Guyana Times - Thursday January 7, 2021

Budget 2021 will lay P13 foundation for economic transformation – AG Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4521

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Guyana’s future bright with oil & gas — Greenidge … says public support necessary for strengthening institutions See story on page 3

Region 10 Applicant now claims pensioner is latest he was duped into COVID-19 death taking State to court …29 new cases recorded

Haitians' High Court case

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

2-year-old dies while playing P2 Bartica triple murder

Man who set P8 wife, children on fire remanded

Page 2

Page 7

NDC Chairpersons Gunmen urged to respect, open serve citizens fire on Ponzi scheme couple’s home Page 15

Page 12

Chairperson of Macedonia/Joppa NDC, Bibi Hardyal

Chairperson of Canefield/ Enterprise NDC, Sherryann Beharry

Chairperson of the Lancaster/Hogstye NDC, Sharron Smith

Armed men P10 hijack WCD taxi

More senior cops move to Court P10 to challenge Police 2020 promotions La Penitence man wanted for clothes vendor’s murder P11

Missing 150 guns

TSU ranks detained now under open arrest — Crime Chief …probe, further audit continue See story on page 9

US Congress in turmoil as violent Trump supporters storm Capitol Hill, 1 dead …“It's insurrection” – President-elect Biden Page 17

Infrastructural P9 works in 18 new housing schemes to finish in February

2 NEWS Region 10 pensioner is latest COVID-19 death THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…29 new cases recorded

T

he Health Ministry has reported that another person who tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has died.

This now takes the total number of deaths from the COVID-19 pandemic to 167.

The latest fatality is an 85-year-old man from Region 10 (Upper DemeraraUpper Berbice) who died on

Tuesday while receiving care at a medical facility.

According to the Ministry, its officials have contacted all relatives and persons to facilitate contact tracing and rapid assistance

to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), as of Wednesday, some 84,780,171 confirmed cases were reported globally along with 1,853,525 deaths.

to everyone who may have been exposed to the now-deceased man.

Guyana’s last COVID-19 deaths were recorded on Sunday when a 70-yearold from Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and an 85-year-old from Region 10, died while receiving care at a medical facility.

2-year-old dies while playing

New cases

Meanwhile, the Ministry also reported on Wednesday that 29 new COVID-19 cases have been detected.

According to the updated COVID-19 dashboard, the number of confirmed cases in the country has now gone up to 6436.

However, only 286 of these are active cases. These include four patients in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the remaining 282 in isolation, that is, 20 persons in institutional isolation and the other 262 in home isolation.

There are also 46 persons in institutional quarantine.

Additionally, the number of persons who have recovered from the life-threatening viral disease has increased to 5983 – 35 more recoveries than the figure reported the previous day.

Meanwhile, some 39,565

WHO also reported on Wednesday that in the Region of the Americas, that is, Latin America and the Caribbean, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has increased to 37,188,572 while the death toll has gone up to 882,431.

persons have been tested for the novel coronavirus in Guyana to date.

Of the 29 new cases detected on Wednesday, nine are from Region One (Barima-Waini), two from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), seven cases from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), five from Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), three from East Berbice-Corentyne and another three from Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

The figures for the other four regions remained the same.

Since taking office, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government

has embarked on a massive testing drive to ensure that all positive cases, especially asymptomatic cases, are detected. This has resulted in a high number of cases being detected.

Nevertheless, Guyanese are reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures (No 13), which are in effect until January 31, 2021.

This order emphasises, among other things, the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home, the importance of maintaining six feet of physical distance from others, and the need for good hand hygiene

T

wo-year-old Orlando Smith of Lower Kaituma, North West District (NWD), Region One (Barima-Waini) collapsed and died on Tuesday while playing with his cousin.

Police have since launched an investigation into the child’s death, which occurred about 12:00h.

Reports are the child, who suffered from epilepsy, resided with his 65-year-old grandfather and 60-year-old grandmother. According to

Police, on Tuesday, the toddler was playing with his six-year-old cousin in the yard and suddenly collapsed on the ground where he remained motionless. The toddler’s grandmother, who was nearby, picked him up and rushed him to the Mabaruma Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The body of the toddler is presently at the Mabaruma Hospital Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

(G9)

NEWS

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, January 7 – 00:30h-02:00h and 11:00h-12:30h and Friday, January 8 – 01:00h-02:30h and 12:30h-14:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, January 7 – 11:15h-12:45h and Friday, January 8 – 12:20h-13:50h.

Guyana’s future bright with oil & gas – Greenidge …says public support necessary for strengthening institutions

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Light showers will prevail during the day and night with instances of thunder. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North North-Easterly to Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

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Carl Greenidge

High Tide: 11:13h and 23:50h reaching maximum heights of 2.39 metres and 2.33 metres.

Low Tide: 17:18h reaching a minimum height of 0.83 metre.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020

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hile criticism continues regarding the management of Guyana’s oil and gas sector, Economist Carl Greenidge, who served on the local content panel that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government set up, believes that Guyana’s future will be a bright one with the sector.

In a recent interview with a local radio station, Greenidge, a former Finance and Foreign Affairs Minister, who now serves as Advisor on Borders in the Foreign Affairs Ministry, was asked for his opinion on the sector.

Greenidge had a message for the naysayers and those critical of Guyana’s oil production at a time when the country is also trying to go green. He declared Guyana’s future is bright, and those oil resources must be developed in order for Guyana to reach its true potential.

“From where I sit, and as an economist, I believe that Guyana’s future is bright.

Whether it is petroleum or gold or diamonds, or daffodils or chrysanthemums, any asset or resource that you have which generates a lot of income requires that it be properly managed. So, the so-called curses don’t arise from the product, they arise from how you manage it.

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COMMODITIES Indicators Crude Oil Rough Rice London Sugar

US$ $54.30/barrel $228.60/ton $443.40/ton

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Change % +1.29 +0.25 +1.39

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1915.20

$1916.20

Low/High Change

$1900.50 -3.10

$1959.30 -0.16%

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

“And if you start off believing that you should not exploit petroleum because the rest of the world is blighted by it…you’re not going to get very far. Our task is not to exploit resources, but to ensure that these resources, which are public goods, are managed collectively.”

Greenidge also noted the importance of developing institutions that can adequately manage the oil sector. According to him, building capacity benefits from the public buy-in, and is undermined not only by the politicians, but also the permeation of “doom and gloom.”

“The types of strengthening of our institutions to which you make reference, are undermined in part by the attitude of the public and the public’s voices, as well as the inadequacy of politicians,” he said. “So, you identify an institution to be reformed. Somebody is appointed to the institution with a mandate not to do anything, and you don’t get the product you want. There is therefore no silver bullet.

“We have to address these problems at all the different levels at which they arrive. It is not only a problem of politicians”.

Guyana, with oil giant ExxonMobil as operator, began producing oil on December 20, 2019 in the Stabroek block, lifting its first million barrels of profit oil from the Liza1 well in February 2020.

Oil tanker Cap Phillippe transported this lift from the Liza Destiny Floating,

Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, allowing Guyana to receive its first payment the next month.

That money, GY$11.4 billion, constituted Guyana’s first oil revenue-based earnings from production in the Liza field. It was deposited in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York in March of that year.

An additional sum of G$7.3 billion was subsequently deposited, as well as royalty payments. However, this money has remained untouched, as the protracted political crisis that followed the March 2nd General and Regional Elections sabo-

taged any attempt to set up a system for withdrawing funds.

The Natural Resource Fund Act stipulates that various committees must be established to provide oversight for the fund. It is expected that this legislation will be reviewed by the current Government this year.

When it comes to building capacity, the Government has also set its sights on setting up a Petroleum Commission that would manage the sector, while building capacity at the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to audit the oil companies drilling offshore Guyana. (G3)

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guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

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

Decade of Healthy Ageing

T

he World Health Organisation (WHO), in December 2020, published its Baseline Report for the Decade of Healthy Ageing, which included useful insights into the status of the world’s older populations, and what health authorities and policymakers and international development partners could do in order to ensure this group of people are not left behind.

According to the report, at least 14 per cent of all people aged 60 years and over – more than 142 million people – are currently unable to meet all their basic daily needs. The report brings together data available for measuring healthy ageing, defined by WHO as “the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables well-being in older age”.

WHO Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus notes that humans now live longer than at any time in history.

“But adding more years to life can be a mixed blessing if it is not accompanied by adding more life to years,” he said.

He said the Baseline Report for the Decade of Healthy Ageing has the potential to transform the way policy-makers and multiple service-providers engage with older adults. The report also discusses what is needed to promote collaboration and better measure progress towards healthy ageing.

WHO says that optimising “functional ability” is the goal of the Decade of Healthy Ageing, which begins in 2021 and addresses five interrelated abilities that all older people should enjoy: the ability to meet basic needs; to continue to learn and make decisions; to be mobile; to build and maintain relationships; and to contribute to society.

The Baseline Report presents the experience of countries which have been successful in starting healthy ageing initiatives in each of these areas, such as Ireland, Mexico and Vietnam. It also stresses that older adults must be engaged throughout.

According to the report, only one-quarter of countries around the world are compiling comparable data which can be used to monitor global progress towards healthy ageing. Some countries that are collecting and using data to improve policies and programmes for and with older persons are presented in the report. These countries are Chile, China, Finland, Ghana, India, Qatar, Singapore, and Thailand.

A number of indicators to be reported on by countries as a demonstration of commitment towards healthy ageing were agreed on by WHO Member States as part of the Global Strategy on Ageing and Health 2016-2020, and endorsed in 2020 within the context of the Decade for Healthy Ageing 2021-2030.

Examples are the establishment of a national committee or forum on ageing; comprehensive assessments of the health and social care needs of older people; and a policy on strengthening longterm care.

It should be stated that the Caribbean has been recognised as having one of the fastest-growing older populations in the developing world. This certainly poses its own challenges, and Governments and other actors would be required to take the necessary measures to ensure that this segment of the population leads healthier and more productive lives.

There is no doubt that among the more pressing issues affecting older persons are health concerns and the quality of care being provided to them on a daily basis. It is, therefore, crucial for Governments to put in place systems which would allow for older persons to obtain the health services they need.

WHO’s new Guidelines on Integrated Care for Older People recommend ways community-based services can help prevent, slow, or reverse declines in physical and mental capacities among older people. The guidelines also require health and social care providers to coordinate their services around the needs of older people through approaches such as comprehensive assessment and care plans.

Director of the Department of Ageing and Life Course at WHO, Dr John Beard, had previously noted that older adults are more likely to experience chronic conditions and often multiple conditions at the same time. Yet today’s health systems generally focus on the detection and treatment of individual acute diseases.

He had reasoned that if health systems are to meet the needs of older populations, they must provide ongoing care focused on the issues that matter to older people – chronic pain, and difficulties with hearing, seeing, walking or performing daily activities. On this basis, he noted that this required much better integration between care providers.

The health authorities in Guyana may want to give serious consideration to recommendations presented in the most recent Baseline Report by WHO.

Ice sculptures are seen at the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival in Harbin, in northeastern China’s Heilongjiang province (AFP)

Better pension payment system needed in 2021

Dear Editor, We must all advocate for the effective inclusion of our elderly citizens and pensioners in preparedness planning and ongoing responses to the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of pension payments for 2021 and onward.

The PPP/C Administration kept its promise to our pensioners by increasing pension to $25,000.

COVID-19 pandemic poses a significant risk to elderly persons. Due to their reduced immunity and the increased likelihood of pre-existing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart diseases and cancers, the infection can lead to severe complications, and even death. It is vital that precautions are taken to minimise the risk of transmitting infection to our elderly persons when they are collecting pensions. Pay points, where our pensioners collect pensions or other cash payments, pose a significant risk of exposure to the virus, as these locations may be crowded and visited by many other different persons doing business other than collecting pensions, who could have the infection, as many continue to disregard the COVID-19 guidelines, disrespect and mistreat our elderly at these locations.

Pension payment agencies, alongside community leaders, our Government and commercial partners, need to take steps to protect our elderly persons at

pay points, and to provide additional guidelines to encourage behavioural changes among the people who visit them. This requires an appropriate and coordinated response in consultation with our elderly and community leaders - who can provide input on how to reach older people across different contexts, and in line with basic human rights.

Administering pension payments during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 will continue to be a challenge.

Payment agencies can take a range of steps to avoid older people’s potential exposure to the virus at pay points, ensuring they are paid first; are in physical contact with fewer people, and are provided with information on COVID-19.

There are several measures already in place that stagger payment days to prevent large groups of people from congregating. Older people should be allowed early morning access to pay points, and should be prioritised over the general population that is also waiting in line for cash transfer payments.

Alternatively, consider having dedicated dates for paying only older persons. On those particular days, other persons who collect cash transfers should be made aware of the schedule, so they do not go to these locations.

If possible, we can pay pensions less frequently,

such as perhaps every two or three months. This should be the full amount for the combined payment period in advance, rather than delaying the combined payment.

Where payments are collected at retail merchants, banks, and other outlets where large numbers of people congregate, reach out to retailers to develop appropriate plans to manage payments and limit physical contact in these areas.

Regular communication with the public and atrisk populations is one of the most important steps to help prevent infections, save lives, and minimise adverse outcomes from COVID-19 with reference to older persons.

Pension providers are in a good position to share public health information, but they should take these considerations into account.

Information, education and communication materials on the virus should be shared at all pension pay points, and where possible, health workers or trained volunteers should be on-site to share information and answer questions.

Despite media outreach, confusion about new processes is still likely, particularly in hard-to-reach rural communities. Staff need to be available outside retailers and pay points to explain the process to those who have concerns.

We must brief community leaders and committees on pension payment ar-

rangements, and organise community health and social workers to share information with all households, particularly in rural settings.

It is important to generate a list of households where older people live, either from pension databases or via community identification. These houses could be targeted in information-sharing campaigns.

Our older citizens must not be stigmatised or discriminated against. All engagement campaigns should include specific measures to reach older people, with practical information to reduce their exposure to the virus. We must remember they are more likely to have low literacy levels, physical or sensory disabilities that prevent them from accessing information or participating in community life, and be less likely to be exposed to mainstream media.

However, with all this being said, our Government must start exploring electronic pension payment systems for the future, as these can eliminate the need for older people to attend pay points, and therefore reduce the risk of exposing them in the future to COVID-19.

Cash cards, mobile-based e-wallets or payments collected at retail merchants are all potential options, depending on the context and capacity.

Sincerely, David Adams

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

5

News

Business registration made easier with hubs in Regions 1, 7

Director of Commerce, Nicola Namdeo

T

he Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry has established two business registration hubs in Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini) and Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), to simplify the business registration process in areas which lack commercial registry and sub-offices.

The Mabaruma hub is located in the Regional Democratic Council office, while the other is stationed in the Bartica Chamber

of Commerce building.

Speaking with DPI, Director of the Department of Commerce, Nicola Namdeo, said this approach would provide businessowners with easier access to key Government services in a more convenient manner.

The hubs were established following the signing of an MoU between the Ministry through its Department of Commerce, and the Commercial Registry.

Namdeo said businessowners can visit the respective offices to submit their applications and pay the requisite fees. With this initiative, the processing time has been reduced to one week, in accordance with the MoU. The MoU for the Mabaruma location was signed on December 29, but while the office in Bartica has been established, the signing of the MoU was delayed due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Namdeo expects the signing to be done soon with the lifting of the restrictions for this new year.

More than 30 businesses are expected to benefit from the service in Bartica. Some 22 businesses are awaiting registration upon the signing of the MoU. In 2017, the then Business

Representatives of the Department of Commerce and Regional Democratic Council during the signing ceremony of the MoU in Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini) Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley is pictured centre (DPI photo)

Ministry has created hubs in Regions Six (East-Berbice Corentyne); Eight (PotaroSiparuta) and Nine (Upper TakatuUpper Essequibo). To date, 773 businesses have registered, while

186 business have renewed their registrations in the respective regions from 2017-2020.

Despite the pandemic, the hubs have continued to function.

However, there was a 13 per cent

decline in the utilisation of the hub for business registration in 2020 compared to 2019. Further, there was a 62 per cent decrease in the number of renewals in 2020 when compared to 2019.

$25,000 COVID-19 cash grant helped my family Dear Editor, As a citizen, I am indeed satisfied that the Government has seen it fit to continue assisting families and communities that are in desperate need as a result of the COVID-19

pandemic and the now recovering economic situation, where jobs are concerned.

This $25,000 relief could not come at a better time for my family - when the holidays are done and there

P

eople appear to be in quest of God; they do not realise that all that they see is permeated by God. All forms are Divine, but because their vision is outwards, they are unable to have the inner vision of the Divine.

Man craves for peace. Though the source of peace and bliss is within himself, he seeks them in the external, like one pursuing a mirage. Owing to restless activity, endless worry and limitless desires, man has lost peace of mind and has become a prey to discontent and misery. At the outset, peace has to be cultivated within ourselves. And then that peace has to be extended to the family. From the home, it should spread to our village. Thus peace should begin with the individual, and spread to the whole society. You have to engage yourselves in service, eschewing every trace of ahamkara (conceit). Our degradation is the result of forgetting God. When we remember God, our life will be filled with peace and happiness! (Divine Discourse, Mar 23, 1989)

Shri Sathya Sai Baba Organisation

is not a penny left, because of how things have been since March 2020. This relief has helped me to start back my year. It has helped me to pay two bills, so I can live throughout this month.

I am grateful to the

team that dealt with me professionally. It didn’t matter that I am not from their party or of similar ethnic persuasion. There was a sense of urgency and delight to hand over the cash.

This is a good initiative that

is helping those in need.

I could only imagine what this grant means to the people who are jobless and poor. The grant must be replicated from some other source, to aid the household with the essentials that it

needs looking after. Maybe the Government can make it $50,000 from the oil money or some other source, the next time.

Yours respectfully, Attiya Baksh

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page

Foundation ◄

Æsop’s Fables

FOR CHILDREN

Tree Diagrams

A

tree diagram can be used to show possible combinations of people, places, or things. It looks like a set of trees with branches.

Example: At a school cookout, you can buy a ticket that allows you to choose one main item, and one side dish. The tree diagram shows the possible combinations.

How many possible combinations could there be if you could also order chips as a side?

Add chips as a branch on each item.

Since there are 3 items, add 9 + 3 = 12.

2) Below is the tree diagram of the choices at the lunch you are going to attend. If you don’t like salad, how many different meal combinations can you select from?

Exercises: Interpret 1) How many different outcomes are there in the tree diagram?

Wednesday’s answers 1).

2).

To find out how many possible combinations there are, count the number of branches. In this example, there are nine branches.

M

obiles often look effortless as they balance gracefully in the air. But balancing anything – whether it is a mobile or the powers of government – is hard

work!

Learn more about balance in our government when you make a mobile that represents its three branches.

Supplies

• Scissors • Yarn or twine • Rubber bands • Three sticks that are roughly the same length (20 inches long is a good size).

Choose sticks with several twigs in the middle of the stick. Use bamboo skewers if you can’t find sticks.

• Construction paper • Crayons and markers • A computer and printer (optional)

Let’s get started!

Head outside to collect some sticks. While you are looking for sticks, think about the various meanings and usage of

the word branch – it’s not just the limb of a tree! “Branch” is used to describe a related part of a larger system — such as a branch library or the three branches of government.

Bring your three sticks inside and arrange them into a triangle with the ends of the sticks overlapping. Arrange the sticks so that any short twigs are on the outside edges of the triangle. The Government has three branches that share the power, privilege and responsibility – the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary.

Cut a length of yarn that is twice as long as one of the sticks. With one end of the yarn lash two sticks together. Use the other end of the yarn to lash the next corner of the base of the triangle. Cut another length of yarn that is twice as long as the sticks. Use one end to lash the remaining sticks together. Pull the remaining yarn through the centre point of the first yarn length you tied. Pull all the yarn pieces up together and you should have a pyramid. Secure a knot in the top of the pyramid and use the remaining yarn tail for hanging the mobile.

Create “leaves” of construction paper and on them describe each branch of the Government. On the leaves, you can draw pictures that illustrate or symbolise the branches, write information about what each branch does, and include the roles and people involved in each branch. (Adapted from startwithabook.org)

O

ne day, a long time ago, an old miller and his son were on their way to market with an ass which they hoped to sell. They drove him very slowly, for they thought they would have a better chance to sell him if they kept him in good condition. As they walked along the highway some travellers laughed loudly at them.

“What foolishness,” cried one, “to walk when they might as well ride. The most stupid of the three is not the one you would expect it to be.”

The miller did not like to be laughed at, so he told his son to climb up and ride.

They had gone a little farther along the road, when three merchants passed by.

“Oho, what have we here?” they cried. “Respect old age, young man! Get down, and let the old man ride.”

Though the miller was not tired, he made the boy get down and climbed up himself to ride, just to please the merchants.

At the next turnstile they overtook some women carrying market baskets loaded with vegetables and other things to sell.

“Look at the old fool,” exclaimed one of them.

“Perched on the ass, while that poor boy has to walk.”

The miller felt a bit vexed, but to be agreeable he told the boy to climb up behind him.

They had no sooner started out again than a loud shout went up from another company of people on the road.

“What a crime,” cried one, “to load up a poor dumb beast like that! They look more able to carry the poor creature, than he to carry them.”

“They must be on their way to sell the poor thing’s hide,” said another.

The miller and his son quickly scrambled down, and a short time later, the market place was thrown into an uproar as the two came along carrying the donkey slung from a pole. A great crowd of people ran out to get a closer look at the strange sight.

The ass did not dislike being carried, but so many people came up to point at him and laugh and shout, that he began to kick and bray, and then, just as they were crossing a bridge, the ropes that held him gave way, and down he tumbled into the river.

The poor miller now set out sadly for home. By trying to please everybody, he had pleased nobody, and lost his ass besides.

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Haitians' High Court case

Applicant now claims he was duped into taking State to court

Applicant Allandres Archer

A

llandres Archer, the applicant in the case against the Government over the detention of 26 Haitian nationals, has now come forward revealing that he wants to be withdrawn from the case, and even alleging that he was duped into filing the case against the State.

Archer made these stunning revelations in an on-camera interview on Wednesday, Archer said he had no intention to take the State, with Attorney General and Senior Counsel Anil Nandlall as respondent, to court.

He claimed that he never asked the lawyer representing the Haitians, Attorneyat-Law Darren Wade, to put him as an applicant or to represent him. Archer, who described himself as a businessman that facilitated the Haitians after they arrived in Guyana, said he was only supposed to be a witness in the case.

“After they made contact with me, I was to give Darren Wade an affidavit of what happened, to be a

witness. And then it ended up with me as the person taking the Government to court, which I never agreed to. I never wanted any part of it. I asked him to withdraw my name. He then did a Power of Attorney to represent the people in court, and when the settlement came, I would obtain it. I didn’t want any part of it.

I’m a businessman,” Archer said.

Archer explained that in his line of business, he deals with travel agencies throughout the Caribbean, and as such, this was how he first became involved in the matter of the Haitians.

According to him, he was at the same hotel as the Haitians after being contacted regarding tickets, when he was arrested along with the Haitians.

“I was detained for 72 hours, then I got released on bail. And then, a few days after, the Haitian Society started to make enquiries and I told them what happened. Then they asked me to give Darren Wade an affidavit of being a witness to what happened. And that is what I agreed on. But to take this Government to court, or to fight on behalf of the Haitians, was never my intention.

“I did indicate to Wade that I wanted my name to be removed…When I said in the first place I didn’t hire him, he started showing me all these legal documents.

And when I looked at it, I saw my signature there.

That wasn’t my intention,” he said.

The

Must withdraw

businessman

warned that if Attorney Wade does not withdraw his name from the proceedings, he would seek legal advice on the way forward. But he

The Haitians have since disappeared from the guesthouse at which they were staying

Attorney Darren Wade

made it clear that he has never knowingly requested for Wade to represent him in the case, and he is determined for his name to be withdrawn as applicant.

Steadfastly denied

This publication, meanwhile, contacted Wade, who steadfastly denied the allegations levelled by Archer.

According to him, Archer had never communicated his desire to be removed from the case. In fact, Wade said, Archer knowingly signed the relevant documents acknowledging him as his Attorney-at-Law. “Mr Archer would have gotten the documents whereby he appointed me to act as his attorney. He would have signed those documents. And I’m happy that those documentation had to be filed based upon the court rules,” Wade said.

“The court rules are

clear, and he would have (sworn a statement) and so forth. Matter of fact, the date the matter was heard, he was sent the link and he was present. Mr Archer was present on the first occasion when the matter was called, and he made no objection.

And I’m prepared to file legal proceedings against Mr Archer and media entities,” Wade said in defending himself.

The 26 Haitians were suspected to be victims of human trafficking, and were detained by the Guyana Police Force and subsequently placed in protective custody at the Hugo Chávez Centre since November 2020.

It was reported that 13 of the Haitians were first

picked up by Police, acting on reasonable suspicion and information, at a hotel on South Road and taken to be interviewed by agents of the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) unit.

The remainder were picked up on November 8 after being intercepted at a Police roadblock in Linden. At the time, the Police became suspicious that they were being smuggled to Brazil through the Georgetown-Lethem route.

Chief Magistrate Sherdel Issacs-Marcus had subsequently issued deportation orders after being approached by the Immigration Office.

However, the Association of Haitian Nationals in Guyana successfully ap-

proached acting Chief Justice Roxane George on December 3 to block the deportation until the constitutionality of their detention came up for the hearing of arguments.

Before that hearing with Archer as the applicant, however, the 26 Haitians suddenly vanished. When this publication visited the guest house they were staying at last month, it was confirmed that the 26 Haitians, including children, were no longer there.

Guyana Times was told that on December 17, two Route 94 mini-buses (which operate the Georgetown to Lethem route) picked up all the Haitians from the South Road, Georgetown building and left.

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Bartica triple murder

Man who set wife, children on fire remanded

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enford Downer, the man who is accused of setting his house ablaze with his wife and children inside, was on Wednesday remanded to prison on three counts of murder.

Downer appeared before Magistrate Crystal Lambert at the Vreed-en-Hoop Magistrate’s Court slapped with three murder charges.

It is alleged that on December 12, 2020, at Four Miles Squatting Area, Bartica-Potaro Road, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni)

Criminal minds...

I Dead: Carolina Kennedy, five-year-old Mariana Downer, and three-year-old Gabriella Kennedy

Charged: Kenford Downer

Downer murdered 48-yearold Carolina Kennedy, fiveyear-old Mariana Downer and three-year-old Gabriella Kennedy.

According to reports, on December 12, Downer reportedly heard his reputed wife talking on the phone with a male and became enraged. At about 21:30h, the Police received a report from an unknown caller that the couple’s house was on fire. However, when they arrived at the scene, the wooden structure was completely engulfed in flames. When the flames were put out by the Guyana Fire Service, the charred remains of the mother and her two children were found in a corner of the burnt rubble.

The suspect was subsequently found in the bushes near the house, and was arrested. He was admitted at the Bartica Hospital for minor burns to his feet.

Downer has been remanded to prison and the case will continue on January 27.

...in Guyana t’s now been four months since the three W.Berbice youths - first the Henry cousins Isaiah and Joel, then Haresh Singh - were brutally murdered. Their relatives and all Guyana are praying that these cases be solved ASAP - if for nothing else than bringing closure to the bereaved families as to why their children were so violently snatched away.

But there’s another reason for a quick wrapping up of the case. As we know, opportunistic PNC Leader David Granger and Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon had rushed to one of the grief-stricken Henry homes and had made wild and unsubstantiated POLITICAL connections to the murder of the cousins. Following that incendiary statement, all hell broke loose on West Berbice when Indian-Guyanese - equated with “PPP supporters” - were violently assaulted in widespread protests along the Public Road. Haresh was then murdered. Even though one of the PNC factions called for peace, the country remains on edge because other PNC elements have kept up drumbeats of a racial/political nexus with the Henrys’ murders.

The Guyana Police - assisted by the CariCom RSS - conducted an investigation of the crime scene and determined that the murders of the Henry boys - whose bodies were brutally hacked and “Xs” carved into their heads – weren’t committed where the bodies were found.

They arrested some locals - including relatives of Haresh but soon released them. An autopsy was conducted and crime scene samples were sent to and received from the St Lucia Forensic Lab, but these didn’t provide any clues as to the perpetrators of the heinous crimes.

The GHRA emerged from its hibernation to demand that a team of Argentinian Anthropological Forensic scientists be flown in to investigate. Since this team focuses on IDENTIFYING randomly discovered murdered bodies and the three murdered youths were known, there was some skepticism as to what exactly they could do. The only area they might’ve helped in was if DNA material from the crime scene needed to be checked to discover if they were from others than the murdered youths. The Leader of the Argentine team did come to Guyana, visited the crime scene and requested some documentation from the Police. The latter promised to share materials/info from the crime scene and the autopsy, but the offer hasn’t been taken up to date. The Government had always explained they’d asked the US and Britain for assistance, since these were ongoing relationships.

The FBI just responded, and will be offering assistance in some required area to solve the crime.

Progress and hope! …and psychological profiling One area of law enforcement that the FBI’s justifiably famous for is the psychological profiling of perpetrators of violent crimes - performed by their Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). They routinely receive requests from foreign police, and we hope that it’s this unit that’s being engaged. Unlike the Argentine Anthropological Forensic team, which specialises in identification, the FBI forensic psychologists detect and classify the major personality and behavioural characteristics of criminals based upon analysis of the crime committed. We don’t have to be fans of “Criminal Minds” to know that these are the folks we need to solve these crimes.

It takes a particular mindset to butcher the youths as was done. Typically, the profiling will be in five phases – 1: An assimilation phase, where all information from the crime scene and autopsy is analysed; 2: The “classification stage”, to integrate the above information into a framework which essentially classifies the murderer as “organized” or “disorganized”. 3: Reconstructing the behavioural sequence of the crime; 4: Identifying the perpetrators “signature” - eg whether this was a professional killer; 5: Check if the murder was “staged” as it appears the Henrys’ were.

Eleven a layman can tell Haresh was murdered by someone else. …and intellectual authors Anyone with even a cursory familiarity with Guyana’s political history would know that our politics is as dirty as can be.

Which political party “profited” from the murders?

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

NEWS

Missing 150 guns

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TSU ranks detained now under open arrest – Crime Chief …probe, further audit continue

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he investigation into the more than 150 guns that were discovered missing from the possession of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) during an audit last year continues even as the ranks arrested last year remain under open arrest.

This was confirmed when Guyana Times made contact with Crime Chief, Senior Superintendent of Police, Wendell Blanhum, on Wednesday. Blanhum explained that while the investigation continues into the disappearance of the guns, some additional work is being done by auditors.

“The investigations are continuing, but the auditors are doing a further and more comprehensive audit,” Blanhum explained, in a brief interview with this publication.

It was reported last year

Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum

that six Tactical Special Unit (TSU) ranks were in custody over the disappearance of the weapons. When asked, Blanhum noted that the ranks were currently under open arrest and reporting to their superiors.

“Open arrest, when the 72 hours expired, we usually accommodate (the Police) at the TSU and we have

them reporting to the investigators whenever the need arises until the investigation is completed,” he said.

An audit last year into the GPF had revealed that in excess of 150 firearms had vanished over the past few years during the tenure of the former Government.

It is understood that these weapons were either seized from criminals and were to be exhibits in cases, or were firearms lodged by private citizens.

Under the previous A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government, Khemraj Ramjattan – who served as Public Security Minister – had had oversight of the GPF. Efforts to contact him on the matter have proved futile.

In the past, guns that have gone missing from the hands of the Joint

The missing guns were in the possession of the Police

Services have subsequently been linked to criminal activities. During the 2018 Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the Lindo Creek Massacre, it was revealed that a number of weapons and ammunition which were stolen in February 2006 were later used in the commission of various crimes.

The 2019 audit into the

Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) is the last time an audit was conducted into the operations of the Police Force. That audit had turned up a heap of financial irregularities, and ultimately resulted in the removal of the then SOCU Head, Sydney James.

The probe into the operations of the white-collar crime-fighting unit was

triggered when the former British adviser to SOCU, Dr Sam Sittlington, made a number of startling allegations against the Unit.

James was subsequently subjected to questioning over allegations of improper spending, as part of the investigation and audit, which stemmed from the termination of the services of the British adviser.

In February 2018, during his address at the opening of the Annual Police Officers’ Conference, then President David Granger had called for an incorruptible Police Force.

He had said that security sector reform, which his administration was committed to and was working on implementing, would seek to tackle this issue that is plaguing the country’s premier law enforcement agency. (G3)

Infrastructural works in 18 new housing schemes to finish in February

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ousing and Water Ministry’s– Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) is expecting infrastructural works being executed in 18 new housing schemes in Regions Four (DemeraraMahaica); Five (MahaicaBerbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) are on schedule for completion in February. The works include the construction of access roads and bridges, and the clearing of lands in Prospect, Providence, Little Diamond/Great Diamond on the East Coast Demerara, and La Bonne Intention, Strathspey, Bladen Hall and Mon Repos on the East

CH&PA’s Director of Projects, Omar Narine

Bank Demerara.

In an interview with the DPI on Wednesday, CH&PA’s Director of

Projects, Omar Narine said these works are expected to be completed by the first week in February.

Similar works are also ongoing in Experiment in Region Five, and Number 75, Number 79, Ordinance/ Fortlands and Hampshire and Williamsburg in Region six.

The agency also received funds to drill two new wells to supply some of the areas with potable water. Narine said these projects, which are being done in collaboration with the Guyana Water Authority, are about 60 per cent complete.

“For those 18 areas, we are purchasing trans-

formers and electrical line hardware materials so that when we get on to the land, we can install the electrical network and the water network simultaneously,” Narine added.

He explained that these works are part of the first phase of infrastructural works in those areas.

In the 2021 budget, the agency is requesting more funds to complete the internal road networks in

these housing schemes.

Additionally, infrastructural works are ongoing in existing housing areas in Regions Three and Four.

Once these are completed, the communities will officially be handed over to the respective Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC).

“We are trying to consolidate some of the infrastructure there and hand over to the NDC where-

by we are currently doing works in Zeelugt, Parfaite Harmonie, Belle West, Farm, Covent Garden, Providence, Herstelling, Good Hope, Nonpareil and Mon Repos. Works are ongoing in all those areas and are slated to be completed

by January 31.”

Some $1.7 billion from Budget 2020 was allocated to the CHPA for land acquisition and to make serviced lots available.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

More senior cops move to Court to challenge Police 2020 promotions

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our more Senior Police officers have moved to the High Court to challenge the promotion of several of their colleagues by the Police Service Commission (PSC).

Those challenging the promotions are Deputy Superintendent of Police Ravindra Stanley, Superintendent of Police Shivpersaud Bacchus, Assistant Superintendent of Police Shavon Jupiter, and Inspector of Police Prem Narine.

The PSC is headed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Paul Slowe.

By Article 212 of the Constitution, the PSC has the power to make appointments to any office in the Guyana Police Force above the rank of Inspector, and theirs is the power to exercise disciplinary control over persons holding or acting in such offices.

These individual cases come weeks after Senior Superintendent of Police Calvin Brutus filed an application asking the court, among other things, to order the PSC to promote him to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police. He claimed he was bypassed for promotion owing to a frivolous allegation of indiscipline against him.

He is also asking for an order of Certiorari quashing, nullifying and/or cancelling the decision of the PSC to promote three Senior Superintendents who, like him, have pending disciplinary matters, to the office of Assistant Commissioner of Police. He

Senior Superintendent of Police, Calvin Brutus

is also asking the court to overrule the PSC’s practice of not promoting officers with pending disciplinary matters.

Denied and rejected

Meanwhile, Deputy Superintendent Stanley is the officer in charge of one of the investigative units at the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). In court documents seen by this publication, Stanley disclosed that on November 21, 2020, he was recommended for promotion to Superintendent of Police by the Senior Promotion Board of the Guyana Police Force.

According to him, the Senior Promotion Board identified and recommended 14 Deputy and Assistant Superintendents for promotion to the office of Superintendent of Police, and he is the second most senior serving Deputy Superintendent on the list.

He said that on December 16, 2020, he received information that his recommendation by the Commissioner of Police for promotion was denied and rejected by the PSC based on a pending disciplinary matter against him.

He said the disciplinary matter against him remains under investigation, and he is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise. In this regard, he contends that the allegations of breach of discipline made against him are “wholly frivolous, and completely lack any merit.”

Prior to 2020, he added, he had never been cited, charged, or found guilty of any indiscipline or offence.

“By its conduct, the [PSC] has adopted the practice and policy not to promote Police officers with pending disciplinary complaints, regardless of the nature or seriousness of such complaints. Trivial and unsubstantiated complaints have been accorded the same weight as grave or serious allegations of indiscipline in denying the promotion to those against whom disciplinary complaints have been lodged.”

The senior Police officer further contends that the PSC abdicated its function by the delay it created in the resolution of the complaint made against him, which is still pending determination.

He argued that the PSC was under a duty to ensure that investigations were concluded expeditiously if it intended to rely on such pending allegations of indiscipline to deny promotion to those recommended for, or otherwise entitled to, promotion.

According to him, two Deputy Superintendents of Police; namely, Timothy Williams and Colin Henry, who were recommended for promotion and appointment by the PSC, were deemed unsuitable and not eligible

Deputy Superintendent of Police, Ravindra Stanley

for promotion by the Senior Promotion Board of the Police Force.

Against this backdrop, he submitted, the decision of the PSC is fundamentally unfair and unreasonable.

He argues that the PSC’s failure to promptly investigate the matter against him created substantial unfairness in the promotion

process, and renders its decision unlawful.

Through his lawyer, C.V. Satram, Deputy Superintendent Stanley contends that the PSC violated his fundamental rights to equality of treatment and equal protection of the law as guaranteed under Article 149D of the Constitution when it promoted ranks who are junior to him, and who have served less time in the Force than him.

In an affidavit, he outlined that he is the holder of a Diploma in Industrial Relations and Management, a Diploma in Public Management, and a Bachelor of Social Science Degree in Public Management.

He added that he also holds a Certificate in Strategic Planning Unit (SPU), and is currently reading for a Commonwealth Master’s Degree in Public Administration at the University of Guyana.

Among other things, Stanley is asking the court for an Order of Certiorari quashing, nullifying, and/or vacating the decision of the PSC to supersede and promote ahead of him Deputy Superintendents Williams and Henry. Further, he is seeking a Consequential Order directing the PSC to appoint him to the office of Superintendent of Police.

The senior Police officer also wants the court to award him damages, interests, costs, and such further and other orders as may be just. His three colleagues have listed similar grounds in their application.

Concerning the action filed by Brutus, Chief Justice Roxane George has granted a conservatory order halting the promotions of several officers by the PSC until she pronounces on the complaints put forward by him.

This matter comes up for another hearing next Tuesday, January 12, 2020.

Armed men hijack WCD taxi

A

The car that was hijacked

39-year-old taxi driver is now counting his losses after he was robbed by two men who had hired him to take them to La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WCD).

Reports are that the incident occurred at about 21:10h on Tuesday in the vi-

cinity of Policeman Corner, La Parfaite Harmonie, WBD. The taxi driver, of Anna Catherina, WCD, told Police that he would usually operate his Toyota Spacio, PNN 2814, at New Road, Vreeden-Hoop. He related that he picked up two masked men

opposite the West Demerara Regional Hospital, and they asked to be taken to La Parfaite Harmonie.

According to the Police, when the taxi driver reached the destination, one of the men directed him to stop near a heap of sand, and the suspect in the front seat of the car exited. The other suspect, who was in the back seat of the car, put his neck in a vice grip and placed a gun to his neck. The driver was ordered to remain quiet while the other suspect who had exited the car pointed another gun at him and searched him for valuables.

Narine was robbed of his Toyota Spacio car that cost just over $1.4M, along with one gold wedding band valued $75,000, his Samsung Galaxy cellular phone valued $86,000 and $10,000 in cash. He was left stranded, but raised and alarm and subsequently reported the matter to the Police.

An investigation has been launched. (G9)

NEWS

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Cash-strapped City Hall manages to La Penitence man reduce $100M garbage collection debt wanted for clothes …to self-collect garage in 3 of 11 wards

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espite complaining of being cash-strapped and begging the Government for a bailout, the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is ringing in the New Year with a deep debt off its shoulders.

According to Deputy Mayor Alfred Mentore, the M&CC has been able to significantly clear its $100 million debt to garbage collection contractors.

Late last year, Mayor Ubraj Narine had disclosed that the M&CC was facing over half a billion dollars in debt which was still piling up. Of this sum, he said that $100 million was owed to garbage collection contrac-

ly complete on the payments to those [garbage collection] contractors for the end of December last year. So, that amount [$100 million] that was presented, then we have brought that down significantly to the point where we are to the point of completing those payments.”

He was, however, unable to pinpoint the exact sum that has so far been paid to the contractors, but disclosed that it included payments to Cevons Waste Management and Purans Brothers. These contractors were operating under a five-year contract that ended in 2020.

When contacted on Monday for details on the

Deputy Mayor Alfred Mentore

strapped. Shortly after the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) took office, the municipality had asked Government for a bailout.

Paying taxes

When asked where the Council sourced money from to pay these contractors, Mentore said, “People are always paying taxes. But we were always behind, because we inherited a lot of debts from previous Councils.”

Tender for solid waste

tors, $400 million was owed to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and over $20 million in retroactive salaries was owed to staffers of the City Constabulary.

When contacted on Monday, Deputy Mayor Mentore said, “We are near-

payout to the garbage collection contractors, City Treasurer John Douglas said that he needed time to get the information. However, subsequent calls to him went unanswered.

The M&CC has always claimed that it was cash-

Now that this debt has been cleared, Mentore said that the Council has reopened the tender process for solid waste collection in the capital city. Bids will open and close next Tuesday, January 12, 2020. “We are revisiting the new tender process for the long haul. We are on a month-to-month basis until there is a new contract period put in place for

all the contractors,” he explained.

City Hall has publicised its engineer’s estimate for monthly garbage collection within eight of the 11 wards in Georgetown.

It amounts to $11,752,999.

The monthly costs are as follows: Ward One, $1,352,000; Ward Four, $1,356,333; Ward Five, $1,534,000; Ward Six, $1,326,000; Ward Seven, $1,352,000; Ward Nine, $1,451,666; Ward 10, $1,889,333 and Ward 11, $1,464,667.

For 2021, Mentore said the Council would be doing its own garage collection in three of the 11 wards. He explained that this would significantly reduce the cost of solid waste collection in the city.

“Council will pick up garbage or do about three of the wards, so that will reduce cost significantly. Because of our ability not only to acquire certain trucks, but to get those trucks donated by the Ministry of Local Government. We have new trucks and they are in good working condition.”

He said that the new engineer’s estimate for the wards has significantly reduced the costs. “It will be a lot more manageable for us to do those wards, for us to carry the responsibility of dealing with it.”

Over the years, City Hall has come in for heavy criticism over the management of its finances and its wasteful spending which has left it in monstrous debts.

New Wismar Police Station over 35% completed

The new Wismar Police Station which is being constructed in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice)

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he new Wismar Police Station, which is being constructed in Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice), is now between 35 and 40 per cent completed, as work continues to move apace on the building, construction of which is being funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

According to a supervisor in charge of the works, the inclement weather pattern has posed some challenges to construction, but a roof is expected to be built shortly with the

hope of cushioning the effects of the adverse weather pattern.

Upon completion, the new structure is expected to house offices, barrack rooms for officers, holding cells, and an outside parking lot, all of which were not included in the former structure.

The project, which commenced in September of last year, was initially expected to be completed within a year.

Regional Police Commander, Senior Superintendent Hugh Winter,

had commended the move as a step in the right direction, as he noted that the new facility is expected to have more suitable and spacious amenities and accommodation. According to Regional Commander Winter, the former building was not equipped with certain departments and offices, but contained just about 4 main offices. The Regional Commander has said that, once completed, the new building would be equipped with additional offices.

“It will cater for new offices, such as interview room and such like. (The previous structure) didn’t have such facilities…so this will have various offices. They never had an Inspector Officer’s office, but they will get one now,” Winter had noted.

A contractor from Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) is working along on the project. In the meantime, policing services at the Wismar location would continue to be carried out from an adjacent building.

In 2018, a new Regional Police Headquarters was commissioned at the Mackenzie Police Station at a cost of $117M. (G13)

vendor’s murder

Wanted: Shawn Jones

Dead: Paul Anthony Smith, aka “Blacka”

he Guyana Police Force on Wednesday issued a wanted bulletin for the father of the young man who initially was taken into custody for the gunned down murder of a clothes vendor on New Year’s Day. Police say Shawn Jones, whose last known address is Lot 245 East La Penitence, Georgetown, is wanted for questioning in relation to the murder of clothes vendor Paul Anthony Smith.

Following Smith’s murder on New Year’s Day, Police had arrested a 21-year-old man, but investigators received new information and are now in search of the young man’s 54-year-old father.

Several checks were made for Jones at his residence, but he has not been located, hence the wanted bulletin has been issued.

Smith, called “Blacka”, 32, of Lot 31 Bent Street, Werk-en-Rust Georgetown,

who had plied his trade at the East Coast Bus Park, was shot dead at Commerce Street, Georgetown at about 18:30h on New Year’s Day. The Police have said that Smith was observed holding a cutlass and heading to his car when he was shot by another male, who is also a clothes vendor at Longden and Commerce Streets.

The injured Smith had fallen on the front passenger seat of his car, and was subsequently picked up by public-spirited citizens and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Investigators are asking anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of 54-year-old Shawn Jones to contact the Police on telephone numbers 2266978, 225-8196, 226-2870, 226-7065, 227-1149, 2267065, 225-6940, 911, or at the nearest Police Station.

T

(G9)

12 NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

UG student accused of issuing bomb threats freed

S

heneza Jafarally, the 26-year-old woman who was accused of issuing a bomb threat to the University of Guyana (UG), where she is a student, was freed of the charge on Monday by Magistrate Rushelle Liverpool.

The magistrate, presiding at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Courts, upheld a submission of no case to answer made by Jaffarally’s lawyer Latchmie Rahamat.

In an invited comment, the lawyer told Guyana Times “[The prosecution] could not prove the main ingredients of the offence and the most important element; that is, they could not prove that my client ever sent such a message.”

The charge against her had stated that on February 5, 2019, at Cummings Lodge, Greater Georgetown, she sent, by means of a public telecommunication device system, for the purpose of

causing needless anxiety to the staff and students of UG, a message which she knew to be false.

The charge was instituted pursuant to the Telecommunications Act. She had initially pleaded not guilty to the charge and was placed on $10,000 bail by the High Court.

Reacting to the court’s ruling, a relieved Jafarally said: “It has caused me great psychological trauma. I have not been able to attend school as yet. And that is not because I am not allowed to attend, but because I am so afraid because of the situation I was put in. I have been going to therapy for the past year. I don’t think another person should have to go through something like this because of negligence, because of people [the Police] not investigating properly.”

According to her lawyer, the prosecution failed to lead

also failed to prove, as prescribed by the Act, that a public telecommunication system was used to send the message. Moreover, Rahamat expressed that the entire case has caused her client public

Freed: Sheneza Jafarally

evidence to support the particulars of the charge, and to show that her client sent any message to cause public anxiety using a public telecommunication system. The lawyer said also that the prosecution led no evidence to disclose the contents of the message, for the court to consider whether it caused public anxiety.

She said the prosecution

It was reported that on February 5, 2019, a number of threats were sent to several online news outlets, which were promptly reported to the Police. UG had been placed on lock-down owing to the bomb

“It has caused me great psychological trauma.

I have not been able to attend school as yet.

And that is not because I am not allowed to attend, but because I am so afraid because of the situation I was put in. I have been going to therapy for the past year. I don’t think another person should have to go through something like this because of negligence, because of people [the Police] not investigating properly” – Sheneza Jafarally humiliation.

“We are happy that it has finally come to an end. From the beginning, we had maintained that there was no evidence.”

scare. As a result, the gates to the tertiary educational institution were briefly locked, but were reopened once the Police and other officials had given the green light.

In the threat message, the alleged sender, ‘Jack Ryan’, stated: “I have placed 20 bombs across the University of Guyana campus, which are hidden from plain sight.

Attached to this bomb is a timer which can be remotely activated/deactivated”.

It was reported that the sender also uploaded an image of the alleged handmade explosive devices and had also stated that the timer was set for eight hours before detonation.

“The bombs will be activated at exactly 15:00h, unless my demands are met,” ‘Ryan’ continued. In a subsequent message, he related that students must leave the campus, after which he would make his demands.

However, the Police conducted an investigation after no explosives were found on campus, and that led to Jafarally being arrested at her workplace.

NDC Chairpersons urged to respect, serve citizens

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he Chairpersons of the eighteen Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) have been urged to show respect for citizens as they took the oath of office on Wednesday.

Chairman of Region Six, David Armogan, has implored the community leaders to serve in a way that would benefit residents in their respective NDCs. Armogan has stated that the work of an NDC Chair is little appreciated, but a lot of criticisms are levied at the NDC. He made this remark at the swearing in ceremony of the region’s NDC Chairpersons on Wednesday.

Armogan told the NDC heads that they would not have all of the resources to

Chairperson of Enterprise NDC, Beharry

Canefield/ Sherryann

Chairperson of Macedonia/ Joppa NDC, Bibi Hardyal

do what residents require, but the practice of disregard for citizens must come to an end.

“Sometimes I sit at my office and people call me for very small matters; matters that can be handled within fifteen minutes at the NDC

level. But you know what the people say to me? ‘Chairman, we weary with them, that is why we are calling you’. We cannot continue to work like that.”

Armogan called on all of the NDC Chairs to ensure that they have a complaints

book. He said officers from the Regional Administration would be checking the NDCs to ensure that the book is in place and is being utilised.

In fact, he noted that the officers would also be checking to see what has been done to solve the issues recorded in the complaints book.

“The President directed that we form what is called a Quick Response Committee to deal with people’s matters. All of those little matters we can’t deal with at our level, otherwise we will be overwhelmed only dealing with issues and problems, and we will not be looking at developmental issues within our Region. You have your work cut out. That is your work. I don’t want people to be running at my office complaining about the NDC not

Chairperson of the Lancaster/ Hogstye NDC, Sharron Smith

doing things…”

The Region Chair further called on the NDC Chairs to have a close working relationship with the chairperson and vice-chair of each NDC, as well as with the council.

“This is another problem too, that we are experiencing,

where there are divisions in many of the Councils; some have two, some have three and some have more than three, and we cannot serve people if we have these divisions. We have to be able to work together as a Council.

When we work together as a Council, we will be able to sit down and solve people’s problems,” the Regional Chairman said.

He urged the NDCs to seek assistance from the RDC to resolve issues that they cannot resolve.

Region Six is the region with the most NDCs in the country. In fact, almost a quarter of all the NDCs in the country are in that Region.

Seven of the region’s 18 NDCs will be headed by women. Two women are also deputies at the NDCs. (G4)

NEWS

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Budget 2021 will lay foundation for economic transformation – AG G

uyanese can look forward to widespread transformation of the country’s economy from this year’s national budget, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, has said.

The Government is set to lay its national fiscal plan in the National Assembly in February, and the Attorney General has said it promises “greatness” for Guyana and its people as the PPP/C embarks on its first full year in office.

“In 2021, we will be laying the foundation for the

transformational projects that not only will keep the PPP in office for a very long time, but will transform this country,” the AG said on his weekly “Issues in the news” television programme on Tuesday evening.

The commencement of the construction of the new Demerara Harbour Bridge is among several projects set to take centre stage this year. Major highways across the East and West Coasts and East Bank of Demerara would also be commissioned. Preparatory work is also set to start for the construction of the high-

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC

way to Brazil and the Deep Water Harbour in Berbice, he said.

“This is the year that will see the minimum three to four international hotels begin construction. Another Marriott, Best Western, Hilton, Holiday Inn, Sheraton; all those names are already here. We will begin to mould and breathe life into our manufacturing sector, and we will be investing in manufacturing and processing products,” the Attorney General said.

He also said more airlines are expected to debut their service to Guyana, while

new, large oil companies would start operations here.

“Look at the budget.

Tens of thousands of projects are unfolding. This is the year the boom will begin. That is how the PPP plans to unfold governance this year.”

Recently, Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance in the Office of the President, Dr Ashni Singh, also noted the tremendous benefit Guyanese will receive from Budget 2021.

“The Budget will outline the medium and long-term vision for the country; vi-

sion of our Government in the long-term for the country, and then the Budget will initiate a lot of these programmes and policies and projects. A lot of the big projects that we have been speaking about, you will see them being initiated in Budget 2021, setting the stage for the realisation of the medium-term vision that we have for the country.”

This year’s budget will be the first full-year national economic plan presented by the PPP/C Government since taking office in August 2020.

WCB teens’ murder

FBI assisting local Police with probe

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rime Chief Wendell Blanhum on Wednesday confirmed that the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is providing the Guyana Police Force with technical assistance in its probe of the gruesome murders of West Coast Berbice cousins Joel and Isaiah Henry and Haresh Singh.

While the Crime Chief has refused to disclose any further information, he said the FBI has already begun working with the Police Force. The Police Force is continuing to receive regional and international help in probing the brutal killings of the three teenagers, which have led to many protest actions erupting across the country.

Now, four months after the killings, several persons have been detained for questioning, but no charges have been laid.

President Dr Irfaan Ali has already reassured the nation that the Government would leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice. In this regard, in November 2020, a team from the Regional Security Systems (RSS) arrived in Guyana to aid in the murder investigations. The RSS recommended that the Police Force conduct additional investigations.

Soon after, the Police Force announced that it was offering $3 million to anyone

who has information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of the killers.

Meanwhile, President of the Argentine Team of Forensic Anthropology, Dr Luis Fondebrider, was in Guyana to determine if any help could be offered by the

Argentine team.

Following discussions with the Police Force and Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, Dr Fondebrider was given access to the teens’ autopsy and pathology reports. During his visit here, Dr Fondebrider met with the relatives of the dead teenagers, and also visited the crime scene, where he gathered preliminary information.

On September 6, 2020, the badly mutilated bodies of the Henry cousins: Isaiah, 16, and Joel 19, were found in the backlands at West Coast Berbice after they had left their Number Three Village home to pick coconuts but did not return home. Three days later, on September 9, 2020, 17-yearold Haresh Singh was found

Isaiah Henry

murdered at the Number Three Village backlands in what was dubbed a retaliatory killing. The murders sparked widespread protest action, particularly along

Joel Henry

the West Coast Berbice corridor, with persons blocking the roads and burning debris while calling for justice.

The situation escalated when protesters blocked

Haresh Singh

traffic along the WCB roadway while robbing, beating and extorting innocent commuters. Millions of dollars were also lost as vehicles went up in flames.

14 NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Berbice woman who duped Diamond ‘smart hospital’ near seamen on $680,000 bail completion – Health Minister

S

imone Fortune, the woman of East Canje, Berbice who is accused of duping several seamen into a fake oil and gas training programme, was on Wednesday slapped with 17 criminal charges.

The woman appeared before Magistrate Renita Singh at the New Amsterdam Magistrates’ Courts on Wednesday. According to the prosecution’s case, between December 2019 and March 2020, she received the sum of $1.9M from 17 persons by falsely pretending that she could provide training and issue seafarers certificates.

Fortune pleaded not guilty to all seventeen charges.

Attorney-at-law Ryan Crawford, who represented Fortune, in a bail application, told the court that

Charged: Simone Fortune

Fortune is not a flight risk, and added that she has been operating her business for the past five to six years.

He added that his client has been recognised by relevant authority as she has had over 200 persons accred-

ited by her agency and they are currently employed with those certificates. He added that his client is not the person who issues the certificates, but rather it is the accredited agency in Panama.

"The only thing that needs to be issued are certificates that are coming from Panama. We will show the Court that Miss Fortune is not guilty of these allegations, and we are asking that Miss Fortune be placed on reasonable bill so that we can convince the trial," he said in a bill application.

Crawford also informed the Court that it is possible that during the trial the relevant certificates may arrive.

Meanwhile, Police Prosecutor Inspector Althea Solomon informed the court that while the prosecution is not objecting to bail, it is requesting that the defendant report to Central Police Station on a weekly basis pending trial.

Magistrate Singh placed Fortune on bail in the sum of $40,000 on each of the charges, bringing the total to $680,000. As a condition for bail, Fortune is required to lodge her passport, and will have to report to Central Police Station in New Amsterdam every Friday until the completion and determination of the case. The case will continue on January 26.

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

INFORMATION AND GUIDELINES HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF?

– works started to transform Leonora into ‘smart hospital’

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

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orks at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre to upgrade the institution into a Smart Hospital are near completion, with only minor exterior works remaining. This is according to Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony during Wednesday’s COVID-19 Update.

The Minister told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that while the hospital is almost ready to be handed over, the handing over was delayed due to challenges in importing some items for the facility.

“Our expectations are (that) by the end of this month we will be able to have a handing over of the

facility, so we can return the Diamond Hospital to full operation,” he said.

Meanwhile, work has started on the Leonora Cottage Hospital to also upgrade that facility to a Smart hospital under the Smart Health Care Facilities Project.

“Services at the Leonora facility continue at the site; but, at some point, when we have to do more of the internal works, we will deploy some of these services to the nearby community. So, we’re not going to disrupt the services; we’re just go-

are being rehabilitated under the Smart hospital programme: the Mabaruma Regional Hospital in Region One; the Lethem Regional Hospital in Region Nine, and the Paramakatoi Health Centre in Region Eight.

Minister Anthony has said the contractor for Lethem Regional Hospital commenced last year, and has made “substantial progress”, while works are expected to start sometime this year at the Mabaruma Regional Hospital. The upgrades for the Paramakatoi Health Centre will be done

ing to put it in another area, so that persons can still access health services,” the Minister noted.

Dr Anthony explained that some of the building’s external works were rescheduled due to the rainy weather.

Three other hospitals

in collaboration with the Guyana Defence Force.

The ‘Smart hospital’ concept refers to a facility that is both safe and ‘green’. The initiative comes under an $835 million (US$4.175 million) project funded by the United Kingdom Department for International Development.

SYMPTOMS

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness.

Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms or combinations of symptoms may have COVID-19:

Cough

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Or at least two of these symptoms:

Fever People who think they may be affected by coronavirus need to call the Public Health Ministry hotline 227-4986/624-3067 for further advice. They should not go to their GP, A&E, pharmacy or hospital.

If you have come into contact with somebody who may be infected, you may be told to self-isolate. People needing to do so should take "common-sense" steps to avoid close contact with other people.

(Adapted from BBC News)

Headache

Chills

Sore throat

Repeated shaking with chills

Muscle pain

Children have similar symptoms to adults and generally have New loss of taste mild illness. or smell

NEWS

15

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Gunmen open fire GNBS reports increase in devices on Ponzi scheme verified for 2020 couple’s home T he Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) as the National Measurement Institute continued to realise major successes in 2020 as many of its targets set at the beginning of the year were met, notwithstanding setbacks caused by the COVID 19 pandemic.

Significant efforts were made under the Legal Metrology Programme to verify weighing and measuring devices used in commerce to protect consumers and ensure equity in trade. In addition, under its Industrial Metrology Programme, the GNBS continued to provide calibration services to a wide range of stakeholders during the year.

During 2020, a total of 29,675 new devices, which included 638 scales, 1473

Inspector verifying Petrol Pumps

Cuban national Yuri Garcia-Dominguez and his wife, Ateeka Ishmael

P

olice are investigating a shooting incident at a house owned by Cuban national Yuri Garcia-Dominguez and his Guyanese wife Ateeka Ishmael, who are embroiled in the multi-million-dollar Ponzi scheme.

Guyana Times understands the incident occurred at some time after 21:00h at the couple’s Track ‘A’ Coldingen, East Coast Demerara home.

Commander of Region Four – Sub-Division C, Mahendra Siwnarine, confirmed the shooting on Wednesday night. At the time, ranks were on location, processing the scene.

According to Siwnarine, the house is currently unoccupied. He further related that a report of the incident was made via the Force’s Operation Centre.

It was reported that a vehicle stopped in front of the

house, and three persons existed. They then opened fire on the building before returning into the vehicle and escaping.

Investigations are ongoing.

Garcia-Dominguez and Ishmael are currently before the courts facing more than 80 charges in relation to swindling dozens of Guyanese of millions of dollars in a major Ponzi scheme, and they are also under investigation for money laundering.

They are the principals of Accelerated Capital Firm Inc (ACFI), the company involved in the Ponzi scheme.

Over 17,000 Guyanese have invested more than $4 billion dollars in the scheme.

Local authorities are currently working with Garcia-Dominguez and his lawyers to return the monies to the victims of the Ponzi scheme.

Inspectors verifying scales

masses and 27554 electricity meters for GPL were verified. This indicates an overall increase in new devices verified as compared to the year 2019.

Meanwhile, for devices already in use at shops, markets, and other locations such as supermarkets, manufacturing companies, rice mills, hospitals, airlines, post offices, a total 5009 scales, 9977 masses, 140 weighbridge scales, 202 electricity meters, and 59 moisture meters were verified.

For volumetric measurements, the GNBS verified 1722 petrol pumps, 270 bulk meters, 30 storage tanks and 114 fuel tanker wagons. These devices were verified for Rubis, GuyOil, Sol Guyana and other private companies countrywide to ensure measurement accuracy and conformance to safety requirements.

Overall, there was a notable decline in the verification of devices already in use during 2020 when compared with 2019. This could be attributed to necessary precautionary measures

taken by the GNBS during the pandemic.

Last year, there was also a significant decline in the surveillance inspections, which are done to ensure that devices in use at shops and markets countrywide are stamped and in acceptable condition. Only 1217 surveillance visits were conducted, which resulted in 269 devices being seized and removed because they were either inaccurate, unverified or in a deplorable condition.

Notably, in 2020, the GNBS conducted a series of measurements training for the Guyana Police Force (GPF), which focused on the verification and use of breathalyzers, speed guns and the use in the international system of units.

For Legal Metrology, in 2020 the GNBS worked to ensure it fulfilled its measurement role in the Oil and Gas Sector. Throughout the year, Inspectors were fully involved in monitoring the verification of custody transfer meters on the Floating Production Storage Offloading vessel, offshore.

For Industrial

Metrology, the GNBS continued to provide vital calibration services as industries increased the use and demand for traceable and reliable measurements in Guyana. Measuring instruments were calibrated in the areas of Mass, Dimension, Volume, Pressure, and Temperature. This resulted in the calibrations of 1679 measuring instruments during 2020.

Finally, the GNBS is looking to expand its services to stakeholders in both Legal Metrology and Industrial Metrology. For 2021, the GNBS has procured a fitted Mobile Unit, which will be visiting strategic locations across the country to conduct the mobile verification of devices used at Markets and other business outlets. In addition, the Bureau is actively looking to employ Inspectors within other outlying regions to ensure access to its services. Lastly, there will be an expansion of calibration services in the areas of volume, temperature, pressure, and torque, which are heavily demanded by the industry.

US tops 21 million COVID-19 cases with record hospitalisations as states ramp up vaccinations

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ore Americans were hospitalised with COVID-19 on Wednesday than at any time since the pandemic began, as total coronavirus infections crossed the 21-million mark, deaths soared across much of the United States and a historic vaccination effort lagged.

US COVID-19 hospitalisations reached a record 130,834 late on Tuesday, according to a Reuters tally of public health data, while the 3684 fatalities reported were the second-highest single-day death toll of the pandemic.

That appalling toll meant that on Tuesday someone died from COVID-19 every 24 seconds in the United States. With total deaths surpassing 357,000, one in every

914 US residents has died from COVID-19 since the pandemic began, according to a Reuters analysis.

In hard-hit California, public health authorities ordered hospitals in more than a dozen southern and central counties overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients to suspend elective surgeries for at least three weeks.

The order, issued late on Tuesday by the state’s Department of Public Health, applies to 14 counties, including Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties, where hospital critical care capacity has been severely stretched.

Total US COVID-19 cases surpassed the 21 million mark on Wednesday, and, with many healthcare systems approaching a break-

ing point, pressure mounted on state and local officials to speed up distribution of the two authorised vaccines from Pfizer Inc with partner BioNTech SE and Moderna Inc. The lack of a federal blueprint for the crucial final step of getting the vaccines into tens of millions of arms has left state and local officials in charge of the monumental effort, creating a patchwork of different plans across United States.

Some states have summoned extra resources to speed vaccine administrations. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper on Tuesday mobilised the state’s National Guard to “provide support to local health providers” to more quickly distribute coronavirus vaccines.

“We will use all resources and

A mobile field hospital is shown outside UCI Medical Center in Orange County, California, US, January 4, 2021

personnel needed,” Cooper said in a statement.

Both authorised vaccines require two doses three or four weeks apart.

Healthcare workers in several

states this week began getting their second dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, which was approved before the Moderna shot. (Excerpt from Reuters)

16 NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Attack on US Congress 'great shame' Major US business group urges but not surprising – Obama Pence, cabinet to remove Trump

F

ormer president Barack Obama blamed Donald Trump and Republicans for the attack on the US Congress Wednesday, calling it "a moment of great dishonor and shame for our nation."

"But we'd be kidding ourselves if we treated it as a total surprise," Obama said, adding that it was "incited"

by Trump, "who has continued to baselessly lie about the outcome of a lawful election."

Obama also singled out the Republican party and its media supporters, whom he said have "too often been un-

T

Former president Barack Obama

willing to tell their followers the truth" about Democrat Joe Biden's strong victory in the November 3 election.

"Now we're seeing the consequences, whipped up into a violent crescendo," he said in a statement. (AFP)

China reports biggest rise in daily COVID cases in 5 months

C

hina reported the biggest rise in daily COVID-19 cases in more than five months on Thursday, driven by rising infections in Hebei province surrounding the capital Beijing. Hebei, which entered a “wartime mode” on Tuesday, accounted for 51 of the 52 local cases reported by the National Health Commission on Thursday.

This compared with 20 cases reported in the province a day earlier.

Total new COVID-19 cases for all of mainland China stood at 63, compared with 32 reported a day earlier, marking the biggest rise in daily cases since 127 cases were reported on July 30.

The number of asymptomatic patients, who have been infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes the disease but have yet to develop any symptoms, also rose to 79 from 64 a day earlier. The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in mainland China since the outbreak first started in the city of Wuhan in late 2019

he president of the National Association of Manufacturers, which represents 14,000 companies, said Vice President Pence and the cabinet should consider removing Trump from office.

The head of a significant United States business group that represents 14,000 companies including Exxon Mobil Corp, Pfizer Inc and Toyota Motor Corp urged senior US officials to consider removing President Donald Trump from office after supporters of the outgoing president stormed the US Capitol.

National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons said Trump “incited violence in an attempt to retain power, and any elected leader defending him is violating their oath to the Constitution and rejecting democracy in favour of anarchy … Vice President [Mike] Pence, who was evacuated from the Capitol, should seriously consider working with the Cabinet to invoke the 25th Amendment to pre-

President Donald Trump

serve democracy.” Trump has 14 days remaining in office before President-elect Joe Biden is sworn in on January 20.

Other business groups issued strong statements but did not go as far as the manufacturers’ group.

The Business Roundtable, an association of chief executives of some of the biggest US companies, said, “The chaos unfolding in the nation’s capital is the result of unlawful efforts to overturn the legitimate results of a democratic election.”

They called on Trump “and all relevant officials to put an end to the chaos and to facilitate the peaceful transi-

tion of power”, the group said in a statement. JPMorgan Chase Chairman and Chief Executive Jamie Dimon said, “Our elected leaders have a responsibility to call for an end to the violence, accept the results, and, as our democracy has for hundreds of years, support the peaceful transition of power. Now is the time to come together to strengthen our exceptional union.”

The head of the US Chamber of Commerce, a powerful business lobby based near the White House, said that “attacks against our nation’s Capitol Building and our democracy must end now” and called for Congress to resume work on Wednesday, despite the violent disruption.

“The Congress of the United States must gather again this evening to conclude their Constitutional responsibility to accept the report of the Electoral College,” said Thomas Donohue, CEO of the US Chamber of Commerce, in a statement. (Al Jazeera)

Pfizer vaccine could be first for T&T A medical worker in a protective suit collects a swab sample from a middle school student during a mass nucleic acid testing following a recent coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Xingtai, Hebei province, China, January 6, 2021

now stands at 87,278 cases, while the death toll remained unchanged at 4,634.

Authorities in Shijiazhuang, Hebei’s capital, where most of the new cases are located, have launched mass testing drives and banned gatherings to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

Travellers must present a negative nucleic acid COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before boarding a train or an airplane in the province. In the city of Dalian in Liaoning province, which has reported local infections in recent days, residents in medi-

um or high-risk areas have been barred from leaving the city. Residents in other areas were told to refrain from unnecessary trips out of Dalian.

Authorities in Guangdong province late on Wednesday reported a patient infected with a more transmissible variant of the coronavirus discovered in South Africa.

Some scientists worry that COVID-19 vaccines currently being rolled out may not be able to protect against this variant because of certain mutations that have been observed.

(Reuters)

W

hile nothing is yet set in stone, the Pfizer and BioNtech vaccine could be the one that is administered in T&T, according to the Minister of Health, Terrence Deyalsingh.

Speaking during a Ministry of Health virtual press conference on Wednesday, Deyalsingh noted that the ministry has requested technical information for a handful of other vaccine candidates from the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/ WHO).

“Once the Pfizer vaccine passes all the regulatory ap-

provals via CARPHA, the technical advisory group for the Caribbean, and the local advisory group, the Pfizer vaccine could possibly be the first one to be used in Trinidad and Tobago,” he said.

The Pfizer and BioNtech

vaccine was validated by the WHO on December 31st 2020 for emergency use.

It is already being administered in some of the most affected global populations, such as the United Kingdom and 27 European Union states. (T&T Guardian)

Twitter, Facebook freeze Trump accounts as Antiguan judge to become tech giants respond to storming of US capitol US District Chief Judge T

A

n Antiguan-born Judge is set to become the first black Chief judge for the Eastern District of New York.

Following the departure of her predecessor, Judge Margo K. Brodie will soon be taking on the duty of a US District Chief Judge. Chief Justice John Roberts Jr. announced on Tuesday that the current Chief Judge, Roslynn Mauskopf, of the

Judge Margo K. Brodie

Eastern District of New York will leave Brooklyn to become director of the Judge

Margo K. Brodie will then be promoted in the position and become the eastern district’s first black Chief judge.

Judge Brodie was Born 1966 in St. John`s, Antigua.

She was nominated by Barack Obama 2011 to a seat on the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York. She was confirmed a United States District Judge in 2012. (Antigua News Room)

witter and Facebook Inc on Wednesday temporarily locked the accounts of U.S. President Donald Trump, as tech giants scrambled to crack down on his baseless claims about the U.S. presidential elections amid riots at the U.S. Capitol.

Twitter hid and required the removal of three of Trump’s tweets “as a result of the unprecedented and ongoing violent situation in Washington, D.C.,” after pro-Trump protesters stormed the U.S. Capitol in

an attempt to force Congress to block the appointment of President-elect Joe Biden.

Facebook FB.N later tweeted it would block Trump's page from posting for 24 hours due to two policy violations.

Twitter locked Trump’s account for 12 hours and said that if the tweets are not removed, the account would remain locked, meaning the president would be unable to tweet from @realDonaldTrump. (Reuters)

NEWS

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

US Congress in turmoil as violent Trump supporters storm Capitol Hill, 1 dead

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iolent supporters of President Donald Trump breached the Capitol in Washington, as lawmakers met to confirm President-elect Joe Biden’s poll win.

In dramatic scenes, demonstrators swarmed the building as Congress members were escorted out by Police.

Biden said it was an “insurrection”, and Trump released a video message asking supporters to go home.

The joint session of Congress certifying Biden’s win has been suspended and forced into recess.

There are reports of guns drawn in the building and at least one person shot. The

and called for a “peaceful and orderly transfer of power”.

Trump’s spokeswoman, Kayleigh McEnany tweeted that the National Guard was being deployed.

Troops and Police have also been mobilised in neighbouring states, and the FBI has been deployed to help Capitol Police.

There are also reports of protests at state legislatures around the country.

“Surrender the building to us”

On the steps of Capitol Hill, hundreds of loyal Trump supporters were packed closely together, as nearby armed Police Officers kept a watchful eye.

The mood was tense and

Tear gas is used to disperse protesters at the Capitol building

woman who was reported to be in critical condition later died and several Police were injured.

There has been an armed confrontation at the doors of the House of Representatives. Tear gas has also been used.

Rioters were seen marching through the building chanting “We want Trump” and one was photographed in the Senate President’s chair.

Washington Police said it was clear the crowd was intent on using chemical irritants to force entry to the building.

After an occupation lasting several hours, the sergeant-at-arms – the executive office of the Senate – announced that the building had been secured by law enforcement.

But there is little sign that the protesters were obeying Trump’s call to go home, despite a citywide curfew declared by the city mayor from 18:00h to 06:00h.

Trump recorded a video message on Twitter calling on supporters to leave the Capitol, but continued to make unsubstantiated claims that Democrats had stolen the election.

“I know your pain, I know you’re hurt,” he said. “You have to go home now, we have to have peace... we don’t want anybody hurt.”

Biden said the demonstration “borders on sedition and it must end now”.

“At this hour our democracy is under unprecedented assault,” he said.

Political figures across the world expressed shock.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned “disgraceful scenes”

defiant.

“We’re not [expletive] Antifa!” one man screams at the Police, referring to the loose coalition of “anti-fascist” activists that oppose Trump.

Trump loyalists near him wave placards that say “show us the ballots”.

“All we want is for the Capitol Police to stand down, and surrender the building

“We will never give up, we will never concede,” President Donald Trump tells supporters

What were the protesters targeting?

A joint session of Congress was being held to certify Biden’s election victory on November 3.

The proceedings are usually brief and ceremonial, but Republican lawmakers have been objecting to some results.

For days, Trump had also been putting pressure on Vice President Mike Pence, who is presiding over the session, to block certification of the result.

But in a letter to Congress on Wednesday, Pence said that he had no “unilateral authority to decide which electoral votes should be counted”.

The protesters arrived at the Capitol from a “Save America Rally”, where Trump had urged them to support those legislators opposing Biden’s confirmation.

Trump has refused to concede the November 3 election, repeatedly alleging fraud without providing any

“It’s insurrection” – President-elect Biden

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resident-elect Joe Biden spoke from Delaware as the US Capitol building in Washington DC was stormed. Here is a transcript of Biden’s remarks: All of you’ve been watching what I’ve been watching. At this hour, our democracy is under unprecedented assault unlike anything we’ve seen in modern times. An assault on the citadel of Liberty, the Capitol itself. An assault on the people’s representatives, on the Capitol Hill Police sworn to protect them. On the public servants who work at the heart of our republic. An assault on the rule of law, like few times we’ve ever seen it. An assault on the most sacred of American undertakings, the doing of the people’s business.

Let me be very clear.

The scenes of chaos at the Capitol do not reflect a true America, do not represent who we are. What we’re seeing are a small number of extremists, dedicated to lawlessness. This is not dis-

President-elect Joe Biden

test, it’s insurrection. The world’s watching.

Like so many other Americans, I am genuinely shocked and saddened that our nation – so long the beacon of light and hope for democracy – has come to such a dark moment.

Through war and strife, America’s endured much and we will endure here and we will prevail again and we’ll prevail now.

The work of the moment and the work of the next four years must be the restoration of democracy, of

what our children watching television are thinking.

Think what the rest of the world is looking at.

For nearly two and a half centuries, we, the people in search of a more perfect union, have kept our eyes on that common good.

America is so much better than what we’ve seen today.

Watching the scenes from the Capitol, I was reminded as I prepared other speeches in the past, I was reminded of the words of Abraham Lincoln in his annual message to Congress, whose work has today been interrupted by chaos.

Here’s what Lincoln said. He said, “We shall nobly save or merely lose the last, best hope on Earth.”

Went on to say, “The way is plain, peaceful, generous, just. A way, which if followed, the world will forever applaud and God must forever bless.”

The way is plain here, too. That’s who we are. It’s the way of democracy, of respect, of decency, of honour and commitment as patri-

Supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump protest in front of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, U.S. January 6, 2021 [REUTERS/Stephanie Keith]

Police place US Capitol Building on lockdown after Trump supporters breach security lines

to us,” says one man to news cameras, as he is filmed by other Trump supporters.

The conviction here is that the election was stolen from President Trump, and the lawmakers inside the building should do their duty and somehow award the election to him.

Never mind that election officials have certified the results and the courts have thrown out Trump campaign lawsuits alleging fraud because there’s no evidence.

It’s a siege mentality here, as word spreads through the crowd that the National Guard is on its way to the Capitol.

evidence.

On Wednesday, he said again: “We will never give up. We will never concede.”

He has also tried to throw doubt on the integrity of Tuesday’s Senate run-off votes in the southern, traditionally Republican state of Georgia. Projections by US TV networks suggest the Democrats have won one of the seats and are neck-andneck for the second seat.

If the Democrats win both they will gain effective control of the Senate – something that will help Biden push forward his agenda after he is inaugurated as President on January 20.

(BBC News)

sent, it’s disorder. It’s chaos. It borders on sedition.

And it must end, now.

I call on this mob to pull back and allow the work of democracy to go forward.

You heard me say before in different context, the words of a President matter, no matter how good or bad that president is.

At their best, the words of a president can inspire. At their worst, they can incite.

Therefore, I call on President Trump to go on national television now to fulfil his oath and defend the Constitution and demand an end to this siege.

To storm the Capitol, to smash windows, to occupy offices, the floor of the United States Senate rummaging through desks, on the Capitol, on the House of Representatives, threatening the safety of duly-elected officials. It’s not pro-

decency, honour, respect, the rule of law. Just plain simple decency.

The renewal of a politics that’s about solving problems, looking out for one another, not stoking the flames of hate and chaos. As I said, America’s about honour, decency, respect, tolerance. That’s who we are.

That’s who we’ve always been.

The certification, the Electoral College vote, it’s supposed to be a sacred ritual to reaffirm... the purpose is to affirm the majesty of American democracy.

But today’s reminder, a painful one, that democracy is fragile and to preserve it requires people of good will, leaders with the courage to stand up, who are devoted not to the pursuit of power or the personal interest, pursuits of their own selfish interest at any cost, but of the common good. Think

ots to this nation.

Notwithstanding what I saw today and we’re seeing today, I remain optimistic about the incredible opportunities. There has never been anything we can’t do when we do it together. And this godawful display today was bringing home to every Republican and Democrat and independent in the nation that we must step up.

This is the United States of America. There’s never, ever, ever, ever, ever been a thing we’ve tried to do that we’ve done it together, we’ve not been able to do it.

So, President Trump, step up.

May God bless America.

May God protect our troops and all those folks at the Capitol who are trying to preserve order.

Thank you and I’m sorry to have kept you waiting.

(Excerpt from The LAist)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Regional

Brazil's Bolsonaro reaffirms Trump T&T: Cops say ties, cites baseless vote fraud claims arrests imminent in RBC ATM heist B razilian President Jair Bolsonaro on Wednesday reiterated baseless allegations of US election fraud and continued to back President Donald Trump, as the American leader’s supporters invaded the US Capitol building.

Bolsonaro, a far-right former army captain, has long admired Trump, and was one of the last global leaders to recognise President-elect Joe Biden’s election victory.

On Wednesday, Bolsonaro said he had followed the storming of the US Capitol by Trump supporters seeking to overturn the President’s election defeat. The breach forced law-

makers to evacuate and Congress to postpone a session that would have certified Biden’s victory.

Asked by a supporter for his views on the chaot-

ic scenes in Washington, he said: “I followed everything today. You know I’m connected to Trump, right? So you already know my answer.”

“There were lot of reports of fraud, a lot of reports of fraud,” he added, in a video posted on social media, without providing evidence.

Bolsonaro also took the opportunity to repeat a baseless complaint that his own 2018 election victory was tainted by fraud and he should have won without a runoff.

Trump’s election loss was a blow to Bolsonaro, who has sought closer ties with the United States. Biden’s victory is likely to isolate Brazil on the global stage, and raise pressure on Bolsonaro’s handling of the environment and human rights. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

policy, to deter migrants from claiming asylum along the US’s southern border.

Under the policy, migrants have to wait for their asylum court hearings in Mexican border cities, rather than in the US, as had long been policy.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) in a report issued on Wednesday said the policy which sent thousands of migrants to some of Mexico’s most dangerous cities and subjected them to abduction

and rape – should be “quickly and decisively dismantled”.

Michael Garcia Bochenek, senior children’s rights counsel at Human Rights Watch, said the policy “has needlessly and foreseeably exposed children and adults to a high risk of violence and other harm”.

“Repairing this damage will take time, but the Biden Administration should immediately begin to allow people in the programme to

return to the United States while their asylum cases are pending,” he said.

The New York-based group said under the policy, more than 69,000 asylum seekers were sent back to cities such as Ciudad Juarez, Mexicali and Matamoros – cities rife with cartel violence – where migrants were sexually assaulted, abducted for ransom, extorted, robbed at gunpoint and subjected to other crimes.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

to them, and in doing so exceed their expectations.'

“It was a commitment that he applied to all his business activities, and which came to span not only those stationed in his homeland, Jamaica, but also those that extended beyond.

Gordon “Butch” Stewart portrayed a life marked by excellence,” Patterson said.

Current Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: “”Butch” Stewart is a Jamaican icon and businessman of the highest order. He was a nationalist who truly and deeply loved his country. He is known for his strong business acumen and legendary philanthropy.” (Excerpts from Jamaica Observer)

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro speaks during a ceremony at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, November 26, 2020 (file photo)

Rights group urges Biden to end “Remain in Mexico” programme

A

leading human rights group has called on the incoming Administration of President-elect Joe Biden to dismantle a migration programme which the group said subjected migrants to avoidable physical and emotional harm.

The Administration of President Donald Trump championed two years ago the United States Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) or the “Remain in Mexico”

R

oyal Bank of Canada (RBC) in Toronto, Canada has confirmed that its Maraval Branch, Trinidad ATMs were vandalised last weekend and added that the Police were continuing their investigations into the TT$1.3 million heist.

Guardian Media reached out to Andrew Mc Grath, Director, Corporate Communications, Caribbean and Personal and Commercial Banking, Royal Bank of Canada and was told: “We can confirm that our ATMs at our Maraval Branch were vandalised overnight between January 1 and 2.”

“Police attended the scene and are currently investigating,” he added.

Guardian Media understands that investigators have possible leads and that arrests are imminent.

According to a Police report, about 09:00h on Sunday, a manager of RBC reported that information was received from the Electronic Response Officer that there was unusual activity at the ATM at one of their branches. Upon her arrival about 10;00h she opened the ATM room and observed the two machines cut open and cash trays on the floor.

An estimate of TT$1.3 million cash was missing.

No Closed Circuit TV (CCTV) footage was obtained as cameras were non-functional at that location.

(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Mexican President offers to vaccinate unlawful migrants in US

Region mourns: Tributes flow across the Caribbean for “Butch” Stewart

L

Gordon “Butch” Stewart (right) and his son Adam

eaders across the Caribbean on Tuesday paid glowing tributes to Jamaican entrepreneur Gordon “Butch” Stewart, praising him for his outstanding contribution to the Region in the areas of tourism, business, and media.

Stewart, who founded the ATL Group of Companies, which includes the world-famous Sandals and Beaches Resorts, as well as the Jamaica Observer newspaper, died Monday night at the age of 79.

“Gordon “Butch” Stewart was an extraordinary human being, and personalities like his come every 100 years. For an entrepreneur to start very small, without any advantages or inheritance attached to himself, but by sheer will, creativity, imagination, and discipline to build an empire like

Sandals, which has become a world-renowned brand, is extraordinary,” said St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves.

He said what Stewart did for Sandals could be compared to what Bob Marley has done for reggae.

“When you reflect on it, this man is a legend, an iconic figure. He made an outstanding contribution to Jamaica, the Caribbean, and to humanity.

“I will miss Butch; I am sure the enterprise he has left will be in good hands and that it will long survive him as part of his immense legacy.”

Former Jamaican Prime Minister P J Patterson described Stewart as “the quintessential marketer who lived by the motto: 'Find out what people want, give it

British actress fined, on bail for COVID-19 breach in Barbados

B

ritish actress and former model Zara Holland was fined Bds$12,000 in seven days or nine months for breaching quarantine.

Holland, who was staying at the Hilton Hotel, appeared in the District D Magistrate’s Court charged with breaching quarantine on December 29, 2020 when she was caught at the Grantley Adams International Airport attempting to flee the island.

The fine was imposed

by Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes who was sitting at Cane Garden, St Thomas, on Wednesday.

She was quarantined at

the Sugar Bay Hotel. She later returned two negative tests.

Holland was released on Bds$20,000 bail, until the fine is paid, with a follow-up date of January 12, 2021 to ascertain whether the fine was paid.

Chief Magistrate Weekes said if the fine was not paid, a warrant for her arrest would be issued through Interpol.

After leaving the court, Attorney Harry Husbands said they accepted the terms and issued a public apology on behalf of his client, who did not answer any questions. (Excerpts from Nation News)

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador

M

exico’s President said on Wednesday he was ready to provide coronavirus vaccines to undocumented migrants in the United States, after the Governor of the US state of Nebraska said they would likely not get vaccinated due to immigration status.

“It’s a universal right.

We would do it,” President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador told a regular Government news conference when asked if Mexico would vaccinate undocumented migrants in the United States, many of whom are Mexican nationals.

He did not elaborate on how his government would execute such a plan, or which migrants would qualify.

The comments on Tuesday about workers at Nebraska’s meat-packing plants by State Governor Pete Ricketts, a member of President Donald Trump’s Republican party, had provoked criticism from public health and migrant advocates.

“You’re supposed to be a

legal resident of the country to be able to be working in those plants, so I do not expect that illegal immigrants will be part of that vaccine with that programme,” Ricketts told a coronavirus briefing.

The Washington-based Migration Policy Institute estimates 11 per cent of Nebraska’s meat-packing workers – and 10 per cent of the workers nationwide – lack legal immigration status.

Widespread COVID-19 outbreaks occurred at meat-packing plants in the United States in the spring, helping spread the virus around rural America where plants are concentrated.

Roberto Velasco, a senior Mexican diplomat for North America, responded to Ricketts on Tuesday night.

“To deprive undocumented essential workers of #covid19 vaccination goes against basic human rights,” he wrote on Twitter, including Ricketts’ Twitter handle and citing text from the UN’s declaration of human rights. (Excerpt from Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Alaskan wilderness opens up for oil exploration

T

he Trump Administration is pushing ahead with the first-ever sale of oil leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR).

The giant Alaskan wilderness is home to many important species, including polar bears, caribou and wolves.

But after decades of dispute, the rights to drill for oil on about five per cent of the refuge will go ahead.

Opponents have criticised the rushed nature of the sale, coming just days before President Trump's term ends.

Covering some 19 million acres (78,000 sq km), the ANWR is often described as America's last great wilderness.

Many of Alaska's political representatives believe that drilling in the refuge could lead to another major oil find, like the one in Prudhoe Bay, just west of the ANWR. Prudhoe Bay is the largest oil field in North America and supporters believe the ANWR shares the same geology, and potential reserves of crude oil.

Oil revenues are critical for Alaska, with every resident getting a cheque for around US$1600 every year from the state's permanent fund.

Meanwhile, oil markets are in for more struggles this year despite a more than five per cent boost to prices this week on news from OPEC+. The oil producer group, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, announced that members would keep production largely steady rather than raising it, with Riyadh later revealing voluntary cuts of an extra one million barrels per day from its January’s production levels in February and March.

Brent crude futures traded at US$53.81 a barrel on Wednesday afternoon, following a five per cent jump on Tuesday that brought the commodity to an 11-month high.

(Excerpt from BBC News and CNBC)

National security law: Hong Kong rounds up 53 pro-democracy activists

World stunned by violence in US Capitol, attempts to overturn election

W

orld leaders on Wednesday expressed shock at the violent protesters who overran the US Congress and attempts to overturn the November 3 presidential election results which dealt a victory to Democratic challenger Joe Biden.

Police in the US Capitol responded with drawn guns and tear gas as hundreds of protesters stormed in and sought to force Congress to undo President Donald Trump’s election loss shortly after some of Trump’s fellow Republicans launched a last-ditch effort to throw out the results.

Here are reactions from around the world: Sweden

Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven in a tweet described the incidents as “an attack on democracy”.

“President Trump and many members of Congress bear significant responsibility for what’s now taking place.

The democratic process of electing a president must be respected.”

United Kingdom

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in a tweet described the scenes in the US Congress as a “disgrace”, saying the United States stood for democracy around the world and that it was “vital” now that there should be a peaceful and orderly transfer of power.

Germany

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said democracy’s enemies would be cheered by scenes of violence at the United States Capitol, and he called on Trump to accept US voters’ decision.

In a tweet posted af-

ter protesters stormed the seat of the US legislature, Maas said the violence had been caused by inflammatory rhetoric. “Trump and his supporters must accept the decision of American voters at last and stop trampling on democracy.”

Russia

“Quite Maidan-style pictures are coming from DC,” Russia’s Deputy UN Ambassador, Dmitry Polyanskiy posted on Twitter, referring to protests in Ukraine that toppled Russian-backed Ukraine President Viktor Yanukovich in 2014.

“Some of my friends ask whether someone will distribute crackers to the protesters to echo Victoria Nuland stunt,” he said, citing a 2013 visit to Ukraine when then-US Assistant Secretary of State, Victoria Nuland offered food to protesters.

NATO

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg called the violent protests in Washington “shocking scenes” and said the outcome of the democratic US election must be respected.

Spain

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said in a tweet: “I am following with concern the news that are coming from Capitol Hill in Washington. I trust in the strength of America’s democracy.

“The new Presidency of @ JoeBiden will overcome this time of tension, uniting the American people.”

Canada

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed concern about the vio-

Supporters of US President Donald Trump climb on walls at the US Capitol during a protest against the certification of the 2020 US presidential election results by the US Congress, in Washington DC, USA, January 6, 2021

lent scenes in Washington.

“Obviously we’re concerned and we’re following the situation minute by minute,” Trudeau told the News 1130 Vancouver radio station. “I think the American democratic institutions are strong, and hopefully everything will return to normal shortly.”

Finland

Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin said in a statement: “The attack on Capitol Hill in Washington DC is a very serious and worrying matter. It shows how important it is to firmly and strongly defend democracy at all times.”

Turkey

Turkey’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement expressing concern about the violence and called for calm and common sense while urging its citizens to avoid crowds and the protest area.

France

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Twitter: “The violence against the American institutions is a grave attack on democracy. I condemn it.

The will and the vote of the American people must be respected.”

European Union

Charles Michel, Chairman of EU leaders, on Twitter expressed his shock at the scenes in Washington. “The US Congress is a temple of democracy...We trust the US to ensure a peaceful transfer of power to @JoeBiden” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: “I believe in the strength of US institutions and democracy. Peaceful transition of power is at the core. @JoeBiden won the election. I look forward to working with him as the next President of the USA.”

Venezuela

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza tweeted: “Venezuela expresses its concern for the violent events that are taking place in the city of Washington, USA; condemns the political polarisation and hopes that the American people will open a new path toward stability and social justice.”

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Georgia Senate election: Democrats take control with Warnock and Ossoff wins

T

he Democratic Party of US President-elect Joe Biden has won control of the Senate – and of Congress overall – with two victories in the state of Georgia.

M

Lester Shum was first barred from running for office, then arrested

ore than 50 of Hong Kong's most prominent pro-democracy activists and politicians have been arrested in the biggest crackdown since China imposed a draconian security law last year.

About 1000 Police took part in morning raids on 72 premises across the city.

Those held helped run an unofficial "primary" to pick Opposition candidates ahead of postponed 2020 elections.

They are accused of trying to "overthrow" the Government. Activists say

the new law aims to quash dissent.

China's Government imposed the legislation on the semi-autonomous territory in June, saying it was necessary to curb months of sometimes violent pro-democracy protests.

Beijing defended Wednesday's arrests, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying saying they were needed to stop "external forces and individuals [colluding] to undermine China's stability and security". (Excerpt from BBC News)

Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff defeated Republican incumbents Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue respectively.

Democrats will control the Senate, the House of Representatives and the White House for the first time since 2009.

An estimated four million Georgians turned out to vote in the run-off election.

The result is a severe blow for outgoing Republican President Donald Trump.

The Georgia election was rerun because none of the candidates in the November

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen

General Election achieved the 50 per cent needed for victory under state rules.

Warnock, a Baptist pastor, becomes the first black senator for Georgia – a slavery state in the US Civil War – and only the 11th black member of the Senate in US history. (Excerpt from BBC News) COVID-19: Europe prepares for Moderna vaccine rollout as fears grow over vi-

rus variants European Union countries could begin rolling out Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine as soon as next week after authorities approved the region’s second shot on Wednesday, with more infectious variants of the virus adding extra urgency to inoculation efforts.

Vaccinating the EU’s 450 million people could be cru-

cial to ending a pandemic that has killed almost 1.9 million people globally.

Countries are scrambling to contain two variants found in South Africa and Britain that are more transmissible and have driven a surge in infections.

“With the Moderna vaccine, the second one now authorised in the EU, we will have a further 160 million doses. And more vaccines will come,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Wednesday.

She was speaking after the EU executive gave the vaccine the final go-ahead for rollout, hours after the EU drug regulator, the European Medicines Authority (EMA), approved the shot for use on people aged over 18. (Excerpt from Reuters)

20

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES

(March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

Uncertainty will prevail regarding your relationship with someone who can influence your chance to advance.

Diplomacy and charm will work wonders. Don’t be manipulative or sly.

Put more time and effort into meaningful relationships. Whether you are dealing with a romantic partner, friend, relative or colleague, how you treat others will determine what you will get in return.

Be careful what you reveal about your personal life. Someone will be eager to use sensitive information to make you look bad. Be a good listener and ask questions.

Focus on a healthy lifestyle.

Take more time to sort through documents. An investment, contract or medical issue will require immediate attention. Someone you have helped will return the favor.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Concentrate on personal improvements and getting ahead professionally. Set up virtual interviews or meetings that will allow you to present what you have to offer. Control your emotions.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Keep an open mind; learn from an expert. Stick to a tight budget, and don’t be indulgent. A romantic situation will have ulterior motives attached.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Think matters through, then make necessary changes. Make adjustments at home that encourage you to pursue something lucrative or save money. Avoid joint ventures and imprudent spending.

SCORPIO

Someone will reveal a secret. Refuse to let your emotions take charge. Listen carefully, and use insight to help navigate your way through troubled times.

Take charge.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SUDOKU

Money matters will cause SAGITTARIUS friction with a friend. Avoid (Nov. 23getting into a joint venture Dec. 21) with someone who talks big but offers little. Gather information. Romance is featured.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

An emotional situation regarding a friend, relative or peer will leave you in a vulnerable position. Be careful how you handle your financial, health or legal matters.

Emotional spending will leave you in a vulnerable financial position.

Reconnecting with someone special will bring back a lot of memories. Devote more attention to your health and appearance.

Take control of situations quickly, before someone steps in. Use your insight to tap into what’s trending, and you will figure out a way to bring in more cash.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

21

LeBron James and Anthony Davis shine as Lakers top Western Conference L

eBron James and Anthony Davis each scored 26 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 94-92 win at the Memphis Grizzlies.

James also had 11 rebounds and seven assists for the defending champions, who won their fourth straight game.

Memphis led 7167 at the start of the fourth quarter, before the Lakers

moved ahead for good with 4:22 remaining.

The Lakers now lead the Western Conference as the Los Angeles Clippers lost 116-113 to the San Antonio Spurs.

The Lakers now have six wins and two losses, while their city rivals slipped to a five-and-two record, after Patty Mills scored 27 points off the bench to help the Spurs snap a four-game losing streak.

The Utah Jazz are now four-and-three, after the Brooklyn Nets cruised to a wire-to-wire 130-96 victory in New York. Kyrie Irving scored 29 points in three quarters as the Nets played without Kevin Durant, who will be out for at least a week due to COVID-19 protocols, after being in close contact with

Guardiola dedicates Man City's semi-final derby win to Colin Bell

someone who tested positive for the virus.

Antetokounmpo shines as Bucks beat Pistons The Chicago Bulls are level with the Nets in the Eastern Conference - both with four wins and four defeats - after a 111-108

win at the Portland Trail Blazers.

The Bulls only used nine players, with four out due to COVID-19, but Coby White led seven of the side in double figures with 21 points, before Carmelo Anthony misfired on a three-pointer to tie it

for the Trail Blazers with 2.7 seconds left.

Elsewhere, Nikola Jokic scored a season-high 35 points and grabbed 15 rebounds as the Denver Nuggets beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 123-116. (BBC Sport)

New Zealand top Test rankings after thrashing Pakistan

P

ep Guardiola has dedicated Manchester City's 2-0 EFL Cup semi-final win over Manchester United to club great Colin Bell.

Former City and England midfielder Bell died on Tuesday after a short illness. He was 74 years old.

City's players wore retro shirts bearing Bell's number eight before kick-off at Old Trafford, where a minute's silence was observed.

When the action got underway, an absorbing contest at odds with a dour 0-0 draw between the sides in the Premier League last month ensued, with City prevailing, thanks to second-half goals from John Stones and Fernandinho.

"It's for him, and of course for his family," Guardiola told Sky Sports in a post-match interview which he conducted wearing a t-shirt featuring Bell's likeness.

"This person helped to

build something special for this club that doesn't have many, many trophies in the cabinet. But that is not important.

"What is important is the legacy that players provide from the past, and some of these players in the future. That is the club we have now.

"It is an incredible victory for us to beat United away and be in another final.

"But especially today, it is for him. Absolutely!"

City might be considered to have "many, many" EFL Cups if they are able to claim a fourth in a row against Tottenham in April's final.

Guardiola praised his players for a notable upturn in form of late, after they followed up Sunday's swashbuckling 3-1 win over Chelsea in impressive fashion, despite Scott Carson and Cole Palmer taking the number of positive COVID-19 tests among

his squad to eight since Christmas Day. A staff member also tested positive.

"You are frustrated when you play bad. When the team don't run, don't help, don't celebrate every defensive action," he said, rejecting the suggestion he was unhappy after a goalless first half.

"The team is ready. That is why we came here with an outstanding performance.

"We suffered a little bit in the second half because we were tired after the game at Stamford Bridge.

They had two more days off to rest, but when a team has the mentality to do it, we achieve something incredible.

"I know the Carabao Cup is not the Champions League, but four times in a row reaching the final is incredible. I am so impressed by the quality of this team."

(Sportsmax)

N

ew Zealand rose to the top of the world Test rankings after they thrashed Pakistan by an innings and 176 runs in the second Test to win the series 2-0.

Pakistan, resuming on 8-1, were dismissed for 186 on the fourth day, with Kyle Jamieson taking 6-48.

Pace bowler Jamieson, playing in just his sixth Test, finished with 11 wickets in Christchurch and was the series' leading wicket-taker with 16.

It is the first time New Zealand have topped the Test rankings.

New Zealand have won

six consecutive Test matches and have not lost a home Test since March 2017.

Captain Kane Williamson is the world's top-ranked Test batsman while Neil Wagner and Tim Southee are third and fourth in the

bowling rankings respectively.

Jamieson, who is 6ft 8ins, made his debut against India in March and has taken 36 wickets at just 13.27, as well as four five-wicket hauls.

"I'm a long way off the cricketer that I want to be," 26-year-old Jamieson, who was named Man of the Match, said.

"Hopefully I've got another nine or 10 years in this group and if that happens I've got more to come."

New Zealand are third in the World Test Championship table, behind Australia and India. (BBC Sport)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

T20 is an exhibition, Test is an examination – Sir Clive Lloyd

– not selecting Chemar in Test squad is a mistake

I

t is no secret that more West Indies players in the modern era are opting to play more T20 cricket and less Test matches. Former legendary West Indies captain Sir Clive Lloyd has said that despite foreign players engaging in T20 cricket in other territories, they still play for their country, but it is unfortunate that West Indies players choose T20 cricket over Test matches.

"I don't think our guys seem to want to play the longer game, and that is a bit unfortunate, because if we could lose 10 players, it deflates the side. I hope the youngsters going (to Bangladesh) will have a chance to prove themselves, and the board should stick with them.

“I was a bit disappointed that (Chemar) Holder was not selected," Lloyd said on the most recent Mason and Guest radio programme.

Sir Clive is, moreover, surprised that the West Indies selected three left-arm spinners in the Test squad.

fived a y cricket.

We can't just go about and play T20 cricket. T20 cricket is an exhibition, and Test is an examination," Sir Clive has said.

Sir Clive strongly believes that the fast bowlers should be able to bowl in all different conditions, including those in the subcontinent, in order to perfect their games.

The legendary captain noted that during his days, the West Indies were at their best with four fast bowlers a n d

one

Veerasammy Permaul, Jomel Warrican and Kaveem Hodge are the left-arm spinners selected.

"It should be a good contest if we get our players to do well and play

spinner.

"The variety is not there. We need to get guys

(who) w a n t to bowl quick, and prepare pitches of that nature. Our players in the West Indies do not use their feet in the

Caribbean, so it is a challenge for our spinners when they travel (to where) people (are) using their feet. Our spinners are different bowlers," Lloyd said.

Further, he added that the West Indies need to have a settled

es.

side, a n d h a v e consistent players on consistent bas-

Gayle, Bravo, Simmons among five Windies players set for 2021 PSL draft

C

hris Gayle, Dwayne Bravo and Carlos Brathwaite are among several West Indies players who have made themselves available for the Pakistan Super League draft set for January 10, 2021 in Lahore.

Evin Lewis and Lendl Simmons were also names released on Tuesday by the PSL. They are among

25 international players who will be available for the six-team competition, even though some of them will only be available for a part of the season due to a packed international calendar during the February to March window.

Gayle played previously in the PSL for the Karachi Kings and the Lahore Qalanders.

Other notable players who are in the draft pool include Imran Tahir, Chris Jordan, Chris Lyn, Mohammed Nabi, Alex Hales and Morne Morkel.

The 25 foreign players have been placed in the ‘Platinum’ category, from which the six franchises will select. (Sportsmax)

Lloyd has declared he is disappointed that Shamarh Brooks has declined to tour, since he would have stabilised the batting.

The former West Indies

captain is calling for the West Indies to have a fearless approach in Bangladesh, and bat well in both innings of the Test matches.

(Brandon Corlette)

PFA reminds players to follow COVID-19 protocols as case rates rise

T

he PFA has urged its members to remember the “vital importance” of following coronavirus and club protocols as the United Kingdom enters a third period of national lockdown.

On Monday, the UK Government confirmed England would be placed under strict restrictions as COVID-19 infection rates and deaths continue to rise. Though vaccines are starting to be rolled out to vulnerable groups, the UK recorded 62,322 new cases and 1,041 deaths on Wednesday.

On Tuesday, the Premier League confirmed that 40 players and staff members – a new high – had tested positive for the virus over the most recent two rounds of testing, up from 18 the previous week.

Three matches in England’s top flight were postponed over the festive period, while a number of EFL games have also been unable to take place.

With elite sport allowed to continue despite the new lockdown regulations, the Premier League has insisted it has full faith in its protocols, while the EFL announced on Wednesday it would introduce a twice-weekly testing regime, starting from January 11.

However, amid the rise in cases and deaths, there have been high-profile examples of players breaking coronavirus rules over recent weeks.

Manchester City, which have been hit by an outbreak within their squad, launched an investigation into reports of Benjamin Mendy hosting, on New Year’s Eve, a party that included guests from outside his household.

T o t t e n h a m

head coach Jose Mourinho was disappointed to learn of a Christmas gathering which saw Sergio Reguilon, Erik Lamela and Giovani Lo Celso breaching regulations, with West Ham’s Manuel Lanzini also in attendance.

The PFA has released a statement which read: “Following the announcement of a third national lockdown, the PFA would like to reinforce the message that players must follow the current COVID-19 rules and club protocols as a matter of vital importance.

“In a close-knit football environment, the ramifications of any rule breaches are potentially hugely damaging for fellow players, clubs, and the game as a whole.

“It is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved that the vast majority of matches have gone ahead as scheduled, and the risks to players, staff and their families have been well managed and kept to a minimum.

“Although prospects are brighter due to the vaccine’s imminent rollout, players must continue to take the lead and act responsibly and professionally.

“Between now and the end of the season, we ask that you continue to take personal responsibility and follow the lockdown rules, without exception.

“Throughout the pandemic, we have seen that players have a unique position to inspire and influence society positively. Your compliance with the national restrictions sets the right example to millions of fans and young people. Following the rules is also the best way to protect your loved ones, your colleagues and their families from harm.”

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

Golf is a catalyst for change…

NexGen Golf Academy continues to improve standards

By Timothy Jaikarran

T

he COVID-19 pandemic has sidelined or sidetracked a large portion of Guyana's major sporting disciplines.

And even with some form of sports being played in the latter part of November 2020 and flowing into 2021, the pandemic has still taken a toll on major sporting events in the country.

However, one sport that continues to stand out from the rest is the game of golf, which has risen atop the sports pinnacle in Guyana as it has thrived during the pandemic due to the fact that it conforms with strict COVID guidelines and is one of the few sports approved by the various governmental authorities.

Many people interested in playing golf are at first nervous about how well they would perform, but after trying their hand at the sport, they are eager to have another taste of it.

Some may even go as far to say that it has become an addiction, one game that they cannot live without.

One may ask the question: where can they play a quality game of golf in Guyana? They need not look any further than the

Some of the golf action during the night NexGen Golf Academy and Guyana Golf Association.

Driving Range on Woolford It is Hussain's commitAvenue, a facility which ment that the game of golf provides all their wants and be taught to anyone in less needs. The academy pro- than fifteen minutes, and vides excellent stress re- while that may sound imlief for those who are free possible, it is certainly posduring the day, and even sible, and has been done on those who come off of work numerous occasions. in the afternoon.

When members of this It boasts a well-lit publication took a visit to course, so lighting won't be the Academy in the Scouts a factor at nights. The acad- Association compound on emy is led by none other Woolford Avenue, none of than Aleem Hussain, who us had ever lifted a golf club is also the President of the in our lives, but within 15

Confident Sir Curtly applies for ECB bowling coach job

Some of the golf action during the day

minutes, balls were being driven to the 75- and 100yard mark, and even further, as the Academy held steadfast to its motto of teaching anyone the game quickly.

Hussain has commented that while 2020 has been a productive year, the academy will continue to flourish in 2021, as it aims to introduce the sport to as many as 6,000 individuals, making it the fastest growing sport in the country!

With the Maraiko Bay Golf Resort under way, and several other golf courses planned for development, Guyana is fast becoming a golf destination and would soon be in position to take advantage of the additional revenues that Golf tourism brings to a country.

Under Hussain's leadership, the Academy has also introduced the game of golf in 8 pilot secondary schools, as students are able to write this subject, which is now on the CXC/CAPE syllabus.

This is in association with the Allied Arts Division of the Ministry of Education, a

NexGen Golf Academy President Aleem Hussain and a participant at the club

programme spearheaded by Nicholas Fraser.

The NexGen Golf Academy is expecting to improve its facilities with a putting green, sand bunkers, and short game practice area being ready by early 2021, as it continues to be the catalyst for devel-

opment of new players due to its central location in Georgetown.

For more information on trying the sport, signing up for lessons, or hosting an event at the Academy, interested persons are invited to make contact on Facebook, or call 645-0944.

Keon Harding to replace Romario Shepherd in Windies squad to tour Bangladesh

F

ormer mesmeric West Indies fast bowler Sir Curtly Ambrose has applied for a coaching role at the ECB. ESPNcricinfo understands that Ambrose, who has the lowest bowling average of any man to take 400 Test wickets (20.99), has applied for the role of elite pace-bowling coach, which has been advertised about three weeks ago. If he is successful, he would be expected to work with England's 'next in line' pace bowlers to ensure they are prepared for the rigours of international cricket. He would also, from time to time, be expected to assist with the senior squad and lead A tours.

Ambrose has previously had spells as bowling coach of West Indies - he was in the role when the team won the World T20 in 2016 - as well

as in the CPL (he was with Guyana Amazon Warriors for three years). He also spent three years as assistant coach of the Combined Campuses and Colleges in Caribbean regional cricket. He is qualified to Level 3 standard.

While Ambrose has a reputation as a man of few words, he has also emerged as an erudite media figure, and continues to enjoy a secondary career as a bass player in a band.

The elite fast bowling position is one of three coaching jobs currently advertised by the ECB. Applications for the roles, which also include an elite spin bowling coach and an elite batting coach, close at 5pm on January 10.

Jon Lewis, the former Gloucestershire and Sussex swing bowler, who has a strong relationship with

his former team-mate Jofra Archer, probably remains favourite for the elite fast bowling position, though Ambrose is a strong candidate. He might prove especially useful ahead of England's next Ashes tour.

Ambrose's record in Australia

- 78 wickets in 14 Tests at a cost of 19.79 apiece - is exceptional, and includes a famous spell of seven wickets for one run in Perth in 1992-93. During that spell, he bowled an impeccable length, refusing to be seduced by the bounce of the WACA wicket, and instead searched for the top of offstump and the batsmen's outside edges. As an example, the likes of Archer, Mark Wood and Olly Stone could hardly do better. (Adapted from ESPNcricinfo)

B

arbadian fast bowler Keon Harding has been selected to join the West Indies touring squad to Bangladesh later this month. The 24-yearold right-arm fast-medium bowler will replace Romario Shepherd, who has been withdrawn after he tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, according to sports broadcaster Andrew Mason.

Harding has played 17 first-class matches, during which he has taken 54 wickets at an average of 25.11. His best bowling performance came against Trinidad and Tobago in February 2020 when he took 10 wickets in the match with a best of 5 for 19 in TT’s second innings.

The loss of Shepherd, though, will be a major blow to the West Indies, who were already without a number of stars, includ-

Keon Harding

ing Captain Jason Holder, Shimron Hetmyer, Darren Bravo, Shamarh Brooks, Kieron Pollard, Shai Hope, Sheldon Cottrell and Nicholas Pooran, for the tour, set to take place between late January and February this year.

Shepherd scored a century and a 50 during the recent West Indies ‘A’ tour of New Zealand, and was one of the shining lights in an otherwise disastrous tour.

He also took two wickets in the unofficial two-Test series. (Sportsmax)

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

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

Keon Harding to replace T20 is an exhibition, Test is an Romario Shepherd in examination – Sir Clive Lloyd Pg 23

Pg 22

Windies squad to Bangladesh – not selecting Chemar in Test squad is a mistake Golf is a catalyst for change…

Pg 23

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