Guyana Times - Sunday April 4, 2021

P30 Childhood memories of kites and making and raising a caddy ole punch Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 4606 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021

Easter extols sacrifice, forgiveness, faith and hope - President Ali Page 3

... says these values will ensure we conquer pandemic - Easter a celebration of hope, re-emergence & eventual triumph of life – Opposition Leader

Guyana only Caribbean country with GDP growth in 2020 –World Bank

PRICE

$120 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Albouystown P41 businessman robbed at gunpoint

3 arrested, charged for murder of Victoria man P38

Body of drowned teenager P21 recovered

Page 42

— 27 other countries in region record negative growth

25,000 doses of Sputnik V vaccine arrive in Guyana - to boost vaccination campaign

Page 38

4 more die P40 from COVID-19, death toll now stands at 239 …94 new cases recorded in 24 hours

Soldier, GWI employee busted with ganja during Police raid P43

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony receives the first batch of the Sputnik V vaccine after it landed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri on Friday

Woman stabs lover to death after he ended relationship Page 41

Defence against $20M lawsuit was prepared within time frame – Nandlall Page 37

... says clerical error resulted in not being filed

Boat captain P14 nabbed with 6lbs cocaine at Bartica

2

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

3

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Sunday, April 4 – 10:30h – 12:00h and Monday, April 5 – 00:30h – 02:00h and 11:30h – 13:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, April 4 – 09:40h – 11:10h and Monday, April 5 – 11:15h – 12:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Thundery showers will prevail during the day. There will be partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly to NorthEasterly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 09:27h and 22:27h reaching maximum heights of 2.26 metres and 2.06 metres.

Low Tide: 15:45h reaching a minimum height of 0.97 metre.

COMMODITIES Indicators Crude Oil Rough Rice London Sugar

US$ $63.60/barrel $236.48/ton $423.40/ton

Live Spot Gold Bid/Ask Low/High Change

Change % +0.09 -0.32 +0.81

USD Per Ounce $1730.30 $1710.40 0.00

$1731.30 $1731.80 0.00%

Easter extols sacrifice, forgiveness, faith and hope - President Ali ...says these values will ensure we conquer pandemic — Easter a celebration of hope, re-emergence & eventual triumph of life – Opposition Leader

A

s Government continues to aggressively roll out the COVID-19 vaccination campaign amidst rising cases, President Dr Irfaan Ali is confident that Guyana will overcome the battle against the pandemic that is ravaging the world.

In his Easter message to the nation, the Head of State noted that it’s been more than one year since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic.

He said during this time, citizens have been forced to restrict their interaction with each other.

“Friends and relatives have been forced to reduce person-to-person contact in keeping with the COVID-19 guidelines. Most of our children have been away from school and the company of their classmates. Social gatherings and activities have been restricted. The restrictions have come at a price. Many businesses, including small enterprises, have suffered losses. Some workers have had to be laid off. Families have suffered a loss in incomes,” he acknowledged.

He further recalled that the long Easter weekend in Guyana is usually celebrated with a lot of activities, including kite flying, family picnics, the annual Bartica Regatta, and the Rupununi Rodeo – all of which have been curtailed by the coronavirus pandemic.

But in the same breath, President Ali lauded Guyanese for having borne these deprivations and sacrifices willingly, knowing that they are in the interest of protecting their people and communities.

“I express my gratitude to all Guyanese who have committed to making the necessary sacrifices to protect our people. I also reiterate my appreciation to our frontline workers who were and still are at the forefront of keeping our people safe. Sacrifices made in the interest of others are never in vain. If we do the right things, we will derive the right results. I have no doubt that we will win the war against the pandemic.

The Easter story resonates with the hope that victory will inevitably prevail,” the President noted.

Brothers and sisters in humanity

According to Ali, Christ's selfless sacrifice should inspire persons, especially during Easter. He said Christ’s example should continue to be a source of strength during the weeks and years ahead when we must remain vigilant and disciplined.

In his message, which is also on behalf of his wife, First Lady Arya Ali, and their son Zayd, the President reminded that Easter is the most joyous season in the Christian calendar and emphasises the importance of sacrifice, forgiveness, hope and faith.

These, he said, are the primary pillars on which humanity thrive.

He cited 1 John 4:20, which states, “Whoever claims to love God, yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For who-

of humanity.

“It is our hope of a better tomorrow that must allow us to free ourselves from anger, hateful thinking, and negativity towards each other. It is our ability to seek forgiveness, but first of all, to acknowledge our mistakes. This Easter, let us come together as family and communities in peace, tolerance and hope in a future that brings us all together,” he noted.

bution of COVID-19 vaccines has given rise to some hope that the country will overcome this crisis.

“Our ultimate hope is through our undying faith and resilience this situation would change from darkness

Eventual triumph of life

President Irfaan Ali

ever does not love their brother and sister whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.”

“Indeed, we are all brothers and sisters in humanity,” Ali contended.

The Head of State went on to quote Pope Francis, who in his Good Friday address, said “To be happy is to let live the creature that lives in us, free, joyful and simple. It is to have maturity to be able to say I made mistakes, it is to have the courage to say I am sorry, it is to have the sensitivity to say I need you; it is to have the ability to say I love you.”

As such, President Ali posited that Christ’s selfless action and sacrifice must be the lesson through which everyone should selflessly act and sacrifice for the greater good

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon in this Easter message to the nation recognised that the blessed message of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, signifying life conquering death, has never been more relevant and needed given the prevailing pandemic situation in Guyana.

“At Easter, we celebrate Jesus’s resurrection – the most important event in Christianity which is the core of Jesus’s message, ministry and mission on earth. It is a celebration of hope, re-emergence and eventual triumph of life. Easter reasserts the power of hope over fear and that the dawn of daylight will come at the end of a period of darkness,” Harmon noted.

He too was cognisant that this is the second Easter being celebrated in the grips of the COVID-19 pandemic but said that the ongoing distri-

Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon

to hope, confidence and optimism. May God almighty continue to bless us as a people and direct our path. Let us maintain hope and offer comfort to each other by our positive actions and with a determined spirit, knowing that we will rise above the challenges confronting our beautiful country. I wish every Guyanese a happy, safe and peaceful Easter. I urge you to be responsible, judicious and considerate during this holiday period,” the Opposition Leader implored.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 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

Boosting home ownership

T

he Opposition scoffed when, during the campaign, the PPP declared it would be delivering 50,000 house lots during the next five years, were it to get into office.

In its previous iterations, the housing sector was one of its glowing successes, and it was not coincidental that much of that success occurred under the watch of Irfaan Ali who was then the Minister of Housing. With him becoming President on Aug 2, 2020, the promise was almost guaranteed, since he knows exactly what needs to be done.

And now, nine months later, we can see from the trajectory of house lots’ allocation that the goal is well within sight, with 3600 lots allocated between Aug 2 and Dec 31, 2020 – 600 more than had been projected. This compares with the 7089 lots allocated over the five years the APNU/ AFC coalition was in office. However, the Government is not stopping at house lots, but has set its sights on their owners becoming home owners. It has done this by encouraging easier access to loans with lower interest rates, increasing the number of institutions granting mortgages with the authorisation of the Bank of Baroda to enter the mortgage market, and reducing taxes on construction and building materials.

The NBS has been persuaded to grant loans of up to $6 million with an interest rate of four per cent; $6-12 million @ 5.9 per cent, and $12-15 million @ 6.25 per cent. This is against a background of Minister of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, introducing the Income Tax Mortgage Interest Relief back in 2013. Any individual taking out a mortgage of up to $30 million for the purchase of a home would be able to deduct the interest paid on the mortgage from their taxable income.

Immediately, homeowners will benefit significantly. Since, in the early mortgage, most of the payments are applied to interest on the mortgage, these payments would now act to raise the “non-taxable” income of the homeowner from the present $720,000 by the total interest paid for the year.

But the benefits from the Government’s overall facilitation of housing for the entire population go far beyond the tax exemption etc. One of these is that a mortgage is a form of long-term forced savings. Many persons have great difficulty in saving directly from their pay checks or wages, which is not just a problem for the individual, but for the nation. Developing countries need savings to make investments, and when individuals take out mortgages, the banks can count on a steady income stream, which can be invested. For the home owners, rather than paying rentals, they accumulate increasing equity in their houses; which, historically, has always tended to go upwards.

Home ownership also has immediate spinoff benefits for the rest of the economy, as owners seek to furnish and constantly upgrade their properties. Businesses that cater to this trade typically employ a large number of unskilled persons as well as give a boost to local manufacturers of furniture and other household goods. The NDCs can now collect rates and taxes to provide various services to the area.

But just as important are the social benefits that give families a sense of stability and security. The moment someone owns a home, the family acquires pride in home ownership, and typically sees itself as having a stake in the community. This leads to the development of social capital in the form of trust between residents. If countries do not have this kind of social capital, it is almost impossible for them to mobilise their citizens for the sacrifices a sustainable developmental thrust demand.

It is this lack of social capital which exists in inner city ghettoes that leads to the multitude of crimes and other degradations committed by residents who typically rent the hovels they live in.

The success of a developing country depends on the development of a growing middle class. And there can be no middle class unless they are facilitated to own their own homes.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall on Saturday handed over hundreds of kites to community leaders at Annandale, Foulis and Golden Grove on the East Coast of Demerara with instructions that they be distributed to children to be flown while adhering to the COVID-19 guidelines

Guyanese are delighted and grateful for int’l recognition of 2020 elections’ results Dear Editor, Easter Greetings to all Guyanese! May the hope and promise of this auspicious occasion serve to inspire the necessary moulding commitments that continue to harmonise unite our nation!

At the time of penning this article, it is one month since that faithful March 02, 2020 elections day, when our citizens demonstrated affirmatively against the mushrooming oppression of the previous PNC/APNU/AFC regime. Subsequently, our country became a spectacle of global focus, demanding the attention of the most powerful advocates of democratic rights. The final true results were affirmed only after five gruelling months, with the strong united front from local protectors of democracy and the help of the International Community.

No doubt, the strategic and constructive leadership of PPP/C General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, together with our new President Dr. Irfaan Ali, proved to be visionary. Guyana’s path is now clearer, and Guyanese are certainly delighted, happy, and grateful for the support of the US State Department, Canada, the European Community, the Commonwealth, Caricom, and other countries for their recognition of the 2020 elections’ results.

The vile nature of the PNC- led APNU/AFC cabal was on full public display as they attempted to upturn the true result of the elections.

Corroborating the clandestine operations were infiltrat-

ed elements of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), including senior administrative personnel under the control of a tainted Chief Elections Officer.

The US Human Rights report addressing the matter refers to the APNU/AFC’s blatant and contemptuous refusal to accept the results of the National and Regional Elections held on 2nd March 2020.

Further, the report condemns the APNU/AFC reaction to the passing of the successful No-Confidence Motion, and also chided the approach of the judiciary which led to the procrastination of Elections in Guyana.

Matters such as these, however, were manipulated to influence the turbulent five months in which the APNU/ AFC squatted in office as a de facto Government. During the period, the Guyanese people had to live with serious Police excesses, which led to the brutal murder of several persons. Our country became a shadow of itself under the flagrant violations, but was certainly focused on having the related attending situation resolved peacefully.

Guyana certainly set the pace regarding the peaceful approaches to struggle for free and fair elections. This, however, could not have been achieved without the tremendous support from observer missions and international organisations, and the wider diplomatic community.

Certainly, the superior leadership of Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo served as a mould, uniting

all the forces in Guyana in the struggle for free and fair elections.

Guyana must join with the world and condemn the brutal murder of peaceful protesters in Myanmar (Burma) for a similar cause.

At this juncture, the PPP/C Government must lead the mobilisations and commence consultations with the wide stakeholder groups in civil society to ensure that we put in place all the necessary electoral reforms to stop all forms of rigging.

The PPP/C must implement legislative reforms that require a simple majority in Parliament, and lead the concurrent systemic cleansing of all aspects of the electoral body. GECOM must ensure actions are taken to realign the functionality of the organisation with our constitutional ideals for acceptability.

Differentiation of roles and functional responsibilities between the GECOM Secretariat and Commission must distinctly be defined, as we can no longer risk the abusive capitalisation on vague legal interpretations.

Further, given the Guyana peculiarities, the Chairperson of GECOM must assert herself, face the reality, and cleanse GECOM of all the riggers who are before the courts for fraud.

There must be explicitly clear distinctions between the GECOM Commission and the Secretariat. Roles and responsibilities must be clearly defined, in keeping with our laws and regulations. Further, circulars,

contracts, job descriptions, and job specifications must be put in writing. Reforms must take into consideration administrative, financial, accountability, procurement, audit, as well as adjustment of disciplinary penalties to sufficiently deter all wrongdoings.

GECOM MUST put on its agenda local government elections (LGEs) scheduled for this year. Standard operational procedures have to be activated to put in place appropriately competent staff and operationalise the necessary new period of continuous registration, followed by a period of claims and objections. This will cleanse and update the Voter’s List, realising an acceptable position from which the Commission can proceed.

GECOM must get down to the serious task of employing staff who would win the trust and confidence of the nation. The training of staff must be objective, and never again be allowed to be infiltrated by the PNC cabal who have, in the past, largely employed their tugs and fraudsters. Therefore, stakeholders’ concerns with the attitude and performance of the Election Day staff must be also addressed and remedied for the successful execution of the LGEs this year.

We will forever be grateful to the US and the international community for their contribution to, and recognition of, our 2020 elections’ results.

Respectfully, Neil Kumar

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021

5

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

A response to Hamilton APNU/AFC Opposition has abdicated its responsibilities Green’s abominable Dear Editor, In a functioning democracy, the role of the Opposition is to scrutinise and hold the Government accountable for good governance. The Opposition APNU/AFC coalition, in their present form, have abdicated their responsibility of representing the people who voted for them and the remainder that continues to support them.

What is their strategy to mobilise and represent people and return to government? If this is the intention of this current outfit, then, even with 30/30 vision, this cannot be seen. During the last election, this party led their members down a rabbit hole, and from the end of that saga on to today, they are only leading their followers down a path of destruction.

In Guyana, the two major political parties draw their support from the two major ethnic blocs. While not ideal for the building of a cohesive society, this is a demographic reality that is rooted in the historical evolution of Guyana as a nation state. The difference with the APNU coalition is that they believe they have

a right to the support of the Afro-Guyanese, whether or not their representation and support is effective and productive.

In this new era, the coalition need to draw support based on effective service and genuine representation, rather than relying on ethnic insecurities. I have never been a fan of Anil Nandlall, but he made some stinging accusations of misrepresentation of the Afro Guyanese in his 2021 budget contribution, which are still to be answered by the coalition.

The so-called Leader of the PNC and coalition has disappeared since the March 2020 election, and has not even addressed the 217,000 people that voted for the coalition. Many of these voters are drawn from underprivileged and underserved Afro communities. If the coalition are serious and genuine about representation of black people, why are they silent in those areas.

Interestingly, the void is being filled by PPP Government Ministers who have demonstrated a ‘boots on the ground’ approach to communities and governance. There are examples

of them fulfilling community requests with record speed.

This is the modern age of social media and the internet, and telling people that you are entitled to their support based on their demographic circumstances will not hold water. Service to the people and tangible actions that result in human, economic, and community development will translate into support.

I am in no position to accurately pronounce on how genuine the support of the Government is for these communities, but once people receive tangible support and see real development in their communities, the pendulum will swing away from the coalition to the Government.

It is even further noteworthy that the coalition followed up with some action after one of their MPs alleged assault at the hands of a Government Minister, and another former official under that administration was arrested for alleged misconduct. The opposition coalition MPs’ actions after these events showed their true colours when it comes to the representation of people.

Suddenly they were no longer paper tigers and a press statement Opposition, but they swung into action.

So obsessed were they with the defence of their MP that they danced and shouted in the Parliament while abdicating their responsibility to scrutinise the budget estimates, and ensure that the same Afro-Guyanese communities were receiving their fair share of the national pie.

Is it that you are entitled to representation and protest action only when you occupy/occupied high and favoured office? It was a shameful display of favouring elites over the rank-andfile supporters and ordinary black people.

The nature of Guyana’s ethnic structure and the insecurities require a strong advocate for Afro-Guyanese, who form the major political bloc that do not support the Government. The Opposition is sacrificing this genuine representation on the altar of personal advancement.

Yours truly, Jerrick Rutherford

Mental health/suicide prevention app Dear Editor, Once again, the Minister of Human Services and Social Security has shown what is possible with political will, by launching a mobile application to assist in the mandate to eliminate violence and abuse across Guyana.

According to Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud, the gender-based violence referral application would be available on all android devices, and is in the process of being approved for the iOS app

store.

Now that way forward has been paved, perhaps the Ministry of Health could follow suit with a similar app for suicide prevention. In fact, a local NGO has been lobbying for this for years now. This could be a standalone app, or a mental health app that includes suicide prevention.

As well, both Ministers Dr. Persaud and Dr. Anthony could collaborate with Minister Priya Manickchand to tackle sui-

cide and abuse at the school level.

The Trinidad & Tobago media recently reported, “THE (T&T) Ministry of Education will soon start testing an online tool to test pupils for depression…” This is certainly a tool that these three Ministers can give consideration to test, set up, and include in both apps.

In like manner perhaps links to some of the many online self-esteem questionnaires can be included, along with information let-

ting users know what they can do if the tests show they may be suffering from low self-esteem.

Additionally, the Ministers and/or their Ministries should find a way to include access to coping skills and resilience delivery via the apps, since lack of coping skills and resilience significantly impacts both abuse and suicide, as well as mental health in general.

decision letter

Dear Editor, Reference is made to letter captioned “Abominable decision to lease part of Merriman Mall for parking” (Apr 1) by Mr. Hamilton Green, former Mayor. It is noted that the entire City Council, controlled and dominated by members of Mr. Green’s party, APNU+AFC, gave unanimous approval for use of the space in question. Not all of Merriman Mall is used for parking, but just a portion. In fact, most of it remains used by the public.

Parking is a major problem in the city. There are countless businesses around the area of the Merriman Mall.

There is not enough parking space to meet the demands of those businesses. What is the harm done in leasing land to a private developer for parking for his business? This will free up parking spaces for the other businesses in the area – like Bakewell, other restaurants, vehicle service stations, car repair shops, other small businesses, etc.

Mr. Green describes the conversion of the space as an abomination. Was it an abomination that, when he was Mayor, he granted city space to build a huge pharmacy on Mandela Ave? Was it an abomination when he built a house on a city reserve on Mandela Avenue, opposite East La Penitence Police Station, for his daughter?

And how about the granting of land space to Guynaz, near Bourda Market, to expnd his operations almost onto the road? He also gave permission to fruit stalls on the eastern side of Church Street to sell on the parapet. It still happens till now. Is that not an abomination?

Has Mr. Green forgotten that his administration un-

der his tenure as mayor ran the dirtiest city? How come he talks of a clean garden city now? When he was in charge of the city, it was okay to use Merriman Mall for a variety of purposes, but now it is not okay. Did he not take City Council reserve land and lease or sold it to others? Did Lloyd Singh get City reserve land to conduct business?

What is the point in questioning the productive use of the Merriman Mall land for parking? The land at Merriman Mall that is used for parking for the hotel business has been unoccupied for a long period. It was abandoned and left undeveloped for years, including during Green’s tenure as Mayor. It is not in productive use.

The City Council had an application for innovative use to reduce parking and traffic congestion, and it has decided to put it to productive use.

Is that not making the city green, or turning it into a garden city?

The City Council acted sensibly in leasing the land to a private developer. It has done the same thing that Green did when he was Mayor for two decades. Green has failed to understand economics since he left the Council.

The parking would create jobs and the land would be maintained; it would be kept clean.

The parking would help to sustain some 300 jobs related to the hotel and other businesses in the area. Mr. Green should pay heed to economics and sound business practices, as well as sanitation, before writing these kinds of negative comments.

Yours truly, Nigel James Bagotstown

SATURDAY, APRIL 3, 2021

Sincerely, Annan Boodram

LOTTERY NUMBERS D

10 11 13 14 19 22 28

FREE TICKET

Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

03 04 06 11 26 LUCKY 3

0

6

6

6

Afternoon Draw

1

9

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

09

10

13 14

PAY DAY

17 20 21 SUPER PAY DAY FRIDAY, MARCH 26, 2021

01 09 13 15 17 13

02 07 08 09 16

DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

6

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021

Page

Foundation

7

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

8 NEWS

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Businessman dies after colliding with ambulance

T

he brother of wellknown businessman Stanley Ming was on Thursday afternoon killed in an accident that involved an ambulance along the JB Singh Road and Thomas Lands, Georgetown.

Samuel Collin Ming, 67, owner of Ming’s Products and Services of Delhi Street, Prashad Nagar, died while receiving treatment at the Georgetown Public Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

It was reported that the accident occurred at about 14:15h on Thursday and involved an ambulance

Dead: Samuel Ming

attached to the Health Ministry bearing registration number PVV 7693,

and motorcycle CE 614 ridden by Ming.

The ambulance driver reportedly told Police that he was proceeding north along Irving Street at about 45kmph with siren wailing and honking his horn but as he was crossing the intersection of JB Singh and Thomas Road, the motorcycle collided with the rear right side of the ambulance.

As a result of the collision, Ming fell onto the roadway and sustained injuries about his body. He was picked up in a conscious state by EMT and

taken to the hospital where he was admitted a patient.

A breathalyser test was later conducted on the driver of the ambulance but no trace of alcohol was found in his system.

Meanwhile, Police confirmed that Ming took his last breath at about 13:45h on Friday. His body is presently at the GPHC mortuary awaiting post-mortem.

Meanwhile, on Saturday Guyana Times visited the dead man’s family, but they were still in shock and did not offer a comment. The Police are still investigating the fatal accident.

An eye for an eye…

Y

…will make everyone blind our Eyewitness felt very sad this Good Friday. And no, it’s not because of its religious rationale; after all, he’s assured the day is “good” because it gives even a dissolute wretch like yours truly a chance to redeem himself before he croaks. Kind of a “get out of hell card”, no? His sorrows are about the latest development in the Henry cousins’ - Joel and Isaiah - murder in West Berbice. The arrest of Mark, aka “Chipsman”, the 24-year-old brother of Joel, for the murder of his neighbour, 68-year-old Deochand, aka “Sarjie.”

What makes it especially poignant is that, just a year ago, Chipsman wouldn’t even have addressed Sarjie without a respectful “Uncle” prefix. That’s how it used to be in those once bucolic, anonymous villages on the way to Berbice.

Even though they might’ve each been dominated by either African or Indian Guyanese, some were mixed, and all got along with each other. Remember the reaction of Isaiah’s father after his murder?

While some may think that it’s the murders that have now irretrievably changed the W Berbice villages…that’s only the edge of a massive, dark cloud that has descended over them. And this is all due to the rhetoric of the PNC in general, and of Granger and Harmon in particular, when they went to supposedly “comfort” the distraught families.

Without a scintilla of evidence, they brought a political nexus into the tragic killings, and in the context of Guyana, that meant “race”.

Even though another youth - this time the Indian boy Haresh Singh - was later murdered, the PNC and their supporters raised an international hue and cry about “justice for the Henrys”, castigating the authorities for dragging their feet, and raising the ire of relatives like Chipsman. After demanding that the Government fund him, an Argentinian forensic archaeologist was brought, even though his specialty - DNA identification of unidentified bodies - wasn’t needed. This raised feelings of injustice even further.

Even after the Police arrested and remanded three suspects, the PNC and their camp followers maintained their skepticism. The drumbeats demanding “justice” continued unabated, and by now it has become like a Greek Tragedy, where you know that something horrible’s going to happen, but you just don’t know when. And the “when” is now.

The pressures on young Chipsman must’ve been immense. His brother and cousin were horribly killed, he was assured by his leaders that it was racially motivated and scapegoats were arrested. And the Police had picked up Sagie, but released him.

So what if it’s almost impossible for a 68-year-old pensioner to fire chops to almost sever the heads of those poor kids?

Tragedies never end well. …if you work on Good Friday One of the charms of living in Guyana - the land of six peoples - is that we inherited a lot of stories and superstitions. And sometimes it’s pretty difficult to keep them apart! Good Friday is one of those days of the year that generated all sorts of stories in Christian countries.

And the one that’s most prevalent in Guyana is that you absolutely SHOULDN’T WORK on Good Friday!

This probably arose from the exhortation for Christians to spend the day reflecting on the significance of Jesus’s crucifixion on this day. But it was highly unlikely that our planters were particularly pious - except for “saving the souls” of the poor Africans by enslaving and working them to death, of course! In that they were most diligent! But, more prosaically, it was likely that with accidents in the fields or factories occurring with greater frequency on Good Friday, correlation became causation.

Of the 30 countries designating Good Friday a public holiday, half of them are in the Caribbean! …and another vaccine for the virus Well, the Sputnik has landed! Not the Sputnik I - the first satellite launched successfully into space and left the Americans red faced - but Sputnik-V, the Russian-made COVID-19 vaccine.

Will the Americans now respond and share some of their vaccines?

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

9

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

10

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

11

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Silenced progressive Indian voices

O

ne of the challenges facing the Indian-Guyanese community is a stereotypical, essentialised perception by other groups. One often wonders who is it that is being addressed in some exchanges. Take the charges of “backward” Indian-Guyanese use in their “exclusivist categories of caste” to denigrate African-Guyanese.

It is forgotten that” Indian Guyanese” are not monolithic.

The records of Indentured Labourers show about 14% were Muslims - who certainly had rejected notions of caste, even in India. The remaining Hindus were broken down into roughly the same percentages of caste that were then prevalent in India - about 12% “upper castes Brahmins and Kshatriyas; 39% agricultural/artisan “middle castes”, and 33% Labourer “low castes”. The majority of non-upper castes certainly had no incentive to perpetuate caste distinctions.

These distinctions, however, had started to disintegrate in the depots while a shipload was accumulated.

This disintegrating process Ravi Dev intensified during the threemonth journey on the ships (Jahaj) as bonds of “Jahaji Bhais and Bahins” (ship brothers and sisters) were forged.

These lifelong ties across castes and genders were maintained during their sojourn on the plantations: their children, for instance, were not allowed to marry each other.

On these plantations, all persons - irrespective of caste origins - were compelled to perform the same types of labour.

“Low castes” assigned as “drivers” over other castes further erased caste distinctions. Then, again, even before the end of Indenture, the Arya Samaj Hindu reform movement had spread across North India and influenced some of the immigrants. The 10 principles of Arya Samaj rejected image-based worship, rejected the caste system, encouraged education for women, and accepted them as Panditas (Priestesses), along with other social reforms.

In Guyana, starting from 1911, several Arya Samaj missionaries spent time in Guyana - especially Professor Bashkaranand between 1937 and 1945 - and initiated a trenchant debate on caste and the position of women in the Hindu community. By the end of his mission, fully 10% of Hindus had become Arya Samajists - with several high profile “Brahmins”, especially from the East Coast Demerara, being among them. But, more importantly, the remaining traditional “Sanaatani Hindus” were given a vocabulary to reject the remnants of the hereditary caste system that had been retained by some “Pandits”. They had benefited in the diaspora from the expansion of the traditional role of the Purohit, the Brahmin who performed the sixteen sacraments from birth to death. Today, the vast majority of pandits are “non-Brahmins”, with no incentive to retain the traditional caste system.

The work of the Arya Samaj also gave a new impetus to Hindu girls fulfilling their potential in the modern world by embracing education, which opened up new vistas for them.

During indentureship, because of the mandated need to recruit women, a fair percentage came of their own volition for any number of reasons, but, in each case, demonstrated an agency for which they are not generally credited. On the plantations, they were much sought after because they greatly outnumbered men long after the end of indentureship.

My maternal great-grandmother, Sanichari, for instance, born in 1873, had a son named Banka with an immigrant who has not been identified. She separated from Banka and married my great-grandfather Rambishun in 1895, and my Nana who raised me was born in 1896. But she refused the life of unremitting work Rambishun embarked on after finishing his re-indentureship in 1898, which included a farm in Canal, a farm at De Willem, and “rice beds” at Zeeburg. She left Rambishun with their three sons and lived alone in the logies at Uitvlugt with her grandson from her first son, Banka. It is family lore that “she wore shoes and liked to dress up”. She certainly displayed agency.

But while there was a reinstitutionalisation of some paternalistic structures with the equalisation of numbers between the sexes, progress continued to be made by Indian women through their own efforts. Women were involved in every strike on the plantations where workers were shot and killed. Unilateral, parental-arranged weddings became a thing of the past, and Indian women started to chart their own course in the world on their own terms. Yet, in deploying caste as a weapon, the stereotype of the passive Indian-Guyanese woman who were even more “backward” than her male counterpart remains, just because they have retained some aspects of Indian culture.

That there can be multiple modernities is rejected.

12

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

13

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

14 NEWS

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Boat captain nabbed with almost 6lbs cocaine at Bartica

A

boat captain who plies the Parika-Bartica route was on Friday taken into custody after a quantity of cocaine was found in the haversack he was carrying.

Based on reports received, a team of Police ranks were performing duties at the Bartica Stelling when the captain arrived on a passenger boat from Parika. As such, he was detained and taken to Bartica Police Station where a search was conducted on a dark blue haversack that he was carrying at the time.

During the search, four black plastic bags containing 22 smaller transparent plastic bags with several pieces of whitish rocklike substances were unearthed.

The cocaine that was found in the haversack belonging to the boat captain

The cocaine was reportedly weighed in his presence and amounted to 2 kilograms, 609 grams. In light of the discovery, the suspect was arrested, cautioned and admitted that he had collected the illegal substance from a “Red Man” at Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), and was expected to deliver same to someone in Bartica.

Based on that bit of information, the Police also arrested the person whose name was provided by the cocaine trafficker as the intended receiver. The person has since denied the allegation.

Both men remain in Police custody as investigations continue.

CAPACITY-BUILDING TO INCREASE KNOWLEDGE ABOUT INDIGENOUS PEOPLES AND TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE

T

he Darwin Initiative project, ‘Integrating traditional knowledge into national policy and practices’, has been building capacity in Indigenous communities to have a deeper understanding of the issues and solutions for traditional knowledge, and to have greater voice and representation within the management of biodiversity and protected areas. Equally important has been the project’s efforts to build capacity at the decision-making level.

Communication between Indigenous communities and decision-makers has always been a challenge – sometimes simply related to logistics, or the lack of cultural understanding and language barriers.

More so, being often marginalised due to poverty or educational status, many may not believe that Indigenous communities would have much to contribute to decisionmaking processes. Well, as we have highlighted in the previous articles, this certainly is not the case. Indigenous peoples possess unique values, knowledge, and understanding of their lands and biodiversity. They have, and can make, meaningful contributions, if given the opportunity.

It is therefore necessary for Government agencies, especially staff at all levels that engage with, or support Amerindian communities in, their work, to have training. This needs to focus on topics, including the challenges faced by communities, good examples of collaboration, methods of engagement, and local/international legislation and policies that support the rights of Indigenous people and that call for better inclusion in decision-making processes.

Under the Darwin Initiative project, such a training course was developed and piloted in February 2019.

The training was well received, and participants from agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency, Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission, Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, Guyana Forestry Commission, and Centre for the Study of Biological Diversity concluded that the course provided a much greater understanding of how to work with Indigenous peoples. They expressed an increased appreciation for consultation with Amerindian villages through video-mediated dialogues by the application of participatory video techniques. A training manual and other course resources will be available for use in providing training to professionals within all governmental agencies and others organisations to use for building the capacity of their staff in this area.

Additionally, a consolidated database of all publications, videos and other related records associated with Amerindians in Guyana would help to recognise the contribution of traditional knowledge to conservation, and allow for better analysis and reporting on progress with respect to traditional knowledge and efforts to safeguard its use. Having easier access to such resources or details on whom to contact (in the case of sensitive information) can ensure that new research and projects are aimed at improving and building on work that has already been done.

In next week’s article, we will continue to share with you information based on a drafted Traditional Knowledge National Action Plan (TKNAP) for Guyana. If you would like to learn more about some of the work that has been done by the project in communities, please visit the following website: https://cobracollective.org/tag/darwin/. Also, how do you feel about traditional knowledge and the role it plays in conservation? What do you think about a Traditional Knowledge National Action Plan for Guyana? Please share your thoughts via 592 650 6632 (WhatsApp or SMS only).

Additionally, you can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O ECEA Programme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

15

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

A contextual financial analysis of the gas-toshore project (Part 3)

A

(Continuing from last week)

dditionally, apart from good governance and strong political leadership and stability, which is a given to achieve these goals, Guyana needs to address its human capital deficit, infrastructure deficit and high energy cost. By addressing these issues, these of itself can be pioneer developmental strategies wherein Guyana leads the regional integration agenda. Guyana does not only have oil as its attractiveness to foreign investors and underpinning its geopolitical importance, but it is also endowed with an abundance of natural resources including arable agricultural land and potable water. The Caribbean Community alone imports US$ 10 billion in food annually, a significantly important market where Guyana can tap into the opportunity to supply these markets. As a strategy to bridge the human capital deficit gap, a structured immigration policy can be put in place to attract the skills and expertise needed to advance the country’s development agenda through these regional associations as well.

There is also the need for regional capital market development; the need for creative tools and innovative financial products that will align with these development goals for the region need to be examined from a regional and global perspective. As a region and a sub-continent together, the Political Leaders of South American countries need to start examining the need for a South American Development Bank to focus on large scale development projects in the member states. In the long term as well, the need to connect the continent through the construction of railways would be necessary if the leaders of South America are serious about deepened integration of the continent and to cement its role in regional integration in order to conduct business with the rest of the world. To this end, Guyana can become a regional hub for shipping and commerce, mirroring the Dubai and /or the Panama model.

It is against these backgrounds, and the high level of investors’ confidence, both local and foreign, that Guyana’s development outlook is extremely positive. These developments have strategically positioned Guyana to lead a regional integration agenda aimed at strengthening South-South cooperation in South America, Latin America and the Caribbean through the auspices of CARICOM and the other regional trading bloc, inter alia, leveraging the country’s development needs. In these respects, Guyana could become the leader in the region to drive these objectives within the framework of a regional integration agenda.

Natural gas Natural gas is defined as gas obtained from a natural underground reservoir. It generally contains a large quantity of methane along with heavier hydrocarbons such as ethane, propane, isobutane and normal butane. In the raw state, it also contains considerable amounts of non-hydrocarbons, such as nitrogen, hydrogen suiphide and carbon dioxide. Natural gas is generally used for electric power generation for residential, industrial and commercial use. It is also used as cooking and heating fuel. Of the three fossil fuels used for electric power generation (coal, oil and natural gas), natural gas emits the least carbon dioxide per unit of energy produced. It emits 30% less carbon dioxide than burning oil and 45% less carbon dioxide than burning coal. Burning natural gas also releases lower amounts of nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, particulates and mercury when compared to coal. There are a number of other uses of natural gas in the production of raw materials, for example in manufacturing processes.

Natural gas potential in the Caribbean Citing an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) study on ten selected countries in the Caribbean (Guyana included), 74 % of energy demand is met by oil products. The study titled “unveiling natural gas opportunities in the Caribbean”, concluded that the selected countries can develop a gas market by importing Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) or through pipelines. Notably, this study was done in April, 2019, well before Guyana’s natural gas potential was known. It therefore means that this recommendation can be reversed – that is, instead of the selected countries forming a gas market to import LNG from the U.S; Guyana, Suriname, and Trinidad & Tobago can form a regional gas market to export LNG within the Caribbean market. This would certainly be a worthwhile study to now explore given the turn in events.

The study further concluded that the supply options for gas pipelines and LNG are complementary and do not substitute each other. Nevertheless, LNG is likely to be the preferred technology since the results point it as the cheapest technical option to deliver natural gas to the Caribbean. Furthermore, the IDB study noted that LNG is a more mature technology that is technically feasible for all nearly all countries (IDB, 2019). The LNG market may be developed under at least three alternatives that involve individual projects and regional integration.

Individual and regional integration projects are the most feasible in the short and medium term. A natural gas market organized by a distribution hub would allow the maximum number of countries to buy LNG at the lowest price possible. The array would maximize the environmental benefits and reduction in electricity prices for all countries. Moreover, a distribution hub would likely lead to the lowest natural gas prices for all off takers. Aligning off takers incentives might help coordinate timing and contract for natural gas supply, although these steps will still be difficult (IDB, 2019).

16

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

17

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

350lbs ganja found at Coomacka backlands P

olice acting on information received carried out an operation at Old England, Coomacka Mines Backlands, Demerara River, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice), on Friday during which 350 pounds of ganja was unearthed.

Police stated that on the day in question at about 12:00h, they were making their way to the location when they observed an unidentified man riding a motorcycle heading in the same direction.

However, upon seeing the ranks, the man reportedly dropped the motorcycle and ran into the nearby bushes. Thinking something was

The motorcycle that was left behind by the man who escaped after seeing the Police

amiss, the Police ranks conducted a search in the area and about 250 yards from where the motorcycle was dropped, a large quantity of ganja was found.

The dried plants were wrapped in three tarpaulins about 40 feet from each other. The dried plants ranged from two feet to five feet in height with an estimated

The cannabis that was found during the operation

weight of 350 pounds.

The plants were destroyed by fire while the motorcycle and samples were taken to Mackenzie Police

Station where they were lodged. Investigations are ongoing.

This discovery comes less than two days after three

cannabis fields were found and destroyed at Saint Lust, Berbice River.

It was reported that the eradication exercise commenced at about 06:30h and lasted for several hours.

During the operation, about 40,000 grown cannabis plants were found in a 13acre field along with 1000 plants in a nursery. In addition, some 50,000 seeds were also unearthed in a camp that was found on these farms.

Further, two 12-gauge shotgun cartridges along with 40lbs of dried cannabis were found. Three men were arrested and are being processed for court.

18

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

19

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

20

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

21

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Body of drowned teenager recovered among some rocks a short distance from where he went under the water and never resurfaced.

Guyana Times was told that the now dead teen and seven of his friends went on an outing at a friend’s house at Onderneeming. There, they reportedly cooked and hung out for a while after which they went for a swim at the nearby beach.

It was reported that the teenagers were swimming

The body of the teenager moments after it was recovered by his father

T

he body of 15-year-old Adyemi Azeez, who went missing during an outing with friends on Thursday, was on Saturday morning pulled from the Essequibo River.

Azeez, of Johanna Cecilia, Essequibo Coast (Pomeroon-Supenaam), reportedly disappeared while swimming at the Onderneeming Beach.

His body was discovered

Body of 97-year-old woman found floating in creek

T

he body of 97-year-old Inda Matthews was on Thursday found floating in a nearby creek at Kariko Village, North West District (NWD), in an advanced state of decomposition.

The body was found by the Toshao, Lynbert Henry, at about 16:30h, a few hours after a formal report was made to the Police that

the woman was missing.

Upon discovery, the body was identified and reported to the Acquero Police Station via cellular phone.

Due to the decomposed state of the body and the terrain, relatives were advised to bury the body with a view of having an exhumation done for the post-mortem examination.

in the rough waters and due to the oceanic current, the lads were pulled further into the river.

Upon realising their plight, Azeez and his friends called out for assistance.

The other friends who were on land reportedly went to their rescue and were able to pull three of them to safety but Azeez disappeared under the murky water.

The incident was reported to the Suddie Police

Dead: Adyemi Azeez

Station and after several hours of searching, the teen’s body was discovered.

The dead teen’s mother, Deborah Azeez, related that her son would go on regular outings with his friends.

“I didn’t know this would have been his last,” the devasted woman, who was still in shock, stated.

His body was taken to the Suddie Hospital Mortuary and is awaiting a post-mortem.

22

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

23

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Child sexual abuse a concern in Region 1 – Police Commander Mandall — says other serious crimes on the decline

Superintendent Khalid Mandall, Director of the Police Corporate Communications Unit Mark Ramotar, his Deputy Stan Gouveia and others at the meeting

R

egion One Police C o m m a n d e r , Superintendent Khalid Mandall has reported that crime is on the decline in Mabaruma and other sub-districts within the region despite an influx of Venezuelan migrants.

Only recently, several cases of child sexual molestation were reported to have occurred in the region.

The victims are girls below the age of 16.

On this note, Mandall said that is a concern for the Police but noted that he has taken a no-nonsense and proactive approach to tackle the issue.

It was reported that within the past month, several cases of sexual abuse of minors were reported in Region One (BarimaWaini).

Due to the obvious challenges and difficul-

ties associated with monitoring and traversing the expansive terrain with limited resources, Commander Mandall said his team has been involved in a number of community initiatives aimed at building trust.

The Commander made these remarks during a meeting with the Director of the Police Corporate Communications Unit (CCU), Mark Ramotar, his Deputy Stan Gouveia and other ranks from the unit.

The meeting was held in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) for Region One. “A lot of time(s), perception can be viewed as reality…every policeman and woman are PRO agents in their own right,” Mandall asserted while giving assurance of his team’s full support to the CCU’s push

to improve and accentuate the face and image of the Guyana Police Force.

The Commander - along with his Deputy Mark Vigilance and administrative team highlighted a number of issues inclusive of the formation of community policing and youth groups in the various districts.

Additionally, Mandall spoke of the challenges faced by the Police in the division which include domestic violence, statutory rape and child abuse.

In an effort to curb this behaviour, sensitisation campaigns are being done by the Commander and his team in the form of lectures within the communities.

Ramotar and Gouveia applauded the Commander and his team for bringing these issues to the fore so that attention and assistance can be provided.

24

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

25

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

26

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

27

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

28 FEATURE

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

COVID-19 pandemic changed the way Essequibians celebrate Easter T

he novel coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) hit the world over a year ago. This is the second Easter holiday since the pandemic and in Guyana, a lot has changed since then.

At the height of the pandemic, last year, there were much stricter guidelines in place that prevented congregating and confined persons to their homes.

However, this year much

of that has been relaxed, nevertheless, there are still gathering guidelines and closure of popular spots.

In Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Easter is a time when everyone comes together to celebrate. It is a time when many Christians worldwide celebrate with special church services, music, candlelight, flowers and the ringing of church bells.

In Guyana, there are no

limits to the religious holiday and it is celebrated by everyone.

The Easter holiday celebrates the belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In the New Testament of the Bible, the event is said to have occurred three days after Jesus was crucified by the Romans and died, roughly, in 30 AD. The holiday concludes the “Passion of Christ,” a series of events and holFlashback – An Essequibo man excited to raise his kite

idays that begins with Lent - a 40-day period of fasting, prayer and sacrifice and ends with Holy Week, which includes Holy Thursday (the celebration of Jesus’ Last Supper with his 12 Apostles, also known as “Maundy Thursday”), Good Friday (when Jesus’ crucifixion is observed) and Easter Sunday.

Although a holiday of high religious significance in the Christian faith,

COVID-19 pandemic, the National COVID-19 Task Force Secretariat stated that in light of health and safety concerns, it was necessary to implement some restrictions to the traditional celebration.

They further mentioned that these guide- l i n e s are intended to allow for limited

Children of Capoey compound happy to raise their kites

many traditions associated with Easter date back to pre-Christian, pagan times.

In Essequibo, it is evident that many non-Christians choose to observe these traditions while essentially ignoring the religious aspects of the celebration. The celebration has proven to be one of the unifying ones in Guyana and in Essequibo, it is no different. It is a day when people put aside their prejudices and just take part in the celebration of the risen saviour.

This year, the celebration is somewhat different from the past years.

Regarding the continuing concerns in relation to the

participation in the Easter activities while maintaining the sanctity of the religious holiday.

Christians will still be lucky to observe the religious celebration but in a more conservative manner while adhering to all COVID-19 guidelines. In Essequibo, churches will be involved in religious services and feasting and also the raising of kites that signify the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Churches are only allowed to operate at 40 per cent capacity and church members are encouraged to utilise their outdoor spaces, where available.

TURN TO PAGE 32

FEATURE

29

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

According to Beckles, this requires precision because it determines if the kite will balance or fly.

Following this step, what is called a “tongue” is then added to the kite to make it sing when it is in the air. A tail made from cloth or rope and extra twine making a “baller” is then added.

After that, your “star point” kite is finished and ready to fly.

Just after demonstrating to the Sunday Times how this Guyanese traditional kite is made, Beckles gave some tips that will enhe tradition of kite flying in Guyana is second to none because of the pride that goes with kites during the Easter season. Around this time, kites are the star of the show.

Not just any kite, but the traditional Guyanese kite better known as the “star point kite” or the “singing engine kite”.

John Beckles, who made kites throughout his childhood, went through the steps with the Sunday Times on how to make the famous “star point kite”.

According to Beckles, you first gather your mate-

added.

A shorter piece of wood will then be nailed to the framed kite, giving it more shape to the front. Pieces of bamboo will then be cut into thin pieces so that they will be flexible enough to bend without breaking. The thin piece of bamboo is then placed at the front top half of the kite, giving it a round shape to the front.

After completing this step, the “most difficult part”, according to Beckles, is making a star on the kite.

This step is done using the thread, wrapping it around the inner part of the framed kite in the shape of a star. You then use your

rials. These are softwood, small pieces of bamboo, nails, kite paper or greaseproof paper, paste or “gamma” cherry, a mini saw, thread, twine, and scissors.

Once you have gotten your materials, you then nail the pieces of softwood together and then cut them to the size that best suits you. Following that step, you then use your mini saw and make grooves to the end of each piece of wood to put your thread. Adding the thread to the wood will then frame the kite and give it a star shape.

Small holes are then made at the top and bottom of each piece of wood.

According to Beckles, this will help to support the top half of the kite and will be the areas where the twine and tail of the kite will be

glue or gamma cherry and place it on all of the twine and thread.

After this, you use your kite paper or greaseproof paper, and place it on the frame of the kite. This part also requires a lot of patience, according to Beckles.

The inner star is first covered.

Using a razor blade, you then cut out the excess pieces, and then cover the outer parts of the kite using more kite paper. The wings of the kite are then added. This better known as the “frills”.

According to the kite maker, it is added at the side of the kite and helps to balance the kite when it is in the air.

Twine is then added in the holes that were previously made on the kite, and then loops are made.

By La’Wanda McAllister

T

sure you have the perfect “star point” kite.

“The weight of the wood is very important. It has to be light wood or the kite will not fly. You also have to ensure that the head [the front of the kite] is not too big and bulky because that too can add weight and the kite will not fly. Be careful also with the size of the twine and the tail because that too will add weight to the kite and it will not fly,” he said.

Kite flying in Guyana continues to be the hallmark of Easter, and despite

the COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to see kites dotting the sky.

Its significance ranges beyond the religious scope and has now become a Guyanese culture for the young and old to participate in. In fact, Easter is a time when the entire country is buzzing with excitement and people from all walks of life culminate to engage in the festivities. From big ones to plastic “bird” kites, there is always something for everyone and the holiday has formed part of the unifying fabric in Guyana.

30 FEATURE

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Childhood memories of kites and making and raising a caddy ole punch

By Lakhram Bhagirat

I

t is a rite of passage that almost every 90s kid received a sound scolding from their parents for ripping the pages out of their school books to make a Caddy Ole Punch around Easter time.

I can still hear my mother screaming at my sisters and I after we ripped out several pages from our exercise books, tore off the ends of our bedsheets and stole spools of thread from our grandmother to make kites. The kite of

choice was always the trusty Caddy Ole Punch that took two minutes to make, five minutes to make the “loops” and another 5-10 minutes to raise.

Growing up in the typical countryside meant that we had large open spaces to run and fly our kites. We would spend hours in the scorching sun, not caring about the sunburns, running through sugarcane fields with our Caddy Ole Punch in tow.

Although it was over two decades ago, I still remem-

ber sneaking away with my grandmother’s pointer broom and several spools of her thread to satisfy the obsession we had with the famous Caddy.

We can never forget the thrashing we got for the ripped-up bedsheets to make the tails for our kites.

There were always healthy competitions among us to prove that we had the kite that mounted the highest, had the most pull and “whine the best”. I do not think I ever won one of those

competitions, sadly.

You see, the thing is my father was perhaps the best kite maker in our village, and many of the residents would come to “Uncle Michael’s” house for him to frame a kite or help them uniquely paste it. He mastered the art of making men, women, birds, boxes and other unique kites out of pointers.

You would know Easter is around the corner when there are residents on their bicycles frequenting our home in hopes of my father agreeing

to frame or paste a kite for them.

I learnt, by observing, how to make kites but never really mastered the art of “starpoint” and loop making.

Without a doubt, every kite my father made would soar to unimaginable heights and remain there for most of the day and well into the night. There are even stories of the kites he made being airborne for days and many know those stories.

The elaborate kites were never my thing as I am more on the simplistic side of things. It means that the intricate kites created by my father did not appeal to me.

I thoroughly enjoyed the days of my Easter vacation running in the sugarcane fields of my neighbour, getting covered in soot but having a ball of a time running behind our good old Caddy.

The Caddy Ole Punch is one of the kites that have sentimental value to a lot of Guyanese.

I think that the Caddy Ole Punch is perhaps the first kite every Guyanese child learns to make. It is simple and requires the least effort.

As a child, I used to arm myself with the pages from my exercise book, two pieces of “pointer” and my thread, then the creation of a masterpiece begins. The process is quite simple since all it involves is the marking of an X to cover the paper and using the “pointer” to thread along the line and voila, you have a kite.

The trick, however, is not in how you make the kite rather it all rests in the loop. Any veteran kite maker would tell you that no matter how pretty your kite looks, if the loop is not properly made, then you might as well just retire that thing as a showpiece.

The art of loop making is not something one can get in a jiffy rather it requires expert skills and patience. It takes many trials and errors before one can conquer the art and make a loop that would ensure your Caddy soared to unprecedented heights and stay there all night.

However, not only is the perfect loop required to ensure a successful Caddy rather the secret of your success lies in the tail. The tail, which is the star of the show, should be as graceful as a ballerina’s attitude. It should be flowing like when Eminem spits verses. In other words, it must be a talented tail and preferably made of cotton or polyester.

Though the Caddy Ole Punch is an iconic part of Easter celebrations, the tradition of making them is dying and rapidly so. The generation now, despite knowing of the famous kite, seems disinterested in partaking in its creation.

Overall, as time progresses, the younger generation is moving away from the actual flying of the kite to the more ornamental aspects of Easter Monday celebrations and that is the decking out in extravagant clothing and hanging with friends taking unlimited selfies.

Although Easter is about the sacrifices of Jesus Christ, the kite flying is somewhat cultural since it has no significance to Christianity. Rather, kite flying is an ancient past time of the Chinese people and is believed to be incorporated in the Caribbean culture because of their arrival to this part of the world.

The Caddy Ole Punch is a symbolism of a time when simplicity mattered. The Caddy c a m e about, according to many, as a substitute since parents were unable to afford the more extravagant kites during a time when resources were scarce to come by.

However, it has now become a part of the fabric of our society and those who grew up in that era reminisce on the fun they had running through the fields raising their kites.

NEWS

31

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

T

his Easter will mark the second one since the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) shook the world and it is showing no signs of slowing down in spite of the advancements made in the battle against the virus.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) informs that coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more

been put in place. Among those protocols are limited gatherings and social distancing. The Government has also imposed a curfew from 22:30h to 04:00h.

Easter is one of the holidays that serves as a binder for all Guyanese across all religious and ethnic backgrounds.

One of the things that makes us quintessential Guyanese is the fact that we are closely knitted and it would take a lot of pres-

severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERSCoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV).

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a new strain that was discovered in 2019 that had not been previously identified in humans. Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people.

Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, the infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, and even death.

In Guyana, it is just over a year since the first case of COVID-19 was recorded and ever since, a number of guidelines have

sure to even attempt to wear that thin.

Easter is perhaps one of the most anticipated holidays in Guyana for the mere fact that it encourages social gatherings. Hundreds would congregate at the various churches for Easter Mass after which they would venture to the various parks, beaches or seawalls to fly their kites and spend time bonding with family and friends.

The core of Easter Monday celebration in Guyana is the fact that it revolves around large gatherings.

With Easter being one of the fundamental pillars in Christianity, this year the celebrations would have to be done quite uniquely.

Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus from the tomb

on the third day after his crucifixion. Easter is the fulfilled prophecy of the Messiah who would be persecuted, die for our sins, and rise on the third day. Remembering the resurrection of Jesus is a way to renew daily hope that we have victory over sin. According to the New Testament, Easter is three days after the death of Jesus on the cross.

Easter follows a period of fasting called Lent, in which many churches set aside time for repentance

and remembrance. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Good Friday, the day of Jesus' crucifixion. The 40-day period was established by Pope Gregory 1 using the 40-day pattern of Israel, Moses, Elijah and Jesus' time in the wilderness.

The week leading up to Easter is called The Holy Week, or "Passion Week", and includes Palm Sunday (the day Jesus entered Jerusalem and was celebrated), Maundy Thursday (the "Last

Supper" where Jesus met with his disciples to observe Passover), and Good Friday (when Jesus would be crucified on the cross).

Easter is a very significant date within Christianity and is the foundation of the Christian faith. Jesus, the Son of God, fulfilled prophecy and through his death, has given the gift of eternal life in heaven to those who believe in his death and resurrection.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 33

32 NEWS

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

COVID-19 pandemic changed the way...

FROM PAGE 28

On the Essequibo Coast, many churches have already installed sinks and masks requirements in observance of the religious holiday. Many church leaders related that it is important that persons adhere to the COVID-19 guidelines in the dreaded pandemic.

Families said that they prefer to visit the church to listen to the words of God and raise their kites and spend time with their family indoor.

Virtual programme

Pastor Leon Harvey Singh of Grace Church of God said that Christians should celebrate Easter while remembering the true significance of “the resurrection of Jesus Christ” “Since last year the religious festival is affected as a result of COVID protocol that was given raise by the Minister of Health.

Easter is the most important Christian festival of the year it’s when Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Bible says that Christ died

A student of Taymouth Manor Primary School flying her kite at a kite flying day out

on the cross on a day called Good Friday. According to the Bible, Jesus was then resurrected and came back to life on Easter

Sunday,” he said.

Pastor Singh said that this year, the church’s story on Christ - the risen saviour -

and prayer meetings will be hosted virtually. They will be aired on the local RCA channel.

The programme will feature prayers, stories and dance performances from the region. The religious leader also said that everyone is concerned about their health. As such, he encouraged gatherings within the family circle and advised persons to spend quality time with their families during the pandemic in the comfort of their home after the service at church.

One of the fundamental principles of Christianity is good begets good and this is instilled in the minds of all Christians from a young age and as such will be knowledgeable on the words of God. Easter is celebrated by Christians as a joyous holiday because it represents the fulfilment of the prophecies of the Old Testament

Pastor Leon Harvey Singh

and the revelation of God’s salvific plan for all of humankind. In commemorating the resurrection of Jesus, Easter also celebrates the defeat of death and the hope of salvation.

FEATURE

33

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

FROM PAGE 31

The practice of flying kites on Easter Monday is a popular one in Guyana and with all that has happened over the past year, that practice is severely restricted.

Gatherings in the parks, at seawalls and on beaches are limited and now people are forced to be confined to the

limited spaces in their yards, and in some cases, they do not even have yard space.

The spirit of Easter is not lost since most churches have moved to various online platforms so that they can meet with their worshippers.

Also, in some cases, churches have services with a limited

congregation.

As we may be tempted to go out and enjoy the Easter holiday, please remember the consequences of not taking the COVID-19 pandemic seriously. We have to stay at home unless it is absolutely necessary to venture outside.

34 FEATURE

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Lindeners finding creative ways to celebrate Easter

By Utamu Belle

T

he Easter celebration in Guyana is marked mainly by interactive outdoor and social activities - kite flying, church services, picnics, barbeques and outings with family and friends.

However, around this time last year, the COVID-19 pandemic caused many to rethink and re-examine new ways in which they choose to celebrate the observances, due to social distancing and other guidelines which have been put in place to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

As such, the Easter observance around this time last year saw many celebrating in their own backyards, as large gatherings were prohibited. Popular kite flying and social places were either empty or taken up by just a

few people.

This year, Lindeners are finding more creative ways to celebrate the Easter holidays, all while maintaining social distancing. For many, it’s a difficult task but one that is necessary to ensure that all remain safe.

Some Lindeners have also agreed that the COVID-19 pandemic has put a dark cloud over celebrations and observances such as these, but have noted that they will make the best of the celebrations in whatever way they can.

For Lindener Denisia Chapman, this year’s Easter observance will see her spending time with close family in their own backyard.

“I plan on making two ‘Caddy Ole Punch’ and me aunty get a big back yard.

So I plan on getting a cookout - bush cook in the back-

yard with family. Just drink and have barbeque and that is it,” Chapman recently told the Sunday Times.

She also admitted that things have changed and that she has been affected socially by these changes.

“Celebrating Easter in this COVID time is not as fun like before, because you can’t go out with family and friends.

You can’t go nowhere and there’s no fun because the area where I live got plenty barb wires and I can’t fly no kite. So that’s no fun, it’s very boring,” Chapman related.

Nevertheless, the Block 22, Wismar resident said she would be attending church as is customary and will try

Lester Glen

Denisia Chapman

her best to adapt, in light of the circumstances.

Meanwhile, Wisroc resident Lester Glen said given the current atmosphere, he is uncertain about how he’ll be spending the Easter holidays this year. Around this time of the year, social activities are usually the buzz of the town but Glen admitted too that there is a spell of uncertainty in the air at this time.

“I don’t even know what are the plans for the town this Easter. But as for me I will go with the flow... I know to adjust and adapt so for me celebrating Easter in these COVID times is not so bad.

I go with the flow,” Glen told this publication.

While Lindeners and others across Guyana are thinking of ways in which to observe the holidays, the National COVID-19 Task

Force Secretariat announced on Thursday that as a result of health security concerns, it was necessary to implement some restrictions to the traditional celebrations. It noted that these guidelines are intended to allow for a limited participation in Easter activities while maintaining the sanctity of the religious holidays.

As such, churches are allowed to operate at 40 per cent capacity and persons are advised to observe Easter activities within their homes. The Task Force noted too, that the traditional public restrictions in observance of Good Friday must be adhered to, while shows, parties, wet fetes and limes are prohibited. It added that the Joint Services will also be working across the country to ensure these guidelines are adhered to.

FEATURE

35

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

HEALTH TIPS

The Impact of COVID-19 on HIV/AIDS – Part 2 and psychological impacts of COVID-19.

SOCIAL IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON HIV TREATMENT

D r. T ariq Jagnarine Programme M anager N ational AIDS Programme S ecretariat

PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON HIV TREATMENT

Given the unprecedented nature of the COVID-19 outbreak, an increase in anxiety has been prevalent worldwide. Furthermore, the CDC has noted that individuals with chronic health conditions, such as HIV, may develop a stronger stress response than the rest of the population. This strong stress response is due to an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 as a result of a compromised immune system. The compounded stigma associated with HIV-positive status and SARS-CoV-2 may lead to an array of mental health issues comprising psychological disorders such as depression, sleep disorder, substance abuse, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders, which may trigger somatoform disorders which may lead to failure to seek care. Alcohol can lead to impaired judgment, such as engaging in risky sexual behaviours. Risky behaviours paired with an increased viral load may result in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) passing on the virus through unprotected sex. Although people are practising physical distancing, individuals who are quarantined with a romantic partner may be engaging in sexual activities more often, which may be problematic for PLHIV whose viral loads are suppressed and who do not engage in protective behaviours e.g., condom use, or whose sexual partners are not using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). It is important to note, however, that the mental health effects of COVID-19 may not be apparent for every individual immediately following the pandemic. For this reason, it is also possible that in the coming years, there will be an even greater need for health and mental health care providers to support the economic

Although physical distancing guidelines serve to benefit one’s physical health, these guidelines may be detrimental to one’s social and emotional health. PLHIV may be even more reluctant to engage in physical interaction with others. This may be especially true for newly diagnosed PLHIV who do not have a full understanding of the ways in which HIV is transmitted.

Because many PLHIV are part of marginalised communities, other social impacts also exist, such as: • Increased risk exists for PLHIV whose domestic arrangements may be risky or violent-Prone to gender-based violence • Reduced access to drugs normally bought on the street • Reduced access to needle exchange schemes, which are important for secondary HIV prevention • Increased risk of underemployment • Increased conditions for the homeless, or having unstable housing • Reduced access to food banks • Reduced access to medical or pharmacy services as a result of reduced public transport services.

COVID-19 has brought the issue of low health literacy to the forefront, especially during the efforts to ensure that the information can be understood by all, and spread of the disease can be stopped.

RECOMMENDATIONS

HIV services must continue to be made available for people living with, and at risk of contracting, HIV. This includes ensuring the availability of condoms, lubricants, ARVs, sterile needles and syringes, harm reduction, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and HIV testing.

To prevent people from running out of medicines, and to reduce the need to access the health system, countries should move to the full implementation of multi-month dispensing of three months or more of HIV treatment, telemedicine, enhanced virtual support groups, food hamper delivery, increase mobile testing, etc. There must be access to COVID-19 services for vulnerable people, including a targeted approach to reach those most left behind, and removing financial barriers, such as user fees or subsi-

dies.

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV

• People with a CD4 count of over 200, who are taking HIV treatment and have an undetectable viral load, are considered at no greater risk than the general population. They should follow general advice to observe the curfew hours and maintain social distancing.

• People with a CD4 count below 200, or who are not taking HIV treatment, or who have a detectable viral load, may be at higher risk of severe illness. Nonetheless, they should still follow the same general advice.

• People with a very low CD4 count, below 50, or who have had an opportunistic illness in the last six months, should follow

the Ministry of Health’s guidelines: wear a mask, wash hands regularly, and avoid crowded spaces with social distancing practices.

COVID-19 is a serious disease, and all people living with HIV should take all recommended preventive measures to minimise exposure to, and prevent infection by, the virus that causes COVID-19.

As in the general population, older people living with HIV, or people living with HIV with heart or lung problems, may be at a higher risk of becoming infected with the virus and of suffering more serious symptoms. All people living with HIV should reach out to their health-care providers to ensure that they have adequate stocks of essential medicines.

Until more is known, people living with HIV - espe-

cially those with advanced or poorly controlled HIV disease - should be cautious and pay attention to

the prevention measures and recommendations by the Ministry of Health.

36 FEATURE

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SKIN AILMENTS – CONTINUED

T

his column is truly gaining in both credence and popularity as evidenced by the number of telephone calls we receive about general pet health and wellbeing, as well as the specific issues that we have been addressing.

Over the past few weeks, we have been dealing with skin ailments affecting our companion animals. We dealt with the major skin problems and had reached the point of discussing an assorted set of skin conditions that occur with less and less frequency (Vets getting better in their healing/prevention capabilities?

Caregivers are now much more knowledgeable? Better medications on the market? Is the incidence of disease agents being substantially decreased and their ability to

infect animals lessened?)

Whatever! But this does not mean that the ailments have been eliminated. And here is where a simple question by a fan of the column has brought us back to reality and the recognition that the discussion pertaining to skin care is far from

concluded. What was her question?

Q: Do our pets get Acne?

A: Yes. Acne in our companion dogs and cats is an inflammatory disorder – located mainly on the chin and lips, and usually affecting young dogs (less than

cumulating in the chin area and around the lips. Later, those patches become swollen and even an ulcer can develop, secondarily, when bacteria invade the lesions.

The affected skin becomes thickened and swollen, and the itching begins.

Q: Breed specificity?

A: Yes, there seems to be a predisposition for this ailment to target puppies of breeds (even mixed breeds) with coats of short hair.

Q: What are the causes of Acne?

most common in dogs who are middle-aged and therefore less active. It tends to occur among Labradors, Great Danes, Dobermans, and other large, short-coated breeds.

As the dog begins to lick at his wrist or ankle the hair is rubbed off. The surface of the skin then gets red and shiny-looking and begins to itch. This leads to further maceration of the skin which continues the cycle. Eventually, the sore becomes raised, thick,

A: In dogs and cats, the cause seems not to be conclusively known, and as I said above, bacterial invasion of the lesioned site is really secondary, but takes over the expression of symptoms. However, certain speculative causes for Acne are offered: (i) Triggered by bruises to the area (chin, lips); (ii) genetic predisposition; hormonal imbalances

In cats, one may also take into consideration: (i) poor grooming habits; (ii) stress (remember cats can acquire Acne at any age); (iii) medications that might have a side effect of suppressing the functions of the immune system.

Q: Treatment?

A: Treat as was documented during the discussion on Seborrhea – PET CORNER dated March 28, 2021: gentle shampoos (especially those containing chlorhexidine, benzoyl peroxide, selenium); focus on the secondary bacterial infection, inter alia. Let your vet advise on his/her choice of drug/shampoo. Don’t forget to clip the hair away from the area. Also, brace yourself, as caregivers, for a long-term exercise.

and hard, and insensitive to pressure. The wound remains clean and fresh-looking from constant licking.

Often it is just one leg that is involved.

Treatment: The most important step in treating this condition is to get your dog interested in something else. Take him for a walk every day, bring him into the house, or perhaps get him another pet to keep him company. Cortisone creams may relieve the itching, but it will probably be licked off right away.

Cortisones can also be administered by injection directly into the sore.

Antibiotic intervention, preferably orally or via injection, may become necessary and could help in preventing germs from taking root in the wounded skin.

Your Vet will advise on the antibiotic usage and dosage.

Cats are naturally involved in grooming; but this normal exercise may evolve into excessive licking. As the cat begins to lick at its skin, continuously and obsessively, the hair is rubbed off. Accompanying itching/ scratching leads to further damage of the skin, and the cycle continues. Eventually the sore becomes ulcerated. The treatment, by and large, is the same as described for dogs (see above).

As with any long-standing (chronic) skin condition, Lick Sores are difficult to treat and tend to recur.

Happy Easter! Please adhere to the COVID-19 protocols, even as you and your families enjoy the picnics and the kite-flying and, in the case of Christians, celebrations associated with the resurrection.

one year of age), and cats of any age.

Associated with this query, are these further questions and answers: Q: What are the symptoms?

A: This ailment is characterized by small pockets of fluid (serum) ac-

LICK SORES

Caregivers present dogs and cats with skin disorders which, as the name suggests, has to do with constant licking of the skin. In this condition, a sore at the ankle or wrist is caused by a constant licking at that spot. It is also called a “boredom” sore, because it occurs in dogs left alone without company or something to interest them for long periods. It is

NEWS

37

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Defence against $20M lawsuit was prepared within time frame – Nandlall ...says clerical error resulted in it not being filed

I

n the wake of the recent libel damages judgement granted against now Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, his lawyer at the time Attorney General Anil Nandlall has clarified that a defence was personally prepared by him but was not filed due to clerical errors beyond his control.

In a statement on his social media account, Nandlall noted that an “unfortunate but devious” spin has been put by sections of society on the Application and Affidavit that has since been filed to set aside the judgement granted in favour of former Minister Annette Ferguson.

The AG provided clarity in his statement.

“I wish to make it abundantly clear that both Mr Jagdeo and I gave (Attorneyat-Law) Mr Devindra Kissoon the instructions which were utilised in the preparation of those documents and those documents were read and approved by me,” the Senior Counsel said in his statement.

“I reiterate that the defence was prepared by me within the time prescribed but unfortunately, was not filed. I have already outlined the facts and circumstances which led to the same. Two weeks prior to the March 2 elections, I took complete leave from my law office and only made court appearances when my absence was unavoidable.”

He also explained the process when lawyers prepare legal documents. According to him, it was his clerical staff who were supposed to file the prepared Affidavit of Defence. This was, however, not done and Nandlall was himself under the mistaken impression that it had been filed.

“Lastly, while lawyers prepare legal documents, the filing is done by their clerical staff. Clear instructions were given to my staff to file the prepared defence. In error, I assumed that it was done and I so communicated to Mr Jagdeo. I hope I have provided due clarity to those who have authored and are fueling the skewed narrative,” Nandlall said.

Jagdeo, through Attorney-at-Law Devindra Kissoon, has since applied to the High Court asking for an interim order staying the

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

enforcement of a $20 million default judgement awarded against him to former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government Minister Annette Ferguson, who filed a libel suit against him in January 2020.

The application has been made before the very Judge who ruled in Ferguson’s favour, Justice Sandra Kurtzious. In court documents seen by Guyana Times, Jagdeo is also asking for an order setting aside the judgement and another order dismissing Ferguson’s lawsuit.

On March 11, 2021, Justice Kurtzious pursuant to Part 12:01 (2) (d) of the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) of the Supreme Court of Judicature rendered the default judgement after Jagdeo failed to file a defence within the required time.

Dismissal

Given that the lawsuit was filed in January 2020, and that no action was taken

by Ferguson until February 24, 2021, when she applied for a default judgement, Jagdeo, through his lawyer, Devindra Kissoon, contended that the case should have been dismissed for delay in accordance with Part 13 of the High Court rules.

Moreover, he argued that his lawyers were not informed that Ferguson had applied for such a judgement.

As a result, Jagdeo argued that the order for a default issued by Justice Kurtzious is improper and irregular. “For this reason alone, it is respectfully submitted that the [judgement] Order be set aside and the Statement of Claim dismissed. [Ferguson] has not fulfilled the requirements necessary for the grant of a default judgement,” Jagdeo’s

counsel argued.

According to Kissoon, Ferguson failed to inform the court that she filed identical proceedings against Guyana Times arising out of the same comments made by his client. In the statements, Jagdeo allegedly questioned her acquisition of land and the construction of her home.

Since Ferguson’s claim was for an unspecified sum in damages, Jagdeo through his lawyer argued that the court should not have issued a default judgement sum, but rather invite his lawyers for an assessment of same.

Kissoon deposed that at the time the defence was due, Nandlall was legal adviser to Jagdeo, who was at the time Leader of the Opposition, and was also a senior member of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) who was responsible for large portions of the Party’s campaign for the March 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

Even after the elections concluded, Kissoon added that Nandlall continued to be extensively and exclusively engaged in matters relating to elections, including acting as lead counsel in elections-related litigation, as well as matters involving a recount of votes.

“These tasks resulted in Mr Nandlall inadvertently failing to file the defence though drafted. This inad-

vertence was not due to neglect, but rather a combination of unusual and exceptional circumstances, which caused counsel to simply be unable to comply with the time limits established by the rules.”

Additionally, Kissoon submitted that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the shuttering of Nandlall’s law office for several months and the subsequent relocation of files.

Because of this, the lawyer stated that Nandlall did not discover that the defence, though drafted, was not filed. According to Kissoon, “[Jagdeo] ought not to be penalised for law office inadvertence.”

Given the length and complexity of the issues in the matter, the sum of damages claimed by Ferguson, the overriding objective of the CPR and the interests of justice, assuming the Statement of Claim is not

Jagdeo’s new lawyer Devindra Kissoon

dismissed, Jagdeo’s lawyer contended that it would be prejudicial to deny him an opportunity to be heard by serving and filing his defence given that he has already been sanctioned by the court.

Kissoon has told the court that his client’s application is urgent, since the judgement has been entered and Ferguson may seek to enforce the judgement at any time, which warrants an immediate stay being granted.

38 NEWS

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

25,000 doses of Sputnik V vaccine arrive in Guyana — to boost vaccination campaign

G

uyana received 25,000 doses of Sputnik V vaccine on Friday as part of the 200,000 doses that was purchased by Government to the tune of US$4 million.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, who was present at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport upon arrival of the vaccine on Good Friday, stated that this batch will be used as the first doses for 25,000 people as arrangements are being made for the second tranche.

“We’ll start utilising this as early as next week. This vaccine is a two-dose vaccine as well and we’ll have an interval of three weeks between first and second dose.

The 25,000 that came in are all first dose and so we have made arrangements as well to start getting the second dose,” the Minister said.

He noted that additional vaccines are expected through the COVAX mechanism but authorities are constantly exploring new

avenues to ensure that enough vaccines are available to immunise the adult population.

In total, Guyana has received 152,000 doses of vaccines, with 3000 from Barbados; 20,000 from China; 80,000 from India; 24,000 from COVAX and 25,000 from the United Arab Emirates via Russia.

Guyana has donated 5000 doses of vaccines back to Barbados, leaving 147,000 vaccines for the immediate rollout locally.

“With 147,000 doses, we expect to vaccinate 86,000 persons with first doses and 61,000 of these persons with both their first and second doses. This is a massive undertaking, but the rollout so far has demonstrated that Guyana can and will succeed in vaccinating all persons aged 18 and older,” the Ministry said in a statement.

The vaccination campaign started with frontline health workers and then ex-

tended to persons 60 years and over. It then lowered this limit to 40 years. Over 36,000 persons in Guyana have been vaccinated to date. Authorities are working aggressively to secure more COVID-19 jabs so that the country can achieve herd immunity.

So far, the COVID-19 vaccination rollout has administered over 39,000 doses of vaccines and by next week, the accelerated vaccination rollout is expected to reach over 40,000 persons “This is an incredible achievement in an environment where developing countries have had little to no access to COVID-19 vaccines. More than 30 countries have had no access to even a single dose of vaccines as yet. Dozens of countries have only received enough vaccines for less than one per cent of their population.

Over the next several days and in the coming weeks, Guyana will pursue access to an even larger amount

Minister Anthony watching on as the vaccines are offloaded from the aircraft

of vaccines. The President and the Vice President have been aggressively pursuing COVID-19 vaccine procurement from all possible legitimate sources,” the Ministry added.

From April 6, the rollout will ramp up with almost 100 fixed sites around the country. There will also be mobile teams in all ten regions. In addition to these

sites, there are special sites organised through a collaboration between religious leaders.

“The MOH is urging Local Government bodies, such as the NDCs, and religious leaders, such as pastors, pandits and imams to encourage people in the

communities to take their vaccines. We urge political leaders to take an active role in promoting COVID-19 vaccination. Further, we urge everyone to be responsible.

For those persons promoting conspiracy theories, we ask them to desist,” the Ministry insisted.

3 arrested, charged for murder of Victoria man

T

hree persons including two women were arrested for the murder of 29-year-old Nico Layne, a labourer of Victoria Village, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Layne was reportedly killed in the wee hours of Wednesday on Leopold Street, Georgetown.

Based on reports received, at 03:30h on the day in question, Layne was on High Street playing a game of cards with a group of men when he realised that his bicycle was missing.

This caused him to go in search of the bicycle.

Eyewitnesses said around the time mentioned, Layne was seen running on High Street heading south then east on Leopold Street.

From reports provided by the Police, he was being chased by the three suspects who were armed with a knife and a cutlass.

Police said while running, Layne fell onto the roadway. At this point, the three armed persons caught up with him and dealt several chops and stabs about his body. After committing the act, the perpetrators made good their escape, leaving Layne lying on the roadway in a pool of blood.

The injured man was picked up in an unconscious state and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was later pronounced dead.

The Police stated that the man was stabbed under his right armpit, once to his upper left side chest and thrice to his right forearm.

The three suspects were later arrested. At the time of their arrest, one was seen with a wound to his forehead and on his left side face. He was taken to the hospital where he received medical attention.

He reportedly claimed

Dead: Nico Layne

that Layne attempted to rob his reputed wife at the Stabroek Market area and he intervened and a scuffle ensued, resulting in him being wounded.

The fatal stabbing, Police stated, was captured on CCTV. The suspects, Osafi Johnson, 28, of East Ruimveldt Georgetown; Randy Tafari called “Randy Robertson”, 20, of West Ruimveldt, Georgetown, and Natasha Taitt, 32, a vendor of 707 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, were remanded to prison for the murder of Layne.

They will return to court on May 11, 2021.

Meanwhile, Layne was no stranger to the law. In March 2016 he was found guilty of robbing Ivelaw Hartman of a mobile phone and $19,000 in cash. He was armed with a knife when he committed the act. He was sentenced to one year’s imprisonment.

In November 2015, he was also found guilty of armed robbery. He was charged with robbing taxi driver Shafiek Mohammed of several items and cash.

In that matter, he was given a 58-month jail term by Magistrate Judy Latchman.

NEWS

39

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Essequibo man stabbed during argument

T

hirty-five-year-old Marlon Scott of Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), was in the wee hours of Friday stabbed during an argument with another man.

Police stated that the inci-

dent took place at about 03:00h on the day in question at the Onderneeming Sand Pit. Based on reports gathered, the now injured man and the suspect, who is also of the said village, had a misunderstanding which resulted in a heated argument.

Marlon Scott

During the spat between the two men, the suspect reportedly whipped out a knife from the waist of his pants and stabbed the victim to his right thumb, right foot and his right-side lower back. At the time of the incident, Scott was in the presence of his sister.

However, after receiving the stab wounds, the man reported collapsed but was picked up and taken to the Suddie Hospital where he was admitted a patient.

The suspect was arrested and is assisting the Police with investigations.

40 NEWS

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

4 more die from COVID-19, death toll now stands at 239

…94 new cases recorded in 24 hours

T

he Health Minister has reported that four more persons died from COVID-19, thus taking the death toll to 239.

On Friday, the Ministry stated that a 45-year-old female from Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and a 26-year-old male from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) died while receiving treatment at a medical facility. On Saturday, a 28-yearold from Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and one 81-year-old from Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) succumbed.

However, new statistics provided by the Ministry on Saturday showed that 94 new cases were detected, bringing the total number

of positives to 10,540 – 5380 males and 5160 females.

The stats indicated that 13 persons remain in the designated Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 999 in home isolation and 77 in institutional isolation. Another 10 persons are also in institutional quarantine. The data further showed that 9215 patients have recovered from the life-threatening virus while 92,537 have been tested.

Of the 94 new cases, 21 of them were detected in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); 43 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); four in Region Five (Demerara-Mahaica); two in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne); 12 in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni),

and 10 in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

The cases remain at 1028 in Region One (BarimaWaini), 263 in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), 242 in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni) and 441 in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Meanwhile, as the Easter holiday dawns upon us, the National COVID-19 Task Force has enforced guidelines for the weekend along with warnings about having activities in public places.

In a statement, the secretariat indicated that the measures are in place from April 2 to April 4. Easter activities at parks, creeks, lakes, beaches and resorts are prohibited.

Nevertheless, non-re-

ligious celebrations in the form of “shows, parties, limes and wet fetes” are also forbidden. Events held at churches inclusive of mass, services and cultural programmes are to operate at 40 per cent capacity.

“Churches are encouraged to utilise their outdoor spaces, where available.

Persons are encouraged to observe Easter activi-

ties within their home circles. The traditional public restrictions in observance of Good Friday must be adhered to,” the Task Force noted.

These guidelines emerged as a result of health and security concerns, and are intended to allow for limited participation in Easter activities to curtail COVID-19 infections. The

Joint Services have already planned COVI-CURB patrols nationwide to enforce these guidelines.

Apart from these specific measures, the national COVID-19 Emergency Measures are also in place, warranting full compliance.

The national curfew remains in place from 22:30h to 04:00h (04:00 am to 10:30 pm) for the month of April.

NEWS

41

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Woman stabs lover to death after he ended relationship

D

arren Harris, 46, a cook of E Field Cummings Park, Sophia, was on Thursday evening stabbed to death by his reputed wife after he reportedly ended their relationship.

Police investigations revealed that Harris and the suspect once shared a rela-

tionship which ended about a week ago due to domestic issues.

An eyewitness told detectives that she overheard an argument on the road and as such, she ventured out of her home to investigate.

As she looked out, she saw the now dead man falling to the ground and the wom-

an walking away from the scene.

As a result, the eyewitness raised an alarm and persons rushed to the scene.

Shortly after, an EMT arrived at the scene and pronounced Harris dead.

The body bore three stab wounds - one to the left side chest and two to the left side

Albouystown businessman robbed at gunpoint

T

he Police are on the hunt for two men who executed a daring robbery on a 54-year-old businessman at his Calendar Street property on Thursday last.

Based on reports received, at about 20:00h, Sean Seales was sitting in front of his business place when one of the perpetrators entered his shop and as he was making his way out, he attacked the victim and snatched off the gold chain that he was wearing at the time. The gold chain weighed about 40 pennyweights.

However, the business-

man attempted to open a pepper spray when the armed bandit whipped out a handgun and pointed it at the man. The other perpetrator then relieved the businessman of his two cellular phones.

After committing the act, the two men escaped on foot.

The Police were summoned and an investigation was launched. Statements were taken from the businessman, who reportedly gave a description of the two men.

Dead: Darren Harris

upper back. The suspect was later arrested at her home where it was observed that she too was bleeding pro-

fusely from a wound between her right index and ring fingers.

She claimed that she

and Harris were involved in a scuffle during which the deceased chopped her and in retaliation, she took the knife and dealt him several blows about his body. She claimed that after the incident, she disposed of the weapon.

She was, nevertheless, escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where she was treated under guard. Harris’ body is presently at the Lyken Funeral Home awaiting post-mortem.

Attempts to contact the dead man’s relatives proved futile.

42 NEWS

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana the only Caribbean country with GDP growth in 2020 – World Bank — 27 other countries in region record negative growth

G

uyana, which started producing oil in 2019, was the sole Caribbean country with positive Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth in 2020. This is according to a recent World Bank report that shed light on how Latin America and the Caribbean economies fared in 2020.

According to the World Bank report “2021. Renewing with Growth. LAC Semiannual Report”, Guyana was able to do what 27 other countries in the region could not – record GDP growth, notwithstanding the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“Despite the COVID-19 crisis, Guyana’s GDP grew by more than 20 per cent in 2020, as the exploitation of very large oil discoveries started. More modestly, Paraguay’s GDP emerged almost unscathed from the crisis, although this sturdy economic performance was not sufficient to prevent a new wave of social unrest,” the report said.

“For all other countries in the region, GDP growth rates were negative in 2020, in some cases dramatically so. The worst-affected countries were those

Guyana’s GDP growth was fuelled by oil production

in the Caribbean, a subregion whose economic activity crucially depends on tourism. Together with hospitality and personal services, tourism has been the sector most adversely affected by the COVID-19 crisis.”

In an accompanying chart, the report notes that Guyana recorded approximately 43.5 per cent GDP growth. The remaining countries, including Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica and Argentina, recorded negative growth.

According to the report, Guyana’s GDP growth will remain in the double figures. But while Guyana’s growth was good, the report notes that the country will be challenged to translate this into investments in human capital among other things.

“While oil production is boosting growth, significant risks related to the management of this new wealth remain. Guyana will be challenged to transform its burgeoning oil wealth into human capital, physical capital, and financial assets for broad-based welfare increases,” the report states.

2020 economy

For 2020, Guyana has seen mixed performances from the agriculture sector.

While sugar production fell, rice production increased.

During his February reading of Budget 2021, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh had reported that the country’s non-oil economy contracted by 7.3 per cent with sectors such as fishing, mining, manufacturing, forestry, and services recording declines.

While the agriculture, fishing, and forestry sector expanded by 4.1 per cent, the sugar-growing one contracted by 3.7 per cent, with production falling to a low 88,868 tonnes.

The rice-growing sector grew by 4.8 per cent, with paddy production reaching 1,057,580 tonnes in 2020.

With respect to the production of other crops, despite excessive rainfall in November and December, this sector is estimated

to have grown by 6.6 per cent in 2020. The Finance Minister explained that the COVID-19 pandemic would have resulted in increased demand for many fruits, particularly citrus.

Meanwhile, the livestock sector is estimated to have grown in 2020, recording an increase of 5 per cent. This was driven by poultry, egg and beef production, which are estimated to have grown by 10.4 per cent, 34.1 per cent, and 3.4 per cent, respectively.

The fishing industry contracted by 17.1 per cent while the forestry sector contracted by 8.1 per cent.

Regarding fishery, he said the decline was largely a result of fewer vessels going out to fish due to lower domestic and external demand stemming from the pandemic.

With respect to forestry, the Finance Minister explained that the poor performance is primarily driven by an 11.8 per cent decline in sawn wood production, reflecting the slowdown in construction activities.

Manufacturing contracted by 8.6 per cent, construction by 6.3 per cent, and services by 9.4 per cent.

Meanwhile, the overall balance of payments recorded a surplus of US$60.6 million in 2020, compared to a deficit of US$48.9 million recorded in 2019.

With the measures announced in the 2021 budget, the Finance Minister had said Guyana’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to grow by 20.9 per cent, with the non-oil economy growing by 6.1 per cent.

However, he explained that the projection is premised on the assumption that a reopening of the economy takes place with COVID-19 restrictions being gradually lifted and is, therefore, subject to significant downside risks.

Similarly, the agriculture, fishing and forestry sector is expected to expand by 5.6 per cent while the mining and quarrying sector is projected to grow by 39.1 per cent.

NEWS

43

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Health Ministry to clamp down on doctors failing to serve the public system T

he Health Ministry is on a mission to have effective service in the public health system, starting with stamping out the occurrence of doctors who fail to serve the population properly due to their private practice.

Speaking during the latest COVID-19 update, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony indicated that there are instances where doctors spend a short amount of time in the public hospitals and then “run away” to tend to their private establishment.

“We employ people and we want them to spend their time in the hospital to see patients. What I can say is that we have a number of doctors who have been employed with us, who would come in, spend an hour at the hospital and then run away to their private practice.”

He said they are working to curb this practice since these medical professionals are being paid to serve the public. It is a position which the administration has strongly taken a stance against in efforts to

enhance the public health system.

“This is something that we’re working to curb because they’re not serving the population in the public health system for which they are being paid. If trying to correct that is making people and the Opposition uneasy, then I am happy to make them uneasy because these doctors must be there and serve the patients of the public institution. I don’t make any apologies for that,” Dr Anthony positioned.

The Minister was also at

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony

the time responding to clarifications on whether doctors are facing double workloads with the extant pandemic

crisis. However, he assured that the system used presently has been in place for many years and doctors are placed on fixed timings.

“Doctors are employed by the institution. They have fixed times when they work so whether you’re getting in from 08:00 to 04:30, you’re supposed to be at the hospital during that time. Then you have on-call, where if you’re working in a particular department you’re required to be on call for the night and there’s a rotation,” he detailed.

With claims from the Opposition that “several” doctors tendered their

resignation from the West Demerara Regional Hospital this week, the Minister debunked such information. He noted that one person resigned within the past three weeks.

“I have asked the authorities at the West Demerara Hospital whether they have received any such resignation. I’m told that about three weeks ago, one doctor had resigned. As of today, we haven’t received any resignation from any doctor.

Whatever it is at this point in time, we haven’t seen those resignations…I don’t know how one can become several.”

Scheme, New Amsterdam, Berbice, and the Special Constable, who was at the time riding a bicycle.

The injured cop was identified as 48-year-old Maricella Bruce, of Tucber Park in New Amsterdam, Berbice.

Based on reports received, the motor car was proceeding along Main Street, New Amsterdam, when it collided with the pedal cyclist. As a result of the collision, the pedal cyclist fell onto the

road’s surface where she received injuries on her face above her right eye.

Bruce was picked up by the said driver in a conscious condition and taken to New Amsterdam Public Hospital where she was admitted as a patient. Her condition is regarded as stable.

Meanwhile, the diver of the motor car is currently in custody and the vehicle lodged at the Police station. Investigations are still in progress.

Soldier, GWI employee busted with ganja during Police raid Female cop injured in New Amsterdam accident

A

A

member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and an employee of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) were arrested on Saturday with a quantity of ganja during a Police operation.

Based on reports received, a team of policemen conducted a raid on a house at Goed Fortuin Squatting Area, West Bank Demerara (WBD), which is occupied by the 38-year-old soldier and the 32-year-old GWI employee.

During the search, a white transparent plastic bag containing a quantity of zip lock bags with leaves, seeds and stems was found

The cannabis that was found during the Police operation

in the living room hidden behind a cabinet.

The men were immediately told of the allegation and cautioned. They both denied having knowledge of the narcotics.

As such, they were arrest-

ed and escorted to the Vreeden-Hoop Police Station where the ganja was weighed in their presence and amounted to 16 grams.

The cannabis was lodged and an investigation has been launched.

female Special Constable stationed at the Central Police Station and attached to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is currently hospitalised following an accident at New Amsterdam, Berbice.

The accident occurred on Friday at Main Street, New Amsterdam, Berbice, at about 07:00h and involved motor car PPP 9004 driven a 21-year-old of Mayor and Town Council Housing

44

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Easter Messages

PPP urges to reflect on significance of Easter for peace, brotherhood

E

aster is one of our nation’s most anticipated holidays during which Guyanese from all backgrounds participate in the traditional kite flying and other family-related activities that have become synonymous with the occasion.

It is foremost, a very sacred time for Christians across the world, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Easter also provides many pertinent lessons for all humanity through its teachings of tolerance, humility, love, and respect for others while

offering an abundance of hope that one will rise despite being confronted with insurmountable challenges. It is that hope which gives meaningful purpose to all mankind for both personal and societal advancement. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the need to adhere to all safety-related protocols, kite flying and other activities will be restricted. As such, while our celebrations will be tempered, we urge that our spirits not be dampened as we reflect on the significance and messages of Easter and the

importance it can play in helping to realise universal peace and brotherhood among all.

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend to all Guyanese, especially our brothers and sisters within the Christian communities here and abroad, best wishes for this auspicious occasion.

Our Party also urges adherence to all COVID-19 preventative protocols.

People’s Progressive Party

Easter symbolises compassionate approach in treatment of fellow man – GTUC

T

he Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) extends Easter greetings to all Guyanese, particularly our Christian brothers and sisters. This holiday bears much significance to the Christian world for it symbolises a more compassionate approach in treating our fellow man. In the Christian faith, the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who was betrayed by his disciple Judas, not only resulted in his crucifixion but brought salvation to all men. This equality in salvation acknowledges all are equal in worth and status.

The God of the Christians, though a God of mercy is also a God of accountability. His words must not only be preached in sermons and from the pulpit but taken to action. The Reverend, Dr Martin Luther King Jr, reminded us to: “Never, never be afraid to do what’s right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society’s punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way.”

GTUC, therefore, calls on the Christian community to put on the true armour of God and go into the highways and

byways and do thy Father’s will, advocating compliance to the gospel to “…seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, and please the widow’s cause.” Christian leaders have a moral and spiritual duty to do God’s will in the communities within which they reside and on behalf of the congregants sitting in their pews. May this Easter be the year of a call to action and spiritual awakening among Christians as done in days of yore and presently in other societies in taking public stands for justice and equality.

and to epitomise the virtues of Christ, as expressed in the Holy Bible.

His death stands out in history as the perfect example of selflessness and unconditional love. His life and teachings are centred on the importance of helping others and loving our neighbours, a universal practice across religions.

His unswerving devotion and mercy provide a remarkable example for all of us.

As we celebrate God’s

gift of freedom and his love that conquers death, I remind you that it is our faith in this belief that must embolden our confidence that good overcomes evil and that joy nurtured by this season is everlasting.

On this occasion, my family and I revere God’s many blessings and pray for his peace in all affairs.

Today, I express our best wishes to all for a happy Easter. God bless you.

Easter reassures Guyanese can overcome COVID-19 by complying Let God’s love embolden your confidence that good overcomes evil – Prime with measures – PNCR Minister Brig (ret’d) Mark Phillips

T

he People’s National Congress Reform extends greetings to the Guyanese nation on the occasion of the happy festival of Easter – the most important event in Christian doctrine.

Easter celebrates Jesus’s miraculous resurrection and is the core of Jesus’s message, ministry and mission on earth.

The festival of Easter is observed at the conclusion of Lent, a period which replicates Jesus’s forty days of sacrifice, self-denial and suf-

fering. The festival teaches us of the victory of Jesus’s virtue over Judas’s venality and his life over death.

The gospels of the Holy Bible recount Jesus’s agony in Gethsemane, followed by his arrest, accusation, betrayal, crucifixion and glorious resurrection.

The festival of Easter this year, owing to the prevalence of the deadly coronavirus pandemic disease, will find many Guyanese – except for our country’s doctors, nurses and medical person-

nel and enforcement officers and workers performing essential services – safely “at home”.

The message of Easter is a blessed reassurance that the Guyanese people can overcome the COVID-19 disease if we conduct ourselves correctly and comply with the public health measures aimed at protecting all of us in the year ahead.

The PNC wishes every Guyanese a happy Easter!

People’s National Congress

F

ellow Guyanese, Easter is a time to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice of love. As we observe this holiday, I ask that we remember its significance and reflect on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Messiah and son of God. Remarkably, this story is given new life on the occasion of Easter each year.

Throughout generations, the story of Jesus has inspired millions to strive for a better world

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021

45

BCB launches Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh Sukhram leading the way coaching programme countywide – one of few pioneers aiming to grow golf in Guyana

– over 100 players benefit in opening week

T

he Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) in its continuing effort to ensure that every potential is fulfilled on the cricket field has launched their fourth annual Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh County wide coaching programme. The programme which is expected to benefit over seven hundred youths is been sponsored by long time BCB sponsor and overseas based Guyanese Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh.

The 2021 edition was launched on Tuesday last with dozens of players from the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, (RHTYSC) MS at the Area H Ground. Level Three Coach Winston Smith is the head coach

Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh

coaching programme and have emerged better players for their home clubs and the county. The first three clubs that benefitted during the first week of the 2021 edition were RHTYSC, Port Mourant and Albion. Female cricketers from Rose Hall Metro were also involved in a special

Coach Winston Smith in session with players of the Port Mourant CC

for the programme and he is expected to visit over twenty-two clubs to work with youths. BCB President Hilbert Foster stated that the programme has been very successful in the past as it has enabled the board to identify new players for the future.

Over the last three years, over one thousand junior cricketers have been involved in the

session with Coach Smith.

Special emphasis was played on batting, bowling, fielding and physical fitness in the intense four hours sessions at the respective grounds. Among the other clubs that would benefit from regular sessions are Rose Hall Canje, Tucber Park, Guymaine, East Bank Blazers, Rama Krishna

Foundation, Edinburgh, Kendall Union, Blairmont, Cotton Tree, Bath, Achievers, Mt Sinai, Bush Lot United and No 73 Young Warriors.

The BCB President also stated that two mini cricket academies would be held in the West Berbice and Upper Corentyne areas before the county wide Cricket Academy is held in August for the county top seventy youth players. The academy would be held at the Albion Ground for seven days and would be conducted by a panel of five coaches headed by Smith. The BCB has invested over four hundred thousand dollars in cricket gears and coaching equipment to make sure that all of the programme objectives are achieved.

Foster also disclosed that his board would continue to invest heavily in educational materials like posters and its popular Youth Information Booklet to support the on field coaching sessions while numerous players would benefit from donation of personal cricket gears as part of a comprehensive development programme for Berbice youth players.

Over three hundred youth cricketers are slated to receive donations of gears, bicycles, school materials and uniforms for 2021 from the BCB. Additionally, the very proactive board would be organising cricket tournaments at the Under 13, under 15, under 17, under 19, under 21, under 23 and female levels to make sure that the players have opportunities to showcase their talents.

Sukhram is as calm and as composed as ever

By Timothy Jaikarran

C

hristine Sukhram is one of Guyana’s most outstanding golfers. She has already achieved what many are, to this date, still working towards; and Sukhram has made it clear that she intends to see the game of golf grow in Guyana.

In an exclusive interview with this publication, she was asked for her view on the way the sport is growing in Guyana, especially its rise in schools, and she said, “I have been working on teaching beginners the basic techniques of the sport. I have a few clients I’m working with, and there has been great improvement so far. We’re getting more people involved,

and they are loving it.

“In terms of the sport in schools, I feel very enthusiastic.

It brings me great pleasure to see young people, especially women like myself, getting involved in golf.”

Sukhram has said that with the increase of women in the sport as of recent, she plans to make available her experience and knowledge gained over the years to help grow the game of golf in whatever way she can.

The 9 times open champ has also related that she sees the increase of women in the sport as a good challenge. She notes that there is need for more women to get involved at a competitive level because it would lead to phenomenal growth in the women’s field.

Asked about her achievements and the introduction of golf as a core sport on the CXC curriculum, Sukhram declared, “My achievements have been one of my greatest attributes so far, and I’m looking forward to winning more titles in the future. It’s tremendous to see a great sport like golf being brought and taught in schools, as it’s such a humble…sport to help in the development of an individual, not only physically, but mentally as well.”

Sukhram has been Guyana Open champion 9 times, and has gone on to win many other local tournaments. She is also the women’s champion for Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, and New York.

46

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021

Training in focus for Golden Jags ahead of next two games

W

ith two games down for the Golden Jaguars, the question remains, “What next?”

The Senior Men’s National Team currently have a handful of other engagements scheduled for the remainder of the year, the soonest being June, and according to the Head Coach Marcio Maximo, the team’s training will be continuous and intense.

“Our international players are back to their leagues, and local players will be back in regular training five days per week,” Maximo disclosed to this publication about how soon training will begin for the National Team.

Speaking specifically to

A glimpse of the local Golden Jaguars training setup

the arrangements for local players, Maximo indicated that he does not expect any other commitment to reduce the competitive level at which the

National Team selectees would play.

The Head Coach said, “When the leagues start, you’ll reduce the training, but they’re

still at a competitive level.”

He continued: “Everything is according to a plan, and I repeat that we are very optimistic that we can get to our goals.”

Specifically on the topic of Guyana’s next two CONCACAF Olympic Qualifier Group games, Maximo underscored the importance of having a fit team, which should lend to the success of the Golden Jaguars.

“We should select the players that are in shape, young, to maintain the dynamic of the game. And improve our local players, of course, because the two process comes together,” Maximo commented.

Questioned about what

needs to be done to ensure Guyana walks away with six points after their next two games, Maximo answered, “We need to be very, very exigence about the players abroad, but also you should improve our local players too, with good intensive training.”

Guyana will come up against Group leaders St Kitts and Nevis on June 4, and then Puerto Rico on June 8.

Group F, currently being led

by St Kitts with two wins from two games, sees Trinidad and Tobago in second place after a win and a draw, and Guyana in third with one win. Puerto Rico follows Guyana with one point and the Bahamas currently has no point, following two losses.

First match of Esports Series goes to 'super over'

– Munro emerges victorious over Nedd

T

he first match of the inaugural virtual CPL was a runfilled spectacle, as Trinbago Knight Riders’ Colin Munro emerged victorious against Ashmead Nedd after a Super Over finish.

Amazon Guyana Warriors batted first, and boundaries were flying immediately. Shimron Hetmyer kept the pressure on the bowlers as he dispatched three sixes, but it was Brandon King who was the star player, making 74 (14).

It was left to Dwayne Bravo to bowl the last to try and keep the total down to something that his team could chase with Hetmyer on strike. He took up where King had left off as he too brought up a half century, this one from 11 balls.

The Warriors closed their five overs with a score

of 139/2 and with Munro a self-confessed novice at this game there were few who would have thought he would come close to winning this match.

It wasn’t the perfect start

with the Knight Riders with Lendl Simmons going for 10 from the third ball of their innings. It was when Munro took control of himself that the fireworks started as he hit four sixes in his 25 off 6

balls.

TKR were still behind the rate, even after Sunil Narine hit the first five balls off a Romario Shepherd over and then more sixes coming from the bat of Kieron

Pollard when he faced Imran Tahir.

Going into the last over the Knight Riders needed an improbable 35 to win the game. Darren Bravo made a mockery of that near impossible target, hitting five sixes in a row before a four tied the scores and took it to a Super Over.

Munro batted first in the Super Over and carried on where he had left off, smashing another 33 runs from his six balls with Pollard once again doing damage. That left Nedd’s side needing 34 to win.

As in the match itself, it came down to the last ball.

Nedd needed a six to win it, anything else and Munro would beat his more experienced opponent. Nedd could only manage a four and it was Munro and his TKR team who emerged victorious. (CPLT20.COM)

CLASSIFIED ADS SERVICES BRING BACK LOVED ONES. QUICK RESULTS. CONTACT: 627-0800 Having Problems with Marriage/Love Relationships, Health, Job, Money, Removal of Obstacles of any kind.

Meet me once and change your life.

Address : Georgetown and Grove. Call 688-2135 Solutions to All problems such as – Domestic, Job, Relationships such as :- Marriage , Love Relations. Removal of blockages and Bad Luck. Call for Appointment – 592 696 8222.

Address: Georgetown or Vreed-enHoop.

Master Sanjeev Hc Solve Problems – Love, Marriage, Relationships, Money, Business, Job, Generation, Crush, Bring back Ex-Lover, Blockages, Bad Luck, Jealous and more. Contact : 592 633-2394. Address : Campbellville, Georgetown.

TAXI SERVICE

GR Taxi

227-1982, 225-7878 219-5000, 227-2100 Wanted: Contract Cars Tel: 614-6202

VACANCY One (1) Security Guard. Male.

From 4pm to 7am in the morning.

Contact: Sookraj Jewellery: 223-6156/612-2125.

Classified Ads $5+VAT per word

Call: 223-7230-1 Ext 50

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021

47

Sri Lanka vs West Indies series

Fifties from Dimuth Karunaratne, Oshada Fernando ensure series ends at 0-0

D

imuth Karunaratne hit 75 and soaked up 176 deliveries in a century stand with Lahiru Thirimanne, and Oshada Fernando struck an unbeaten half-century of his own later in the day, as Sri Lanka comfortably batted out a draw in Antigua.

Missing Shannon Gabriel for part of the day due to a hamstring complaint, West Indies were able only to take two Sri Lanka wickets on a pitch that had become slower and lower for the quicks, and yet did not take substantial turn for the spinners. Only the occasional delivery misbehaved, and that was usually out of the rough.

Each of the four Sri Lanka batsmen who came to the crease in this innings appeared comfortable. Even if the quicks occasionally took the edge, the ball was likely to die well before it reached the slip cordon, as long as it had been played with soft hands.

Rahkeem Cornwall, meanwhile, threatened the inside edge with his straighter deliveries, but none of the thick edges was a viable catch for the fielder at short leg. At no stage was there the dramatic, fast turn - often seen in South Asia on the fifth day - to add venom to the slow bowlers.

It was the 101-run opening stand that laid the platform for

Dimuth Karunaratne and Lahiru Thirimanne added 101 for the first wicket

Sri Lanka’s successful resistance.

Thirimanne was dropped on 17 in the third over of the day when wicketkeeper Joshua da Silva failed to grasp a straightforward leg-side chance off the bowling of Gabriel. But, otherwise, the openers were secure right through that session, defending resolutely and finding regular runs into the outfield, mostly square of the wicket.

Karunaratne was especially adept at shuffling across the stumps, closing his bat, and hitting into leg-side gaps. In fact, 55 of his runs (73%) came on that side of the pitch, with all but one of his nine boundaries scored there. He completed a half-century shortly before lunch, having hit some memorable ondrives, to go with his leg-side flicks.

Thirimanne was more cautious, venturing only two

boundaries in the morning, perhaps pushed to reticence by the early chance he gave up. When he was dismissed for 39 off 114 nicking a full Alzarri Joseph delivery to first slip where Cornwall took a sharp, low catch, Karunaratne slowed down too.

Although at times in his innings Karunaratne was striking at over 50, his eventual strike rate was 43.

Sri Lanka had very clearly decided the target of 377 was going to be too much of a stretch (it always seemed extremely unlikely).

Oshada, likewise, did not seem to be overly troubled either by the pitch or West Indies’ depleted attack. He hit out only against the truly wayward balls, picking up frequent singles in between the big shots. He scored more quickly than the openers, reaching his half-century off

the 86th ball he faced, but then buckled down soon after. He was 66 not out from 119 deliveries when Kraigg Brathwaite decided no result was possible and the match was called off.

With Karunaratne having been dismissed by Kyle Mayers late in the second session, Oshada had Dinesh Chandimal for company for the 20 overs that were played in the third session. Chandimal made 10 off 66 deliveries.

In the end, this refusal of the Antigua surface to take substantial spin even at the back end of both Tests allowed teams to bat confidently in the fourth innings, greatly reducing the chance of a result. The footmarks did not play a substantial role, and spinners did not become seriously threatening in either Test.

The 0-0 result means Sri Lanka failed to win any of their series in the Caribbean, having lost the T20Is 2-1 and the ODIs 3-0. They do maintain their No. 7 ranking in Tests, however, keeping West Indies at eight.

(ESPNcricinfo)

Suranga Lakmal has been named player of the series

SCOREBOARD SRI LANKA 2ND INNINGS (TARGET: 377 RUNS) Lahiru Thirimanne c Cornwall b Joseph 39 Dimuth Karunaratne (c) lbw b Mayers 75 Oshada Fernando not out 66 Dinesh Chandimal not out 10 Extras (lb 1, nb 1, w 1) 3 TOTAL (79 Ov, RR: 2.44) 193/2 Did not bat: Dhananjaya de Silva, Pathum Nissanka, Niroshan Dickwella †, Suranga Lakmal, Lasith Embuldeniya, Dushmantha

Chameera, Vishwa Fernando Fall of wickets: 1-101 (Lahiru Thirimanne, 38.3 ov), 2-146 (Dimuth Karunaratne, 55.5 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W 12-2-33-0 Kemar Roach Jason Holder 10-3-24-0 Rahkeem Cornwall 26.4-8-53-0 Shannon Gabriel 5.2-2-20-0 Alzarri Joseph 10-2-33-1 Jermaine Blackwood 6-1-17-0 Kraigg Brathwaite 3-0-7-0 Kyle Mayers 6-4-5-1

SUNDAY, APRIL 4, 2021

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Page 46

Dimuth Karunaratne (L) and Kraigg Brathwaite (R) share the trophy at the end of the 5th and final day of the 2nd Test

Sri Lanka vs West Indies series

Page 47

Fifties from Dimuth Training in focus for Karunaratne, Oshada Fernando Golden Jags ahead ensure series ends at 0-0 of next two games Page 45

Page 46

First match of Esports Sukhram leading the way Series goes to 'super over'

– one of few pioneers aiming to grow golf in Guyana – Munro emerges victorious over Nedd GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - marketing@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.