on to power, the coalition began to push for “dialogue” with the victo-

rious PPP/C and other parties.

Chief Spokesperson of the coalition, Joseph Harmon, had said: “The APNU/AFC coalition, in the national interest, and with a view to maintaining stability and peace, remains open to dialogue with other political parties and stakeholders on the way forward for our country. The APNU/AFC coalition is prepared to act responsibly to bring a resolution to the ongoing political situation.”

However, A New and

United Guyana (ANUG) and Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) have both maintained that they are not interested in having any discussions with the APNU/AFC at this time as the coalition must first accept defeat and allow for a smooth transition of

Government to the PPP/C, which has won the elections with in excess of the 15,000 votes.

“It should be noted that the ongoing political situation they claim to want resolved, is in totality again, their own doing and making.

It is nothing short of dishonesty and another display of the duplicitous nature of the leadership of APNU/AFC to say they are prepared to act

to resolve a situation, a situation which they have created and is within their power to resolve,” ANUG posited in its missive.

On this note, the party said that if the coalition is in fact prepared to “act responsibly”, then it should firstly concede and allow a new Government to be sworn in.

Meanwhile, the LJP echoed similar sentiments, noting that the time for dialogue was since December 22, 2018 – the day after the coalition was toppled by a No-Confidence Motion.

The party noted that the caretaker APNU/AFC has shown contempt for Guyana since then by failing to resign immediately and call elections within three months as mandated by the Constitution as well as contempt for the international community as of late by showing the utmost disrespect for anyone who points out their attempts to rig the elections while holding Guyana at ransom.

This, according to the LJP, is a clear demonstration that the coalition is disingenuous, irresponsible and duplicitous.

Both ANUG and the LJP said they will only have a dialogue with a legally elected Government, parliamentary opposition, other political

Chief spokesperson of the coalition, Joseph Harmon

parties and stakeholders in finding a progressive path forward for Guyana with issues such as constitutional and electoral reform high on the agenda.

This, ANUG said, can only be brought about through the declaration of the elections by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) using the votes tallied by the National Recount process, which the leadership of both APNU/ AFC and PPP/C agreed to.

Already, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has indicated that the PPP/C will not be having any dialogue with APNU/AFC before the election declaration is made.

8 NEWS “Blondie” gets 9 years for 2015 Boxing Day murder WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

A

31-year-old miner of Kato Village, North Pakaraima, Region

Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), was on Tuesday sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment for the 2015 Boxing Day murder of a gold miner.

Elvis Felix, also known as “Blondie,” was initially indicted for murder, but opted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter when he appeared before Justice Sandil Kissoon at the Suddie High Court.

The father of two admitted that on December 26, 2015, he unlawfully killed 28-year-old Ryan Simon.

The State was represented by Counsel Lisa Cave, who contended that the men had a misunderstanding, which later led to a scuffle.

After the scuffle, Felix left the scene and returned with a cutlass and dealt several chops to Simon about the body. He then made good his escape.

He was later arrested

Jailed: Elvis Felix

at Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and subsequently handed over the murder weapon to the police. Reports are that Felix had accused the now dead man of “talking his name.”

A report which was gath-

ered by a probation officer revealed that Felix has expressed remorse for his action and pleaded with the court for mercy as his two children are now left in the care of his elderly parents.

Despite this backdrop, the probation officer advised the court to deal with the matter in a way that sends a strong message to society that such violent behaviours will not be tolerated. Further, the officer asked the court to be merciful.

In arriving at an appropriate sentence for Felix, Justice Kissoon considered the aggravating and mitigating factors as well as the time he spent in pre-trial custody, which amounted to four years.

Felix was represented by Attorney-at-Law Ravindra Mohabir.

The unrepentant…

H

…Green PNC prototype amilton Green is proving that old political enforcers don’t just fade away: they remain lurking under rocks, always ready to slither out and create their mischief. Your Eyewitness has already commented on his treasonous words on Mark Benschop’s radio show that David Granger – who’s presently squatting on the Presidency – should “put aside the Constitution and laws” and continue squatting.

After the comment went viral, he quickly said that it was a “slip of the tongue”! But now, faced with even greater indignation – and most likely having his assets sized up for sanction by the Americans for encouraging the destruction of democracy – he’s now written to the press that he “regrets” his words! And that he’s “wedded” to the separation of power doctrine!! Yeah, right!! The man who epitomised the PNC’s “paramountcy” over the State!!

Regret?? When even in this written response to weasel out of his words, he continues lying?? Does he realise in this age of social media his comments can now be accessed whenever and wherever?? He started his latest excuse with, “Last week, in reply to a hypothetical question posed to me…blah, blah, blah”. But it was no “hypothetical” question he was answering to: Benschop asked him what advice he’d offer Granger now! Advice!

And very measuredly, Green gave his answer that fits with everything he’s done from the sixties’ racial wars to this day.

According to the official Police Report, he was part of the “X-13 Plan” by the PNC, launched on April 1, 1963, to, among other things, “organise gangs to commit sabotage in times of tension…One day during the month of May 1963, a meeting was held at Congress Place between 11.00 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. by L.F.S. Burnham, Claude Graham and Hamilton Green. At the meeting, it was decided to use explosives on all Government buildings, the latter being the Government Ferry Stelling and the Government Produce Depot, Lombard Street.” Terrorist Green!!

Fast forward to the seventies when he led gangs against WPA meetings and later even strikers at Bookers (Guyana) Stores. There were the unexplained deaths of his wife, Shirley Field-Ridley, ex-PPP Vincent Teekah and the shooting of Ratoon’s Joshua Ramsammy in which he was implicated. Even Burnham was very leery of his thuggery and ambitions, and sidelined him for Desmond Hoyte as PM, when his confidante Ptolemy Reid stepped down.

He never forgave Hoyte for that and opposed him at every step after Burnham died. Hoyte sidelined him, as he did that other Burnhamite Granger, and Green publicly boasted that he insisted to Hoyte not to accept the 1992 elections results!!

This’s why he was the first man honoured by Granger in 2015!

Regrets his words?? Gwan da side, Green!! …and revived X-13 plan Granger’s a very dull, plodding fellow. In terms of his vaunted “strategic thinking”, all he does is imitate what he thinks his idol Burnham would’ve done, if he were still alive. The man’s like that nutcase Bates in “Psycho”, who kept his mummified mother’s body and spoke to it daily!!

He verified this when he told PNC supporters in Atlanta back in 2017 – that he’d imitated Burnham and captured power in 2015 like Burnham did in 1964 through a coalition. He’d follow up with rigging the next election in 2020 to dump the partner and rule happily ever after – well at least another 28 years – like Burnham!!

But he never figured on smartphones – which weren’t around in ‘64!! So, caught in flagrante delicto, and facing pressure from all and sundry, what to do?

Well, duh!! Resuscitate X-13!! Haven’t his minions and myrmidons already been stirring up racial fears among their supporters?

But Granger also forgets this time na lang time. The youths are more woke!! …liars Your Eyewitness knows it’s the un-reconstituted PNC we’re dealing with. But he still can’t get over how they can continue to lie when they’re confronted with their RECORDED prior statements.

Like the one where Granger repeatedly said he’d accept the Chairwoman’s recount!!

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

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Electoral coup d’état

Lincoln Lewis condemned for pushing dictatorship

...PPP/C calls for sanctions against Lewis, others

Veteran Trade Unionist Lincoln Lewis

C

ontroversy continues to brew from the PNC-aligned radio programme on which caretaker President David Granger has appeared several times since Clairmont Mingo attempted to rig the elections on his behalf.

This time, its host, Mark Benschop and labour leader Lincoln Lewis, who was at the centre of it with the host, were incredibly insisting that Granger was “above the Constitution”, since he was an Executive President.

Lewis in response took the position that caretaker President Granger can “take action” against the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) if the Commission continues to insist on declaring the results of the recount.

In an invited comment on the recent statement by Lewis, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) stated that any attempt to flout the Constitution by Granger will have serious consequences.

The PPP/C added that Granger has no power to take action against GECOM, which is a constitutional body, while noting that it is obligated to de-

clare the elections based on the recount figures.

Further, the PPP/C related that the current situation is already tense and if the caretaker President insists on going ahead as advised by Lewis, then he was creating room for future Presidents to follow suit, and to trample on the rule of law and the Constitution.

As such, the Opposition is calling for personal sanctions against Lewis and others who are continuously pushing the country towards a return to PNC dictatorship.

Lewis, the President of the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers’ Union (GB&GWU), had appeared on Benschop’s programme on Monday night, speaking about his expectations for GECOM Chair, Retired Justice Claudette Singh, who is awaiting a decision of the Court of Appeal on the status on the recount results in order to declare a winner of the March 2 elections.

His expectations include that the Chair can withhold her vote from the six-member partisan Commission if the declaration of the results comes to a vote. He then outrageously suggested that President Granger can intervene in the work of GECOM if it “fails the people of the country.”

“The Constitution spoke about a President. And that President has Executive responsibilities and duties. And the President has to look on this country and look at what is taking place. He has a responsibility to ensure that peace and tranquillity run through every sector of this country,” Lewis said.

“And if the Elections Commission’s actions are inimical to the interest and intent of the Constitution and the ethos of this country, then he will have to take action. Whatever form it is. We can’t have an election that is marred with discrepancies, that we consider as rigged… Mr Granger will have to take action, if the Elections Commission fails the people of the country.”

Commenting on the matter, former presidential adviser Ramon Gaskin was critical of the implication contained in Lewis’s utterances. He pointed out that GECOM is an independent, constitutional body and if GECOM declares the PPP/C as the winner, then President Granger has no choice but to peacefully demit office like the PPP/C did in 2015.

“If GECOM uses the recount to declare the winner, they will be operating in keeping with the decision of the CCJ. And if they do that, the candidate of the PPP/C will be declared the President. And President Granger will have to demit office. That’s how it’s done in Guyana.”

“The last time GECOM declared President Granger as the President, the PPP/C, (former President) Donald Ramotar and all of them, demitted office quietly. So, to say the President will have to take action, I don’t know what he’s saying.”

Article 163 of the Constitution of Guyana grants the High Court the exclusive jurisdiction to determine the legality of an election, through an election petition. Everyone, from the Caribbean Court of

Justice (CCJ) to the High Court to the GECOM Chair herself, has elaborated that this is the only recourse open for APNU/ AFC to register its concerns regarding the election. Gaskin also referenced Article 163.

“The Constitution provides for that. They have to go to the High Court. But to say that the President can take action against GECOM if he doesn’t like the decision, that would be improper. If he was to take action against them, it would be unconstitutional. There’s nothing in the Constitution that allows the President to take action against GECOM.” “A lot of this is foolish talk.

We have to get over it. Get these elections declared. It’s

nearly five months. To say the President can take action is entirely irresponsible. They have to file an election petition,” Gaskin said.

It was only recently that Hamilton Green, a former Prime Minister under the PNC regime, said during an interview on “Straight Up Live” that Granger should “…do what is necessary. Put aside the Constitution [and] put aside the laws. You are, at this moment, and will be for a long time, Commander-in-Chief.

Take action so that your people, our people and the people of Guyana, will honour you, no matter what it costs.”

There was a swift backlash to his words, which were even

Caretaker President David Granger

described as advocating for a coup d’état. Green has since apologised for his words in other sections of the media, calling it a lapsus linguae, that is, a slip of the tongue. (G3)

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

APNU/AFC public meetings defying COVID-19 rules

Region Three Commander Simon Mc Bean

T

he A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition over the weekend organised and executed several public meetings across the country, thus breaching the national COVID-19 guidelines.

The coalition’s meetings were announced for several locations, with some being held in Regions Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); Four (Demerara-Mahaica); Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) Presently, the COVID-19 measures only allow for a maximum of 25 persons at gatherings but the APNU/ AFC’s public meeting over-

passed its quota with little or no sanctions by the police.

When contacted, some Regional Commanders indicated that permission was granted while it was dismantled in other regions.

Speaking with Guyana Times Commander of Region Three, Assistant Police Commissioner Simon Mc Bean explained that the coalition had written to him, seeking permission to have ten meetings across the district.

He said permission was granted under conditions to practice social distancing.

He added too that Police ranks were deployed to en-

Task Force with the condition that a six feet social distancing be practiced along with the wearing of masks.

“We received an application from the coalition Government to hold public meetings at 10 different locations across the region on Sunday. Along with their application, they were granted permission to use Government schools from the COVID-19 Task Force. Police were deployed at all the locations to ensure that they follow the guidelines that was set out by the Region Three COVID-19 Task Force,” the Commander indicated.

One of the public meetings held in Region Three

Times that the meetings were dismantled and supporters were forced to leave after assembling.

“Nobody didn’t give permission to keep meeting. We

Some of the APNU/AFC supporters at a meeting in Region Four

sure that such happened this was never practiced.

The permission to use public schools was given by the Regional COVID-19

On the other hand, Commander of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Superintendent Crystal Robinson told Guyana

tell them to leave,” she posited.

Guyana Times understands that the meetings in Region Six were held at

twelve locations and law enforcement officials were oblivious to this happening.

The coalition has already been criticised by stakeholders and the parliamentary Opposition for their handling of the pandemic, and this new announcement sparked additional concerns about the health implications involved. Moreover, the non-adherence to the national guidelines have been condemned.

Former opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira in a letter on Monday questioned whether the party had a conscience and any love for country, their supporters or healthcare workers already struggling under the present conditions.

“While the people of this country are suffering, while health workers across this country are asked to function in very risky conditions with very limited protection equipment, pharmaceuti-

cals and medical supplies, and health facilities are stretched with limited staff, the APNU+AFC focus is on misleading and mobilising supporters to challenge the inevitable declaration. This illustrates their utter disdain for our people,” she had said.

When questioned about the meetings by sections of the media, People’s National Congress (PNC) General Secretary Amna Ally had said that the meetings were the coalition’s business.

This was notwithstanding their ability to spread the virus.

“The PNC’s defiance of COVID-19 measures mirrors the APNU/AFC coalition’s rejection of the results of the recount and repudiation of the report of the Caricom scrutinising team, the July 8 rulings of the CCJ and the July 20 ruling of the Chief Justice,” Teixeira wrote.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Solid grounds to prosecute Lowenfield – Christopher Ram …says whole world witnessed actions of CEO

Attorney-at-Law Christopher Ram

TNM candidate, Dr Josh Kanhai is one of the private citizens who brought the charges against Lowenfield

he adjournment of the private criminal charges against Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield to allow for the submission of further documents has led some to call for the dismissal of the charges.

However, prominent Attorney-at-Law Christopher Ram has asserted that solid grounds exist for the private criminal charges Lowenfield currently faces.

His arguments come in light of calls by caretaker Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan for the charges to be dismissed on the basis of malicious prosecution. In an interview with this publication, Ram shared his views on the charges that were brought by The New Movement (TNM) candidate, Dr Josh Kanhai, and Desmond Morian.

“If he (Ramjattan) feels Lowenfield has such a great chance of success, maybe he should take on the matter.

Private citizens with a direct stake in the matter have brought action. I wonder if Ramjattan knows what are the conditions to succeed on malicious prosecution. He’s completely wrong,” the attorney said.

According to Ram, there is nothing wrong with the participants needing more time to submit statements and moreover, there are solid grounds for the charges.

He posited that if something was wrong as persons have suggested, Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty would not have adjourned the case.

“There are solid grounds for the institution of the charges and what Ramjattan should do as a lawyer is wait till this process plays out and then he may want to of-

T

fer some pro bono legal advice to Mr Lowenfield.”

“There’s absolutely nothing wrong (with the adjournment). If there was something so wrong, clearly the Magistrate would have recognised that” Ram said, adding that the whole of Guyana and the world are witnesses to the CEO’s actions.

Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield made his first appearance in court before Magistrate McGusty on Friday. Lowenfield, who was represented by Attorney Nigel Hughes and Senior Counsel Neil Boston, was slapped with three private criminal charges regarding the conspiracy to commit fraud, misconduct in public office and breach of trust.

Charges

Kanhai, the General Secretary of TNM, had filed

a charge which stated that between March 5 and June 23, 2020, the CEO conspired with person(s) unknown to commit the common law offence of fraud when he submitted his election report dated June 23 to include figures that altered the results of the elections.

Meanwhile, Morian had contended that Lowenfield, while performing his duties as CEO of GECOM, ascertained the results of the March 2 elections “knowing the said results to be false, the said wilful misconduct amounting to a breach of the public’s trust in the office which he presides.

In fact, the charges against Lowenfield were filed since June 30.

However, it took over three weeks before he was officially served on July 23, as the CEO did his best to avoid being served. On July 3, the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts was forced to issue a summons for the CEO after marshals could not find him to serve him with notice of the case.

When those two charges came up for hearing before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on July 3, Lowenfield was a no-show. Following that court session, Morian filed another private criminal charge, contending that Lowenfield conspired with a person or persons unknown to use Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo’s fraudulent figures to prepare a report that was submitted to the Chairperson

Pomeroon pensioner found dead in trench all indications, he was “tipsy”.

He nevertheless left home to purchase ice in the area but did not return. At about 17:15h, his niece received information that her uncle’s body was seen lying motionless in a trench.

T

he body of a pension was pulled from a trench at Matin Dale Lower Pomeroon River, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), on Tuesday suspected to have drowned.

The dead man has been identified as 74-yearold Morris Edwards of

Pomeroon River. Based on reports received, the man travelled to the Charity Post Office to uplift his pension and returned home.

However, his niece told investigators that her uncle was carrying a bottle of alcohol in his hand when he returned home and from

CORRECTION In an article published in the July 28 edition of Guyana Times titled “Guyana needs a focused Govt to deal with COVID-19, economic crisis – CDB economist”, please note that Dr Justin Ram is no longer attached to the Caribbean Development Bank. In fact, he appeared on a Globe Span live talk show as a regional economist.

An alarm was raised and the man’s body was recovered. There were reportedly no marks of violence about the body. His body was taken to the Charity Hospital Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem. An investigation is underway.

GECOM CEO Keith Lowenfield

of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Retired Justice Claudette Singh, back in March.

Lowenfield was not required to plead to the indictable charges and was subsequently released on $150,000 for each of the charges, amounting to $450,000. The matter is scheduled to continue on August 14.

Insubordination

The GECOM Chair had written to Lowenfield on June 16, instructing him to prepare a final report based on the recount which showed that the opposition People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) won the elections with 233,336 votes while the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition garnered 217,920.

Instead, Lowenfield had submitted a report invalidating over 115,000 votes based on unsubstantiated allegations of dead and migrant voters, made by the APNU/AFC. Lowenfield’s actions caused an immediate uproar and the varying sides found themselves

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan

in the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) for the Irfaan Ali et al v Eslyn David et al case.

Among other decisions, the CCJ ruled in a unanimous decision that Lowenfield’s report which arbitrarily disenfranchised voters was invalid and that the concerns raised by the APNU/AFC coalition must be addressed in an election petition.

The GECOM Chair wrote Lowenfield again, instructing him to submit his report so that the President could be declared. However, Lowenfield then engaged in a back and forth with the Chair in which sections of the CCJ judgement were twisted and misconstrued.

He then submitted a fraudulent report to Justice Singh, in which he included the fraudulent declarations of embattled Returning Officer for Region Four Clairmont Mingo, which inaccurately shows that the PPP/C gained 80,920 votes while the APNU/AFC received 116,941 votes in Region Four.

12 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CDB remembers Owen Arthur as “steadfast” COVID-19 cases defender of Caribbean regionalism continue to increase,

Former Barbadian PM Owen Arthur

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he Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has paid tribute to the late former Barbadian Prime Minister Owen Arthur, labelling him a passionate defender of matters in the Caribbean region.

CDB President, Dr Warren Smith reflected on the humble beginnings of the Caribbean leader, who rose to be a “titan” of Barbadian politics, becoming the country’s longest-serving Prime Minister while guiding the island through a period of unprecedented growth.

“Beyond Barbados, he wrote his name on history’s page in the annals of the Caribbean for, if there was one thing, we knew for sure about Professor Arthur, it

was that he was a steadfast and passionate defender of Caribbean regionalism,” Dr Smith penned.

Along with his dedication in the political arena, he contributed capital to the advancement of regional integration. This commitment, the CDB President noted, should cement the name of Owen Arthur as an instrumental foundation to the advancement of the Region, especially in the establishment of the Caricom Single Market and Economy with the signing of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas in 2001.

“At times, when it seemed that progress and will stagnated, Professor Arthur rekindled the fire of regionalism with his intellectual ferment. For him, regional integration was a pathway to sustainable development,” Dr Smith said.

At the CDB, Arthur served as a long-time Governor, resolutely ensuring that the Bank “held fast” to its “mandate to support regional development and mindful” of the task to build economic and social resilience of the Small Developing States that comprise its membership.

Dr Smith went on to say, “The agenda for the advancement of the cause of Small Developing States today very much bears his footprint.

Twenty years

CDB President, Dr Warren Smith

ago, he boldly set out the twin challenges facing small developing economies of the Region, namely volatility and vulnerability, and dared the international community to embrace ‘unorthodox’ responses to their resolution.”

In a long, noteworthy career, he served as a lecturer at the University of the West Indies in his early days and most recently, as a Professor of Practice in the Economics of Development, imparting his immense knowledge to the younger generation.

“Of course, there was also his abiding regional passion – West Indies cricket. From his first attendance at a Test match — the West Indies versus Pakistan at

Kensington Oval in 1958, his zeal for West Indies cricket was never in doubt, with the former Prime Minister himself stating that when he was a boy, he would have preferred to become a West Indies cricketer than a Prime Minister,” Dr Smith related.

The CDB recognised that the former PM never gave up on the vision of an integrated Caribbean, despite the frequent delays in meeting the objectives. He remained until the end a loyal public servant, both to Barbados and the Caribbean at large, taking on several challenging assignments.

“As we mourn his passing, we celebrate his legacy, and as the Region’s development institution, pledge to continue the work of deepening and widening regional cooperation and integration.”

A few hours after Arthur passed, tributes poured in throughout the Region, even from caretaker President David Granger, who expressed sadness.

But one of Arthur’s last acts in public life, witnessed by the world, was standing up against Granger’s Government and its intimidatory tactics against the elder statesman and his peers while he was in Guyana as Head of the Commonwealth elections observer team.

7 new cases detected – active cases now stand at 195 – Regions 7 and 9 are hotspots

T

he coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues to increase in Guyana, with seven new cases detected from the 62 tests that were conducted in the previous 24hour span. This now brings the total active cases to 195 and the overall number to 396.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud noted that of the new cases, six were from Arau in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and the other one was from Georgetown.

To date, the total number of tests done is 5712, but

the number of persons tested is 4478. There have been 20 COVID-19 related deaths, with 195 active cases in institutional isolation, 34 persons in institutional quarantine and four patients in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Another 181 persons have recovered.

Dr Persaud said Regions Seven and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) were still hotspots for the virus. On Monday, all of the 19 recorded cases came from Region Nine.

TURN TO PAGE 14

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Komal Chand hailed as “champion of workers’ rights” in final farewell

Veteran Trade Unionist Komal Chand

By Lakhram Bhagirat

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eteran trade unionist and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) stalwart Komal Chand was finally cremated at Kashi Dhaam at Rumzeight, West Coast

Avoidance and Settlement of Disputes Agreement with the then Sugar Producers Association.

Outside of GAWU, Chand served as the Vice President of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG)

Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs

Demerara, on Tuesday – almost four months after he died in Cuba where he was receiving medical attention.

He was hailed as a champion for workers’ rights in the many tributes that were paid to celebrate his legacy as one of the country’s foremost trade unionists.

Chand served as President of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) up until his death on April 8, 2020.

GAWU is the bargaining agent for Guyana’s thousands of sugar workers and Chand has been at the helm of the Union for a number of years. He joined in 1975 as the Union’s Organising Secretary at the time and was instrumental in securing the poll to have GAWU represent the interest of the sugar workers.

During the time he joined GAWU, it was almost the height of the three-decade struggle for the Union’s recognition to represent the interest of the field and factory workers in the sugar industry. It was on December 31, 1975, that the then Government held a poll for the representation. GAWU came out victorious, securing almost 90 per cent of the votes and Chand was among those who affixed his signature on the Recognition and the

and was a member of the Presidential Council of the World Federation of Trade Unions. Chand was one of the most committed in GAWU and worked his way

Former President Donald Ramotar

PPP/C Executive Member Clement Rohee

to stand up to those in authority. He was always cognisant of the fact that in order for the workers to advance, they must have a seat at the table and be involved in the decision-making process. To have this seat at the table and be better able to represent the interest of the workers, Chand became even more involved in the political realm and became a Member of Parliament in 1992. He served until Parliament was prorogued in December 2019 to make way for the March 2020 General and Regional Elections.

At his funeral, Chand was hailed by many as a staunch defender of social injustices and remembered for his grassroots connections and simplicity. He was honoured for his knack of separating politics from the fight for the betterment of the working class – especially the sugar workers.

In paying tribute to the veteran trade unionist, GAWU General Secretary Seepaul Narine noted that he was an exemplary leader

ers were in distress.

Meanwhile, PPP Executive Clement Rohee noted that Chand was an outspoken voice in the party, who was never afraid to make his opinions known.

class… He truly believed in GAWU and the workers. He was outstanding in many fronts and it served him well during his lifetime.

He believed that everyone could make a contribution

GAWU General Secretary Seepaul Narine

and their efforts appreciated,” Narine noted.

He noted that Chand’s legacy is inextricably linked to the struggles of the sugar workers and their fight for betterment. He stood up and challenged the authorities without fear or favour to

The body of Komal Chand in his casket

up the ranks and served in key positions at GAWU until he became President of the Union.

His commitment to the struggles of the working class saw him being conferred with the country’s third-highest national award - the Cacique Crown of Honour.

He displayed a sense of fearlessness in his representation and was never afraid

and a staunch disciplinarian. He noted that Chand truly believed in the GAWU and its vision of better representation for the working class.

“This extraordinary figure for over 25 years stood with the workers and downtrodden in this country. We shared many anxious moments and was involved in campaigns on issues for the betterment of the working

ensure that the plight of the workers he represented was addressed and even stood in solidarity with those he did not represent.

FITUG’s President and close friend to Chand, Carvil Duncan related that the challenges of the working class always occupied the mind of the late trade unionist. He noted that for Chand, the Union was always in distress when work-

He remembered Chand for his expert negotiating skills and the ability to connect on various levels with every person he encountered.

He said that Chand distinguished himself from others as one who led on the ground among the people.

“He was optimistic of the confidence of the sugar workers in their Union.

He left a lasting legacy to the Union he led and to the trade unions in this country,” Rohee said.

Former President Donald Ramotar, who was also a close friend of Chand, also paid his tribute while reminiscing on the days they spent in Russia as students.

“He was multitalented…he was industrious… he lived a life of service… he was disciplined man,” Ramotar remembered.

Chand spent his last days in Cuba where he was being treated and after his death and restrictions to travel

owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, getting his body back to Guyana was a hassle. The family, his Union and party worked closely with the Cuban authorities to get his body back home.

Honouring the friendship between Chand and the People of Cuba, the Cuban Ambassador to Guyana remembered him as someone who truly believed in defending just causes and condemning injustices.

Chand also served as a parliamentarian for the PPP for over 25 years and honouring his contributions to the House was Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs.

“A cordial relationship existed between Komal and myself until the time of his death. Normally, when I am being criticised by the papers, Komal will call me and say ‘Sherlock, have no fear.

Don’t take it on, it will soon pass’ I would never forget those words.

“Mr Chand served in the National Assembly for 25 years, 11 months and 19 days and participated in 32 debates. He served in the following important parliamentary Committees – Economic Services Committee, the Public Accounts Committee, the Special Select Committee on the Trade Union Recognition Bill, Natural Resources Committee,” Isaacs noted.

He lauded Chand for his contribution to the overall development in Guyana.

The tributes at the funeral service were numerous and included General Secretary of the Rice Producers Association, Dharamkumar Seeraj and Region Three Chairman, Julius Faerber.

Chand leaves to mourn his wife and three children.

14 NEWS Fire ravages Pomeroon 2nd person arrested for home, arson suspected execution-style killing of Lusignan contractor A A WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

dredge owner, his wife and 12-year-old niece are now homeless after a fire gutted their two-storey wooden and concrete home at Grant Akawini, Lower Pomeroon River, (Region Two), on Monday morning.

So far, Police in that district are treating the fire as suspected arson.

The incident occurred between 07:00h and 09:30h on the day in question.

The dredge owner’s wife, Bevon English reportedly told investigators that her 39-year-old husband, Epston English, is presently in an interior location working, and she is usually at home with 12-year-old her niece.

The woman said she and her niece left to go to their farm, located about one mile away from her home.

However, at about 09:30h, a 53-year-old farmer reportedly saw the blaze and immediately raised an alarm. Residents formed a bucket brigade to put out the blaze but due to the

The house that was completely destroyed by fire in Pomeroon (Region Two)

intense heat, they were forced to retreat.

Meanwhile, upon arriving at the scene, English was inconsolable after

seeing her house completely gutted.

An investigation has commenced to determine the origin and cause of the fire.

Family seeking assistance to locate missing 11-year-old boy

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n 11-year-old boy of Lot 32 Second Street Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara (ECD), has been missing for almost a week, and his mother is seeking the public’s assistance to locate him.

The child’s mother, Sheriann Bossey, told Guyana Times that her old son, Iwin Blucher, was last seen on Saturday at around 16:00h.

The woman said she had just returned home from work when she met her son sitting at the gate. She said they both greeted each other, and she told him to go in the yard.

Bossey said when she got into the house, her daughter told her that Blucher

Missing: Iwin Blucher

and her (the daughter) were playing, thus causing the television to fall.

The child’s mother said she simply looked outside and told him to come inside, with the intention of finding out what happened.

After a few minutes had elapsed and he did not show up, the woman said she sent her older son to call him.

She said she later looked out and saw her 11-yearold son sprinting out of the yard, and onto the road.

Iwin was said to be wearing a spiderman t-shirt, and a pair of 3¼ cream pants, with no shoes on his feet.

He is said to be about 5ft tall and dark in complexion.

The child’s family has since launched a search party in hopes of locating him.

“We are looking for him, up to now we are pacing

around Georgetown and all over, we were looking for him from Saturday up to now. I didn’t even get to sleep from that time to this time”, she said.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Iwin Blucher is asked to contact his mother on tel# 633-4466 or the nearest police station.

second suspect has been arrested for questioning in connection with the execution-style killing of Kissoondatt Premsukh, a contractor at D’Urban Street, Georgetown, on July 16 last.

Acting Region Four Divisional Commander, Senior Superintendent Phillip Azore explained that the man was arrested after detectives followed several leads.

The Commander did not go into details of the man’s arrest, given that the investigation is ongoing, and releasing information at this time might be premature.

However, Guyana Times understands that the police had arrested one man for the murder but he was subsequently released.

In addition, about one week ago, a businessman was released from custody after he was implicated and accused of contracting the hitmen to commit the act.

Premsukh, of Lot 138 Lusignan, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was at his D’Urban Street, Lodge worksite when the two armed men pulled up on a motorcycle and discharged several bullets in his direc-

Dead: Kissoondatt Premsukh

tion.

It was reported that the father of three was shot multiple times – once to the head and at least twice to his upper body. Soon after the shooting, the injured Premsukh collapsed onto the ground.

He was picked up and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

One month prior to his death, an attempt was made to end his life. On Father’s Day, the contractor was injured after he was shot twice by an unknown suspect.

Investigations are ongoing.

COVID-19 cases continue...

“Our hotspots continue to be Regions Seven and Nine – which remain highrisk areas…The majority are coming from Region Seven and yesterday (Monday), all the new cases were reported in Region Nine. As you are aware, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo shares a wide expanse of border with Brazil where COVID-19 is rampant,” the CMO noted.

In the global ranks, Brazil comes second after the United States of America and has reported a total of 2, 455, 905 cases with 88,017 deaths. Hence, all local village officials and

residents were asked to take the guidelines seriously and ensure that migrants were not permitted entry.

“Residents, the [Health] Ministry continues to plead with you to adhere to the health guidelines and to intensify your community action. Village Councillors, gate keepers and prominent members of the communities, your role is to work collectively to ensure compliance with the regulations if you wish to keep down the transmission of the disease. No cross-border movement should be allowed and any migrants to the community must be im-

FROM PAGE 12

mediately reported to the authorities. In the communities too, you have to act responsibly,” the senior health official reminded.

Persons are being asked to only leave their home if there is an urgent need and to wear a mask in public, while washing hands frequently and practising social distancing.

According to the World Health Organisation, the total number of cases has increased to 16,114,449 with 646,641 deaths and in the Region of the Americas, the total number of cases is now 8,610,134 with 337, 439 deaths.

NEWS

15

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ramsammy’s Ruminations

Operations at Omai expected to resume after Hamilton Green, the multimillion-dollar deal with Canadians old rigger, was dead T serious calling for a military coup d’état

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few days ago, Hamilton Green, an old rigger and dictator, urged David Granger, the Commander-in-Chief, to discard the Constitution and laws of Guyana and remain in power.

It was a case of mouth open, story jumped out – APNU/AFC is seriously considering a coup.

Recognising that thieving the elections with a GECOM-rigged fraudulent declaration is highly unlikely because Justice Claudette Singh is refusing to be one of the riggers and that the Judiciary is also not playing the rigging game, elements in APNU/AFC are not hiding the Dr Leslie Ramsammy possibility of a coup d’état.

With all options to stay in power evaporating, Green decided to place the coup d’état option in the public sphere, intentionally testing the waters. Stunned by the public outrage that immediately erupted, Green now wants people to believe it was a “slip of the tongue”, lapsus linguae. But his unequivocal statement was no “slip of the tongue”. He clearly begged the Commander-in-Chief to rally his troops and discard the Constitution. Green, of course, has a history of constitutional infidelity. He was part of a brutal dictatorship that rigged elections and meddled with the Constitution as they pleased. They even imposed a new constitution through a rigged referendum. Thus, discarding the Constitution is Green’s comfort zone.

Using Latin formulations like “lapsus linguae” has become a familiar shield for Granger’s surrogates. Not so long ago, James Patterson, illegally appointed by Granger as GECOM Chair, in total breach of the Constitution, claimed he served as Chief Justice of Grenada in his resumé. When confronted with evidence he was never the Chief Justice of Grenada, Patterson’s excuse was a “lapsus calami” – slip of the pen.

Green was part of the first rigged election in 1968. He played important roles in rigging the 1978 referendum and the 1973, 1980 and 1985 rigged elections. He was a part of an administration during which opponents were murdered. While Josh Ramsammy survived a murder attempt, Father Drake, Walter Rodney, the Ballot Box Martyrs and many others were killed during those years when the PNC dictatorship was enabled by the most rigged elections anywhere in the world, using the military to thief elections and intimidate and harass citizens. Green’s faked lapsus linguae was just a reminder for Granger how the PNC stayed in power between 1964 and 1992.

Granger himself in a meeting in Atlanta with supporters a while back reminded them how the PNC gained power and how they stayed in power. He projected to them that just as the PNC used the UF in 1964 and then unceremoniously dumped them, so too in 2015, they used the AFC, the WPA, and others. Granger projected to these supporters also that just as the PNC stayed in power for 28 years through rigged elections, the PNC will stay in power for a long time again. But he and APNU/AFC have found out that the Guyanese people will not accept dictatorship and rigged elections anymore, that the PPP and other political parties will not permit them to thief the elections and that the international stakeholders who stood by and permitted them in the past to thief elections are no longer in the mood for electoral fraud.

Hamilton Green is today feasting on the Guyanese taxpayers.

His pension of monthly $1.5 million, made possible by a special law passed by APNU/AFC adds to another pension from the Georgetown City Council, as the former mayor. He was a failed mayor having made Georgetown the dirtiest city in Caricom. But his pension is unconscionable because in the 28 years he was a senior member of the dictatorial government, his credentials were disgraceful. He must be reminded of his disgraceful record.

The following is just a tip of the iceberg, space does not permit a detailed list of his disgraceful tenure in the PNC dictatorship.

Guyana became one of the poorest countries in the world, one of the most indebted countries, with a debt-to-GDP ratio of an unbelievable 953 per cent, among the top three most indebted countries in the world and in history.

When he was Prime Minister between 1985 and 1992, the Guyana dollar depreciated from G$4 to G$120 to US$1.

Simultaneously, more than 10,000 public servants and more than 3000 bauxite workers lost their jobs. During that time, serving as Minister of Health, child and maternal mortalities were among the highest in the world. Between 1985 and 1992, more than 2200 babies under five years old died every single year.

The proposal for Granger to discard the Constitution and laws of Guyana is a brazen, intentional call for a coup d’état, no “lapsus linguae” – slip of the tongue. There was no confusion, cowardly blaming senility. Mouth open, story jumped out, this old dictator must be sanctioned; he should be charged with treason and the international community should include him as one of the riggers to be punished. Green, Granger and others are delusional, if they think a coup will happen. The Guyanese people and the international community are not in a mood for a dictatorship in Guyana.

he Omai Gold Mines may soon see some drilling recommencing, as Avalon Investments Holding and Anconia Resources Corp received a strategic investment from Silvercorp Metals Inc. The strategic investment, which is to the tune of US$4.5 million, was announced on Tuesday by the various stakeholders.

Silvercorp, a Canada-based company with interest in precious metals, was issued 30,000,000 common shares of Avalon Investments Holding, which has a 100 per cent indirect interest in Guyana’s Omai Gold Mines.

The investment will also see Anconia Resources Corp and Silvercorp entering an investor rights agreement, which will give Silvercorp the right to participate in the company’s equity financings. Mario Stifano, incoming President and CEO of the Resulting Issuer, hinted at the commencement of drilling at Omai this year.

Omai Gold Mines

“We are very pleased to have received the support of Silvercorp as we continue advancing the Omai Gold Mine. Omai has historically produced over 3.7 million ounces of gold and has the potential to again become a tier-one gold asset in the Americas,” Stifano said.

Meanwhile, incoming Executive Director and founder Dennis Clement also highlighted Omai’s untapped potential. According to him, Omai has the potential to become the leading

gold company in Guyana.

“Silvercorp’s investment further validates the significant potential of Omai to become the leading gold exploration company in Guyana.

With Silvercorp’s investment, Avalon is fully financed to complete the RTO listing and to carry out its exploration plans over the coming year,” he said in a statement.

There has been much upheaval in the local mining sector of recent. And Silvercorp has played an im-

portant part in it. Silvercorp had previously entered an agreement with fellow Canadian company Guyana Goldfields for Silvercorp to buy out their shares That was until a Chinese company – Zijin Mining Group Co, a leading global mining company specialising in gold, copper, zinc, and other mineral resource exploration and development – bettered their purchasing price and the conditions that were agreed upon.

Silvercorp was given an option to better Zijin’s price within a certain timeframe.

However, Silvercorp failed to make a superior offer, resulting in Guyana Goldfields accepting the offer of the Chinese mining company.

The agreement between the two was finalised at an annual and special meeting of shareholders on July 27. Meanwhile, Goldfields, which has laid off a significant number of its workers, is in care and maintenance mode.

Goldfields produces 57,500 ounces of gold in 2020 – 28,500 oz from second quarter, filings show

Aurora Gold Mine, Goldfields’ subsidiary

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uyana Goldfields has released its second-quarter earnings, showing that the company produced 57,500 ounces of gold for the year and 28,500 ounces for the second quarter in 2020, notwithstanding the layoffs and the company entering a care and maintenance period.

This info is according to the financial results they filed with regulators. In a statement on Tuesday, Goldfields noted that this amount exceeded their “guidance” of 45,000 to 50,000 ounces for the first half of 2020.

According to the company, they received revenue of $53.7 million in the second quarter, with the total for the first six months of the year adding up to $92.3 million. They also explained that they have paid out $2 million in employee termination benefits, lower than the previous estimate of $3.2 million. In their filings, they also provided info on their care and maintenance programme.

“Ongoing costs for care and maintenance are esti-

mated to be approximately $1.0 million per month, including all costs at site and associated general and administrative costs to keep the property in good standing, as required by our Mineral Agreement and Mining License, each with the Government of Guyana.”

“In addition, during the period of care and maintenance, we estimate corporate and administrative costs of $0.5 million to $0.8 million per month for overhead for our corporate office,” they also announced.

When Goldfields entered into its agreement to sell its shares to Chinese mining company Zijin Mining Group Co, the company was given access to a loan facility of US$30 million. According to Goldfields in its filings, they have a loan balance of $6.5 million.

“The Loan balance of $6.5 million is as a result of the first advance under the Zijin Facility, following our payment to Silvercorp Metals Inc of a C$9.0 million termination fee. Subsequent to the quarter, on July 27, 2020, we requested an ad-

ditional drawdown of $5.5 million, which will bring the total drawn on the Zijin Facility to $12.0 million,” Goldfields said.

In fact, it was Silvercorp that had previously entered an agreement with fellow Canadian company Guyana Goldfields for Silvercorp to buy out their shares. That was until Zijin Mining Group Co, a leading global mining company specialising in gold, copper, zinc, and other mineral resource ex-

ploration and development – bettered their purchasing price and the conditions that were agreed upon.

Silvercorp was given an option to better Zijin’s price within a certain timeframe.

However, Silvercorp failed to make a superior offer, resulting in Guyana Goldfields accepting the offer of the Chinese mining company.

The agreement between the two was finalised at an annual and special meeting of shareholders on July 27.

16 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

COVID-19 pandemic

APA calls for more testing in Indigenous villages …says border communities should be under watch

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xecutive Director of the Amerindian Peoples’ Association, Jean La Rose on Monday called for testing to be amplified in the Indigenous communities, as the cases of COVID-19 continue to rise in areas which remain highly vulnerable.

After a peak in cases in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) earlier this year, there was a proliferation of cases in the Moruca sub-district in Region One (BarimaWaini).

Already in Regions Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper

Essequibo), the situation is spiralling out of control and these three regions have now emerged as hotspots for the novel coronavirus.

While pointing to the trend of insufficient testing in Region One, she called for attention to be paid to the rise in cases in other hinterland regions, specifically those bordering Brazil.

“There is need for testing…In the early days in Region One at the Moruca sub-region, testing was only done on a very small scale and we feel as though the number of testing should increase greatly in those

communities, especially those that have been affected. Attention must be made to information coming out of those communities.

Attention must be paid to people who know those communities, that Itabac and Kanapang lies on the border of Brazil and know that there is interaction between those communities and so forth,” the APA Executive cautioned.

La Rose mentioned that some communities are still unaware of the implications brought on by COVID-19 and as such, awareness is needed to have them on board. The

Most COVID-19 cases in Region 9 are imported from Brazil – REO

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uthorities in Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) are alarmed at the increase of the coronavirus cases in the district – the majority of which they say are imported from neighbouring Brazil.

In one day alone, Region Nine recorded a shocking 19 positive COVID-19 cases, bringing the total active cases in the region to 36.

In an interview with Guyana Times, the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Carl Parker, revealed that the majority of these cases originated from neighbouring Brazil – where there is an outbreak of the virus with more than 2,480,888 confirmed cases and 88,470 deaths.

Guyana – Brazil’s international border at the Takutu River Bridge – was officially closed to prevent the spread of the deadly disease, but Brazilians are still making their way into Guyana.

“The cases are basically imported cases from Brazil.

We have some level of local transmission, but by and large, they are imported.

Especially down in the SouthCentral Rupununi,” the REO explained during a telephone interview.

He pointed out that the residents within the region

Regional Executive Officer Carl Parker

are going about their daily business as though the country has returned to normalcy.

“We have been advocating for the measures to be put in place, but people are just not adhering to them. Measures are there, information are there, but just that residents they are just carrying on like things are normal,” Parker explained.

Moreover, the REO expressed concerns that residents are also hiding these trespassers in their community.

“We had reports that was confirmed by Toshao of Aishalton that residents are encouraging relatives to

come across the border and hiding them in the village.”

He added, “Everybody coming from the border has to be quarantined, but the residents are not complying and hiding their relatives in the villages, and the Toshaos have not been proactive enough,” Parker concluded.

Just recently, the South Rupununi District Council (SRDC) had ordered a complete lockdown for 21 villages in that district. This was in light of coronavirus being detected in Indigenous communities across the country.

After the outbreak earlier this year, the District Council had blocked several illegal crossings along the GuyanaBrazil border, in order to reinforce the porous border.

In a subsequent release, the SRDC had said due to the inadequate healthcare systems and supplies in the region, residents are extremely vulnerable to diseases, especially the novel coronavirus.

The region’s first confirmed COVID-19 case was a dual citizen who had entered Guyana illegally from Brazil.

He later escaped from a treatment facility in Guyana and returned to Brazil. Several persons would have been exposed here to COVID-19 as a result of his movements.

Young people attacked, robbed at Soesdyke by bicycle bandit

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olice on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) have launched an investigation into an allegation that a resident of Den Heuvel Soesdyke, EBD, is attacking, beating and robbing young people in the village and surrounding areas.

An angry resident expressed fear of having their kids walk alone, with the possibility of them being robbed or hurt in the process.

Guyana Times understands that just recently the man allegedly punched a

10-year-old girl in her stomach, after which he took her money and mobile phone.

Regional Commander Kurleigh Simon, when contacted, explained that he only learned of the issue on Tuesday, and explained that the robberies were not reported to the police.

Simon said after hearing of the incident, he instructed ranks at Timehri to “look into it.”

“The Regional Chairman was also involved, and we are looking into it... If per-

sons are with information of that nature, then they should come forth to the police,” he said.

The Commander further underscored they are in the process of locating the suspect with the intention of interrogating him about the accusations.

“We are trying to locate the young man to know what directions we will go with.”

The Commander, however, promised to make every effort to have the issue sorted as soon as possible.

political situation has also created a negative imprint in the way people view the issue. The APA has been sensitising villagers through their initiatives but more is needed.

She said the National COVID-19 Task Force should seek assistance from persons on the ground to better manage the situation and moreover, prevent it from escalating further.

“I want to stress the need for awareness in the communities. You have people who are still doubting if COVID-19 exists, that it has health implications as we have been hearing all along.

Then we have the whole political scenario, where that has been infiltrated into the COVID issue and make peo-

Executive Director of the Amerindian Peoples’ Association, Jean La Rose

ple disbelieve us or people just not wanting to feel that it should be dealt with.”

She said, “Relying on human resources that have the experience and knowledge is what the Task Force can

do. There is need for support of the health authorities. I can’t overstress the need in terms of PPEs, sanitisation, beds, quarantine facilities, increased human resources.”

The APA has been amplifying their efforts to assist Indigenous communities by providing supplies to hundreds of families across the country. However, the health and agricultural systems are in need of assistance and local economies have been seriously impacted.

Health centres facing supply shortages were restocked through their donations, and households across the villages were given hampers to sustain their families.

In Region Nine, COVID-19 cases increased by 19 on Monday.

Communities in Linden under threat of massive erosion, floods

S

everal communities in Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) are now experiencing massive erosion and flooding as the inclement weather pattern continues.

Residents in areas such as Block 22, Wisroc, Buck Hill and Blueberry Hill are now registering concerns as homes and yards are flooded as they point to improper drainage systems.

In other instances, roads are suffering from massive erosion. At Phase 1B Wisroc, residents have indicated that the runoff of water from the roadways are causing yards to flood during heavy rains.

As such, they are calling for enhanced drainage systems. Others are complaining that in some cases, the drains are filled with sand and are clogged as a result, while some residents have highlighted that there are no drainage systems in place.

At Block 22, Wismar residents pointed out that the roads in the community are not maintained and continue to erode. They also noted that some of the drainage systems are inadequate.

This publication visited the area during heavy rainfall on Sunday and witnessed firsthand, the flooding and erosion of roads and parapets.

A resident who highlighted her concerns said the road which runs parallel to her yard has not been main-

tained in years.

“For as long as I’m living here, this road never does (upgraded), and I’m living here almost 20 years.

Because of this, it’s causing the yard to flood and erosion.

This is what happening for as long as I’ve been here”, the

resident explained, as she pointed to an eroded section of road as rainwater gushed in on her yard. In an attempt to stop the water, some residents of Block 22 managed to fill sandbags and place sand along their premises.

Another resident pleaded with the authorities to look into the situation.

“We’ve been suffering for many years now. When the rain falls the road break away, wash away and the water come in our yard. When the water come in our yard

it does get swampy.

This cause the posts that holding up the house to rotten. We need something to be done about this road. It’s too long we suffering. Every time they fixing the roads up to one spot. They fixing the roads in front and forget about we at the back here. So, we need them to come and look into this matter as soon as possible”, the resident pleaded.

This publication also spoke to Environmental Engineer Samuel Wright as it relates to a severely eroded section of road at the site of the Dakoura Creek at Wismar.

An underlying culvert, Wright noted, is presently under threat and a significant amount of the road has already eroded. The engineer noted that he fears the worse if the situation is not rectified. Residents have placed a sign at the section of the road, warning motorists to desist from driving along that section to avoid fatality.

“It’s a threat. I’m afraid that sometime there might be a lot more water and this (road) will get soft and it caves in”, Wright indicated.

17

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

The APNU/AFC is holding on to a shameful narrative

Dear Editor, The present impasse created by the APNU/AFC cabal can be summed up in one sentence, that is, “the rantings of a bully, a party that has lost the election beyond the shadow of a doubt.”

These are also costly rantings in that billions of dollars have been funnelled into a process to block the final declaration of a successful election held on March 2, 2020, an election where the PPP/C have won. It has been five months on and the rantings continue, the incumbent looking in every which way they can pull off a massive fraud stunt with a legal cover to go with. Mark you well, all of this is going on in the very presence of the international community, if this is not the most brazen attempt by a bully, then what is?

But all of this has a simple explanation as we just have to take a step back into the last five years, and review the May 2015 elections. In that instance, the coalition claimed victory by a slim majority, just under 5000 votes.

The incumbent President, Mr Ramotar, complained of fraud being perpetrated in the form of fake SoPs, something akin to what Mingo submitted in this election in 2020.

However, The international observer groups were not convinced that this allegation could in any way significantly alter the result, coupled with the fact that the community was al-

ready committed to an alliance as the only true way to govern Guyana.

Therefore, the USA Ambassador, Brent Haardt, convinced Mr Ramotar to forgo his request for a recount and further advised him to challenge the result in an election petition.

Now juxtapose that against the March 2020 elections, in this instance there is a clear winner in the PPP/C with 15,416 votes. The incumbent has clearly lost the election but is hell-bent on staying in office by fraudulent means. In this regard, they are now trying to put a credible election process into disrepute. In fact, they are also discrediting every credible voice of reason that has overseen the process. The APNU/AFC is carrying out a shamefully stupid story, which they themselves are finding hard to believe.

To conclude our discussion today, the same process that brought the coalition to office in 2015 has not changed, it is the same process that is being followed now that the PPP/C have won. Any allegation, damning evidence, fraudulent votes or what have you has to be followed up in an election petition, but this has to be done after the swearing-in of the elected President. The rules of the game have not changed.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

Put an end to the coalition’s grab for power immediately

Dear Editor, Guyanese have to put a stop to the coalition’s push for dictatorship immediately. These idiots (sorry, but they are very disrespectful) continue to lie, defend and ask us to subscribe to the following: 1. Mingo’s first fraudulent submission countersigned by none other than Volda Lawrence, the big PNC Chairperson.

2. Mingo’s second fraudulent submission.

3. Lowenfield’s first fraudulent report based on Mingo’s results.

4. All of the PNC allegations of trumped-up charges of fraud and dead persons voting, long after the entire wall of observers declared free transparent fair elections.

5. Lowenfield’s second

fraudulent results when he just axed 115,000 votes from the recount results, because he thought that was the right thing to do. This after the entire process established by GECOM for certifying valid votes was completed and stamped approved by Caricom elections officials.

6. Lowenfield’s third fraudulent report based on Mingo’s declarations, which added an additional 15,000 imaginary votes to the total votes cast. (Our courts have scrapped both fraudulent sets, and since ruled the recount the only valid set of results, upholding the decision of the CCJ.) 7. Lowenfield’s disregard and disrespect for the Representation Of the People Act (ROPA), GECOM regulations, the

GECOM Chairperson, all sane Guyanese who reject the PNC dictatorship, when he walked out of the last GECOM Commission meeting like a big boy refusing to answer the GECOM Chairperson.

We cannot any more appeal to reason from the coalition, because they have consistently demonstrated they have none. They have been making fools of an entire nation. The world knows the coalition lost the election, but they want to ‘try a thing’ and see if they could enslave us again as Burnham’s PNC did from ‘68 to ‘92. And they are serious. If there is no legal restraint to GECOM declaring the recount results, let them do so without further delay.

So far, one person has been charged with making

threats, and another has been caught in Essequibo for arson. Traditional hard-core supporters are urged not to fall into the PNC trap of 2001 when they called for action resulting in the deaths of the hundreds of African Guyanese the PNC promised to investigate but never did, and never will.

Families of lost loved ones of that era should start to come to terms with the reality that they will never get justice. Do not fall for the PNC’s game!

Let GECOM declare the results and our new Government be sworn in without further delay. I am an old pensioner who survived the Burnham years.

Don’t let us fall back there Respectfully, Jennifer Leigh

Where is this lawlessness originating from?

Dear Editor, As the number of COVID-19 cases increased in Guyana, various measures were put in place to combat this dreaded disease including the shutdown of business, villages, curfews etc. In addition to that, schools also feel the squeeze and various means were developed to assist the children in writing their exams.

Whilst it puts the children in a peculiar position, the schools remain closed but last week I saw a child in uniform, and upon inquiring, I was told that he attends a private school in Meten-MeerZorg and the school has been open for all classes for one week now.

I am somewhat peeved at this, and wonder who ordered the school to re-

open and why would parents risk the safety of their children by sending them to the school. In addition, what are the measures being taken to practice social distancing in the classrooms and are they being monitored by the health officials?

Editor, as the infection rate continues to increase, I’ve also observed various business places gradually opening their doors to business, including the restaurants and bars.

Whilst I understand that people have bills to pay, apparently Guyanese seem to be getting less cautious and scant regards are being given to the dangers lurking around. There are strict rules in regards to the hours businesses should

be open for business but at Cornelia Ida (CI), there’s a popular drinking spot and surprisingly, it’s open for business after 22:00h.

Since this deadly disease started, reason existed to suggest that bars are one of the most fortunate places for the spreading of this disease and it also travels when the place is cool. Out of curiosity, I am wondering why the police are allowing these places to open at night?

Why is this lawlessness going on, are they learning from this current political situation that Guyana is presently experiencing?

Respectfully, Sahadeo Bates

The epithet for “the hand that shakes with a closed fist” Dear Editor, An epithet may be referred to as a byname or, an adjective, or descriptive phrases that express the quality characteristics of a person or thing with different shades of meaning, incorporating positive or negative or a combination of both elements, allowing a nickname to roll off the tongue easily and quickly. A few examples may be mentioned for easy reference: Richard “The Lionheart”; Muhammad “The Messenger of Allah”; Shri RamaMaryada Purushuttam “The Man who is Supreme in Power”; Christ “The Good Shepherd”; Gandhi “The Mahatma”; Jim Reeves “Gentleman Jim”; Alexander “The Great”; Lata Mangeshkar “The Nightingale”; Abaddon “The Angel of the Abyss”; Donna Summer “The Queen of Disco” etc.

In Guyana, it is so easy to pick up a nickname or, what is popularly known as a “false name.” A person may have several names and may be referred to as “better known as,” for the sake of associating better familiarity. From village days to liming in the street, from going to school to a working environment, from growing up at home to finding a better half, one can accumulate another pet reference or pick up another second name.

You can have a ton of fun, knock yourself out, “laff till yu belly buss,” remembering nicknames for family members, relatives, friends, associates, fellow workers, the boss or others!

David is a very popular name

throughout the universe and is often shortened to Dave. It may arrogate or create positive or negative attributes if one may appropriate the name not necessarily from a scriptural perspective, but from an abundance of circumstantial incidents, referring to a broad analysis of matters that may be interpreted as accidental or coincidental.

In our midst, is there a David that may bear the epithet of “A Mighty Man of War?” Mr “G” is a quiet “D” who hides in the shadow of the dark, spurting venomous poison in a sly manner and applauding his front runners to raise the bar of “slo fiya, mo fiya” to a higher level.

Can we pinpoint a David that may be described as, “The Sweet Psalmist of Israel?” Oh, we do have a Mr “G” who kneels on his knees, fumbling while mumbling, kissing innocent babies, who knows where, twisting tongues while slyly smiling with a smirk, shifting the goal post, twisting words with a forked tongue but loves to dwell in the courts, certainly with no good intentions.

Who is the man or woman for the job? How easy or difficult is it to anoint a David with the famous or infamous term, “Thou Art The man?” Unfortunately, if there is a David whom the cap fits, then the picture is painted with “doom and gloom” and not “spice and everything nice.” Hurray for Mr “G,” who took Guyana into the Guinness Book of Records for infamy.

Who is the man to thwart the will of the people with skullduggery activities? Isn’t he the man with his

knees on democracy in Guyana while colluding by approving fictitious and inaccurate Mingo’s and Lowenfield’s fraudulent numbers and reports?

Whose hands are stained with illegal contractual agreements and a bankrupt economy causing depression, starvation and poverty to the Guyanese population?

Who approves the wrongful attacks on Guyana’s friends and neighbours and refutes the courts’ decisions and findings? Who is the man raping the Treasury and living the good life while people cannot find work and money to survive?

Who is the miscreant man fetching an endless list of misdemeanours and disregards all rules and regulations while shunning law and order? There is only one David who is “fit and propa” in the diabolical race who can run faster than Low while lying low to be declared a winner in “something.” Can we identify a man in the public domain who can be termed with the phrase, “A Man After God’s Own Heart?” Such a person should possess faith, show faithfulness, prove his devotion and provide contrition.

You would think this shouldn’t pose a problem because most Guyanese are a set of “God-fearing” people who are religious-minded, church, mandir or masque attendees, law abiders, moral and righteous upholders, peaceful and loving people and patriotic and patronal citizens. Then again, there remains a small handful of merry men and women who represent everything that does not portray the dignity and

honour that is associated with decency and honesty.

This bandwagon is led by a tyrant leader who is not only ruthless and heartless but deceiving and disrespectful. Being a David, coincidentally, was too much pressure and the expectation was too high for the bar to fly the banner of truth and sincerity, dominated with grace and mercy and ingrained with kindness and greatness. Four significant epithets are highlighted and scrutinised for auditing, analysing, considering and applying to the one and only dashing but devious dude who is detrimental and devout to a lost cause. Care to take a swing and find any significance or semblance in the application to the ingenuity of illogical madness?

Our very own learned and scholarly historian who has forgotten his sense of sanity and decency has been categorised with the epithet of “sanctimonious gangster” by the Caribbean’s political scientist, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, Chairman for Caricom. Mr “G” has rationalised that Caricom’s creditable election recount result is not valid after inviting Caricom himself to observe and scrutinise the election process because he entertained doubts with the Carter Team (COVID-19 risk is bull) and blocked them from returning but termed his one-time pals from Caricom as the most legitimate interlocutor on the Guyana Commission.

The Secretary General of the Organisation of American States (OAS), Luis Almagro, asked the

“man for all times” if he wants democracy or abyss for Guyana. More epithets were considered by some officials, Deborah Misir, former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Policy, US Department of Labor and Douglas Meurs, former Political Advisor and Director for Somalia in the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

“Do you want to be remembered as a Statesman or a rogue President?

You have that choice to be remembered respectfully and in history,” the former bureaucrat said.

Choices of epithets are not limited but full of variances as the man in demand who cannot command is not “The Man for All Seasons” because his engagements are limited and he has all the time in the world to do nothing about everything.

Here are a few epithets to ponder on and to identify the characters as you try to relax from Guyana’s political arena and attempt to get some “shut-eye”, waiting for Thursday to come when we will have the decision from Guyana’s COA: “starcross’d lovers”; “ The Ghost Who Walks”; “The Man of Steel”; “The Dark Night” and “ The Wonder Boy”; “The Prince of Peace”; “The Mother Of God”; “Father of Gods and Men”; “ The King”; “The Boss”; Hope you can have some fun and enjoy. Without any effort, you can pin an epithet on the man who wants to shake hands with a closed fist because he daily provides you with salt to rub in the wound!

Respectfully, Jai Lall

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guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

Regional

Brazilian medics seek ICC probe of Bolsonaro Govt’s COVID-19 response

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group of unions representing Brazilian health workers have urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate President Jair Bolsonaro's Government for crimes against humanity over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

Brazil has the world's highest number of coronavirus cases and deaths after the United States.

The umbrella group on Monday filed a complaint to the court, accusing the Government of being "criminally negligent in its management of the COVID-19 pandemic – risking the lives of healthcare professionals and of members of the Brazilian society."

"The unions believe it is the first suit of its kind to be filed against a government for large-scale death

and illness due to public health failings," they said in a statement.

The ICC – established in 2002 in The Hague to achieve justice for the world's worst crimes, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and geno-

cide – is under no obligation to consider such complaints.

Brazil has recorded almost 2.44 million coronavirus cases and more than 87,000 related deaths.

Hospitals are struggling to cope with an influx of patients, as infections are

peaking in new locations across the country.

Bolsonaro has downplayed the pandemic, comparing the virus to a "little flu" and attacking stay-athome measures imposed by local authorities to contain it.

The far-right leader tested positive for the virus himself on July 7, but said on Saturday he was now negative – crediting his controversial use of the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine, a drug with no proven effectiveness against COVID-19.

On Monday, the 65-yearold President was seen outside his official residence in the capital, Brasilia, where he removed his mask in public, greeting supporters and posing for pictures with them. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

by Maduro as Electricity Minister last year after a series of blackouts, had accepted bribes and kickbacks in exchange for awarding “lucrative” supply equipment contracts for Venezuela’s State power company, Corpoelec.

Pompeo also accused Motta and Eustiquio Jose Lugo Gomez, a former Deputy Minister of Finance at the Electricity Ministry, of misappropriating public

funds to enrich themselves.

Tuesday’s action bars both former officials and their immediate family members from travelling to the United States.

The officials were previously blacklisted by the United States last year in a decision that froze any of their US assets and generally prohibits Americans from dealing with them.

“This designation reaffirms the US commitment

to combating corruption in Venezuela,” Pompeo said.

The United States and dozens of other countries have recognised Opposition Leader Juan Guaidó as Venezuela’s legitimate president, regarding Maduro’s 2018 re-election as a sham. But Maduro has remained in power, backed by the country’s military and by Russia, China, and Cuba. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has continued to tout hydroxychloroquine as a treatment for the new coronavirus [Adriano Machado/Reuters]

Pompeo bars 2 former Venezuelan officials from travelling to US

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he United States on Tuesday imposed sanctions on two former officials of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s Government, barring them from travelling to the United States over accusations they were involved in significant corruption.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement that the two former officials, including Luis Motta, who was sacked

Observer makes history

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he Jamaica Observer created history Tuesday with the staging of the world's first-ever virtual fashion show, featuring designers from six countries.

The show — presented in partnership with Sagicor, The Best Dressed Chicken, and H&L Rapid True Value — has been endorsed by global fashion icon Naomi Campbell, who has Jamaican heritage.

“I am so happy that Novia McDonald-Whyte and the Jamaica Observer have brought together designers from the Caribbean, Canada and Nigeria for a virtual celebration of fashion. If the last few months have taught us anything, it is that we have the power to create our own narrative and our own icons. I can't wait to see the fresh, new interpretations of style,” she said.

The global digital event spotlighted 13 designers.

From Jamaica are James Black, Mina Robertson, Ashley Rousseau, Keenea Linton George, and Carlton Brown. From Barbados: Nefertari Caddle and Candi Nichols.

From The Bahamas: Theodore Eylett.

From Trinidad and Tobago: Meiling Esau and Robert Young. From

Global fashion icon Naomi Campbell

Canada: Jamaican-born Kirk Pickersgill and Greta Constantine; and from Nigeria Mai Atafo.

“The last few months have forced us to engage our creative muscles in ways we have never before.

The live experiences that defined our content simply evaporated, and so we were challenged to rethink everything,” said McDonaldWhyte, the Observer' senior associate editor, lifestyle & social content.

“Working through a crisis to bring new ideas to the fore meant that we had to strengthen existing relationships and forge new connections across the world.” she said. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

T&T man jailed for beating wife 2 days in a row

Chile's President removes Interior, Foreign, Defence Ministers

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hilean President Sebastian Pinera has reshuffled key parts of his Cabinet, replacing his interior chief and five other ministers, in an effort to shore up his fractious ruling coalition following a rebellion over a controversial pensions bill passed last week.

The second reshuffle in nine months of almost all of the President’s inner political circle saw a swing toward conservatism in the political affiliations of new Ministers, also in the Foreign, Defence, Social Affairs, presidency and Communications portfolios.

“I call on this new Cabinet and all of the Chile

Vamos coalition to begin a new chapter for our Government and for our country, with a true constructive spirit, conviction, unity, faith and hope,” Pinera said at a swearing-in ceremony at the presidential palace in the capital Santiago.

Commentators noted the hard line of the new Cabinet Ministers. Alvaro Elizalde, President of Chile’s Socialist Party, said: “The President has opted for internal order, but not to win over, or try to win over, citizens.”

The reshuffle comes as the centre-right President faces his toughest year in office so far, with massive social protests from October to

Left-wing Chilean Congresswoman Pamela Jiles, who represents some of the capital Santiago's poorest suburbs, charged through the Congress chamber in a pink cape and feathered fans to celebrate the pension bill's approval at an early stage [Rodrigo Garrido/Reuters file]

December and the combined economic and social blow of the coronavirus outbreak, which began in March.

Last week, Chile Vamos lawmakers backed an Opposition bill allowing cit-

izens to draw down 10 per cent of their pensions from the country’s private retirement system, something the Government had staunchly opposed. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Colombian Mayor hailed for virus strategy has COVID

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he Mayor of the Colombian city of Medellín, Daniel Quintero, says he has tested positive for coronavirus.

Quintero has been praised for his early and data-driven approach to containing the virus in Colombia's second-largest city. He began holding pre-

paredness meetings as early as January, when many politicians did not yet take the threat from the virus seriously.

His strategy seemed to pay off in the early stages of the pandemic. On April 21, only two people had died of COVID in Medellín, while 29 had died in Cali, which

has fewer inhabitants.

But in recent weeks the number of cases in Medellín and surrounding Antioquia province has shot up and now the mayor himself has COVID. He told Colombian radio that his love of coffee may be to blame. "I have a lot of coffee and in order to drink

it, you have to take your mask off, so that may have been when I got it," he said.

He has urged fellow coffee lovers to suppress their urge for a cup or at least carry their own thermos flask to minimise the risk of contracting the virus from cups. (BBC News)

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Claxton Bay, Trinidad man, who beat his wife on two consecutive days because he believed she was being unfaithful, has been jailed for 14 months.

In a virtual court appearance, the man admitted that he used his hands and a pot spoon to assault his 36-year-old wife.

According to the facts read to San Fernando magistrate Kerianne Byer, around 10:00h on July 23, the woman was in the bathroom of their home when her husband approached her.

He accused her of having an intimate relationship with the neighbour and began beating her about her body with his fists.

The couple then went to bed.

The next day around 16:30h he again attacked

her.

This time the blows were inflicted with a silver pot spoon. The woman called the Police and when they arrived, she pointed at her husband, saying “Since last night he beating me and today he pick up a pot spoon and beat me all over my body.

Admitting that he assaulted her, the man told the Police, “I really hit she some lash officer.”

The woman then showed the Police the pot spoon and the officer took possession of it.

The husband was arrested and taken to the St Margaret’s Police Station.

The woman was taken to the health facility for medical treatment.

The husband was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS

Coronavirus: German officials “very concerned” by rising cases

Oil falls as US stimulus package faces tough talks

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il prices fell on Tuesday as US lawmakers prepared to wrangle over an economic stimulus package and investors worried about a rise in coronavirus cases worldwide.

Brent crude futures fell 19 cents, or 0.4 per cent, to settle at US$43.22 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures fell 56 cents, or 1.4 per cent, to settle at US$41.04 a barrel.

Brent is still on track for a fourth monthly rise, and US crude is expected to gain for a third month.

US Republicans on Monday unveiled a new coronavirus relief proposal hammered out with the White House, four days before millions of Americans lose expanded unemployment benefits.

The package is facing opposition both from Democrats and from some Republicans, however.

“There’s concern with the stimulus out of Washington, which is critical to the oil complex and to supporting demand, especially for gasoline,” said John Kilduff, partner at Again Capital LLC in New York. Kilduff added that the longer the talks drag out, the more it will weigh on market sentiment.

Also a negative for prices, US consumer confidence ebbed in July amid a flare-up in COVID-19 infections across the country.

Cases worldwide have risen to around 16.57 million people.

Investors are awaiting the outcome of the US Federal Reserve’s policy-setting panel meeting on Tuesday and Wednesday. The panel is expected to reiterate that interest rates will remain near zero for years to come.

This month, Brent crude has fallen deeper into contango, a market structure in which the future price of the commodity is higher than the spot price, encouraging a build-up of inventories.

October prices were as much as 53 cents per barrel above September levels, compared with a 1 cent difference in early July.

“This suggests that the tightening we were seeing in the market has eased somewhat, with the demand outlook more uncertain given the resurgence of COVID-19 cases in some regions,” said Warren Patterson, ING’s Head of Commodities Strategy.

US crude inventories fell by 6.8 million barrels in the week to July 24 to 531 million barrels, data from industry group the American Petroleum Institute showed on Tuesday, compared with analysts’ expectations for a build of 357,000 barrels. US Government data is due today.

Elsewhere, Indian refiners are cutting crude processing and shutting units for maintenance as local fuel demand falls and global refining margins are weak, officials at the companies said.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

“Tough few months ahead”– experts on India’s coronavirus crisis

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sharp increase in India’s coronavirus cases in recent weeks has raised concerns over the state of its healthcare infrastructure as well as fears of an extended crisis.

Nearly 48,000 new reported cases on Tuesday brought India’s tally close to 1.5 million, making it the world’s third-most affected country behind only the United States and Brazil.

The South Asian nation has reported 33,425 deaths so far.

Last week, a study conducted by the National Centre for Disease Control and released by the Federal Health Ministry found that approximately 23 per cent of Delhi’s population of 20 million have had the novel coronavirus.

Despite the sharp in-

crease in cases, the testing rate in the country remains low, with an average of 180 tests a day per million of population.

To ramp up testing capacity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched three facilities in Mumbai, Kolkata and Noida on the outskirts of Delhi.

Officials said each facility is capable of testing as many as 10,000 samples a day.

“It is going to be a tough few months ahead, but there is effectively no brake on the virus, and I don’t expect a decline for quite some time,” Dr Ramanan Laxminarayan, Director of the Washingtonbased Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics and Policy, told Al Jazeera in an email interview. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Lothar Wieler warned this could be the start of a “second wave”

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he Head of Germany’s public health agency has said he is “very concerned” by rising infections in the country.

“We are in the middle of a rapidly developing pandemic,” Lothar Wieler, Head of the Robert Koch Institute

(RKI), told reporters.

Wieler said Germans had become “negligent” and urged people to wear masks and respect social distancing and hygiene rules.

In the past week, the country has recorded 3611 new infections.

The warning comes as countries across Europe grapple with new infections and the problem of travellers moving across the continent for the summer holidays.

On Tuesday Germany issued a travel warning for three regions in Spain - Aragón, Catalonia and Navarra - which have seen a recent spike in infections.

It comes after the UK imposed a 14-day quarantine on all arrivals from Spain - a move Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called “unjust”.

Germany announced on Monday a programme of free, mandatory coronavirus testing for travellers returning from a list of high-risk

countries. The list currently includes Brazil, Turkey and the US, and officials said it will be updated daily.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Wieler asked people for the first time to wear a mask outdoors if they cannot maintain a physical distance of at least 1.5 metres (5ft).

Previously the guidance had been to wear masks indoors in public.

The head of the RKI said Germans must stop the virus once again spreading “rapidly and uncontrollably” by following hygiene and distancing measures.

Overall, Germany has recorded 206,242 cases and 9122 deaths. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Malaysia’s Najib gets 12 years in jail for 1MDB-linked graft case

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ormer Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has been sentenced to serve 12 years in jail after a court in Kuala Lumpur found him guilty of corruption in the first of several cases linked to the alleged theft of billions of dollars from the state fund, 1MDB. Tuesday’s ruling makes Najib the first Malaysian leader to be convicted of corruption.

But the 67-year-old remains free as Judge Mohamad Nazlan Ghazali granted a stay order on the execution of Najib’s sentence, pending an appeal.

The guilty verdict against Najib relates to his role in diverting an estimated 42 million ring-

Malaysia’s former Prime Minister Najib Razak arrives at court on Tuesday morning. A Judge found him guilty on all seven counts

git (US$9.87 million) from SRC International, a unit of 1MDB, into his personal bank accounts. The Judge had found the former Prime Minister guilty on all seven

charges filed against him.

“I find that the prosecution has successfully proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. I, therefore, find the accused guilty and con-

vict the accused on all seven charges,” Mohamad said.

He then ordered Najib to pay a fine of 210 million ringgit (US$49 million) and gave him 12 years in jail on one count of abuse of power, 10 years each for three counts of criminal breach of trust and 10 years each for three counts of money laundering.

But the Judge also ordered the sentences to run concurrently, meaning Najib will serve 12 years in prison.

The conviction comes just six days after the high court ordered Najib to pay the Government as much as 1.69 billion ringgit (US$400 million) in unpaid taxes and penalties, covering the years from 2011 to 2017. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Australia tells US it has Afghan Govt, Taliban agree no intention of injuring Eid al-Adha ceasefire important China ties T

T

he United States and close ally Australia held high-level talks on China and agreed on the need to uphold a rules-based global order, but the Australian Foreign Minister stressed Canberra’s relationship with Beijing was important and it had no intention of hurting it.

At a joint news conference on Tuesday, Pompeo praised Australia for standing up to pressure from China and said Washington and Canberra would continue to work together to reassert the rule of law in the South China Sea, where China has been pressing its claims. That has led to friction with other countries in the region and concerns about freedom of navigation.

Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said the United States and Australia shared a commitment to the rule of law and had reiterated their commit-

ment to hold countries to account for breaches, such as China’s erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong.

She said the two sides had also agreed to form a working group to monitor and respond to harmful disinformation and would look at ways to expand cooperation on infectious diseases, including access to vaccines.

At the same time, she said Australia did not agree on everything with Beijing - or with the United States.

“The relationship that we have with China is important.

And we have no intention of injuring it,” she said. “But nor do we intend to do things that are contrary to our interests.”

She said Australia and the United States had a shared interest in an Asia-Pacific region that was free, prosperous and secure and were broadly aligned on issues, including China. (Excerpt from Reuters)

he Taliban has announced a threeday ceasefire in Afghanistan during the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha starting on Friday.

The move, announced on Tuesday, could signal the start of the long-delayed peace talks after President Ashraf Ghani signalled negotiations with the Taliban could start next week.

The Taliban proposed the ceasefire after President Ghani described progress in a contentious prisoner exchange that has thrown up numerous hurdles to talks starting.

“To demonstrate the Government’s commitment to peace, the Islamic Republic will soon complete the release of 5000 Taliban prisoners,” Ghani told officials, referring to the number of inmates the Government originally pledged to free under the US-Taliban deal in February.

“With this action, we look forward to the start of direct negotiations with the Taliban in a week’s time,” Ghani added.

The President’s spokesperson Sediq Sediqqi told the AFP news agency that Kabul would observe the ceasefire, but cautioned the temporary nature of it did not go far enough.

Kabul’s readiness to start talks comes after the Taliban last week indicated they, too, are prepared to negotiate after the Eid holidays.

In a statement, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid ordered the group’s fighters “to refrain from carrying out any operation against the enemy during the three days and nights of Eid al-Adha so ... our countrymen would spend the Eid with confidence and joy”.

But any attack “by the enemy” would be met with force, he added. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

20

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES

Listen and observe, but don’t buy into someone else’s plan. Consider what you can do on your own and how best to use your skills to get ahead. Romance is favored.

TAURUS

You know what you need and want. Set your sights and standards high.

Consider who is on your side and who isn’t. Align yourself with like-minded people and reach for the stars.

(March 21April 19)

(April 20May 20)

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

Don’t buy into gossip.

Verify everything you hear and look for secrets, motives and underhandedness before you get involved in a joint venture.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

An innovative approach to business deals and your personal life will help you excel. Share your thoughts to tweak someone’s interest.

Don’t let a challenge stand in your way.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Verify information you receive before sharing it with others. You’ll make a difference if you work meticulously and are mindful of others.

Love, romance and self-improvements are favored.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

You will succeed if you are practical and intent on doing your best. Your diligence will win you praise as well as rewards. Don’t sacrifice your dreams for anyone or anything.

LIBRA

Clear up uncertainties that stand in your way.

Take a peaceful approach, even if someone else raises his or her voice. Handle things with care.

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SUDOKU

Before you make an investment, be sure you can afford to put your money on the line. Look for safeguards to ensure that you only have to deliver what you agreed to do.

Don’t let the compliSAGITTARIUS ments you receive lead you (Nov. 23down the wrong path. Stick Dec. 21) to the rules and to the people you know you can trust.

Make home and family priorities.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Review an exciting prospect and formulate a plan to move forward. A change at home or to a meaningful partnership will help ease a stressful situation. Physical activity is encouraged.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Look for a position or business arrangement that will allow you to use your skills to bring in more cash.

Personal training, physical challenges and romance are priorities.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Slow down. If you push too hard or too fast, you’ll fall short. Avoid controversy at home and with close friends or relatives. Strive to get things done on time.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

21

Former San Francisco 49er Dana Stubblefield convicted of rape

F

ormer San Francisco 49er Dana Stubblefield was convicted on Monday of the rape of a developmentally-disabled woman, after Prosecutors said he lured the victim to his home with the promise of a babysitting job.

A jury found Stubblefield, 49, guilty of rape by force, oral copulation by force and false imprisonment, and acquitted him of raping a person incapable of giving consent, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.

Jurors also found that Stubblefield used a gun during the assault, Prosecutors said.

Stubblefield could face 15 years to life in prison. He was a defensive lineman for the San Francisco 49ers and the Oakland Raiders.

The verdict came after a ninemonth trial, and five years after the victim reported the April 2015 sexual assault to Police, the newspaper said.

A day before the assault, Stubblefield contacted the then 31-year-old woman on a babysitting website and arranged an interview, Prosecutors said.

According to a report by the Morgan Hill Police Department,

the interview lasted about 20 minutes. She later received a text from Stubblefield saying he wanted to pay her for her time that day, and she went back to the house.

After raping her, Stubblefield gave her US$80 and let her go, ac-

cording to the report. The woman immediately went to Police and reported the rape. DNA evidence matched that of Stubblefield, the report said.

Defence Attorneys argued that there was no rape and that the woman consented to sex.

Allen Sawyer, one of Stubblefield’s trial Attorneys, described the incident as a “paid encounter for sex”. He said the defence team was precluded from showing the jury strong evidence that would have supported the contention.

“There’s a lot of information that we have that the jury was not allowed to have, that we think would have been impactful to their decision,” Sawyer told the Chronicle on Monday after the verdict was read.

Sawyer said Defence Attorneys would seek a new trial.

“We expect to keep fighting

Target for Premier League with partial crowds is October 1, says Sports Minister

Khabib Nurmagomedov

for Mr Stubblefield’s innocence,” Sawyer said. “We will clear his name, and we look forward to fighting this out in the courts.

This is just the first battle.”

Stubblefield was remanded to jail without bail, pending sentencing.

Stubblefield was drafted by the 49ers in 1993 and named to the NFL All-Pro team from 1994 through 1997. He spent the next three seasons with Washington, then played two more years with the 49ers and a final season with the Raiders before retiring at the start of the 2004 season.

In his final season, the NFL fined Stubblefield and three other Raiders for testing positive for steroids. In 2009, a federal judge fined him US$5000 and placed him on two years’ probation for lying to an IRS agent about his steroid use, the Chronicle said. (The Guardian) Justin Gaethje

T

he Government has dashed hopes fans could be back inside stadiums for the start of the new Premier League season on September 12 with the Sports Minister, Nigel Huddleston, confirming officials were working towards October 1.

A series of test events have started to be trialled in cricket grounds – with 1000 fans being allowed to watch Surrey play Middlesex last Sunday. The world snooker championship and the final day of Glorious Goodwood will follow this week.

“The October 1 deadline is certainly the target that we’re looking at,” Huddleston said. “If you look at various announcements we’ve made, some have been put forward, some have been pushed back, but that’s a pretty firm one.

In the whole scheme of things, it’s not that far away – 60-something days and we’ll be there – so I would be surprised if that date was moved.”

The Community Shield and Women’s Super League matches are believed to be under consideration as test events, but Huddleston warned football fans that if they didn’t obey social distancing rules in test events, it would push back the reopening of stadiums.

“There are particular challenges with certain sports,” he said.

“People have got to realise if you don’t behave, you won’t have more

Khabib to fight Gaethje on October 24, Dana White confirms

people in stadiums. They’ve got to take that personal responsibility and realise that if they don’t behave appropriately, they’re risking the game for everybody.”

Huddleston also signalled to the Premier League that it should do more to help lower-league clubs survive the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and warned that the Government could not continue to help through the furlough scheme and loans forever.

“We are having conversations with all the key players. The Premier League has advanced £125 million so far and if more’s needed, then we’ll have those conversations,” he said. “But the public wouldn’t expect us to be doling out public money if there’s not also some activity and personal sacrifice by the individual clubs as well.

“There’s a responsibility for the football pyramid to look very carefully at the dynamics and the financial flows. There’s a lot of money in British football and we need to make sure that it first and foremost looks after itself.”

Huddleston took a similarly tough approach when asked whether the Government could help the Rugby Football Union, which is expected to cut 139 jobs and lose £107 million because of the pandemic.

“You’ve got to remember that over the last few months, many sports entities, including grassroots, have taken advantage of the various Government schemes to the tune of tens, if not hundreds, of millions of pounds, whether it’s the furloughing or loans or any of the other initiatives out there,” he said. (The Guardian)

K

habib Nurmagomedov will face Justin Gaethje in a UFC lightweight unification fight on October 24, Dana White has confirmed.

There had been speculation Khabib would retire from the sport after losing his father at the age of 57 in July, although the Russian's Manager refuted that claim.

Gaethje stepped in to fight and beat Tony Ferguson at UFC 249 for the interim title after Khabib had to withdraw from the bout owing to travel restrictions amid the coronavirus pandemic.

UFC President White says the American will be Khabib's opponent when he returns to the octagon in three months' time.

"It's going to happen, tell you right here right now. That fight is going to happen," White told CNN. "Khabib versus Gaethje, October 24."

White said Khabib has had a difficult time since he lost his father Abdulmanap to complications following a COVID-19 infection.

"It's been very rough on him," he said. "His father was a hero to him; he loved his father; they had a very close relationship and it was very hard on him."

Khabib, who has won all 28 of his professional fights, beat Dustin Poirier at UFC 242 last September in his most recent bout to defend the lightweight title. (Sportsmax)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

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VACANCY

Dwain Dick hopes for the best in table tennis going forward ...expects more of the NSC

By Timothy Jaikarran

pandemic ends.

he Titans Table Tennis Club like every other club in Guyana has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, under the leadership of Coach Dwain

Q: How is the club coping at this time?

We were forced to adapt; so, to ensure that the future of the club was safe from a financial perspective, we had to really focus on our

T

to fully launch out. We are offering subjects for those who are interested in pursuing STEM careers. Our target population are secondary students, student athletes and adults. We don't want to expose the players to risk, so we advise most of them

Bond Clerk/Supervisor - Basic C.X.C- 1 Year work experience, Mima Décor, 8 Sheriff Street. 2270176/86, mimadecor12@gmail. com

Dick, ways have been found to help the players of the club maintain their fitness.

Dick sat down with Guyana Times Sport and answered a series of questions on how the club is coping and what it is aiming for when the

academic arm, the Titans Virtual Learning Academy, which was launched and of which most of the present members are a part of. We have been providing tuition in Maths for members since 2011, but this just pushed us

to just maintain their fitness at home, but mostly we watch videos posted by ITTF [International Table Tennis Federation].

Q: What are you guys doing at the moment?

“Keep rewarding mediocrity and you get mediocre performances” – Harper wants end of Windies 30s averages

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

NOW!

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

The time for us is dedicated mostly to academics, an area that athletes has to valve with sport, so this is an opportune time for us to catch up and be ahead of the school curriculum for them when school reopens. In terms of fitness, they were advised not to do any strength and conditioning unsupervised, just general fitness – skipping, and some basic plyometrics and cardio.

Q: What are your future plans?

A Junior Pro Tour, which can be on the ITTF calendar, involving juniors from North America, Latin America, the Caribbean and around the world. It was intended for this year, but COVID (happened). Hopefully, we can now get the sports ministry involved, along with the necessary approval, as this would ultimately push the sport in a professional direction, by creating jobs, generating income in a few sectors, boost sports tourism and allow the world to see us in a positive light. We

protect our associations, clubs, community clubs, etc. Something to consider would be relief funding for compliant associations as sponsorship wouldn't come easily for them to carry out their activities. I haven't seen one online fundraising active from our local associations, shows that there are no plans, just sitting like, “wuh come suh do”. That is not the way. Let us, as the sports associations, clubs, come up with ways to generate revenue for ourselves and our sponsors through activities that will promote sales for those companies’ products who have assisted in the past, and, by extension, generate income for ourselves so that we can run better programmes and

W

est Indies chief of selectors, Roger Harper believes it is critical for the team’s batsmen to improve their FirstClass cricket performances, in order to raise the current standards of selection.

Heading into the series, the team’s top batsmen averaged in their 30s; their performance during the series make for even more horrific reading. The batting average of the Windies’ batsmen in the series was 27.86 and stands out as one of the best for a series in the past several years.

In fact, it is the fourthbest for the team’s batsmen

Chief of selectors, Roger Harper

among all the series consisting of two or more matches since 2017.

The team’s highest batting average in a Test series consisting of at least

two matches since 2017 is 34.66 and that was against Zimbabwe in 2017.

For Harper, the improvement needed must begin at home.

“As far as our First-Class game is concerned, it is important for us to set standards for our players. I don’t think we can continue to be content with picking players averaging 30 in First-Class cricket; that has to change,” Harper told the Mason and Guest radio programme.

“Our international batsmen have to understand that when they get to our regional competition, they have to dominate and average 50 and 55. That’s what happens in the other international territories. Players looking to break into the team, that’s what they have to be aiming for.

“If we keep rewarding players for mediocrity, we are going to get mediocre performances.” (Sportsmax)

also hope to give out scholarships to student athletes writing the 2021 CSEC [Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate exams]. Our biggest objective is to, for the near future, … become elite in terms of TT performances. We wanted to cater mostly to elite athletes; that will be our main focus, to provide the environment and expertise, through more international training camps like the one involving Mr Christian Lillieroos. We will be going into equipment sales, to have everything readily available for the TT players.

Q: What is one thing you would like to see in sports?

There are many things that can be done to better not only TT but all sports. This time should be used by the sports min, NSC [National Sport Commission] and local associations to collaborate and come up with strategies to overhaul sports in the schools’ system;

come out better and stronger. I really would’ve like to see, since no sports going on locally, the NSC inviting the associations and leading the way on governance structure overhaul. Without improved governance we will keep operating in mediocrity. Moving forward out of this, for improved sports environment and development to take place, it must happen, if we’re serious. Sports will help play a serious role in our recovery from COVID, mentally and physically.

Q: Is there anything you would like to say to your players and sponsors?

To our players, sponsors and supporters, we cannot thank you enough for being there for us, through thick and thin. This is a rough time for us all, let's continue to support each other in any way we can. Unfortunately, all our events were cancelled, but we are a resilient people – One People, One Nation, One Destiny.(G7)

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

Stuart Broad takes 10 to mark 500th wicket with series victory

I

t was all about one man Stuart Broad, in claiming his 500th Test wicket on the last day, sealed his dominance over West Indies in this third

second innings pushed their lead to 398 runs, and Broad then claimed the wickets of opener John Campbell and nightwatchman Kemar Roach late on the third day

Roston Chase was West Indies’ Player of the Series for his 10 wickets and 157 runs

and final Test at Emirates Old Trafford and delivered England's fight back from 0-1 down in the series to reclaim the Wisden Trophy 2-1.

Broad's 10 wickets for the match, not to mention his highly-anticipated step into the 500 club, overshadowed Chris Woakes' five-wicket haul. But Woakes' contribution was no less important, given that England had to take eight wickets on a rain-affected last day to place their hands on the trophy, which will now be retired at Lord's.

Broad's 6 for 31 helped bowl West Indies out for 197 in response to England's first-innings 369, to which he had contributed a valuable 62 from just 45 deliveries after a mini-collapse had left the hosts 280 for 8.

Rory Burns' 90 plus half-centuries to Joe Root and Dom Sibley in England's

to put his side in command before Monday's washout. In

and fourth seam bowler, in history to claim 500 Test wickets – after a brief rain interruption early in the first session when he had Kraigg Brathwaite out lbw with a ball that kept low and struck the back pad in line with off stump.

Incidentally, Brathwaite was the 500th Test wicket for James Anderson, the other England player on the list, at Lord's in 2017.

Anderson now has 589 and, before play, backed Broad, who is four years his junior, to "take as many wickets as he wants".

Milestone achieved, Broad made way for Woakes to do his thing, but he returned to the attack to claim West Indies' final wicket with his first ball back, Jermaine Blackwood caught down the leg side by Jos Buttler. Broad finished as the leading wicket-taker for the series with 16 from two Tests at an average of 10.93.

If the scriptwriters had handed Broad a blank sheet of paper and asked him to pen the episode himself,

Chris Woakes had Shamarh Brooks caught behind

doing so, Broad spent from the close of play on Sunday until the final morning on Tuesday on 499 Test wickets.

Broad joined the 500 club – becoming the seventh man,

it's unlikely he would have changed a thing down to the timing of the rain, which had caused minimal disruption through the final day, but began to fall heavily within minutes of the close.

Stuart Broad leads England off the field

Woakes played his part beautifully as England's "Mr Dependable" and, one suspects in light of his reputation as one of the nicest blokes in cricket, he probably didn't begrudge Broad stealing the spotlight away from his fourth five-for in Tests.

Broad even had a hand in Woakes claiming his first scalp for the innings when Shai Hope skied his attempted pull and Broad ran in from mid-on to take the catch. Hope had reached his highest score of the series with 31, but with his side needing to bat out the day for the draw to retain the trophy, they needed much more.

There was still the potential for West Indies to hold on, with the likes of Shamarh Brooks, Blackwood, Roston Chase and Jason Holder in their line-up, but it was going to take something special. Woakes negated the threat of Brooks, whom he had caught behind for 22.

The tourists underlined how not to bat long with the run-out of Chase. Blackwood pushed Woakes towards cover point and set off for a run as Dom Bess swooped from backward point and fired the ball in brilliantly to the striker's end, catching Chase short of his ground.

Woakes then had Holder, Dowrich and Cornwall out, all lbw and all cheaply, before making way for Broad's finale to dismiss Blackwood, whose 95 in West Indies' first-Test victory remained their highest individual score of the series.

Broad missed that Test, much to his chagrin, but he responded beautifully with a new-ball spell of 3 for 1 in 14 balls that helped set up England's series-levelling victory in the second Test.

It was the kind of spell that

leaves team-mates, including Anderson, in awe, but it was just the beginning.

The third Test, the final instalment of the Wisden Trophy – England and West Indies will contest the Richards-Botham Trophy next time they meet – was iconic in many ways. Two sides with it all to play for, behind closed doors in the first international cricket to be played since the COVID-19 lockdown. But ultimately, it was all about one man. (ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD WEST INDIES 2ND INNINGS (TARGET: 399 RUNS) KC Brathwaite lbw b Broad 19 JD Campbell c Root b Broad 0 SD Hope c Broad b Woakes 31 SSJ Brooks c †Buttler b Woakes 22 RL Chase run out (Bess) 7 J Blackwood c †Buttler b Broad 23 JO Holder (c) lbw b Woakes 12 SO Dowrich † lbw b Woakes 8 RRS Cornwall lbw b Woakes 2 ST Gabriel not out 0 Extras (lb 1) 1 TOTAL (37.1 Ov, RR: 3.47) 129

Fall of wickets: 1-0 (John Campbell, 1.3 ov), 2-6 (Kemar Roach, 3.1 ov), 3-45 (Kraigg Brathwaite, 13.3 ov), 4-71 (Shai Hope, 18.3 ov), 5-79 (Shamarh Brooks, 20.6 ov), 6-87 (Roston Chase, 26.2 ov), 7-99 (Jason Holder, 28.6 ov), 8-117 (Shane Dowrich, 34.1 ov), 9-119 (Rahkeem Cornwall, 34.5 ov), 10-129 (Jermaine Blackwood, 37.1 ov) BOWLING JM Anderson SCJ Broad CR Woakes JC Archer

O M 8 4 8.1 1 11 0 10 1

R W 18 0 36 4 50 5 24 0

5 South Africans to miss CPL after failing to confirm travel arrangements

N

o South African player apart from Imran Tahir will take part in this year's Caribbean Premier League (CPL), which is due to start on August 18.

Rassie van der Dussen, Tabraiz Shamsi, Anrich Nortje, Rilee Rossouw and Colin Ingram were unable to confirm travel arrangements in time to be in Trinidad by August 1, when CPL organisers wanted all participating players to arrive in order to fulfil a 14-day quarantine period before the tournament begins.

While the CPL had organised a charter flight from London to Trinidad, the South African players were unable to get to the United Kingdom in time bearing in mind flight scarcity, visa requirements and the obligation to receive Government permission. Tahir has not been in South Africa through the lockdown but in

Colin Ingram

Tabraiz Shamsi

Anrich Nortje

Rilee Rossouw

Rassie van der Dussen

Pakistan, where he was playing in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), and has been able to travel to the West Indies from there.

South Africa remains in lockdown with all provincial and international borders closed and is expected to only begin easing travel restrictions after the coronavirus pandemic peak passes at the end of September.

That means the participation of South African players in

the Indian Premier League (IPL) is also awaiting logistical checks, chiefly Government permission. Similar permission is being sought for the national women's team, who are due to play a series in England in September.

While Cricket South Africa will issue its players with noobjection certificates, and does not intend to organise any bilateral cricket during the IPL window, players will need to

obtain permits to travel and will need to consider quarantine regulations. The tournament is expected to take place from September 19 to November 8, which could mean that South African players will be required to be away from home from early September until early November, given pre-tournament training and quarantines.

There is also the possibility that they will need to isolate

for a further 14 days on their return home. As David Warner said, with families unlikely to be able to accompany players and tours made longer by quarantine periods, several players may need to consider their personal circumstances before committing to travel.

South Africa has 10 players contracted with IPL teams, and two of them – AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis – have babies on the way. Earlier,

three players missed the 3TC exhibition match. Chris Morris was unavailable for personal reasons, Kagiso Rabada missed the fixture following the death of a family member, and Quinton de Kock pulled out because a close family member tested positive for COVID-19.

The men's team has not had any official training camps since the lockdown began in March, but continue to train individually, or at their franchise grounds.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2020

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Stuart Broad takes 10 to mark 500th wicket with series victory

See story on page 23

Broad acknowledges his 500th wicket

Dwain Dick hopes for the best in table tennis going forward

Pg 23

...expects more of the NSC

Pg 22

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