Guyana Times - Saturday, July 9, 2022

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

Issue No. 5064

THE BEACON OF TRUTH SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

PRICE

Eid-Ul-Adha

“Let us collectively lock arms to keep out vices of hatred, bitterness and prejudice” – Pres Ali …as Opposition calls for Guyanese to recommit to ideals of unity, selflessness Page 7

Govt partners with Mount Sinai, Hess Corp to transform Guyana’s healthcare

Page 3

WHAT'S INSIDE:

July 20 set for hearing of Opposition’s challenge P21 to Top Cop’s appointment “I wish you well” – Judge tells man after sentencing him to life for killing pensioner P23 Cop to face judge, jury for Orin Boston’s P24 death Duo abandon over 1kg ganja after being P22 stopped by Police

…to establish Centres of Excellence for heart, cancer …30% discount for Guyanese patients

Father of 5 80-member Saudi delegation stabbed in Guyana today to explore investment opportunities to death Page 2

$100 VAT INCLUDED

Page 10

Fmr GDF on the run after stabbing girlfriend, her mother Page 22

Unvaccinated Region 7 resident succumbs to P20 COVID …91 new positives reported

Guyana receives 40,800 Moderna COVID-19 P25 vaccines from South Korea

2 NEWS

SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

80-member Saudi delegation in Guyana today to explore investment opportunities

A

s Guyana continues to attract more interest from countries and companies around the world, the country will field a large delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia this weekend to advance talks and collaboration in both the public and private sectors.

The almost 80-member delegation, which includes high-level Government representatives such as Deputy Ministers, is slated to arrive in Guyana today for the two-

day visit. The executives from other State agencies such as Saudi Development Fund and Saudi Aramco along with major private companies will also be a part of the contingent.

Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance Dr Ashni Singh told Guyana Times on Friday that a major investment forum is slated to be held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) in Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown. This will facilitate local public and private sector

stakeholders being linked with their Saudi Arabian counterparts to explore areas of mutual benefit and cooperation.

“Recognising the remarkable potential of Guyana in particular, they have decided to field a Guyana specific mission… And we will have a dedicated Saudi Arabia-Guyana investment engagement [because] we have a number of very important Government agencies… We have also a number of very high-level representatives of large Saudi pri-

President Dr Irfaan Ali with Saudi Arabia’s Minister Prince Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir in Suriname last weekend

vate sector companies,” he explained.

Today’s engagement will feature a plenary that will see an address by President Dr Irfaan Ali as well as presentations by several Guyanese Ministers.

“We will have sectorial

presentations by a number of Ministers articulating sectoral developments and investment opportunities in their sectors, and then we will have a dedicated period for bilateral engagements – sector to sector, industry to industry and business to business as well,” the

Finance Minister disclosed.

The large Saudi delegation will be travelling to Guyana from the Dominican Republic where they had attended the recently concluded SaudiCaribbean Investment Forum.

Several Guyanese companies from the construction, oil and gas, manufacturing, and tourism sectors had participated in the event and showcased investment-ready projects to Saudi investors.

Last weekend, President Ali met with Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Member of the Council of Ministers of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir in Suriname and extended an invite to visit Guyana. The two officials had held preliminary discussions on a number of areas of cooperation including investment, energy, logistics, food security, climate and regional development.

TURN TO PAGE 7

NEWS

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SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Saturday, July 9 – 11:00h – 12:30h and Sunday, July 10 – 00:30h – 02:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, July 9 – 11:55h – 13:25h and Sunday, July 10 – 13:20h – 14:50h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

There will be thundery showers and light rain showers during the day and night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Westerly to West South-Westerly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 12:38h reaching a maximum height of 2.35 metres.

Low Tide: 06:06h and 18:30h reaching minimum heights of 0.79 metre and 0.87.

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Govt partners with Mount Sinai, Hess Corp to transform Guyana’s healthcare …to establish Centres of Excellence for heart, cancer …30% discount for Guyanese patients

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he Guyana Government will be collaborating with New York-based Mount Sinai Health System and Hess Corporation to transform Guyana’s healthcare into a world class service that will not only ensure accessibility and affordability for Guyanese citizens but also the Caribbean region.

To this end, an agreement between the three parties was signed on Friday morning at State House, where President Dr Irfaan Ali launched the National Health Care Initiative – a three component plan that focuses on enhancing the country’s primary healthcare services, improving patient care and management at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and developing specialised services in cardiology and oncology with the private sector.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony explained that Guyana will get two new Centres of Excellence that specialise in heart and cancer treatment as well as research to not only benefit Guyanese but the wider Caribbean.

“We are looking at a joint partnership between Government and the private sector to develop a Cardiovascular Centre of Excellence for Guyana and for the wider Caribbean.

Also, we are looking at developing an Oncology Centre of Excellence, again, for Caribbean. So today, the signing represents one of those pivotal moments for healthcare transformation in Guyana,” he stated.

In relation to strengthening primary healthcare services, the initiative will focus on preventing non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and cancers. It also encompasses the establishment of a health-informatics system.

“So, during this period, we’ll be working on developing not just the electronic medical record system but also using the data to do proper planning as we move the health system forward.

We envisage the day when someone would have a smart card and when they come to anyone of our facility… and when they put it into the system, you’ll be able to pull up that patient’s records – not just the history but all the imaging and medicines they’ve been using. So, it’s going to be a very integrated system,” he posited.

The other component of the healthcare plan will see all aspects of operations at the GPHC – the country’s main referral hospital – being reviewed and upgraded to international standards as it relates to clinical ex-

Permanent Secretary of the Health Ministry, Malcolm Watkins (far right), Mount Sinai Board Member John Hess, and Dr Jeremy Boal from Mount Sinai signing the agreement on Friday at State House

cellence, developing patient care relationships, improving turnaround time for testing and waiting time to see a doctor.

According to Minister Anthony, the Guyana Government is looking to tap into the vast expertise and technology of the Mount Sinai team to execute this initiative in order to build a world class healthcare system here.

Destination for healthcare services

In fact, President Ali posited that the goal is not just to enhance the healthcare system for citizens here but to also make Guyana a destination of choice for healthcare services globally. To do this, he noted that Mount Sinai was the best partner for Guyana in creating that world class national healthcare system.

“The goal is to position Guyana among the best if not the best, better than Mount Sinai in global health

services… We have to make use of this opportunity and I’m convinced that we have the best talent here too. We just have to bring that talent along and we can be as good as anyone else, and I believe in that,” he contended.

But critical to achieving this initiative, the Head of State pointed out, is technology, especially since Guyana is lagging far behind in the medical field. As such, he posited that Guyana will have to find a shortcut to keep abreast or come up to par with what is happening around the world in the healthcare sector.

“We can’t go in a straight line, train the people then get the people and then investment. We have to cut short. So, we have to bring the technology in and we have to bring the human resource in at the same time – cut the distance to getting there and to do that, we need to get into the people with the experience, the knowhow and with the technolo-

gy,” the President stated.

On this note, the Head of State underscored the importance of the local private sector stepping up in order to achieve this goal. He explained that the healthcare private sector has an important and integral role to play in this process.

“The private sector has a brilliant opportunity here and this is not only about health service provision. It has continuous value chain; you have therapeutic, you have research capability at the University of Guyana, you have therapy – a whole line of value-added that will come along with this,” he stressed.

To take the National Health Care Initiative forward, a Coordinating Steering Committee will be established with President Ali, Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer of Mount Sinai, Dr Jeremy Boal; and Mount Sinai Board Member John Hess. TURN TO PAGE 10

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SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

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

Festival of Sacrifice

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sma’il was born to Prophet Ibrahim in his old age and to Hajra (Hagar). Eid-ul-Adha celebrates Father Ibrahim’s absolute faith in God. His devotion and faith resonate in the existence of man as a temporary life, and acceptance that God is the preserver of the substance of man. Ibrahim (AS) had been a devoted servant of the Lord even though his wife Sarah couldn’t bear a child for most of their lifetime, yet his patience and contentment with his Creator never faded. After decades of faithful service to Allah (SWT), he finally became a father, and named his son Isma’il (AS).

God’s command to Ibrahim to sacrifice his beloved son was not questioned by either of them, and their faith in their Lord and their submission to his command was rewarded, because God intervened through his angel Jibra’il (Gabriel) and informed Ibrahim that his sacrifice had already been accepted. God stayed Ibrahim’s hand at the last moment and ordered him to slaughter a ram that was caught in some bushes nearby instead. This was a clear message to humanity that sacrificing humans is strictly prohibited, and was the genesis of Qurbani and Eid-ul-Adha – the Festival of Sacrifice.

Qurbani means sacrifice. Every year, Eid-ul-Adha is celebrated by Muslims around the world by slaughtering an animal – a goat, sheep, cow or camel – to reflect Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Isma’il at God’s command, and to commemorate a testament of God’s mercy to the faithful.

Traditionally, one-third of the meat from the animal must go to poor or vulnerable people; one-third for neighbours, associates and friends, and one-third for family.

According to Islam Now: “Eid-ul-Adha is the latter of the two Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide each year, with the other being Eid-ul-Fitr, which comes after the auspicious month of Ramadan (Eid-ul-Fitr – small Eid) and the second during Qurbani (Eid-ul-Adha – big Eid). The second of these two Eids represents the most sacred time of the year for Muslims, as it marks the Hajj pilgrimage.

“Hajj is a religious duty that should be carried out by all able Muslims at least once during their lifetime. Millions of Muslims travel to Mecca every year for Hajj, retracing the steps of Ibrahim (AS) as he left his wife Hajra and his son Isma’il in the desert of ancient Mecca by the command of Allah (SWT).

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) later established Hajj as an annual pilgrimage.

“The Hajj pilgrimage is regarded as an honour for Muslims, with all those who complete it allowed to adopt the title of Hajji (men) or Hajjah (women) for life. Those who feature such titles in Islamic culture are thought to hold more wisdom, thus earning greater respect from their peers.

“The first pilgrimage, called Hijrah, was the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) migration from Mecca to Medina, then called Yathrib, and this is when the tradition as we know it today came into fruition. Hajj, which takes place over three days, runs into Eid-ul-Adha (Qurbani), and thus Muslims on the pilgrimage carry out the traditional sacrifice of livestock as per the Quran’s ruling.”

A prominent Guyanese Muslim elucidated that once the Eid prayers and sermon are over, the Qurbani sacrifice may begin, and the meat of the sacrificed animal is shared three ways (one for the person making the sacrifice, another for friends and family, and one for the poor and needy). Following this, Muslims come together to celebrate the Festival of Sacrifice, which sees the exchanging of gifts and greetings.

Islam, according to Quranic texts, means to achieve peace – peace with God, peace within oneself, and peace with the creations of God – through wholly submitting oneself to God and accepting His guidance. The term Islam derives from the three-letter Arabic root, S (‫)س‬- L (‫)ل‬- M (‫ )م‬which generates words with interrelated meanings, including “surrender” and “submission”. This correlates with Prophet Ibrahim’s acceptance of God’s will.

Eid-ul-Adha greetings to all our readers, the Guyanese people, and the global community from the management and staff of Times Media Group.

President Dr Irfaan Ali met with overseas-based Guyanese Tiffany Johnson at State House on Friday. Johnson, who was born in Linden, Region 10, is the creator of Amazon’s US$150m Black Business Accelerator, Head of Underrepresented Founder Startups at Amazon Web Services (AWS) Activate, and an Entrepreneur of Built to Launch. Johnson, who has returned to Guyana for the first time in 18 years, has lauded President Ali’s vision of ‘One Guyana’, and has said that it reverberates with her and has her full support (OP photo)

The barking guns of Jamaican music

By Rohan Budhai

“I

shot the sheriff, but I didn't shoot the deputy…Every time I plant a seed, he said kill it before it grows."

(Bob Marley and The Wailers, 1973) The first time I heard this song on the radio, I was horrified. I found it unbelievable that such a song, glorifying the shooting of law enforcement officers, was being played on the radio. I wondered what message was being sent to our youth. I kept hearing the song on the radio frequently.

Finally, I concluded that our society had given up on emphasising appropriate behaviour.

I found out that the singer of the song was an Englishman named Eric Clapton, and I thought that for him to be singing a song like that was disgusting. What type of person would openly boast that he had shot a sheriff?

But why the sheriff, I wondered? Most Jamaican boys grew up watching American western movies in which the sheriff was always a hallowed personality who stood between good and evil.

Mind you, I had previously heard songs about killings — Stagger Lee, Who killed Billy, Delilah, and some western hits like El Paso and Big Iron — but never such a bold confession. The singer had shot a lawman, and was implicated in the death of another.

So one can imagine my amazement when word came that this audacious song had made number one on the American music charts. What was the world coming to? That the citizens of a righteous country like the USA could accept and support such a song disappointed me as a young teenager.

My early Catholic upbringing and later pro-Rastafarian leanings had taught me that peace and love would engender equal rights and justice. So, I had no thought of shooting anyone, especially someone sworn to serve and protect.

I hoped the sheriff survived, and extended belated condolence to the deputy's family.

Sometime later, I heard the song's writer was none other than local hero Bob Marley. So, naturally, I immediately went out to buy the group's new album, titled Burning. I must say that my perception of the song changed immediately. I was proud to know that a piece that had made it to the top of the American music charts was composed by Jamaicans. I define this change of heart as the psychology of denial.

But what was Bob Marley thinking?

In one interview, Marley said he wanted to say, "I shot the Police". However, he realised this wouldn't work in Jamaica, so

he changed the victim to sheriff. Bob lived the Jamaican life, and was probably either a target or witnessed excessive Police or "Babylon" oppression. I was willing to try and work with that, although it still felt wrong to shoot a Policeman.

In another interview, Marley said that the sheriff represented wickedness.

We will never know Bob's true interpretation. However, “I Shot the Sheriff” was the first outright in-your-face gun song I experienced out of Jamaica. Bob Marley has had me on the back and front foot several times. I disagreed with his suggestion to bomb a church because he realised the preacher was lying (Talking Blues). I also was not comforted with the optics of his "burning and looting tonight" (Burning). However, I did agree with him that there would be "war" if the philosophy of one race being superior to another was not abolished (War). Also, I was "arm in arm with arms" (Zimbabwe) with him on the African liberation struggle.

Our parents initiated gun culture in Jamaica. In their ignorance, they presented young boys with gifts of toy guns at Christmas and birthdays. So, at a young age, we boys became gun-conscious.

Marley grew up in Trench Town, and would have come into contact with guns by default. He would also be a part of the rude boy generation who would attend Italianmade Spaghetti Westerns at theatres like Ambassador, Rialto, Majestic and Gaiety.

There, audiences would see movies like For A Few Dollars More, Django, and The Good, Bad and Ugly. They knew all the stars by name and sight, like Franco Nero, Lee Van Cleef and Clint Eastwood.

This socialisation had an effect on many of Jamaica's music personalities.

Jamaican artistes would adopt names like Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, Josey Wales, Bounty Killer, and Lone Ranger.

The gun culture invasion in our music extended to all forms of gun-related activities. Soon we would have a host of military personas like Admiral Bailey, Brigadier Jerry, and Lieutenant Stitchie, to name a few. The music was totally permeated with guns and its related theme of violence.

Recently, a 50th birthday party was held for world-famous Jamaican DJ Bounty Killer. Bounty Killer's birthday was extensive, with many important music dignitaries flying in from all over the world. Sadly, Bounty Killer does not have a US visa. Corporate Jamaica, especially international conglomerate Digicel, were major sponsors. "The Killa" was lauded as the face of dancehall. One artist, Spice, declared that without Bounty Killer there would be no dancehall.

I remember once asking a friend for

some Bounty Killer songs, and he gave me a CD with 20 songs. I only chose two of the 20 pieces. The other 18 were promoting straight-up gunplay. I was so disappointed. One of the two songs selected had a gun punchline which I decided to live with because of its popularity. In it, Bounty Killer threatened: "Anytime…mi hungry again, you a go see mi nine [9 millimetre pistol]; Government policy a undermine, Police and soldier a fight crime."

I wasn't comfortable with what he was saying, although I understood where he was coming from. It reminded me of Marley and the sheriff.

Well, Bounty Killer is now 50 years old, and has cleaned up his act. Age and family usually calm the rebel, and he has genuinely paid his musical dues. He is more mature and reasonable, which is good enough for me. I wish him the best, and encourage him to become a positive role model for the youth in the music industry.

However, an artist like Bounty Killer, known as The Warlord, Poor People Governor, and Ground Gad, has already poisoned the well. His gun lyrics have significantly influenced a parade of later artistes in the gunplay arena. So, should he get a free pass, or is he deserving of some stick? I think he deserves some stick. The horse has already bolted the paddock, and artistes like Bounty Killer must take some blame for leaving the gate open.

This musical fascination with guns has consumed so many artistes. Some musical exponents graduated into genuine gunhands.

The icing on the cake was the recent banning of Jamaican artiste Skeng from performing in Guyana. This was due to gun-related activities in and around a recent concert. This brought forth comments from the Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who lamented the state of the music and the international embarrassment of the incident. This gun-oriented music is a definite variable in Jamaican's invasive gun culture, as it has had a negative influence on our youth.

In the final analysis, our music is too violent, and its influence on our youth is larger than life.

However, something has to be done.

As I witness the demise of our great music, I am demanding action and reminding readers of an old Jamaican saying, "If you want good, you nose haffi run."

By the way, should Bob Marley get a free pass? Just asking. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer) (Rohan M Budhai is a tax consultant, writer, and history enthusiast)

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messages

SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

EID-UL-ADHA

Eid-ul-Adha exemplifies – FESTIVAL OF SACRIFICE humane characteristics of generosity, morality, love - PPP

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id-ul-Adha is a major religious festival of Muslims, and is a spiritual institution meant to be observed with a perfect spiritual attitude.

“Eid-ul-Adha” means “the festival of sacrifice”, and is so named because of the sacrifice of animals

by Muslims on this day.

It is compulsory on every Muslim who possesses the means to sacrifice an animal such as a sheep or goat; seven persons can take shares in a cow or camel. The meat would then be divided into

ipate in these festivities.

Eid-ul-Adha is celebrated annually on the 10th day of the 12th month (Dhul Hijjah) of the lunar Islamic calendar. The festivities last for three days, and are one of the rituals of the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, in Saudi Arabia,

by Muslims worldwide.

The annual sacrifice in Islam is not an end in itself, but only a means towards an end. It is the external symbol of an internal dedication.

As an institution commemorative

is renewed every year. On this point, God Almighty, in the final revelations Chapter 22: Verses 36-37, said, “It is not the meat nor the blood that reaches God, it is your piety that reaches Him.” The animal sacrifice is an act of worship and an expression of gratitude.

As the Muslim nation invokes the tradition of Prophet Abraham (A.S.), the friend of Allah and leader of mankind, on the occasion of Eid-ul- Adha, let us be fully conscious of what it actually undertakes to do so. Those who make a sol-

three equal parts, to be distributed to others. The family eats one third, another third is given to other relatives and friends, and the final third is given to the poor as a gift.

Eid-ul-Adha is the latter of two Eid festivals celebrated by Muslims, and its basis comes from the Quran.

Like Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ulAdha begins with a short prayer, followed by a sermon (Khutbah) after sunrise. In addition, both festivals provide the means of festivity to those who cannot afford it; so that everyone, rich or poor, can partic-

of Abraham’s sacrifice, its function is not to propitiate, but is creative, creative of an avenue through which divine light enters to strengthen us in the ideal of sacrifice.

Prophet Abraham (A.S.) virtually sacrificed his beloved son Ishmael to seek the pleasure of God, and his act forms a landmark in the history of religion. We commemorate this great act on the day of Eid-ul-Adha, and we affiliate ourselves spiritually with it by performing animal sacrifice.

This spiritual affiliation signifies dedication to the ideal sacrifice in life, which

emn resolve to follow his footsteps should know that his path is strewn with a series of tests and trials that one with unflinching faith alone can face. A renewal of the supreme spirit that inspired Prophet Abraham to surrender all that was dearest to him is, as such, a reward in itself. The measure of success in this lofty mission depends upon the degree and depth of one’s commitment.

May Allah accept all our sacrifices in His cause, and grant us success in all our endeavours.

Ameen

Eid-ul-Adha provides opportunity to reflect on values of sacrifice, service, compassion – GAWU

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he GAWU is extending our warmest wishes to Muslims across our country and around the world who are celebrating Eid-ul-Adha.

This special holiday is a time to honour the sacrifice, resolve, and commitment to God demonstrated by Abraham. It would usually mark the end of the pilgrimage of Hajj, performed each year by millions of Muslims, who journey from all corners of the world to Mecca as a testament to their faith.

The observances of Eidul-Adha provide yet another opportunity to reflect on the values of sacrifice, service, compassion and charity, and for helping the less fortunate. Through

symbolic sacrifice, the history of Eid-ul-Adha teaches us the duty of respect and care for the next generation. It teaches us the duty of building a healthy family, a healthy society, and a functional nation state that guarantees us social justice and solidarity and welfare for our sons and daughters.

At we observe this im-

portant day on the Muslim calendar, GAWU urges that we spare a thought for the less fortunate in society. Today, as our country steadily expands and reaches new heights, we should recognise there are those among us who need our assistance and a helping hand. Indeed, they are our brothers and sisters, and we should seek to ensure that we all rise together, and no one is left behind. Indeed, for us, this remains one of the most enduring messages of the Eid-ul-Adha observances.

GAWU urges that this Eid-ul-Adha be an occasion of sharing love and blessing with friends and family.

Eid-ul-Adha Mubarak to all Guyanese!

T

he People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend greetings and best wishes to the Muslim communities here in Guyana and in the Diaspora on the sacred occasion of Eid-ul-Adha Eid-ul-Adha reminds us of unbridled humility and the willingness to selflessly make sacrifices in obedience to God. Its message is seen as pertinent to the spiritual upliftment of all mankind, which redounds in peace and togetherness.

It comes during the annual Holy Pilgrimage to Mecca,

T he Hajj -- a journey that embodies sacrifices in the quest to fulfill religious obligations, and which is demonstrative of the teachings of equality.

Its observance continues to exemplify humane characteristics of generosity, morality, and love for others, especially the less fortunate. In a multi-religious society like Guyana, these attributes have prov-

en their value, not only in catalysing and streng thening bonds among our people, but also in forging a better understanding and appreciation of our cultures.

As our Muslim brothers and sisters celebrate in traditional ways, the party urges reflection on the pertinent messages of the occasion and the many sacrifices Guyanese have made over time for self- advancement and nation-building with the common objective of a better life and future for all.

Once again, the PPP extends best wishes for the occasion. Eid Mubarak!

EID-UL-ADHA a symbolic Islamic principle for all humanity – ERC

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he Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends warmest EID-UL-ADHA greetings to Muslims and all Guyanese on this annual observance.

The national holiday, which translates as the ‘festival of sacrifice’, is a symbolic Islamic principle for all humanity: obedience to God, and the message associated with sacrifice.

The ERC urges all to heed the universal message of EID-UL-ADHA for a better Guyana – render support to each other, especially in situations of need.

Sharing, during this holiday, to the less fortunate, neighbours and friends, is commendable and in recognition of the brotherhood existing among Guyanese.

The observance remains a beacon of inspiration, guidance, and motivation for all of us to build and promote national harmony. The lessons of sacrifice and humility must inspire us all as Guyanese.

Moreover, the Commission supports the thrust of this countrywide observance, which strengthens ties with other ethnic groups in our multi-cultural society.

The ERC is positive that our status as ‘One People’ is given deeper meaning during EID-UL-ADHA celebrations every year.

The national holiday represents another veritable example of the peaceful co-existence all Guyanese

enjoy, and the religious freedoms that are allowed. The ERC reiterates, on this holiday, that Guyanese of all ethnicities can draw important messages and principles from each other’s observances on the cultural calendar.

Eid Mubarak from the Ethnic Relations Commission!

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SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

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Foundation ◄

Adding and Subtracting Whole Numbers

A whole number is a number that does not include any fractions or decimals. To add or subtract whole numbers, follow the steps show below.

ADDING

To add a group of whole numbers, line them up by place value. Add each place value separately, starting on the right. If the numbers in a column add up to a 2-digit number, “carry” the first digit over to the next column on the left. Look at the following example.

M

ost robots are specifically designed to do a particular task, often one that would be tiresome or dangerous for humans. Creating art usually isn’t tiresome or dangerous, but it is interesting to compare your own artwork to art created by a rubber band-powered contraption designed to move across paper and create abstract art! You’ll need:

Supplies

Remember

When you are adding, don’t worry about how many numbers you start with – Or how large they are. Line up the numbers by place value.

Then work on one place-value column at a time. Use “carrying” whenever, a column adds up to a number greater than 9.

SUBTRACTING

To subtract one whole number from another, line up the numbers by place value.

Subtract each number separately beginning from the right. In the example below, how do you subtract 9 ones from 8 ones? The answer is by “regrouping”. You reach into the tens column of 548 and take 1 ten. You regroup that 1 ten with the 8 in the ones column to make 18. Then subtract 9. But remember that there are now only 3 tens in the tens column of 548, not 4. Now subtract the numbers in the tens column. Finally, subtract the numbers in the hundreds column. In this example, the answer is 219.

• Corrugated cardboard • Pencil and different coloured markers • Rubber bands • Hard, white, mint candies with a hole in the middle (or other items that work as wheels) • Other items to test: old compact discs, washers, sticky foam, skewers, LEGO blocks, etc.

• Blank paper and an abstract drawing • Toilet paper tubes • Ruler, scissors, tape • Plastic drinking straws • Coins (or other items to use as weights)

Directions 1. Fold a 6-inch square of cardboard into thirds so it looks like a trough. This is the body.

2. Cut two 4-inch squares of cardboard and on each, draw an “X” from corner to corner. Then measure and mark ½ inch to the right and left of each line.

Connect these marks so that your “X” is now 1 inch wide. Cut out the 4 smallest triangles created by your “X” and make a hole in the very center of each “X.” 3. On the body, poke one hole close to the end of each folded side. Make sure the holes are directly across from each other and are big enough for a pencil axel to spin freely.

4. Put a pencil through the body and attach the “X” wheels on each end with tape.

5. On the other end of the body,

tape the straw under the back end. Slip a candy onto each end of the straw and bend and tape the straw ends to stop the candies from coming off.

6. Loop two rubber bands together and then loop one end around the pencil axle. Cut two small slits into the back end of the body and slide the free end of the rubber bands into the notch.

7. Mount the toilet paper tube across the back end of the body, taping it to the sides.

8. Take the thin marker and attach it to the centre of the toilet paper tube so that it drags behind the body like a tail. It needs to drag in order to draw.

9. Put a large sheet of paper on the floor and uncap the marker. With the device on the paper, wind the rubber band by turning the pencil axle. The more you wind, the more energy the rubber band stores and propels your bot. Let go and see what it draws! How does it compare to what you have drawn?

10. Change or add more markers, try other wheel types, use more or fewer rubber bands or experiment with other materials. If you have access to a small motor, you can also make a vibrobot that makes art: www. wired.com/geekdad/2012/05/ff_ artbot. (startwithabook.org)

By the Brothers Grimm Exercises

CONTINUED FROM FRIDAY

Everything went right for a week or two, and then Dame Ilsabill said, "Husband, there is not nearly room enough for us in this cottage; the courtyard and the garden are a great deal too small. I should like to have a large stone castle to live in. Go to the fish again and tell him to give us a castle."

"Wife," said the fisherman, "I don’t like to go to him again, for perhaps he will be angry; we ought to be easy with this pretty cottage to live in."

"Nonsense!" Said the wife. "He will do it very willingly, I know. Go along and try!"

The fisherman went, but his heart was very heavy: and when he came to the sea, it looked blue and gloomy, though it was very calm. He went close

to the edge of the waves, and said, "O man of the sea!

Hearken to me!

My wife Ilsabill Will have her own will, And hath sent me to beg a gift of thee!"

"Well, what does she want now?" said the fish.

"Ah!" Said the man, dolefully. "My wife wants to live in a stone castle."

"Go home then," said the fish, "she is standing at the gate of it already." So away went the fisherman, and found his wife standing before the gate of a great castle. "See," said she, "is not this grand?" With that they went into the castle together, and found a great many servants there, and the rooms all richly furnished, and full of golden chairs and tables. Behind the castle was a garden, and around it was a park half a mile long, full of sheep, goats, hares, and deer; and in the courtyard were stables and cow houses.

"Well," said the man, "now we will live cheerful and happy in this beautiful castle for the rest of our lives."

"Perhaps we may," said the wife, "but let us sleep upon it, before we make up our minds to that." So they went to bed.

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

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“Let us collectively lock arms to keep out vices of hatred, bitterness and prejudice” – Pres Ali …as Opposition calls for Guyanese to recommit to ideals of unity, selflessness

President Dr Irfaan Ali

I

n observance of the festive occasion of Eid-ulAdha today, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has reiterated calls for all Guyanese to get together and work to rid the country of vices such as hatred and prejudice.

He made this plea in his Eid-ul-Adha greeting to citizens, especially the Muslim community in Guyana.

President Ali pointed out that Eid-ul-Adha, or the Festival of the Sacrifice, is a time when Muslims affirm their devotion to Allah. He added that it is an occasion to do so by demonstrating their sincere concern for their fellow brothers and sisters.

“Qurbani is not simply an act of sacrifice, but one intended to show our devotion to Allah, a letting go of attachments and embracing our fellow brothers and sisters,” he has said.

“In our society today, there are forces who wish to divide our people as a means of derailing the unity of our human family. Let us collectively lock our arms together to form an impregnable chain to keep out the vices of hatred, bitterness and prejudice!” he posited.

The Head of State remind-

ed that the Holy Quran urges worshippers to “Hold fast together to the cable of Allah and be not divided.”

According to the President, the sacred observance of Eidul-Adha recalls the Prophet Abraham’s deep love for his son, a love so true and pure that it could only be tested by the Prophet’s supreme obedience to God. Abraham’s love for his son is emblematic of Allah’s love for all of His creation.

Abraham’s willingness to submit to the will of Allah represents the ultimate measure of spiritual devotion. He further stated that the Prophet Abraham’s readiness to offer his son as a sacrifice thus links our loyalty to God to our love for our fellow human beings, reminding again that the Holy Quran urges us to imitate the example of Abraham.

It says: “And who is better in faith than those who (faithfully) submit themselves to Allah, do good, and follow the Way of Abraham the upright?”

According to the Head of State, Muslims cannot love Allah and at the same time attack their fellow brothers and sisters. They, he added, cannot love Allah and condone or ignore an injustice towards another. In fact, President Ali stated, Muslims show their devotion to Allah by protecting and taking care of Allah’s creation – the human family.

“May this most beautiful festival of Eid-ul-Adha inspire us to grow stronger in love and togetherness, secure in the knowledge that, by serving each other, we are genuflecting to the Will of the Almighty! Eid Mubarak to one and all!”

Respectful

Meanwhile, the APNU/

80-member Saudi delegation...

FROM PAGE 2

These and other topics will be up for discussions when the visiting delegation arrives here today.

In recent years, there has been mounting interest from oil-rich Middle Eastern nations in strengthening ties with Guyana, a new oil producer.

Only in February, Prince Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir was in Guyana to advance bilateral relations. Days prior, President Ali had held a meeting with another visiting team from Saudi Arabia at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown following the opening of the inaugural International Energy Conference and Expo, which was held in Georgetown.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, had joined the meeting virtually. The visiting delegation, which was here for the Energy Conference, was led by the Arab nation’s Governor of the Organisation of Petroleum

Exporting Countries (OPEC), Adeeb Al Aama.

The increasing interest in Guyana’s blooming oil and gas industry from Middle Eastern States was reflected in the fact that a Saudi Arabian company, Aramco Trading Limited, was awarded a one-year contract to lift Guyana’s share of oil from the Stabroek Block after coming out with the best responsive bid during evaluation last year.

The 12-month deal to market Guyana’s oil runs from September 2021 to August, 2022. Additionally, the company was also awarded a single-lift for last September to avoid the country having to forfeit its one million barrels of crude.

Moreover, Guyana and Saudi Arabia signed an Air Services Agreement in May to promote and facilitate the expansion of international air services opportunities between the two countries. (G8)

to sacrifice his son to please Allah.

“The significance is to sacrifice what comes between us and Allah — whether it be ego, material possessions, passion, or power — and to resolve to fully obey Him. These teachings hold great significance in giving moral and spiritual directions to our personal life,” the APNU+AFC stated.

Value of sacrifice

Prime Minister Brig (ret’d) Mark Phillips

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton

AFC Coalition, in its Eid-ulAdha greeting to the Muslim community, sounded similar calls.

“The APNU/AFC has always been, and will always remain, respectful of Guyana’s cultural and religious diversity, and believes that our diversity serves to the country’s advantage. May this occasion inspire all Guyanese to recommit to the ideals of unity, selflessness, shared sacrifices, and a shared destiny,” the Opposition said in a state-

ment.

It went on to note that Eid-ul-Adha, or the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is deeply rooted in the life of the great Prophet Abraham (upon whom be peace) and signifies his willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael, as ordered by Allah.

Noting that this is one of Islam’s most important holidays, the Coalition has posited that it is the duty on all Muslims to sacrifice animals on the occasion as a reminder of Abraham’s willingness

Also extending Eid-ulAdha greetings was Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips, who said this occasion is a celebration in honour of the selflessness and willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son upon God’s command.

“As these observations are honoured within the Islamic faith, Guyanese can all learn from the lessons that enshrine this occasion. Eid-ul-Adha teaches us the value of sacrifice. It invokes in us the opportunity to indulge in introspection about the importance of sacrifice and the selflessness that it requires. When we are able to place ourselves aside, we are able to see clearly the needs of others,” the PM has

said.

He went on to note that sacrifice allows contribution to the greater good, and enables persons to truly be good neighbours, as well as creates peace, harmony and love among people.

“On these occasions, I am always proud to emphasise the rich culture of our Guyanese citizens. Not only do our cultures allow us to celebrate with each other, but the strong faith of our people has helped to build this nation. It has evoked mutual respect, which ultimately feeds into a strong bond and unity among Guyanese,” the Prime Minister has said.

PM Phillips has also said he hopes the teachings of Eidul-Adha equally inspire and guide all citizens to strive towards greater unity as Government moves towards building a “One Guyana” with prosperity for all. He noted that by looking after and caring for neighbours and placing personal desires aside, citizens can collectively move towards building a nation wherein there is true prosperity and happiness, as preserved in the National Pledge. (G3)

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Running scared...

F

…of the PPP

rom where your Eyewitness sits (on a high perch, like those tennis umpires!!) it’s clear to him that much of the hysteria from the Opposition side is because they’re deathly scared of the PPP using the oil revenues to win over enough members of their constituency to make them irrelevant!! And the PPP’s clearly bent on achieving that goal – claiming that’s what democracy’s all about!! You get into Government on a programme and a manifesto that attract a majority of the voters, and by delivering the goods, (literally!) you expect to win new converts come the next elections!!

The PNC had their opportunity when they were voted in back in 2015, and if they were rational, they’d have done exactly what the PPP’s now doing. Now, you may say that they didn’t have oil revenues to spend and hand out goodies like Santa “PPP” Claus. True, but shouldn’t they at least have tried to keep the voters who’d put them in office? In our ethnically divided country, that meant holding on to the Indian Guyanese brought in by Nagamootoo and Ramjattan. But NO!! Granger just had to pi55 them off (and worse) by firing 7000 of their sugar worker cohorts!! Did he have a political death wish for the PNC??

Anyhow, the PNC and its troglodytes can jump high, or they can jump low, but they ain’t gonna change the PPP’s push to secure a majority to return them in the driver’s seat come 2024. Now, what can the PNC do about it? Right now, seems they figure they gotta undermine the PPP’s programme of delivering the good life. And they’ve decided to do this by invoking the race card. So, it doesn’t matter what the PPP does, African Guyanese are told they’ve been subjected to “racism” and “vindictiveness” and discrimination at every step of the way!! The PNC figures if they throw enough mud in the PPP’s direction, some of it gotta stick!!

And it will!! After years of being conditioned to hearing those accusations from both sides of the divide, most folks are pre-disposed to believing them: “Cognitive bias” and all that!! Like when the PM and seven Ministers visited Buxton and promised to fix up streets etc?? “Why were the streets of Buxton and other ‘Black’ villages allowed to deteriorate?” the PNC yelled. Well, apart from the fact that the PPP just got back into power after 5 years of PNC rule, and what they’d done back then, weren’t all village streets – including Indian Guyanese ones - also deteriorated? Were those pics of the streets of Tuschen any better than those of Buxton??

What’ll be gained by further polarising Guyana when votes from the “other side” are needed?? ...of compassion showed The Opposition troglodytes are kvetching (and worse) about Pres Ali extending compensation as compassion to those Indian Guyanese vendors at Mon Repos, who’d been robbed, beaten, “arsoned”, and terrorised by their “justice” marchers, who’d “come down like the wolf on the fold”, and did what wolves do!! Wonder what would’ve happened if these wolves weren’t imbued with the spirit of justice?

Rape of the Sabine Women?

Anyhow their attacks have taken two prongs – first: the identity of the victims; and secondly, the source of the funds. Racial strife, of course, is what motivates the first objection!! The President’s only helping his “own”!! That none of those presumably “not his own” have been violated isn’t mentioned!! Then they want to know if “due diligence” was undertaken before the funds were handed over.

That’s like asking that tests be conducted to ensure that a person raped in full view of the public was “actually” raped before help is rendered!!

What a bunch of wankers!! …of guns in Japan Out of all the 200 or so countries in the world, Japan is the last one your Eyewitness would’ve figured an ex-Prime Minister would be assassinated in by a gunman. But there it was, Shinzo Abe’s gone.

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

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

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10 NEWS

SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Father of 5 stabbed to death

A

46-year-old man of Bush Lot, Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), was on Friday afternoon stabbed to death by his neighbour.

Dead is Rameshwar Sydney, a cash crop farmer of Lot 232 Bush Lot village.

Reports are that Sydney returned home from his farm and was having lunch when the neighbour went over and asked the farmer to go over by him to ‘gyaff’ [have a conversation] and he went.

Dead: Rameshwar Sydney

An eyewitness said in a matter of minutes, Sydney ran out of the neighbour’s yard with a knife stuck in his neck. A security guard from the Bush Lot Secondary School, who was passing, saw Sydney collapse to the ground with blood pouring out of the wound.

The injured man’s wife was contacted and he was subsequently taken to the Port Mourant Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

According to the dead man’s brother – Ganish

Sidney – Rameshwar had just consumed lunch which their mother had prepared when his friend came and called him to have a drink.

“As usual, when he want to drink he does come and call me brother; not he alone, other body and thing.

So me brother decide to go with he. When he go [that] side me neighbour say he see me brother push the door and run out as de blood spilling from his neck like if a pipe running and he start to holla.”

According to the older

Sidney, when he arrived at the scene his brother was lying on the ground panting for breath.

He said his neighbour was very aggressive earlier in the day.

“Whole morning he dah a run dem boy with a lance saying that he want blood.

Now he end up taking me brother life… he is a deported, is a good while he in Guyana here. When the Police bring him out he say that is not he do it.”

According to the 47-yearold Sidney, the suspect and

Govt partners with Mount Sinai, Hess Corp...

Additionally, a National Steering Committee, comprising of the private sector and Government officials will also be set up to look into Guyana’s “skills divestment”, that is, to determine the local skillset and ascertain the deficit and skill filling.

Warning

To this end, President Ali sounded a warning for medical practitioners who are not serious in carrying out their jobs.

“This is where the hard decisions would be taken because it may require some very, very strong decisions in order to fill that differentiation gap… A lot of you

guys chose this path – medical science and to become great servants to humanity in the field of medicine. You either believe that is what you want to do or you don’t believe that that is what you want to do; there is no middle ground, sorry.”

“It’s simple as that, either you’re onboard or off board; either you want to do this for the rest of your life or you don’t want to do it.

And there are enough opportunities in other areas that we can look at branching off careers. But don’t stay in it if you don’t want to be in it. We’re not investing all of this resources and time and energy for nothing,” the Guyanese leader asserted.

his brother were involved in conversation prior to the incident and he heard both of them laughing.

He explained that he was eating at the time of the stabbing.

“We call the doctor and the doctor call the Police and tell we to put a cloth in the hole to stop the bleeding. Is just one stab but he pull the knife and make a big cut,” he explained.

Sydney was a father of five children. The suspect is in Police custody as investigations continue.

FROM PAGE 3

Strategic partnership

Meanwhile, Mount Sinai’s Dr Boal spoke of some of the areas this strategic partnership will focus on. Already, a team of over 40 leaders in oncology, cardiovascular medicine, endocrinology, primary preventative care, global health and health system operations has been assembled.

“While we acknowledge achieving the full healthcare transformation will take some time, we are hitting the ground running starting next week. Three days from [Friday], Mount Sinai Clinical Quality and Administrative leaders will arrive to engage with

Government officials and Private Sector stakeholders were among the gathering at State House for the launch of the National Health Care Initiative

their counterparts at the Georgetown Public Hospital to improve and enhance care and outcomes there.

And soon after, other clinical experts will return to Guyana to continue the planning for new Oncology and Cardiovascular Centres of Excellence as well as end to end diabetes screening and care,” he revealed.

This National Health Care Initiative is being funded jointly by the Government of Guyana and Hess Corporation, which has injected some US$32 million into the project.

Chief Executive Officer John Hess posited that access to affordable and high quality healthcare is central to the vision for long-term, shared prosperity for the people of Guyana.

“We are proud to be part of the strategic partnership with the Government of Guyana and the Mount Sinai Health System to bring a brighter and healthier future for every Guyanese citizen now and for generations to come,” he stated.

Hess Corporation is one of the co-ventures conducting oil operations in

the ExxonMobil-operated Stabroek Block Offshore Guyana.

On the other hand, it was also announced on Friday that in addition to receiving help from Mount Sinai through the agreement signed to transform the country’s healthcare system, the Guyana Government was also able to secure a facility for all Guyanese requiring specialised medical treatment to get a 30 per cent discount once the Health Ministry approves a referral to Mount Sinai. (G8)

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20 NEWS Unvaccinated Reg 7 resident succumbs to COVID SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…91 new positives reported

T

he coronavirus death toll has increased to 1259 following the death of an unvaccinated resident of Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) on Thursday.

According to the Health Ministry, the 55-year-old died while receiving medical attention at one of its facilities.

However, new statistics released by the Ministry showed that 91 new cases were detected within a 24-hour period. This now takes the confirmed cases to 68,020 since the virus was first reported back in March 2020.

Of the new cases, three were reported in Region One (Barima-Waini); nine in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam); five in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); 58 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); one in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice); six in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni); five in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and four in Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

In addition, there are four patients in the

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JULY 8 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

91

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

35

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

801

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

4

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

1

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

36,791

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

31,229

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

68,020

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

65,921

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

444,911

FULLY IMMUNISED

343,698

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2022 REGION 1

2612

REGION 2

2977

REGION 3

8473

REGION 4

33,819

REGION 5

2476

REGION 6

6562

REGION 7

2523

REGION 8

886

REGION 9

4089

REGION 10

3603

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE SAFE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Wear a face mask.

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

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

1259

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

Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 35 in institutional isolation, 801 in home isolation, and one in institutional quaran-

tine. Recovered cases have reached 65,921 with some 664,789 samples tested for the virus.

Latest vaccination figures show that more than 443,000 or 86.5 per cent of adults have taken the first

dose, while some 343,000 or 67 per cent are fully vaccinated.

For adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17, over 35,000 or 48 per cent of them have received their first dose, and of that amount, some 25,600 or 35.2 per cent are fully immunised.

In the 5 to 11 age group, over 4000 children are inoculated. Administration of the second shot is now due for some persons. Moreover, approximately 68,000 persons have returned for their booster shots thus far.

Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover completely, especially if they are vaccinated. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions like cardio-

vascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, or cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.

Anyone can get sick with COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die at any age. To prevent the disease from developing into a severe form, it is recommended that vaccines be taken, as well as follow-ups with booster shots.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 or needs any additional information, they are asked to contact the COVID-19 Hotline 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit www.health.gov.gy.

Global figures show that 550 million people have tested positive for the virus and 6.3 million have died.

In the Americas, more than 164 million confirmed cases have been reported with over 2.7 million deaths.

2 in custody for gunning down of market vendor

A

s investigations continue into the shooting death of 49-yearold Dexter Lynch, whose lifeless body was found at Self Help Square in East Ruimveldt, Georgetown with a single gunshot wound more than a month ago, the Police have arrested two persons.

Contacted on Thursday, relatives of the late Dexter Lynch explained that the Police have been in constant contact with them, thereby updating them on the murder investigations.

The lifeless body of Dexter Lynch, of Madewini, Linden-Soesdyke Highway, was found at Self Help Square in East Ruimveldt, Georgetown at about 03:05h on June 6, 2022, after ranks had reportedly received a report from an unknown caller about a body seen lying on the roadway.

Upon arrival at the scene several minutes later, Police officers had observed the body of the victim lying face down, clad in a pair of black pants, a multi-coloured shirt, a blue hooded sweater, and a toque on his head.

An initial examination of

Dead: Dexter Lynch

the body had revealed what had appeared to be a gunshot injury on the left side of his abdomen, and one .40 spent shell was recovered about six feet south of the body.

Also found next to the body was a haversack containing two bottles of alcoholic beverages, two bottles of cologne, two body sprays, two knives, and $18,860 in cash.

Police, working on several leads, have reportedly arrested two men, and they are being questioned by detectives.

NEWS

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SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

July 20 set for hearing of Opposition’s challenge to Top Cop’s appointment proceeded on pre-retirement leave.

Justified

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

C

hief Justice Roxane George, SC, on Friday, fixed July 20 to hear a case filed by Opposition Chief Whip Christopher Jones which challenges the constitutionality of President Dr Irfaan Ali’s appointment of Clifton Hicken as acting Commissioner of Police.

During a hearing on Friday, Justice George granted Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC – a respondent in the legal challenge – his request to file further evidence by way of an affidavit.

He has to file this as well as an affidavit on behalf of Hicken, the other respondent, on or before July 11.

But before Nandlall effects service of these documents on the applicant – Jones – he has to pay him $50,000 in costs. The Chief Justice granted an order for costs against Nandlall after he failed to file an Affidavit in Defence within two to four days before the matter’s scheduled hearing which was also set for Friday.

The Attorney General had filed a notice of application requesting an addi-

President Dr Irfaan Ali

tional five days to file his response. However, after examining the application, Justice George held that Nandlall advanced no valid reason for his failure to file the affidavit on time, and thus, made the costs order against him.

Jones’s lawyer, Roysdale Forde, SC, who had objected to Nandlall filing further evidence on the ground that they were not relevant to the case, has to file an affidavit in reply, if necessary, on or before July 13. The parties have to file their written submissions by July 18 and the hearing of the case has been deferred to July 20.

Challenge

Jones, in his Fixed Date Application (FDA), contended that Hicken’s appointment is “unreasonable, ultra vires the Constitution, Common Law and is illegal, null, void and of no legal effect.”

The appointment, Jones argued, violates Article 211 (1) and 211 (2) of the Constitution since there was no consultation between the President and the Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, as is required

Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken

and contemplated by the Constitution prior to the appointment.

As such, Jones is seeking an order quashing Hicken’s appointment, another order declaring that all actions taken by him while acting in the office of Police Commissioner are null and void and to be of no force and effect, and an order compelling him to produce his authority to exercise and or discharge the functions of the office an acting capacity or any capacity whatsoever.

Grounds for the application also arose out of the President’s decision to invoke the doctrine of necessity to make the appointment.

The Opposition parliamentarian wants the High Court to consider the legality of the President’s decision since it has immediate, longterm effects and serious consequences.

Hicken was appointed acting Commissioner of Police on March 30, after Deputy Commissioner Nigel Hoppie, who was also made to act in that very post following the retirement of substantive Police Commissioner Leslie James,

On the heels of criticism from the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) – the largest party on the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) coalition – Nandlall had defended Hicken’s appointment.

He had argued that with no Leader of the Opposition in place nor a Police Service Commission (PSC), there was no one for the Head of State to consult with before making this critical decision.

The Constitution mandates that “the Commissioner of Police and every Deputy Commissioner of Police shall be appointed by the President acting after meaningful consultation with the Leader of the Opposition and the Chairperson of the Police Service Commission after the Chairperson has consulted with the other members of the Commission”.

“It’s no fault of the Government or the President that there is no Opposition Leader. It’s no fault of the Government or the President that there is no Police Service Commission because the appointment of Police Service Commission comes through a process which, again, in-

Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George, SC

Opposition Chief Whip Christopher Jones

volves consultations with the Opposition Leader, and there is no Leader of the Opposition,” he had said.

The Attorney General had also noted that the President’s action was completely justified in going ahead with the appointment of a Top Cop in the absence of those he had to consult with since the Guyana Police Force (GPF) which maintains law and order, cannot be left headless.

“The President is completely justified in proceeding to put someone to perform the functions of the Commissioner of Police.

National security and public safety and the need for there to be an administrative head of the [GPF] would trump the need for proce-

dural regularity and the doctrine of necessity would justify a departure from what is required by the Constitution in this case, because there is an impossibility in securing constitutional compliance…”

“It cannot be the law that the process would grind to a halt or the country must go without a Commissioner of Police if a recalcitrant Opposition cannot get its house in order and appoint a Leader of the Opposition,” Nandlall had argued.

Since those with whom the President was supposed to consult were not available for consultation, his actions of going ahead with making the appointment would be justified under the doctrine of necessity, Nandlall had maintained.

22 NEWS

SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Fmr GDF on the run after stabbing girlfriend, her mother Duo abandon over 1kg ganja after being A stopped by Police former member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is now evading law enforcement authorities after stabbing his girlfriend and her mother at his home on the East Coast of Demerara (EBD) on Tuesday evening.

On the run is 26-year-old James Rodwell Cadogan, also known as “Roddie”, of Haslington, ECD. Injured are 23-year-old Zenida April, a GDF rank, and her mother Nevorn April.

Zenida April’s brother, Keyon April, reported that his mother rented a house in Paradise, ECD, where she lived with his sister, but she subsequently moved out, leaving his sister in the house, and Cadogan subsequently moved in.

He related that, prior to the stabbing, his sister and

from his mother detailing what had occurred, and a report was lodged with the Police. “(On) Tuesday, my mom call me and say let me come, she wants me to follow them to get Zenida things from up Paradise, because they have a little problem. So I went, and we left at about 9 o’clock [pm]. We stop at the Vigilance Police Station, and they (his mother and sister) went and made the reJames Rodwell Cadogan and his port. stabbing victim, Zenida April “They (Police) said they don’t have any Cadogan were having domestic issues, and on Monday patrol to go with us, so they last, during a row with his sis- tell we that we have to go (to) ter, Cadogan had threatened Enmore Police Station. At to stab her, thus resulting in Enmore Police Station, they her going to the home where told us they don’t have any patrol, so we decided to go her mother lives.

He further related that on alone. This is around 11:00 in the day following that inci- the night,” he detailed.

He added that, as they dent, he received a phone call

reached the house, the suspect was in one of the bedrooms. “As soon as my mother and sister went into the room, he locked the door from inside… I hear my mother screaming, so I jump through the window, and he ran out of the house and run into some bushes… I call 911 and told them what happened. My mom and sister were rushed to the hospital, and I stayed up and searched for him, but could not find him,” he explained.

Keyon April related that his sister was stabbed to her chest, neck, arms and back, while his mother was stabbed once to her shoulder. He said his mother was treated and sent away, but his sister remains hospitalised in a serious condition.

Keyon April has said that he went back to the Police Station the following day, and was told by the ranks that they have the situation under control; however, the suspect remains at large. He is therefore hoping that the suspect is arrested soon, since family members are living in fear that he might turn up to harm them.

The ganja that was left behind by the men

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wo men on a motorcycle who were intercepted by Police along Yarrowkabra, LindenSoesdyke Highway, made good their escape while abandoning over one kilogram of ganja.

Police stated that ranks attached to the Timehri Police Station were on mobile patrol duty on Wednesday at about 20:35h when they observed two males on a motorcycle, with the pillion rider carrying a black bulky haversack on his back.

The ranks, however, sig-

nalled the men to stop to which they complied, and as the ranks were about to exit their vehicle, the pillion rider dropped the haversack and both men then ran into the nearby bushes on the side of the roadway.

The haversack, when collected and searched, revealed two large transparent bags containing cannabis.

The cannabis was taken to the Timehri Police Station where it was weighed, and amounted to 1205 grams. The Police are on the hunt for the two identifiable males.

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SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“I wish you well” – Judge tells man after sentencing him to life for killing pensioner Coast Demerara (ECD).

He found his father’s body facing the wall in a sitting position in a pool of blood. An undisclosed amount of cash was missing from the home.

It was reported that following the discovery of the pensioner’s body, footprints were seen in the mud at the back of his yard, leading to an alleyway. Along with the footprints, drops of blood were spotted, and they led to a shack located a short distance from the slain man’s house.

Jailed: Sherwin Clarke, called “Hot Skull”

“I

wish you well!”, said Demerara High Court Judge Sandil Kissoon to a 34-year-old man, whom he sentenced to life imprisonment for killing a pensioner during a home invasion in 2016.

Sherwin Clarke aka “Hot Skull”, who had initially denied murdering David Ramkissoon, 76, opted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter midway through his trial.

Ramkissoon called “Dillip” was found dead with his throat slit on August 21, 2016, by his son, Anand Ramkissoon who, along with his wife and two children, also lived with the now dead man at Mon Repos, East

I’m lost

Meanwhile, during Friday’s sentencing hearing, the dead man’s son, shared, “I’m almost lost. I have no urge to do work when I’m at home because I’m always having memories of my father…”

Anand’s wife said that she is still traumatised and hurt because she was the one who found her father-inlaw lying in a pool of blood.

“I would cry for him because I miss him so much,” she said as she described the deceased as a cheerful, caring, and extremely loving man.

According to her, her family lives in fear because they are afraid that people might break into their home again.

Killed: David Ramkissoon

Sorry for your loss

When asked by the Judge if he had anything to say before the court passed its sentence, Clarke said, “I’m asking the court, the deceased family… I am telling you sincerely from my heart that I am sorry for your loss.”

“Please forgive me and I am asking the court to be very lenient with me…so I could get another chance in society to go and show my son and daughter a father’s role…” he added.

Severe penalty

For his part, Justice Kissoon admonished Clarke for his criminal act which, according to him, resulted

in the death of a vulnerable man. The Judge said that the now dead man suffered from cerebral palsy—a condition that affected his ability to move and maintain balance.

The High Court Judge pointed out that Clarke and his accomplices broke into the man’s home with the sole intent to rob the occupants without any attempts to conceal their identity as the crime was committed around noon on the day in question.

Because there was no evidence that Ramkissoon resisted or hampered the men’s escape, the Judge said he believes the men killed him to conceal their identity since they lived in close proximity to the elderly man, whom he described as someone of “modest means”.

Progressively worse

Despite Clarke’s claim that he did not want to be a part of the home invasion, Justice Kissoon pointed out that the evidence shows that he did not try to save the elderly man or raise an alarm.

Instead, he was pres-

Jailed: Godfrey “Chucky”

Gill,

aka

ent, aiding and abetting and thereafter received the proceeds of the crime, added the Justice. The court heard that the killer previously served a three-year jail sentence for simple larceny and another three years at the New Opportunity Corp for wandering.

In light of this, the Judge said that the gravity of the crimes committed by Clarke has gotten “progressively worse”. Given the prevalence of this offence, the rule

of law, the Judge noted, warrants a severe penalty to deter others from committing such brutal crimes.

“Citizens and members of society must be safe in the presence of his home.

The conduct of the [Clarke] and his accomplices have no place in a modern society…” he lamented.

In the end, the Judge imposed a life sentence on Clarke, ordering further, that he only becomes eligible for being parole after serving 20 years.

The prison has to make deductions for the time he spent on remand awaiting trial. Attorneys-at-Law Muntaz Ali and Damien Da Silva appeared on behalf of the prosecution and defence, respectively.

In April, another man, 29-year-old Godfrey Gill called “Chucky”, who also confessed to killing Ramkissoon, was sentenced to 11 years’ imprisonment.

Gill, who was initially indicted for the capital offence of murder, also opted to plead guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter.

24 NEWS

SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“You are not to fabricate and concoct” evidence – AG to new Police Prosecutors …says Govt working to strengthen State’s investigative, forensic capacities

The Police ranks who completed the internationally recognised prosecutorial course sharing a photo with Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards; Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, and Assistant Police Commissioner Calvin Brutus, along with other senior members of the GPF

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ttorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, has cautioned 27 Police ranks and two officers from the Government AnalystFood & Drug Department, who recently graduated from the first-ever Elementary Prosecutors’ Course, against prioritising securing convictions over advancing justice and ensuring fair trials.

He issued the caution while delivering the feature address at a graduation cer-

emony held for the ranks at Nations University’s campus.

The rigorous six-month course, a collaborative effort between the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and Nations University, was attended by persons holding various ranks, from Assistant Superintendent to Constable. It is aimed at equipping ranks with the necessary procedural and substantive laws related to

criminal prosecutions. The purpose and objective of this training is to improve the efficiency of Police ranks in executing their prosecutorial duties.

Emphasising that justice is not a one-way street, Legal Affairs Minister Nandlall said, “Sometimes we feel that only the accused have rights, or only the defendant has rights; that is not true, that is not the law.” According to him, the State and victims of

Cop to face Judge, jury for Orin Boston’s death

Charged Policeman Sherwin Peters

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olice Constable Sherwin Peters, who is attached to the SWAT Unit within the Guyana Police Force (GPF), has been committed to stand trial for manslaughter over the September 2021 killing of Dartmouth, Essequibo, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) businessman, Orin Boston.

The 32-year-old Joint Services rank was granted $1 million bail at his initial court appearance before Magistrate Esther Sam at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court.

Peters, of Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice), was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which alleged that on September 15, 2021, he unlawfully killed Boston.

At the end of a Preliminary Inquiry (PI) on Thursday, Magistrate Sam

ruled that the prosecution was able to establish a prima facie case against Peters to put him on trial for the offence.

Accordingly, she committed him to stand trial at the next practicable sitting of the Essequibo Criminal Assizes.

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) had received advice from the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to charge Peters with the lesser offence.

From the outset, the GPF had refuted assertions that Boston’s death was an act of murder.

Boston, 29, of Hoppy Street, Dartmouth, Essequibo Coast, was shot during a Police search of his home in the wee hours of the morning of September 15, 2021.

He was reportedly shot with a .223 calibre rifle, which is the standard weapon issued to the SWAT team.

Following the incident, then Police Commissioner Nigel Hoppie had instructed the Force’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) to conduct a thorough investigation.

After the probe was completed, the file was sent to the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) to be reviewed, and thereafter to the DPP’s Chambers.

Hoppie and Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum had visited Boston’s family and promised to leave no stone unturned in the probe.

Meanwhile, Home Affairs

crimes also have an interest in every case.

“The public has an interest in every case. And those interests must be balanced, before there can be justice in accordance with the law. As prosecutors, you are ministers of justice. You are not to be concerned about winning, your job is to present the evidence available… [If] you don’t have the evidence, then you don’t have the ability; you are not to fabricate and concoct. You have a serious responsibility as a minister of justice,” the senior counsel advised the graduates.

As Summary Court Prosecutors, the Policemen and women will be assigned to prosecute matters at the various Magistrates’ Courts where most of criminal cases are disposed of. In congratulating the graduates on their remarkable achievement, the Attorney General told them that they have chosen a “sound beginning”, because they have decided to become part of their country’s legal system — the machinery which administers and enforces the rule of law.

Against this backdrop, he reminded them that the rule of law is the foundation upon which modern society rests, and it is vital to the economic, social, commercial, transformational and other changes taking place in Guyana.

“But none of it is possible, and will be possible, unless we have law and order prevailing in this society, unless the rule of law is respected, and unless we have a legal system that delivers justice

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, as he delivered remarks at the graduation ceremony

to our people in accordance with law.”

Strengthen

He assured the law enforcement officers that the Government is working to improve the State’s investigative and forensic capacities by securing personnel in the areas of crime scene investigation, ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting expertise, and other forensic facts.

These, he noted, are just a fraction of what is planned to strengthen the country’s investigative capacity.

According to the Senior Counsel, one has to presume that the Police and legal institutions are acting upon evidence based on legal principles. He therefore pointed out that “we must allow the systems to work. That is what justice is. Justice is not dependent upon one’s opinion.”

He has, accordingly, encouraged the Police ranks to discharge their duties in a manner that would make the public confident that the justice system would protect their rights.

While the Government desires to have a lawyer prosecute cases in the lower courts, Nandlall admitted, this ideal is far from reality; so, in the meanwhile, initiatives like this will be used.

He, nevertheless, said the programme offered through Nations University is “far more superior” to the prosecutors’ training programme run by the Police Force.

The programme is internationally recognised, as the course content, assessment, and grading process were vetted by ABMA Education — an awarding organisation in the United Kingdom offering QFQUAL Regulated and professional qualification in the UK and internationally.

It is being accepted by the University of London (UoL) as an entry requirement into its Bachelor of Laws programme, which is being offered by Nations University.

Last October, the Police Force and Nations University signed the firstof-its-kind Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to undertake prosecutorial training for Police ranks.

Man, 50, gets 18 years for murdering Leguan labourer Dead: Orin Boston

Minister Robeson Benn had also visited the grieving family, during which he expressed disappointment at the tragic incident.

He had assured the family that the Government was committed to having an impartial investigation done.

“Police killing should never occur, only in extreme circumstances, where a Police life is in danger, or in a bid to save civilian lives. Our method should only occur as a process of lawful approaches,” the Home Affairs Minister had expressed.

When word of Boston’s death spread in his community, angry friends, relatives, and villagers took to the streets to vent their disapproval. They hauled fallen trees, old tyres, and derelict cars to the middle of the main access road and began their fiery protest which lasted for several days. (G1)

Convicted killer Phillip Jhagroo, aka “Tanky”

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lmost two weeks after an Essequibo High Court jury had found 50-year-old Phillip Jhagroo, called “Tanky”, guilty of murdering 22-yearold labourer Mark Narine, called “Marko”, he was on Wednesday jailed for 18 years for the crime.

The custodial sentence has been imposed by Justice Brassington Reynolds, who has ordered that Jhagroo, who had been on remand since 2019, be given full

credit for the time he had spent in pre-trial detention.

Jhagroo, called “Tanky”, has been convicted of killing Mark Narine, called “Marko”, a resident of Leguan, Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), between March 30 and 31, 2019.

Represented by Attorneyat-Law Latchmie Rahamat, Jhagroo has protested his innocence; and when asked

by Justice Reynolds if he had anything to say before the court passed sentence on him, Jhagroo said, “I’m innocent! I was set up and framed! I don’t how the jury is not seeing this! I was framed and put in jail by the Police! I’m innocent; I did not kill nobody. God knows the truth!”

Senior State Counsel Tiffini Lyken had appeared for the prosecution.

According to reports, Narine was on his way home when he was lashed off his motorcycle by Jhagroo, and then thrown overboard at School Dam, Richmond Hill, Leguan. Narine’s lifeless body was pulled from a trench the following day.

A post-mortem exam-

Murdered: Mark Narine, aka “Marko”

ination had given Narine’s cause of death as drowning, but had also revealed blunt trauma to his face and hands which are consistent with a severe beating.

While on remand for Narine’s murder, Jhagroo, along with three other prisoners, had escaped from the Lusignan Prison in 2020. He was recaptured in March 2021, after being caught stealing a chicken from a farm in Ruby, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

NEWS

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SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

AmCham calls on young entrepreneurs Guyana receives 40,800 Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for $1M Shark Tank pitch from South Korea T …slowed 5-11 age group uptake needs to improve – Health Minister

Moderna vaccines received from South Korea

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he Government of South Korea has delivered 40,800 doses of Moderna COVID-19 vaccines to Guyana, which will be utilised to continue the Health Ministry’s robust immunisation campaign.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony on Friday received the shots in an official handing over ceremony at the Central Supplies Unit, Kingston.

“We will use these vaccines as part of our vaccination programme. They are all adult doses. We will be able to use it to give primary first and second doses, but we can also use it for booster doses. Right now, we’re giving boosters to anyone who is 12 years and older. So, these vaccines can be used,” Dr Anthony told media operatives.

Through the COVAX mechanism, the Ministry also received a quantity of other vaccines.

Earlier this month, United States Ambassador, Sarah-Ann Lynch announced that her Government is committed to deliver as many Pfizer vaccines that Guyana needs to vaccinate the population.

This pledge included shots for the paediatric, adolescent and adult categories, as well as booster shots.

When asked about this quantity, the Health Minister shared that it depends on the uptake and other factors.

“It depends on how fast people are taking vaccines.

We have a projection. We have communicated that projection to the US. Over the next couple of months, we have a schedule of how much vaccines will be coming in different months.

Obviously, these numbers would change depending on usage.”

The health official contended that Guyana has made significant progress in its adult vaccination campaign. However, people are still complacent in returning to be boosted.

“While they have gotten first and second doses, they are not coming back for their booster doses. With the Omicron variant that is circulating, if you’re not boosted after every six months or so, then your immunity would wean and you can

become more vulnerable to COVID infections. The better thing is to be boosted,” Dr Anthony asserted.

The recently-launched five to 11 vaccine campaign, using specially formulated jabs, has been slowed.

“We’re not seeing the type of uptake that we were expecting.”

Since vaccines have been approved, the US Government has made tangible donations of COVID-19 vaccines to the Health Ministry, which have been used to immunise Guyanese.

Last year, the US Government contribut-

ed 146,250 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines to Guyana, which signalled a turning point in the country’s vaccination campaign.

The jabs were then introduced to children aged 12 and above.

At that time 56,000 students enrolled in secondary schools across Guyana and anyone in the age category was eligible for the vaccine. Some from the primary level, TVET, Cyril Potter College of Education and University of Guyana were included in the radar.

With the US FDA recently granting approval for use of vaccines for children between six months and four years of age, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony had positioned that Government would want to source the jabs. However, there are challenges but Government has initiated a process through its channels to bring the shots here.

Generally, it would take some months to access the jabs.

he American Chamber of Commerce Guyana (AmCham) has joined forces with the United States Embassy to bring a Shark Tank Pitch event, where young entrepreneurs will present their innovative ideas.

Entrepreneurs between the ages of 21 to 35 are eligible to enter the inaugural “Shark Tank” Business Pitch Competition. The idea deemed to be the most innovative will receive $1 million in prize money to be used to further develop their business idea.

According to AmCham, winners will receive a wide range of support including funding, leadership coaching, networking opportunities, and a bevy of developmental resources.

“The event gives local entrepreneurs the opportunity to present their idea, product or service to a panel of esteemed judges for investment consideration. The competition aims to provide a platform to introduce and foster a culture of innovation in business, strengthen the capacity of young entrepreneurs, and reinforce AmCham and the US Embassy’s commitment to helping innovative youth

to increase their competitiveness and turn their ideas into commercial products and/or services,” the Chamber underscored.

Persons are required to complete the AmCham Guyana Shark Tank Application, detailing their idea for a new commercial product or service along with a 30 to 60 second video presentation.

Ten applicants will be shortlisted by a panel of five local business leaders and will be asked to submit a more detailed description of their product subject or service and to personally present their respective business pitches to these judges at a later date.

‘The worst part is not knowing’

– family of missing man not giving up hope

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amily members of 44-year-old Anthony Harilall, also known as “Bo”, who has been missing for the past eight years, are not giving up hope of finding him alive. He has last been seen in 2013, walking with a friend along a street in Sisters Village, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

A member of his family related on Friday that they have not received any new leads, even after publishing that he is still missing more than three months ago.

That member has said they are now fearing the worst, as concerns for his welfare grow with each passing day.

Family members are now hoping that someone who has seen him would inform him that members of his family are looking for him.

His sister Radica Harilall has described her brother as a loving person who deserves to be reunited with his family, especially his daughter, who is longing to see him again.

Anthony Harilall was deported from the United States in 2002, and, until his disappearance, had been residing at Sisters Village, (WBD) with an uncle.

However, the uncle passed away, and he was left at the house alone. Family members later lost contact with him.

In a previous interview with Guyana Times, Anthony Harilall’s sister Radica explained that sev-

is.

“The worst part is not knowing where he is for so long. We are just scared he’s hurt. His daughter wants a relationship with him. I would want to say to him, ‘Please come forward, Bo’.

We love you so much, and want to help you, wherever

Missing: Anthony Harilall, aka “Bo”

eral persons are looking for him, but none has been able to locate him. She said his family which resides in the USA would like to have some closure on the matter.

She said the family had initially thought he had gone into the interior to work, but as the years passed, they became worried when he neither returned home nor made contact with them.

She said that relatives who have tried to file a missing person’s report from the US have been advised to return to Guyana to make an official report.

On Friday, the woman said: “We’ve checked all the hospitals, jails, posted him (his picture) all over the media; the next step is to move to the Home Affairs Ministry. We will not give up. I will never give up on finding my brother. I believe God will show us where he

you are”, she pleaded.

Anyone with any information regarding the whereabouts of Anthony Harilall, also known as “Bo”, is kindly being asked to make contact with his daughter Victoria Harilall (+1-570-895-1465) or his sister Radica Harilall at (+1-347-870-6125).

All finalists will receive professional business coaching on refining their business plans and creating pitch decks. Several business leaders will act as “Sharks” and ask questions of the finalists, who will defend their innovations and make a business case for its feasibility.

More details about the competition can be found at: https://amcham.gy/ shark-tank-competition/.

The deadline for submission is August 6, 2022.

AmCham was created with the purpose of promoting America–Guyana bilateral trade opportunities and activities; to improve market access for AmericaGuyana goods and services; to provide an economic, social, and policy platform for its members; to encourage networking and build business connections, among others.

Shark Tank events have been created in several countries, including the United States, linking entrepreneurs with investors. Typically, persons are required to bring to the table, a unique business idea that will prove feasible and profitable should it be embarked on.

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SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

guyanatimesgy.com

Regional

Four US border agency employees Mexico’s annual inflation could face discipline over hits 21-year high in June treatment of Haitian migrants

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our employees from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have been referred for disciplinary review over their treatment of Haitian migrants who they sought to push back across the Rio Grande using horses last September, CBP officials said on Friday as the agency released a more than 500-page report on a widely filmed and photographed incident.

CBP Commissioner Chris Magnus said in a press conference stressed the disciplinary process related to the Sept 19 incident was ongoing and did not identify the employees.

Reuters witnesses at the time saw mounted officers wearing cowboy hats blocking the paths of migrants, and one officer unfurling horse reins resembling a lariat, which he swung near a man’s face as he carried a bag of food across the Rio Grande river to a makeshift encampment in the United States. The images triggered a strong nationwide backlash and calls for an investigation.

Magnus added the report said no migrants were struck

A US border patrol officer grabing the shirt of a migrant trying to return to the United States along the Rio Grande river, after having crossed from the United States into Mexico to buy food, as seen from Ciudad Acuna, in Ciudad Acuna, Mexico, September 19, 2021

with the reins that agents were photographed swinging in their direction. But the report outlined the agents’ inappropriate behavior toward Haitians, including yelling profanity and insults related to a migrant’s national origin, and using unnecessary force against migrants attempting to reenter the United States with food.

The investigation found one agent on horseback grabbed a man and spun him around in a widely photographed incident, which took place near a sprawling river-

side encampment in Del Rio, Texas that had formed after the rapid arrival of thousands of Haitian migrants at the US-Mexico border.

Advocates and migrants suing the government over their treatment during the incident said the Haitian man depicted in the widely seen photos described the mounted officer grabbing his neck and only releasing him when the horse was about to trample him.

He called the experience humiliating in a court filing.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

COVID-19 pushed Jamaica’s maternal mortality rate to almost record level in 2021

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iting the high maternal mortality rate associated with COVID-19, Professor Affette McCaw Binns, a reproductive health epidemiologist, is advising expectant mothers, and women who are planning to get pregnant, to be vaccinated. McCaw Binns was speaking on Wednesday, the first day of a three-day Nurse Practitioners in Jamaica’s 68th Scientific Seminar at the Hilton Rose Hall in St James.

The conference is being held under the theme:

“Maternal and Child Health: Building Blocks for a Secure Future”.

“If you are planning to get pregnant, get vaccinated.

You don’t want COVID because when you get COVID and you are pregnant the outcome is not very pretty. So that is the message I would like to give to women who are pregnant, or planning to become pregnant, to be administered in pregnancy keep yourself safe and have a happy and healthy pregnancy and live,” McCaw Binns said.

Speaking with report-

ers after addressing the conference, McCaw Binns revealed that COVID-19 has been the main contributor to last year’s maternal mortality rate, which she argued was the highest it has been in Jamaica for almost a century.

“The new kid on the block over the last two years is COVID-19 and we have seen that the maternal mortality rate in 2021 associated with COVID alone has been as high as everything else put together,” McCaw Binns said. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Argentina holds tender for new gas pipeline key to reversing energy deficit

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rgentina will take a key step on Friday in the construction of a major new natural gas pipeline for its huge Vaca Muerta shale formation, vital to helping the South American country reverse a deep energy deficit that is costing it billions of dollars.

The Government, rattled by a recent shakeup in the Economy Ministry, will hold the last stage of the tender to select a firm for the construction work for the pipeline’s first phase, with work expected to begin in October and end in 2023.

New Economy Minister Silvina Batakis, who over-

sees the energy secretariat, this week gave her backing to the project after her predecessor Martin Guzman abruptly resigned. Domestic gas supply has become a focus with spiking global prices.

“There is consensus across the political spectrum for this work,” said a Government source who asked not to be identified, adding there was a “group of interested firms” and that the Government hoped to award the tender in August.

The development of the gas pipeline is being led by Energía Argentina, a public company under the or-

bit of the Secretary of Energy, which reports to the Ministry of Economy.

The gas pipeline and related works will allow transport capacity to be increased initially by an estimated 11 million cubic meters of gas per day.

The new pipeline is key because the current system is overwhelmed, limiting the country’s ability to replace LNG imports which have spiked in price due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Vaca Muerta is the world’s second largest reserve of shale gas and the fourth largest oil reserve.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

exico’s annual inflation accelerated in June to a level not seen since early 2001, official data showed on Thursday, suggesting the central bank will have little choice but to continue its monetary tightening to tame spiralling consumer prices.

Mexican consumer prices rose 7.99 per cent in the year through June, the national statistics agency said, slightly above the 7.95 per cent consensus forecast of economists polled by Reuters news agency.

That was also far above the central bank’s target of

3 per cent, plus or minus a percentage point, and marked the highest level since January 2001, when Mexico’s 12-month inflation stood at 8.11 per cent.

The latest inflation figures are expected to lead Banxico, as the central bank is known, to keep raising rates after a record 75-basis-point hike last month, when it warned it would hike rates again and by as much to curb inflation.

The bank, which has increased rates by 375 basis points since mid-2021, will announce its next monetary policy decision on August 11.

Consumer prices rose 0.84 per cent in June, non-seasonally adjusted figures showed, ahead of a market forecast of a 0.81 per cent increase.

The closely watched core index, which strips out some volatile food and energy prices, rose 0.77 per cent during the month, below expectations of a 0.8 per cent rise.

Andres Abadia, Latin America economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, called the data a bad end to the second quarter, with pass-through from higher commodity prices the key issue. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon hits record for first half of 2022

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eforestation in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest reached a record high for the first six months of the year, as an area five times the size of New York City was destroyed, preliminary Government data showed on Friday.

From January to June, 3988 square km (1540 square miles) were cleared in the region, according to national space research agency Inpe.

That’s an increase of 10.6 per cent from the same months last year and the highest level for that period

since the agency began compiling its current DETER-B data series in mid-2015.

Destruction rose 5.5 per cent in June to 1120 square km, also a record for that month of the year.

The Amazon, the world’s largest rainforest, contains vast amounts of carbon, which is released as trees are destroyed, warming the atmosphere and driving climate change.

Deforestation is creeping deeper into the forest. In the first six months of the year, Amazonas state in the heart of the rainforest recorded more destruction than any

other state for the first time.

This year’s rising deforestation is also feeding unusually high levels of fire, which are likely to worsen in the months ahead, said Manoela Machado, a wildfire and deforestation researcher at University of Oxford.

Brazil recorded the highest number of fires in the Amazon for the month of June in 15 years, although those blazes are a small fraction of what is usually seen when fires peak in August and September, according to Inpe data. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Nicaragua expels Mother Teresa’s nuns in latest crackdown

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uns from the order founded by Mother Teresa have left Nicaragua after their organisation was stripped of its legal status.

They were escorted by Police to the border and crossed into neighbouring Costa Rica on foot.

Their organisation is among the latest to be shut down as part of a crackdown on anyone deemed to oppose President Daniel Ortega.

The Catholic Church has been outspoken about human rights abuses in Nicaragua.

Local media said 18 nuns from the Missionaries of Charity were driven to the border in a bus escorted by migration officials and Police officers.

The group had been stripped of its legal status on June 28 by the Nicaraguan Parliament, where members of President Ortega ‘s Sandinista party are in the majority.

The nuns had been working with the poor in Nicaragua since 1988 and

The nuns crossed on foot into neighbouring Costa Rica

ran a children’s nursery, a home for abused and abandoned girls and a nursing home.

A Government department which oversees non-governmental organisations accused it of “not meeting its obligations” to declare the provenance of its funds.

Tension between the Government of Daniel Ortega and the Catholic Church has been high ever since clergy sheltered students protesting against President Ortega during a wave of anti-government

protests in 2018.

And more recently, in March, the government expelled the Apostolic Nuncio the Catholic Church’s equivalent to an ambassador - in a move the Vatican called an “unjustified unilateral measure”.

President Ortega himself has accused Catholic clergy of being “coup mongers” and called them “devils in cassocks”.

The 76-year-old is in his fourth consecutive term in office after winning a 2021 presidential election widely denounced as a sham.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

27

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil rises 2%, but posts weekly loss on recession fears

O

il prices rose about 2 per cent in volatile trade on Friday but were still heading for a weekly decline as investors worried about a potential recession-driven demand downturn even as global fuel supplies remained tight.

Central banks around the world are raising interest rates to tame inflation, spurring fears that rising borrowing costs could stifle growth, while mass COVID-19 testing in Shanghai this week caused worries about potential lockdowns that could also hit oil demand.

Brent crude futures rose US$2.37, or 2.3 per cent, to settle at US$107.02 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate crude rose US$2.06, or 2 per cent, to settle at US$104.79 a barrel. Both benchmarks traded in negative territory and then rebounded from session lows.

Brent posted a weekly decline of about 4.1 per cent and WTI a loss of 3.4 per cent, following on from the first monthly decline since November. Prices tumbled on Tuesday, when Brent's US$10.73 drop was the contract's third-biggest daily fall since it started trading in 1988.

US non-farm payrolls data showed the economy added more jobs than expected in June, a sign of persistent labour market strength that gives the Federal Reserve ammunition to deliver another 75-basis-point rate hike this month.

"The oil market is looking at the jobs report as a doubleedged sword," said Phil Flynn, analyst at Price Futures Group.

"The jobs number was positive from a demand perspective.

On the bearish side, the market is concerned that if the jobs market is strong, the Fed can be more aggressive with raising rates."

US energy firms this week added two oil rigs, bringing the total to 597, highest since March 2020, energy services firm Baker Hughes Co said.

Oil prices soared during the first half of 2022. Brent neared the record high of US$147 after Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in February, adding to supply concerns.

"Economic worries may have roiled oil prices this week, but the market is still flashing bullish signals. This is because supply tightness is more likely to intensify from this point than to ease," said Stephen Brennock of oil broker PVM. Western bans on Russian oil exports have supported prices and sparked a re-routing of flows while the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allied producers struggle to deliver on pledged production increases.

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned the West that continued sanctions against Moscow risked triggering "catastrophic" energy price rises for consumers around the world. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Ukraine pleads for more weapons as defiant Russia warns West

U

kraine urged its allies on Friday to send more weapons as its forces dug in to slow Russia's military advance through the eastern Donbas region, while a belligerent Moscow warned Western nations of consequences for their reprisals over its invasion.

Signalling that the Kremlin was in no mood for compromise, President Vladimir Putin said continued use of sanctions against Russia risked causing "catastrophic" energy price rises.

Putin's top diplomat Sergei Lavrov clashed with his Western counterparts at a G20 meeting, where they urged Russia to allow Kyiv to ship blockaded Ukrainian grain out to an increasingly hungry world.

Meanwhile, Moscow's envoy to London offered lit-

Ukrainian servicemen ride on a military vehicle, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Donetsk region, Ukraine July 8, 2022

tle prospect of a pull-back from parts of Ukraine under Russian control.

Ambassador Andrei Kelin told Reuters that Russian troops would capture the rest of Donbas in

Several killed in floods during pilgrimage in Kashmir

A

t least eight people have been killed and several others were missing after a sudden heavy rainstorm near the holy Amarnath cave shrine in India-administered Kashmir, Police have said.

The cloudburst on Friday near the mountain cave revered by Hindus sent a wall of water down a gorge and swept away about two dozen camps and two makeshift kitchens, officials said.

An estimated 10,000 people were in the mountains when the rains struck.

“Within 10 to 15 minutes the force of the wa-

ter was such that it took the tents with it. Many tents were washed away, we got information that at least 20 to 25 tents,” said Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Vivek Pandey.

The region’s disaster management department said emergency workers were searching for several missing people.

Kashmir Police Chief Vijay Kumar said a rescue operation has recovered eight dead bodies after the cloudburst near the cave.

“Some tents and community kitchens have washed away in the flash flood,” he said.

Angola's former Roe v Wade: Biden calls for federal President Jose Eduardo dos Santos dies at 79 law to restore abortion rights

P

resident Joe Biden has said a federal law would be the "fastest way" to restore abortion rights as he signed an order to safeguard abortion access.

He called a recent Supreme Court abortion ruling, which ended the nationwide right to the procedure, "an exercise in raw political power".

It paved the way for individual US states to decide if and how to allow abortions.

Biden has faced pressure to respond to the ruling with bolder action.

The presidential order, signed on Friday, is expected to have a limited impact - to mitigate some of the restrictions but not fully restore abortion rights.

Biden has maintained that his ability to institute abortion rights is limited without action from the US Congress.

"The fastest route to restore Roe is to pass a nation-

al law codifying Roe," Biden said, referring to the landmark 1973 ruling that guaranteed the constitutional right to an abortion.

In his remarks, he emphasised this was an issue for the coming midterm elections and urged people to vote in Democratic majorities as the fastest way to bring Roe V Wade back, and said that US voters had a choice between "the mainstream or the extreme".

The order also takes additional steps to protect patient privacy, including by addressing the transfer and sales of sensitive health-related data, combatting digital surveillance related to reproductive health care services.

A White House official warned that women should be wary of apps that track their menstrual periods after the rollback of federal abortion rights. (Excerpt from BBC News)

eastern Ukraine and were unlikely to withdraw from land across the southern coast.

Ukraine would eventually have to strike a peace deal or "continue slipping down

this hill" to ruin, he said.

On the Donbas frontlines, Ukrainian officials reported Russian shelling of towns and villages ahead of an anticipated push for more territory.

A Ukrainian infantry unit on the road to the town of Siversk, whose members spoke to Reuters, had set up positions on the edge of a deep earth bunker covered with logs and sandbags and defended by machine guns.

"Right now it's more of our artillery than theirs, so it's good," said the unit deputy commander. "But there might be incoming soon."

On Thursday, Putin had indicated that current prospects of finding a solution to the conflict were dim, saying Russia's campaign in Ukraine had barely started.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

A

ngola's former President Jose Eduardo dos Santos, who ruled Africa's second-biggest oil producer for nearly four decades, died on Friday, the presidency said.

The 79-year-old died at the Teknon clinic in Barcelona, Spain, where he was being treated following a prolonged illness, according to the statement.

One of Africa's longest serving leaders, dos Santos stepped down five years ago. His rule was marked by a civil war lasting nearly three decades against USbacked UNITA rebels, which he won in 2002, and a subsequent oil-fuelled boom.

His successor, President Joao Lourenco, declared five days of national mourning and described dos Santos as a "unique figure of the Angolan homeland."

Despite being handpicked by dos Santos to succeed him, Lourenco swiftly moved to investigate allega-

tions of multibillion-dollar corruption during the former President's era.

Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa hailed the good relationship fostered by dos Santos between the two countries.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said dos Santos had helped in the fight against white minority rule under apartheid.

Angolan journalist and rights activist Rafael Marques de Morais, an outspoken critic of dos Santos, wrote earlier this week on an anti-corruption website that dos Santos' political legacy "will not be missed but it leaves suffering".

Tributes and criticism also came from ordinary citizens. Júlia João, a 44-yearold homeworker in Luanda, said dos Santos had presided well over the peaceful transition after the war, but squandered the chance to transform Angola. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Another official, who was not authorised to speak to the media, said the death toll was 13, as five more bodies had been recovered.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave his condolences in a post on Twitter, saying he was “anguished” by the incident.

Bottom of Form

The Amarnath pilgrimage began on June 30 and tens of thousands of pilgrims have already visited the cave shrine where Hindus worship Lingam, a naturally formed ice stalagmite, as an incarnation of Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and regeneration.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Shinzo Abe's assassin used a handmade firearm

F

ormer Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the longest-serving leader of modern Japan, was gunned down on Friday while campaigning for a parliamentary election, shocking a country where guns are tightly controlled and political violence almost unthinkable.

Abe, 67, was pronounced dead around five and a half hours after the shooting in the city of Nara. Police arrested a 41-year-old man and said the weapon was a homemade gun.

"I am simply speechless over the news of Abe's death," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Abe's protege, told reporters.

Earlier, as Abe still lay in hospital where doctors tried to revive him, Kishida struggled to keep his emotions in check.

"This attack is an act of brutality that happened during the elections - the very foundation of our democracy - and is absolutely unforgivable," he said.

Abe had been making a campaign speech outside a train station when two shots rang out. Security officials were then seen tackling a man in a grey T-shirt and beige trousers.

Abe was taken to hospital in cardiopulmonary arrest and showing no vital

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Danang, Vietnam November 11, 2017

signs. He was declared dead at 5:03 pm (0803 GMT), having bled to death from deep wounds to the heart and the right side of his neck.

Police said the gunman had admitted to shooting Abe with a handmade firearm he had fashioned out of metal and wood.

Media reported his name as Tetsuya Yamagami.

The suspect said he bore a grudge against a "specific organisation" and believed Abe was part of it, and that his grudge was not about politics, the Police said, adding it was not clear if the unnamed organisation actually existed. (Excerpt from Reuters)

28

SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Rethink what you want to convey.

If you agree to something too quickly, you’ll end up in an awkward position.

Listen to what others say, assess the situation and make suggestions.

(March 21-April 19)

DILBERT

(April 20-May 20)

Don’t mess with authority figures.

Stick to the rules and stay under budget. Don’t let your emotions take you down a path that’s not sustainable.

Monitor your finances. Declutter your space.

Pay attention to how you look, feel and treat others. Investing in a makeover or changing your fitness routine to ensure a healthier lifestyle will make you rethink your future.

(May 21-June 20)

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Be creative and do unique things.

Evaluate your situation and take responsibility for your happiness. Put together a to-do list and a budget, and you’ll put your mind at ease. Focus on your health.

Don’t take on too much. Watch from a distance rather than participate. Study and analyze what’s going on, then decide how to handle the changes others make. Don’t feel intimidated.

Don’t get involved in unsavory activities. Intelligent suggestions will be well received, which will encourage you to follow through with your plans. Helping others will make you feel good.

Pay attention to personal growth, financial gains and changes of direction. Focus on what interests you most and join groups that can help you expand your knowledge and earning potential.

Emotional distress, responsibilities and dealing with changes you have no control over will keep you busy.

Channel your energy into finding solutions. Don’t overspend to get your way.

SUDOKU (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

A serious discussion with a loved one will bring you closer to each other.

Be open and receptive, and you’ll discover something that will help set the stage for a valuable piece of teamwork.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

(Feb. 20-March 20)

You’ll get help making your life easier and your home comfortable. Your quick wit will create new beginnings and help you find ways to use your talents to bring in more cash. Stick to the facts.

Put more effort into fitness and health. Make a point to work toward becoming a lean, mean machine who can outmatch anyone who messes with you. Personal improvements will fetch compliments.

Someone will offer a false impression. Beware of manipulative people who plan to put you in a difficult position. Be smart, stick close to home and protect what you have worked hard to achieve.

SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

29

India vs England: T20I Series, game 2 of 3…

England look to bounce back - as Kohli, Bumrah and Pant return for India

“D

oes Virat Kohli need motivation?

What are you saying, my friend?” That was Rohit Sharma earlier this year, laughing off a suggestion that one of the elite white-ball batters of this generation could be lacking in the zest quotient.

India’s refreshing new take to T20 batting may just be that push for Kohli, should he need it. His return to the XI could be at the expense of the latest centurion in the format, who in Southampton was part of the team’s first set

of Nos. 3, 4 and 5 to have each batted 10+ balls and still scored at a strike-rate in excess of 150.

The good news for Kohli is that, in his last T20I, in Kolkata, he hit six fours from the first 15 balls he faced, an innings more in line with the current demands of this team.

“We have spoken about it a lot,” Rohit said about the team’s batting intent. “There is a certain approach we want to take. Yes, sometimes it comes off, sometimes it doesn’t, but you have to keep backing yourself to

do that again and again.

“That’s why it is so challenging, because you can’t keep coming and doing the same thing every now and then.

It is something we have spoken about, and all the players need to buy into it. Not just one or two players who understand what they want to do, but the whole batting unit coming together and understanding where the team wants to go. Guys seem to be pretty clear with that message.”

Kohli, though, is one of many returnees to the squad. Jasprit Bumrah remains a certainty, Rishabh Pant adds a left-handed presence to the middle-order, and Shreyas Iyer has the weight of performances behind him. Each of them, though, would need matches to acclimatise to their specific roles, and even to those around them. One wonders how India plan on juggling their series priorities with World Cup prep without compromising on their playing style.

On the other hand, England have never lacked for smarts

themselves, with one of limitedovers cricket’s savviest men at the helm. As ever, they have a strapping top-order, but one that has misfired more often than the team would have liked. Jos Buttler’s strike-rate of 129.81 in the games post last year’s World Cup is the best among those that have featured in the top-four since. The likes of Jason Roy and Dawid Malan will need to step up at Edgbaston, especially in the face of a weaker bowling front, if England are to avoid their fourthstraight T20I series loss to India.

What to expect: Teams batting first have won five of the eight games in the T20 Blast this season. However, a sunny day awaits the two teams on Saturday, in stark contrast to the slew of shortened games that have been played here. If the last two full games are any representation, teams batting first have scored 228 and 186, and then bowled the opposition out cheaply.

Rohit Sharma reckoned that

bowling second in Southampton offered a little more nip in the air for the quicks, a factor that could be neutralised by this being a day game.

England

Given the injury histories of the fast bowlers available to Buttler for the series, and the rapid turnaround between games, chop and change is inevitable.

Expect Richard Gleeson, 23 wickets at 7.83 ER in the T20 Blast, to make an appearance.

Possible XI: Jason Roy, Jos Buttler (c&wk), Dawid Malan, Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Chris Jordan, Matt Parkinson, Reece Topley, Richard Gleeson/Tymal Mills

India

India have their big-name players - barring KL Rahul available after a while, and this is bound to disturb the continuity. Dinesh Karthik has

been identified as the specialist finisher, but there is perhaps no place for him and Rishabh Pant together, unless India play Hardik Pandya as the third seamer and play a bowler light. Should they go with Pant, Pandya is likely to relinquish his more versatile No.5 role to reprise his old doyen of the death overs avatar one step lower in the order. Ravindra Jadeja will be a straight swap for Axar Patel.

Possible XI: Rohit Sharma (c), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant/ Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshal Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal

What they said:

“We were sloppy on the field.

Those catches should have been taken. Pretty sure we will field pretty well in the coming games.”

- Rohit Sharma saw a clear area of improvement after his team dropped as many as five catches in the series opener. (Cricbuzz)

Novak Djokovic beats Cameron Norrie to reach Wimbledon 2022 final

N

ovak Djokovic is a win away from a seventh Wimbledon title, after coming back from a set down to end Cameron Norrie's dream home run at the All England Club.

Norrie was looking to become the first British man to reach the final at the All England Club since Andy Murray's triumph in 2016. He appeared to have had Djokovic unsettled when he won the first set in startlingly comfortable fashion. However, Djokovic, as he has done so often, recovered superbly to storm to a 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 victory and set up a final with Nick Kyrgios, who has benefited from Rafael Nadal's withdrawal through injury.

The pair traded breaks in the first two games, but Norrie struck a key blow in the fifth game when Djokovic hit long off a low backhand from the Briton.

Djokovic fired into the net two games later, to hand Norrie a third break of a set he wrapped

up with an ace, despite two double faults.

Djokovic responded by placing Norrie under sustained pressure on serve, and it told in the eighth game of the second when the ninth seed pushed a forehand long, and he did the

same off the backhand side as the Serbian levelled the match.

Norrie ballooned a forehand long in the opening game of the third to give the break to Djokovic, who raced away in style thereafter.

An excellent return off a Norrie second serve gave Djokovic a break in the first game of the fourth, and he could not be prevented from reaching the finish line, despite the home hope's spirited effort.

Data Slam: Djokovic's resilience shines through again Djokovic has now won 12 of his last 14 Grand Slam matches after losing the first set. The only exceptions in that run came in the 2021 US Open final

defeat to Daniil Medvedev and in the French Open quarterfinal loss to Nadal this year.

With neither of those opponents in his way, Djokovic will be expected to claim a 21st Grand Slam title with triumph over Kyrgios. (Sportsmax) WINNERS/UNFORCED

ERRORS Djokovic – 38/28 Norrie – 33/36 ACES/DOUBLE FAULTS Djokovic – 13/1 Norrie – 7/3 BREAK POINTS WON Djokovic – 5/14 Norrie - 3/4

Tottenham sign France centre-back Clement Lenglet on season-long loan from Barcelona

Jamaican hurdler Ackera Nugent not thinking of going pro just yet

S

he is one of the fastest women in the world in the 100m hurdles, but Ackera Nugent, the second-fastest Jamaican woman on the planet this year, is not considering turning professional just yet.

According to the reigning World U20 champion, getting an education is among her goals, and she still has unfinished business as a collegiate athlete.

Nugent, 20, who completed her sophomore year at Baylor University in May, ran a personal best of 12.45 at the Big 12 Championships in Lubbock,

"Having an education with track is very important," she says

Texas on May 15. The time, which she shares with Jamaican champion Britany Anderson, is the sixth-fastest in the world this year. Only Texas Tech’s Demisha Roswell’, who ran 12.44 to beat Nugent at the Big 12 Championships, has run faster.

Notwithstanding what is a significant accomplishment, Nugent is focused on completing her education at Baylor, where she is majoring in Psychology.

“Basically, having an education with track is very important, so if I decide to go pro, I’d still be going to school, but I have only

run 12.4 once, and I haven’t run healthy; so, I have decided that I should come back to college and focus on trying to get an outdoor NCAA title,” the 2021 NCAA National Indoor champion has said.

Two years of college, she said, have been a great learning experience for her.

“It has taught me a lot: that I need to expect the unexpected; that you will have your highs and lows, but you have to get up and do what you have to do, especially not having your family around you, your support

system, and when you have to put your trust in a coaching staff, a medical team,” she explained.

“It has helped me grow so much.

I am more mature, and Baylor is helping me grow into the amazing athlete that I think I am today.”

Nugent shut down her season in June after tearing her plantar fascia in regionals earlier this year. The decision saw her miss the NCAA Division 1 nationals in Oregon, and also the Jamaica National Championships at the end of June. (Sportsmax)

T

ottenham have signed France centre-back Clement Lenglet from Barcelona on a season-long loan. The deal is reported to have an option-to-buy clause included.

Lenglet, 27, struggled to cement his place in Barcelona’s first XI last season, starting just seven La Liga matches.

The Catalan club signed Lenglet from Sevilla for 35.9m euros (£32m) in 2018, and added a 300-million-euro

(£265m) release clause to his contract.

He becomes Antonio Conte’s fifth summer signing, following the arrivals of Ivan Perisic, Fraser Forster, Yves Bissouma and Richarlison.

Lenglet has won 15 caps for France since making his debut in 2019, and has made a total of 160 appearances for Barcelona, helping them win the 2018-19 La Liga title and the Copa de Rey in 2021. (BBC. COM)

30

SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

McGill record mixed fortunes in 2022 tour of Barbados …Singh’s 97 is highlight of tour

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Abdul Razack scored an unbeaten 47 in game three

M

cGill Superstars Sports Club of Guyana continued their tour of Barbados with an additional two games, one of which they were able to win, while losing in the other.

This now takes their tally to two wins and two losses. In game three, they lost to a might University of the West Indies (UWI) team, but bounced back to take game four against Cupid

Cavaliers CC. In game three, McGill were set to face UWI CC at UWI Campus Ground. Mc Gill won the toss, chose to bat first, and were able to accumulate a decent total of 140-5 in their allotted 20 overs. Top scoring for McGill were Abdul Razack 47* (4×6) and Travis Persaud 13 (2×4), while bowling for UWI CC, Matthew Forde took 1-5 (3 overs).

UWI CC chased the total

Travis Persaud

with ease, ending on 141-3 in 15 overs. Top scorers were Zachary Mc Caskie with 55* (6x4, 2×6) and Demetrius Richards with 39 (3×4, 3×6). Bowling for McGill, Kheshram Seyhodan took 2-31 from his four overs. Mc Gill lost by 7 wickets.

In the game four encounter with Cupid Cavaliers CC at Lears Cricket Ground, McGill won the toss, chose to bat first, and posted a whopping 195-6 in 20 overs.

Project “Cricket gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana”

Prahalad Singh scored 97

Top scorers were Prahalad Singh with 97 (6×4, 9×6) and Narendra Persaud with 47 (5×4, 1×6).

Bowling for Cupid, Oshane Ferrel took 3-16 (3 overs) and Vickey Jaisingh took 2-45 (4 overs).

Replying to the mammoth total, Cupid Cavaliers could afford only 170-7 in their 20 overs, with Kevon Cummings leding the charge with 81 (2×4,10×6). Abdul Razack returned bowling figures of 2-18 (3 overs), which enabled Mc Gill to win by 26 runs.

Speaking with this publication

at the end of the two games, McGill batsman Travis Persaud said, “Mixed fortunes so far on tour. We played on Cupid ground yesterday. The pitch is similar to Guyana. The team comprises of 70% Guyanese as well. The atmosphere all felt like back home.

UWI pitch was a green track with a lot of pace and bounce. It was by far the most uncomfortable to bat on. We have to play Police at Police, and Monday is our last game against Barbados Defence Force at BDF ground.”

Classified Ads $5+VAT per word

Call: 223-7230-1 Alvin Mohabir to captain Ext 50 CWI Regional U17 tourney…

USA-based Guyanese Chin Singh contributes $40,000 strong under-17 Guyana team box of red cricket balls, while the RHCCCC has received two, fifteen white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicketkeeping gloves and a set of stumps and bails.

C

Chin Singh (L) and Anil Beharry

hin Singh, formerly of East Canje, Berbice but now resident in New York, has made a contribution of $40,000 towards Project “Cricket Gear for Young and Promising Cricketers in Guyana”.

The former first division cricketer of the Rose Hall Community Centre CC voluntarily made this contribution. At a simple ceremony held recently in New York, Singh said he has been following the work of this initiative, a joint venture by Kishan Das of the USA and Anil Beharry of Guyana, and is impressed that cricketers and clubs across the length and breadth of Guyana are benefiting.

Beharry, in response, was grateful for the assistance, which would enhance the work of this project. “This initiative is to help identify and nurture young talents, and at the same time encourage them to educate themselves,” Beharry explained. “The project is happy to assist young players with the hope of producing more cricketers for Guyana and West

Indies,” the former Berbice Cricket Board President continued.

Total cricket-related items collected so far: $170,000 cash, two trophies, eleven cricket boots, seventeen pairs of batting pads, nineteen bats, thirteen pairs of batting gloves, nineteen thigh pads, one wicket keeping pad, one arm guard, six cricket bags and two helmets. In addition to the above, $600,000 worth in gear was donated by Sheik Mohamed, former national wicketkeeperbatsman.

To date, thirty-six young players from all three counties of Guyana have benefited from the receipt of three junior gear bags, two trophies, one arm guard, thirteen bats, one box, two helmets, nine pairs of cricket shoes, nine pairs of batting pads, one bat rubber, and eleven pairs of batting gloves.

In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area have benefited from two used bats. Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenaam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard have also each received one

Cricket related items, used or new, will be distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the country, and club leaders would also assist to identify talent. Progressive and well managed clubs would also benefit.

The owners of this initiative take this opportunity to thank Javed and Imran of West Indian Sports Complex, Option Group of USA, Hilbert Foster, Bish Panday of P and P Insurance Brokers, Sean Devers, Trevis Simon, Årïêl J. Tïlkú, Aaron Beharry, Leanna Bachan and Imran Saccoor, Devon Ramnauth, Teddy Singh, Romash Munna, Ravi Etwaroo, Kelvin Brijlall, Ravin Harkishun, Surendra Harkishun, Allan Mangru, Vishal Mahabir, Sherman Austin, Huburn Evans, Rajendra Sadeo and Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall, Sheik Mohamed of Star Sports Awards and Trophies, and Ajay Gainda of Cricket Equipment Guyana, Gajanand Singh, Chin Singh, Peter Ramkissoon, Rabindranath Saywack, Roshan Gaffoor, Ameer Rahaman, Denesh Chandrapaul and Dr Cecil Beharry.

Distribution will continue.

Anyone interested in contributing can contact Anil Beharry on 6236875 or Kishan Das on 1-718-6640896.

Alvin Mohabir will captain the side

Rampertab Ramnauth has been appointed vice-captain

lvin Mohabir has been appointed captain of a strong Guyana under-17 squad which would participate in the Cricket West Indies Regional Under-17 Tournament in Trinidad and Tobago from July 17-28.

Mohabir will have former West Indies Under-15 batsman Rampertap Ramnauth as his deputy, and the squad includes exiting young batsman Mavindra Dindial, Jadon Campbell and Zachary Jodha, who are all returning from the last Regional Under-17 tournament.

Jonathan Van Lang, leading run-scorer in the just concluded GCB Under-17 Inter-County Tournament, has also been included in what should be a very strong batting line-up, while newcomer Kevin Kisten, captain of the GCB Rising Stars XI, will be the wicket-keeper.

Promising young West Indies Under-19 fast bowler Isai Thorne has been left out of the squad because of a chronic knee injury.

Neil Rudder has been appointed Team Manager, while Garvin Nedd returns as the coach.

The squad is expected to commence training for the regional tournament on Saturday, July 9, 2022 at the LBI Facility. The full squad reads: 1. Rampertab Ramnauth (Vice Captain) 2. Jadon Campbell 3. Romeo Deonarine 4. Anthony Khan 5. Mavindra Dindyal 6. Alvin Mohabir (Captain) 7. Zachary Jodha 8. Jonathan Van Lang 9. Nityanand Mathura 10. Kevin Kisten (W/keeperBatsman) 11. Bruce Vincent 12. Goucharran Chuli 13. Dillon Ramsaroop 14. Sasenarine Harricharran.

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The standby players are as follows: 1. Thaddius Lovell 2.

Shiloh Adams (Wicketkeeper) 3. Sanjay Algoo 4. Jayden Dowlin 5. Krsna Singh 6. Shazzif Mohamed 7. Nyron Hick

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(Ext 55)

SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

Gudakesh Motie bowling during a net session on Friday (Brandon Corlette photos)

By Brandon Corlette

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est Indies have had a great deal of success against the touring Bangladeshis in both the Test and T20I series, winning both 2-0; but the final leg of the Bangladesh tour is the three-match One Day International (ODI) series which starts on Sunday July 19 from 9:30h.

Bangladesh have won five of the six ODI series they played, including a 3-0 win against West

Indies in 2020-2021. Numbers do not lie, and the ODI format also suits Bangladesh, who have won the last ODI series played in the Caribbean 2-1.

The members of this Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies side are confident after the T20I series against Bangladesh, but from an ODI perspective, this series will be important, since West Indies are fresh from a whitewash against Pakistan.

Bangladesh star batsman Tamim Iqbal said on Thursday

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Tamim Iqbal will be the rock for Bangladesh

at Providence: "I hope we start well on July 10, and let us see.

This is one format that we are comfortable in. By saying that, we know the other team is playing well, so we have to bring our 'A' game."

Bangladesh will be without Shakib Al Hasan for the ODI series. This will certainly be a big loss, but Iqbal has noted that the team is confident. Despite West Indies winning only three of their last ten ODI series, captain Pooran has said the aim is to

The ExxonMobil National School Basketball Festival…

Chase, Kid Rock, President’s College, Bishops’ seal semifinal spots

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ction in the ExxonMobil National School Basketball Festival continued at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on

not disappoint, as it also was another close encounter. Kid Rock Academy held their nerves to defeat Kwakwani Secondary

Bishops’ toppled QC to book their spot in the semis

Thursday evening with a variety of thrilling matchups, which saw Chase Academy, Kid Rock Academy, President’s College and Bishops’ High School booking their spots in the semifinal matches of this tournament.

In the first game, Chase Academy and Mackenzie High locked horns, but Chase routed Mackenzie High 15 points to their 8 points.

Scoring for Chase Academy, Paul Emmanuel contributed

Shai Hope is the key batsman for West Indies

bowling in recent years, has said that despite the slow surface at Providence, the ODI format would aid in the Providence wicket playing better.

"When we first started, I thought the wicket was a bit tacky, with the rain around and covers…on it longer than normal, and no sun was present. But as the game went on, the wicket played nice; a bit slow, but in the longer format you will have a bit more time. It seems to be a good deck," Mayers explained.

The last time West Indies played an ODI at Providence was in 2019, against India, and that match had a no-result. The last

30 points to their 23. Leading the charge for Kid Rock, Teishon Kitt contributed 10 points and 5 rebounds, and Jameel Peters added 7 points and 6 rebounds.

Cordel Hoyte was the main man for Kwakwani with 11 points and 4 rebounds.

There had, for weeks, been banter, but Bishops’ laid down the law and showed why they should not be slept on, as they edged Queen’s College 31 points to 25 points. Scoring for Bishops were Micah Williams with 11 points, 11 rebounds; Yaniel Easton with 11 points, 5 rebounds; and Keyan Mars with 6 points, 19 rebounds.

Scoring for QC in a losing effort were Owen Hooper with 9 points, 5 rebounds and Ezekiel Griffith with 8 points, 5 rebounds.

ExxonMobil Guyana are the major sponsor of this year’s tournament, although support has also come from the National Sports Commission, G-Boat Guyana, Edward B. Beharry & Company Ltd, and Banks DIH Ltd.

completed ODI at Providence was in July 2018 against Bangladesh, which West Indies won by three runs. Son of the soil Shimron Hetmyer had scored a blistering century in that match, and it was a day in which Guyanese were entertained.

The West Indies squad for the One-Day Internationals is as follows: Nicholas Pooran (Captain), Shai Hope (Vice Captain), Shamarh Brooks, Keacy Carty, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Anderson Phillip, Rovman Powell and Jayden Seales.

Reserve: Romario Shepherd

GFF/DBU/UEFA Assist/Women Development League

Pakuri Jaguars ease to first triumph; Police and Fruta Conquerors also win -Five games on today

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s the Guyana Football Fe d e rat i o n / Wo m e n Development League heats up across the nation, a total of five (5) matches would be contested today at three venues.

Pakuri Jaguars of St. Cuthbert’s Mission, fresh off their first win on Thursday afternoon last, will hope to build on that momentum when they host the Essequibo AllStars from the Cinderella County at the St. Cuthbert’s Mission Ground from 16:00hrs.

The GFF NTC at Providence will be the hub of attraction for a double-header from 13:00hrs, when Coomacka United from the bauxite- mining town of

The players were on target for Fruta Conquerors against the Foxy Ladies

clashes kicks off at 13:00hrs between Bartica All-Stars and Fruta Conquerors, but the main attraction is set to get underway at 15:00hrs between Potaro

Chase Academy have booked a semifinal spot

President’s College are also in the semifinals

12 points and 6 rebounds, and Anthony Vasconcellos added 3 points, 6 rebounds and 12 steals.

Scoring for Mackenzie High, Tyrol Lamazon contributed 4 points and 3 rebounds.

The first game had a lot of fire, but the second game did

Game three witnessed President’s College and Marian Academy duking it out in a onesided affair in which President’s College were able to match their opponents’ offence and defence to prevail 48 points to 26 points.

Scoring for President’s College, Dejaun Grant made 19 points and 11 rebounds, while Ezekiel Saul contributed 12 points, 4 rebounds and 5 rebounds; Marion Fiedtkou scored 17 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals; and Kaden Khan scored 11 points as Marian Academy led from the front.

The final game of the night witnessed probably one of the most thrilling games ever, with Bishops’ High School taking on Queen’s College.

win the ODI series and trust the process.

"We started the 50-Over with a clean sweep against Netherlands, (but) we lost the next series, so I don't want to talk too much about it. I am happy that we can beat Bangladesh in this T20 series, and this will give us confidence that we can go into that game (the first ODI), play with belief, trust in the process in what we want to do as a team.

Again, we just want to go out there and try and win," Pooran said after the final T20I. Kyke Mayers, who has scored his maiden T20I fifty and has dominated Bangladesh

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A Pakuri Jaguars' player was in total control against Orealla on Thursday afternoon at the GFF National Training Centre

Linden would match skills with New Amsterdam United, and, from 15:00hrs, the Guyana Defence Force would be in battle against the Orealla Falcons.

Up at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, the first of two

Strikers and City side Santos.

Meanwhile, three matches were played on Thursday last at two venues. In the lone match at the GFF National Training Centre, there were end-toend exchanges between Pakuri

Jaguars (St Cuthbert Mission) and the Orealla Falcons from Berbice. The former team emerged victorious by a 3-1 margin, coming from behind.

The nippy Fiona Benjamin was in excellent form for the winners, scoring all three goals.

At the Leonora Track and Field Facility on the West Coast of Demerara, the Guyana Police Force FC made light work of West Demerara’s Foxy Ladies, winning 7-0. Police were led by the in-form Annalisa Vincent, who fired in a helmet-trick (four goals). The consistent Tiandi Smith supported well again, this time with a brace, while the other goal came off the boots of another consistent contributor, Siacy Adams.

And Fruta Conquerors have consolidated their place at the top of the points table with another solid display when they defeated fellow city side Santos 11-0. Their leading scorers were Jessica Ronsdale, Shantel Thornhill and Shambala Daniels, who each contributed a brace.

This GFF/Women Development League is supported by the Danish Football Union (DBU) and UEFA Assist.

SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2022

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

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hat better to accompany the biggest party in sport, than one of the best spirits in the Caribbean Region? And that is the way it will be for, at least, the next 5 years, as the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and El Dorado Rum renewed their partnership on Friday evening.

Since the Hero CPL’s first season in 2013, El Dorado had walked hand in hand with the franchise tournament, as the official spirit of the event.

Now, the partnership will endure another few years, much to the delight of the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) and CPL. “I believe the partnership between CPL and the deal is a good one, avision beneficial one and I think we both learned a lot about each other,” Komal Samaria, DDL’s Board of Directors shared at the event.

“But we recognize in DDL that brand building is a long-

Hero CPL’s Pete Russell and DDL’s Komal Samaroo sealing the deal with a handshake in the presence of DDL Marketing Director Sharda Veeren-Chand and CPL Commercial Director Jamie Stewart

term process, it’s a long journey and we are prepared for long journeys and in building the El Dorado brand, we try to demonstrate to the world that rum in general, and more particularly rum made in the Demerara region of Guyana is the best rum made anywhere,” he added.

More specific to their partnership with the ‘Biggest Party in Sport’, Samaria said,

“And I believe we use the platform of CPL to communicate that message globally.”

“You are having you know the best in cricket and the best in the world of sports being played in the backyard of where are the best rum is produced,” Samaria reiterated with a smile.

“Fortunately El Dorado bought into the vision of the biggest party in sport,” Hero

The ExxonMobil National School Basketball Festival…

CPL’s Commercial Director Jamie Stewart said prior to the partnership renewal.

Stewart went on to divulge more about the partnership between the two entities highlighting that it dates back to the CPL‘s inception in 2013.

“Going back to 2013 when the idea of CPL was just one page and the first, actually the very first, partners that we signed up for the CPL was

El Dorado rum,” Stewart disclosed.

He further stated, “The two people seated to my right were involved in that conversation, in that discussion.”

“Thank you for your support then and for your support moving forward,” Stewart remarked.

The El Dorado Rum- CPL partnership that was signed on Friday evening will contin-

ue until 2026.

Hero CPL 2022 is expected to commence on August 31, 2022 and conclude on September, 30, 2022. The tournament will move from St’. Kitts and Nevis, to St. Lucia, to Trinidad and Tabago and then concludes in Guyana, who will host their first final in the tournament’s 10-year history. (Jemima Holmes)

GFF/DBU/ UEFA Assist/ Women Development League

Pakuri Jaguars ease to first triumph; Police and Fruta Conquerors also win Page 31

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-Five games on today

Fiona Benjamin of the Pakuri Jaguars scored three goals

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