Guyana Times - Saturday, August 22, 2020

Businessman Toolsie Persaud P dies 18

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

Issue No. 4385

THE BEACON OF TRUTH SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020

Continued implosion of APNU: another “cardboard partner” out Page 14

...WPA claims non-consultation by PNC

Audit report Police probe

Former Sports Director on bail over alleged theft of state assets …as questions raised over how Jones qualified for $4.9M SLED grant

PRICE

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Lincoln Lewis charged for P18 assault

Contractors P16 warned about Govt’s intolerance over delayed projects

See story on page 15

Killing of 3 children

Clothes vendor claims life imprisonment P8 sentence “excessive” …moves to Appeal Court

Attempt to rig elections

Police to probe criminal conduct

by Mingo, Lowenfield Page 3

300 COVID-19 tests per day targeted by next week – Health Minister …35 new cases, 1 death recorded

See stories on pages 9, 10 &14

…condemns false reports about contaminated test kits

EPA’s capabilities must be enhanced – Jagdeo Page 7

Police unearth ganja on seawall, tombs in Berbice P15

Lima Sands' main access road finally P16 upgraded

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, August 22 – 05:30h – 07:00h. and Sunday, August 23 – 08:00h – 09:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, August 22 – 06:20h – 07:50h and Sunday, August 23 – 07:05h – 08:35h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Sunny intervals and a gentle breeze.

Temperatures should range between 24 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: South-Westerly to South SouthWesterly to South-Easterly to Easterly to East North-Easterly between 1.34 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 06:48h and 19:09h reaching maximum heights of 2.82 metres and 2.76 metres.

Low Tide: 12:20h reaching a minimum height of 0.40 metre.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2020

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DAILY MILLIONS

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COMMODITIES Indicators

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Change %

Crude Oil

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Rough Rice

$219.51 /ton

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Attempt to rig elections

Police to probe criminal conduct by Mingo, Lowenfield

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he Guyana Police Force will be launching an investigation into the role played by Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield and embattled Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo in the blatant attempts to rig the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Police said that “formal reports” were received that day, alleging “criminal conduct” by Lowenfield and Mingo, as well as others in relation to the elections and the events that followed thereafter.

“As a result, legal advice was obtained from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), and the Guyana Police Force was advised to launch a comprehensive investigation into these allegations” in accordance with its mandate.

The missive went on to say that the DPP, Shalimar AliHack, has further indicated that in the exercise of powers vested in her under Article 187 of the Constitution, she would take over the private criminal charges currently pending against Lowenfield in the Magistrate's Court.

Article 187 (1) (b) states: “The Director of Public Prosecutions shall have power in any case in which he [or she] considers it desirable… to take over and continue any such criminal proceedings that may have been instituted by any other person or authority…”

The Chief Elections Officer has been slapped with private criminal charges for fraud, misconduct in office, and breach of public trust, which were filed by private citizens Josh Kanhai and Desmond Morian. He is currently on $450,000 bail.

Meanwhile, Charles Ramson Jr had filed private criminal charges against RO Mingo and Chairperson of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Volda Lawrence back in March, contending that they attempted to forge a Form 24 document which had shown a win for the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) Coalition with the intention to defraud the public.

Those figures were widely rejected by the other political parties that contested the elections, as well as by observers, both local and international.

That matter was called up in the court only last week, and is set for hearing again on Monday.

Lowenfield’s matter was also rescheduled for Monday, after his lawyers wrote the DPP asking for the charges against him to be discontinued.

The presiding magistrate had adjourned the matter to await a decision from the DPP.

Files submitted

Attorney Glen Hanoman, who is representing both Kanhai and Morian, told Guyana Times on Friday that now that the DPP has taken over the charges and the Police are also probing the matter, he is not sure what would be the way forward.

However, he did note that he had submitted four files to

the Chambers of the DPP earlier in the day, and they contain all the evidence that had been gathered regarding the misconduct of both Lowenfield and Mingo.

“So I can tell you that I delivered a lot of evidence to the DPP Office, and because of that, we have every expectation that the matter would be continued by the DPP,” the attorney posited.

He explained that the evidence submitted was requested by the DPP in her deliberations over the request made by the defence counsel to discontinue the matter.

Hanoman said the request was premature, since the defence counsel provided no valid ground to have the matters discontinued, and he expects that the DPP would continue to pursue the charges already filed.

The protracted electoral process since the March 2 polls has been marred by a series of litigation, and a National Recount had to be conducted to ascertain the valid votes cast.

The results from the 33-day exercise showed the PPP/C with a victory, having obtained 233,336 votes while its main political rival, the APNU/AFC obtained 217,920 votes – a difference of 15,416 votes.

During that exercise, it was found that RO Mingo had heavily inflated the votes from Guyana’s largest voting district in favour of the Coalition, the event that initiated the recount in the first place.

The recount was certified by a special team of scrutineers from the Caribbean Community (Caricom) which said in its report to the Guyana Elections Commission that, “… nothing that we witnessed warrants a challenge to the inescapable conclusion that the recount results are acceptable and should constitute the basis of the declaration of the results of the March 2, 2020 elections.”

Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield

Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo

But despite former President and Leader of the APNU/AFC, David Granger, having deemed the Caricom team the “most legitimate interlocutor” at the time, his party refused to accept the recount results and filed two sets of legal proceedings.

These proceedings passed through the High and Appeal Courts here in Guyana, as well as the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) – the country’s apex court – before the path was finally paved for GECOM to declare the elections results using the recount figures. The declaration was made on August 2 and the new President was immediately sworn in – exactly five months after the Guyanese people had gone to the polls.

haviour which had transpired over the past five months when the country was embroiled in a political and electoral impasse.

“All of us are painfully aware of the trauma and anguish that our people endured over the past five months, as vigorous attempts were made to destroy our democratic credentials and deny the will of the electorate… Therefore, a review of events related to the electoral process over the last five months will begin shortly, in order to determine forensically exactly what transpired, and to hold accountable any persons who sought to pervert and corrupt the system,” the Head of State had declared.

Attorney General Anil Nandlall had subsequently explained that there are several options available to pursue the forensic review: a Commission of Inquiry (CoI), a forensic and/ or a “deep probing police” investigation.

This move by the newly elected Government to probe the post-election events comes on the heels of the United States already issuing visa sanctions against officials here who were found to be responsible for undermining Guyana’s democracy. The United Kingdom had subsequently announced that it has also started to put systems in place for “consequences” against such individuals.

Forensic review

Meanwhile, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government recently announced that it will be launching a “forensic review” into the events that unfolded after the March elections, and hold persons accountable for attempting to subvert democracy in Guyana over the past five months.

During his Inauguration Address, President Dr Irfaan Ali said that Government has an obligation to the nation and to itself to ensure that no other generation of Guyanese is subjected to such unlawful be-

(G8)

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guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 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

Educating public on agencies operation

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few years ago, a former Commissioner of Police told the nation at his swearing-in ceremony that they must hold him accountable. That was in the context of him being held responsible, as the Top Cop, presumably for the actions of the Force and crime fighting under his tenure.

Some years after, the former President said he wanted an “unbribable” Top Cop. After that, the then officer who was appointed Top Cop threatened to charge members of the public who offer bribes to the Police, while at the same time urging ranks to desist from accepting same.

There is a tremendous sense of moral value in the statements made by the three individuals; statements that are well-intended and good for public confidence. However, people want to see a sustainable manifestation into reality.

This is not suggesting any impropriety on the part of the individuals to which the various statements can be attributed, but the reality on the ground is starkly different.

The threat to charge people for offering bribes, ironically, may have stemmed from numerous complaints emanating from the public. While the former Commissioner is spot on that bribery is a two-way street, and arguments can probably be made that some members of the public may engage for ease of convenience, there are many instances of members of the public being forced to offer a bribe.

The term “royal run-around” is commonly used to sum up the sentiments of customers who believe they are deliberately being frustrated when seeking a particular service and/or the time-consuming, voluminous, paper-work bureaucratic process to close a transaction. Many can relate these experiences when accessing some public services, as some minibus operators who allege harassment by the Police and claim that relief is only through bribes.

While it is legally not right, these situations create the environment for bribery, since tremendous value is attached to time and the easing of the pains of frustration. This, of course, is not confined to Guyana, but is common in many, if not all, societies, with varying degrees of prevalence.

The argument has always been for the systems to be fixed to maximise efficiency and confidence through the removal of “red tape”, unnecessarily long wait, and favouritism. If that were to be done, and officers who are found circumventing the process for personal gains are disciplined, the possibility of removing/reducing bribery may be realised.

There is the strong belief that situations are deliberately exploited by some public officers to force the offering of a bribe. While there is national concern over the dangers and flagrant breaking of traffic laws by some road users, there are complaints by some minibus operators who claim to be compliant but are made to face trumped-up charges so that a bribe can be paid.

With an average traffic ticket costing in the vicinity of seven thousand dollars, and with lengthy delays when stopped, including being asked to visit the Police station, the imposed understanding is for the “offering” of half that amount in order to proceed and to avoid frustration.

Over the years, terms like “a towel” or a “granger” are used to indicate the amounts in question. This has become fodder for satire, with other terms like “write” or “left” made popular.

The former suggests a seeming bluff to issue a ticket, while the latter suggests “leave something” as the alternative.

For sure, those guilty of breaking traffic laws should be made to face the relevant penalty. This, however, has to be professionally enforced to build public confidence. What would also be useful is to have sustained education on procedures of stop-and-search, traffic operations, issuing of traffic tickets, and other areas considered to be of contention to the general public. Likewise, the same for public agencies that provide vital services. The few that have taken some steps towards that must be commended.

While education in the context alluded is not a panacea, it helps to reduce ambiguities and lead to better understanding of processes. However, even with such good intentions, the current reality would cause optimism for holistic success to be low. This is premised on the seemingly engrained proclivity of some public officers for the status quo to remain, so that benefits continue to flow. That underscores the need for sustained action, as against words.

CIOG President’s Reflections Islamic New Year I n the name of Allah (swt), The Most Merciful, The Most Compassionate Respected Brothers and Sisters, Elders and my Non-Muslim friends As SalamualaikumwaRahmatullahiWaBaraktuh, All praises are for Allah (swt), peace and choicest blessings on Rasoolullah (saws).

As we welcome another Islamic New Year, we are reminded of the Hijrah made by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Makkah to Al Madinah Al Munnawarah (the illuminated city).

This Hijrah or migration represents one of the most significant events in Islam and it is upon this that the Islamic calendar is predicated.

After more than a decade of persecution by the Quraysh the migration of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to Madinah became imminent.

When Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) immigrated from Makkah to Madinah he did not just transfer his residence or sought refuge in a new city, but as soon as he arrived in Madinah he began the transformation of that city in every aspect. He worked and carry the stones himself to establish a Mosque, established brotherly relations between those who migrated and the residents of Madinah; relations based on faith not on tribe or ethnicity. He fostered intercommunity and interfaith relations. A water system in the City was commissioned and over 50 wells were dug to ensure clean water for everyone. Agriculture and gardening were encouraged and anyone doing so will own that land; soon there were an abundance of food for everyone.

Poverty was eradicated and there were

enough for everyone and gifts were given to visiting delegations. Madinah became the safest city in the world. This migration was aimed at extending a bridge for an eternal civilization that is based on love, peace, and, ultimately, touching the hearts of all humanity.

The hijrah marks a transition line between two major eras; the Makkah and Madinah periods. A period of adversity and persecution to a time of prosperity and progress. The migration of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us many lessons. In Makkah, everyone expected Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to be dead by day break but he placed his trust only in Allah (swt). Rest assured that God is not in need of us but we are in need of Allah (swt) as indicated by the attribute As-Samad– the One who is free from need but everyone depends on Him. Trust Allah (swt) in difficult times and know that once you are on the path of Allah (swt), Allah (swt) will be there for you. Stay the course; obey Allah (swt) despite what trials and tribulation may come your way; never lose hope. Remember that the promise of Allah (swt) stands true, with difficulty comes ease. After over a decade of tribulations and torture the Prophet was going to be a Head of State, the King of Madinah. The promise of Allah (swt) stands true; after every difficulty comes ease.

In this regard, we should begin this New Year reflecting on our personal growth with Allah (swt). Have we made a transition from disobedience to adherence, from selfishness to selflessness, from thinking about my tribe to thinking about the nation? Let us to-

gether with renewed commitment turn to our Lord, the Most Merciful and follow the teachings outlined in the Holy Quran and as exemplified in the Prophetic example (Sunnah). Let us work together to transition to as better state by doing extra acts of devotion and much remembrance of Allah (swt).

It is only through following the way of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) which is the way of all the Prophets from Adam to Jesus (peace be upon them all) that we will achieve felicity and become illuminated.

We therefore remind ourselves and all Muslims in Guyana and by extension all Guyanese that it is our duty to learn and embody the Prophetic ways in all aspects of our lives.

We pray to Allah (swt) that in this new lunar year Heswt forgives us our faults from the previous years, rectify our hearts and actions, and make us among those who are firm and well established in faith and be ready to selflessly serve all of humanity.

AllahummaSalli Ala MuhammadinKullamaDhakaraHuzhdhakiroonwaKullamaGhafala An dhikrihilGhafiloon.

“O Allah! Shower blessings on Muhammad whenever he is remembered by those who remember him, and shower blessings on Muhammad whenever he is not remembered by the negligent, and grant him peace constantly in abundance” And success comes only through Allah (swt).

Shahabudeen Ahmad President Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG)

Michelle Obama’s speech: an aftermath that is contextual in Guyana’s tragedy

Dear Editor, At the opening of the Democratic Convention, former First Lady Michelle Obama said, “Donald Trump is the wrong president for our country. He has had more than enough time to prove that he can do the job, but he is clearly in over his head. He cannot meet this moment.

He simply cannot be who we need him to be for us. It is what it is.”

While looking directly into the camera and meant for the eyes of the viewers, she set a tone that will amplify the strength of a purpose, one that will reverberate the determination that will overflow in the 2020 election campaign. Guyana’s election may be over, but the repercussions are certainly not over, and there will be overspilling consequences.

Her words perhaps resonate an aftermath speech that is contextual in Guyana’s tragedy, and certainly reflect the stigma that Guyanese have had to endure, not only for the past five months, but for the past five years. The life span of Mr. Granger in office has proven that he was not the right person to lead this nation; and indeed, he was allotted more time than necessary to prove his worth, but he was certainly grappling with more than what was delivered on his plate. The fast pace and high volume that is currently demanded from a quick track, progressive and astute manager, he certainly was found wanting in all the deportments and departments.

Unfortunately, his calibre does not justify the desires of this generation’s needs, and as such, both quality and quantity are certainly lacking and limited. Also, all the shortcomings, deficiencies, defaults, flaws and imperfection

from his party members did not help him either, and contributed to his demise and helped to expose his weaknesses and inadequacies.

All the speculations: whether he is the master or the puppet, whether he exercises any control or is being controlled, whether he is a robot or rubber stamp, and whether he is just a figure head or the architect; perhaps all of these assumptions are meaningless until the dust is settled from the internal wrangling of the party and we are presented with the final outcome. A number of members will not take the matter lying down quietly, as already witnessed by the numerous angry outbursts and expressions of dissatisfaction. Let us wait and see whose steel is really sharp, and when all is said and done, many will remain vexed, dissatisfied, remorseless, and there may be a temptation to entertain retaliation.

Indeed, there was a lack of empathy by the caretaker administration, and apart from ignoring the popular will of the people, Guyanese interests were castigated and shunned, regardless of which side of the divide anyone belonged to. The welfare of the people was certainly overlooked, and no priority was given. But the select few were allowed to live the good life, and their selfish needs were satisfied due to their greed for only retaining power and taking care of their well-being and securing their future. All this occurred at the expense of the poor and deprived tax payers, who continued to sink deeper into poverty and starvation.

When the PPP/C Party took office, only then all the atrocious activities began to unfold and reveal exactly who were really benefiting and why the state

of the economy is so bankrupt. Will the Guyanese people demand a thorough and rigid investigation, or will the supporters of the APNU/AFC Party remain still in a muffled voice and accept what the cabals did without any objection? How can the conscience of any rightminded person purporting honesty and integrity not want the truth to be established and understand why they were being fooled and taken for a ride?

Michelle Obama had further pinpointed what is so relevant and appealing to each Guyanese when she expounded, “I know that regardless of our race, age, religion, or politics, when we close out the noise and the fear and truly open our hearts, we know that what’s going on in this country is just not right. This is not who we want to be.” Her message was twofold. Perhaps her intention was aimed to connect with the American people, while at the said time her heart was with the Guyanese people, expressing her relief from a tormented past and a hope for future optimism.

Indeed, Guyanese do need to wake up, smell the freshness of the coffee that can revive the urge for survivability in a unified atmosphere that is conducive to peace, progress and prosperity. The sense of fairness and justice must once again activate the minds of all, and no discriminative feeling must be allowed to penetrate the heart of any loving Guyanese.

This is the only way forward, and Guyanese will not rest until justice is served and the renewed goals are realised.

Respectfully, Jai Lall

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020

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

PPP once again given Reckless behaviour towards COVID-19 the unenviable task Dear Editor, This is not the first time that the Peoples National Congress (PNC) has bankrupted this country through a proliferation of incompetence, failed social and economic policies, forthright corruption, and barefaced theft.

Once again, it is the PPP/C which is given the unenviable Herculean task to bring forth this nation from the social morass and economic decay which has progressed rapidly since the PNC took office in May 2015.

Sadly, this is not the first time that the PNC has attempted to sell off GUYSUCO in its bid to squander state assets as a last resort, when it has clinically bankrupted the economy and emptied the Treasury.

We saw that, between 1989 and 1992, the PNC went berserk to sell off state assets to friends and cronies at obscenely low prices under the guise of the Economic Recovery Program to privatise the ‘socialist economy’.

Massive ‘kick backs’ was the order of the day.

For instance, the Guyana Telecommunications Corporation, a profit-making entity, was sold for a meagre US$16.5 million when it was earning a profit of US$2-4 million annually. This happened in 1991. Another profitable company, the National Paint Company Limited, was sold for US$1.15 million despite the workers wanting to buy it for US$1.2 million. Also, the Guyana Timbers Limited was sold for US$23.2 million, but was valued at US$130 million.

Another highly corrupt deal was the sale of Demerara Woods Limited, which was sold in 1991 for 9.7 million pounds, and was resold 2 months later for 61 million pounds.

But what is more alarming is the fact that, in 1992, the Demerara Woods Limited was valued at 74 million pounds, and the rainforest concession was valued at US$206 million.

These were just a few rainforest concessions that were given away like ‘cheap hot cakes’ by the PNC. Fortunately, the PNC’s attempt in 1991 to sell off GUYSUCO was met with

strong resistance from the PPP, led by former President Dr Cheddi Jagan, GAWU, and the sugar workers. The PNC always try to sell off before an election.

An important point which must be noted is the fact that all these pre-1992 state entities were engulfed by massive corruption, squandermania, political interference, and employment of political appointees in strategic positions, siphoning off profits to other Government agencies, where the profits are either stolen or squandered. This is not unlike what transpired from 2015, when the PNC-dominated coalition Government assumed office.

In 1992, when the PPP/C took office, the fortunes of the remaining state entities began to progress, and despite challenges faced by GUYSUCO due to the EU price cut, sugar was still making a significant contribution to the economy.

The PPP/C Government had embarked on a capitalisation programme that saw marked improvements in the field and factory operations. If these programmes were allowed to continue from 2015 until now, GUYSUCO would have already been on the road to recovery. In the PPP/C 2015 Manifesto, $20 billion was pledged to continue to upgrade the industry.

Unfortunately, despite empty rhetoric by Granger and his Government, the Granger ‘sugar bowl’ came under the PNC collateral damage programme and the workers became expendables.

GUYSUCO was strangled and left to die.

The PNC’s drama to give subsidy will not fool anyone, since the political hacks who oversaw the spending guaranteed that the capitalisation programme was starved of much-needed resources while they became ‘fatter cats’. The PNC also used GUYSUCO as its personal ‘dharm shala’ to provide a living for its many incompetent and senile geriatrics, who placed further burden on the operational estates.

In fact, as it is now seen, the entire Government became a ‘vacation destination’ and old folks’ home for the PNC’s les incompetents.

Then, in 2016, the PNC made a second attempt to sell off 4 estates by first closing them and dismissing more than 7,000 employees. It is basic business sense that if you want to sell a business, you do not first close it and then sell it. Any prudent businessman would try to improve it and sell it as a going concern. But, in this case, it was first to exact revenge on the sugar workers, who are seen as PPP/C supporters; destroy their livelihoods and the industry, and then use the industry as their personal ‘milking cows’ to fill their pockets, to sell off lands, machinery and equipment to cronies at rock bottom prices in order to collect massive kickbacks.

The PNC squandered millions to ‘sell’, but that was never the intent. Moreover, the Coalition procured a $30 billion bond which, in addition to being squandered, became a millstone around an already drowning entity due to the service costs. The SPU was created to ensure that the resources never reached GUYSUCO, and the bond was never used as it was intended: to upgrade the operational estates, both field and factory; to establish co-generation plants; and to produce ethanol commercially. The SPU was the corruption filter.

Today, the PPP/C Government’s task would have been so simple if the 4 estates were not closed but had remained operational. What the Coalition did to the sugar industry is utterly reprehensible and downright criminal; and, once again, I am calling for a Commission of Inquiry to investigate this criminal act.

Fortunately, the PPP/C Government has appointed an Agriculture Minister whose competence will once again bring back GUYSUCO to its former glory. It is not a ‘mission impossible’, the PPP/C has a track record of bringing back progress and prosperity to this country, and President Ali, Vice-President Jagdeo and their team would achieve this again. Let us not forget that Dr Jagan and Dr Jagdeo did the impossible before!

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

Looking beyond Georgetown

Dear Editor, The focus of the current administration, to utilise the profits from the oil sector to strengthen other productive sectors, is a very good idea that will increase employment and add new, profitable businesses to the economy.

It must also be noted that the recent flooding that has occurred due to the lack of well prioritised infrastructural investment is a great wakeup call to the Government: to ensure investments in the future are deliberate and have long-term benefits that are sustainable.

The current climate change dynamics continue to give us reasons to look beyond Georgetown. A clear strategy to invest in a new capital city must not be neglected or overlooked. Maintenance of Georgetown will pull significantly on available resources, and there will be a limit to the funds available for expansion projects. Therefore, it is essential that a clear plan is in place to utilise the remaining forecasted resources to establish a capital city in a location that allows for more environmental security and the development of a city

of the future. This should encompass a sustainable energy grid and infrastructure that takes us into the century at a level comparable to the most efficient and beautiful cities of the world.

The economic boost from such a strategy would be significant, and would provide a level of employment that may require additional human resources beyond what is available locally. The economic multiplier is also very favourable.

Best regards, Jamil Changlee

Dear Editor, After seeing Commander Errol Watts entering Mary’s Bar and informing those present that they will be charged, I must say I am quite pleased, after complaining of bars opening at night, even though the raid was conducted during the day.

I am, however, hopeful that the raids continue, and others that open at night be subjected to the same treatment; and no favoritism. It’s alarming to know that the rate is climbing drastically and people have no regard for this lurking danger.

I’ve made mention previously of the attitudes of some conducting test. More than once, in traversing various places, and at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling, almost every time I

am boarding the speed boats, passengers are being ordered to wear their masks or be prevented from boarding.

What is ironic is that the boat captain and bowman either don’t have on a mask, or those are hanging around their necks; and interestingly, the health care workers conducting tests display similar behaviour.

Editor, I must admit that since this COVID-19 started spreading in Guyana, I’ve been doing quite a lot of travelling to lots of distant places, and I’ve penned my observations. While there’s the talk of this deadly disease, many do not seem to be taking it seriously. The minibuses are continually overloaded or have their full number of passen-

gers. If anyone objects, their excuse is, ‘Someone coming off just now’, but throughout the whole trip, it’s the same nonsense happening.

The Police would stop some, but there are many regulars whom the Police would conveniently turn away. My presumption is that they are either friends or family, thus the lawlessness continues whilst people’s lives are being put in danger.

Presently, not many are quite aware exactly how the disease is spreading, or how to avoid it. We have had too many deaths as a result of this disease, and we all should be a little more cautious.

Sincerely, Sahadeo Bates

Regulators of financial sector have failed Guyanese

Dear Editor, According to the World Bank, COVID-19 has resulted in the “deepest global recession in decades”, which resulted in the recession of developing countries, loss of labour efficiency, and a general reduction of economic development.

The effect of tightening the noose of COVID-19 is not strange to Guyana, as many businesses were forced to lay off staff and even slash remuneration for entry-level employees. The above is ignoring any effect that the five-month election declaration had on the country’s reaction to the virus, and the ability to rebound even remotely.

Lo and behold, erupted the widely successful investment firm named Accelerated Capital Firm Inc (ACFI).

The firm is incorporated as a company in Guyana, and asserts to be regulated by the International Financial Market Relations Regulation Center (IFMRRC). The objective of the firm is, “To ensure that 100% of our members are in a significantly better financial position than they were when we first met. Seeing our members being educated, enriched and empowered in the financial markets is our passion, and the reason why we continue to strive for their satisfaction.”

And they have been doing exactly that! At least 30 persons have highlighted to me the ACFI is the best decision they have made in the longest time. The business, according to my understanding, has two criteria, one involves the investment of a sum of at least G$100,000, which guarantees a return of 40%; and two: a further return if the investor recruits at least 3 persons to invest as well.

Absolutely nothing sounds wrong with that. On the face of things, investing in this sounds foolproof; the more persons you encourage to join, the more returns for you; and the more persons they encourage to join, the better for those persons.

Assuming 3 persons invest in the scheme and encourage 3 persons to invest, who then encourage 3 persons to invest.

Just imagine how strong and how much returns would have been created.

Well, there is no need to imagine, as approximately 17,000 Guyanese have invested, and stand to lose because of the promises made by ACFI. Putting that in terms of dollars, assuming half of the 17,000 invested the minimum requirement of G$100,000 monthly, this represents monthly cash of G$850M (circa USD4.1M).

Hundreds of those 17,000 have seen returns on investment that they would have never seen possible from working a normal 9-5, or even starting their business, but the vast majority of those 17,000 persons stand to lose their hard-earned money. ACFI is no more than a fraud that has been allowed to prey on the hard-working Guyanese.

But may I ask what was done by the regulators? AFCI has been registered in Guyana since late last year, and has been soliciting persons to invest since the beginning of the year. I remember that on the genesis of the AFCI’s stardom, I was asked by my employer to contact the Bank of Guyana and Securities Council on this issue, and they had absolutely no clue about who regulated the firm and whom I should contact for more information.

ACFI has been allowed to collect funds on the pretence of investing these funds, and have not, until recently, been the subject of any investigation by the Bank of Guyana, Securities Council, Guyana Revenue Authority, or any other regulator in Guyana.

The fact that they have been allowed to become this large and this strong reflects nonchalant regulatory financial environment in Guyana. This needs to stop.

For a firm/individual to be able to invest on behalf of persons in Guyana, adequate licences are required. These are issued by the Bank of Guyana;

SEE ADDITIONAL LETTERS ON PAGE 17

and currently, there are just about five places that are licensed to carry on this type of business.

Correcting the wrong

I humbly submit that all is not lost, and mistakes happen.

However, this must not be allowed to continue. The regulators have an ability to right this wrong. This exists in the purported traders of foreign exchange and educators of the subject.

According to Bloomberg, the foreign exchange market approximated a US$6.6 trillion a day industry at the end of 2019. Traders of foreign exchange stand to benefit if they make the right decisions. In Guyana, there is an expanding number of “traders” of foreign exchange and “educators” of potential traders.

Persons in a similar fashion to ACFI invest an amount of money, and are provided returns as well as a top-up whenever they bring in more persons into the loop of investors. Some schemes represent themselves as educating persons on the path to financial freedom, and have again been doing exactly that.

I am not asserting that all forex trading is wrong and all persons who are involved in forex trading are being dishonest, but the fact of the matter is that there is no active regulation of the individuals, and all persons involved stand to lose in the same way that persons stand to lose with ACFI. The relevant regulators should review the persons who carry out these types of businesses, to ensure that they are licensed, qualified, and compliant with all relevant regulations related to operating in Guyana.

Please act now before it becomes too late.

The views and opinions expressed in this letter are solely that of the author, and are not an indictment on the hardworking people of Guyana Yours faithfully, Raan Motilall

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020

Page

Foundation

SUMMER OF LEARNING

Æsop’s Fables

FOR CHILDREN

- A bottle with a narrow neck - Vinegar - Baking soda - Funnel or straw - Water - Balloon

3. Stretch the open end of the balloon over the neck of the bottle. Make sure it’s on tight! Let the heavy end of the balloon dangle, so no baking soda goes in the bottle.

1. Pour about an inch of liquid--half vinegar, half water--into the bottle.

4. Hold onto the ballon at the bottle neck, and pick up the heavy part of the balloon so that all the baking soda falls into the vinegar at the bottom of the bottle.

2. Use the funnel to fill the ballon half full of baking soda.

(If you don’t have a funnel, you can use a straw to load the balloon. Stick the straw into the baking soda, and put your finger over the top of the straw. Lift the straw out, put it into the balloon, and blow or tap gently.)

5. Wow! Hear the fizz? There are thousands of bubbles!

And look at what’s happening to the ballon... (https://www.exploratorium.edu/science_explorer/balloon_blowup.html)

A

young mouse in search of adventure was running along the bank of a pond where lived a frog. When the frog saw the mouse, he swam to the bank and croaked: “Won’t you pay me a visit? I can promise you a good time if you do.”

The mouse did not need much coaxing, for he was very anxious to see the world and everything in it. But though he could swim a little, he did not dare risk going into the pond without some help.

The frog had a plan. He tied the mouse’s leg to his own with a tough reed. Then into the pond he jumped, dragging his foolish companion with him. The mouse soon had enough of it and wanted to return to shore; but the treacherous frog had other plans. He pulled the mouse down under the water and drowned him. But before he could untie the reed that bound him to the dead mouse, a hawk came sailing over the pond. Seeing the body of the mouse floating on the water, the hawk swooped down, seized the mouse and carried it off, with the frog dangling from its leg. Thus at one swoop he had caught both meat and fish for his dinner.

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

EPA’s capability must be enhanced – Jagdeo V

ice President Bharrat Jagdeo says that the capability of the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) needs to be enhance in order to handle the issues emanating from the oil and gas sector, as well as other industries in Guyana.

Currently, the EPA is grappling with having US oil giant, ExxonMobil, to contain the flaring of gas from its oil operations in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana.

The company has been experiencing issues with the compressor, which has failed while they were commissioning the compressor to inject the gas. When oil is being extracted, other substances including water also comes up from the ocean floor.

International best practice is that the oil is separated and the “waste” is disposed of by being re-injected into the earth’s surface.

However, with Exxon having to send the equipment to Germany to get fixed, the company has flared over 10 billion cubic feet from its operations offshore.

During a recent interview on Kaieteur Radio, Jagdeo pointed out that that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

has already taken a position on this matter, that is, they want to adopt industry best practices regarding flaring.

He noted that they have even indicated this to Exxon as they currently negotiate the Payara Development Plan – the oil company’s third development project in the Stabroek Block.

The Vice President recognizes that the environmental provisions governing the relationship between the Guyana and the companies must be properly enshrined in the contracts – in the core contract or in the development plans.

But he noted that once those provisions are there, they have to be enforced which would require devel-

oping the capability to do so.

“So, a number of things will have to be put in place…

But EPA’s capability to manage this must be enhanced,” he asserted.

Jagdeo was quick to point out, however, that in doing so that the Agency cannot become a humbug to investment in not just the oil and gas sector.

“We want to strike that balance… because a lot of people have projects now and we get an enourmous amount of complaints about small projects with very little impact on the environment outside the oil and gas that they have to wait forever to get an EPA permit often… So we want the agency to safeguard the country –

our people’s welfare and the environment but at the same time we want to be open to economic develop,” he posited.

The Vice President went onto to note that the government wants to have this advanced capability in not just the EPA but across the various entities that will be handling the petroleum sector.

In fact, he noted that they are hoping to build a “core team” of Guyanese expertise to manage the sector in the future.

Exxon, which along with its partners are operating the Stabroek Block which contains an estimated eight billion barrels of oil, has been flagged for at least six flaring incidents in the past 12 months and has been fined by the EPA. Back in June, the company had scaled back its production of oil offshore Guyana in a bid to cut down on flaring.

EPA Director Dr Vincent Adams had revealed at the time that after discussions, the company had all agreed

to cut back oil production from 80 million barrels per day to 25 to 30 million barrels per day so as to not exceed flaring 15 million cubic feet per day.

Currently, the company is flaring between 12 to 15 million cubic feet per day In the midst of criticism regarding its volume of flaring, Exxon’s Public Affairs Advisor, Janelle Persaud, had told the Guyana Times in June that Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) – Exxon’s subsidiary – has made some headway in fixing and fully commissioning its gas handling system in order to cut down on the harmful flaring.

She had explained that they are currently injecting and utilising 85 per cent of the gas produced in the Stabroek Block while they finalise the commissioning of the gas handling system.

“We have two of the three gas handling systems online and are currently injecting or using 85 per cent of the produced gas from the reser-

voir. With gas reinjection online, we are able to ramp up production and reduce flaring,” Persaud had stated.

She further explained that when the system is fully commissioned, Exxon will be able to produce at full capacity. Moreover, she stressed that minimising flaring is actually one of ExxonMobil’s priorities.

“Once the system is fully commissioned, we will be able to produce at full capacity. Both the safety of the people working on the Liza Destiny and our efforts to minimise flaring are key priorities for ExxonMobil Guyana,” Persaud had noted.

The Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) had released a statement in which it had called on the company to stop flaring gas offshore Guyana. CIEL had claimed that the flaring exceeded the levels approved by the Government, putting Guyana among the top ten gas flaring countries in the world at the time.

8 NEWS

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Killing of 3 children

Clothes vendor claims life imprisonment sentence “excessive” …moves to Appeal Court

John Blanchard

A

40-year-old man who, in 2016, was sentenced to life imprisonment for hacking to death his three children as they lay asleep, has now moved to the Court of Appeal (COA) to challenge the sentence.

Initially, John Blanchard was indicted for murder by state prosecutors, but opted to plead guilty to the less-

er offence of manslaughter when he appeared in the High Court before Justice JoAnn Barlow.

He was handed a life sentence in relation to each of the killings, with the possibility of becoming eligible for parole after serving 30 years.

In his appeal, he is contending that the sentences are excessive and severe in all the circumstances of the case.

On October 11, 2011, Blanchard admitted that at Dr Charles Sand Road, Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara (EBD), he unlawfully chopped and stabbed his three young children: Joy (6), Belika (10), and Daniel (4). Belika and Daniel died almost instantly, while Joy succumbed a day later, after being on a life support machine at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC).

According to reports at the time of the incident, the children’s mother, Onica Blanchard, had left for the

John Blanchard, his reputed wife, and the three children that he killed

interior, and the chopping incident allegedly stemmed from a phone conversation

Blanchard had with her over difficulties in their relationship. (G1)

Sophia teen accused of theft beaten, burnt

A

teenager of South, Sophia Greater Georgetown is now nursing serious injuries and burns about the body, sustained after he was taken to a house by 15 men and doused with gasoline then set alight.

Eighteen-year-old Handel Payne, a construction worker of Lot 75 Block “E” Sophia, told Guyana Times that, about two weeks ago, he was at a friend’s home when the group of men arrived and accused him of being involved in a theft.

The teen said the men kept saying they had found in the house a pair of boots that were stolen, which belonged with him.

He explained that after a few minutes of trying to convince the men of his innocence, he was picked up by the 15 persons and taken to another location, “somewhere in South Ruimveldt”.

He explained that when he got to that location, the men dragged him out of the car and began beating him.

They Subsequently doused him with gasoline and set him alight.

“Them claiming that I do some break and enter, but me ain’t know about no break and enter. When I sit down with my friend, I see them coming, but me ain’t run or

Burnt: Handel Payne

nothing because I didn’t know it was me they was coming to.

They come up to me and say, ‘Is you I coming to!’,” he explained.

Payne says he has recognised two of the men who lit him afire. He narrated that after he was set alight, he fought to get his clothes off. However, after a while,

the men quenched the fire by throwing water on him. He claimed that his attackers then threw him into the car, and took him to the Police Station.

“Them carry me to Prashad Nagar Police Station… all I keep telling the Police that this is the same people who burn me up.”

While at the Police Station, Payne said, he was thrown in the back of a Police truck by some officers and the same persons who set him a blaze, and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

“When they finish doing all of this, they dropped me off at the hospital and never returned,” he related.

Payne sustained first and second degree burns to his neck, torso, arms, hands, and back. He said that since the incident occurred, he has been making several reports to the East La Penitence Police Station, but to no avail.

“When I went there, them tell me them aint get no vehicle… The Commander called today (Wednesday) and said if I see them must tell he. But they (the suspects) say if I say anything, they gone kill me”.

While the lad remains adamant that he did not commit any larceny, he admitted to being fearful for his life, since the men who had abducted him are still roaming the streets. Payne and his family members are calling on higher authorities to “do something about the situation”.

Contacted on Friday, A Division Commander Simon McBean told this publication that he was informed of the incident, and an investigation has been launched.

(LaWanda McAllister)

PNC barbershop…

A

…as boondoggle nother day, another PNC scandal…this time, concerning the “Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) Initiative” launched in 2015. Now, rather than put into their mouths and let them wash their mouths on your Eyewitness, let’s quote from SLED’s website as to what they claimed they were up to.

“Given the importance of micro, small and medium scale enterprises (MSMEs) and the advantages they offer to the local economies, Government has introduced the SLED programme.

“This is in line with Government’s policies to introduce job creation measures that include promoting MSMEs as well as providing opportunities for local entrepreneurs and investors and the huge diaspora to develop the abundant natural resources locally. The goal of SLED is to provide support for the expansion of the local economy in communities across Guyana, and assist MSMEs, both existing and new start-ups, to create jobs and promote local economic development.”

Got that?? They were to help depressed communities - of which they evidently identified 585 - to move up the economic ladder. Quite laudable, don’t you think??

For instance, in 2017, Amna Ally announced in Parliament, “Among projects executed by the groups include poultry, pig, and sheep rearing, garment construction centres, multipurpose complex, block making establishments, shade house cultivation, and baking and catering establishments.”

Now, the PNC Govt threw in some real money int these projects, starting with some $54 million in 2015, $40M in 2016, $100M in 2017, $150M in 2018, and a whopping $250M in 2019! That’s over half a billion bucks to catalyse local businesses.

Your Eyewitness says “thrown at” because, as their website informs us, “SLED works by distributing INTERESTFREE GRANTS to registered groups and associations, needing the economic boost to improve their economic enterprises.”

And this is where we come to the initiative of Christopher Jones to become the Guyana version of Ice Cube in the movie “Barbershop”. You know, that spot in the hood where everyone passes through eventually to plug into what’s really going down!

The man collected $4.9M out of the 2019 funds to supposedly launch his PERSONAL barbershop on an open lot with 18 chairs and be really “cool”, since he also purchased a humdinger of an air conditioner for $1.5M!! The question that immediately came to your Eyewitness’s mind was: “Did Jones have no confidence in his party to win the elections and was preparing for a life outside the national trough??”

When the Police went to seize the property - clearly obtained under false pretences, since Jones clearly doesn’t qualify to benefit from the programme - the man had the gall to claim he’d gotten a LOAN from SLED!!

SLED doesn’t give loans, just grants to the needy!! And not hustlers!! …and weaponising them Not unexpectedly, the PNC made a big hullabaloo against the PPP for the POLICE trying to recover the state’s property!! They clearly have repressed the incident in 2015 when SOCU seized those used computers from an Enmore NGO!! In this case, some of the Granger-rejected PNC MPhopefuls - Volda Lawrence, Aubrey Norton and James Bond seized the opportunity to get some limelight in the blackout!

They demanded the Police show them a warrant - when the fact of the matter is that in a simple larceny, which they concluded this was, once they have evidence, the Police don’t need a warrant to seize the goods!! And for the same reason, the stop-order by Justice Brassington Reynolds - of CoA fame - was of no effect, and was rightly ignored by the Police. Jones was charged, and Granger has finally joined Volda in crying, “PPP victimisation!!”

The incident will now be used by the PNC to prove who’s the leader who can be most strident!! …versus business icons Foundational lumber tycoon Toolsie Persaud passed away. He was one of the Guyanese pioneers to demonstrate what hard work and perseverance can do against insurmountable odds.

Burnt out at Wismar in 1964, he achieved even greater heights afterwards.

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

NEWS

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

35 new COVID-19 cases recorded as testing increases

…410 patients under “close monitoring” – CMO

A

s health institutions increase COVID-19 testing, another 35 new cases have been recorded.

The daily update on Friday was provided by Chief Medical Officer Dr Shamdeo Persaud. At present the deaths are 31. This now brings the total number of positive cases since March in Guyana to 881. However, 433 recoveries were reported. There are 410 persons under close monitoring – which breaks down to 77 in institutional isolation and 333 in approved home isolation. Eight persons are still in the designated Intensive Care Unit (ICU) while recovered patients have been placed under strict measures to prevent any reinfections, Dr Persaud said.

From August 15 to 20, 218 new cases were reported, coming mainly from Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

The first case in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) was reported last week while there have been sporadic cas-

es in Regions One (BarimaWaini) and Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

“As you can see from the data over the last week, COVID-19 remains a threat to everyone in all areas of Guyana. Within the last few days, we have a noted a lot of concerns about the testing and laboratory confirmation of COVID-19. I would like to assure members of the public that the tests conducted by the National Public Health Reference Laboratory is the

WHO-recommended molecular PCR test for the coronavirus,” the CMO stated.

Dr Shamdeo said that anti-body rapid tests are available, which may indicate that someone was exposed to the virus but is not recommended to diagnose the infection. However, he set the record straight that these procedures should not be compared, since only the PCR is used to detect positive cases.

TURN TO PAGE 10

10 NEWS

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

300 COVID-19 tests per day targeted by next week – Health Minister …condemns false reports about contaminated test kits

H

ealth Minister Dr Frank Anthony has announced that, by next week, 300 tests for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) will be conducted per day.

This is a dramatic increase when compared to what had obtained before the new administration took office, when only about 30 samples were processed per day. In a statement on Friday, the Health Minister says this will change the dynamics of detecting cases at a much faster rate, limiting threats for non-infected persons.

“Our testing capacity is being increased dramatically. Until around June, Guyana’s testing was extremely limited, averaging about 30 tests per day.

By the end of July, Guyana was challenged to reach 100 tests per day, even though the demand was several times that,” the Minister insisted.

Since early August, President Irfaan Ali, VicePresident Bharat Jagdeo, Prime Minister Mark Philips and Minister Anthony have led a team to significantly increase the daily testing output.

As a result, Guyana was able to surpass 200 tests in

COVID-19 cases at present is largely the consequence of the Government’s effort to increase testing. This means cases previously undetected because of low testing rate are now being detected. As we are able to detect cases faster, Guyana will be able to ensure we stop the spread of COVID-19 faster,” said the newly-appointed subject Minister.

False reports

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

a day for the first time on Wednesday, August 19. On Thursday, 248 tests were completed and by early next week, the target will reach 300 tests per day. This increased sample processing has led to the discovery of more positive persons who were not tested before.

“There are now three shifts being done. While we are utilizing one PCR machine with three shifts at this time, we envision using multiple PCR machines by the end of the month, dramatically increasing our capacity for COVID-19 testing.

The increased in positive

The health minister also used the platform to strongly condemn irresponsible social media reports, which has been spreading untruths as it relates to testing for the virus.

The senior health official said that there are no ‘fake tests’ in the national system, nor is any country sending contaminated tests to Guyana. These acts have been labelled as a reckless campaign to spread false information to the public.

“There are no fake tests in the national system and no country is sending contaminated tests to Guyana,” the Minister contended.

He went on to say that Guyana has nurtured an international cooperation platform for COVID-19 testing and Besides working with the Pan American Health

Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO), Guyana is working closely with our counterparts in other Caribbean countries and with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) headquartered in Trinidad.

“Guyana is working closely also with counterparts in the USA, Canada, Europe and other parts of the world. Guyana is grateful for the support we are receiving from many countries around the world and we reject the attempt by misguided individuals trying to cast aspersion against any country,” Dr Anthony added.

It was clarified that COVID-19 testing in

Guyana is done with equipment and testing reagents from only validated and certified sources. The PCR testing for diagnostic purposes is being done at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory with a PCR machine that is used widely in the Caribbean, the US, Canada and Europe and other parts of the world.

“The COVID-19 test reagents which we presently used were supplied by PAHO/WHO. The swabs which we use to obtain specimens from persons who we test have been procured by PAHO/WHO. The test procedures we use in Guyana follow international standards

and is the same standards used in Caribbean countries and in North America and Europe.”

While dispelling the allegations, he highlighted that there is a well-trained testing team, which will be expanded significantly.

Laboratory staff presently engaged in testing for the coronavirus includes medical technologists who are highly qualified while additional 30 technologists are in training. They will be certified, using the same equipment used in Barbados and other Caribbean countries and in the United States and other developed countries. (G12)

35 new COVID-19 cases...

FROM PAGE 9

“Please desist from comparing these two distinctively different methods of testing since the rapid anti-body test is not approved to diagnosed active COVID-19 case and only the molecular PCR can credibly identify infectious persons.”

Over the past week, he said the momentum to wear a mask has increased significantly and should be continued as Guyana seeks to eradicate the virus locally.

On Thursday evening,

the Health Ministry related that a 73- year-old man and patient of the transitional ward at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) died – becoming the country’s 30th death from the coronavirus. According to the Ministry, a swab test was done when the man was admitted to the facility and the results came back as positive following his death.

The ministry said that it has since contacted his relatives and other contacts to facili-

tate contact tracing and rapid assistance to everyone who may have been exposed.

On Wednesday, four COVID-19 deaths were reported. Among those was a 43-year-old woman, who was a patient of the transitional ward at the Georgetown Public Hospital. Upon admission to the GPHC, a swab test was done, and following her death at 09:00 on Wednesday, the results came back as positive.

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14 NEWS

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Continued implosion of APNU: another “cardboard partner” out ...WPA claims non-consultation by PNC

Secretary of WPA, Tacuma Ogunseye

T

he Working People’s Alliance (WPA) – a member of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Coalition – has withdrawn its support for the David Granger-led Coalition.

In a letter to Granger, WPA Secretary Tacuma Ogunseye said that, since the formation of APNU, there has been an active sidelining of the smaller parties. That has caused the WPA to, on many occasions, air its grievances both internally and publicly.

Granger – who is also leader of the PNCR – was told that his Party’s behaviour leaves much to be desired, since it continued to make major APNU decisions without proper consultations.

The WPA said violation of the principles of Coalition politics has threatened to dismantle the APNU on several occasions, but very little have been done to address it.

“In other words, we have had to live with PNC’s decisions being imposed on the rest of the APNU. Unfortunately, although the Coalition is now out of power, nothing has changed for the better within the APNU,” the letter stated.

Ogunseye noted that throughout the life of the APNU, the WPA, to its detriment, has done everything

within its powers to ensure the survival and success of the APNU, and by extension the coalition. The accommodating positions it assumed on critical issues which it would normally condemn have exposed the party both internally and externally to the worst kinds of criticisms imaginable.

He said it has become very clear, even to the WPA’s most hardline supporters of accommodating the PNCR’s transgressions, that it can no longer be business as usual within the APNU. On that note, he remined that the WPA’s contribution to APNU has been relatively formidable.

Though the Party has very limited material resources, it played a critical role in forwarding the principles of the Coalition, as well as jointly crafting the APNU’s manifesto, campaigning, and even defending the party during the electoral impasse.

The five-month electoral impasse was created by the APNU/AFC coalition and its agents over its unsubstantiated claims of winning the March 02 polls.

WPA noted that Coalition Politics is necessary for the survival of Guyana as a viable nation-state, and in pursuit of that objective, it has made the ultimate sacrifice of neglecting the replenishing of its party in deference to the unity and viability of the APNU. “Unfortunately, leaders of the PNCR have not been similarly disposed. So, we continue to witness their bludgeoning of their APNU partners even at a critical time when togetherness is required,” the Party stated.

Ogunseye, in the letter of withdrawal to Granger, stated: “To our utter embarrassment, not for the first time the WPA was informed by the media that APNU had decided on its representatives for the next National Assembly. It was only after we sent a letter to you en-

JFAP, which is led by Chandranarine Sharma, had a seat in the last Parliament, which his son Jaipaul Sharma occupied.

Mrs Sharma said that, as a member of the APNU, their party was never consulted in the crafting of the list, and several correspondences to the PNC went unanswered.

Removal of nominees

APNU/PNC Leader David Granger

quiring about the state of affairs that we were informed by the General Secretary of the PNCR (Amna Ally) that the Chairperson of the WPA is one of the selected persons.

This, of course, was done without any engagement with WPA, thus denying the party an opportunity to determine who its representative should be. We view this as uncomradely, disrespectful, insulting, a gross disregard for principle, and therefore unacceptable.”

This is the second coalition partner which has called out Granger for dictatorial behaviour and non-consultation with APNU partners.

On Tuesday, General Secretary of the JFAP, Savitri Sharma, accused Granger and the PNC of using and discarding the smaller parties.

“We feel that we were used when they needed us, and now that they don’t need us, they kicked the small parties out under the pretext of saying that we are cardboard parties. We were the parties which caused APNU to go into Government. If we were not there, APNU would not have been in Government.

So, they stood on our backs to climb to where they were, and now that they got there, they don’t have need for the support there any longer,” Sharma said during an interview with Guyana Times.

The WPA requested that the names of its two nominees for Parliament and the Region Four Regional Democratic Council seats be removed from the APNU’s list.

“For the record, WPA notes the non-allocation of parliamentary seats to the other small parties. If this is indeed the case, the development has changed the electoral image of the APNU, and in the process, has effectively destroyed the organisation’s election franchise. The time has come when the WPA is forced to draw a line in the sand and say that enough is enough,” Ogunseye said.

Following the announcement of the Parliamentary List for the Coalition on Monday, there have been criticisms from both the PNCR and smaller parties over the non-consultation by Granger. Granger, however, said he consulted, and the best list was crafted.

To that, the WPA stated that there is no recognition of the rights of the partners to contribute to the decision-making process of the APNU. The party said that it is not for the Leader or the General Secretary of the PNCR to determine unilaterally the allocation of seats to each member party of the APNU for Parliament, RDC and NDC. “Mr Granger, we are convinced that there will be no significant attitudinal changes within the APNU on the matters raised above, and those which must engage the attention of the organization and be corrected if it is to regain the Government

WPA Executive member David Hinds

at future elections. It is this conviction and the circumstances referenced that WPA feels it can no longer remain a member of the APNU,” WPA stated.

However, the Party said it is open for reconciliation, but outlined a number of conditions. Among those conditions are the insistence that the WPA be immediately accorded the right to determine who its representative on the APNU list to the National Assembly should be; that principle be enshrined in the APNU Charter’; and that the recommendations of the Corbin Report be implemented.

Should the second and third conditions be met within the next two months, the WPA would revisit its decision to leave.

Granger’s list

Granger, who heads the APNU/AFC election lists, unilaterally selected the APNU Members of Parliament without consulting the small parties.

The APNU/AFC Coalition secured 31 seats at the March 2 General and Regional Elections, and awarded nine of those seats to the AFC faction while the APNU took 22.

The party released its list of MPs, and the representation from the smaller parties in the Coalition is grossly lacking.

The APNU list consists of PNC members: Geeta Chandan-Edmond, Dr Karen Cummings, Annette Ferguson, Nima Flue-Bess, Dawn Hastings-Williams, Dr Nicolette Henry, Coretta McDonald, Maureen Philadelphia, Natasha Singh-Lewis, Amanza Walton-Desir, Ronald Cox, Jermaine Figuiera, Roysdale Forde, Joseph Harmon, Shurwayne Holder, Dineshwar Jaipersaud, Christopher Jones, Vinceroy Jordan, Ganesh Mahipaul, Richard Sinclair; WPA’s Tabitha Sarabo-Halley; and GAP’s Vincent Henry.

Following the announcement of the list, several heavyweights from the PNC – namely, Chairwoman Volda Lawrence, former AG Chair Basil Williams, General Secretary Amna Ally – were absent. Granger explained that they were focusing more on the youth in the party, and hence he, along with the senior leadership was not returning to the National Assembly.

However, this did not sit well with several members in the PNC – especially former MP James Bond – who went on a tirade against Granger on social media. Bond criticised that PNC and its current leadership for not consulting with the party’s membership before making its decision on the parliamentarians.

APNU was formed to contest the 2011 General and Regional Elections, and consists of the second largest political party in Guyana, the PNC, along with Guyana Action Party (GAP), the Guyana Association of Local Authorities (GALA), the Guyana National Congress (GNC), the Guyana People&#39s Partnership (GPP), the Guyana Youth Congress (GYC), the Justice for All Party (JFAP), the National Democratic Front (NDC), the National Front Alliance (NFA), and the Working People’s Alliance (WPA). (G2)

47-year-old woman is Guyana’s 31st COVID-19 fatality

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here has been another death as a result of COVID-19: a 47-yearold woman succumbed on Friday evening while medial seeking treatment.

The Health Ministry made the announcement shortly after the woman died at 18:00h. According to the Ministry, the woman had tested positive and was being treated at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC).

The Ministry, which did not state in which community or region the woman had lived, has said that it is in contact with the woman’s family and relatives to facilitate contact tracing and rapid assistance to everyone

who may have been exposed.

“The Health Ministry expresses sincerest condolences to the family of the deceased, and will make every effort to provide all the necessary support during this difficult time to assist the families to deal with the situation,” the statement from the Ministry read.

This announcement comes one day after the 30th death was recorded on Thursday evening – another patient at the GPHC. A posthumous test on the 73-yearold man confirmed that he had been positive for the coronavirus.

Alarmingly, on Wednesday, the Ministry re-

ported four deaths. The first victim was a 43-year-old woman who had been a patient at the transitional ward of the GPHC. This was followed by the death of a 72-year-old man, who died in the COVID-19

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after receiving medical care for five days. His demise was followed by the deaths of the country’s 28th and 29th victims – who died at the Bartica Hospital in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni)

at about 18:00h, also on Wednesday. The patients who died at the hospital were a male and a female, aged 55 and 41 respectively.

Then, on Tuesday, two other persons who had tested positive for the novel coronavirus died at the Georgetown facility. The patients who died in the ICU of the GPHC were both males, aged 93 and 87.

There was a third death on that same day, a 32-yearold man who succumbed while receiving care at Bartica Hospital. The patient had been resident at Region One (Barima-Waini) but, at the time of his hospitalisation, had been work-

ing in the mining community in the Cuyuni River, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

The man had been rushed to the hospital under suspicion of being infected with malaria, but had later been swabbed because of his previous contact with other possible cases at his work site.

In light of another death this week, the Ministry urged members of the public to observe the COVID-19 emergency measures published in the Official Gazette on August 14. Those persons with symptoms associated with the virus should call all the COVID-19 hotline numbers: 231-1166, 226-7480 or 180/181 for guidance. (G12)

NEWS

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Audit report Police probe

Former Sports Director on bail over alleged theft of state assets …as questions raised over how Jones qualified for $4.9M SLED grant

Former Director of Sport, Christopher Jones

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s the Police launch a probe into the Auditor General’s report which highlighted that some $4.9 million of taxpayers’ dollars were spent to purchase equipment for a non-existent barbershop, Former Director of Sports under the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance for Change (APNU) Coalition Government, Christopher Jones, was released on bail.

Jones was arrested on Friday morning and taken to the Diamond Police Station, but was later released on $100,000 station bail pending a probe into the alleged theft of state assets.

On Thursday, Police went to Jones’s Lot 609 Conciliation Street, Tucville, Georgetown home to conduct a search for state assets.

Police, in a release, stated that a report was made against Jones, alleging that he was in possession of state assets valuing over $4M. Upon receiving the report, ranks of the Guyana Police

Force (GPF) proceeded to investigate by going to the residence of Jones, where he was contacted and told of the purpose of their visit.

According to Police, upon arrival at the residence, the ranks observed items at the home fitting the description of the items reported to be state assets. The Police further stated that contact was made with Jones, who was told of the allegation but refused the lawmen permission to search his property, claiming that they were not in possession of a search warrant.

By then several officials, including executives of both the Peoples National Congress (PNC) and the Alliance for Change (AFC), turned up at the property as Police stood guard. The ranks nevertheless conducted their operation and removed the items.

According to audit documents seen by Guyana Times, Regional Administration received an Inter/Intra Departmental Warrant (IDW) 6/2019 dated June 19, 2019, from the Social Protection Ministry valuing $4.985 million for the procurement of equipment for barber shop under Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED).

The SLED programme works by distributing interest-free cash grants to registered groups and associations needing the economic boost to improve their economic enterprises.

According to the audit report, a Financial Return presented revealed that the full amount was expended as at December 31, 2019. An audit examination of the relevant records revealed that

two payment vouchers to the value of $4.084M and $900,999 were issued for the purchase of the equipment.

Audit documents further discovered that approval was not granted from the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) for the procurement of a Condensing Unit valuing $1.528 million. However, audit checks revealed that the item was still purchased and supplied.

Additionally, audit investigations revealed that the cheque was paid to the supplier on October 2, 2019, but the time of reporting in August 2020, items to the value of $900,999 were not supplied.

Meanwhile, the audit report stated that a physical inspection of the assets purchased revealed that items valuing $4.084M were still not put into use, since these items were stored in a room at the residence of the beneficiary, Christopher Jones.

Further, the audit report stated that details of a letter from the Permanent Secretary of the Social Protection Ministry, dated May 22, 2019, states that the items were to be procured for the beneficiary who ‘operates’ a barber shop.

However, at the time of the physical verification, it was discovered that the beneficiary does not operate a barber shop, since the construction of the said barber shop has not yet commenced.

Questions over approval

On Friday, after being released on station bail, Jones claimed that he had applied for assistance under the SLED programme under

Police unearths ganja on seawall, tombs in Berbice

The parcels of cannabis that were discovered by Police in Berbice

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anks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) have discovered a quantity of marijuana at Kingelly Sea Dam, West Coast Berbice (WCB) on Friday.

Based on information received, the Police, acting on information, went to the area and discovered two large, bulky, transparent plastic parcels among several tombs.

Three motorcycles, bearing registration numbers CK 4203, CK 1363 and CH 7170, along with a green haversack containing one Samsung cel-

lular phone, were found at the scene.

Ranks have said that whilst they were making further checks in the area, a male whose name was given as “Shawn” was in close proximity to the items and was acting in a suspicious manner. As ranks approached him, he started to run. The Police gave chase, but the suspect managed to evade them.

The plastic parcels containing the drugs, along with the motorcycles and the green bag containing the cellphone,

were taken to the Weldaad Police Station, where the ganja, when weighed, amounted to 29,030 grams, or 64 pounds. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.

Meanwhile, also on Friday, Region Five Commander, Senior Superintendent Edmond Cooper, and a team of Police ranks conducted a cordonand-search exercise within the Weldaad Police Station District.

Upon receiving information, the team went to the Weldaad Seawall, where they found two large, transparent, bulky plastic parcels in a clump of bushes. The parcels were picked up and taken to the Weldaad Police Station, where They were opened and revealed a quantity of ganja inside. Upon being weighed, the ganga amounted to 32.658 kg.

No arrest was made, but Police are continuing their investigations.

the then Social Protection Ministry, and the application was approved. However, questions are being raised regarding the process that was used to determine that Jones, a senior Government official at the time, was qualified for such assistance.

There has been widespread criticism over the fact that Jones, as Director of Sport, benefited from the programme which is intended to help vulnerable persons and registered groups and associations needing the economic boost to improve their economic enterprises.

Amna Ali justifies

When contacted on Friday, former Social Protection Minister Amna Ally stated that Jones was qualified to benefit from the programme. she noted that persons who wish to engage in entrepreneurial development can apply. She, however, did not address the issue of how Jones, whose salary as a senior Government official was in a higher earning ceiling, qualified for a programme was that was intended to help vulnerable persons seeking to improve their economic standing.

She, however, went on to say: “Whatever is the amount of money is via the region, and the region goes through the normal procedures; that is: Tender Board procedures and all of that; and that had happened. The

The $4.9M worth of items purchased for the non-existent barber shop being removed from Jones’s house by Police

REO of Region Four can attest to it.”

Granger defends

Meanwhile, Peoples National Congress (PNC) leader David Granger on Friday said the incident was

unwarranted, and was an unlawful deprivation of the rights and freedom of Jones.

He claimed the incident is harassment and politically inspired ‘witch-hunting’ of current and former public servants. (G1)

Lusignan bloody attack…

Victim accuses Police of slothfulness in investigations

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Lusignan, East Coast Demerara (ECD) man who was brutally chopped about his body by a gang of cutlass-wielding, Spanish-speaking nationals about a month ago is disappointed at the manner in which the Police are investigating the incident.

Twenty-two-yearold Safraz Khan, a construction worker of Grass Field, Lusignan, ECD, told Guyana Times that on July 12, 2020 at about 19:00h, he was at home in the presence of a few friends when one of the men with whom he is familiar called out to him.

Khan said he was heading out of the yard to reach the guy, but as he reached the gate, he observed another man in the company of the man who had called out to him. He then saw six other men standing around.

“They were waiting nearby, a barber boy and he brother-in-law was there; the brother-in-law is the one that call me. I went out because I know me and nobody in get no problem.

When I reach by the gate, and before I could have even open the gate, one of them pelt a chop, and I put

Injured: Safraz Khan

up my hand to block it. The other then chopped me to my chest. I turn around and start running.”

Khan said as he ran to the back of the yard, one of the suspects dealt him a chop to his back. As his friends saw what was happening, they too started to run.

“I started running in the dam, and they all keep running behind me. I start-

ed screaming for God, and I keep running. I run through by some bush and I fall down on some people gate.

The come out and they lock up their gate and they carry me to the hospital.”

The young man was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital in an unconscious state, and underwent a number of surgeries. One of his thumbs was severed in the process. The man has said that since the incident, he is unable to move his thumbs.

He expressed frustration at how the Police ranks at Vigilance Police Station are conducting the probe, claiming that he is being given a royal runaround whenever he turns up to inquire about the matter.

Khan explained that no one was arrested, although the Police are aware who are the persons involved.

Regional Commander Parley Parshram, when contacted, also confirmed that no arrest has been made, but noted that his ranks are working tirelessly to apprehend the criminals.

Khan is now calling on the higher authorities for justice.

16 NEWS

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Contractors warned about Govt’s Eastern Airlines to facilitate repatriation intolerance over delayed projects flights in September, October

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Education Minister Priya Manickchand during the site visit at the Good Hope Secondary School

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he slow movement of the Hope Secondary School project is worrying to Education Minister Priya Manickchand, who has visited the site to assess the school’s readiness.

The project was originally the brainchild of the PPP/C Government, however, when the APNU/AFC Coalition took office, they undertook the project, yet it has not been completed to date.

“This school should have been finished in January of 2020. We are now in August 2020, and I’m told by the technical experts on the ground and the consultants that at this pace…with these workers, the school is not going to be finished until May next year. That is wholly unacceptable,” Minister Manickchand is quoted as saying by the Department of Public Information during a site visit on Thursday.

The Education Minister also stated that during the timeline of the project, a number of secondary students have missed a beneficial opportunity.

“I left this project in 2015, and I’m here in 2020 and we’re not finished. You have children that started

high school, who are going to leave high school, (who) did not get to benefit from this project… It’s designed to take off 800 students from Plaisance to this area. And not only 800 students, but to take off the top students in this area; it’s a Grade-A school,” she explained.

She also issued a warning to contractors, stating that such behaviour will not be tolerated under the PPP/C Government.

“People who bid for contracts and win them must ensure they do what they have to do to realise the terms they signed in the contract… I want to sound a warning to contractors: The Ministry of Education, and indeed the Government of Guyana, is not going to be tolerant of projects that go way beyond the time. Most contracts have provisions for liquidated damages, and those are going to start being applied,” Manickchand said in the DPI report.

Further, she said that blame for non-completion could not be laid on the COVID-19 pandemic, as the school was to be completed before the country went into lockdown.

Manickchand remains

committed to seeing completion of the school’s construction. She said she is excited to see the vision of the PPP/C benefit hundreds of students as well as the community as a whole.

The Good Hope Secondary School is a multi-million-dollar project funded by the World Bank. “It’s part of a wider loan…meant to improve our Mathematics, so there’s a softer side that deals with the Mathematics, and there’s the hard side, as we would say, that deals with the construction or making access classrooms and spaces for our students,” Project Coordinator of the Secondary Education Improvement Project, Jimmy Bhojedat, explained.

Bhojedat further noted that a number of other areas are being focused on, including English, Sciences and Technical Education.

The Hope Secondary School is expected to have twenty-six classrooms, a library block, a block for home economics, clothing and textiles, food and nutrition, art, science and IT labs, as well as a block for Technical and Vocational Training.

they will then be shipped to the very vulnerable communities.

“Santa Rosa is the hub for the distribution of essential goods and services, and the lockdown “has cause some limitations to goods and services getting into the area; so, if that has been slowed, it means that our response is going to have an impact in respect to food security and the support to those who are not able to work,” the minister added.

She has assured the CDC that the Ministries of Amerindian Affairs and Local Government will ensure “proper oversight of the distribution”.

Villages expected to benefit from the hampers are Chinese Landing, Kokerite, Waikarebi, Kariako, Warapoka, Assakata, Manawarin, Father’s Beach, Santa Cruz, Waramuri and

Kwebanna; a population of 6128 is targeted.

In early August, mere days after Minister Sukhai’s appointment as Amerindian Affairs Minister, supplies were dispatched to vulnerable villages in Regions Eight and Nine.

Meanwhile, President Irfaan Ali on Wednesday announced a range of COVID-19 relief measures relative to the banking sector, which would guarantee relief to citizens during this time.

Other measures taken were the establishment of a Social and Economic Committee to ensure sustainable interventions for vulnerable families; engaging international partners to secure $4.5 billion in emergency response for households; and ramping up testing, particularly in the hinterland.

Govt dispatches 1200 hampers to Amerindian villages

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total of 1200 cleaning and hygiene kits were Thursday dispatched for eleven indigenous villages along the Moruca, Waini and Barama Rivers in the Moruca sub-district of Region 1 (Barima-Waini).

This forms part of the continuing efforts by the PPP/C Government to assist regions that are affected by the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai was on hand to witness the departure of the supplies, which were prepared by the Civil Defence Commission (CDC).

Minister Sukhai, in an invited comment, said: “It is very timely, as many of the communities are locked in and are unable to work like they would normally (do) in a routine way, because they are affected. Today these hampers would be shipped to Santa Rosa Village, (from) where

everal repatriation flights have been scheduled within the months of September and October to facilitate the return of Guyanese who are still waiting overseas to come home.

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill noted during a recent press conference that these chartered flights will be performed through USbased Eastern Airlines.

As Guyana’s international airports remain closed to keep the COVID-19 situation under control, all incoming flights will arrive at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

“We have been able to resolve the issue of late or delayed flight approvals, so Guyanese could know way ahead of time, in the absence of continuous commercial operation, when flights are available, inbound and outbound. Flights have been approved for the months of September and October

by Eastern Airlines. These will be charter flights for September and October,” the Minister informed.

Flights are scheduled to arrive in Guyana from the Miami International Airport on September 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; and on October 6, 13, 20 and 27. Those from the John F Kennedy Airport will be facilitated on September 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30; and on October 7, 14, 21 and 28. On all the dates

mentioned, flights will be leaving Guyana to return either to Miami or New York.

There are two other flights which are slated for August 25 from Miami and August 26 from New York.

In order to be accepted on a flight to Guyana, the electronic Repatriation Form available via GCAA’s website must be completed. Additionally, a molecular biological PCR test for COVID-19 must be completed and sent to officials within the prescribed timeframe.

Apart from the repatriation flights, only cargo, medevacs, special authorised flights, and technical stops for fuel only are permitted at this time. Officials are working to have a phased reopening of the sector, since during the months of closure, the CJIA has already lost over $1 billion in revenue.

On August 1, the phased reopening of the Cheddi

Jagan and Eugene F Correia International airports was deferred until further notice due to the spike in COVID-19 cases. The National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) had stated that the airport would remain closed to all international flights except for outgoing flights, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights, technical stops for fuel only, and special authorised flights. Reopening was again postponed on August 15 due to the rise in positive coronavirus cases.

The country’s borders and airports were closed on March 17 to bar the importation of positive COVID-19 cases, which has crippled flights.

Meanwhile, Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Colonel (ret’d) Egbert Field, has said the deferral is critical to ensure that the country’s health is protected. (G12)

Lima Sands’ main access road finally upgraded

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esidents of Lima Sands in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) can now breathe a sigh of relief, as their only access road, which was neglected for many years, is being rehabilitated by the Regional Administration.

The residents claim they had pleaded with former Regional Executive Officer Dennis Jaikarran and other officials, but were given empty promises. However, a team of concerned residents met with Regional Chairman Davanand

Works being done on the access road

Mayor of Anna Regina (3rd from left) Deputy Mayor (2nd from Left) Superintendent of Works, and Councillors

Ramdatt and Anna Regina Mayor Rajendra Prabhulall, during an outreach in the area on Thursday last, and vented their concerns. His

Worship, Mayor Prabhulall, admitted that his office had not been getting any assistance from the then REO, although many promises were made. He noted that as a result, many roads, including

that of Lima, had been left neglected.

As such, Chairman Ramdatt instructed the Regional Engineer to immediately look into the complaints, and moreso the state of the road. After doing so, a grader was deployed to the area, and it has commenced work.

Lima Sands residents, especially those of the business and transportation sectors, have, over the past years, been complaining bitterly about the deplorable state of the road, which sometimes becomes impassable.

This had placed tremendous pressure on those residents who had to travel on a daily basis to the Essequibo Coast for work and to sell their produce.

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020

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

Open letter to President Ali

Pyramid Scheme or FOREX Trading

Dear Editor, I’ll start off by saying that I have seen the advertising flooding Facebook and other social media and they are indeed very alluring. Who wouldn’t want to get rich quick without tryI can testify that the bene- ing and all from the comYour Excellency, Your inaugural speech fits are long lasting. I think forts of your very own home was justifiably loud in Guyana should host a spe- with just a few clicks? Some praise for the Caribbean cial edition of CARIFESTA might actually be tempted enough to ‘invest’ their Community. So was your in 2022.

If we start planning now, hard-earned money in these reaffirmation of Guyana’s commitment to this indis- we can do it well! A 2022 hard times to their own detpensable Caribbean insti- special edition can provide riment possibly.

So, will these FOREX tution. In doing this, you the focus, attention, and trading opportunities give demonstrated continuity. support that Guyana’s culyou untold riches or are they You reaffirmed commitment tural sector so sorely needs. simply a pyramid scheme?

President Ali, in the to an institution for which I’ll try to explain simply Guyana has proud and solid spirit of your inaugural without the complicated relations. We were there at speech, pull together an inits conception. At its birth. teragency mechanism, and textbook definitions that public/private/diaspora are used to convince people We are an essential part of a partnership, along with the one way or the other. I deits current life.

In 2022, two years CARICOM Secretariat, to cided to write this because I from now, the idea of begin the planning for a spe- see many of my friends fallCARIFESTA will be 50 cial edition of CARIFESTA ing prey to this scheme and years! That idea came to in 2022 to celebrate the many, I know are honest inlife memorably in 1972 in 50th anniversary of a dis- dividuals who work hard, Guyana. Again, in 2008, tinctive Caribbean gather- save and are simply looking to make some extra money Guyana was the host of this ing. and to ‘save for the future’. most important Caribbean First off, pyramid Sincerely, gathering. We cannot deny schemes are a scam.

They Vibert C. Cambridge, it, CARIFESTAS are speare marketed as being cial moments for the arts Ph.D., A.A very legitimate and offerand the wider community. ing great opportunity but they are simply ‘rip-offs’. So what should you be looking for? Well let’s identify some red flags: 1) Those who are the promoters of a pyramid scheme try to recruit new persons by enticing them with messages of what they will be able to earn. Some ence and could have seen of the appealing pitches Dear Editor, A few days ago, Prime the approximate $10B ear- would include, “change your Minister Mark Phillips marked for the purchase life and work from home”, and Minister within the of new generating sets for “leave your job and be your Ministry of Public Works, GPL being spent to promote own boss”, “get financial Deodat Indar, lamented the development elsewhere in freedom”. If you’ve seen lack of sufficient generat- the country. Apart from such messages being used ing capacity to meet peak that those plants wouldn’t as the primary marketing demand in the Demerara- have required the impor- attraction then it is likely a Berbice Interconnected tation of fossil fuels there- pyramid scheme with promSystem (DBIS). The short- fore constraining our im- ises that are too good to be fall in capacity has forced port bill. And probably most true.

Pyramid schemes are the Government to have the significantly it would have created in such a way that Guyana Power and Light brought in much needed they need a constant supply (GPL) invite proposals from revenue to GuySuCo. of new participants and of private power generators While we should not cry course their ‘money’ to keep to supply electricity to the over spilt milk we must the business flowing and DBIS. be disappointed where they do so through ‘out of As we considered the sit- the uncreative leaderthe world’ promises’.

Your uation, we could not help ship of the immediate past but be saddened. We were Government has placed us. income would not mainly sad, when we learnt, that no As energy demand will rise be based on the selling of major investments in capac- in the coming years with a product (FOREX) but on ity were made during the improved economic pros- how many people you are life of the Coalition to im- perity there is a significant able to recruit.

ASK YOU SELF: Is the prove capacity and thus we opportunity for the sugar scheme you’re investing now find ourselves between industry to make an even in giving the vast majoria rock and a hard place. But more meaningful contributy, if not all of your income, as disturbing as that is, we tion while sustaining its opthrough your ability to atwere even sadder when we erations and promoting retract other people?

If so, recalled that the Coalition newable energy production. then chances are it’s a pyraborrowed $30B which, This task needs to begin mid and a scam. among other things, were with fervor and cane sup2) Pyramid schemes earmarked to construct co- plies must be improved to often offer extravagant regeneration plants at Albion ensure the full utilsation of wards and bonuses for ‘inand Uitvlugt Estates. It co-generation plants where vestors’/participants who is now two (2) years since feasible. are able to meet certain those monies were borgoals such as bringing in a rowed and those plants are Yours faithfully, number of new recruits or not even designed as yet.

Seepaul Narine attending a certain number Those plants would have General Secretary of trainings and advertise made a meaningful differGAWU these to bait the unsuspect-

GuySuCo could have alleviated power woes!

ing.

ASK YOU SELF: Is the scheme you’re investing in giving higher rewards or so-called bonuses based on the number of new persons that you are able to bring in and attaching fancy marketing names and levels to that number such as ‘Diamond’, ‘Platinum’, ‘Crown’, ‘Conqueror’? If so, then chances are it’s a pyramid and a scam.

3) Pyramid schemes usually require repeated fees for such things as socalled ‘training sessions’ or expensive marketing materials.

ASK YOU SELF: Is the scheme you’re investing in charging ‘fees’ for training sessions and other materials? If so, then chances are it’s a pyramid and a scam.

4) Pyramid schemes play on emotions and generally use ‘high-pressure sales tactics’. You will hear such lines as ‘act now or you’ll lose the opportunity to work from home and gain financial freedom’. The ploy is to encourage emotional buying and reduce the time you take to research the scheme.

ASK YOU SELF: Is the scheme you’re investing in using such marketing lines?

If so, then chances are it’s a pyramid and a scam.

5) Pyramid schemes require new investors to pay a fee for the right to sell the products to others or in other words pay a fee for the right to recruit others into the scheme so as to gain rewards/income for bringing more people in and not rewards/income related to the actual product sales (FOREX).

ASK YOU SELF: Is the scheme you’re investing in requiring a fee for the right to recruit others? If so, then chances are it’s a pyramid and a scam.

6) Pyramid schemes under the guise of FOREX traders do not have actual brokers who are the promoters of the scheme.

Therefore, the person who brings you on to the scheme is not a broker who can actually trade and chances are that the company you are signing up with is not a broker either. This means that all trades will be done through someone else; not the person who brings you on or the company you are joining with.

ASK YOU SELF: Is the person bringing me on to the scheme or the company I’m joining up with a broker? If not, then chances are it’s a pyramid and a scam.

7) Pyramid schemes do not have regulatory clearance.

ASK YOU SELF: Does the scheme have regulatory clearance and has the

Guyana Securities Council given authorization? If not, then chances are it’s a pyramid and a scam.

8) Pyramid schemes usually defend themselves by claiming to be MultiLevel Marketing (MLM).

MLM is basically a method of selling products directly to consumers without the in-between ‘retailer’. The products are sold through a network of salespersons and when the MLM is set-up, it resembles that of a pyramid with each salesperson recruiting and training additional salespersons to earn commission on others they get to join on. The pyramidal structure of MLM companies allows many pyramid schemes to be passed off using this fancy name but there is a distinct difference between the two.

ASK YOU SELF: Does the scheme you’re investing in pay you based on your actual product sales to customers without you having to recruit new customers so as to earn income or is your income primarily based on how many people you recruit? If it’s primarily based on the number of persons you recruit then chances are it’s a pyramid and a scam.

9) Pyramid schemes tend to involve the sale of products (in this case FOREX) through salespersons so as to show legitimacy. This is, however, a mere smokescreen that is done simply to sidestep the regulatory bodies and attempt to show that the potential for profit stem from the sale of products and not from recruiting other investors.

This allows them to claim that they are not a pyramid scheme but rather an elaborate Multi-Level Marketing company. The bottom line is that if the majority of your income comes from the recruiting of new investors rather than the sale of the product itself (FOREX) then it is a pyramid regardless of the explanation.

ASK YOU SELF: Does the majority of your income come from the recruiting of new investors rather than FOREX trading? If so, then chances are it’s a pyramid and a scam.

10) Pyramid schemes usually offer products of little or doubtful value that serve as a simple tool to promote the scheme while the real value lays in recruiting new persons.

ASK YOU SELF: Is the product being offered of doubtful value? Is the income derived from trading FOREX little and in most cases doubtful? If so, then chances are it’s a pyramid and a scam.

As a note; FOREX trading in itself is not illegal and not a pyramid scheme.

However, it is not the trading of FOREX that is the issue but the requirement for you to recruit others or pay monthly fees if you want to learn from certain persons. When your income is primarily through the recruiting of others then you have moved away from FOREX trading and entered the realms of a pyramid scheme.

Sincerely, Terrence Jaskaran Chartered Accountant

18 NEWS

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Lincoln Lewis charged for assault

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rade Unionist Lincoln Lewis appeared on Friday before Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh at the Weldaad Magistrate’s Court to answer to charges of assault and making use of threatening language.

The General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress is accused of threatening and assaulting Radesh Lall at Kingelly Village, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) on August 13.

Lall also was charged with the same offences, and both parties were released on their own recognisance. They will make their next court appearance on September 30.

The incident stemmed from a dispute between Lewis and residents of Kingelly Village over ancestral lands dating back to the 1960s. The residents are alleging that Lewis is attempting to seize the land that has been in their possession for years.

The residents are accusing Lewis of a barefaced attempt to seize hundreds of acres of land at Kingelly already in their possession.

The issue has resulted in various forms of litigation as well as a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) being set up to look into claims made by Lewis that the properties are part of his ancestral inheritance.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall has said that there are no records of any transport at the Land Registry to

Businessman Toolsie Persaud dies

P

ioneering Guyanese businessman Toolsie Persaud passed away on Friday morning, after being ill for some weeks.

He was the owner of Toolsie Persaud Ltd. (TPL), a timber and hardware company which has been in operation since the early 1950s.

Trade unionist Lincoln Lewis in confrontation with residents of Kingelly over lands which he is claiming are his ancestral inheritance

prove that several acres of land at Kingelly are in fact ancestral lands belonging to the linage of trade unionist Lincoln Lewis, as he is claiming.

While in Opposition, Nandlall had worked with residents of the Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) village to secure prescriptive titles for the lands that they use for farming purposes, including as pastures for their cattle.

The Attorney General recounted that, in 2017, Lewis first made the claims during the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into African ancestral land established by the then David Granger Administration. It was there he produced a transport which he claimed substantiated his claim that the land was ancestral: bought by his great-great-grandfather.

Nandlall had represented between 25 to 30 residents, and had obtained prescriptive rights from the Land Court for them.

However, weeks ago, Lewis turned up at Kingelly and claimed ownership of the lands, which he said were part of his ancestral inheritance. He was in the company of two others, including a member of the Kingelly Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC).

Not only did Lewis renew his claims to the lands, but he also tore down fencing that residents had elected, and proceeded to build his own fence in order to block residents from accessing the lands.

The confrontation between Lewis and the residents was captured on video.

In that video, he is seen claim-

ing ownership of the lands, and as such, was asked by the residents to produce proof of ownership. At one point, he had even pushed down a post that residents had erected.

The residents, most of whom said they were born and grew up there, claim that they have lived and farmed on the lands for decades, after inheriting it from their parents and/or grandparents.

They were using the lands mostly as pastures.

According to the residents, Lewis is claiming the lands because he was supposed to sell them off.

After that incident, the villagers travelled to Georgetown and met with several ministers, including Housing, Public Works and Local Government; as well as Nandlall himself, as they sought to have redress. (G4)

Local entertainers to join frontline in fight against COVID-19

Toolsie Persaud (Photo credit: Staborek News)

Mobile pump installed at #52 Village to assist with drainage

The mobile pump that was installed (DPI photo)

T

he National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) has installed a mobile pump at the No. 52 outfall channel on the Corentyne Coast in Region Six (East Berbice-

his visit to the region days after the flooding occurred, ordered that machines be deployed to affected areas to carry out much-needed clearing of several drains and canals that were clogged

A

newly-formed group of local entertainers, ‘Entertainers on the Frontline’, earlier today submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Health on how they can provide support to the national efforts in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The proposals were presented to Dr Leslie Ramsammy and Nazim Hussain at the Ministry of Health on Brickdam. Dr Ramsammy and Hussain represented the Health Minister, Hon. Dr Frank Anthony, who was in a Cabinet meeting.

The submission of the proposal stemmed from a prior meeting with Dr. Anthony and Minister of Public Affairs within the Office of the Prime Minister, Hon. Kwame McCoy, on August 19 at the Arthur

The water being drained (From left) Nazim Hussain, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, Nigel Worrel, aka ‘DJ Fox’, and WR Reaz at the Health Ministry

Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), where the involvement of local entertainers was discussed in conveying COVID-19-related health protocol messages to all Guyanese.

Founder of local en-

tertainment agency Team MMR, WR Reaz, and Nigel Worrel, popularly known as ‘DJ Fox’, represented the entertainers’ group.

WR Reaz told DPI that Dr Ramsammy was impressed with the team’s presenta-

tion.

“Given it was under 48 hours, Dr Ramsammy assured us that work will start, and from his confidence, we are very optimistic that our proposal will be accepted,” WR Reaz said.

Corentyne).

According to the NDIA, the installation will assist with draining the No 51 canal. Over the last few weeks, farmers from several East Berbice communities were affected by major flooding due to heavy rains.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, during

2 fined $16,000 each for violating COVID-19 restrictions

T

wo persons were each fined $16, 250 after they were arrested and charged for breaching the gazetted COVID-19 restrictions.

Siewnandan Harricharran and Bisnauth Lalta appeared before Magistrate Crystal Lambert at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court.

During the virtual hearing, Lalta was also charged for refusing to take a breathalyzer test, disorderly behaviour, resisting arrest by a Police officer, and assaulting a Police officer.

He pleaded not guilty to all the charges, and was placed on $10,000 bail for refusing to take a breatha-

lyzer test, $5000 for disorderly behaviour, $20,000 for resisting arrest by a Police officer and for assaulting a Police officer. These cases will continue on September 14.

Only last week, 40 persons were arrested at two separate bars for flouting the COVID-19 restrictions which are in place to curb the spread

of the novel coronavirus. They were all placed on bail pending their court appearance.

The Guyana Police Force and the Health Ministry continue to call on persons and businesses to adhere to the emergency measures, which among other things prohibit large public gatherings.

for some period of time.

During his engagement with farmers and residents, the Minister said mechanisms would immediately be put in place to ensure flooding in the Region is monitored and controlled.

“I have instructed my officers to address these issues immediately. We are working to have mobile pumps deployed to areas that need urgent attention,” the minister is quoted by the Department of Public Information as saying.

Minister Mustapha visited Upper Corentyne areas from Union to No. 58 Village. He also visited the Mocundo dam, the sluice at No. 52 Village, and the drainage pump stations at Joppa and Eversham.

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil falls 1% on sluggish coronavirus recovery, supply concerns

O

il prices lost about 1 per cent on Friday as the economic recovery worldwide runs into stumbling blocks due to renewed coronavirus lockdowns and on worries about rising crude supply.

The euro zone’s economic recovery from its deepest downturn on record stalled this month as pent-up demand unleashed by the easing of lockdowns in July dwindled, a survey showed. By contrast, US housing and manufacturing survey data came in better than expected.

Brent crude LCOc1 futures settled at US$44.35 a barrel, down 55 cents, 1.2 per cent. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude CLc1 futures settled at US$42.34 a barrel, falling 86 cents, or 1.1 per cent.

Brent fell about 1 per cent for the week, while WTI saw a weekly rise of nearly 1 per cent.

India’s crude oil imports fell in July to their lowest level since March 2010, while US motorists drove 13 per cent fewer miles in June than a year earlier, according to the US Department of Transportation.

Libya’s national oil company said it could restart oil exports after the North African country’s internationally recognised Government in Tripoli announced a ceasefire, putting further pressure on oil prices.

“This is a market that can’t afford to absorb any additional barrels,” said John Kilduff, partner at Again Capital LLC in New York. “While I’m happy for them in striking a peace deal, it’s problematic for the global supply situation and so that’s a big part of today’s selloff.”

Those barrels would add to the output from OPEC+, which consists of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies, including Russia. That group has been focused on ensuring members that had overproduced against their commitments would cut output.

An internal report showed the group wanted oversupply between May and July compensated for with cuts this month and next, Reuters reported.

The report also showed OPEC+ expects oil demand in 2020 to fall by 9.1 million barrels per day, and by as much as 11.2 million bpd if there is a resurgence of coronavirus infections.

The US oil and natural gas rig count, an indication of future supply, increased this week for the first time since March, energy services firm Baker Hughes Co said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Rowley in self-quarantine after coming into contact with COVID-19 person

P

rime Minister Dr Keith Rowley has been tested for COVID-19 and would be in self-quarantine.

This after it was revealed he had had contact with someone on election night who tested positive for the virus.

Dr Rowley made the revelation on his Facebook page earlier on Friday but noted the result returned negative.

“It came to my atten-

tion, last night, that on Monday 10th, I was exposed to someone who later tested positive for COVID-19. I have been tested and the results are negative.”

“Out of an abundance of caution I have been advised to remain in quarantine at home until next Monday, when the full fourteen-day period would

have expired,” he advised.

He also used the opportunity to appeal to citizens to adhere to the public health guidelines.

“With the discipline that is expected of us, together we can fight and beat the uncontrolled expansion of this virus,” he said.

(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Protesters set fire Russia clears Kremlin to Iraq Parliament's regional office in Basra critic Navalny to be airlifted to P Germany in coma

R

ussian doctors said on Friday that gravely ill Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny could be flown to Germany to receive medical care after the opposition politician’s allies accused the Russian authorities of trying to stop his evacuation.

Navalny’s life was not in immediate danger, he was in an induced coma and his brain was in a stable condition, the medical staff at a hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk said.

Kira Yarmysh, Navalny’s spokeswoman, said she expected him to be flown out this morning.

Navalny, a long-time opponent of President Vladimir Putin and a campaigner against corruption, collapsed on a plane on Thursday after drinking tea that his allies believe was laced with poison.

German doctors flew in to

Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley

evacuate Navalny, 44, at the request of his wife and allies who said they feared authorities might try to cover up clues as to how he fell ill and that the hospital treating him was badly equipped.

Medical staff at the Omsk hospital initially said on Friday that while Navalny’s condition had improved slightly overnight he was in too unstable a state to be safely transported out of the country.

But late on Friday, they said they would not object to him being moved after the German doctors were granted access to Navalny and said they thought he was fit to travel. A senior doctor at the hospital, Anatoly Kalinichenko, said the hospital could help transport Navalny to the airport and that he would be moved within several hours. (Excerpt from Reuters)

rotesters in the southern Iraqi city of Basra have set fire to the Parliament's local office as security forces fired live rounds in the air to disperse them, reports said.

At least eight security personnel were injured in the clashes, Ali al-Bayati, spokesman for the semi-official Independent High Commission for Human Rights, told The Associated Press news agency on Friday.

The protesters had gathered to demand that Iraq's Parliament sack the provincial governor after two activists were killed and others wounded in three separate attacks by unknown gunmen this week.

Security forces opened fire while the protesters lobbed petrol bombs.

Demonstrators burned the outer gate of the entrance to the Parliament building in Basra province,

an area that produces the lion's share of the crude exporting country's oil.

The building holds the local offices of Iraq's main Parliament building in the capital, Baghdad.

It was the most violent incident in Basra since the October mass anti-Government demonstrations when tens of thousands took to the streets to decry Government corruption in Baghdad and across the south.

Destabilising protests also erupted in Basra in the summer of 2018.

Activist Reham Yacoub, who had led several women's marches in the past, was killed on Wednesday and three others were wounded when gunmen, brandishing assault rifles on the back of a motorcycle, opened fire on their car. A second female occupant of the car later died. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Coronavirus pandemic could be over within 2 years — WHO Head Chilean policeman appears in court over blinding of protest student

T

he Head of the World Health Organisation (WHO) said he hopes the coronavirus pandemic will be over in under two years.

Speaking in Geneva on Friday, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the Spanish flu of 1918 took two years to overcome.

But he added that current advances in technology could enable the world to halt the virus "in a shorter time".

The deadly flu of 1918 killed at least 50 million people.

The coronavirus has so far killed almost 800,000 people and infected 22.7 million more.

Dr Tedros also responded to a question about corruption relating to personal protective equipment (PPE) during the pandemic, which he described as "criminal".

"However, corruption related to PPE... for me it's actually murder. Because if health workers work with-

A

out PPE, we're risking their lives. And that also risks the lives of the people they serve."

Although the question related to allegations of corruption in South Africa, a number of countries have faced similar issues.

On Friday, protests were held in the Kenyan capital Nairobi over alleged graft during the pandemic, while doctors from a number of the city's public hospitals went on strike over unpaid wages and a lack of protective equipment. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Chilean police special forces operative appeared in court on Friday over the blinding with rubber bullets of a student during protests over inequality in November last year.

Lieutenant Colonel Claudio Crespo was detained at his home in the capital Santiago early on Friday morning, the Chilean prosecutor’s office said, on suspicion of being the officer who fired the shots that blinded Gustavo Gatica in both eyes.

Gatica, 22, a psychology student at a Santiago university, was one of two people blinded in both eyes by police rubber bullets. At least 400 more people were injured or blinded in one eye, according to Chile’s human rights watchdog, in a grisly feature of the protests that has driven anger towards the centre-right Government of President

Gustavo Gatica, 22, a Chilean student blinded in both eyes by Police rubber bullets in a protest last year, smiles inside his house in Santiago, Chile, February 2, 2020

Sebastian Pinera.

The protests over inequal-

ity and elitism in Chile also resulted in at least

31 people killed, 3000 injured, and 30,000 detained.

Prosecutors are probing allegations of abuse made by over 5000 people against the security forces.

The arrest comes before the first anniversary of the outbreak of protests on Oct 18, and in anticipation of more amid the economic hardship wrought by the coronavirus pandemic.

The delayed investigation into the Gatica shooting has provoked further criticism of the authorities. Gatica told Reuters in March this year that until justice was done in his case and others, people would continue to protest.

Crespo appeared before a court in Santiago on charges of grievous bodily harm and misconduct. A spokesman for Chile’s investigative police said they did not rule out further arrests. (Excerpt from Reuters)

20

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

Get involved in a project that moves you. Romance is on the rise, and discussing plans with a loved one will lead to a positive change.

Set your sights on self-improvement projects.

Do something physical; it will pump you up and help you make lifestyle improvements.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Use discretion when discussing personal matters.

Listen attentively to what others have to contribute.

You’ll be offered information that can help you make a wise decision.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Look for the positive in whatever situation you face.

Put your time and energy where it counts. Establish what you want to achieve and set your priorities wisely.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Go over any changes you want to make with an eye toward expense. Sticking to a tight budget will put your mind at ease and streamline matters.

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

Emotions will take control, and your temper will flare up if you jump to conclusions. Take a moment to think matters through before you say or do something you’ll regret.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SUDOKU SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

SOLUTION FOR SATURDAY'S PUZZLE AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Don’t give in to manipulative people. Spend less time bickering and more time engaging in competitive pursuits. Keeping busy will help you avoid letting others take advantage of you.

Your secretive nature will pay off. Make plans with a loved one and focus on romance and lifestyle changes you want to make.

A physical improvement will boost your confidence.

You’ll face opposition if you are too vocal about your likes and dislikes. Don’t expect someone to play fair or give you an honest opinion.

Stick close to home.

Discuss the changes you want to make, the cost involved and the help you will need. The response you receive will encourage you to get moving.

Check personal papers, and update any documents that are about to lapse.

Putting your finances in order will give you a better understanding of how best to spend and save your money.

Pay more attention to your health, appearance, family and friends. A change of attitude regarding work will encourage better relationships with the people who mean the most to you.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020

21

IKO Academy of Guyana pays courtesy call on Minister Ramson Jnr

L-R: Vice President Waynewright Orderson; Karatekas Tyler Orderson, 3rd Dan; Tashana Wong, 3rd Dan; Aliya Wong, 3rd Dan; Professor Aubrey Mendonca; Hon Minister Charles Ramson Jr; Shihan Jeffrey Wong, 7th Dan; Eulex Stephens, Committee Member; Karateka Chelsea Ram, 2nd Dan; Trevor Hurry, Committee Member; Karateka Otto Harris, 2nd Dan

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he International Karate Organization [IKO] Academy of Guyana recently paid a courtesy call on Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, the Honourable Charles Ramson Jr, at his office on Main Street, Georgetown.

Led by the Chairman and Chief Instructor of the IKO Academy of Guyana, Shihan Jeffrey Wong, 7th Degree Black Belt, the delegation included Vice Chief Instructor and Vice Chairman, Professor Aubrey Mendonca; Vice President Waynewright Orderson; Committee Members Trevor Hurry and Eulex Stephens; and Karatekas Aliya Wong, Third Dan; Tyler Orderson, Third Dan; Tashana Wong, Third Dan; Otto Harris, Second Dan; and Chelsea Ram, Second Dan. Waynewright Orderson detailed to the Minister the Academy’s plans for developing the sport of Karate-do in Guyana over the next five years and beyond, and made proposals on how the Academy could collaborate with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport to advance the martial arts and combat sport throughout the length and breadth of Guyana.

Professor Aubrey Mendonca pointed out to the Minister that, contrary to the belief held in some quarters, martial arts classes do not make youngsters violent. He asserted that juvenile delinquents in Guyana could benefit from those classes to aid in their rehabilitation.

He highlighted that learning karate can combat

bullying, as research has shown that martial arts reduces physical and verbal aggression, theft, and vandalism.

He also indicated that, with the Ministry’s permission, the Academy intends to provide free classes to help rehabilitate delinquents at the Juvenile Holding Centre at Sophia and at the New Opportunity Corps (NOC) Holding Centre on the Essequibo Coast in Region Two. Karateka Tyler Orderson, in his presentation to the Minister, dealt with the concept of sports tourism, particularly the discipline of karate-do and the impact it could have on our country’s economy. He shared his experiences and observations in North America and Asia, and urged that Guyana give some serious attention to this niche market through the hosting of more international martial arts tournaments and training camps.

He pointed out that sports tourism is a huge and growing industry around the world, with important economic implications for the sport, the event, and the impact of travel and tourismrelated benefits on host destinations.

He expressed the belief that sports tourism could become a viable and sustainable component of Guyana’s overall tourism product, making a tangible contribution to national development.

Karateka Aliya Wong underscored the benefits that karate training can have on the

Ninvalle organises virtual boxing seminar for coaches

S

teve Ninvalle, Chairman of the Caribbean Steering Committee for Boxing, has organised a virtual seminar for coaches. The seminar will be conducted on September 20th by the respected Chairman of the AIBA Referees/Judges Commission, American Ray Silvas.

Ninvalle explained that Silvas would be working with Caribbean coaches to update them on what referees and judges look for during fights.

“We think it is important for our coaches to be equipped with the knowledge of how judges score fights, and what are considered infringements by the referee. Many coaches are not fully aware of some of these rules, which can result in an ‘unconscious’ defeat of our boxers,”

Ninvalle has said.

This is the third such seminar to be organised by Ninvalle in a short span of time.

Silvas has, just last weekend, completed a two-day seminar for referees and judges from the English-speaking Caribbean, Haiti, Curacao and Suriname. Over one hundred and fifty officials participated in the event, which marked the largest gathering of Caribbean referees and judges ever.

As Vice President of the 43-nation Americas Boxing Confederation, Ninvalle had in July organised a virtual seminar for coaches in the English-speaking Caribbean, and that seminar was conducted by Puerto Rican Jose Lauren. Eighty officials from the Caribbean had participated.

children of Guyana: in helping them to build their self-confidence and emotional skills so they have the chance to reach their full potential in everything they do.

She proffered the desire of the IKO Academy of Guyana to introduce Karate classes in the school system all across Guyana. This would be done through the Physical Education curriculum, since the physical education and sport syllabus of CSEC offered by CXC includes karate-do as one of the subject areas.

Miss Wong said that although the benefits are there for all to see, some people still regard martial arts as a violent physical activity, rather than as a form of self-defence, and she suggested that the best way to get rid of such false ideas was to promote the true value of martial arts in the schools.

Shihan Jeffrey Wong assured the Minister that even though Guyana is in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic like every other country in the world, it is his intention, when it is considered safe and responsible to resume training, to abide by the Ministry of Health and Government of Guyana restrictions and recommendations regarding limits on social gatherings, physical distancing and hygienic measures.

The Chief Instructor outlined to the Minister the protocols that the Academy has developed for the various clubs/dojos under its purview to reduce risk as they return to karate training

during t h e COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. First, there will be the physical distancing requirements, wherein all participants, coaches and staff must keep a physical distance of 2m apart at all times, and physical contact of any kind would not be permitted. Second, there will be the rigorous sanitisation requirements for the proper sanitation of all areas within their dojos, including all equipment being disinfected after each individual use, including all high contact surfaces such as doorknobs, counters and benches, which must be wiped before the start of every class. Additionally, all mats and washrooms will have to be sanitised daily, preferably after each session (class).

Basic hygiene rules such as handwashing and not touching one’s face would be strictly enforced in the clubs/dojos. Hand sanitisers would be available upon entry into the club/ dojo as well as within the training areas.

Third, there will be strict adherence to public gathering requirements, to ensure that all dojos comply with maximum public-gathering limits.

The Minister thanked the delegation for its visit, and assured the Academy that as an avid sportsman himself, he and the Ministry are committed to working along with all sporting bodies for the benefit of the people of Guyana.

Guyanese Archers to participate in Online Archery Americas Cup

Guyana’s Wayne De Abreu will be participating

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rchery Guyana on Thursday announced that they have been invited to participate in the Online Archery Cup of the Americas, which is organised by World Archery Americas.

The invitation came as a result of Archery Guyana being closely affiliated to World Archery Americas (WAA).

The objective of this exercise is to have the spirit of competition on a virtual arena whilst abiding with the COVID-19 safety measures across the Americas (North, South and Central America and the Caribbean).

Archery Guyana is tasked with conducting Qualification rounds, each of which would be a 600 round. Scores will be recorded electronically, pictures of equipment, scorecards and the target will be sent to the Competitions and Judging Committee via Whatsaap for tabulation and scrutiny.

Seven archers will be undertaking the

challenge of recording the highest score out of 600 for Guyana. Canada-based Guyanese Wayne DeAbreu and Devin Persaud will be shooting from an Archery facility in Canada; while Umasankar Madray, Nicholas Hing, Robert Singh, Samira Duncan and Talitha Kissoon will be shooting from various locations in Guyana.

Cognisant of the National COVID-19 protocols in place, and abiding with the laws and social distancing safety requirements in regard to the limit on the number of persons permitted to be in any gathering, shooting will be done in pairs at different time and dates (23rd and 25th August).

Archery Guyana will then submit the scores for Guyana by August 31st to World Archery Americas, and those scores will be tabulated along with scores from all other participating countries. Top 2 archers in each category would be shortlisted to take part in an Elimination shoot set for late September.

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020

Government of Guyana is Committed – Minister Ramson

L-R - Hon. Minister Charles Ramson Jr., Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCY&S); and Wayne Forde, GFF President, following the draw

F

IFA on Wednesday conducted the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) World Cup Qatar 2020 qualifier draw, and the Guyanese Senior Men’s National Team was drawn in Group F. The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) hosted a socially distanced viewing event for the draw with

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, GFF president Wayne Forde and other football administrators. Following the event, President Forde said Guyana is in a competitive group, but “we’re up to the task”.

In calling for corporate and governmental support, he added that football can serve to unify this country. “We know this will not be an

easy campaign, but we’re up to this task. We have a few weeks. If the October window remains open, we have a few weeks to prepare. We’re trusting that the COVID-19 situation can be brought under control, and we can get our national team back into training.

“We take this opportunity to ask our stakeholders: Corporate Guyana, Government of Guyana… once we complete our preparation plan, to come on board and give us all the support that they can, to make all of Guyana proud and to give football the opportunity to bring this beautiful nation together at this opportune time,” Forde said.

“We want to be able to promote football in Guyana as part of the Government’s programme, working in a collaborative way,” replied Minister Ramson while pledging the Government of Guyana’s support. “Sport is important to the President of Guyana, sport is important to me, and we don’t only want to say it, we want to show it; and that’s why I wanted to make

the time to be here with you when Guyana is being drawn and to know where it’s going to play”.

Guyana will play its first and second match in the CONCACAF Qualifiers of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 respectively away to Trinidad and Tobago on October 8, and at home to Bahamas on October 13, as it begins its campaign.

“You can expect hearing from me just as much as I expect to hear from you; and inasmuch as we can do, you can expect that as well,” the Minister declared.

“There’s a lot of things we’re facing at the moment, but we are willing to explore innovative ways for partnership. We will work in a collaborative way, once the objective is to showcase Guyanese talent and develop Guyanese talent,” the Minister added.

Guyana’s final preliminary matches will be in the November FIFA window in St. Kitts and Nevis on November 13, and at home against Puerto Rico on November 17.

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RHTY&SC, MS, Gregory Gaskin Memorial Berbice Sports Awards…

BCB, Ross, Giddings, Balram and Gajnabi cop 2019 Sports Awards

T

he Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) and its ten cricket teams on Thursday last hosted their Annual Gregory Gaskin Memorial Berbice Sports Award with sponsorship from the Basil Butcher Trust Fund.

Sports Personality Awardee Deonarine Balram receives his award from Simon Naidu, Asst Secretary/CEO RHTY&SC, MS

The award is held yearly in memory of Gregory Gaskin, late founder of COPS Security Service and formerly an outstanding supporter of sports in Guyana.

National Volleyball outside- attacker Shamroy Ross and West Indies female cricketer Shabika Gajnabi won the prestigious Male and Female Sports Award for 2019, while West Indies female cricketer Erva Giddings received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her contribution to cricket over the last fifteen years.

The proactive Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) carried home the Sports Organisation of the Year award, while businessman Deonarine Balram of the popular Shane General Store was named Sports Personality for his support of all sports in the Ancient County during this year.

RHTY&SC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster has said the ten cricket teams are forging ahead with plans to fulfill most of their activities despite the ongoing corona pandemic. This, he said, is being done while observing the strict guidelines set by the Government. Foster disclosed that due to social distancing protocol, no official programme was held, but the awardees were invited to receive their awards on an individual basis.

Foster noted the importance of sports in the development of character in youths, and hailed all the awardees as positive role models for youths to emulate. He urged them to uphold the high standards they have set themselves in the past, and to work even harder to achieve even more success.

The RHTY&SC, Foster stated, would continue to be the premier youth and sports organisation in Guyana, and the club is proud to be involved in honouring the memory of Gaskin.

S h a m r o y Ross, in 2019, represented the GuySuCo Training Centre in Berbice and the National Volleyball Team with great success as an outside-attacker. Ross was named the Berbice Volleyball Association’s Most Valuable Player for 2019.

Gajnabi made her debut for the West Indies at the senior level, after

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

NOW!

Sportsman Shamroy Ross is surrounded by Sportswoman Shabika Gajnabi and Lifetime Achievement Awardee Erva Giddings

outstanding performance for Berbice and Guyana. Giddings made her West Indies debut in 2008, and, over the years, has been an outstanding performer for the RHTY&SC, Berbice and Guyana.

For over a decade, Giddings has played among her male co u nte r p a r t s at the second division level with great success, claiming over two hundred wickets.

The BCB has been the leading county board over the years, and in 2019 successfully completed over twenty-five tournaments and dozens of the field developmental programmes.

The Sports Personality of the Year,

Deonarine Balram, is known across Berbice for his wholehearted support of sports. Over the last twenty years, he has been the sole sponsor of the Balram Shane Memorial Cricket and Volleyball tournaments.

RHTY&SC Asst Secretary Simon Naidu handed over all the awards, which included a trophy, medal, certificate of excellence, and a collection of special prizes. The ten cricket teams of the RHTY&SC are Poonai Pharmacy Under 12 and 13, Farfan and Mendes Under 15, Bakewell Under 17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under 19 and Intermediate, Metro Female, Namilco Thunderbolt Under 21 and First Division.

The joint RHTY&SC/BCB Basil Butcher Memorial project has distributed more than $4M worth of items and sponsored several events in tribute to the legendary West Indies batsman Basil Butcher, who died last December at the age of eighty-six.

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020

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“We want to be peaking at the back end of this tournament,” says GAW Captain Chris Green — Hetmyer impresses Paul

By Brandon Corlette

T

he Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) have had an unfamiliar start to their campaign in the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 tournament. After two matches, the Warriors have recorded one defeat and one win.

Captain Chris Green is, however, happy with the way things have turned out. He says his team is focused on peaking in the latter part of the tournament.

"There is no sense peaking in games one and two; we want to be peaking at the back end of the tournament, and that's what our aim is: peaking in game 12 and doing something that we (have) never done," Green said, while signalling that his intention is to win a maiden CPL title.

The five-time CPL finalists were pleased with the form shown in both matches by the currently red-hot Shimron Hetmyer, the talented left-hander having stroked two half-centuries and appeared to be a more controlled player.

In the second match, Keemo Paul “came to the party” and returned impressive bowling figures of 4 for 19.

Captain Chris Green has said he is impressed with the local duo, who looked determined.

He says he is looking to give Paul the opportunity to be the man.

Batting at number three is a difficult task in T20 cricket, but Green strongly believes that Hetmyer has the ability to set the blue-

Shimron Hetmyer continued to be consistent

print for the other batsmen to follow.

The Warriors lost wickets “in bundles” in a low and tricky run chase in match two, and Green says the aim is to improve on performance, instead of “losing wickets in clusters” moving ahead in this tournament.

Green says the team is aiming to improve its performance in every game, and work on the positives. In the first game, the bowling was rusty, and Green disclosed that the management spoke about this, and improvements were shown in the second match.

Meanwhile, the declared ‘man of the match’ in the second game, Keemo Paul, has said he is happy to have returned figures of 4-19, but is disappointed with producing a golden duck in his batting. The all-rounder says it is im-

portant for him to contribute in all areas of the game, and he is aiming to maintain that all-round standard.

Speaking about Hetmyer's performance, Paul has described Hetmyer as a fantastic player. "He is a very dedicated worker. He is always up for the challenge, and then he just blasts the bowlers. He is a top-class player. I think he has a really long career (ahead of him), and I am super proud of him. I think there is a lot more to come from him," Paul said, while displaying brotherly love for Hetmyer.

New Zealand international player Ross Taylor had said before the second match that he is aiming to anchor the innings and lend some knowledge to the younger players in the

Chris Green took the big wicket of Evin Lewis (Photos: CPL T20)

GAW team.

The Warriors will now focus on their next match: against the fresh Jamaica Tallawahs on Saturday, August 22, at 14:15 hours.

GAW aiming to extend strong performances in clash with Tallawahs

T

Glenn Phillips celebrates

he Guyana Amazon Warriors will take on the Jamaica Tallawahs in the eighth match of CPL 2020 today (Saturday August 22), at the Brian Lara Cricket Stadium in Trinidad.

The Warriors registered their first win of the campaign over

St Kitts and Nevis Patriots on Wednesday, courtesy of good performances from Keemo Paul and Shimron Hetmyer.

Meanwhile, the Tallawahs come off a loss to the Trinbago Knight Riders on Thursday.

A disciplined bowling effort

was the main reason for the Guyana Amazon Warriors’ win of their previous match. Keemo Paul was brilliant in picking up four wickets in his four overs, conceding just 19 runs.

Skipper Chris Green and Imran Tahir bowled tight spells as well, and picked up some wickets, while the other two pace bowling options kept things compact.

Brandon King should look to stay longer at the crease, while Shimron Hetmyer has been brilliant. Chandrapaul Hemraj kept him company before he got runout. There was a mini-batting collapse of their middle-order, which does need to be corrected, but Hetmyer's innings ensured that it didn't affect the result. They can be expected to contest this next match with the same XI. Jamaica Tallawahs’ Asif Ali has done a good job with the bat in the CPL so far. The Jamaica Tallawahs struggled to put enough runs on the board, as their top order collapsed in their previous match, except for a fighting innings from Glenn Phillips.

Asif Ali and Andre Russell

Tahir celebrates a wicket

were the two other main contributors with the bat, but they didn't look like they were in their element, and struggled to find boundaries.

Jermaine Blackwood could replace Nicholas Kirton, who has had successive failures with the bat. The Tawallahs did put up a tough fight with the ball, but some expensive overs from Russell and Brathwaite torpedoed the hard work done by Mujeeb and

Fidel Edwards. Ramaal Lewis was ineffective as well, and the Tallawahs should consider bringing Veerasammy Permaul back into the side.

The Warriors have better momentum going into this match, as they looked very confident in their last outing. The Tallawahs' bowling hasn't been that great, and the Warriors batsmen can take advantage of that. The Warriors are certainly favoured to win this match.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2020

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GAW aiming to extend strong performances in clash with Tallawahs Government of Guyana is Committed – Minister Ramson Pg 22

Ninvalle organises virtual boxing seminar for coaches Pg 22

Minister Ramson (at Centre) among others at the FIFA World Cup - CONCACAF Qualifiers - Viewing Party held at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)

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